KNX is a worldwide standard for building automation and control. The KNX Association is a non-profit organization whose members are manufacturers who develop devices for several applications (lighting, shutter and HVAC control, energy management, metering, monitoring, alarm systems, audio/video and much more), as well as service providers.

KNX’s open protocol allows for a wide range of products from different manufacturers to communicate and work with each other, ensuring flexibility and scalability. It offers a comprehensive and future-proof solution for controlling and integrating various systems in any building. Homeowners can enjoy enhanced comfort, energy efficiency and convenience through centralized control of all connected devices. 

The benefits of KNX system

1. Reliability and security

The KNX standard is known for its stable communication between all smart devices and improved security, as it ensures unparalleled privacy protection for home owners. It offers homeowners a reliable and secure smart home experience, thanks to high-quality products. 

2. Futureproof projects

A KNX system enables seamless integration of various devices from various manufacturers, ensuring compatibility and future expansion. Thanks to open protocol, homeowners enjoy the freedom to select and combine the best products, creating a highly personalized and flexible smart home ecosystem.

3. Certified support

KNX has established itself as a global standard, ensuring that homeowners can rely on a wide network of certified experts. Every KNX installer is trained and has experience with the process of implementing solutions, and continues with mandatory training on new achievements in home automation.

The magic of KNX system 

KNX (bus) device

A device that is connected to a bus and can communicate with other devices is called a bus device.

The KNX (bus) device consists of a microcontroller, a bus transceiver and an application module. KNX devices can be divided into two groups: passive and active devices.

Passive devices do not have ICT built in, they have ‘only’ a supporting or indirect role; i.e. they do not communicate with other devices, but are absolutely necessary to set up the bus system properly. Examples of passive devices are power supplies.

The other group, i. e. the active devices can be divided into the following device categories:

interfaces – connect a PC with a bus system,

couplers – optimize the communication efficiency of bus systems,

sensors – contribute information to bus systems and

actuators – link (conventional) electrical consumers with bus systems.

BUS system

A bus system is, in the simplest terms, a set of bus devices. The entire functionality of the installation is divided over the individual bus devices, or in other words: each individual bus device is
‘only’ informed about its own specific role within the installation.

This concept makes the flexibility aspect of KNX installations complete: changing, adding or removing devices has only a
minor influence on the composite installation functionality.

There are three key principles of this system:

1.  to replace all conventional pushbutton switches, or connect conventional pushbuttons/switches to interfaces so they can communicate,
2.  to add an interface to all electrical consumers so that they can communicate, or manage electrical consumers indirectly by switching devices that can communicate and
3.  to link all devices being able to communicate via a dedicated extra low voltage cable called Bus Cable or simply the Bus.

Rely on an KNX professional for a clean and secure installation

The involvement of automation experts in the installation of the KNX system is crucial for following reasons:

Expertise

Automation professionals possess specialized knowledge and training, ensuring the correct setup of KNX components, preventing errors, and maximizing system efficiency and security.

Customization

Professionals can tailor the system to the homeowner’s specific needs, optimizing its functionality and ensuring all desired features are integrated and easily available.

Troubleshooting 

In case of issues or upgrades, automation experts can diagnose and resolve problems swiftly, minimizing downtime and ensuring the continued reliability of the system.