Following on from the immense success of the Sentido range, Basalte announce a new room controller to match. The product features a full menu driven oled display and is essentially capable of controlling any function in a room via the touch sensitive surfaces. In common with all Basalte products the finish is without equal.
After stumbling across a discussion thread on AV Forum that discussed the merits of various lighting/smart home control solutions, in response to a question on who’s the best in terms of cost a technical features/benefits, I thought I should look into this a little deeper.
OK, at Ivory Egg we could be viewed as a little KNX or DALI biased, so I promise to be as objective as possible and open to feedback here. At the end of the day we are independent, simply want to deliver the best solutions to our clients and I would hope this article, at the very least, will stimulate some form of debate. You can view the complete thread at AV Forums.
So, in terms of the players (at least who I perceive to be the market ‘leaders’ in this field), and again you may disagree with my selection, I have decided to look at the following solutions. This selection is based purely on the names I come across on a weekly basis:
Not everybody active in this field, but a good starting point? Unfortunatley though, we have a bit of a problem when trying to compare these so-called competitors, as basically what we’re dealing with is a mix of different standards, manufactures and solutions that are all competing against each other. I would love to be in position to just compare like for like and publish the pros and cons of each, answer the questions in places such as AV Forum, but that would not provide a true representation of each solution (I hope I’m not stating the obvious here)…
For example, it makes sense on some projects to have a mix of KNX and DALI. As DALI is an open protocol for lighting control mainly in commercial buildings, while the growth area in KNX is for residential and LED. Take Heathrow Terminal 5, which has a KNX backbone with switches/PIRs etc and a gateway to DALI for the lighting. KNX can’t compete with DALI, as the DALI is fitted to the ballasts that control the lighting and sit in the actual light fitting. They are complimentary systems and we approach it from that point of view as we sell KNX/EIB DALI gateways at Ivory Egg.
In terms of KNX vs. some of the other systems, well Lutron is bar far the market leader in terms of pure lighting control. Rako on the other hand sell purely wireless lighting controls and they are great for DIY/retro-fit. As for INSTEON, which is again a wireless control technology, they currently have no European devices so it doesn’t really complete with KNX and is more of a competitor to the likes of Z-wave and EnOcean (which is another blog altogether). And finally we have Crestron, who supply more AV & generic device control solutions.
It is worth pointing out that Crestron do provide a complete AV, lighting and control solution. It does it by controlling different devices from multiple manufactures and a wide range of different protocols via a central controller. From a consumer point of view Crestron is “Interface Centric” via tablet and in wall touch screens. This hides the complexity of using Lutron for lighting, X manufacturer for heating and Z for multi room audio. It is an expensive route to take, but on the positive side it is highly configurable.
KNX is standard based and developed from a consumer point of view. It is switch centric, in other words it is a compact and stylish intelligent switch on the wall that can easily control the ‘functions’ in a room (HVAC, lighting, blinds etc). KNX has 1,000s of products that are certified to work together, but this is not the case with Creston. That said most consumers wouldn’t know the difference, as most simply go on look and feel, and that is where market leaders such as Basalte and Gira score highly. Their products are innovative, look fantastic on the wall and at Ivory Egg we can supply a whole host of fittings for 13amp sockets that will coordinate with the wall switches. And to be fair, this is what the architects are demanding!
So difficult to draw conclusions really. I guess the big question I’ve not really answered is what are they main differences between Lutron and KNX? As Lutron is a central processor based with proprietary technology and KNX is a component/manufacturer open standard, does that mean the KNX open standard is the lowest common denominator (as claimed by Lutron) or does that mean you get vastly increased flexibility (as claimed by KNX)? Is Lutron only lighting control – on/off/dim or is it full integration. If KNX gives you full integration, then why would you even consider Lutron? All very valid questions…
Yes, KNX provides a holistic approach to efficient energy usage. It is not limited to lighting or heating or metering or appliances or AV or any other specific function for that matter. The KNX platform has been adopted by many highly respected major manufacturers with their vast choice of products covering all these product lines. In the longer term, this is also important to building owners, as any installation is future proofed for any changes/upgrades that could be needed. As KNX covers such a diversity of applications using one standard, it means cabling networks can be much more simplistic and single twisted pair cabling can often suffice, with multiple elements all operating together on a single network. As I’ve already mentioned briefly with DALI, a number of the KNX manufacturers have also developed ‘gateways’ to other control protocols. These simple devices are used to expand the capability of KNX control systems to provide the complete solution for a building.
KNX has also worked closely with management-level protocols such as BACnet to enable a close co-operation between these two standards when the project requires additional integration. Every KNX-compliant piece of equipment is fully tested and certified to this highly stringent standard by an independent regulatory body – It is only at this point that it can carry the KNX logo, as controlled by the international KNX Association of Brussels. Therefore there is total confidence in reliability and interoperability, whatever KNX devices are chosen. In the UK we have a growing network of integrators who have joined KNX UK to share their experiences and to help promote the standard. They can also assist consultants as well as building owners in achieving the optimum solution for their building and with KNX also accepted throughout the world (and with partnership agreements with more than 30.000 partners in more than 75 countries worldwide) from China to the United States as well as Australia and the Middle East, it truly is a worldwide standard.
Lutron on the other hand is recognised as the leading brand in terms of pure lighting control, and rightly so… It has many advantages and is easy to install, retrofitable and extremely reliable. Their systems are a proven, extensively implemented technology that offers 2-way communication, is scene capable and can dim any type of dimmable lighting. All this is backed by an industry leading company with a very long history and their systems are available in a large number of styles and finishes, all backed with a 7 year warrantee. Plus they too can integrate window/shade controls and offer relatively easy intregration with Crestron and other control systems. However, while I find it hard to criticize KNX (and again, I can hold my hands up and say yes we’re a little biased), to me there are some obvious disadvantages to Lutron. For one it only controls up to 32 lights (expandable to 64). Then there is the fact it has no dedicated processor, so it relies on an automation processor. In other words if this processor fails, then I’m afraid you have to manually override or you have no lights at all. However, the ‘biggie’ (in my experience anyway) is that expansion always seems more complicated than it needs to be and is certainly more expensive than with KNX products.
The choice of lighting control is a wide one one I’m afraid, the above is only our humble opinion. To be honest, what you really need to do is decide what functionality you want and then see what systems can support your needs. Its important you select an installer that can advise you on the systems that you’re interested in. Price is always important, but do not make it the main point, and you need to always be thinking about upgrades/adding to the system in the future. Also think about who can you get to do changes and tweaks to the lighting control system (these things are never right first time and commercial clients and their staff especially can be very demanding)?Does the control system intergrate with other manurfacturers you may be using and don’t be afraid to ask for them to show you existing installations they’ve completed that are using the products you’re interested in. KNX is certainly the logical choice to me in terms of flexibility and meeting demand, especially if you need to integrate other systems such as heating, blinds, AV etc, but always keep an open mind and one eye on what each of these systems can deliver.
Their fully bi-directional script allows easy control of each individual zones or dynamic group control with up to five user programmable group scenarios. Each zone has individual sound control (Bass/Treble, Loudness On/Off, Start/Max. Volume and Balance) which is stored within the Adagio® system and remains stored even after a loss of power. Furthermore, iPhone/iPod touch integration is also already built in and works with the free Crestron App available in the Apple App-Store.
There’s no need to program the Crestron system in any way since a pre-programmed macro is installed on the Crestron Adagio® system and ALL of the programming can be done in real-time on any Pronto. Estimated set-up time for a standard 6-zone system is less than 1 hour, which is quite remarkable! A 36 zone system can be programmed within 2-3 hours! That’s why they call it Easy and Fast then! All of their communication is solely via Ethernet and allows multiple users to access the Adagio® system simultaneously, with full bi-directional feed-back on ALL devices (even the iPhone/iPod touch!).
Full KNX/EIB integration is also included (although additional hardware is needed)… All you need is the empure KNiX-Port or iKNiX-Port and you can control each zone bi-directionally with any KNX/EIB switch. Supported controls are: Zone On/Off, Volume Up/Down, Source Selection. If the KNX/EIB switch has a display, real-time messages can also be displayed.
About Crestron Adagio®
Adagio® is a simple to use, easy to install and affordable home entertainment system. Imagine the entire family’s media – CDs, MP3s, satellite radio, DVDs – all brought together in a single system. Adagio is a stand-alone Crestron solution that can be set up in just minutes. Simply take Adagio out of the box, plug it in, and turn your living room into a state-of-the-art home theater-or listen to music throughout the house. Adagio is priced to fit every budget and can easily grow with any family. Need more rooms? Easy. Adagio automatically adds the new rooms for you. Remember when listening to music and watching TV was simple? It can be with Adagio. To find out more, please visit Crestron.com.
Gira has recently expanded their range of glass Esprit frames with an additional design known as glass C. The soft edges and rounded corners of glass C offer a new alternative in the otherwise clearly-cut and linear switch range. The edges of the 6 mm thick glass frame are ground to a semi-circular form with the so-called ‘C grinding process’.
Gira has also added a black glass to the frame variants that corresponds perfectly with the architectural, linear design of the switch and lends Gira Esprit its particularly elegant character. The high-gloss surface of black glass has a distinctive depth and achieves an optical perfection that cannot be achieved with any other material or any other colour. The glossy black surface gives Gira Esprit an expressive presence that nevertheless blends unobtrusively into the surroundings. The range is especially well-suited for use within architecture with a high aesthetic claim, for example with open masonry, exposed concrete and glass. But also in combination with natural materials such as wood and natural stone or on brighter surfaces the black switches of Gira can create an exciting accent.
The switch inserts and covers are in aluminium, which further emphasise the impression of modern functionalism, harmonizing perfectly with the cover frame of black glass. Inserts and covers are also available in anthracite as well as matt pure white and glossy pure white. More than 230 functions from System 55 can be combined with the Gira Esprit cover frame, including Gira’s door communication system.
(in mm)
Frame Height Width Depth
1-gang 95 95 9.85
2-gang 166 95 9.85
3-gang 236.8 95 9.85
4-gang 308 95 9.85
Gira places great value on product design. Through intensive cooperation with external and in-house design teams, Gira develop products, which are repeatedly recognized for their exceptional and simple design.
The modern electrical installation from Gira offers a broad range of intelligent building technology for convenience and security. Devices for networking home technology, music control for all rooms and comprehensive switch ranges, plus numerous functions for door communication, energy and light outdoors – and it all fits together. All functions and devices can be easily combined, and the uniform design lines always offer the right cover frame for every purpose.
The GiraShop.co.uk supplies the complete range of products that are currently available in the English language catalogue.
Not a product we currently sell, but a very interesting one all the same, so I thought we needed a quick ‘blog’ on this one… The leading Belgian lighting and home automation manufacturer, Niko (which I beleive celebrates its 90th anniversary this year) has just received the ‘Exceptional and innovative design’ from ‘red dot’. Easily the world’s biggest and most distinguished design competition, the Red Dot Design award is only granted to exceptionally creative, innovative and high-quality products.
Niko has been developing switching ranges for decades. With a hard-earned reputation for innovation, the company has continued in this tradition with the introduction of a revolutionary new concept in switches – the truly invisible switch. The imaginatively named ‘Mysterious’ range from Niko goes beyond traditional switches and socket outlets. With Mysterious, Niko takes the first step towards imagining life without any of the ‘traditional’ switching material.
Mysterious is a range of switches and sockets with an elegant and simple design that can be seamlessly integrated into any wall. When fitted, the switch can then be papered over painted like the wall so that only an incredibly discreet round edge remains visible. In the dark this outer edge lights up with the warm white glow of an LED that is incorporated into the switch. Mysterious simply adapts itself to the colour of the wall, just like a chameleon.
The switch is multi-functional, with its programme comprising push-buttons with one to four key points, sockets for data/TV connection boxes, and orientation lighting. The design is inspired to allow functionality into carefully designed interiors without detracting from the look of the room. Its an Architects/Interior Designer dream… No more ugly switches ruining their clean design aesthetic.
With more than 11,000 submissions from 61 countries, the international red dot design award is the largest and most renowned design competition in the world. It is divided into the red dot award: product design, the red dot award: communication design and the red dot award: design concept. Niko’s Mysterious was awarded the prestigious red dot award: product design.
Each year an international jury reviews and evaluates the submitted products according to criteria such as degree of innovation, functionality and the formal quality. This ensures the seriousness of the competition and its international acceptance. The group of jurors is made up of renowned designers and design experts from all over the world who reach their decisions on which designs are good enough to receive a red dot award independently and impartially. The constellation changes from year to year and guarantees a high degree of objectivity and reliability.
The award is as a seal of quality; it stands for membership of the best in design and business. After 90 years, its good to see that Niko continues to play at the top of its game and to lead the field.
For more information about Niko’s award-winning Mysterious range – and the rest of its impressive line-up of home automation and lighting solutions, visit: nikouk.com or telephone Niko UK direct 01525 877707
For more information about the red dot awards, please visit red-dot.de.
Now included in the family of Gira flush-mounted actuators are switching actuators, a universal dimming actuator and in terms of ‘recently launched’ products; a window actuator, a blind actuator and a heating actuator.
Flush-mounted actuators are used with decentral KNX/EIB installations or in KNX/EIB compound installations (DRA, flush-mounted). They are allotted space in flush-mounted boxes or in cable conduits and utilise the existing power cables. In this way cable material is saved and fire load in buildings is significantly reduced.
Existing installations can be expanded more simply to KNX/EIB with flush-mounted actuators – in addition to the existing 230 V supply – only a bus line is required for operation of the actuators.
Zero-voltage contacts can be connected to the binary inputs and they can carry out various functions independently of one another or as a ‘block’. The functions of the binary inputs are identical for all actuators, other attributes however are configured at the factory in order to make the operation possible without the need for programming.
The flush-mounted actuator is connected to the 230 V supply via a flexible cable, approx. 20 cm in length. The connection of the binary inputs and the KNX/EIB is made via a 6-wire connection cable, approx. 30 cm in length. This can be extended to a maximum of 5 m.
Two auxiliary unit inputs (or three inputs with window actuators, blind actuators and heating actuators) are for on-site operation via conventional switches or buttons, or can be freely used as binary inputs for zero-voltage contacts (with applied bus voltage).
The window actuator combines a blind actuator with a heating actuator. It has three binary inputs with which in delivery state the connected blind or shutter can be controlled.
Functions of inputs
Functions of switching inputs: two independent switching objects for each input present and can be enabled individually, command for rising or falling edge can be set independently (ON, OFF, CHANGE, no reaction).
Dimming: Single and double-surface operation, time between dimming and switching and dim-step size can be set, telegram repetition and stop-telegram transmission possible blind: Command can be set with rising edge (no function, UP, DOWN, CHANGE), operating concept can be configured (Step – Move – Step or Move – Step), time between step and moving mode can be set, slat adjustment time can be set.
Value transmitter and light scene auxiliary unit: Edge (push button as NO contact, push button as NC contact, switch) and value with edge can be configured, value adjustment with push button by pressing and holding button for value transmitters possible, light scene auxiliary unit with memory function and saving of the scene without previously calling up is possible.
Blind output
Heating output
Technical data
Installation
The actuators are installed flush-mounted in a wall box (electronics box from Kaiser recommended). Sufficient insulation must be provided between the 230 V cable and the bus or auxiliary units. The minimal distance between bus/auxiliary unit wires and 230 V wires is 4 mm.
The heating actuator is used for switching electrothermic valve drives for heating systems. It has two binary inputs to which zero-voltage contacts can be connected for monitoring of a window contact for example.
Functions of inputs
Functions of switching inputs: two independent switching objects for each input present and can be enabled individually, command for rising or falling edge can be set independently (ON, OFF, CHANGE, no reaction).
Dimming: Single and double-surface operation, time between dimming and switching and dim-step size can be set, telegram repetition and stop-telegram transmission possible blind: Command can be set with rising edge (no function, UP, DOWN, CHANGE), operating concept can be configured (Step – Move – Step or Move – Step), time between step and moving mode can be set, slat adjustment time can be set.
Value transmitter and light scene auxiliary unit: Edge (push button as NO contact, push button as NC contact, switch) and value with edge can be configured, value adjustment with push button by pressing and holding button for value transmitters possible, light scene auxiliary unit with memory function and saving of the scene without previously calling up is possible.
Heating output
Technical data
Installation
The actuators are installed flush-mounted in a wall box (electronics box from Kaiser recommended). Sufficient insulation must be provided between the 230 V cable and the bus or auxiliary units. The minimal distance between bus/auxiliary unit wires and 230 V wires is 4 mm.
The blind actuator controls blinds, shutters and awnings and has two inputs factory-assigned to the blind actuator.
Functions of inputs
Functions of switching inputs: two independent switching objects for each input present and can be enabled individually, command for rising or falling edge can be set independently (ON, OFF, CHANGE, no reaction).
Dimming: Single and double-surface operation, time between dimming and switching and dim-step size can be set, telegram repetition and stop-telegram transmission possible blind: Command can be set with rising edge (no function, UP, DOWN, CHANGE), operating concept can be configured (Step – Move – Step or Move – Step), time between step and moving mode can be set, slat adjustment time can be set.
Value transmitter and light scene auxiliary unit: Edge (push button as NO contact, push button as NC contact, switch) and value with edge can be configured, value adjustment with push button by pressing and holding button for value transmitters possible, light scene auxiliary unit with memory function and saving of the scene without previously calling up is possible.
Output functions
Technical data
Installation
The actuators are installed flush-mounted in a wall box (electronics box from Kaiser recommended). Sufficient insulation must be provided between the 230 V cable and the bus or auxiliary units. The minimal distance between bus/auxiliary unit wires and 230 V wires is 4 mm.
Gira places great value on product design. Through intensive cooperation with external and in-house design teams, Gira develop products, which are repeatedly recognized for their exceptional and simple design.
The modern electrical installation from Gira offers a broad range of intelligent building technology for convenience and security. Devices for networking home technology, music control for all rooms and comprehensive switch ranges, plus numerous functions for door communication, energy and light outdoors – and it all fits together. All functions and devices can be easily combined, and the uniform design lines always offer the right cover frame for every purpose.
The GiraShop.co.uk supplies the complete range of products that are currently available in the English language catalogue.
IntesisBox® is a small and robust device that functions as an intelligent gateway and is capable of intercommunication with KNX, BACnet, Modbus, LON, DMX, M-Bus and many other proprietary systems (BMS, HVAC, Lighting, Fire, Intrusion, Energy Management etc). Microcontrolled and easy to install via DIN rail mounting, it features RS232, RS485, Ethernet and Konnex TP1 (EIB) interfaces that are dessigned specifically to offer a range of integrations in a robust and small device with null maintenance.
With this autonomous device it is possible to interconnect directly the internal system (building automation, industrial automation, BACnet, ModBus, Konnex…) to the external system (fire system, access control system, security system, HVAC, cold/warm generation, energy generation & measurement, lighting, hotel management, home automation…). A console RS232 port is also available to connect a laptop PC for programming and monitoring the device. IntesisBox® also offers the possibility to be connected to Ethernet/LAN/WAN networks expanding thus its possibilities with connection to ethernet/IP based protocol systems, remote monitoring, networks interconnection, web server, internet/e-mail alarm sending, SNMP…
Inside its internal structure, the IntesisBox® incorporates a high performance and reliability microcontroller with flash (non volatile) memory where the operating system and integration code (firmware) are saved. This internal structure, along with a watchdog system, ensures a suitable operation of the device every time, even when faced with power irregularities such as micro-cuts or longer power failures. It has no mechanical mobile components (fans, hard discs…), therefore reducing potential malfunctions and maintenance to almost zero, making this ideal device for industrial environments. It allows (depending on the model) the generation and register of datalogs associated to internal variables, useful for example to register historical data for temperature, relative humidity, etc. Thanks to an internal interchangeable lithium battery (with approx. 10 years life time), the internal historical data is stored in case of power failure. The firmware can be also updated via the console port.
IntesisBox® allows DIN rail mounting for easy installation inside an industrial cabinet and allows a wide range of input supply voltage, from 9 to 30VDC and also 24VAC, with a low power consumption of 1.4 watts. The operating temperature range is from -40°C to +70°C and the relative humidity from 5% to 95% (non condensing). It is not necessary to have any external RS232/RS485 converter, because IntesisBox® has RS485 port and can be directly connected to a RS485 bus. IntesisBox® can be also equipped with a Konnex TP1 (KNX/EIB) optocoupled port allowing to be directly connected to any KNX/EIB bus. All available IntesisBox® hardware versions are compliant with RoHS directive (2002/95/CE).
Along with the device, it also comes supplied (free of charge) with the LinkBox software, the software tool that’s needed for configuring and monitoring the IntesisBox®. LinkBox software runs on MS Windows® operating systems and uses a serial port to communicate to the IntesisBox®. It is possible to use LinkBox Software off-line (not connected to IntesisBox®) to configure the IntesisBox® more comfortably in the office and later download the configuration to the device using the serial connection in the field. Also supplied (again, free of charge) is a console cable that’s needed in order to configure the device. This is a standard DB9 male to DB9 female cable. Intesis can also supplied (on demand) an external plug-in power supply (european plug) 230VAC/12VDC 300mA to power the IntesisBox® if required.
The IntesisBox® is available to order now from KNXshop.co.uk in the Communication > Gateways/Convertors section.
Intesis Software design and develop interfacing solutions for building automation systems under its own brand and OEM. Since their formation in 2000, the products have been available in more than 10 countries and 3 continents. Their success is due to the reliability and performance of the products and the quality of service provided. To find out more about Intesis and their products, please vist Intesis.com.
The innovative Ratio®-room temperature sensor RTF103 by Omnio is an effective battery and maintenance free radio bus system for building automation.
Conventional electrical installations for lighting, shading, heating and security have reached their limits… As soon as the requirements exceed basic installation principles, installations using conventional technology become complex and expensive. The battery-free radio bus system Ratio® with EnOcean technology facilitates electrical installations, allows for a number of useful functions, increases comfort and security. It is environment-friendly and extremely economical.
The power generation is effected by transmission of roomlight into electrical energy from a solargenerator. It conduces to the measuring of the rooms temperature and the transmission by radio to the radio senders and actuators/gateways. By its very flat construction it can be installed on walls and even on glass. Short roomlight for the power generation means the temperature sensor can also be run with a battery.
The Ratio® switch actuators/receivers are activated by radio signals from the Ratio® radio senders. Each sender can actuate an indefinite number of actuators/receivers. The Ratio® radio senders have a fixed address and are programmed into Ratio® receivers (actuators). The Ratio® switch actuators activate various functions such as light bulbs, blinds, gates, doors, control valves etc.
The battery-free Ratio® temperature radio sensor is mounted on a wall and regulates temperature and air conditioning. It is used in combination with the receiver UPT and REGH or different gateways to connect to superordinate regulating systems. At each value change or in a 15 minutes interval, a radio signal (EnOcean standard) is sent that is received and analyzed by all Ratio® radio bus receivers. The Ratio® room temperature radio sensor is mounted to glass using adhesive or on walls, etc. using adhesive or screws.
With the Ratio® room temperature radio sensor, the following signals are sent:
The receiving unit analyzes the transmitted radio telegram.
Electric Security
The Omnio RATIO Room Temperature Sensor is available now from EnOceanshop.co.uk.
To find out more about Omnio and their products, please visit Omnio.ch
Innovative touch display with Ambient Thermostat, IR Receiver and Binary Inputs.
Available in a Polar white, Silver or Anthracite Gray finish, its 3,8″ display in square format makes your management and enjoyment easier, getting a uniform communication environment in the intelligent home.
3 Way Design
Feel it
InZennio Z38 All in One
From today you can find the Zennio product database in VD file format. The PR files have been removed and replaced by a registered database.
The Z38 touch screen has been updated to the last version 4.2 and the Z38 manual is now on their Web page.
Please note the above cover shows the latest version of the manual. Zennio will carry on with the updating process and if the manual features a new image, then you know its been updated again.
If you need an application program that is not on their website (Fan Coil for example), please contact Zennio direct. Any further quesitons, please contact Jesús Arias García at Zennio – Tel: +34 925232002, Email: jesus@zennio.com and Web: www.zennio.com.
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