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Gira shines at Mermaid Cottage

February 2nd, 2010

Project Summary

More convenience, more economy, more security… Intelligent building technology from Gira has made Mermaid Cottage, a stunning period property, both beautiful and smart. Centrally controlled house technology, time-dependent temperature control, automatic light control, keyless access and much more – everything is designed uniformly in this stunning South coast home.

Project Description

The smart building technology installed at Mermaid Cottage can be divided into three parts. For conventional installation the cottage features a selection of Gira products for electricity, light, door communication, communication technology and more. In addition to this two intelligent systems are installed that enable a high degree of comfort, security, flexibility and economy: the Gira Instabus KNX/EIB system and the Gira radio bus system:

1. Conventional installation

Mermaid cottage features socket outlets, dimmers, push switches, room temperature controllers, LED illumination, antenna connections, motion detectors, door intercom systems and more by Gira.

2. Gira Instabus KNX/EIB system

Intelligent building technology is realised within Mermaid Cottage via Gira’s flexible KNX bus technology system. Devices communicate with each other and exchange information within the system. For this an Instabus control line is installed parallel to the power line. Possibilities: requirement-specific use of lighting and heating, central control of light, blinds, ventilation and household devices, programming of specific lighting scenes, multimedia or music entertainment in all rooms, automatic watering of the garden, presence simulations and more.

3. Gira radio bus system

Mermaid cottage benefitted from simply retrofitting the intelligence, installation without the usual dirt and noise. A wide spectrum of control options have been realised such as light scenes, blind and heating control and automatic lighting, without walls having to be chopped. Communication occurs via transmitters and receivers.

Customer Comment

With Mermaid Cottage the Architect and the Client both wanted coordination, performance and that all important aesthetic appeal. Gira was selected from the start, it delivered on every level.

Top features

User Interface

Mermaid Cottage can be fully controlled via the Gira HomeServer 3, which features a uniformly structured interface design, whether a Gira/Pro-face Server Client 15, a laptop or the owners iPhone is used. Simple operation of the complex house technology – the concept of the new Gira interface focused mainly upon a high level of user friendliness, fast orientation and and a visually appealing information design. A clear and intuitive menu ensures quick access to all smart aspects of the home.

Kitchen

Intelligent functions:

  • Blind controllers for time-dependent blind control
  • Room temperature controller for heating control
  • Push button sensor for controlling, switching and dimming
  • Touchdimmer for the right lighting mood
  • Control unit M217/M218 for operating the Revox multiroom system
  • Flush-mounted radio installed into the wall
  • Info Display as a compact display and switching station for the house technology
  • Server Client 15 controls the Instabus KNX/EIB system
  • Time clock easy to start devices at the desired times
  • Radio weather station shows all weather information

Safety:

  • Smoke detector basic/VdS warns in the case of smoke formation

Socket outlets:

  • Socket outlets with child protection that protects against electrical shocks
  • Socket outlets with rotated insert for devices with angled plugs
  • Socket outlets with hinged cover above work surfaces – protects against splashes and dirt

Living Room

Intelligent functions:

  • Blind controller for time-dependent blind control
  • Room temperature controller for heating control
  • Push button sensor for controlling, switching and dimming
  • Touchdimmer for the right lighting mood
  • Control unit M217/M218 for operating the Revox multiroom system
  • TV gateway – see who is at the door via TV
  • Info Display as a compact display and switching station for the house technology
  • InfoTerminal Touch – the central switching unit for house technology
  • Time clock easy to start devices at the desired times
  • Radio weather station shows all weather information

Data connections:

  • Antenna socket outlet – excellent reception for TV and radio
  • Telephone socket outlet TAE for the right connection
  • Stereo loudspeaker connection box Music enjoyment without tangled wires
  • High-end loudspeaker plug connector for optimal sound quality
  • Universal/ISDN connection box UAE/IAE for networking of telephone and PC

Safety:

  • Smoke detector basic/VdS warns in the case of smoke formation

Socket outlets:

  • Socket outlets with child protection protects against electrical shocks
  • Socket outlets with rotated insert for devices with angled plugs
  • Socket outlets with overvoltage protection avoids damage caused by excessive voltages

Bedrooms

Intelligent functions:

  • Blind controller for time-dependent blind control
  • Room temperature controller for heating control
  • Push button sensor for controlling, switching and dimming
  • Control unit M217/M218 for operating the Revox multiroom system
  • Flush-mounted radio for installation in the wall
  • Info Display as a compact display and switching station for the house technology
  • InfoTerminal Touch – the central switching unit for house technology
  • Time clock easy to start devices at the desired times
  • Radio weather station shows all weather information

Data connections:

  • Universal/ISDN connection box UAE/IAE for networking of telephone and PC
  • Antenna socket outlet – excellent reception for TV and radio
  • Telephone socket outlet TAE for the right connection

Safety:

  • Smoke detector basic/VdS warns in the case of smoke formation
  • Panic switch – full lighting at the press of a button

Socket outlets:

  • Socket outlets with child protection protects against electrical shocks
  • Socket outlets with rotated insert for devices with angled plugs
  • Socket outlet with LED orientation light for orientation in the dark
  • Socket outlet with overvoltage protection avoids damage caused by excessive voltages

Entrance Hall

Intelligent functions:

  • Info Display as a compact display and switching station for the house technology
  • InfoTerminal Touch – the central switching unit for house technology
  • Push button sensor for controlling, switching and dimming
  • Push switch with LED insert for better orientation
  • Central circuit breaker – switch off everything at the press of a button
  • Automatic control switch – there’s always light when it’s needed

Safety:

  • Smoke detector basic/VdS warns in the case of smoke formation
  • Radio door module Dialog for activating the radio alarm system

Socket outlets:

  • Socket outlets with child protection protects against electrical shocks
  • Socket outlets with LED orientation light for orientation in the dark

Door communication:

  • Home station – informs you who is at the front door

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Gira’s instabus KNX flush-mounted actuators

February 1st, 2010

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).

Window actuator

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.

  • Blocker for blocking individual inputs
  • Behaviour when the bus voltage returns can be configured separately for each input
  • Telegram rate limiting

Blind output

  • Behaviour after bus voltage failure and return can be set
  • Separately parameterisable movement times with movement time extension for movements into the upper end position
  • Feedback of the curtain position or slat position – Active or passive (object can be read out) cyclical feedback functions
  • Feedback can be delayed until after the return of bus voltage
  • Assignments to up to 5 different safety functions (3 wind alarms, 1 rain alarm, 1 frost alarm), or with cyclical monitoring
  • Forced setting function can be realised for each blind output
  • Solar protection function with fixed and variable curtain or slat positions can be activated
  • Inclusion in scenes possible, maximum of 8 internal scenes can be parameterised per channel
  • Memory function for light scenes

Heating output

  • Output controllable with a corrected variable (1 bit or 1 byte)
  • Status feedback (1bit or 1byte) automatically or on read request
  • Valve control (open/closed while deenergised) can be configured
  • Summer or winter operation can be selected via an object
  • Cyclical monitoring of the corrected variable; if a corrected variable telegram remains off within a monitoring period, the output switches into emergency mode and an alarm message is sent
  • The output can be locked in a forced position, and different values are possible for summer and winter operation
  • Behaviour when the bus voltage returns and fails can be configured separately for each output
  • Overload or short-circuit message via an object can be set
  • Control of valve drives with switching operation or PWM operation
  • Protective function for locked valve

Technical data

  • Rated voltage: AC 230 V/50 Hz
  • Connected load of blind output: switching current AC1: 3 A, motors: 600 VA
  • Connected load of heating output: contact type: Triac, switching current 5 to 25 mA, drives per output: max. 2
  • Number of inputs: 3
  • Protection type: IP 20
  • Temperature range: – 5 °C to + 45 °C
  • Dimensions: 51 × 48 × 28 mm (L × B × H)
  • Load line connection: with enclosed spring plug-in terminal
  • Installation: flush-mounted wall box (Gira recommend the electronics box from Kaiser)

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.

Heating actuator

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.

  • Blocker for blocking individual inputs
  • Behaviour when the bus voltage returns can be configured separately for each input
  • Telegram rate limiting

Heating output

  • Output controllable with a corrected variable (1 bit or 1 byte)
  • Status feedback (1bit or 1byte) automatically or on read request
  • Valve control (open/closed while deenergised) can be configured
  • Summer or winter operation can be selected via an object
  • Cyclical monitoring of the corrected variable; if a corrected variable telegram remains off within a monitoring period, the output switches into emergency mode and an alarm message is sent
  • The output can be locked in a forced position, and different values are possible for summer and winter operation
  • Behaviour when the bus voltage returns and fails can be configured separately for each output
  • Overload or short-circuit message via an object can be set
  • Control of valve drives with switching operation or PWM operation
  • Protective function for locked valve

Technical data

  • Rated voltage: AC 230 V/50/60 Hz
  • Connected load of heating output: contact type: Triac, switching current 5 to 25 mA, drives per output: max. 2
  • Number of inputs: 3
  • Protection type: IP 20
  • Temperature range: – 5 °C to + 45 °C
  • Dimensions: 51 × 48 × 28 mm (L × B × H)

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.

Blind actuator

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.

  • Blocker for blocking individual inputs
  • Behaviour when the bus voltage returns can be configured separately for each input
  • Telegram rate limiting

Output functions

  • Behaviour after bus voltage failure and return can be set
  • Separately parameterisable movement times with movement time extension for movements into the upper end position
  • Feedback of the curtain position or slat position, active or passive (object can be read out) cyclical feedback functions
  • Feedback can be delayed until after the return of bus voltage
  • Assignments to up to 5 different safety functions (3 wind alarms, 1 rain alarm, 1 frost alarm), or with cyclical monitoring
  • Forced setting function
  • Solar protection function with fixed and variable curtain or slat positions can be activated
  • Inclusion in scenes possible, maximum of 8 internal scenes can be parameterised per channel
  • Memory function for light scenes

Technical data

  • Rated voltage: AC 230 V/50/60 Hz
  • Connected load: motors 600 VA
  • Number of inputs: 2
  • Protection type: IP 20
  • Temperature range: – 5 °C to + 45 °C
  • Dimensions: 51 × 48 × 28 mm (L × B × H)
  • Load line connection: with enclosed spring plug-in terminal
  • Installation: flush-mounted wall box (Gira recommend the electronics box from Kaiser)

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.

About Gira

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.

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Introducing the IntesisBox®: Making automated ...

January 22nd, 2010

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.

About Intesis Software

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.

 

 

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Omnio RATIO Room Temperature Sensor RTF103

January 3rd, 2010

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.

Product & Function Description

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.

Primary Functions

With the Ratio® room temperature radio sensor, the following signals are sent:

  • Measuring and transmitting actual values
  • Measuring and transmitting index values
  • Measuring and transmitting the position of the operation mode switch

The receiving unit analyzes the transmitted radio telegram.

Technical Data

  • Sending frequency 868,3 MHz, band width +- 120KHz
  • Sending capacity 10 mW
  • Modulation type ASK
  • Power supply by solar generator, buffering by condenser, battery-free

Measuring Values

  • Actual value: temperature: 0 .. 40°C ; conversion 8 Bit linear and Measuring accuracy: +- 1K
  • Index value: Adjustment +5 ..+30 °C ; conversion 8 Bit linear and Measuring accuracy: +- 1K
  • Operation mode switch with 4 positions

Operational Elements

  • 1 Stk. LRN key for sending the programming telegram

Mechanical Data

  • Casing is synthetic ABS
  • Measurements: WxHxD 80mm x 80mm x 16mm
  • Mounting: Screws or adhesive with adhesive strip
  • Weight: approx. 70g

Electric Security

  • Protection: IP20
  • Protection class III (small voltage protection, DIN EN 60730-1

Surrounding Conditions

  • Environmental temperature when in operation: -20°…+ 45° C
  • Operating temperature range: 0°C – +50°C
  • Storing temperature: -25…+ 70° C
  • Relative humidity (not condensing): 5.93%
  • Bedewing not admissible

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

 

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KNX intelligent building technology can save energy by ...

November 30th, 2009

UMPNVB82SBGBIndustrial sites consume huge amounts of energy with non dwellings thought to be responsible for around 20% of the UK’s total energy usage. New building regulations implemented in April 2006 have gone some to way to encouraging building owners who are refurbishing to install energy efficient technology. However, there are still greater savings to be made, but surprisingly little awareness of how to achieve them. Managers and Engineers in industrial spaces are now turning away from traditional building management systems and instead looking towards intelligent building control technologies to provide the solution to energy management challenges.

But what is an ‘intelligent building’?

Today it is widely accepted as a space where all elements lighting, heating, security, access control, ventilation are able to respond in real time to the users’ needs and building occupancy patterns. The potential benefits and return on investment from an integrated building are highly tangible lower energy costs, security and enhanced facilities management. To achieve this level of ‘intelligence’ an international building control standard called KNX has been developed. Agreed by the leading manufacturers in Europe, it allows the integration of a range of products from a range of manufacturers using a simple software tool, essentially allowing them to ‘talk’ to one another and work together. The system has been designed for ease of installation with just a simple twin-core ‘highway’ cable needed (installed in addition to the mains cabling); none of the layers of cables associated with conventionally cabled systems.

Significant energy savings provide building managers and owners with a highly cost-effective way of ensuring energy is conserved. Once installed, it allows users to automatically carry out energy management and building control tasks such as the control, monitoring and optimisation of building services and load management. Using features such as room temperature management and zoned temperature control which allows separate heating settings for different areas of the building, KNX delivers a reduction in a building’s energy consumption of up to 40%.

One of the key benefits of KNX is its ability to deliver significant energy savings through lighting control. A lighting control system can be simply configured so that lights are only ‘on’ when someone is present in a room, or in a zone of a large industrial space. Russell Downing, specification manager at Siemens, explains:

“A KNX system can also monitor natural daylight levels to dim or turn the lights off when enough ambient light is present. In large industrial spaces where there may be several thousand luminaires turned on 24/7, the ability to automatically make use of natural daylight while still providing the level of light needed results in substantial energy savings. By employing these simple measures, effective use of lighting control alone can result in energy savings of up to 30-40%.”

Breaking down the barriers Mr Downing believes that KNX is not comparable to many other control systems:

“Many conventional control systems stop short of delivering the full functionality of an ‘intelligent building’: A significant human element is required for optimal effective operation even if control systems are correctly specified and installed.Understanding the concept of KNX is vital, in order to appreciate the true benefit of the available functionality and the impacts of being able to control all aspects of a building from a central point.”

According to Siemens, it does not cost the earth to integrate an Intelligent Building Control system. With consideration paid to the ever rising cost of energy prices, investment in an open control standard like KNX is a reasonable one. As Russell Downing says,

“This is all about future proofing a building. If all buildings had KNX installed as standard,the UK would be well on the way to achieving its energy reduction targets and businesses would benefit from saving money on the bottom line.The concept of an energy efficient building is not only desirable, but for regulators, purchasers and industrial managers it is also essential.”

Visit Siemens.co.uk to find out more about their building technology product range.

UMPNVB82SBGB

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KNX will once again show strength at Light+Building ...

November 24th, 2009
Light+Building 2010

Light+Building, held in Frankfurt from April 11-16 2010, will attract more than 167,000 visitors and around 2,200 exhibitors. The international KNX Association will once again be fully supporting the event – indeed it is the biggest exhibition where the organization has a stand. Highlights at the 2010 exhibition from KNX will include the presentation of the international KNX Awards and the launch of the new ETS4 programming tool.

About Light+Building 2010

Light+Building is the world’s leading trade fair for Architecture and Technology. It is used by manufacturers from over 50 countries, including all market leaders, to launch trends and innovations from the fields of lighting, electrical engineering and building automation. You can see the unique range of products and services for yourself at the next Light+Building in Frankfurt am Main from 11 to 16 April 2010! To find our more visit Light+Building.

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Gira InfoTerminal Touch: The central switching unit for ...

November 2nd, 2009

The Gira InfoTerminal Touch from the Gira Instabus KNX/EIB system is the central switching unit for intelligent electrical installations.

The 5.7” TFT touch display enables intuitive navigation and provides an overview of the status of the entire building technology. With the colour display, functions such as switching, dimming and blind control can be executed, light scenes can be saved and called up, and a variety of bus functions can be linked with ease. The user menu is freely definable and can be individually structured.

Gira InfoTerminal Touch

Functionality

  • Maximum of 50 pages with a maximum of 8 operating and display elements or 25 pages with a maximum of 16 operating and display elements
  • Background images (jpg, bmp)
  • Switching status can be shown with a symbol
  • Freely programmable user menus
  • Password protection
  • Switching, dimming, blind and the display of measured values can be configured
  • Light scene function with auxiliary unit operation
  • Saving and calling up of 24 light scenes with up to 32 outputs (1 bit or 1 byte)
  • Limit-value calculation
  • Alarm function via pop-up functions or via acoustic signal
  • Internal real-time clock for time functions
  • 16-channel time-switch function (weekly program)
  • Extensive logic functions, e.g. timers, multiplexers and logic gates

Planning

The Gira InfoTerminal Touch is configured via a configuration software integrated in the ETS. A preview function provides assistance here. The page layout is freely definable. Operating and display elements can be positioned anywhere on the display. Configuration is carried out via the USB interface accessible from the front, or when making changes in the configuration via the KNX/EIB.

Installation

Gira InfoTerminal Touch can be installed either horizontally or vertically. The desired type of installation must be set at the start of configuration.

Technical data

  • Dimensions (W x H x D): approx. 228 x 146 x 8 mm
  • Illuminated touch display, size: 5,7”, with a resolution of: 320 x 240 pixels
  • Power supply: AC 230 V, 50 to 60 Hz
  • Connections: power supply (L, N) via screw terminals up to 2.0 mm, Instabus via connection and branch terminals
  • Ambient temperature: -5 °C to +45 °C
  • Protection type: IP 20

Product assortment

Gira InfoTerminal Finish Options
  • Black glass/aluminium = Order No. N 2071 05
  • Mint glass/aluminium = Order No. N 2071 18
  • White glass/aluminium = Order No. 2071 12
  • Flush-mounted installation housing for the installation of the Giro Info Terminal Touch = Order No. 0639 00
  • Subject to technical modifications.

About Gira

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.

GiraShop.co.uk supplies the complete range of products that are currently available in the English language catalogue.

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Theben’s VARIA Room Controller wins coveted design ...

November 2nd, 2009

Theben’s VARIA individual room controller with multi-function display has won a coveted design award from the Red Dot Institute for advanced design studies and is now on display at the prestigious Red Dot Design Museum in Essen.

Theben VARIA Room Controller

The KNX-compatible VARIA is an eight-channel display and controller with integral room thermostat that enables householders to take control of their environment in a living or workspace. With its sleek stainless steel buttons on a raised glass fascia, VARIA offers elegant styling with a rugged, long-lasting design that eliminates fragile touch screens.

It can display KNX-programmed profiles in as many as eight rooms, offering control over up to three functions in each of them that combine to provide the right ‘room scene’ for say reading, watching TV or sleeping. Scenes can be selected at the touch of a button, and users can adjust levels within limits defined at the time of installation.

VARIA can add an extra level of KNX intelligence and override these programmes, for instance, if ambient light levels suggest electric lighting is not needed, or presence detectors indicate that a room is unoccupied.

VARIA is available in the UK now from the Theben Group company Timeguard, a KNX UK member.

About Theben

The abilities of Theben AG lie in solutions for time, lighting and climate control. Within time switching devices, modules or bus systems, Theben produces the highest quality products in every range. Theben offers not only time switches in analogue and digital technology with classical switch tappets or segments, but also microprocessor-controlled digital devices that offer hours, days, weeks and years programs and an extensive program of sensors and actuators for the KNX/EIB bus technology. On top of this, Theben is well known for its stair light and twilight switches and for its clock thermostats that allow a power-saving heating control.

http://www.theben.de/

About KNX

KNX is the world’s only approved open-source building control standard and puts the intelligence into intelligent buildings. It enables the integration of KNX-compatible products, which are available from a wide range of manufacturers. Programming and control is achieved using a single software tool. KNX products are all thoroughly tested for compliance, ensuring they operate seamlessly together on a single network.

The KNX (UK) Association has been formed by a partnership of UK manufacturers, integrators and training establishments along with other interested parties to promote the KNX standard within the UK.

KNX-compliant products available for control of:

  • Lighting
  • HVAC
  • Blinds
  • Audio Visual Systems
  • Household Appliances
  • Energy Management and much more…

http://www.knxuk.org/

About Red Dot Design Awards

Red Dot Design Awards

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. The award-winning products are put before an international public in the red dot design museum.

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. The winners receive the awards in person on the occasion of the gala ceremony in the Essen Aalto-Theater, which is witnessed by more than 1,200 guests. In addition, the annual “red dot award: product design” also rewards one design team with the special title of design team of the year. The award, the “Radius” challenge trophy, has already been received by the design teams of many renowned companies, including LG Electronics, adidas, Apple, Mercedes-Benz, Nokia, Philips, Siemens and Sony.

http://en.red-dot.org/design.html

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The fully integrated primary school

October 19th, 2009

The Government is currently investing £45 billion in regenerating our schools and a target to re-build or significantly refurbish all secondary schools and 9,000 primary schools by 2016 is well underway.  It’s an incredible undertaking and one which will guarantee that our schools can offer a functional, fit for purpose learning environment for our children and a more cost effective, comfortable, secure and environmentally sound building.

Project Type

At a leading West Yorkshire Primary School the local Council had already completed a large-scale refurb programme that modernised the 140-year-old main school building, improving energy efficiency and security for staff and children.  A full electrical re-fit also had a critical role to play in achieving the school’s objectives.

Customer Expectations

It was essential we preserved what is a beautiful Victorian building, but at the same time moved the School into the 21st Century and made use of modern building technology.  It was agreed very early in the planning stage that the school could achieve our target of vastly improving the buildings electrical services and reducing our energy consumption by incorporating a fully integrated, controllable system.  We wanted to ensure that energy’s never wasted, while lighting and heating is of the highest standard in order to provide a pleasant environment for both pupils and staff.  The specification for the electrical services goes far beyond what is usually installed into a school, making us a striking example of what can be achieved through ground breaking electrical integration.

Customer Comment

The school is becoming closely aligned to the business world, with smart buildings that are designed to deliver services tailored to meet the needs of the occupant and reduce energy consumption.  By integrating our varied electrical systems, we now have total control over the entire school from our main reception office.  We’ve also achieved a significant reduction in overall energy consumption, an issue that was imperative in terms of both the environment and our budget.

Top Features

  1. A fully integrated Building Management System, that utilises the KNX protocol and is future-proofed for flexibility, upgrades and any changes down the line.
  2. All electrical works were completed during the Easter break without any disruption to the teaching schedule with KNX fast fit ‘plug & play’ technology.
  3. Jung Door Communication Management system with video feed from main entrance to the reception office.
  4. Installation of an energy efficient KNX lighting control system that is simple to operate, flexible and provides enhanced security out of school hours/term time.
  5. The buildings exterior security lights are all controlled by a dual control light sensor and event timer, ensuring that they are only switched on when it becomes dark, and allowing switch on time to change with the weather conditions/time of year.
  6. An integrated intruder alarm system that ensures all interior lights are switched off as soon as the alarm is set, eliminating the opportunity for lights being accidentally left on when the building is unoccupied.
  7. Fully integrated HVAC system that is set to turn on and heat or cool to pre-determined temperature one hour before staff and pupils arrive and also ensures that the air con is switched off automatically when the intruder alarm is switched on at the end of the school day.
  8. Merten System M room temperature controllers are fitted in every classroom/hallway, enabling the school to monitor the temperature of every room on an individual basis and adjust the heating to a preset optimum temperature.

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An Introduction to KNX: Making technology work together

October 19th, 2009

There will come a time (if you’ve not had one already) when a control system is a pre-requisite on a project and you will not have the option of conventional control.  Surely you don’t want to walk away? So when this happens, there is likely to be a vast choice of systems, all pertaining to provide the perfect solution.  In reality, over time, some will and some will not. KNX can, and in fact already does, control all electrical and environmental elements in a building.  And as the building evolves, so too can the KNX system. You would be a fool to ignore KNX and with this article, I hope I can give you enough information to get your attention, push you to find out more.

What is KNX?

KNX is the worldwide standard for home and building automation. In order to transfer control data to all building management components, a system is required that does away with the problems of isolated devices, by ensuring that all components communicate via one common language – in other words, a system such as the manufacturer and application domains independent KNX Bus.

The KNX standard is based upon more than 15 years of experience in the market, amongst others with its predecessor systems EIB, EHS and BatiBUS. Via the KNX medium to which all bus devices are connected (twisted pair, radio frequency, power line or IP/Ethernet), they are able to exchange information/data. Bus devices can either be sensors or actuators needed for the control of building management equipment such as: lighting, blinds/shutters, security systems, energy management, heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, signaling and monitoring systems, interfaces to service and building control systems, remote control, metering, audio/video control, white goods, etc. All these functions can be controlled, monitored and signaled via a uniformed system without the need for any extra control centers.

Why should you choose KNX?

By choosing the KNX standard as the backbone for your control solution, you open up a world of opportunities.  Some of the most highly respected electrical manufacturers in the world are involved with the international KNX standard, meaning the choice and quality of products that the KNX portfolio offers is unmatched. And by becoming skilled in one standard, you are able to offer your clients a whole spectrum of control solutions exceeding their expectations.

The KNX standard can be used across a range of control applications including:

  • Lighting
  • HVAC
  • Intruder alarms
  • Audio visual systems
  • Household appliances
  • Blinds/solar control
  • Façade management
  • Automatic window control
  • Energy management and control
  • Metering
  • Monitoring applications

Because KNX covers such a diversity of applications using one standard, it means your cabling network can be much simpler.  A single twisted pair cable can often suffice, with multiple elements operating together on a single network. KNX controlled devices are generally based around the standard green KNX/EIB bus cable (i.e. twisted pair) but can be run across the following media:

  • Radio Bus (wireless)
  • Ethernet (structured cabling)
  • Fibre Optic
  • Occasionally power line

A number of manufacturers have also developed ‘gateways’ to other control protocols, such as DALI (Digital Addressable Lighting Intelligence).  These simple devices are used to expand the capability of KNX control systems to provide the complete solution for your building.  KNX has also worked closely with management-level protocols such as BACnet to enable a close cooperation between these two standards when the project requires additional integration.

Specifiers and end users are increasingly heralding KNX as the open solution for any building control application.  The drawbacks of proprietary solutions or various hardware-based controls are being increasingly recognized.  What maintains KNX’s superiority is that every KNX-compliant piece of equipment has been 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.  So you can have total confidence in reliability and interoperability, whatever KNX devices or system you choose

Advantages of KNX

  • KNX is an International Standard, therefore future proof – ISO/EIC, CENELEC, CEN, SAC, ANSI/ASHRAE
  • By product certification, KNX guarantees Interoperability & Interworking of products. The KNX certification process ensures that different products of different manufactures used in different applications operate and communicate with each other.
  • KNX stands for high product quality. KNX Association requires a high level of production and quality control during all stages of the product life. Therefore all manufacturing members have to show compliance to ISO 9001 before they even can apply for a KNX product certification.
  • A unique manufacturer independent Engineering Tool Software ETS® – The PC software tool ETS allows the planning, engineering, and configuration of all KNX certified products.
  • KNX can be used for all applications in home and building control.
  • KNX is fit for use in different kind of buildings and can be used in both new as well as existing buildings.
  • KNX supports different configuration modes and offers different ‘step-in’ levels for the realization of KNX projects. Via KNX E-Mode (Easy Installation), non-KNX qualified electrical contractors are addressed. Via S-Mode (System Installation), KNX trained contractors/integrators are able to realize sophisticated installations.
  • KNX supports several communication media – Twisted Pair, Power Line, Radio frequency, IP/Ethernet.
  • KNX can be coupled to other systems. Several KNX manufacturers offer gateways to other networks, i.e. to other building automation systems, telephone networks, multimedia networks, IP networks, etc

KNX Projects in 80 Countries World Wide

KNX Projects World Wide

What’s the next step?

With Ivory Egg there’s a few ways of getting yourself and your business in a position to benefit from the growing KNX market.  We can offer a selection of training courses and books that will help set you on your way.

Training Courses

Ivory Egg can provide 3 levels of training to suit the needs of you and/or your business:

1. Introduction to KNX
A 2-day course that’s intended to be a starting point for those not able to commit to the full KNX Certification course and for any additional staff involved in selling/specifying of KNX. The course includes some practical programming.

2. KNX Certification
This course certifies the individual and the business and gets you listed as an official KNX ‘partner’ on the www.knx.org website. The aim is to give engineers who will be commissioning systems practical knowledge of the commissioning tool, it gives a thorough grounding on the principals with a lot of practical work included.

3. Customised
We can also provide direct one to one or customised training via the KNX Consultants.

Books

The best and only book we would recommend has been written by the KNX association themselves.  The KNX Silver Bible is the definitive handbook, providing an introducing to the KNX system and common applications.  It addresses beginners as well as professionals who already have a basic knowledge of home and building control based on KNX, and is available to order from the KNXShop.co.uk.

Forum

If you have a specific KNX query, then the Ivory Egg forum is also a good source of support, as all the key manufacturers’ and integrators’ keep a close eye on this.

Mentoring

If you’re not too keen to jump in yourself and do it all on your first project, then an alternative may be to employ a certified engineer to help you. They could do all the design work and commissioning or just help you as and when you need it. There are a number of consultants who can help you with this depending on your needs and where you’re based.  Please contact us on 01243 572 700 and we’ll put you in touch with the most appropriate person for you and the specific project.

Further Information

If you still want to find out more about KNX, then there’s a growing network of integrators who have joined KNX UK to share their experiences, help promote the KNX standard within the UK and to benefit from the networking and promotional output of the organization.  Read more about this proactive UK-based organization at knxuk.org.

To find out more technical detail on the standard itself, visit the pages of the international KNX Association of Brussels web site at knx.org.

There are now over 150 manufacturers of KNX products, all of the key ones are supplied via knxshop.co.uk.  Here are a few links to some of the key manufacturers websites where you’ll find specific information about their KNX certified product ranges:

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