How the KNX standard links lighting, shading and climate control into one common system, from a home to a whole building, with equipment that can come from different manufacturers.
KNX is an international standard for building control. Devices from different manufacturers that carry the KNX mark work together on the same network and are programmed with the same tool, ETS.
The owner is not tied to a single brand. New devices can be added later, from whichever manufacturer suits the need.
Which switch turns on which light, or which scene is triggered, is defined in the programming. It can be changed later without opening the walls.
The same system starts in a home and extends to floors, offices and larger buildings, with a common way of working.
All devices connect to one common data bus, a twisted-pair cable that carries power and communication at the same time. Inputs send messages onto the bus and outputs carry them out. There is no central controller that is a single point of failure.
Each device holds its own logic. If one fails, the others keep working.
The network is split into lines and areas joined by couplers, so large buildings are organised per floor or per wing.
Through an IP router and gateways, KNX connects to visualisation, remote control and to BMS or PLC systems, depending on the project.
The functions applied in each project are chosen according to the building and the owner's needs.
Switching and dimming per room or group. Scenes such as "movie" or "leaving" turn on many lights with one button.
Shutters and blinds that move by time or sunlight, saving energy and protecting from the sun.
A separate thermostat and schedule for each room. Control can take open windows and presence into account.
Consumption logging, fault notifications and connection to security systems, with reports that show where savings are possible.
Control and an overview of the installation from a touch screen or phone, with remote access where requested.
| Medium | Where it is used | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Twisted pair (TP) | Main medium in most installations | Power and communication on the same cable |
| IP (KNXnet/IP) | Backbone between lines, connection to the computer network, programming and visualisation | IP router or IP interface |
| Radio (RF) | Extensions in existing buildings where no new cable can be run | Depending on device availability |
| Gateways | Connection to Modbus, BACnet or other systems | Confirmed per project |
The platform is chosen per project. KNX is a frequent choice in buildings, but we also work with other solutions, depending on the building and the equipment already in place.
Functions, communication options and limits are indicative and confirmed per project. The name KNX belongs to its owner (KNX Association). A note by KP AUTOMATION.
Tell us what you want to control and we will propose the right configuration.