Overview properties
In the following overview are named BUS systems which there is own practical experience. The overview is therefore only an excerpt from a wide variety of systems that are available. In addition, the number of these systems will also increase permanent and systems already available will be subject to constant development.
For the used BUS systems certain characteristics should be taken into account, so that your ideas and wishes can be implemented. For this purpose, these systems can be classified according to certain characteristics, among other things. Important features for me are e.g.:
- Interchangeability
- Transmission route
- System scope
- Integrability
Of course, the classification can be designed quite diversely. Depending on the point of view, this classification has a different priority. Most importantly, you have full control to your systems according to your desire. What behind of this is just to make it clear that everything is possible, but also understanding – not everything is always easy.
Interchangeability
Standards-based systems - Systems that use coordinated protocols so that devices from different manufacturers can be used. However, practice shows that there are some differences at versions.
Cooperation and alliances - several manufacturers have coordinated their BUS protocols so that manufacturers can be mixed.
Proprietary systems – systems which are manufacturer-specific. The use of these systems means a high dependency on a manufacturer only. Depending on the product range, there is a closed, complete system. A connection to other systems can possibly be established via gateways.
Transmission route
Wired or cable network – there are systems that either needs their own BUS-cable, such e.g. KNX, LON or using an existing cable infrastructure. Commonly used infrastructures are the network supply (so-called powerline) or LAN networks. Coax cable networks are less used. In the case of shared systems, the respective mutual influence must be taken into account, whatever may be a source of an error. Of course, independent BUS networks always offer the highest level of system security, but they are also usually more expensive.
Wireless transmission – there are quite different technologies. So there is transmission via sound waves (acoustic), well known infrared transmission (usually as remote control) or very widespread transmission via radio. Different radio areas are used by radio, e.g. in the range of 433 or 868 MHz, the 2.4 or 5 GHz WLAN, various Bluetooth systems and standards, the DECT system (known from cordless telephones) and various other radio systems. Each wireless system has different propagation properties, but they all have one thing in common - you cannot see the transmission route. So troubleshooting - if nothing received - is not always simple. Security can be achieved by encryption and a reconfirmation of the transmission.
System scope
Full range – a wide variety of products and solutions is assumed here. The additional selection of different designs is less important. Of course, it is a great advantage if there are only a few manufacturers in a system, because it can be assumed that all products from one manufacturer are coordinated, which minimizes sources of breakdowns.
Partial range – mostly there are special applications and products to cover the needs of the smart home. Such special applications and products can be a separate system that can be integrated or within a system there are special tasks to be solved, such as special sensors or a visualization to control the system.
Integrability
Open system – if the data transmission protocols are known and you have access to the system, it is an open system. But experience shows that not all manufacturers are accurate and follow to the standards of the systems. In order not to allow other manufacturers' errors on their products, certain authentication procedures can be used to prevent access. Some a manufacturer uses a standard, does not disclose it, and due to restrictions it is then offered as a separate system. Basically, open ones can always be connected to each other. Necessary adjustments are made in the gateway. This is used very often, especially in specialized systems - such as in lighting control with DALI or DMX.
Closed system – if the protocols of the data transfer are not known. In some cases, a device connection can be emulated, which is not a complete integration. Another possibility is the binary connection (mechanical e.g. relay contact), whereby only switching states can be transferred. An only apparent integration is the combination of user interfaces or control surfaces, whether as a central APP or in a visualization. The important thing is that you have comfortable and user-friendly access to your systems.