What is KNX and how does it work?

A standard, not a brand

KNX isn't a manufacturer: it's an open communication protocol, recognised as an international (ISO/IEC 14543-3) and European (EN 50090) standard. Hundreds of manufacturers make compatible devices, so you can mix brands within one installation.

How it works

All devices connect to a bus: usually a low-voltage twisted-pair cable running through the home. Simple messages travel along it, such as "turn on the living room light" or "the bedroom is at 21 °C".

• Sensors: switches, presence detectors, thermostats, weather stations.
• Actuators: modules in the distribution board that switch and dim lights, move blinds or control heating and cooling.
• System devices: the bus power supply and gateways to the IP network or app.

Distributed intelligence

In KNX there's no single indispensable brain: each device knows what to do. If one element fails, the rest keeps working. And it runs locally, without depending on the internet.

How it's programmed

The installation is configured with ETS, the official tool shared by all manufacturers. The resulting project file documents your installation: with it, any qualified integrator can maintain or extend it.

When it makes sense

• New builds or full renovations, where the bus can be installed.
• Homes meant to last for many years without becoming obsolete.
• Hotels, offices and developments wanting a consistent standard.
• Projects where switch and panel design matters.