Security, Efficiency & Comfort with KNX

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Why join KNX UK?

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Introduction to KNX UK

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Green Buildings Guide

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Touch Screen Guide

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ENERGY EFFICIENCY GUIDE

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ECOBUILD PLANS FORGING AHEAD!

KNX UK Association, Ecobuild, 20-22 March 2012, ExCel, London, Stand S 3710

Plans are really forging ahead with the KNX UK Association's presence than ever at Ecobuild 2012. Stand S3710 will be the home to the KNX UK Pavilion and individual showcase stands for several members including Wieland, BEG, Theben, Somfy, Wago, Bespoke Automation and Schneider. There will be live demonstrations of KNX technology in action, including the ETS 4 KNX software programming tool, as well as lively presentations and the opportunity for building professionals and consumers to discuss their current intelligent building projects.

KNX technology is already making a major contribution to the creation of a sustainable built environment through both commercial and residential projects throughout the world. Details of many of these successes will be highlighted on Stand S3710. Visitors will see the power of the KNX Standard for Home and Building Control and how it can create fully integrated, energy efficient commercial and residential buildings.

IVORY EGG ANNOUNCES CERTIFICATION COURSES FOR 2012

KNX UK Association member Ivory Egg offers a variety of KNX training courses in a fun and fully functioning, custom built training environment. The five day KNX Certification course is one of the most popular courses and includes KNX theory as well as practical training in the programming tool ETS4 - it is the only course for getting up and running with KNX! The course concludes with a theory and practical exam- passing these leads to KNX Partner Status which includes representation on the KNX website.

During the week delegates will also have plenty of opportunities to network with fellow students and the Ivory Egg Team as lunch every day and two evening meals are included.

Ivory Egg's dates for KNX Certification Courses 2012 ar:
6-10 Feb
26-30 March
14-18 May
16-20 July
3-7 Sep
19-23 Nov

To find out more about the Technical Workshops and other training opportunities with Ivory Egg visit www.knxshop.co.uk/Training call them on +44(0)1243 572700 or email info@ivoryegg.co.uk

ENTECH ANNOUNCES OPENING OF SECOND OFFICE IN SOUTH

EnTech Limited (www.entech-ltd.com) based in Stockport and a member of the KNX UK Association, now has a second office in Egham, Surrey. The company specialises in intelligent building controls and as a leading integrator of KNX technology has so far completed no less than 13 projects at MediaCityUK in Salford, the new home to the BBC. The company is also commissioning the lighting control at the new Bulgari Hotel in central London.

The success of EnTech's involvement with Briggs and Forrester at the new Bulgari Hotel in London necessitated them having full time engineers based in the capital and to consider the merits of opening a second office in that area.

EnTech will still be operating from their Head Office in Stockport but it is hoped that the opening of a second office will help manage and build on the business opportunities in the south of England.

Alan Vickery, MD comments: "Despite what some consider to have been the decimation of the UK's construction industry over the recent past, I hope, like us, you have noticed the continued underlying growth in knowledge of and about KNX. EnTech opening a base in the South of England is a response to this growth and our intention wherever possible to spread knowledge about the KNX protocol and the benefits if offers within the built environment. We believe that this growth will continue long into the future."

EnTech is now also structuring for growth and expansion. 2011 saw the appointments of a new Senior Project Management, a KNX Engineer and three apprentices. With the ever increasing interest in KNX, the forecast for 2012 is that the company will continue to grow.

KNX UK TECHNICAL WORKSHOP SUCCESS

The KNX UK Association's Technical Workshop on KNX Devices was a major success. Delegates attended the one day seminar in Bracknell during November 2011 to hear presentations by leading European authorities on how to develop KNX products and how to increase business through involvement with fast growing KNX intelligent building technology platform. Details were also given on the KNX Certification process and all the tools currently available to assist in product development.

Attendee Andy Wiles, Product Manager for Electrium Sales Limited, commented: "The KNX Technical Workshop was a very interesting and informative day. All the presentations were notable for their professional delivery and well thought-out content. Quite a task to pull-off given the variety of the delegates backgrounds and knowledge levels of KNX!"

BRE OFFERS KNX CERTIFIED TRAINING

The BRE has announced the next dates for its next five day KNX Association Certified Training Courses. They are 12-16 December 2011, 16-20 January 2012 and 20-24 February 2012.

Held at Watford, the BRE benefits from a number of buildings on its Innovation Park, including the Visitors Centre and Training Room, being installed with KNX. In addition the buildings on the Park demonstrate current methods of construction for sustainable, energy efficient buildings. Full details can be found at: http://www.bre.co.uk/page.jsp?id=634

KNX UK SIGNS UP FOR ECOBUILD 2012

KNX UK is delighted to announce its participation at Ecobuild 2012, to be held at London ExCeL, Tuesday 20 - Thursday 22 March 2012. Ecobuild is the world's biggest event for sustainable design, construction and the built environment as well as the UK's largest construction event of any kind. KNX UK will have a major presence in 2012 with its brilliant KNX UK Pavillion.

The KNX UK Pavillion will also incorporate individual pods accommodating separate KNX exhibitors, giving stand visitors more opportunities to find out about KNX Association member organisations and their technology. Andrew Braker of Wago, a KNX UK Association member, says: "Wago believe that exhibiting at the EcoBuild exhibition will enhance the position not only of KNX but also Wago's building and energy control products to key personnel in this industry sector. As a member of the KNX Association, exhibitions such as EcoBuild are key to exposing the KNX solutions to a vast range of organisation types and users which will only enhance the already great reputation KNX has and Wago wants to be at the forefront supplying KNX products."

Any organisation wishing to book a stand at Ecobuild 2012 can contact the organisers: Timo Bruggemann, Email tbruggemann@ibeltd.com or call 0207 560 4461.

BUILDING REGULATIONS AND A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO AUTOMATING SOLAR SHADING, HVAC AND LIGHTING

By Tim Pendleton, Director, Better Blind Company, a KNX UK Association Member.

In 2006, driven by targets of reducing CO2 emissions by 20% by 2015 and 60% by 2050, the UK Government set out its objective that all new homes and commercial buildings should be carbon neutral by 2016 and 2019 respectively. We don't have to look far for statistics which support the emphasis on energy performance of buildings - most strikingly, 40% of UK emissions can be attributed to buildings.

Document L of the Building Regulations, 2010 applies to new building work and extensions/refurbishments. The objective of this document is "Conservation of Fuel and Power". It specifies target CO2 emission rates that buildings must not exceed. It focuses on limiting heat gains and heat losses, as a means of reaching these targets.

Importantly, there is now an emphasis on monitoring, meaning energy certificates must be provided to authorities both prior to development and after completion. This ensures that the energy performance upon which planning approval was granted is indeed met by the occupied building.

One need only look at the predominant style of modern architecture to understand the regulations' focus on solar gains and heat losses. Large glass surfaces are aesthetically pleasing, and it is also understood that people feel and, in the case of commercial buildings, work better when they have exposure to daylight and eye contact with the outside world. However, such expanses of glass increase potential for solar gain in summer, increasing energy consumption through artificial cooling, and heat loss in winter, leading to energy consumption through artificial heating. Therefore, Document L advocates the use of glazing with appropriate U (heat transmittance) and G (solar gain transmittance) values.

The comfort of building occupants relies on stability of internal conditions including temperature and lighting levels. Outdoor factors such as the weather that cause heat loss and solar gain are dynamic, varying between seasons, between day and night and from hour to hour. However, glazing's energy performance is inherently non-dynamic.
Consider the façade of a building to be like a jacket. You wouldn't wear the same jacket in summer as you would in the depths of winter. Glazed facades, even when supplemented with manual blinds or fixed external shading, offer this degree of inflexibility. This means that the effect of the dynamic external conditions have to be compensated for by artificial lighting, artificial cooling/ventilation and artificial heating in order to achieve comfort and stability indoors.

Energy-intelligent solar shading in the form of automated internal blinds, curtains and external shading can use interior temperature, exterior weather sensors and sun tracking technology to trigger automated behaviour. When used in conjunction with the most appropriate level of glazing, solar shading provides the ability for a building facade to be dynamic and respond to changes in external conditions, thus reducing load on HVAC and lighting systems.

Energy-intelligent solar shading, HVAC and lighting experts agree that the days of independent systems and controls for the management of each have now passed, and the ambitious CO2 emission targets in Document L can only be met by adopting a joint and integrated approach to planning and implementation. It is suggested that building automation system integrators bring together suppliers from solar shading, HVAC, and lighting disciplines at the outset of the building specification process. Many building automation systems integrators offer blinds and curtains on an ad-hoc basis; some profess to be able to derive energy saving benefits by automating HVAC and lighting. However, few offer HVAC, lighting and solar shading as a holistic energy saving solution.

Partnering with a solar shading company will be key to driving additional sales by achieving real energy savings, cost savings, and occupant comfort for clients.

Open KNX shading controls offer more complex control over an unlimited number of zones and shading units. Building automation control systems based on open protocol bus networks, such as KNX, offer a greater degree of integration, customisable behaviour and compatibility between different types of controls and systems and are therefore more suited to the holistic and integrated approach, obtaining optimum benefits.

KNX STARS AT WORLDSKILLS LONDON 2011

The WorldSkills London 2011 event in London, 8-11 October 2011, proved to be a highly successful event for the KNX Association. Not only was KNX used as the protocol of choice for the very first time in the Electrical Installation category, but also hundreds of students took the opportunity to visit the KNX stand to see why KNX represents the future of intelligent building technology.

3535 competitors in the Electrical Installation category used KNX as the platform for their work to demonstrate their remarkable craftsmanship and practical electrical engineering skills. The selection of KNX reflected the global trend in home and building technology where KNX is the only worldwide standardised bus technology.

Michael Hourihan, WorldSkills Chief Expert for the Electrical Installations category, said: "We have to move on and make sure our skills are up to date with modern technology. So an important step for us was the inclusion of KNX in one of our modules."

All competitors achieved extremely high standards of craftsmanship, with the eventual worthy winners being Benjamin Houghton of Australia (Gold Medal), Gian-Andrea Casaulta of Switzerland (Gold Medal) and Kieran Doherty of Ireland (Gold Medal); Bernt Erlend of Norway (Bronze Medal) and Seon Jung Hwang of Korea (Bronze
Medal).

The KNX Association also had a major presence at WorldSkills 2011 through its exhibition stand that attracted eager students and school children throughout the four day event. They grasped the opportunity to find out more about KNX and to make their own imaginative, funny and thoughtful videos to promote an understanding of KNX technology. Videos can be seen and you can cast your vote at http://contest.knx.org

Heinz Lux, Director of the KNX Association commented: "WorldSkills 2011 was an excellent event, not just for KNX but for a whole generation of young people who were given a great insight into the pportunities open to them in the world of electrical installations in the future."

KNX UK OUT IN FORCE AT BUILDING CONTROLS SOUTH

Once again KNX UK was out in force - this time supporting the new Building Controls South exhibition held during October at Sandown Park. "The help and time given by our members who supported the show was invaluable and we thank them for their dedication," says KNX UK President, Iain Gordon.

KNX TECHNICAL WORKSHOP - THE DEVELOPMENT OF KNX DEVICES

The KNX UK Association is holding a free of charge one-day Technical Workshop on The Development of Technical Devices. It will be held on Tuesday 22 November 2011 at Lily Hill House, Bracknell, Berkshire, starting at 9.00 a.m.

This highly informative one day Workshop is being held in the UK for the first time. It is designed specifically for product manufacturers' and technology experts, providing information on how to develop KNX products. It will give manufacturers guidance on how to increase business through involvement with fast growing KNX intelligent building technology platform.

Leading speakers from the world of KNX will provide highly informative and practical presentations, covering a range of topics:
How to take the necessary steps to develop KNX products
The support available to assist in KNX product development
The various technological solutions available
Available tools and components
The KNX Certification process

Attendees to the Workshop will receive important KNX support material including the KNX Handbook for Home and Building Control, the ETS4 Lite KNX programming tool as well as a KNX presentation/documentation DVD.

To sign up for this highly informative event, please contact Tara Gartland, Secretary KNX UK Association, P O Box 4082, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG42 9EQ Tel: 0845 869 5908 Email: admin@knxuk.org

DIMMING OF LUMINAIRES WITH ABB KNX UNIVERSAL DIMMERS

i-bus KNX universal dimmers from ABB were voted Products of the Year in the KNX UK Association annual awards. According to model, they feature a phase control or phase angle control that can be set to suit the lighting load. Incandescent and fluorescent lamps can be dimmed using the universal dim actuators via a phase angle control. LV halogen lamps with conventional transformers are also dimmed using phase control whilst those with electronic transformers are dimmed using phase angle control.

ABB is a member of the KNX UK Association and their dimming options for lighting are highly desirable as they provide comfort through the creation of a living environment that suits the mood. Dimming is also cost-effective in both commercial and domestic applications as it promotes energy savings by creating lighting levels in accordance with the availability of natural daylight. Dimming can extend the life of the luminaires through reduced intensity of the "switch-on" brightness. Reduced brightness levels can also be implemented to suit different areas and differing lighting requirements.

ABB offers a range of i-bus KNX Universal Dimmers, light controllers and DALI Gateways. They are all featured in the company's ABB i-bus Smart Home & Intelligent Building Control Product Range Overview.

KNX UK ASSOCIATION WELCOMES BETTER BLIND COMPANY

Better Blind Company Limited, automated solar shading specialists, is now a member of the KNX UK Association. A business that operates in all areas of the UK, Better Blind Company places particular emphasis on automation, specifically integration with KNX building automation technologies.

As a manufacturer, supplier and installer of automated solar shading solutions to both the commercial and residential sectors, Better Blind Company undertakes projects ranging in size from single unit installations to large scale contracts. Clients include the Environment Agency, Galliard Homes and WWRD (Waterford Wedgwood and Royal Doulton).

"Our aim is to position Better Blind Company Limited at the leading edge of solar shading automation, by working in partnership with other KNX UK members. This will enable a turnkey solution to be offered to clients that includes "KNX Ready" solar shading. Membership of the KNX UK Association will help us to achieve this goal," says Director Tim Pendleton.

Better Blind Company's "KNX Ready" solar shading offers energy savings, especially where used as part of a holistic approach to "energy intelligent" automation of HVAC, lighting and solar shading. This enables compliance with Part L of the Building Regulations.

Better Blind Company is also able to offer energy performance modelling that compares the energy and cost savings provided by different combinations of glazing, shading product types and fabrics.

KNX WORLDSKILLS TRAINING PROVIDED BY KNX UK MEMBER EIGHTY A CONTROLS

KNX UK Association member Eighty A Controls has been playing a major role in training a UK representative for the forthcoming WorldSkills 2011 event in London. KNX is the specified technology in the Electrical Installations category and Andrew Taylor, Director of Eighty A Controls has been directly involved in preparing young electrician Chris Young for the competition.

At WorldSkills 2011, London 5-8 October, 1000 competitors from 50 nations will compete to become the "best of the best." The international KNX Association has reinforced its commitment to developing the workforce of the future with its role as Presenting Sponsorship for the Electrical Installations sector of the competition.

Chris has had intensive training sessions in preparation for the event with the emphasis on "real world KNX applications" and preparing for the use of the KNX products and equipment that will be used at the event itself. He has already had KNX training with other KNX UK members KNX Consultants and Ivory Egg.

Andrew Taylor comments: "I am very happy to be helping with the training of the upcoming generation of professionals. I believe that by choosing KNX, Chris and the organisers of the WorldSkills 2011 have chosen to emphasise the right tools to engineer the future. The WorldSkills 2011 provides a great opportunity to further engineering applications and I am thrilled to be a part of it."

GENERATION KNX AT WORLDSKILLS 2011 IN LONDON

The international 2011 WorldSkills Competition in London for the first time based on KNX

KNX: a valuable asset also after the competition

Brussels/London - The popularity of conventional installation methods not using bus technology is set to decline in the near future. For this reason, it is very important that apprentices and those at the beginning of their careers are familiarised with bus technology and building control right from the start. KNX, as the only provider of a globally-standardised bus technology, is therefore proud to announce that the international WorldSkills competition will from this year's competition in London onwards be based on KNX only.

In many vocational schools, a large amount of potential for good, interested apprentices lies dormant. Modern technologies require skilled experts who, once they have completed their apprenticeships, can continue to work in innovative companies providing comprehensive services. The home and building control of the future will require highly-trained professional people. The KNX bus technology presents an excellent opportunity for companies to provide young professionals with good prospects after their apprenticeship is finished, and thus bind them to the company.

WorldSkills London 2011 puts its trust in KNX.

Following the general trend in home and building technology, the organization of WorldSkills has decided to base its Competition on KNX. The venue for this world premiere will be ExCel, London, 5-8 October 2011. In this 41st ever WorldSkills International Competition, teams from 50 different countries will be competing. The KNX technology will play an important role: the practical tasks will include work relating to KNX, hence every candidate will need to be familiar with the KNX technology. KNX, as the worldwide BUS standard equally accepted in all countries, is an ideal technological platform for this international professional competition.
KNX: a valuable asset also after the competition

"The youth of today is open to change: we are obliged to give them the opportunity in the future to get involved in the exciting sector of electro-technology and KNX. We hope that all the participants enjoy the competition and wish them every success with KNX," says Stephan Bauer, President of the KNX Association.

KNX Association, its Members as well as Training Centres and KNX partners have invested a great deal to ensure that the young generation's knowledge on KNX is improved. New KNX Training Centres have been set up in many new countries, reaching a total of 185 KNX Training Centres in 35 countries! Already today many contestants and experts of WorldSkills are listed as one of the 25,000 certified KNX.

KNX CENTRE STAGE AT BUILDING CONTROLS SHOW

KNX UK, Building Controls South, Sandown Park, 26-27 October 2011

Building Controls South, 26-27 October 2011 at Sandown Park, is the only exhibition in the UK which is dedicated to the building controls industry and will highlight new product developments and technical innovation in building controls. KNX UK will be holding a series of technical workshops alongside the exhibition to give show visitors the opportunity to find out about the technology.

KNX is the worldwide standard for home and building control, allowing home and building owners or managers to have complete control over the working or living environment. This can include control of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and lighting as well as the operation of blinds and shutters, electrical appliances, windows, security systems, metering and many other functions.

KNX is a simple and time proven system for intelligent electrical installation networking that offers significant advantages over other alternative approaches to building automation and control. Hundreds of manufacturers worldwide produce compatible products and this effectively makes a KNX based solution future proof because if one particular product becomes obsolete, another will be available to do the same job. As every KNX product works on the same principle, there are also no integration issues or extra engineering costs.

Today, the emphasis is very much on green buildings and KNX technology can make an important contribution to energy savings. KNX installations can switch on power-hungry devices automatically when electricity rates are at the lowest. Heating, cooling and ventilation can be regulated separately in each room or area via KNX temperature sensors and it can also prevent unnecessary environmental adjustment when a room is empty. During the winter, when warmth and lighting make an even greater contribution to the comfort that a building provides, KNX can regulate the climate and lighting in individual rooms in accordance with the outdoor temperature, prevailing daylight levels and solar gain.

Mark Redfern, Managing Director of Wieland Electric and also a KNX UK Board member says: "KNX is delighted to be holding the very first technical workshops in the UK as part of Building Controls South. One very important part of any industry is the process of education because this is the only way in which everyone can share knowledge and learn from the experience of others."

The KNX technical workshops will run across both days of the exhibition and offer hand's on experience of the technology. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis and can also be pre-booked. The KNX CPD presentation will also be presented as part of the seminar programe.

THE NEED FOR INTELLIGENT BUILDING CONTROLS

By Iain Gordon, President of the KNX UK Association

There has never been a better time to consider investing in intelligent building controls to conserve energy. With the compounded effect of short term prices rises of energy and the projected shortage in energy supplies within the next 5 years, the need for energy control and conservation at a building level has never been more important. The EU directive for 20% reductions in green house gasses and energy use is now less than 9 years away and another 1% per year thereafter for 30 years is to follow. It is a considerable and also a very real demand. As a consequence, there is an opportunity for busineses who can assist owners of the country's building stock to achieve current levels and set in place systems to maintain further reductions as time progresses.

The term "Intelligent building" has different meanings to different people but generally is considered to describe properties where owners, occupiers or managers have full and integrated control over their everyday working or living environment. This means that all or some of the building's services - such as heating, ventilation, air conditioning, lighting, security, metering, blinds, windows, facades and AV systems can all be controlled to the requirements of the user and interact with each other accordingly.

Intelligent building technology is integrated within the buildings functions at either the construction phase or during refurbishment and is designed to achieve the required level of functionality. Suitable systems can make a significant contribution to energy conservation and additionally should offer a sustainable solution whereby it will not become obsolete or be outmoded and can adapt as the building ages and new technologies are introduced.

The first thing most people consider with a new energy conservation based solution is how long it will take to pay for itself. It has been frequently proven that with an intelligent building controls solution, payback is considerably quicker than with many other energy based installations partly due to the high capital costs some generation solutions involve but also acknowledgment that building control has instant benefits. University research has shown over 50% savings on all building functions energy use when using a KNX intelligent building controls system in comparison to conventional multi platform systems that are not connected. Payback can be considered in years and not decades. In addition to this, there are the ongoing savings of energy achieved as new end technologies are implemented, that can themselves be supported on the existing controls network. Smart metering is an example of a new requirement supported on the existing KNX infrastructure without the need for expensive re-wiring.

We all talk about sustainability in relation to building projects, but what about sustainability of business? As electrical contractors, the types of works we implement have changed dramatically in the last decade. Smart metering, photo-voltaics, power factor correction, E-car charging, and many other types of energy management and production are the current market leading technologies. As we progress through the next ten years, these and other more radical technologies are going to be upon us and capable of providing solid revenue streams for businesses prepared to adopt the new systems. Specialised skills attract higher prices and a company working within the intelligent building controls sector with systems such as KNX can expect a considerable uplift in margins.

Intelligent building control technology is inherent to the electrical installation. The chances are you have to run in cabling for HVAC contractors, plumbers, window companies and other control systems within the building. Initially partnering with an existing systems integrator and then investing in one of your electricians, you can take the electrical system under control and give the building and your customer what we all really expect to be able to deliver in these times - intelligent integrated buildings. You possible already have very robust relationships with main contractors, consultants and engineers and as a vast majority of projects are still awarded as design build, you can offer systems within the design process of the build.

These are exciting times, with technology advancing at astonishing rates. As consumers we are adapting and as companies, we can address the consumer's needs without the need for major changes to how we work. Sceptics are only late adopters but the technologies are here to stay.

REALITY LOGIC GETS KNX UK INSTALLATION OF THE YEAR ACCOLADE

At the KNX UK Association's 2010 Awards, systems integrator Reality Logic of Rustington won the accolade for Installation of The Year. The award was made for the installation at the prestigious One Hyde Park development. Pictured from left to right are
Julian Ellis, Jeremy Aston and Andrew Rollinson.

KNX CONSULTANTS TRAINS UK WORLDSKILLS CANDIDATES

KNX UK Association members, KNX Consultants and Ivory Egg have been playing a major role in training potential Team UK members as part of the selection process for the WorldSkills 2011 competition. Young electricians Scott Wigmore and Chris Young undertook the KNX Basic Certification course, required for KNX Partner status, under the guidance of Ben Lewis of KNX Consultants. Training took place at the offices of Ivory Egg, a registered KNX Training Centre.

WorldSkills is a unique global competition where young people from across the world compete to become the "best of the best." 1000 competitors from 50 nations will compete in 45 skills at ExCel, London 5-8 October 2011. The international KNX Association has reinforced its commitment to developing the workforce of the future with its role as Presenting Sponsorship for the Electrical Installations sector of the competition.

Richard Seagar, who won in the Electrical Installations category at the 2009 WorldSkills competition, was also trained by KNX Consultants and used KNX for his winning entry. In 2011, KNX is the specified technology to be used in this category and potential entrants from countries throughout the world are therefore now going through the qualification process.

The five day course provided by KNX Consultants and Ivory Egg is a path to KNX Partner status and has given the candidates the right to be both listed on the www.knx.org website and to join the KNX UK National Association. In preparing them for WorldSkills, the course included the concept and theory of KNX, provided practical training in the use of the KNX ETS software programming tool and culminated in a KNX Certification examination.

Ben Lewis of KNX Consultants comments: "The WorldSkills event is a real test of the abilities of the young competitors to deliver to the fullest extent of their chosen field. As with all categories covered, the competitors in the Electrical Installations category are the future of the industry and need to be seen to be able to operate with the state of the art products and methods.

"KNX is known as 'the worldwide standard for home and building control' and an open protocol complying with international standards. It would therefore seem natural for the competitors in this event to be competent and capable with KNX. Indeed, I would venture that anything less would not be a complete representation of the skills of the contemporary electrical installer."

Ben reports that it was a pleasure to train Scott and Chris, one of whom will go forward to represent the UK later this year. "I will certainly follow the progress of these two bright and motivated young men with great interest. Whatever happens between now and the WorldSkills event, I am sure that both the candidates will have a rewarding future."

Team UK will be announced on 29 June 2011 during the Apprenticeship Awards, taking place at the Mermaid Theatre, London. "The management and development of Team UK simply couldn't happen without the support of so many individuals and supporting organisations such as KNX," says ECA Education and Training Manager David Thomas in his role as UK Skills Training Manager. "Reaching the highest international standards starts with the training and development of the specialist skills needed for international competition. The support of KNX provides an ideal opportunity for the competitor for Team UK to have the best possible support in the latest building control technology."

ANOTHER AWARD WINNER FROM THEBEN

Theben's PlanoCentro Presence Detector for larger areas lies virtually flat on a ceiling and has won one of Europe's most prestigious design awards. Established in 1953, the iF Product Design Award attracts entries from across the globe and this win for Theben will make the PlanoCentro the Presence Detector of choice.

The PlanoCentro combines its good looks with superb functionality. Unobtrusive as it is, it offers a complete range of options to enable integrators to control heating, lighting and other systems in response to presence and ambient lighting in a building or zone. Lights will only turn on if there is someone in the area and ambient conditions require that they will need artificial light. The constant light control function means that lighting can be dimmed up and down in response to the lux level required in the configured zone.

The new PlanoCentro's square 360 degree detection range covers an area of up to 100 metres square with no compromise on sensitivity and a square detection field pattern. This concept makes it much easier to plan floor coverage in a room without gaps in the detection field and has successfully been used in many prestigious projects in the UK. Presence Detectors with a square detection field were first developed by HTS (now ThebenHTS) in 1993. This concept has evolved over the years to give ThebenHTS unrivaled experience in this field, with continued product developments such as the hugely successful Compact Office KNX.

As you would expect, sensitivity, time delays and brightness thresholds can all be adjusted, and there is a choice of surrounds to satisfy even the most particular interior designer. Also, typically of Theben, installation is easy in false ceilings. PlanoCentro KNX can be configured using ETS program or by using an optional remote control the SendoPro. The end user also has the option of a hand held remote the SendoClic, to make personal adjustments or to operate other configured KNX devices like room blinds.

DELIGHTED TO BE INVOLVED IN WORLDSKILLS 2011

The KNX Association is delighted to be a presenting sponsor at the 2011 WorldSkills (www.worldskills) event in London from 5-8 October. More than ever, education and training is important in the electro-technical sector, where technology is developing ever faster and is increasingly complex. Electrical installations of the future will require well-trained people. Following training, KNX technology represents the best means of offering the next generation the know-how they need.

"The youth of today is open to change: we are obliged to give them the opportunity in the future to get involved in the exciting sector of electro-technology and KNX. We therefore have plenty of reasons to sponsor the next competition of Worldskills in London 2011. We hope that all the participants enjoy the competition and wish them every success with KNX," says Stephan Bauer, President of the KNX International Association.

ARQ TECHNOLOGIES OPEN DAY SUCCESS

Some 40 delegates from a range of backgrounds including as architects, developers and designers attended the ARQ Technologies Open Days, held at the end of April. A number of the companies' suppliers also gave excellent presentations on their product ranges.

Vimar travelled from Italy as ARQ Technologies is the only integrator to display their products in the UK. The main area of interest, after the realisation that all functions are controlled by an open protocol, was the ability to monitor energy usage and effectively remove the human interface.

"We have since had serious interest from the public and private sector which will more than likely turn into live projects as a direct result of the Open Days. Overall very successful and we will probably repeat one day events every 2-3 months as most attendees were unaware of KNX and similar systems," says Terry O'Connell of ARQ Technologies

BCIA Awards

KNX UK is proud to be a major sponsor at the 2011 Building Controls Industry Association (BCIA) Awards,(Click here to visit the website) to be held at the St John's Hotel, Solihull on 12 May 2011.

KNX UK ANNOUNCES AWARD WINNERS

At the AGM of the KNX UK Association held at Lily Hill House, Bracknell on 24 March 2011, the 2010 KNX UK Award Winners were announced.

At an entertaining and highly informative event, KNX UK President Iain Gordon presented the Awards to Best UK KNX Installation, KNX Product of the Year and KNX Champion.

Systems Integrator Reality Logic took Installation of the Year for the prestigious One Hyde Park project. ABB's Four Gang Universal Dimmer and Power Tools won Product of the Year and Mark Redfern was nominated KNX Champion for his work in promoting the Association during 2011 and heading up the Association's Marketing Task Group.

KNX UK BOARD MEMBERS ELECTED AT AGM

New Board Members were elected at the AGM of the KNX UK Association held at the end of March 2011.

The event took place at Lily Hill House in Bracknell and the following Board Members were re-elected and elected:
Iain Gordon (Re-elected President and Integrator Member), Mark Redfern (Re-elected Vice President and Manufacturer Member), Darren Burford (Integrator Member), Nick Gale (Integrator Member), Gareth Rowlands (Manufacturer Member), Andrew Braker (Manufacturer Member), Carlton Reed (Integrator Member), Stephen Payne (Manufacturer Member), Scott Burgess (Wholesaler Member), Wayne Brewerton (Manufacturer Member) and Ty Saville (Manufacturer Member).

KNX UK's re-elected President Iain Gordon commented: "The AGM was an extremely successful event and I congratulate those who have now joined the KNX UK Board. I am sure they will make a real difference to the way we serve our members and to the continued growth of the Association."

STEINEL DELIGHTED TO BE MEMBER OF KNX UK

Steinel UK is one of the recent companies to join KNX UK and Peter Lawrence, General Manager for Steinel (UK) Ltd, says: "Steinel is delighted to join KNX UK. Having recently launched Control Pro - our new generation of KNX compatible lighting sensor technologies - we feel it is crucial we are part of such an important trade association. The Control PRO system uses both infrared and radar sensor technologies to suit 'regular' areas as well as large, unusually shaped areas that may contain 'obstructions'. However, what really sets this product apart is its mechanically scalable square-shaped detection characteristics which represent the first innovation of this kind anywhere in the world."

ECOBUILD SUCCESS

KNX UK had a highly successful Ecobuild 2011 exhibition with the stand attracting professionals from all sectors of the building industry as well as self builders and general intelligent building enthusiaists. The hands-on demonstrations clearly demonstrated the advantages of using KNX technology in creating energy efficient, joined up buildings for the twenty first century.

ARQ TECHNOLOGIES ANNOUNCES KNX OPEN DAYS

KNX UK Association member ARQ Technologies of Burscough, Lancashire, has announced a series of Open Days dedicated to KNX intelligent building technology. They will take place Tuesday 26, Wednesday 27 and Thursday 28 April to mark the opening of the company's new fully intelligent building showroom controlled by KNX technology.

ARQ Technologies says that it is the only showroom of its kind anywhere in the UK and the Open Days will be inspirational all those interested in KNX including architects, M&E engineers, contractors, potential users from homeowners to building managers as well as facilities managers.

The new showroom will feature state of the art KNX products which are being provided by world leading manufacturers and will demonstrate innovative KNX technologies such as modular wiring, air source heat pumps, solar shading, energy monitoring and AV systems. The ability to integrate these technologies on the KNX platform provides major user benefits in terms of energy efficiency and the creation of fully joined up building services for home automation and commercial buildings.

Each Open Day includes seminars run by KNX product manufacturers and the KNX CIBSE CPD presentation will also be run each day, contributing towards Continuous Professional Development accreditation.

To reserve a place on any of the Open Days, email info@arqtechnologies.co.uk or call 01704 892641. More information is available at www.arqtechnologies.co.uk or from ARQ Technologies, Unit 705, Merlin Park, Ringtail Road, Burscough, Lancs., L40 8JY.

COLIN REACHES OUT TO THE WORLD WITH KNX!

Another day for us all, but for one KNX UK member the sale of a KNX solution is a hard one.

Colin Price, founder and owner of Ivory Egg and KNX Shop, was spotted in deepest darkest Panama with a local tribeswoman. What's more, he was wearing his prestigious KNX beenie hat in the sweltering jungle heat.

Colin is approximately half way through his epic voyage around the globe with his family aboard their yacht the Pacific Bliss and is currently off the coast of Ecuador.

Perhaps this is the start of the ascent of KNX into the heart of Central and South America! Good luck with the rest of the trip, Colin.

KNX SHOWS WORLD CLASS CONTROL AT DELHI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT

Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi is the busiest airport in India and its new Terminal 3, an 111,600 m2 large building complex, is supported by a lighting system with about 100,000 light fittings which ensure passengers' well-being and safety. The control system is based on ABB's I bus KNX technology and was designed by Entelechy Systems.

In such an airport building, the lighting must be switched on 24 hours a day. Nevertheless, there is scope for energy-conserving lighting management as brightness can be reduced, and automatic dimming/ switching can follow patterns of demand. It is possible to make maximum use of daylight, and systems can be automated using timing and occupation programs.

The public areas were divided into zones in order to facilitate implementation. In the busy areas, lighting remains switched on continually at full brightness. In areas which are only frequented during certain hours, for example Arrivals and Departures, the lighting is controlled according to whether the zone is activated or deactivated. In deactivated zones, the light fittings are operated with a preset dimmed value of 10 percent whereas in activated zones, the lighting is on continually at 100 percent brightness. For example, in vacant sanitary facilities, presence sensors will reduce the lighting brightness from 100 to 50 percent, whereas full lighting levels are reactivated when someone enters.

Likewise, lighting and HVAC systems in the offices and service rooms can be controlled by presence sensors as required. This means that comfort and personal needs are fully catered for. Certain lighting in deactivated zones can also be switched on manually.

The Delhi Airport project represents an outstanding reference for KNX. The flexibility of the system, its connectivity with other standards and the option of combining decentralized functions to one central building management hub are major benefits. This latter function is performed using IP routers, KNXnet/IP and Ethernet network. This allows central control of the lighting system and connection of error messaging via interfaces with the Building Management System.

Presence sensor signals are evaluated by the Control Monitoring System of the heating, ventilation and air conditioning installation in order to establish the correct room temperatures. Alarm messages from the fire alarm system activate emergency lighting and the lighting on escape routes and, last but not least, the consumption data computed by KNX can be used for cost control purposes.

The capability of the KNX system is demonstrated by the fact that it can cope with 100,000 light fittings which are switched and dimmed. It offers perfect coordination of functions such as switching and dimming, lighting control, light sensors, brightness sensors, presence sensors, logic control components and central management with visualization.

JOIN KNX UK AT ECOBUILD ON STAND S2430:

SEE HOW KNX FULLY INTEGRATES BUILDING SERVICES TO CREATE ENERGY EFFICIENT SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

At Ecobuild, the KNX UK Association is exhibiting on Stand S2430 in the Energy in Buildings showcase area.

Central to the display will be an innovative, hands-on KNX attraction which clearly demonstrates how the KNX platform integrates all aspects of building and home automation to create fully connected, energy efficient buildings.

At 13.00 hours on Tuesday 1 March visit stand S2430 and see for yourself how the Association and its members are developing building control solutions that put energy efficiency and sustainability first.

THEBEN AG AT ECOBUILD

Theben will be exhibiting for the first time at EcoBuild and their Stand S2425 will be adjacent to the KNX UK Stand. All Theben's major KNX products will be on display including the PIR range, MIX Series Actuators, and VARIA Multifunction display. A new product, the KNX Open Therm Gateway, will also be on show. This DIN rail mounted device will allow Open Therm compatible boilers, of which there are many, to communicate information bi-directionally. This will enable KNX integrators to bring the boiler fully into the KNX network.

Stephen Payne looks forward to welcoming visitors to the stand along with colleague Dieter Kramer who is the Theben HVAC Controls Manager and is an expert on the Open Therm protocol. There will also be a chance to enter a Prize Draw.

ECOBUILD 2011: KNX UNDERLINES ITS PIVOTAL ROLE IN THE SUSTAINABLE BUILT ENVIRONMENT

KNX UK will have a major presence at the Ecobuild 2011 exhibition, to be held at London's ExCeL, 1-3 March 2011. The Association will be exhibiting on stand S2430 in the Energy in Buildings showcase and underlining the contribution of KNX intelligent building products and the KNX Open Standard to the creation of an energy efficient, sustainable built environment.

There will be an innovative, hands-on KNX visitor attraction which will highlight how the KNX platform integrates all aspects of building and home automation to create fully connected, energy efficient buildings. Alongside the Association itself, KNX UK members will also be exhibiting at Ecobuild 2011. These include Theben on Stand S2425.

KNX intelligent building technology is currently celebrating its 20th Anniversary. The UK Association represents manufacturers, systems integrators, distributors and KNX training establishments, with representatives on the stand at the show.

KNX INTRODUCES NEW FAST, EASY TO USE ETS4 SOFTWARE TOOL

To install KNX intelligent building technology in buildings, systems integrators and engineers use the KNX ETS (Engineering Tool Software) under licence. It is a product/manufacturer-independent programming tool that supports KNX installations for all media including twisted pair, radio frequency, Ethernet/IP and power line.

The KNX Association, the developers and owners of the tool, has now launched the ETS4 with many functions. These make it possible to implement KNX projects more easily and quickly. Furthermore, the inclusion of a standardised open interface allows the exchange of ETS data and integration with other applications.

Many suggestions for improvements to be included in the ETS tool were made by manufacturers, systems integrators and users including both KNX professionals and those with little or no KNX knowledge. The result is a state-of-the-art tool that meets the needs of a modern home and building control technology.

The ETS 4 offers a clearly-structured, intuitive user interface to make it easier for those new to KNX and BUS technology. Users will appreciate the design of the interface with its clearer presentation of menus and practical selection lists which allow fast access to data.

A wizard gives step by step project design whilst improvement of the workflow is achieved through drag and drop, error checks and help functions. Fast downloads, an efficient product finder and copying functions, all contribute to the demand for high speed operation.

Software is only good if it is technically up-to-date and the new ETS 4 tool is based on the latest technologies, standards and operating systems. Thanks to the universal data exchange format XML, which can be opened and displayed in any text editor or web browser, all information of a KNX project can be read out - a clear advantage when realising visualisation functions.

The standardised open interface allows the integration of numerous Apps and gives the ability to extend ETS functionality. Online automatic updates ensure that ETS always is kept up-to-date.

KNX CONTROL SOLUTIONS FOR REDUCED ENERGY CONSUMPTION AND IMPROVED END USER COMFORT

Revisions to Approved Document L of the Building Regulations, covering the conservation of fuel and power came into force in October 2010. Practical measures to make buildings more energy efficient will help in cutting emissions as we continue along the path of achieving zero carbon policies. This challenge is opening the door for KNX Open Standard building technology to play an increasingly prominent role in maximising the combined reduction in energy usage by all the key building services.

Whilst today's commercial buildings are far more energy efficient in design than they were even five years ago, there is a limit to the efficiency that can be achieved through traditional design and materials alone. In the past, buildings have been designed as 'insulated elements' from their environment. Indoor comfort - visual, thermal and air quality - has been delivered by over-designing artificial lighting and HVAC systems. Furthermore, the traditional fragmented approach to the management of building services has been another hindrance to achieving optimum energy efficiency. For example, the creation of an energy efficient heating system has frequently ignored other factors such as the need for complementary ventilation and the impact of solar gain.

As well as revisions to Approved Document L, the impact of regulations such as CRCEES and the demands of the European EPBD regulations mean that building managers and owners need to take increasingly more effective measures to realise reduced energy consumptions and avoid financial penalties. The KNX Open Protocol will play a vital role in this and there has never been a greater need for an holistic approach to building control systems which connects and unites all the services, cutting through the boundaries of proprietary technology and maximising energy saving potential.

Central to this is the concept of Bioclimatic Facades through which the facade or skin of a building is used to manage/control the effects of outside environmental factors - solar gains, light, air temperature, air quality, noise and so on. By using this approach buildings can be reintegrated into their environment and benefit from the abundant availability of natural light, solar energy and wind. This approach also creates an energy efficient, comfortable indoor environment which focuses on the demands of the building's occupants and achieves the energy reduction aims of the building's stakeholders.

"The Bioclimatic Facade way of designing is all about smart filtering in the building's envelope in combination with open KNX protocol optimisation," says Adriaan Jongepier, Director Specification & Business Development, of KNX UK member Somfy.

By managing the facade through KNX controlled solar shading, such as blinds and shutters, the indoor environment can be closely controlled and adjusted as required.
In terms of lighting control, the approach is to prioritise the use of natural light and then add-on artificial lighting where and when required. Controls, such as presence the creation of detectors and timers next to, for example, high efficiency LED lighting, will allow the lighting levels required by the user in a totally energy efficient way. There is an abundance of lighting products available using the KNX platform, giving specifiers a wide choice of complementary products.

With HVAC, the main issues within a building are those of solar gain and internal heating loads. By using or blocking the solar energy, in the right way through effective facade management, not only can the result be a reduced capital investment requirement in terms of smaller capacity appliances/boilers, but also operational costs will be reduced.

Using KNX to control devices for integrated facade management and other building services becomes a cost neutral investment as energy savings can be made immediately to offset any investment.

Through KNX, facade products are integrated seamlessly with other building services and their performance can be monitored using smart metering. The information can be diagnosed via the internet or LAN to provide a complete real time picture of energy consumption and appliances can be adjusted and managed accordingly.

CISCO SYSTEMS CONNECTS WITH KNX FOR SMART METERING AND SMART GRID

Cisco Systems Inc. has become a member of the KNX Association, the creator and owner of KNX technology - the worldwide STANDARD for all applications in home and building control. Cisco Systems is a worldwide leader in network based energy solutions including the delivery of highly secure communications infrastructures for the rapidly developing Smart Metering & Smart Grid markets. The company sees the KNX protocol as playing a major role in the future success of these technologies.

Mr Godehardt Schneider of Siemens AG and President of the KNX Association, said: "With the membership of Cisco, KNX has made another major step forward in the US market. This will result in continued growth in the use of KNX technology there and is further recognition of KNX as the WORLDWIDE standard for home and building control."

Frank Van Steenwinkel, Senior Director, Cisco Systems Smart Connected Communities, commented: "KNX has emerged globally as the ISO/IEC standard for home and building automation. We can facilitate the convergence between IT and home & building control, helping to move KNX to the next level of network infrastructure. We are therefore proud to join the KNX Association."

Cisco will develop the KNX access to its applications on the network, such as energy management applications and advanced solutions including the Personal Virtual Office which allows users to reserve an office "on the fly" using Cisco's Unified Communications infrastructure. It also allows control of the KNX environment in areas such as HVAC and lighting and can personalize the office with Cisco's digital signage and collaboration tools - which in an automation environment has not been done before.

The Cisco Smart+Connected Communities initiative is already helping transform physical communities into connected communities that realize sustainable economic growth, a better quality of life, a greener footprint and reduced government expenses.

Cisco Systems has become the KNX Association's 200th member worldwide, highlighting both the global strength of the organisation and its rapid penetration in the United States.
Now, there are more than 200 KNX members in 30 countries, clearly showing that KNX technology, as laid down in the ISO/IEC 14543-3 standard, is a truly global standard.

20th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

Great 20th Anniversary Celebrations on 20.10.10 at Somfy in London and a tremendous turn out from the media, the building services industry as well as KNX UK friends and colleagues. Congratulations to Tim Pendleton from The Better Blind Company for winning the ETS4 Professional. Tim (right) picks up his prize from KNX UK Guest Speaker Ian Ellis, President, BCIA.

ESSENTIAL INSTALL LIVE

Essential Install Live! at Eastlands in Manchester attracted specifiers, systems integrators and Association members, with the KNX UK CPD presentation proving very popular.

CONGRATULATIONS GRAEME

Well done to Graeme Fyfe of the Blackwood Partnership, Consulting Engineers of Edinburgh, who won the KNX competition which featured earlier this year in BSEE magazine. "Extremely pleased and surprised!" was Graeme's reaction when presented with his iPod-Touch by KNX UK Association President Iain Gordon outside Napier University in Edinburgh. Graeme is also studying there for a post-graduate MSc in Energy & Environmental Engineering and, of course, is a regular reader of BSEE. At work, he is heavily involved with electrical and mechanical building services and is familiar with the benefits of KNX intelligent building technology.

NEW GUIDE TO RESIDENTIAL APPLICATIONS

KNX UK has published a new Guide to Residential applications of KNX intelligent building technology.

The Guide provides information on how KNX products are being used in new and refurbishment projects throughout the residential market. It highlights just some of the solutions available and is a great introduction to the advantages of specifying KNX products.

WAGO LINKS KNX WORLD WITH ETHERNET

The availability of global communication "without" speed restrictions has paved the road to success in the last few years for ETHERNET to be used as the preferred medium for automation systems. KNX UK Association member WAGO, with its KNX IP controller 750-849, offers a product that links the KNX world with ETHERNET. Running WAGO Pro CAA software allows for a freely programmable KNX IP terminal device.

The new WAGO KNX/TP1 module 753-646 provides the link to KNX Twisted Pair networks. Combined with the KNX IP controller provides router functionality enabling remote programming of the TP network via ETS software over the ETHERNET network or WAN.

WAGO supports an extensive list of network protocols such as BACnet, MODBUS/TCP/IP and many more on its controllers. Connecting the KNX TP1 module allows TP devices to communicate into higher level networks or combine with lower level devices such as DALI, EnOcean, MP Bus with the WAGO gateway modules, as well as discrete digital and analogue devices. No longer do HVAC and lighting solutions require separate controllers.

KNX IP and BACnet controllers have integral RTC (real time clock) and WEB server, allowing remote access and control of the process via any network terminal running, such as Internet Explorer. Many free downloadable Function Blocks are available from the WAGO WEBsite with application notes to make programming easy and stress free.

WAGO, with its 16ch digital modules, offer the most compact devices on the market, the modular approach allows users to mix and match from a choice of over 150 modules of Series 750 with the added speed and security of CageClamp terminations for the field (device) wiring. Modular wiring from the WAGO WINSTA range offers plug and play installation solutions.

OUTDOOR PIR SENSOR FOR KNX SYSTEMS

KNX pioneer Theben has introduced an outdoor PIR sensor to the UK market, enabling integrators to create ever more comprehensive systems.

The two-channel Sphinx will control fluorescent, halogen and incandecent lamps and offers a detection up to 30m away over a field of up to 300o. It will also detect anyone trying to creep along a wall under it.

Angled mounts for corners and remote controllers are also available.

Find out more about Theben's KNX range by visiting www.timeguard.com

KNX CONSULTANTS - OFFERING A UNIQUE SERVICE

Ben Lewis' company, KNX Consultants, is a unique member of KNX UK. Using his 30 years + experience in the electronics industry, including 10 years of KNX based project activity, Ben provides a range of independent consultancy and training services not available from any other member.

As a KNX Partner and a certified KNX Tutor himself, Ben provides services to KNX Training Provider Ivory Egg and conducts KNX Certification training on their behalf at the company's West Sussex HQ. And that is just the start of the story because, as Ben says: "Getting KNX Certification is almost the equivalent of passing your driving test - it's just the beginning and it's the time you spend at the wheel afterwards that really teaches you to drive." So Ben's second major role is to offer support to systems integrators when they undertake their initial installations and feel they need his experienced eye and depth of KNX knowledge to assist with any project. "It's almost a mentoring role - and one from which both KNX UK members and non-members can benefit."

Further down the line, systems integrators may find that as their business grows, they need short term support on integration work when times are busy or to cover for staff shortages whilst looking to recruit new team members. At times like these, once again KNX Consultants can step into the breach and bridge the resource shortage.

"Then of course, it's almost come full circle and systems integrators' new team members will need KNX Certification training - so it's back to one of the KNX Association's approved Training Centres, such as Ivory Egg," he says.

In addition, KNX Consultants can also provide one day introductory KNX training courses on site at anyone's premises using portable training rigs - it's great way to get a quick introduction to KNX for anyone from systems integrators to end users - even those not yet using KNX but considering its potential for their business.

Another aspect of KNX Consultants' services is sub-contract design activity whereby Ben and his team will provide a full project installation specification for a KNX system and its installation requirements. This service can be particularly useful to systems integrators who specialise in other fields such as Custom AV Installation (such as CEDIA members)or Interior Architecture, but see the demand to include KNX capability within their portfolio. When undertaking project activity, KNX Consultants concentrates its resources on the delivery of system design documentation and commissioning services, whilst leaving the procurement and delivery of the hardware implementation firmly in the domain of its client, the systems integrator. Most importantly, KNX Consultants is independent of any manufacturer and so any product recommendations are generic and are based on their suitability to fulfil specific requirements whilst taking client preference into account. Consequently, the client can feel in complete control and confident in the integrity of its relationship with KNX Consultants.

KNX Consultants' ultimate objective, of course, is to help ensure that KNX systems delivered by its clients are of the highest standard. Ben's services are helping the KNX community to grow by helping to build a pool of KNX people, trained to the highest standards. His company provides the ideal partnership for KNX capability development amongst KNX UK integrator members and non-members alike.

Contact: Ben Lewis, 3 Knapp Ridge, Ledbury, HR8 1BJ, e-mail: info@knxconsultants.com, www.knxconsultants.com Phone: 0845 009 0438.

OPENING DOORS AT CEDIA

KNX UK's participation at the CEDIA Home Technology Event at London Excel opened the door to many home automation specialists yet to familiarise themselves with the advantages of the KNX open standard.

The Home Technology Event saw KNX UK involved at a number of different levels. Not only was the Association's stand a centre of attraction for visitors, but also KNX technology was highlighted on a number of different stands including Theben, situated right next door and manned by our very own Stephen Payne and colleagues.

The KNX CIBSE CPD was also successfully presented on two occasions and attracted a large number of delegates to the centre's Conference Theatre. Overall, participation at the Home Technology Event fulfilled its aim of creating new market opportunities for KNX technology in the home automation market and also helping to forge closer links with CEDIA.

OPEN PROTOCOL FOR HAGER

Hager is a new KNX UK member with its Tebis bus based building services control system. The system is interoperable with more than 2000 approved KNX products from more than 150 manufacturers.

Says Paul Collins, Product Manager at Hager: "By becoming members of KNX our Tebis system and products can be used in larger more complex buildings. It can form part of a system and leaves end users the choice of which products to use. For simpler systems customers can still use Tebis as an easy to install and commission proprietary system using the TX100 programming tool."

For further information contact: Hager Ltd, Hortonwood 50, Hortonwood, Telford, TF1 7FT. Telephone 0870 240 2400. Email technical@hager.co.uk.

A CONSULTANT'S VIEW

Alan Murphy MIEE, CIBSE) and Honorary Secretary for CIBSE West Midlands Region is a partner in Richard Allen Consultants in Bromsgrove sees sustainability as fast becoming one of the base requirements in all construction projects....and KNX has a role to play.

The KNX Open Standard offers many advantages compared to other protocols in terms of its shear flexibility, range of products/accessories and the fact that the open protocol means almost anything is possible in terms of building control. Energy saving is an important aspect of KNX especially in the commercial environment. Its control options are so varied and so flexible that just about any scenario for occupancy based control can be provided.

In the domestic environment, KNX can sell its self based upon the benefits it offers by enhancing the comfort and control of the home or office environment. With an iPhone in the hand and an IP gateway within a KNX installation, one can control all automated functions remotely and also monitor the status of heating systems, intruder alarms and so on.

Today cost is of course a major factor for clients and there are also plenty of things that can be done within the KNX installation design and configuration to keep costs under control. For example, lighting circuits can be simply switched with KNX rather than dimmed; the switches themselves and other user interface devices can be from budget ranges or conventional push-buttons can be used with push button interfaces and so on.

Also with KNX, the advantage is that once a system is installed, expansion and re-engineering costs are fair - particularly when alternative conventional solutions are no cheaper when additional services such as HVAC, facade control and sensors are added.

BCIA EVENT SUCCESS

The highly successful BCIA Awards evening held in Coventry during May was a great success for KNX UK too.

KNX UK was one of the leading sponsors of the event, hosting the pre - Awards Dinner champagne reception and - most importantly - the after dinner chocolates! (Thanks Tara!). There was really no getting away from the striking KNX logo which dominated a large area of the venue and some of the most important and influential members of the controls industry who attended the eveny can't have faied to notice.

KNX UK was represented at the evcent by several Board Members who took the opportunity to network vigorously with the large numbers of attendees and establish some important connections. KNX UK President Iain Gordon commented: "It was a really good event for us and for the second year running we have put KNX firmly on the map with the controls industry."

KNX HIGHLIGHTED AT CONNECTFEST

The Building Control Industry Association's ConnectFest held at their Members' Conference on May 13 was based around the KNX Standard for Home and Building Control.

This open protocols for building controls allows specifiers and installers to integrate KNX certified products from many different manufacturers within a project. Not being locked into one particular proprietary standard or a specific manufacturer's products has a number of advantages in terms of flexibility and future proofing installations.

The ConnectFest event demonstrated to BCIA members exactly how this worked with representatives from different KNX compliant product showed the advantages and indeed simplicity of this "open" approach.

WAGO OFFERS NEW KNX IP CONTROLLER

The availability of global communication without speed restrictions has paved the road to success in the last few years for Ethernet to be used as the preferred medium for automation systems. WAGO, with its KNX IP controller 750-849, offers a product that links the KNX world with Ethernet running WAGO Pro CAA software allowing for a freely programmable KNX IP terminal device.

The new WAGO KNX/TP1 module 753-646 provides the link to KNX Twisted Pair networks. Combined with the KNX IP controller, it provides router functionality enabling remote programming of the TP network via KNX ETS 3 software over the Ethernet network or WAN.

WAGO supports an extensive list of network protocols such as BACnet, MODBUS/TCP/IP and many more on its controllers. Connecting the KNX TP1 module allows TP devices to communicate into higher level networks or combine with lower level devices such as DALI, EnOcean, MP Bus with the WAGO gateway modules, as well as discrete digital and analogue devices. No longer need HVAC and lighting solutions require separate controllers.

KNX IP and BACnet controllers have integral RTC (real time clock) and WEB server, allowing remote access and control of the process via any network terminal, running such as Internet Explorer. There are many free downloadable Function Blocks from the WAGO WEBsite with application notes to make programming easy and stress free.

WAGO with its 16ch digital modules are the most compact devices on the market. The modular approach allows mixing and matching from a choice of over 150 modules of Series 750 with the added speed and security of CageClamp terminations for the field (device) wiring. Modular wiring from the WAGO WINSTA range offers plug and play installation solutions.

BAULOGIC SEES BRIGHT FUTURE FOR KNX

Specialising in the design, installation and support of intelligent building controls for residential and commercial projects, new KNX UK member Baulogic is promoting the KNX standard as a better alternative to limited proprietary lighting control systems.

Baulogic's Director, Mark Gedrych, says: "We've joined KNX UK because we believe in the KNX standard and see KNX as the future, not only for commercial developments, but also for residential projects. Technology is advancing quickly, as are the needs of consumers, and high-end applications that we once saw only in luxury hotels are now making their way into residential developments. At the same time, facilities managers and estate managers are looking to cutting-edge technology to enable greater control and monitoring of their sites, to reduce energy consumption and costs. KNX products bring that level of sophistication."

Baulogic is also championing KNX because of its flexibility and also because the KNX standard spans such a broad range of applications, it allows a building's cabling to be far less complicated.

Visit www.baulogic.com for more information

GENERAL ASSEMBLY REPORT

KNX UK President Iain Gordon represented us at the recent KNX Association General Assembly held at the Atomium in Brussels. Iain delivered a 20 minute report based on KNX UK's activities in the past year and our on-going promotion of KNX technology to the media.

Iain also highlighted the high level of specific literature that has been developed for the UK market, including the CIBSE CPD and the Consultants Guide. The potential growth of the KNX market within the UK was also underlined, with Iain openly inviting all manufacturers to have a voice within the UK through the KNX UK Association.

KNX INTRODUCES NEW FAST, EASY TO USE ETS4 SOFTWARE TOOL

Building automation engineers throughout the world already use the KNX ETS (Engineering Tool Software) as a product/manufacturer-independent programming tool when applying KNX intelligent building technology to increase the energy efficiency of buildings. The ETS tool supports KNX installations for all media including twisted pair, radio frequency, Ethernet/IP and power line. The KNX Association has now completely redesigned the tool and included many new functions in the new generation ETS 4. Presented as a Beta version at the April 2010 Light and Building Exhibition in Frankfurt, ETS 4 makes it possible to implement KNX projects more easily and quickly. Furthermore, the use of a standardised open interface allows the exchange of ETS data and integration with other applications.

The new ETS 4 offers a clearly-structured, intuitive user interface to make it easier for those new to KNX technology. Many suggestions for the improvement of the ETS tool were made by manufacturers, systems integrators and users including both KNX professionals and those with little or no KNX knowledge. The result is a state-of-the-art tool that meets the needs of a modern home and building control technology.

Newcomers to BUS technology will appreciate the design of the new user interface. Menus have been individually updated and their presentation clearly improved. Practical selection lists allow fast access to further data. A wizard permits step by step project design whilst improvement of the workflow is achieved through drag and drop, error checks and help functions. Fast downloads, an efficient product finder and copying functions, all contribute to meeting today's demand for speed of operation.

Software is only good if it is technically up-to-date and the new ETS 4 tool is based on the latest technologies, standards and operating systems. Thanks to the universal data exchange format XML, which can be opened and displayed in any text editor or web browser, all information of a KNX project can be read out - a clear advantage when realising visualisation functions. The standardised open interface allows the integration of numerous apps and offers the possibility to extend ETS functionality. Online automatic updates ensure that ETS always is kept up-to-date.

The official launch for ETS 4 is scheduled for October 2010.

20 YEARS OF KNX AT LIGHT+BUILDING 2010

Light+Building 2010: KNX is once again underlining its leading role as the worldwide STANDARD for home and building control (ISO/IEC 14543). Under the headline "20 years as the worldwide STANDARD", the KNX Association will be exhibiting at a total of four different locations at the Light+Building trade fair in Frankfurt, Germany (11-16 April 2010). At the same time, more than 100 KNX member companies will be presenting their latest KNX applications at their own stands at the fair.

KNX TOP Event: 20-year jubilee show and KNX Award Ceremony (in the Forum building). To mark the 20th anniversary of KNX/EIB, the KNX TOP Event 2010 - including the KNX Award Ceremony 2010 and the world premiere of the new ETS4 - will take place on Tuesday 13 April 2010 at 6.30 pm in "Forum" (between halls 3 and 5, entrance by the Maritim hotel). This international event, with participants from more than 50 countries, is being organised in cooperation with Messe Frankfurt, and will feature a wide range of top entertainment acts. Entry is free of charge. Registration at www.knx.org/topevent is required.

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NEW CONSULTANTS GUIDE TO KNX

The KNX UK Association's definitive guide to KNX intelligent building technology with their 24 page Consultants Guide. It sets out precisely for M&E consultants and specifiers, detailed information on the KNX standard and the applications of KNX technology. It will assist building professionals in making informed choices on the use of KNX within any building services project.

The KNX Consultants Guide looks at the challenges faced by consultants in delivering sustainable building services designs and optimising the energy consumption of buildings. It goes on to discuss steps to good practice in the specification and application of building control systems. The advantages of open protocol and the KNX Worldwide Standard for Home and Building Control are illustrated through examples of KNX bus cable specifications, system layouts and KNX reference projects.

The philosophy of KNX is to bring together different manufacturers' products on one bus network. The Consultants Guide explains not only the different types of products that can be integrated seamlessly, but also spells out the advantages of this approach to consultants, systems integrators and building owners alike.

WORLDSKILLS WINNER'S ROAD TO SUCCESS WITH KNX

A demonstration of the versatility and flexibility of KNX technology helped Richard Sagar, a young electrician with Eden Electrics in Scotland, to become a Gold Medal winner at the 2009 WorldSkills Competition held in Calgary, Canada.

Having been out of international competition for many years, UKSkills decided to re-enter the WorldSkills competition. After a careful selection process, Richard, who had already won the 2008 UK SkillElectric competition, was selected to represent the UK in the Electrical Installations category. The Freestyle project in this category required an electrical installation using tools and materials from the entrant's home country and KNX UK Association member Siemens agreed to be the sponsors.

The installation to be designed was based upon an imaginary property in a remote area. A gate at the main entrance required a motion detector to open and close it automatically. The owners also wanted to include driveway and garage lights to come on automatically once motion was detected. In addition, a sub-switchboard was to be installed in the garage, with the owner also requiring a power socket outlet for portable plug-in appliances.

David Thomas from the ECA who was Richard's appointed Training Manager for the event, was certain that the best solution would be to use KNX as the underlying technology. Before the event both he and Richard undertook KNX Partner training with Ivory Egg, one of the certified KNX Training establishments in the UK.

Using all the KNX skills he acquired, Richard created the Gold Award winning installation. It was a remarkable achievement as David, Education & Training Manager at the ECA, explains: "To have been out of international WorldSkills competition for eight years and then for Richard to win the Gold Award by competing successfully against entrants from countries such as Japan was a great achievement. Our European competitors were also surprised that we decided to use KNX. For me, however, its simplicity and versatility made the ideal choice for this project. No mechanical controls were needed - just a simple bus installation."

Following the 2009 success, the focus is now on the 2011 WorldSkills event in London where the KNX protocol is expected to play a major role in the Electrical Installation category.

HIGHLY SUCCESSFUL ABB PARLIAMENTARY RECEPTION

KNX UK member ABB held a very successful Parliamentary Reception on the House of Commons Terrace at the end of 2009. The event was attended by a number of high profile influential political figures and decision makers including John Prescott, Climate Change Rapporteur for the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe; Paddy Tipping MP, Chair of the House of Commons Energy and Climate Change Select Committee as well as many members of other key Select Committees and All-Party Parliamentary Groups.

Mike Hall MP hosted the event and highlighted ABB's work in his constituency and the positive impact that the company has had over the whole of the UK. The event helped to fulfil a number of ABB communications and marketing objectives including the development of some new and potentially valuable relationships. The Reception also successfully showcased ABB's wide range of technical expertise and track record across a number of policy areas.

KNX UK Board Member Gareth Rowlands, ABB's Intelligent Building Team Manager, was able to establish and cement relationships with key stakeholders including policy advisors at the Department of Energy and Climate Change. "This was a great event for everyone in attendance and allowed us to promote both ABB and KNX to a large gathering of relevant Parliamentarians and stakeholders," said Gareth.

KNX UK CPD COURSES READY TO BOOK

Following acceptance into the CIBSE CPD Directory, KNX UK is now set up to arrange CPD courses over the forthcoming months. If you are interested in finding out more, please contact us admin@knxuk.org or go to the Training/Workshop section of this website and download the file from the Workshop section.

THEBEN'S ROOM CONTROLLER WINS DESIGN AWARD

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. It is now on display at the red dot design museum in Essen.

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 an elegant 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 after all, or presence detectors indicate that a room is unoccupied.

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

FINGER TIP INTELLIGENT BUILDING CONTROL WITH KNX TOUCH PANEL

The Busch-ComfortTouch panel from KNX UK member ABB provides sophisticated intelligent building control in an easy-to-use, one touch display. It combines state-of-the-art control with energy efficiency and security features, providing users with full control of all living areas and building functions from one location. It is suitable for hotels, housing and commercial properties. Once installed the touch panel will work in tandem with ABB's KNX intelligent installation system as a source of control within a building.

The ComfortTouch panel provides single point of control for many functions including lighting, security, temperature and humidity. An intuitive colour coding system that distinguishes different aspects of the building makes the system easier to use for those with little or no experience.

Users can operate or dim the lights, adjust blinds, regulate the room temperature or create scenes from a combination of the functions listed. For further ease of use, all functions can also be controlled remotely where there is line-of-sight between the panel and the remote control pad.

The Busch-ComfortTouch panel also provides access to energy consumption data, enabling property owners to monitor and reduce energy use by identifying areas for improved lighting efficiency, energy consumption and security.

The security function makes it possible to simulate presence within buildings, applying realistic living patterns even when nobody is there. The security system is designed to detect when doors or windows have been left unlocked and can even detect breakages. Once an alarm has been raised, an alert is sent to the user's mobile phone informing the user of the problem. The panel can also be linked to external monitoring systems.

With a built in MP3 player, The Busch-ComfortTouch makes it possible to create audio files or play films. Users can monitor the weather, look at the latest traffic reports, track up-to-date news, access their e-mails and even use the panel as an alarm clock. The panel can also be used to leave voice or written messages for other users to view.

FACADE MANAGEMENT WITH KNX

Charlotte Townend of Somfy gives us an insight into the world of facade management and KNX.

It is estimated that in the UK only around 2% of solar shading in buildings is automated. Yet, automation brings better control of building's lighting and ventilation as well as making better use of solar energy. Automation can also reduce the energy used for a building's lighting, heating and cooling. Inside, occupants benefit from maximising the use of available daylight, without being subjected to discomfort due to direct solar radiation or excessive contrasts in light levels.

In bioclimatic architecture, the comfort and well-being of the occupant are the most important factors. The UK's variable climate does not provide the conditions needed to ensure thermal comfort for occupants all year long. Therefore there is a need to heat or cool buildings to allow for these changes in conditions and to achieve the best interaction between climates, buildings and the occupants' needs. In schools, for example, many factors can influence the quality of the learning environment including lighting, natural daylight levels and the elimination of glare. All of these factors need to be addressed and work in harmony to create conditions that are conducive to effective learning, a child's development, health and work-rate.

To achieve such aims, and whatever the type of building, effective controls of facade applications including blinds, shutters, curtains and windows must be in place. There are many decisions to be made regarding the specification of the most appropriate controls and how they should integrate with other building services.

For example, in order to make the most of energy savings using natural lighting, the use of artificial lighting sources also needs to be considered and how they harmonize with natural light. Artificial light sources need to be correctly regulated using the most appropriate types of programmed timer systems and presence/movement detectors.

External building walls are the focal point and the link between the interior and exterior environments. This link can be managed by using different types of facade control systems. Local controls within a room utilise manual independent switches, whilst zonal controls can be installed to cover all the sunshades in a predetermined area. More sophisticated, user-friendly software based open systems can interface with lighting, HVAC, security, AV and other building services functions for a fully integrated and flexible approach. Advanced facade management employs a single programmable computer module and uses data collected from weather sensors to determine when and where sunshades should be automatically deployed.

Real time climate data can be fed to a smart building management system to contribute to overall energy savings of a building. By tracking the sun, blinds can be automatically positioned to sun elevation, building latitude during the day and every day throughout the year. Many leading manufacturers such as ABB and Somfy have developed a range of products which provide sun tracking and shadow management.

KNX certified products are available for the automatic control of shading devices.

Through KNX, facade products can be simply integrated seamlessly with other building control systems - critical at a time when the need for energy efficient buildings is now greater than ever before. Facades, HVAC systems, lighting controls, smart metering, emergency lighting, alarms & door entry systems, occupancy simulation - all can be harmonized and controlled by the KNX open protocol. All building services functions can then be monitored, programmed and diagnosed via the internet or LAN.

KNX CPD LAUNCHED IN CIBSE DIRECTORY

KNX UK's application for entry into the CIBSE Directory of CPD Course Providers has now been accepted. The full range of KNX CPD courses are now listed in the CIBSE Directory for the next two years.

The KNX UK Association represents manufacturers, systems integrators, distributors as well as training providers for KNX intelligent building technology. Iain Gordon, President of KNX UK comments: "The acceptance of our KNX CPD courses by CIBSE is a major breakthrough for us, clearly highlighting KNX as a vital building services discipline. The opportunity for engineers to further their knowledge of KNX as part of their Continuous Professional Development will give the technologies and protocol behind KNX a wider professional audience. It will help KNX to achieve wider and quicker acceptance by our most critical target audience - building services professionals."

The KNX UK course categories in the August 2009 CIBSE CPD Directory are:
A sustainable Approach to Future Proofing; Advanced Building Controls;
Advanced Building Controls and Building; Management Systems;
Building Controls;
Building Controls Integration;
Building Energy Management Systems (BEMS);
Building Management System;
Control Systems and Integration;
Controls;
Energy Efficient Controls;
Energy Management and Controls;
Integration of Building Services;
Intelligent Building Controls;
Intelligent Buildings;
Lighting & Lighting Management;
Lighting Controls;
Lighting Controls & Management;
Lighting Controls & Management Systems;
Energy Efficiency.

All speakers from KNX UK are highly experienced in their specialised fields with relevant professional qualifications. Their target audiences for the courses, which last two hours, include consultants, contractors, developers, architects and other interested parties who would like to understand more about the KNX bus technology. The CPD can be delivered across all competence levels and is mobile so that it can be delivered free of charge at the offices of the interested parties.

KNX UK will issue attendance certificates to course delegates with the endorsement that attendance can contribute towards their CIBSE CPD requirement. Any organisation or individual wanting more information or wishing to organise/join a KNX CPD course should contact Tara Gartland, KNX UK Administration admin@knxuk.org
P O Box 4082, Bracknell, Berkshire, RG42 9EQ, Tel: +44 (0) 845 869 5908.

SHOWING ENERGY CONSUMPTION WITH KNX SMART METERING

With the continued development of new KNX products from various manufacturers, the ability to record energy consumption data and to process this data for accounting and billing software products is now readily available.

Connection of the metering devices to the KNX bus system and coupling to IP allows the display and processing of the data on a touch panel. The visualization can display the recorded and current data of every metering point. The conversion of the data with export functionality to Excel can be achieved with the push of a button and allows post-processing for the various accounting and billing software products currently available.

KNX metering products can record data such as heat consumption using heat meters; power consumption (different energy meters, flexible with IR interface); water consumption (water meter with KNX connection); fill level meter for tank content (oil, water, liquids)

The development of a worldwide standardized system to meter electronically the consumption of different commodities and to convert data for external post
processing offers a number of advantages. For example, customers can get an overview of the current consumption data at a push of a button and can identify irregularities faster and therefore save time, money and energy. A number of KNX manufacturers are involved in on-going development of meters.

REDUCED ENERGY CONSUMPTION BY USING KNX BASED HOME AND BUILDING CONTROL SYSTEMS

Studies published by the international KNX Association of Brussels show how networked home and building control based on KNX allows up to 50% energy savings. As buildings account for 40% of total energy consumption, they offer considerable energy saving potential. KNX meets the requirements of the top Energy Performance Class for building automation as embodied in EN 15232. This means that the technology is ideally suited to fulfilling the tighter energy consumption requirements for buildings. Through intelligent control of building system technology with KNX, the energy consumption of a building can be halved.

The Institute for Building and Energy Systems at Biberach University of Applied Sciences, Germany has undertaken research into the potential energy savings that can be achieved using modern electrical installation systems such as KNX. This concludes that Intelligent control of building systems reduces energy consumption and the associated operating costs many times over:

"Particularly automation functions, which present a high degree of energy-saving potential by combining various individual trades, can today only be achieved using modern building system technology based on bus and communication systems."

Another research project, conducted at Bremen University of Applied Sciences, shows the extent to which energy savings can be achieved. The Centre for Informatics and Media Technologies was fitted with KNX controls and equipment for regulating heating and lighting. The data collected was evaluated, and comparisons made between "normal" operation and "automation" mode. The building has a specific energy consumption of 60-75 kWh/m2a. Two identical classrooms were selected as test rooms. One was fitted with a conventional installation, and the second with KNX control.

Based on a four-year series of measurements, the use of KNX control was found to reduce energy consumption by up to 50%. It is therefore also clear that the expenditure in building automation system has quick payback. The university calculated that, with an annual energy consumption of 230,000 kWh for lighting alone, the investment would pay itself back after just one year with a KNX bus control.

Ultimately it is not just the owners/operators of a building who benefit from the reduced energy consumption - it is the environment too.

In summary, KNX can allow the following energy savings to be made:

up to 40% with KNX shutter control
up to 50% with KNX single room control
up to 60% with KNX lighting control
up to 60% with KNX ventilation control

KNX UK ASSOCIATION WELCOMES SOMFY

Somfy Limited is the latest major manufacturer to become a member of KNX UK, the Association representing manufacturers, systems integrators, distributors, users and training establishments for KNX technology in the United Kingdom.

Somfy is a world leading manufacturer of motors and control systems for automated solar protection and security applications within commercial buildings and domestic premises. The company has been established in the UK since 1969 and has offices in London and Yeadon, near Leeds. Somfy Limited is part of the worldwide Somfy International Group with its HQ in France and some 4700 worldwide employees working within 52 subsidiaries.

Somfy provides controls for many different products from roller shutters and interior blinds to patio awnings, garage doors, curtains and gates. Sales exceed over one million motors in European markets such as France or Germany where roller shutters are very widely specified. However, the fast growing UK market offers great sales potential and developments such as Part L of the Building Regulations are creating new sales opportunities for the company.

By offering KNX controls with its open platform protocol, Somfy provides a vital service to the market place including support for systems ntegrators. "Membership of KNX UK and use of the KNX platform within our products will be important to our continued growth of the UK market," says Ty Saville, Commercial Controls Manager for Somfy in the UK.

"We are delighted to welcome on board such a well known and progressive company as Somfy," says KNX UK President Iain Gordon. "Our member numbers continue to grow as major manufacturers and other organisations using KNX technology recognise the benefits of KNX UK membership in promoting awareness in the UK building market."

ENTECH AWARDED MAJOR KNX CONTRACT AT BBC'S MEDIACITYUK

EnTech, the Stockport-based intelligent building control specialist, has announced a significant contract win to deliver its technology solutions on phase one of the prestigious MediaCityUK development.

Awarded by NG Bailey, the UK's leading providers of building services and mechanical and electrical, solutions, the contract will see EnTech providing the design and commissioning of KNX intelligent building control solutions to three buildings, all of which will be occupied by the BBC, the 'anchor tenant' at the 200 acre site. Situated at Manchester's Salford Quays, MediaCityUK will be the UK's first purpose-built MediaCityUK. Scheduled for completion in 2010, the site will bring 1.5 billion pounds to the local economy and will be internationally recognised as a world-class hub for the media and creative industries.

SITECO WELCOMED AS LARGEST LIGHTING MANUFACTURER IN UK TO ADOPT KNX

Siteco Limited, the world leading manufacturer of technical indoor and outdoor lighting systems, has joined the KNX UK Association. In terms of UK turnover, Siteco is the largest lighting manufacturer to make KNX its preferred protocol for lighting and associated controls. Siteco joins a fast growing UK membership, expected to top 50 by the end of 2008.

As a company renowned for quality and innovation, Siteco has been quick to seize the opportunity to embrace KNX. Dave Fear, Siteco's Technical Director, commented: "Open systems have paved the way for the ultimate in consumer choice in all aspects of our lives, from DVD players to PC software. They offer real choice of manufacturer, technical reliability and functionality. We see open systems as the only way forward in building controls and KNX as the superlative choice in open systems. The company also recognises the energy saving potential offered by KNX and would like to enhance this with their unique fixed and moveable daylight shading and control systems."

Iain Gordon, President of KNX UK, comments: "We are delighted to welcome Siteco as a member of KNX UK. The company is renowned within the worldwide lighting industry for its innovative, high quality lighting solutions. Siteco's announcement that KNX is its protocol of choice for lighting control underlines how quickly the technology is being adopted by major manufacturers throughout the world."