KNX IoT enables secure and interoperable building automation through IPv6 networks such as Thread and Wi-Fi, simplifying installation via ETS and supporting energy-efficient smart buildings.
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The KNX standard has been used in buildings for decades to connect devices using a standard communication protocol. With the continuous expansion of the building IoT, the KNX Association has created the KNX IoT standard, which brings secure wireless and wired connections to KNX. The KNX IoT standard securely connects building devices using IPv6 while providing backward compatibility with existing KNX wired networks. Like Matter, KNX IoT is also an application layer protocol that supports any IPv6 network, including Wi-Fi, Thread, and Ethernet. By leveraging IPv6, KNX IoT provides built-in network security and easier Internet connectivity.Another key aspect of KNX IoT is support for the ETS configuration tool. ETS supports over 8,000 products from more than 500 manufacturers, enabling installers to map and plan the configuration of buildings. The tool then programs each device to be installed in the building according to the installation plan, significantly reducing the complexity of new installations.Many building systems require the deployment of multiple battery-powered devices. Thread provides a low-power mesh network that ensures low-power operation and robust connectivity. Since Thread is based on IPv6, border router devices can easily connect Thread devices to the Internet. By utilizing Thread and Wi-Fi networks, developers have a complete wireless connectivity solution for the entire building.NXP is collaborating with the KNX Association to develop an open-source KNX IoT stack that fully supports ETS. Today, KNX IoT over Thread examples can be obtained using a closed-source stack from the Application Code Hub. Based on these examples, NXP’s extensive wireless product portfolio provides solutions for Thread and Wi-Fi connected devices. As shown in the figure below, NXP’s MCX W71 wireless MCU supports Thread-connected devices such as actuators or light bulbs. The RW612 tri-band Wi-Fi 6 MCU provides Thread and Wi-Fi connectivity. In the example below, the RW612 acts as a Thread border router, connecting Thread sensors to a computer connected to the Internet via Wi-Fi.
NXP’s KNX IoT demonstration uses the RW612 as a Thread border router to connect the MCX W71 KNX IoT over Thread sensor to a PC running KNX IoT via Wi-Fi.With new energy efficiency regulations and higher tenant expectations, building owners are seeking innovative solutions to make buildings smarter and more interconnected. KNX IoT will help realize the vision of smart, efficient buildings through secure and interoperable device connections.