Home automation with LCN
Archived post from 2011, recovered from my old blog. The technology described here is probably out of date. Original at the Internet Archive.
I always wanted to develop an inexpensive yet powerful home automation system. I actually spent a lot of late night hours during last two years learning, designing and prototyping both hardware and software to build intelligent modules.
However at some point of time I realized that I will not be able to spend enough time to finish everything before I actually need the system in my newly built house. Also I figured out that there are tons of issues I would need to deal with implementing the system and at many of them are really hard to address. From some technical issues like interferences resistance, shock protections to some legal and responsibility questions. Consider a fire accident. Not certified devices connected to the mains could be used as an argument by insurance company to avoid compensation payment.
I finally decided to rely on out-of-the box products available on the market. A friend of mine convinced me to choose LCN developed by Issendorff Mikroelektronik GmbH from Germany (none of the LCN websites look impressing ;)). It offers a large set of modules which can be combined to suit your needs. There are both concealed and DIM rail mounted modules including sensors, actuators, touch panels and more. Input, outputs and panels must be connected to logical modules and those exchange messages between each other from basic commands to more sophisticated features like light scenes ortemperature regulation. Logical modules requires 4 core cables – one extra line is used for inter-module communication.
There is also a dedicated module which allows you to connect a PC and program and monitor your network. LCN offers a starter kit LCN-MKO which contains a few modules, a licensed LCN-PRO software for PC and documentation. All boundled in a handy suitcase. Unfortunately the kit is not cheap. And thats only the beginning of your costs…
But intelligent home is not only about increasing costs. When you consider comfort, security and safety, flexibility and economy then it all starts to make sense.