Oslo, Norway --- (METERING.COM) --- September 6, 2010 - A new compact module complying with the KNX-RF (Konnex over RF) specification for home and building control has been launched by RF module design and manufacturing company Radiocrafts AS.

The new RC1180-KNX1 module has embedded protocol supporting KNX-RF 1.1 and KNX Ready, and can be used for unidirectional and bidirectional devices, as well as in battery operated systems. It conforms to EN 50090 (ISO/IEC 14543-3).

KNX is one of the leading standards for home and building control, including smart home, building automation and building management system applications. Studies have shown up to 50 percent energy savings using KNX technology.

With the new KNX product series, Radiocrafts gives customers an easy transition to Konnex with compatible products. Interoperation between Wireless M-Bus and KNX-RF is also possible using the new module.

The module operates in the 868 MHz band, using Listen Before Talk (LBT) to reduce collisions.

One receiver can be linked with up to 64 transmitters, enabling very large RF networks. It can be used with S, A and E modes of installation. Among other features, the module offer automatic battery supervision and signal strength information. The KNX1 is the first feature set in a family of KNX products that will also include RF repeaters and media couplers.

The new RC1180-KNX1 is a surface-mounted high performance transceiver module measuring only 12.7 x 25.4 x 3.3 mm, and can easily be integrated into any sensor or actuator. A UART interface is used for serial communication and configuration. An antenna is connected directly to the RF pin. The RC1180-KNX1 module is certified for operation under the European radio regulations for license-free use. When used with quarter-wave antennas a line-of-sight range of 800 m can be achieved.

“By launching the compact KNX-RF module in the market, we have again demonstrated our technological leadership in embedded wireless solutions,” commented Peder Martin Evjen, managing director of Radiocrafts. “KNX-RF is a green technology, enabling smart building automation systems that help to reduce energy consumption. Together with Wireless M-Bus, the standard for remote energy meter reading, these are technologies promising a better future.”

The module and demo kits are available now.