Renesas Electronics Streamlines Building Automation Network Extension By Implementing KNX Protocol Over G3-PLC

The leading supplier of highly developed semiconductor solutions recently implemented KNX protocol over its G3-PLC™ PLC (Powerline Communication solution. In order to help everyone understand how to implement KNX networks and benefit from the efficiency and flexibility of advanced G3-PLC technology, Renesas will be demonstrating the proof of embedded world concept in Nuremberg, Germany from 26th – 28th February 2019 in Booth -310.

Fig. 1: Renesas Implements KNX On G3-PLC Protocol

Combination of power line and data cable in one cable system while utilizing most efficient modulation techniques allows PLC to optimize costings and extend connectivity via buildings across the walls and over longer distances.

What The Maker Has To Say?

As the Vice President of Renesas Electronics Corporation, Akihiro Kuroda, puts it, “With the trend toward energy efficiency and green design of commercial buildings, the challenges of renovating existing facilities is growing, particularly for power distribution networks, since most commercial buildings have areas where RF and traditional network cabling do not reach.”

Further he also adds that, “The new Renesas Powerline Modern Solution demonstrates the possibilities for G3-PLC technology to address these needs without requiring new cable deployment by combining the advantages of the open G3-PLC standard with the attractiveness of KNX protocol known to be one of the most popular network protocols for building automation. This will enable the deployment of reliable and cost-effective networking solutions for HVAC, lighting, fire and safety, and building access security, among others.”

The G3-PLC protocol was initially developed for only energy metering applications. However, it can be used freely in form of an open standard and is consistently maintained by G3-PLC Alliance. In words of Marc Delandre, the Chairman of G3-PLC Alliance, “Even though G3-PLC was first adopted for metering applications, its field of usage is not restricted and the Renesas solutions opens new horizons for G3-PLC technology adoption in smart building applications.”

The Tech Details

The Renesas Powerline Modem Solution is constituted by Renesas’ OFDM PLC software modem, the ISL15102, and Renesas Synergy™ microcontroller. Its software stack is based on SSP (Synergy Software Package) and brings together the Renesas G3-PLC stack with Tapko Technologies GmbH’s KNX software. The proof of this concept will permit customers to create KNX on G3-PLC protocol that will provide a smooth migration path from the previous version of KNX standard to the upgraded KNX IoT standard.