KNX/EIB: bus domótico profesional para edificaciones

KNX/EIB (European Installation Bus) es el estándar internacional de home automation profesional más utilizado en Europa para automation de edificios, desde viviendas unifamiliares hasta complejos comerciales e industriales.

Certificado como estándar europeo (EN 50090), internacional (ISO/IEC 14543) y chino (GB/T 20965), KNX garantiza interoperabilidad total entre fabricantes y representa la elección premium para instalaciones Domóticas profesionales.

Esta guide técnica te mostrará cómo funciona KNX, cuándo elegirlo sobre protocolos consumer como WiFi o Zigbee, y cómo planificar una installation KNX que durará décadas.

Arquitectura técnica KNX

specifications del protocol

KNX Protocol Stack:

Application Layer: KNX Application Objects
Network Layer: KNX Network Protocol
Data Link Layer: KNX Data Link Protocol
Physical Layer: TP (Twisted Pair), RF, IP, PL

Medios de transmisión:
- KNX/TP: Twisted Pair (bus cable específico)
- KNX/RF: Radio Frequency 868 MHz
- KNX/IP: Ethernet/WiFi tunneling
- KNX/PL: Power Line (por red eléctrica)

Especificaciones técnicas:
- Velocidad: 9600 bps (TP), 16 kbps (RF)
- Topología: Bus libre con acopladores línea
- Alimentación: 30V DC por bus (SELV)
- Distancia: 1000m máximo por segmento
- Dispositivos: 256 por línea, 65536 total

Topología bus KNX/TP

Estructura jerárquica escalable

Jerarquía installation KNX:

Instalación KNX completa:
├── Área 1 (Planta baja)
│   ├── Línea 1.1 (Salón-cocina)
│   │   ├── Dispositivo 1.1.1 (Actuador luces salón)
│   │   ├── Dispositivo 1.1.2 (Sensor presencia)
│   │   └── Dispositivo 1.1.15 (Termostato zona)
│   ├── Línea 1.2 (Dormitorios)
│   └── Línea 1.3 (Baños-exterior)
├── Área 2 (Primera planta)
│   ├── Línea 2.1 (Suite principal)
│   └── Línea 2.2 (Dormitorios invitados)
└── Línea principal (Backbone)

Addressing scheme:
- Formato: Área.Línea.Dispositivo (1.2.15)
- Máximo: 15 áreas × 15 líneas × 255 dispositivos
- Total teórico: 57,375 dispositivos
- Práctico: 3,000-5,000 dispositivos typical

Componentes infraestructura:

Bus cable KNX/TP:
- YCYM 2×2×0.8mm específico KNX
- Par datos: Transmisión señal KNX
- Par auxiliar: Alimentación 30V DC
- Apantallamiento: Protección interferencias
- Color: Verde (identificación visual)

Acopladores y repetidores:
- Line Coupler: Conexión líneas diferentes áreas
- Repeater: Extensión distancia bus (1000m adicionales)
- IP Router: Tunneling KNX over IP
- Media Coupler: Conversión TP ↔ RF ↔ PL

Direccionamiento KNX groups

Sistema direcciones grupo flexible

Group Addresses KNX:

Estructura addressing funcional:
- Individual Address: Identifica dispositivo físico
- Group Address: Identifica función lógica
- Un dispositivo múltiples group addresses

Ejemplo práctico salón:
Dispositivos físicos:
- 1.1.5: Actuador luces salón (4 canales)
- 1.1.8: Sensor presencia salón
- 1.1.12: Pulsador 4 teclas salón

Group Addresses funcionales:
- 1/1/1: Luz general salón
- 1/1/2: Luz lectura salón
- 1/1/3: Luz ambiente salón
- 1/2/1: Presencia salón
- 1/3/1: Scene "Película salón"
- 1/3/2: Scene "Cena salón"

Organización addresses systematic:

Main Groups (1-31):
1/ = Iluminación
2/ = Persianas/Toldos
3/ = Climatización HVAC
4/ = Seguridad/Alarmas
5/ = Audio/Video
6/ = Riego jardín
7/ = Energía/Monitorización
8/ = Scenes/Programas

Middle Groups (0-7):
/1/ = Planta baja
/2/ = Primera planta
/3/ = Sótano/Garaje
/4/ = Exterior/Jardín

Sub Groups (0-255):
//1 = Salón
//2 = Cocina
//3 = Dormitorio principal
//4 = Baños

devices KNX ecosystem

sensors y entradas KNX

sensors multifunction profesionales

ABB i-bus KNX sensors:

Weather Station KNX (€450):
- Sensores: Temperatura, humedad, viento, lluvia, luminosidad
- Salidas: 8 canales diferentes mediciones
- Alarmas: Configurables por umbral
- Protección: IP65 exterior
- Group addresses: Múltiples por sensor

Aplicaciones automatización:
- Temperatura → Control HVAC automático
- Viento → Retracción toldos/persianas
- Lluvia → Cierre ventanas automatizado
- Luminosidad → Control iluminación artificial
- Integración calefacción, refrigeración, ventilación

Detector presencia/movimiento KNX:

Theben thePrema P360 (€180):
- Cobertura: 360° hasta 8m diámetro
- Sensibilidad: Ajustable por software ETS
- Funciones: Presencia + luminosidad + temperatura
- Salidas: Switching + dimming + valor analógico
- Lógica: Programable delays, thresholds

Configuración típica ETS:
- Switch ON: Presencia detectada + luminosidad <100 lux
- Switch OFF: No presencia 10 minutos + luz natural suficiente
- Dimming level: Automático según luminosidad exterior
- Night mode: Nivel reducido 22:00-07:00

Actuadores KNX switching/dimming

Control lighting profesional

Jung actuadores universales:

Actuador Universal 4-gang (€320):
- Canales: 4× switching/dimming configurable
- Carga: 16A resistiva, 400VA inductiva por canal
- Tipos carga: LED, halógena, fluorescente
- Protecciones: Sobrecarga, cortocircuito, térmica
- Detección: Automatic carga tipo + calibración

Configuración software:
- Canal 1: Dimmer LED salón (0-100%, soft start)
- Canal 2: Switch fluorescente cocina (ON/OFF)
- Canal 3: Dimmer halógena lectura (0-100%, preset levels)
- Canal 4: Switch exterior (ON/OFF, astronomic clock)

Actuadores persianas KNX:

ABB Blind/Shutter Actuator (€280):
- Canales: 2× motores persiana independientes
- Control: Subida/bajada + posicionamiento exacto
- Protección: Detección final carrera automático
- Seguridad: Anti-crushing, manual override
- Feedback: Posición actual reporting

Funciones automatización:
- Sun protection: Seguimiento solar automático
- Weather integration: Viento/lluvia→retracción
- Security: Simulación presencia
- Energy saving: Thermal management

climate control HVAC KNX

Control clima profesional

thermostats ambiente KNX:

Jung Room Controller Universal (€420):
- Display: 3.5" color capacitive touch
- Sensores: Temperatura, humedad, CO2, presencia
- Salidas: Heating, cooling, ventilación
- Control: 2-pipe, 4-pipe systems
- Interface: Room scheduling, scenarios

HVAC integration:
- Calefacción: Radiadores + suelo radiante
- Refrigeración: Fan coils + aire acondicionado
- Ventilación: VMC + air quality control
- Optimization: Predictive heating, presence detection

Interface sistemas KNX

Gateways e integration

KNX/IP Interface secure:

ABB IP Interface Secure (€380):
- Connectivity: Ethernet + WiFi
- Security: KNX Data Secure + IP Secure
- Functions: Tunneling + Routing
- ETS: Programming via IP remote
- Visualization: Web server integrated

Remote access:
- ETS programming: Secure tunnel VPN-like
- Visualization: Web browser any device
- Mobile apps: Manufacturer specific
- Cloud integration: Optional (security considerations)

KNX → Other protocols bridges:

KNX/Modbus Gateway (€450):
- Integration: HVAC systems, energy meters
- Registers: Up to 200 Modbus registers
- Conversion: Automatic data type mapping
- Monitoring: Bus traffic visualization

KNX/DMX Gateway (€350):
- Lighting: Professional stage lighting
- Channels: 512 DMX channels control
- Scenes: Complex lighting programs
- Synchronization: Audio/visual events

Programación ETS (Engineering Tool Software)

ETS Professional workflow

Software setup official

ETS6 Professional capabilities:

Project management:
- Multi-project workspace
- Device import manufacturer catalogs
- Topology design graphical
- Group address management structured
- Logic functions programming

Device configuration:
- Parameter setting per device
- Group address assignment
- Function block programming
- Testing/commissioning tools
- Documentation automatic generation

Advanced features:
- Multi-user collaboration
- Version control projects
- Remote programming secure
- Project backup/restore
- Performance analysis network

ETS programming methodology:

Workflow systematic:
1. Project structure creation
   - Areas/lines definition
   - Device placement topology
   - Group address plan structured

2. Device configuration
   - Parameter configuration individual
   - Group address assignment
   - Function relationships definition

3. Logic programming
   - Scenes creation
   - Automatic functions
   - Time programs
   - Security logic

4. Testing commissioning
   - Bus monitor analysis
   - Device functionality testing
   - Group communication verification
   - Performance optimization

5. Documentation delivery
   - As-built drawings
   - Group address lists
   - Operation manual
   - Maintenance procedures

Logic functions programming

Advanced automation KNX

Scene controller programming:

ETS Logic Editor:
IF (Group 1/2/1 = "Presence detected")
AND (Group 7/1/1 < 200 Lux)
AND (Time = 07:00-22:00)
THEN
  Group 1/1/1 = 100% (2 seconds fade)
  Group 1/1/2 = 75% (3 seconds fade)
  Group 2/1/1 = 50% blind position

Scene "Goodnight":
Group 1/1/1 = OFF (10 seconds fade all lights)
Group 2/1/1 = 100% (close all blinds)
Group 3/1/1 = 16°C (night setback heating)
Group 4/1/1 = ARM (security system activation)

Time-based automation:

Astronomical clock integration:
- Sunrise/sunset automatic calculation
- Seasonal adjustment automatic
- Holiday calendar integration
- Manual override capability

Weekly schedules:
Monday-Friday:
  06:30: Heating 22°C, lights gradual ON
  08:00: Persianas UP if sunny
  18:00: Scene "Evening" activation
  23:00: Scene "Night" activation

Weekend schedule different:
  Sleep-in mode, delayed automation
  Different temperature profiles
  Extended evening lighting

installation KNX professional

Planning installation KNX

Diseño sistema profesional

Load analysis y dimensioning:

Electrical load calculation:
- Actuators consumption: 250mA typical per device
- Sensors consumption: 15mA typical per device
- Bus power supply: 640mA maximum per segment
- Power supplies: 30V DC regulated KNX bus

Ejemplo calculation planta:
Devices planned:
- 12× Actuators iluminación = 12 × 250mA = 3A
- 8× Sensores presencia = 8 × 15mA = 120mA
- 4× Termostatos = 4 × 100mA = 400mA
Total: 3.52A → 6× Power supplies needed

Bus segmentation required:
- Segment 1: Actuators iluminación (3A)
- Segment 2: Sensores + termostatos (520mA)
- Redundancy: Additional power supplies backup

Cable installation guidelines:

KNX bus cable requirements:
- Cable type: YCYM 2×2×0.8mm + shield
- Installation: Separate conduit from 230V power
- Distance: Minimum 30cm from power cables
- Topology: Star, tree, line (not ring)
- Termination: Bus terminal blocks specific

Installation best practices:
□ Star topology preferred (reliability)
□ Bus cable dedicated conduits
□ Accessible junction boxes maintenance
□ Cable labeling systematic
□ Documentation as-built accurate
□ Testing commissioning systematic

Commissioning KNX systems

Testing y puesta servicio

ETS commissioning tools:

Bus Monitor functionality:
- Real-time telegram traffic
- Error detection analysis
- Performance metrics monitoring
- Group communication verification

Device testing systematic:
1. Individual address verification
2. Parameter download confirmation
3. Group address communication testing
4. Function block operation verification
5. Scene activation testing
6. Automatic functions testing

Troubleshooting tools:
- Line voltage measurement (30V DC)
- Bus traffic analysis
- Device online/offline status
- Programming verification

Performance optimization:

Bus load optimization:
- Telegram frequency analysis
- Critical path identification
- Response time measurement
- Bottleneck elimination

Network optimization:
- Segment load balancing
- Repeater strategic placement
- Cable path optimization
- Interference elimination

Maintenance scheduling:
- Preventive maintenance calendar
- Firmware updates planning
- Performance monitoring ongoing
- Documentation updates systematic

KNX vs otros protocolos

KNX vs WiFi/Zigbee residential

Professional vs consumer comparison

Reliability comparison:

KNX advantages:
✓ Dedicated bus infrastructure (no interference)
✓ 30+ years field proven reliability
✓ Professional installation standards
✓ Redundant power supply options
✓ No wireless reliability issues

WiFi/Zigbee limitations:
❌ Interference 2.4 GHz band
❌ Network congestion issues
❌ Power outage = communication lost
❌ Consumer device reliability variable
❌ DIY installation quality variable

Investment protection:
KNX: 20-30 years lifetime typical
Zigbee/WiFi: 3-5 years obsolescence typical

Functionality comparison:

Professional features KNX:
✓ Logic programming advanced
✓ Time scheduling complex
✓ Load monitoring detailed
✓ Security integration certified
✓ Energy management sophisticated

Consumer limitations:
❌ Basic automation only
❌ Cloud dependency many functions
❌ Limited logic capabilities
❌ Security concerns IoT devices
❌ Vendor lock-in ecosystems

Casos uso optimal KNX

Cuándo justificar investment KNX

Residential optimal scenarios:

High-end residential (>€500k property):
✓ Custom home automation requirements
✓ Integration lighting, HVAC, security, AV
✓ Long-term reliability critical
✓ Professional installation/maintenance
✓ Multiple zones control sophisticated

Commercial buildings:
✓ Office buildings energy management
✓ Hotels guest room automation
✓ Restaurants lighting/climate control
✓ Retail stores flexible lighting scenes
✓ Healthcare facilities reliable control

ROI analysis KNX vs alternatives:

Initial investment comparison:
KNX system €15-25 per m² installation
WiFi/Zigbee €3-8 per m² installation

Long-term costs:
KNX: Maintenance minimal, reliability high
Alternatives: Device replacement frequent, troubleshooting

Break-even analysis:
- Premium properties: Immediate (added value)
- Commercial: 3-5 years energy savings
- Residential standard: 10+ years (comfort value)

Fabricantes y ecosystem KNX

Principales fabricantes

Leaders mercado KNX

ABB i-bus KNX:

Product range comprehensive:
- Actuators: Switching, dimming, blinds, HVAC
- Sensors: Weather, presence, temperature
- Interface: IP, visualization, gateways
- Quality: Industrial grade reliability
- Support: Global technical support network

Jung KNX product line:

Design-focused solutions:
- Room controllers: Premium touch interfaces
- Sensors: Invisible integration architecture
- Actuators: Compact DIN rail mounting
- Switches: Design series integration
- Innovation: Latest technology adoption

Schneider Electric KNX:

Building automation focus:
- Integration: Modbus, BACnet, LON
- Energy management: Advanced monitoring
- Security: Access control integration
- Commercial: Large building expertise
- Software: Advanced visualization tools

Certificación KNX

Quality assurance program

KNX certification process:

Device certification requirements:
- Interoperability testing mandatory
- Protocol compliance verification
- Quality standards EN 50090
- Manufacturer testing laboratory
- Annual surveillance audits

Benefits certified devices:
✓ Guaranteed interoperability
✓ Software compatibility ETS
✓ Long-term support manufacturer
✓ Professional installer confidence
✓ End-user warranty protection

Conclusión: KNX como standard premium home automation

KNX representa el estándar gold para instalaciones domóticas profesionales donde la confiabilidad, functionality avanzada y longevidad justifican la investment inicial superior.

Checklist decisión KNX

Evaluation criteria:

• Property value >€500k (residential) o commercial
• Reliability critical (24/7 operation requirements)
• Advanced automation needs (complex logic)
• Professional installation budget available
• Long-term investment horizon (10+ years)

Project planning:

• Load analysis y bus dimensioning
• Professional KNX installer selection
• ETS programming requirements definition
• Integration other building systems
• Maintenance contract establishment

Implementation:

• Infrastructure installation professional
• ETS programming y commissioning
• User training operation/maintenance
• Documentation system complete
• Performance testing acceptance

La elección premium: confiabilidad profesional

KNX no compite con WiFi o Zigbee en cost—compite en value profesional y confiabilidad enterprise.

Si tu proyecto justifica la investment en un sistema domótico que funcionará perfectamente durante décadas, KNX es la única opción profesional verdaderamente probada en el mercado.

Para comparar KNX con otras opciones, consulta nuestra Comparativa completa de tecnologías domóticas o evalúa si necesitas Home automation DIY vs profesional.