Linet, the 'Light Control Network', is an easy-to-use network system to control a cluster of simple electrical devices. The new Ethernet feature allows this cluster to be connected to Internet and Intranet systems. This solution brings the benefits of Ethernet-based systems into low level systems.

Linet has been designed to replace the traditional fixed control wiring. The added values of this concept are the savings in installation and the far better changeability and upgradeability compared to e.g. relay boxes or programmable logic controllers. Linet is an easy-to-use system, so it allows the user to enjoy the benefits of networking without acquiring networking knowledge.

The building blocks in a Linet network are the network nodes, the network cabling, and the network controller. The nodes are small and inexpensive IC-components attached to the electrical devices to be controlled. The nodes are networked with a dedicated topology-free 2-wire network that simultaneously transmits information and power. The Linet network controller has multiple tasks: it is the communications master and the power supply for the nodes, it offers the services to set-up and maintain the network, and it can optionally form a link to high-level information systems.

New Ethernet-Controller

The new Linet network controller is equipped with an Ethernet interface and TCP/IP protocol as a standard feature. A Linet network then forms a low-level sub-network to Internet and Intranet systems. Each Linet node can be identified via Internet by the Linet network address of the node and the IP address of the corresponding controller.

This solution offers a wide range of attractive opportunities e.g. in home automation. The backbone system in the building is Ethernet, into which all the devices transmitting large amounts of data are connected - interphones, audio and IT equipment, etc. A single or several Linet networks are connected to control the devices transmitting control instructions and small amounts of data - lighting control pushbuttons, light fittings, heaters and temperature sensors, sensors of the fire and burglar alarm systems etc. This solution combines the good qualities of both technologies and lowers the overall costs of such systems.

In industrial automation applications, Linet system is used to control or monitor a process. It's real-time operation, good immunity against external interference, and low noise emission, makes it a noteworthy choice when savings in system cabling costs, weight, easiness of modifying, or overall expenses are considered.
 

Linet Oy introduces the new Ethernet controller at the ELKOM 2001 fair in Helsinki. The controller is in production and it is priced competitively against conventional Ethernet-I/O-converters.
 

For more information please contact: Linet Oy, marketing mgr. Kalevi Härkönen, Tel +358 9 4778 2830, +358 40 570 2162, stand 6m29.
 

Linet Oy, 13th February 2001