'ARD-Technology' is a consultancy company with focus in the design of embedded and real-time control systems. ARD has also expertise and design tools for LONWORKS building automation network nodes. Now ARD has produced a HW platform and developed the necessary software to link together Linet and LONWORKS systems.
 
The link connects one LONWORKS Neuron chip and a Linet controller, thus increasing the I/O capacity of the Neuron by a mix of up to 200 analog and digital I/O points, that are decentralized using the Linet twisted pair cable network.
 
This approach combines the benefits of both technologies. Linet offers ultimate easiness, low cost and fast response times when connected to simple devices, such as switches, lighting fixtures, heaters, sensors, etc. LONWORKS network would be installed to operate on the higher hierarchical level, transmitting control information between, e.g., different floors, or areas of the building. In the beginning, the systems may also be installed separately - e.g. Linet as a fast reacting, easily modifiable lighting system, LONWORKS network as a climate controller - and the link between the systems may be installed later.
 
Mr. Seppo Laine, research and development manager of Linet Oy: 'This project shows clearly where Linet has it's focus. Our product is the grassroots-level network: easy and low cost system for communication between simple devices. When linked to standardized information systems, such as LONWORKS network, it brings the full flexibility and material savings of control networking to sophisticated building automation systems.'
 
 
For more information, please contact:
ARD Technology Oy, Mr. Jussi Säntti, tel +358 9 504 1020, or
Linet Oy, Mr. Seppo Laine, tel +358 9 4774 0089.
 
About the companies: ARD-Technology Oy (www.ard.fi) offers consultation and design services in real time embedded systems and system integration.
 
Linet Oy is a privately held company committed to developing and marketing the Linet network. Products available from Linet are the network chip set and design services. Linet, 'the light network', is an innovative local operational network offering easiest design, set-up and administration in such simple network applications as home automation, alarm systems or industry automation. The Linet network is patented in the USA and Finland, other patents are pending.
 
 
LONWORKS and Neuron are registered trademarks of Echelon Corporation.
 
 
Linet Oy, 22nd August 2000