• LonWorks Solutions for Open Systems Building Automation
• Applications Stories
• What are the Benefits?
• Defining an Open System
  
  Standards Update
• White Papers
• LonWorks Comparative Analyses
• Network Integrators
• LonMark Interoperability
• LonWorks Technology At Work In Buildings Around The World
• Read about Echelon's New Headquarters in San Jose

A Holistic Approach to Market Segments

In the past, building control systems were a loose collection of subsystems such as lighting and heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC).

Echelon broke down the walls that separated these subsystems. Instead of treating a building as a collection of use-specific applications, we approached the market with a pioneering holistic approach: Treat every device in the building as a equal on a control network. Now, instead of needing three motion sensors -- one each for lighting, HVAC, and security -- building integrators can use a single motion sensor for all their systems.

We call this type of a building system an open, peer-to-peer network. The benefits?

• It costs less to install.
• It's more expandable and easier to manage.
• It's extremely flexible.
• You can easily integrate it with future building automation technologies such as XML and IP.

"Our customers seek flexibility in their control systems. We have adopted an open architecture strategy to meet those customer requirements and enhance their options. Because of its openness and widespread acceptance, LonWorks technology will be an important part of our building automation strategy." Rick Cathcart, Honeywell Building Control