A new automation system will eliminate complications when trying to integrate different systems, says manufacturer BTicino, a wiring devices brand that is part of HPM Legrand.

The My Home range is a suite of automated applications for home or commercial premises. They include lighting and blind control, multi-room audio distribution, temperature control, audio and video intercoms, and security surveillance systems.

In the My Home collection, automated devices including audio and temperature controllers have the same wallplates as non-automated devices such as basic switches and outlets.

Providing a BUS wire is present, basic BTicino switches can be upgraded to automated devices simply by exchanging the mechanism.

With the BUS system, a two-wire connection system, all devices are connected by a signal line dedicated to exchanging information and transporting the power supply voltage.

My Home devices are connected in parallel to an unshielded twisted pair cable. All power, data, audio and video signals are carried over this one cable, which is not polarity sensitive.

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Actuator devices controlling the loads are connected to the 240V AC power supply as well as to the BUS line.

Brook Lawson is national category manager for building management at BTicino Australia.

“In Australia we are seeing a growing trend towards home automation, with the number of houses containing smart wiring doubling in just three years. In this day and age, developing properties without the foundation for automation will only jeopardise their future value.”

My Home can be configured at three levels: basic, virtual and web server.

At the most basic level, point-to-point configuration, up to 16 simple scenes and 100 functions per scene can be programmed, as well as multi-room audio and basic group controls.

The next level is programmed by a PDA or a PC and makes the system faster to configure, with fault-finding made easier because it is possible to distinguish whether it is a device or load that is faulty.

Programming at the web-server level is conducted via a controller that sits in the distribution board and allows up to 300 scenes with 100 functions per scene.

“Home automation has been the main thrust of product innovation in recent years,” Brook says.

HPM Legrand chief executive Giuseppe Parola says the modular system is one of the great assets of the My Home range.

He compares it to Lego in the way its modularity offers installers a range of items that act as ‘building blocks’ that can be combined in various ways.

“Installers can keep three sizes of coverplates in stock and numerous mechanisms, ranging from basic switches and power outlets to infrared detectors, video cameras, alarm clocks, audio controllers and chronothermostats,” Giuseppe says.

“They can then easily build what they need on site. By providing much more flexibility the system reduces planning time, lengthy invoicing and trips to wholesalers.

“Intelligent devices can be integrated with built-in video cameras, chronothermostats or infra-red detectors with the same coverplates used for switches and power outlets.”

The coverplates come in the ranges Light, Light Tech and Living in gum-resin, die-cast metal, aluminium and woodgrain.