I’m starting a master bath remodel and want something like KNX for control of all lighting, fans, etc. A single scene controller will be installed, and automation of various functions done via home asssistant.
I love the concept of KNX, however I can’t get my head around the need to spend unreasonable amounts of money just to program the basics of the hardware. The software is also Windows only, and I live a Windows free life.
So my question is - what are others doing? Have you found another less encumbered system? Is there a way to program the KNX system without the ETS software they seem to require one time?
Hi you can use UTM to emulate Windows under mac or use a similar VM under Linux. Unfortunately you need the ETS or you can maybe borrow a licence stick form a friendly electrician. The Software is quite affordable if you use less than 64 pyscial knx devices (ETS Home).
If you add up all the cost you will see even with the software it is usually cheaper than a custom shelly solution of the functionality. And you have hardware that will last decades without any maintenance.
I have some of those in place around the house. Not ideal for centralizing wiring into a hidden bank of switches tho.
KNX for me is a just a bus bar of switches that I want to control with HA. All switches in one panel, hidden in a closet. Need to control 120VAC loads.
I’m asking myself a similar question for a while now. We’re planning to completely demolish and rebuild the top floor of our house and after all the research I’ve done I really don’t like KNX for several reasons.
Technically, alternative bus systems would be Modbus and I2C. But you don’t really need a bus systems if you’re star wiring everything to a central switch panel.
You will probably find everything you need in the Shelly Pro series. Filter the products on the Shelly website for din rail mount installation.
Depending on the specific product they support ethernet, wifi, z-wave and/or BLE. Use either MQTT or the shelly integration. Works cloud-free and rock solid. I already use it to control the lights in my kitchen, all lights and switches star-wired to the basement. One Pro 4PM and two Pro Dimmer 2PM. Btw, I find it nice to have the switch panel somewhere where you don’t hear the relays clicking.
Sonoff also has a couple of din rail mounted options that might fit the task. I haven’t tried them yet and don’t know about HA integration.
Sonoff SPM even has a bus system, connecting boxes of four relays via RS-485. Might be neat in case a more decentralised installation makes sense for you. Apparently they can run tasmota: Sonoff SPM - Tasmota
Also I strongly recommend to run CAT7 cables everywhere, doesn’t cost so much and will give you plenty of options for POE stuff in the future. Also speaker wires and extra mains power in the ceiling and/or walls for speakers and presence detection.
