Connectivity solutions for smart buildings at Light & Building 2018

On display at the Tapko Technologies booth, E30, Hall 9.1, the STKNX functions as a complete KNX transceiver for twisted-pair wired connectivity in Tapko devices, with power circuitry on-chip in a compact footprint of just 4x4mm. It can be used for connecting devices like smart lights, switches, HVAC controllers, alarms, or smart appliances to KNX twisted-pair networks.

As well as its space-saving advantage, the STKNX helps customers get new building-automation products to market faster as part of a complete network-node solution that includes the KNX software stack, co-created by ST and Tapko. The stack is ready to run on any host microcontroller from ST's STM32 family.

The quick-start evaluation kit, EVALKITSTKNX, is also available, containing everything needed to build a KNX node including a STM32F103RBT6 microcontroller, Arduino-compatible headers for custom function expansion, and a sample LED-dimming application.

At Light & Building 2018, automation innovator Vimar S.p.A (booth C72, Hall 11.1), one of the first companies to adopt the STKNX in new designs, will demonstrate the first product of a technically advanced new range containing the transceiver.

"We are utilising the STKNX transceiver as an important part of our new generation of products for home and building automation systems," said Alessandro Ravagnin, Systems Marketing Manager Vimar SpA.

"Light & Building 2018 sees the world premiere of our new, future-focused product line, which delivers unprecedented performance over wired fieldbus connectivity. As is the Vimar way, we have combined comfort, security, and energy efficiency - the main pillars of smart home and smart building - with a unique user experience, great aesthetic appeal, and a perfectly coordinated ecosystem."

Domenico Arrigo, General Manager Industrial and Power Conversion Division, STMicroelectronics, commented: "Our successful cooperation with Tapko has delivered software and hardware for product developers to create highly functional and stylish building-automation products that enhance both the convenience and the appearance of homes and offices."

The STKNX transceiver is available now in 0.5mm-pitch 24-pin VQFNPN24.