Glossary

A

• Access Control

  Access control is a security system that manages who can enter a property or specific area using methods such as PINs, cards, biometrics, smartphones or other credentials.

• Actuator

  An actuator is a device that receives a command from an automation system and performs a physical action, such as switching a light, controlling a motor or operating a valve.

• Adaptive Lighting

  Adaptive lighting automatically adjusts brightness, colour temperature or lighting behaviour based on factors such as time, occupancy, daylight or user preferences.

• AI CCTV

  AI CCTV uses artificial intelligence to analyse camera footage and identify events such as people, vehicles, movement or unusual activity.

• Apple HomeKit

  Apple HomeKit is Apple's smart-home framework that allows compatible devices such as lights, locks, sensors and thermostats to be controlled and automated through Apple devices and the Home app.

• Automation Scenes for Effortless Smart Home Living

  Learn what Automation Scene means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

B

• Biometric Access Control

  Biometric access control uses unique physical characteristics such as fingerprints or facial features to identify and authorise a person.

• Blinds Automation

  Blinds automation uses motors and control systems to automatically open, close or position blinds based on user commands, schedules, sunlight or other conditions.

• Bluetooth Automation

  Bluetooth automation uses Bluetooth wireless communication to connect and control compatible smart devices, sensors, switches and other automation products, particularly over short distances.

• Building Management System (BMS)

  A Building Management System is a centralised system used to monitor and control building services such as HVAC, lighting, energy, security and other automated systems.

• Bus Coupler

  A bus coupler connects an automation device to a communication bus and allows it to exchange information with other devices, such as in a KNX installation.

C

• CCT

  CCT, or Correlated Colour Temperature, describes the colour appearance of white light and is measured in Kelvin (K). Lower values generally appear warmer, while higher values appear cooler.

• Central Control for a Fully Connected Home

  Learn what Central Control means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

• Circadian Lighting

  Circadian lighting is designed to support natural human daily rhythms by adjusting light intensity and colour temperature throughout the day.

• Colour Rendering Index (CRI)

  CRI indicates how accurately a light source reveals the colours of objects compared with a reference light source. Higher CRI generally provides a more natural colour appearance.

• Control4

  Control4 is a smart-home automation platform that integrates lighting, entertainment, security, climate, shades and other connected devices into a unified control system.

• CoolMaster

  CoolMaster is a gateway solution used to integrate air-conditioning systems, particularly VRF/VRV systems, with building automation and smart-home control platforms.

• Curtain Automation

  Curtain automation uses motors and control systems to open, close or position curtains automatically.

D

• DALI

  DALI, or Digital Addressable Lighting Interface, is a digital communication protocol designed specifically for controlling and managing lighting systems.

• Daylight Sensor

  A daylight sensor measures the amount of natural light available in an area and can be used to automatically adjust artificial lighting.

• Dimmer

  A dimmer is a device that controls the brightness of a light source by regulating its electrical output.

• Dimming Actuator

  A dimming actuator receives commands from an automation system and adjusts the brightness of compatible lighting circuits.

• DMX

  DMX, or Digital Multiplex, is a communication protocol widely used for controlling professional lighting and entertainment systems, including architectural, stage and colour-changing lighting.

E

• Electric Fencing

  Electric fencing is a perimeter security system that uses controlled electrical pulses to detect or deter unauthorised access.

• Emergency Lighting

  Emergency lighting provides illumination when the normal power supply fails, helping occupants safely navigate and exit a building.

• Energy Management System

  An Energy Management System monitors and controls energy consumption across a property to improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary usage.

• Ethernet

  Ethernet is a wired networking technology used to connect controllers, cameras, access points, automation devices and other equipment over a local network.

• ETS

  ETS, or Engineering Tool Software, is the software used for designing, configuring and commissioning KNX installations.

F

• Fan Coil Unit (FCU)

  A Fan Coil Unit is an HVAC device that uses a fan and heat-exchange coil to provide heating or cooling to a room or zone.

• Fan Speed Control

  Fan speed control allows the operating speed of HVAC or ventilation fans to be adjusted automatically or manually according to temperature, demand or user preferences.

• Fire Alarm Integration

  Fire alarm integration allows the fire alarm system to communicate with other building automation systems and trigger predefined actions during an emergency.

• Firmware

  Firmware is the embedded software that controls the basic operation of a smart device, sensor, controller or automation product.

• Flow Sensor

  A flow sensor measures the movement or rate of a liquid or gas through a pipe and can be used in water management and automation systems.

G

• Gate Automation

  Gate automation uses motors, controllers and sensors to open and close vehicle or pedestrian gates automatically.

• Gateway

  A gateway connects different devices, networks or communication protocols, allowing systems that otherwise cannot communicate directly to exchange information.

• Geofencing

  Geofencing uses a person's location or the location of a mobile device to trigger predefined automation actions when entering or leaving a defined geographical area.

• Glare Control

  Glare control involves designing and positioning lighting to minimise excessive brightness that can cause visual discomfort or reduce visibility.

• Group Address

  In KNX, a group address identifies the communication destination for a command, allowing devices such as switches and actuators to communicate with each other.

H

• Home Assistant

  Home Assistant is an open-source home automation platform that allows users to integrate, monitor and automate devices and systems from different manufacturers through a unified interface.

• Home Automation for Smarter, Connected Living

  Learn what Home Automation means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

• Home Automation Hub: The Central Brain of a Smart Home

  Learn what Home Automation Hub means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

• Home Theater Automation

  Home theater automation integrates lighting, audio, video, curtains, screens and other equipment to create a coordinated entertainment experience.

• How a Home Automation System Works

  Learn what Home Automation System means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

• Hub

  A smart-home hub acts as a central point for connecting and managing compatible smart devices, depending on the automation platform being used.

• HVAC Automation

  HVAC automation controls heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems based on factors such as temperature, occupancy, schedules and user preferences.

I

• Intercom

  An intercom is a communication system that allows people in different locations within or around a property to communicate with each other.

• Intesis

  Intesis is a range of integration gateways that connect systems using different communication protocols, including HVAC, building automation and industrial communication networks.

• Intrusion Detection System

  An intrusion detection system uses sensors and monitoring technology to detect unauthorised entry or movement within protected areas.

• IoT

  IoT, or Internet of Things, refers to physical devices connected to a network that can collect, communicate or exchange data.

• IP Camera

  An IP camera is a security camera that transmits video over an IP network, allowing footage to be viewed and managed through network-connected systems.

• IR Control

  IR, or infrared control, uses infrared signals to operate devices such as televisions, air conditioners and other compatible AV equipment.

J

• Jitter

  Jitter refers to variations in the timing of data transmission across a network. Excessive jitter can affect real-time applications such as audio and video.

• Job Scheduling

  Job scheduling allows an automation system to execute predefined actions at specified times or according to a schedule.

• Joystick Control

  Joystick control uses a physical joystick to operate compatible systems or equipment, particularly in specialised AV, motorised or control applications.

• Junction Box

  A junction box is an enclosure used to protect and organise electrical connections and cable joints within an installation.

K

• Kelvin

  Kelvin is the unit commonly used to describe the colour temperature of white light. For example, 2700K generally appears warm, while 5000K appears cooler.

• KNX Actuator

  A KNX actuator receives commands over the KNX system and controls connected loads such as lights, motors, heating valves or other electrical equipment.

• KNX Bus

  The KNX bus is the communication pathway through which KNX devices exchange information and commands.

• KNX Home Automation for Connected Living

  Learn what KNX Home Automation means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

• KNX IP

  KNX IP allows KNX communication to be transmitted over Ethernet/IP networks, enabling integration between KNX installations and IP-based systems.

• KNX: Building a Smarter Connected Home

  Learn what KNX means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

L

• LED

  LED, or Light Emitting Diode, is a semiconductor light source known for its efficiency, long service life and wide range of applications.

• Light Distribution

  Light distribution describes how light is spread from a lighting fixture across a space or surface. It affects the coverage, uniformity and visual appearance of an illuminated area.

• Lighting Automation

  Lighting automation uses sensors, switches, schedules, scenes and control systems to automatically operate and manage lighting.

• Lighting Control Module

  A lighting control module is a device that receives commands from an automation system and controls one or more lighting circuits.

• Lumen

  A lumen is the unit used to measure the total amount of visible light emitted by a light source.

M

• Matter

  Matter is a smart-home connectivity standard designed to improve interoperability between compatible smart-home devices and ecosystems.

• Mobile App Control

  Mobile app control allows users to monitor and operate compatible home automation systems through a smartphone or tablet.

• Motion Sensor

  A motion sensor detects movement within a defined area and can trigger actions such as turning on lights, sending alerts or activating security systems.

• Motorised Curtains

  Motorised curtains use electric motors to open and close curtains automatically through switches, remote controls, sensors or automation systems.

• Multiroom Audio

  Multiroom audio distributes music or other audio content across multiple rooms, allowing individual or synchronised playback.

N

• Network Switch

  A network switch connects multiple wired devices on an Ethernet network and allows them to communicate with each other.

• NFC

  NFC, or Near Field Communication, is a short-range wireless technology that enables compatible devices to exchange information when placed close together.

• Night Mode

  Night mode is an automation scene or setting designed for nighttime use, often reducing lighting levels and changing the behaviour of other systems.

• Node

  A node is an individual device or endpoint within an automation or communication network.

O

• Occupancy Sensor

  An occupancy sensor detects whether a space is being used and can automatically control lighting, HVAC or other systems.

• Open Protocol

  An open protocol is a communication standard that allows devices from different manufacturers to communicate when they follow the same protocol.

• OTA Updates

  OTA, or Over-the-Air updates, allow compatible devices to receive software or firmware updates through a network without requiring a physical connection.

• Outdoor Automation

  Outdoor automation includes automated control of systems such as gates, lighting, irrigation, pergolas, blinds and security equipment.

P

• Perimeter Intrusion Detection

  Perimeter intrusion detection uses sensors and security technologies to identify attempts to cross or enter a protected property boundary.

• PIR Sensor

  A PIR, or Passive Infrared Sensor, detects changes in infrared radiation caused by moving people or objects.

• PoE

  PoE, or Power over Ethernet, allows compatible devices to receive both electrical power and network data through a single Ethernet cable.

• Power Supply

  A power supply converts and provides the electrical power required by automation devices, controllers, sensors and other equipment.

• Presence Detection

  Presence detection identifies whether a person is present in a space. Depending on the technology, it can detect presence even when a person is sitting relatively still.

Q

• QR Code Access

  QR Code Access is a smart-access method where a QR code can be used to authenticate a visitor or user and provide controlled access to a property.

• Quality of Lighting

  Quality of lighting describes the overall visual performance of a lighting system, including factors such as colour rendering, colour temperature, uniformity, glare and flicker.

• Queue Management

  Queue management refers to controlling the sequence in which commands or events are processed by an automation or control system.

• Quick Scene

  A quick scene is a predefined automation command that activates multiple actions with a single button press or command.

R

• Relay

  A relay is an electrically controlled switch that allows an automation system to turn an electrical load on or off.

• Retrofit Automation

  Retrofit automation adds smart-home capabilities to an existing property without necessarily requiring a complete rebuild of its electrical infrastructure.

• RF

  RF, or Radio Frequency, refers to wireless communication using radio waves. Many wireless switches, sensors and automation devices use RF communication.

• RGB Lighting

  RGB lighting uses red, green and blue LEDs to create a wide range of colours through different combinations of the three primary channels.

• Room Controller

  A room controller manages multiple functions within a particular room or zone, such as lighting, temperature, curtains and scenes.

• RS-485

  RS-485 is a wired communication standard designed for reliable data transmission over relatively long distances. It is commonly used by automation, HVAC, access-control and industrial devices.

• RTI

  RTI, or Remote Technologies Incorporated, is a professional control and automation platform used to integrate and operate AV, lighting, climate, shades and other systems.

S

• Scene Control: Simplifying Everyday Home Automation

  Learn what Scene Control means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

• Sensor

  A sensor detects a physical or environmental condition—such as motion, temperature, light, humidity or water—and provides information to an automation system.

• Smart Home Controller: Managing Your Connected Home

  Learn what Smart Home Controller means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

• Smart Home Integration: Connecting Your Home Systems

  Learn what Smart Home Integration means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

• Smart Home Technology for Modern Living

  Learn what Smart Home means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

• Smart Lock

  A smart lock is an electronically controlled door lock that can provide keyless access through methods such as PINs, biometrics, smartphones, cards or remote commands.

• Smart Panel

  A smart panel is a touchscreen or advanced wall-mounted controller used to operate multiple home automation functions from one interface.

• Smart Switch

  A smart switch is a connected electrical switch that can be controlled manually, remotely or automatically through an automation system.

T

• Thermostat

  A thermostat measures and controls temperature to maintain a desired level within a room or building.

• Time-Based Automation

  Time-based automation activates predefined actions according to a specific time, schedule or recurring routine.

• Touch Panel

  A touch panel is a touchscreen interface used to control functions such as lighting, HVAC, curtains, security and entertainment.

• Touch Sensor

  A touch sensor detects physical touch or contact and can be used to trigger lighting, scenes, access control or other automation functions.

• Trigger

  A trigger is an event or condition that starts an automation. For example, detecting motion can trigger a light to turn on.

U

• Ultrasonic Sensor

  An ultrasonic sensor uses sound waves above the range of human hearing to detect distance, movement or the presence of objects.

• Universal Remote

  A universal remote combines control of multiple compatible devices into a single remote-control interface.

• UPS

  UPS, or Uninterruptible Power Supply, provides backup power to connected equipment when the main power supply fails or becomes unstable.

• User Interface (UI)

  A user interface is the method through which a person interacts with an automation system, such as a keypad, touchscreen, mobile app or voice assistant.

V

• Video Door Phone

  A video door phone allows occupants to see and communicate with visitors before granting access to a property.

• Virtual Switch

  A virtual switch is a software-based switch that appears within an automation interface and can be used to trigger scenes, devices or automation logic.

• Voice Control

  Voice control allows users to operate compatible automation functions using spoken commands through voice assistants or dedicated control systems.

• VRF

  VRF, or Variable Refrigerant Flow, is an HVAC technology that allows refrigerant flow to be varied to provide individual temperature control across multiple zones.

• VRV

  VRV, or Variable Refrigerant Volume, is a proprietary term used by Daikin for its variable-refrigerant HVAC technology. VRV and VRF systems can be integrated with building automation systems.

W

• Wall Washing

  Wall washing is a lighting technique that illuminates a wall relatively evenly, reducing visible shadows and highlighting the overall surface.

• Water Leak Sensor

  A water leak sensor detects unwanted water and can send an alert or trigger an automated response, such as shutting off a water valve.

• Whole-Home Automation for Seamless Smart Living

  Learn what Whole-Home Automation means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.

• Wi-Fi Automation

  Wi-Fi automation uses Wi-Fi-connected devices to communicate with a home network and provide smart control of compatible equipment.

• Wireless Automation

  Wireless automation uses wireless communication technologies to connect sensors, switches, controllers and other smart-home devices without dedicated control wiring.

X

• X10

  X10 is an early home automation communication technology that allowed compatible devices to exchange control signals, traditionally over a property's electrical wiring.

• XLR

  XLR is a professional audio connector commonly used for microphones, amplifiers and other AV equipment. It is widely used in professional audio and home-theater installations.

Y

• Yale Smart Lock

  Yale Smart Locks are connected access-control products that allow doors to be operated and monitored using electronic access methods, depending on the model.

• Yard Automation

  Yard automation refers to the automated control of outdoor areas, including garden lighting, irrigation, gates, outdoor entertainment, pergolas and other landscape systems.

Z

• Z-Wave

  Z-Wave is a wireless communication technology designed for smart-home and building automation devices, particularly sensors, switches and controllers.

• Zero-Cross Switching

  Zero-cross switching is a technique where an electrical load is switched close to the zero point of an AC waveform, helping reduce electrical stress and interference.

• Zigbee 3.0

  Zigbee 3.0 is a unified version of the Zigbee standard designed to improve interoperability between different categories of Zigbee devices.

• Zigbee Coordinator

  A Zigbee coordinator manages a Zigbee network and provides the central point through which compatible Zigbee devices can join and communicate.

• Zigbee Mesh Network

  A Zigbee mesh network allows compatible devices to communicate through multiple network paths, helping extend wireless coverage across a property.

• Zigbee Router

  A Zigbee router forwards communication between devices within a Zigbee network and can help extend the coverage of a Zigbee network.

• Zigbee Technology for Smart Home Connectivity

  Learn what Zigbee means, how it works, and how it is used in modern home automation and smart-home systems.