KNX updates building control software tool

In order to satisfy the latest technical, economic and global demands, the KNX Association has redesigned its Engineering Tool Software (ETS) - a standardised tool that helps building control engineers improve energy efficiency of buildings.

The top improvements include:

Wireless components now easier to integrate

With the new ETS5, it is now possible for the first time to work with all media without exception: not just wired media (bus line, Powerline and EtherNet/IP), as previously, but now also wireless radio frequency (KNX RF) media. It is therefore possible to use ETS to parameterise and set up KNX RF devices from various manufacturers in exactly the same way as KNX TP, PL and IP devices - a major advantage when upgrading existing buildings with KNX.

No database for a leaner, more flexible program

Numerous improvements have been made to the IT system environment, simplifying installation and making ETS work faster. One key change in this respect in ETS5 is the absence of a database. This speeds up the import and export of the data.

Storing the latest project data in a dongle

Dongle licences are very popular among professionals because they mean that ETS can be used on more than one computer. A new dongle is being launched on the market at the same time as ETS5 that is smaller than the previous dongles and contains 4 GB of storage for user data. This will simplify handling and allow more flexible project administration.

64-bit technology makes big projects small

In contrast to its predecessor, ETS5 can now also function as a 64-bit application. This means it offers full power using all system resources, plus increased speed. The resulting time savings are particularly beneficial in the case of large projects. For the first time ETS5 and the previous versions ETS4 and ETS3 can be installed together on the same computer.