Efficient commissioning of room automation systems thanks to wireless networking

Is the installation of radio-based systems in buildings less complex?

BLE wireless technology enables quick and uncomplicated installation without laying data cables. Unlike conventional bus systems such as Modbus, KNX, or BACnet, which require complex cabling, Bluetooth-enabled systems can be integrated into the building with minimal disruption due to minimal structural requirements. This leads to significantly simpler and more cost-effective installation. The advantages at a glance:

• Eliminates cable runs: BLE solutions do not require additional data cables, which drastically reduces labor and material costs.
• Fast installation: Sensors and control devices can be wirelessly networked and are immediately functional. Complex structural measures or cable routes are not required, which significantly simplifies the installation of sensors and control units.
• Flexibility in device placement: With Bluetooth Low Energy, sensors and actuators can be flexibly placed in the room and easily repositioned as needed. Thanks to wireless networking, the installation of a radio-based room automation system with Bluetooth Low Energy can be implemented faster and more efficiently than with wired systems.

Does networking via Bluetooth mesh simplify system commissioning?

In contrast to conventional bus systems, which often require technical knowledge and complex programming, a Bluetooth-based system is easy to set up. Intuitive apps facilitate the quick and seamless commissioning of BLE-enabled devices in the building. BLE components can be integrated into the Bluetooth mesh network and platform with just a few clicks. Devices are configured via an intuitive user interface, allowing even less tech-savvy individuals to perform configuration remotely. Direct physical access to the devices is not required, provided they are powered. During the initial commissioning of a building, the integration of many new BLE components can be performed simultaneously in bulk, eliminating the need for time-consuming manual configuration of each individual device. Changes and adjustments to devices already connected in an operating network can be initiated remotely in real time, further increasing the flexibility and efficiency of the system. In addition to device configuration, the control logic for decentralized room automation is also stored in the platform, allowing functions such as lighting and blind control or the control of heating valves for HVAC components to be carried out automatically. The independent and flexible concept of a BLE system thus ensures optimal ease of use and, thanks to its speed and simplicity, reduces commissioning time and training requirements for the deployed personnel.

What advantages does Bluetooth-based networking offer after initial commissioning?

BLE wireless networking is easy to expand and scale. A BLE-based room automation system can easily adapt to changing room requirements without requiring structural changes. Unlike bus systems, which often require significant structural changes, wireless technology allows new sensors and actuators to be integrated directly into the Bluetooth mesh. This allows building operations to be maintained without major disruption. BLE technology’s flexibility also makes it perfect for subsequent tenant fit-outs in new buildings or for dynamic environments where room concepts can be flexibly adapted.

What aspects should be considered when comparing BLE wireless networking vs. conventional, wired bus systems?

Criterion	Wireless networking via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE)	Wired bus system
Installation time	Fast, as no cabling is required	Long, due to cabling and structural measures
Installation costs	Low, due to minimal material requirements	High, due to cabling and materials
Flexibility	High flexibility and easy expansion	Limited, wired expansion
Commissioning	User-friendly, quick configuration	Requires specialist knowledge and programming
Maintenance effort	Low, as it is energy-efficient and low-maintenance	Higher, often restricted access
Update and stability	Automatic over-the-air (OTA) updates of BLE components via remote access	Manual updates by technical personnel directly on-site at the devices
Security & Access	Typically end-to-end encrypted mesh and platform connection	Open data line, unprotected access and interference

Is Bluetooth Low Energy wireless technology future-proof?

BLE is an energy-saving technology that is compatible with modern mobile devices and IoT platforms. The energy-efficient BLE technology ensures a long service life and low operating costs. Furthermore, the underlying Bluetooth standard is continuously being developed further, thus remaining future-proof and sustainable.

Conclusion

Commissioning a sensor-based, decentralized room automation system with BLE wireless networking offers numerous advantages over wired bus systems. The simple installation of wireless components, the fast and mass-market remote commissioning, and the lower technical requirements for personnel result in minimized effort, lower costs, and less dependence on skilled labor shortages. All this makes a Bluetooth-supported mesh system like BlueRange the ideal choice for modern buildings – both new and existing. The BlueRange platform, with its partner network, offers numerous integrated component manufacturers with which sensor-based, decentralized room automation can be optimally implemented. The BLE-based BlueRange Mesh enables presence- and demand-based control of networked building components such as lighting, heating, cooling, ventilation, and shading, thus ensuring energy-efficient building operation and an optimal indoor climate.