Earlier this month, LONMARK International announced the release of Version 3.4 of the LONMARK Interoperability Guidelines, making it easier to install open, interoperable devices. The Guidelines include support for self-installed devices and networks further extending the reach of LONMARK certification into consumer products, industrial automation, and other machine-to-machine (M2M) applications.
Recognizing the need for small, simple networks to self-install without the use of installation tools, the 3.4 Guidelines include a newly developed Interoperable Self-Installation (ISI) protocol. Devices using the optional ISI protocol install themselves—either automatically or with the use of a simple push button. Products tested to conform to the ISI protocol will be eligible to carry the new LONMARK ISI logo to help users distinguish products certified to the LONWORKS protocol.
Simplifying development, installation, and maintenance of certified products has been a priority for LONMARK International since its inception. The 3.4 Guidelines include additional compliance requirements for device-response timing, so that each certified device’s performance will be consistent for a greater range of network management tools.
Working closely with various standards organizations around the world, the layout of the 3.4 Guidelines have been modified to make it easier to keep the Guidelines in sync with those submitted to various standards organizations. “The release of Version 3.4 of the Interoperability Guidelines brings us one step closer to the world of plug-and-play connectivity,” says Barry Haaser, executive director of LONMARK International. “The new LONMARK guidelines will give manufacturers the essential tools they need to deliver a new generation of easy to use products for homes, buildings, factories, transportation systems, and other environments.”
The LONMARK Interoperability Guidelines provide manufacturers with details on how to design open, interoperable products based on the LONWORKS® networking platform. Nearly 700 products have been tested and certified as compliant to the LONMARK Interoperability Guidelines.
