Timer Based Controls for Somfy Shade Automation

Simple Somfy Timers, NO PC or Home Automation system required

IR Controlled Automation Interfaces

Take Control of Your RF Based systems with IR

Dry Contact Interfaces for Somfy Shade Automation

Single Channel Interfaces

RS232 and RS485 Automation Interfaces for Somfy Shade Control

16 Channel Interfaces

Multi-Channel Somfy RTS RF Automation Interfaces

RS232, RS485 and IR Remote Interfaces

ALL Somfy RTS Automation Interfaces

    In today's day and age many of us want our homes automated to make life simple. Typically when we think of automation we think of one device controlling many different pieces of equipment. The automation integration is typically being done with advanced home theater remotes or even more advanced computerized automation control systems. These automation devices provide the user with the ability to press one button and the remote send out commands to control many things in one simple step. We call this macro control where the lights might dim, the TV turns on, the Shades lower etc all with one button press. Automation also allows for timer based control of devices so that for instance when you arrive home from work the shades might be up and the lights on the porch are on.

    With most advanced home theater remotes automation control is done via IR signals. Many of the advanced controls systems also have the ability to use RS232 or Dry Contacts. RS232 is a communication protocol that allows automation from many microprocessor based pieces of equipment most commonly computers. Dry contact are essentially relays that open and close based on a command from the system. The contacts simply act as a switch. They can either closed a circuit acting like pressing a button or they can have electricity passing through them to control a circuit.

    One challenge often faced in automation is how one integrates a RF based system that does not allow for IR Control, Dry Contacts or RS232 as in Somfy's case the use of the RF based RTS technology. Avoidance of these types of devices is not the answer as these types of device specifically in Somfy's case have significant control benefits. For Somfy's RTS based technology we have several control interface solutions that can provide RS232 Control, IR Control or Dry Contact Control. We also have a universal automation interface that can actually operate virtually any remote.

    Another potential challenge is that some companies use propriety IR technology that is not learnable. This is the case with Somfy's LT30 System II battery operated roller shades. These types of problems are typically the most challenging to overcome. We do have an automation solution for this as well. Our universal automation interface can be wired to control the Somfy IR remote. The only challenge remaining would be how to maintain line of sight as required by IR controlled devices.