Smart Building Control with KNX
Flexible, Scalable, and Future-Proof
Modern building control calls for smart solutions that adapt to evolving needs. At Theben, we believe in the power of KNX – the global standard for intelligent building automation. Whether you’re specifying a new build, upgrading an existing facility, or looking to streamline multi-trade control in one system, KNX from Theben offers unmatched flexibility, integration, and reliability.
How KNX Building Automation Functions
KNX operates as an open, internationally recognised building automation standard that allows diverse systems — including lighting, heating, ventilation and shading — to communicate and work together intelligently.
In a KNX-based system, sensors detect changes in the environment (such as light levels or presence) and send signals over the KNX network. Actuators then interpret those signals to carry out actions like switching lights, dimming, adjusting blinds or regulating temperature.
This distributed architecture enables control either automatically via sensors, manually via wall switches or through centralised visualisation interfaces such as a smartphone, tablet or dedicated software.
The Basics of Smart Building Control
Smart building control system is a building automation approach based on the open KNX standard, allowing different building systems to communicate through one unified network. Instead of operating lighting, climate, and shading separately, a smart building control system connects them so they work together in a coordinated way. This improves control, simplifies management, and supports consistent performance across the building.
Because a smart building control system is built on an internationally recognised standard, it is suitable for both simple and complex applications. It can be used in private homes, offices, education facilities, healthcare environments, hotels, and large commercial buildings. The system remains flexible, scalable, and future-ready, making it a long-term solution rather than a short-term fix.
Smart Building Control with KNX
Smart Building Control with KNX is designed for buildings that need reliable, connected control across multiple systems without unnecessary complexity. At Theben, our experienced team works closely with property owners, facilities managers, and developers to deliver building automation that supports comfort, efficiency, and long-term flexibility. Smart building control systems bring lighting, heating, ventilation, shading, and security together into one coordinated system. This approach helps your building respond intelligently to real usage while remaining adaptable as requirements change over time.
Why Choose Theben for KNX?
As one of the original pioneers of KNX technology, Theben has been at the forefront of innovation for decades. We’re proud to be:One of the founding members of the KNX Association
An active contributor to the KNX Executive and Technology Committees
The first manufacturer to launch KNX RF actuators using the Data Secure standard
Today, we offer a full range of KNX-certified products designed for security, performance, and seamless integration, trusted by professionals across the globe.
Key Benefits of KNX Building Automation
Choosing KNX means choosing a future-proof system built to adapt and evolve. Here are just a few of the benefits:
- Simplified planning, even for complex control requirements
- Seamless integration across multiple trades and systems
- Scalable and flexible – easily reprogrammed and extended
- Central control and visualisation of building systems
- Lower energy and operating costs through automation
- Greater occupant comfort with intelligent control
- High investment security thanks to a globally recognised open standard
Reliability and Scalability in KNX Systems
Because KNX is an open, global standard, it supports systems that can be easily reprogrammed or extended without the need for rewiring, allowing buildings to adapt to changing requirements over time.
Centralised control and visualisation — achievable through visualisation software or mobile devices — supports both simple and complex automation needs within one unified platform.
This adaptability contributes to greater occupant comfort, streamlined management of building systems and a foundation that can evolve as technology and needs change.
Advantages of Smart Building Control
Smart Building Control with KNX allows you to manage multiple building functions through a single automation framework. Lighting, heating, ventilation, and shading can respond together based on time schedules, sensor input, or user preferences. This coordinated control reduces conflicts between systems and improves overall efficiency. By using a KNX backbone, your building operates more smoothly and predictably.
Buildings are used differently throughout the day, and a smart building control system is designed to adapt to these changes. Sensors trigger lighting and climate adjustments based on occupancy and conditions. Manual control remains available when needed. This balance ensures comfort while keeping control straightforward.
A smart building control system supports long-term growth without disruption. You can start with a basic setup and expand over time as needs evolve. Additional KNX products can be added without replacing existing infrastructure. This flexibility protects your investment and supports phased development.
A smart building control system reduces unnecessary energy use by automating systems based on real demand. Lighting and climate operate only when required. Over time, this leads to lower operating costs and improved building performance. Energy efficiency is achieved without compromising comfort.
KNX is an open, internationally recognised standard that avoids dependence on proprietary systems. This ensures long-term compatibility, support, and flexibility. A smart building control system remains relevant as technology advances. Reliability is built into the system design.
Theben KNX Products
Our KNX range covers everything from everyday applications to high-spec custom solutions. All products are engineered for performance, longevity, and data security:
- KNX presence and motion detectors – for efficient lighting and HVAC control
- KNX actuators and RF actuators – reliable switching, dimming, heating and shutter control
- KNX push-button interfaces – stylish, intuitive controls
- Weather stations and sensors – for dynamic, weather-based control
- KNX-DALI gateways – seamless lighting system integration
KNX Data Secure for Communication Integrity
KNX Data Secure protects communication across the KNX bus and radio frequency (RF) devices against unauthorised access or tampering.
This security measure is built into Theben’s KNX product range and reflects modern expectations for communication integrity and system stability in building automation.
Real-World Applications: What Can KNX Do?
With KNX, the possibilities are extensive:
- Smart lighting with dimming, presence detection and orientation lighting
- Blind and shutter control with sun tracking
- Room climate management with CO₂ sensors
- Temperature control via fan coil actuators
- Energy optimisation across multi-use buildings
If you can imagine it, KNX from Theben can deliver it.
How It Works: The KNX System Architecture
Think of KNX as the nervous system of a building:
- Sensors detect environmental changes (light, temperature, presence)
- Actuators carry out commands (switching, dimming, heating, shading)
- All devices communicate via the KNX bus – independent of the power supply
KNX supports multiple topologies – line, star, or tree – and is highly scalable. A single KNX installation can handle up to 58,000 devices, organised hierarchically with line and area couplers.
ETS: Engineering Tool Software for KNX
All KNX installations are programmed and configured using ETS (Engineering Tool Software) a powerful, manufacturer-independent tool developed by the KNX Association.
ETS enables full control over every device, scene and logic condition in a system. It also allows you to reprogram and reconfigure installations at any time, without rewiring or hardware changes.
Theben KNX devices are fully ETS-compatible and certified by independent test labs to ensure seamless integration and long-term reliability.
Built-in Security: KNX Data Secure
As buildings become smarter and more connected, so does the need for robust security. KNX Data Secure protects communication across the bus and RF devices against unauthorised access or tampering.
Theben was the first manufacturer worldwide to introduce KNX RF actuators with Data Secure in 2019 – and we continue to lead in this space with a full range of secure KNX devices.
How Theben Supports KNX Specification and Integration
Theben’s KNX products are available through approved UK distributors, enabling professionals to specify and integrate KNX building automation solutions with confidence.
Whether the project involves new builds, facility upgrades or multi-trade integration, Theben’s broad KNX product range and documented technical information support accurate system planning and consistent performance.
Making Building Automation Easier with Our Smart Control
Smart Building Control with KNX gives you coordinated, future-ready automation designed around how buildings are actually used. With professional support from Theben, you can install KNX solutions that improve control, efficiency, and long-term performance. Book an appointment today, call 01237 751 546, or visit Theben Automation Ltd, 36 Bear Street, Barnstaple, North Devon, EX32 7BZ, and follow us on YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to explore real projects and practical insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
We use KNX as an open international standard that brings together key building functions such as lighting, heating, ventilation and shading into one intelligent system. By connecting these functions, we help you run your building more efficiently and comfortably. Whether your project is new or existing, KNX gives you a reliable foundation for modern automation. Our goal is to make control simple, centralised and easy to manage.
We have been involved with KNX technology since the very beginning and continue to contribute to its development today. Our experience means we understand how to design systems that are secure, stable and future-proof. We offer a complete range of KNX products that work seamlessly together. By choosing us, you benefit from proven expertise and long-standing involvement in the KNX community.
We support KNX installations in a wide range of environments, including offices, universities, hotels, museums, healthcare facilities and private homes. The system adapts to the needs of each building, whether you require simple control or more advanced automation. We design KNX solutions to work at any scale — from single rooms to entire complexes. This makes it suitable for both small projects and large, multi-use buildings.
We give you several ways to manage your KNX setup, including manual control through switches, sensor-based automation or central control via smartphone, tablet or visualisation software. This makes it easy for you to adjust settings, monitor energy use or manage multiple functions from one place. Our aim is to give you full flexibility in how you interact with your building.
We help you create a building that is efficient, adaptable and ready for the future. With KNX, you gain a system that can evolve over time, integrate new functions and remain stable as your needs change. Our solutions bring together multiple trades into one coordinated platform. This gives you a smarter, more streamlined building that is easier to control and maintain.
UK KNX Distributors

Ivory Egg
02038543555
sales@ivoryegg.co.uk
www.ivoryegg.co.uk

Bemco
0208 874 0404
london@bemco.co.uk
www.bemco-knx.co.uk

My KNX Store
0191 497 0777
team@myknxstore.co.uk
www.myknxstore.co.uk

Home of Technologies
0207 9988 252 option 1
office@homeoftechnologies.com
www.knxshoponline.co.uk

KNX Ireland
0283 025 3612
rps@knxireland.com
www.knxireland.com