Introduction
This information refers mostly to the V1 1604 Control System although
there are references to PMBACS because some of this was written just
prior to development of the new PMBACS hardware.
The 1604 Control System is a general purpose control system that is
well suited to Home Automation, Commercial and Retail lighting and
heating control and also door access control and security alarms.
It's a distributed modular system. It's based on modules that connect
together using data cable and plug in connectors.
Many control systems consist of large (relatively expensive)
centralized control panels. The sensors and devices being controlled
are connected to these panels. The 1604-CS differs in that it
consists of many smaller control modules located throughout the
building. The most common of these is the Smart Switch.
These modules are connected together by a data network. This allows
them to interact, giving the appearance of a much larger and more
complex system.
One advantages of the modular approach is a form of parallel
processing. Many modules can be busy all at the same time without
slowing each other down. This results in very good performance at a
very competitive price. Another advantage is cost proportional to
system size.
A small economical system can consist of one or two modules, a very
large system can consist of hundreds of modules. Unlike the other
systems, there is no need to purchase the expensive control panel
just to get started.
One smart switch or LCP module, a power supply and a couple of small
output modules will provide multiple dimmable lighting circuits,
areas of heating control and security zones; usually for about the
cost as a similar sized security alarm panel.
Additional smart switches and LCP modules can simply be added to
provide more lighting circuits, heating control, security zones and
other functions.
Large systems or those requiring special functions will often include
a Master Controller. This can be a module that sits with the power
supply, or a slightly larger module that provides special expansion features.
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