FAQ
TL;DR: ETS Lite supports 20 KNX devices ["KNX ETS6 Licenses"]. "The system is very flexible, but not intuitive" [Elektroda, szorterek, post #19333861] Go fully wired with KNX for one-bus control, keep the alarm separate, and bridge where needed [Elektroda, sk1977, post #19335589]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps renovators plan a reliable wired smart home with Satel/KNX while avoiding costly missteps.
Quick facts:
- KNX ETS: Demo = 5 devices; Lite = 20; Pro = unlimited ["KNX ETS6 Licenses"].
- KNX TP1 bus uses twisted‑pair (typical EIB 2x2x0.8 mm); plan extra power to panels [Elektroda, szorterek, post #19333861]
- KNX PSU + programming interface: approx. 1,000 PLN for entry gear [Elektroda, szorterek, post #19334657]
- ROPAM app: about 20 PLN/year; touch panels available [Elektroda, sk1977, post #19337637]
- Grenton starter kit seen at ~3,500 PLN by user; buy only needed parts [Elektroda, KarizmoGSM, post #19355012][Elektroda, sk1977, post #19355063]
Quick Facts
• KNX ETS: Demo = 5 devices; Lite = 20; Pro = unlimited ["KNX ETS6 Licenses"].
• KNX TP1/EIB bus: typical 2x2x0.8 mm cable; add a second run for panel power [Elektroda, szorterek, post #19333861]
• Budget: KNX power supply + interface ≈ 1,000 PLN to get started [Elektroda, szorterek, post #19334657]
• ROPAM app fee: ~20 PLN/year; offers touch panels and device control [Elektroda, sk1977, post #19337637]
• Starter kits (e.g., Grenton ~3,500 PLN) are for demo/training—select only needed modules [Elektroda, KarizmoGSM, post #19355012][Elektroda, sk1977, post #19355063]
Is Satel Integra + INT-KNX-2 a good wired backbone for an old-house renovation?
Yes, if you want alarm-grade security and KNX automation on one wired stack. Use Satel for SSWiN, and KNX for lighting, HVAC, and scenes. Bridge via INT‑KNX‑2 to exchange states or triggers. Keep the alarm logic separate for safety [Elektroda, KarizmoGSM, post #19333157][Elektroda, szorterek, post #19333861][Elektroda, sk1977, post #19335589]
Which video intercoms work with Satel touch keypads?
Direct keypad-as-intercom support is limited. Many users deploy a dedicated SIP/IP intercom panel and integrate door release via I/O or KNX. The OP noted intercom issues on Satel panels. Use a separate indoor monitor or app for video, and trigger locks via KNX or Satel outputs [Elektroda, KarizmoGSM, post #19333157][Elektroda, sk1977, post #19337637]
How do I get ETS and what hardware do I need to program KNX?
Download ETS from my.knx.org. Demo handles 5 devices; Lite 20; Pro is unlimited. You need a KNX power supply and a programming interface (USB/IP). Expect about 1,000 PLN for basic PSU + interface. A USB dongle activates licensed versions ["KNX ETS6 Licenses"][Elektroda, szorterek, post #19334657]
Is KNX beginner‑friendly compared to Ampio, Loxone, or Grenton?
KNX is powerful, but not intuitive and not cheap. Alternatives like Ampio, Loxone, and Grenton are simpler to set up. Many prefer them for first projects. Quote: "It is neither easy nor cheap" [Elektroda, sk1977, post #19335589][Elektroda, szorterek, post #19333861]
Should I keep the alarm separate from home automation?
Yes. Use a dedicated alarm (Satel or ROPAM) and integrate only high‑level functions. This isolates security and reduces risk from automation changes. Exchange arm states or triggers over KNX or I/O as needed [Elektroda, szorterek, post #19333861][Elektroda, sk1977, post #19335589]
Can one control unit operate my gates, garage, heating, and AC?
Yes. Both Satel and ROPAM can switch gates and relays. Heating and AC depend on model interfaces. ROPAM offers touch panels and an app for device control. Use KNX actuators for fine HVAC control if needed [Elektroda, sk1977, post #19337637]
I want one wall panel to do everything. What are the trade‑offs?
One panel simplifies UX but creates a single point of failure. Some users remove such panels later. Consider separate intercom monitor plus KNX/Satel keypad, all wired. Quote: "Panels for everything are not useful" [Elektroda, sk1977, post #19337793]
How should I wire for KNX and a wall panel during renovation?
Pull KNX TP1 bus cable (typical 2x2x0.8 mm) to each controlled point. To a wall panel, route two cables: one for bus, one for power. For sensors like PIRs, plan bus‑power taps where needed [Elektroda, szorterek, post #19333861]
What’s a simple way to sketch my system plan?
Use paper first. Draw rooms, devices, and buses. Photo it and iterate. Then map devices to actuators and inputs. 3‑step how‑to: 1. List functions per room. 2. Mark cable runs and panel locations. 3. Assign KNX group addresses in ETS later [Elektroda, szorterek, post #19335309]
Where do I start shopping for a small KNX setup?
Minimum: KNX power supply, IP/USB interface, a few actuators, sensors, and panels. Budget about 1,000 PLN for PSU + interface. Add ETS Lite for up to 20 devices to keep costs down ["KNX ETS6 Licenses"][Elektroda, szorterek, post #19334657]
Can video intercom calls to my mobile be fully wired?
Calls to a mobile need IP connectivity, so the path is not end‑to‑end copper. Use a SIP/IP intercom and its app for mobile video. Wire the door strike and KNX/Satel triggers locally for reliability [Elektroda, sk1977, post #19337637]
Underfloor heating: do I need floor sensors in every room?
Use a room thermostat plus a floor temperature limiter in sensitive areas. Typical floor surface limits: ~29°C living rooms, ~33°C bathrooms. That protects finishes and comfort. Sensors at the light switch can work if wired well ["EN 1264 Underfloor heating standard"][Elektroda, KarizmoGSM, post #19355012]
Are starter kits (e.g., Grenton at ~3,500 PLN) a smart buy?
They are for demo or training. Pick only the modules you need. The OP saw ~3,500 PLN, but you can mix components to fit scope and budget [Elektroda, KarizmoGSM, post #19355012][Elektroda, sk1977, post #19355063]
What’s the easiest path if I want wired control with minimal learning curve?
Consider ROPAM with its touch panel and app for gate, heating, and basic automation. Keep CCTV standalone via the manufacturer app. You can add KNX later for advanced scenes [Elektroda, sk1977, post #19337637]
How do I bridge Satel or ROPAM with KNX or other systems?
For Satel↔KNX use INT‑KNX‑2. For other mixes, use dry contact I/O between systems or vendor gateways. Keep security signaling minimal and well‑documented to avoid lockouts [Elektroda, KarizmoGSM, post #19333157][Elektroda, sk1977, post #19335589]
Any gotchas I should budget or plan for?
Factor ETS licensing limits (Demo 5, Lite 20 devices) and hardware. Expect about 1,000 PLN for KNX PSU and interface. Edge case: Over‑centralizing on one panel can halt your home if it fails ["KNX ETS6 Licenses"][Elektroda, szorterek, post #19334657][Elektroda, sk1977, post #19337793]