Cabled or wireless? Smart Home systems explained

Smart Homes can make your life easier in many ways. By way of example, a modern security system will send you alerts on your smartphone in case of emergency. Or you could use automated heating to reduce your energy expenditure. Functions like these (and a lot more) work with either wired or wireless systems.

Which solution is right for you always depends on your living situation and individual needs. You should definitely know the benefits of both options before making a decision. To help you get started, we’ve summed up the most important features and differences.  

KNX is the international standard for connected building technology that enables smart control of functions such as lights, blinds, and heating. This allows you to configure automated processes according to your daily routines: if the heating turns on in the afternoon, for instance, you’ll be welcomed by a cosy warm home after work. A great benefit of cabled KNX systems is that you can connect a huge number of devices from different manufacturers within your Smart Home.

Also based on the green KNX cable, Gira One can be installed by an electrical contractor near you and adapted to your needs. The Gira One system is the right choice for you if you want smart convenience features and would like to benefit from a higher quality of life in your daily routine.

Also based on the green KNX cable, Gira One can be installed by an electrical contractor near you and adapted to your needs. The Gira One system is the right choice for you if you want smart convenience features and would like to benefit from a higher quality of life in your daily routine.

The system offers numerous application and automation options that allow you to easily control and interconnect blinds, heating and lighting. Perhaps you also want to integrate a few additional devices such as Sonos speakers or Phillips Hue lights? If so, Gira One is a perfect match. You can operate the system via buttons for Gira One and KNX, the Gira G1, or even via the Gira Smart Home app while on the go.  

Another advantage: the quick and easy start-up of the system. This is done via the Gira Project Assistant (GPA) with the help of assistant-guided step-by-step instructions and guides you through the entire setup process with intuitive video tutorials. There is also the option of remote maintenance, which eliminates the need for you to organise appointments with the electrical contractor.

Installing a KNX system usually requires a considerable amount of construction work. But that doesn’t mean you can’t make your home smart without cabling: Gira offers several solutions which are easy to retrofit in existing buildings.

You want to automate your home but don‘t even know where to begin? The Gira System 3000 will provide a solid foundation. It can be retrofitted by simply exchanging switch inserts and mounting the top unit of your choice. And just like that, you’re able to adjust lights, blinds, and heating according to your daily routines: manually via switch, automatically based on time schedules, or via app. The Gira System 3000 thus allows you to integrate smart technology with minimum effort.

Overall, you can choose between five types of operating top units – including the Gira System 3000 touch top unit or the operating top unit Bluetooth. In combination with the Gira System 3000 app, you have the option to control lights and blinds according to automated schedules. This proves particularly convenient when you’re not home and want to scare off potential intruders by simulating your presence.

The abbreviation “RF“ stands for “radio frequency“ and refers to a special type of KNX Smart Home: the wireless Gira RF for KNX system can be set up without cabling. All you need is a conventional 230 V installation for switches and socket outlets. Since the system works via radio transmission, you won’t have to lay additional cables or tear open walls. This allows for quick and easy retrofittings in older buildings or rental flats. The functional inserts of the Gira System 3000 thereby serve as the basis for the Gira RF for KNX top units.

Thanks to the independent standard KNX Secure, you can be sure that your data remain protected in both wired and wireless KNX Smart Homes at all times. This includes data integrity, authentication, encryption, and regular updates. With the remote access module Gira S1, you can monitor your Smart Home via app from anywhere just as safely.