What is the difference between the RTS protocol and Somfy IO-Homecontrol
Roller shutters have become a popular solution for light and heat management in many homes. However, with technological advancements, you have the ability to control them remotely using different communication protocols. Two of the most commonly used protocols are RTS and Somfy's IO-Homecontrol.
Although they have similar goals, these protocols have significant differences in functionality and control options. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the differences between Somfy's RTS protocol and IO-Homecontrol to help you choose which one best suits your roller shutter needs.
The Somfy RTS protocol
The RTS (Radio Technology Somfy) protocol is a proprietary format created by Somfy to meet the demand for remote control by transmitter. It uses a monodirectional communication protocol with a 433 MHz radio frequency and allows different RTS Somfy equipment to communicate with each other.
This protocol is widely used due to the reputation of the Somfy brand and its global reach.
Somfy's RTS protocol has extensive compatibility with several technologies:
- Z-Wave®: It is a two-way RF mesh network technology used for residential and light commercial automation applications.
- Zigbee®: This is a low-power RF mesh networking technology protocol that uses the reliable 2.4 Ghz standard for residential and commercial applications.
- Power over Ethernet: This technology allows bidirectional integration of the shade on a local network1.
- Dry Contact: Input for basic low voltage control compatible with most home automation systems.
The IO-Homecontrol® protocol
The IO-Homecontrol® protocol is a format born from the collaboration of several manufacturers of home products and equipment (See the image below). It provides status feedback and precise control of equipment position.
Its particularity lies in the fact that it is secured by an encryption key dedicated to each installation, thus providing increased security for users. IO-Homecontrol is integrated as a multi-brand wireless technology, used by major players such as Velux, CIAT, Atlantic, and Window Master
It uses a two-way radio communication protocol with a radio frequency of 868.95 MHz. With IO-Homecontrol you can control various solar shading, lighting, heating or alarm systems in your home, using a smart network. These systems can be opened or closed using a button or automatically at a pre-programmed time.
Almost all types of roller shutters can be equipped with radio reception and ccontrolled using a flexible or wall-mounted handheld transmitter. By adding a TaHoma box , you can control and network your blinds via a smartphone or tablet, regardless of your location.
IO-Homecontrol offers the possibility of adding other compatible devices and weather sensors to gradually convert your home into a smart home. You can schedule schedules for when you're working or during the weekend, and set the shades to automatically open or close depending on the weather.
For example, even on a very sunny day, it stays cool inside, and during a storm, the solar shading system automatically retracts to a protected position.
Your extended smart home system can range from cameras and smoke detectors to garage doors, central heating thermostats and even motion and opening detectors. It is compatible with systems from other manufacturers, such as smart lighting systems from Philips Hue, Sonos sound systems or even voice control systems like Alexa (Amazon), Apple Homekit or Google Assistant.
Comparison between RTS and IO Homecontrol technology
Given the small difference in price between the two protocols (IO and RTS), here is our advice, depending on your installation and use:
 |  |
|---|---|
Technology exclusive to Somfy products | Technology used by partner brands of the IO Homecontrol protocol (See image above) |
Monodirectional Protocol: only the transmitter has the capacity to send an order to the receiver. The receiver is not able to transmit information. | Bidirectional Protocol: information is sent in both directions. The receiver is, for example, informed of the transmitter that he has carried out the requested operation. |
The different Somfy products can be controlled together or separately from the same control point. It is necessary that the products use RTS technology | The common use of the IO protocol by major brands (Velux, Atlantic, Ciat, etc.) allows broader communication of your equipment. It is possible to control all your equipment using the easily compatible protocol. |
The RTS protocol is recommended when: -Your installation is limited to the motorization of a few openings and you do not have a long-term plan. -You are not interested in feedback on a general order. -Your installation already includes equipment using the RTS protocol -Price is an important factor in the development of your installation. | The IO protocol is recommended when: - You want to have remote monitoring of the operation of your equipment in real time. - Your medium/long term project is to centralize more electrical equipment using the IO protocol. - You do not have RTS equipment within your installation. - Your project concerns a new house which does not yet have any equipment. |
RTS and IO equipment are not compatible with each other. It is therefore wise to use the same protocol within your installation.
We often wonder about the impact of radio equipment in a habitat. Please note that for this type of equipment the radio emission is in the milliwatt range and the usage time is of the order of a few seconds per day.
For comparison, the emission and usage time of a phone would be 1000 times greater .
Equipment compatibility with the Tahoma box
List of compatibility with the Tahoma box (November 2020)
Learn more about IO HOME CONTROL
No posts found
Write a review