New multisensor for building automation and the Internet of Things (IoT)

EnOcean’s new solar-powered multisensor represents a step change in capability for self-powered wireless sensors, providing monitoring and reporting of five separate parameters from a solar cell, integrated into a single case. The EnOcean STM 550 combines sensors for temperature, humidity, lighting, acceleration and magnetic contact within a single case, offering data for a wide range of applications in digitized buildings and the IoT.

Oberhaching, April 27, 2020 – EnOcean, the pioneer of energy harvesting, has developed a new multisensor, the all-round talent among self-powered wireless sensors. In the new original PTM form factor the sensor module supplies data for a wide range of applications in digitized buildings and the IoT. The integrated solar cell generates all the energy required for operation – both for measurement and for data communication. The gathered energy is stored internally to ensure that the sensor will function even when there is little or no light. This means that the self-powered sensor can be used flexibly in buildings. Moreover, it can easily be configured and commissioned via an NFC (Near Field Communication) interface.

EnOcean is constantly creating new developments in the field of battery-free wireless technology as digitization advances through IoT, making buildings intelligent and sustainable. Thanks to energy harvesting, the power generation through movement, light and temperature differences, EnOcean products are both self-powered and maintenance-free and therefore can be used flexibly and exactly where data is needed.

New sensor module in the standardized form factor

The new STM 550 multisensor family combines temperature, humidity, lighting, acceleration and magnetic contact sensors in a small case. The multisensor is available both for the EnOcean wireless standard and for Bluetooth^® systems. This makes the sensor particularly attractive for a variety of applications in the IoT and in digitized buildings. For the first time, EnOcean has transferred the original PTM form factor of its proven PTM switch module to sensors, so the multisensor module fits into all common switch frames. Manufacturers of existing switch solutions based on the PTM module therefore only need to develop new front panels adapted to the respective frame design. The new multisensor is also available as Easyfit product, which allows new applications to be implemented quickly. Thanks to the integrated solar cell, the sensor supplies itself with energy independently and stores it for uninterrupted operation over several days with little or no light. It also sends reports on the internal energy level and the amount of light available on the solar cell. As a result, STM 550 operates completely maintenance-free. Being a wireless product, the multisensor can be flexibly installed anywhere in the room. It can also be integrated directly into a wide variety of assets and therefore can be used exactly where the data is needed: on walls, ceilings, windows, doors, furniture, active devices such as air conditioners, towel dispensers and objects such as printers, copiers, medical equipment or vending machines.

“The increasing spread of IoT applications requires more and more data that can be generated maintenance-free and in real time in any place,” says Matthias Kassner, Vice President Product Marketing, EnOcean GmbH. “The new EnOcean multisensor supplies exactly this data. Thanks to the widely used original PTM form factor it can be quickly integrated into existing customer designs, enabling innovative sensor solutions to be implemented in the shortest possible time.”

Commissioning via NFC

The multisensor has an integrated NFC interface for easy configuration and commissioning. All that is needed is a computer with an NFC reader or an NFC-capable smartphone or tablet. EnOcean’s own app “EnOcean Tool” serves as the configuration interface between the multisensor and the smartphone. It can be used to determine important product parameters and to integrate the multisensor into existing systems. The app is available free of charge for iOS and Android.

Kopp expands portfolio with multisensor

Heinrich Kopp GmbH, supplier for innovative and high-quality solutions in the fields of switch systems, mobile personal protection, building automation and e-mobility, already has the new multisensor in use.

“The self-powered multisensor supports our idea of a comprehensive house automation concept outstandingly. Thanks to its flexible use, we can detect a wide range of situations and are able to let corresponding scenarios and reactions of the building automation take place”, says Stephan Dörrschuck, CEO of Heinrich Kopp GmbH. “The smooth integration via Bluetooth fits perfectly into our strategy of a simple and intuitive installation. We are pleased that this cooperation has come about.”

Eltako implements multisensor into their switch frames

Eltako, one of the leading companies in the development, manufacture and sale of switchgear, power supply units and electronic power meters, has also added the new multisensor to its product portfolio: “The solar multisensor is the perfect addition to our extensive product range”, Ulrich Horst Ziegler, CEO of Eltako, states. “Due to the original PTM form factor, we can easily integrate the sensor into our switch designs and thus provide the end user with an unprecedented range of functions. Additionally, we have also developed a mini housing for the wireless mini-multisensor FMMS44. We are very excited about this new sensor all-rounder.”