Communication Protocols (CEDIA ELECTRONIC SYSTEMS TECHNICAL REFERENCE MANUAL Book 9)

In order to integrate various devices and subsystems into a seamless, easy to operate, system, it is imperative that communication between the various parts is robust and dependable. As more and more devices in the home become network enabled, many might think that IP will be the only language needed.

This is far from true. Many control functions will continue to be done over the tried-and-true protocols even if only in the last leg of communication. And, the demand for less intrusive retrofit techniques has driven innovation in the form of new ways to carry data and control information over existing infrastructure, as well as wirelessly. So it is extremely important to understand ALL of the various protocols and platforms, old and new.

Many of these protocols and standards will be addressed in this chapter but this is an area which is constantly changing so today’s professionals need to keep up with the industry through trade magazines and various forms of training.

The home technology sector is growing, according to CEDIA’s 2012 Benchmarking Survey, the typical home technology professional company expected staff levels to increase by 10% by the end of 2012. The CEDIA Technical Reference Manual can help prepare you for a career in home technology. Visit www.cedia.net to learn more about the industry.