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Press release:

Digital sun protection is on its way
Roller shutters and sun protection systems can now be controlled using standard signals. Further attractive advantages have been added to the previous features thanks to a standardized communication technology. The digital interface SMI for drives forms the backbone of the new roller shutter and sun protection systems. SMI is the abbreviation for Standard Motor Interface, and has been developed together as a result of the initiative taken by major European manufacturers. The Light + Building Fair 2004 in Frankfurt represents a further milestone for the industry in their joint project. Until the Fair five drive manufacturers will have certified roller shutter and sun protection drives with the new SMI digital motor interface. The certification ensures a quality standard for drives and interface. Thus the industry already has a number of products available that possess these new and advanced features. The SMI Working Group will be giving out information at Stand B21 in Hall 9.1 at the Light + Building Fair from April 18th to 22nd.

New functions provide additional benefits
Drives with an SMI interface position more precisely, provide feedback, and considerably simplify the electrical installation. Up to 16 SMI drives can be electrically connected in parallel, but can nevertheless be controlled individually if required. For the manufacturers of roller shutter and sun protection drives the standard interface opens up additional opportunities. New intelligent functions such as adjustment or monitoring of the number of revolutions can be configured to meet the customer’s specific requirements via the standard interface – a significant advantage for manufacturers of drives and sun protection systems.

Agent for the SMI initiative 
The SMI Working Group is the agent for this joint initiative (www.smi-group.com). Seven companies, manufacturers of drives, control systems or sun protection systems, are amongst the founding members. Eight further companies support the joint venture as Partners or Supporters.