What is LON (LonWorks)?
LON, more formally known as LonWorks (Local Operating Network), is a distributed communication protocol used for building automation, process automation and industrial networks.
It was developed by Echelon Corporation and standardised as ISO/IEC 14908.
🔧 Characteristics of LON
- Distributed intelligence: Each device contains its own logic and memory
- Peer-to-peer communication: No central master required
- Flexible topology: Works with bus, ring, star and daisy chain
- Supports communication via:
- Twisted pair
- Powerline
- IP/Ethernet (via LON/IP)
- Programmable using Neuron chips or software tools (e.g. LonMaker, IzoT)
🏢 Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Building automation | Lighting, HVAC, sun shading, fire safety |
| Public infrastructure | Traffic lights, street lighting, parking management |
| Industry | Distribution centres, production halls, refrigeration plants |
| Energy management | Smart grids, load balancing, data collection |
🌐 LON vs. other protocols
| Protocol | Properties |
|---|---|
| LON | Distributed, flexible, legacy but still in use |
| BACnet | Specifically designed for building management, open standard |
| Modbus | Simple, but less scalable or intelligent |
| KNX | Specifically for residential and building automation |
🔐 Security & integration
- LON offers limited native security (especially in older versions)
- For modern applications, integration with Firewalls, VLANs or SCADA systems via LON/IP gateways is common
- Defense in Depth is recommended when integrating with OT
📌 In summary
LON is a distributed communication protocol for the automation of buildings, infrastructure and industrial applications. It enables decentralised control and is still used in existing installations, particularly in combination with other standards such as BACnet or M-Bus.