HomeKit Support on C-Bus Automation Controllers V2

Hi all,

I’m pleased to confirm that a HomeKit application for the 5500NAC2 and 5500AC2 C-Bus automation controllers is now available from the controller App Store.

To use the HomeKit application, the controller must be running firmware version 2.0 or later. We recommend updating to firmware version 2.5, which is the current recommended firmware version at this time.

you can check out our Video on using C-Bus Controllers with Homekit here:

Please note that this HomeKit application is available for the 5500NAC2 and 5500AC2 controllers. The original 5500NAC / 5500SHAC products receive firmware 2.x security and platform updates, but they do not support the newer App Store application framework used by this HomeKit module.

The HomeKit controller application provides native support for many C-Bus functions, with direct and easy mapping to HomeKit device types, including:

• Light Switch
• Light Dimmer
• Shutters and Blinds
  Including direct support for the C-Bus Shutter Relay, L5501RBCP
• Ceiling Fans
  Including direct support for the C-Bus Fan Relay, L5501RFCP
• Window
  Including direct support for the C-Bus Shutter Relay, L5501RBCP
• Outlet Switch
• Temperature and Humidity Sensors
  This makes it easy to expose temperature and humidity values from the latest Saturn and Saturn Zen key input units, as well as C-Bus digital temperature sensors.
• Light Sensor
  For exposing light level values from C-Bus sensors.
• Scene Setting
  Supports setting C-Bus scenes from HomeKit with status feedback.
• Scene Trigger
  Supports triggering C-Bus scenes from HomeKit without state feedback.
• Valve
  For example, using C-Bus relays for irrigation control through HomeKit.

The HomeKit module also makes it easy to add simple sensor types, either directly from C-Bus or using sensors integrated through the 5500AC2 or 5500NAC2 controller via Modbus, scripting, APIs, or other supported integration methods.

The following HomeKit sensor device types can be created using C-Bus lighting/control application groups or controller user parameters:

• Motion Sensor
• Occupancy Sensor
• Smoke Sensor
• Carbon Monoxide Sensor
• Leak Sensor
• Contact Sensor
• Air Quality Sensor

For more advanced integrations, the HomeKit module also exposes a broader range of HomeKit device types. These may require use of controller user parameters, C-Bus applications such as Lighting, Control or Measurement, and in some cases scripting or additional integration logic.

Advanced HomeKit device types include:

• Air Purifier
• Air Quality Sensor
• Door — advanced feedback
• Garage Door Opener — advanced feedback
• Heater and Cooler
• Humidifier and Dehumidifier
• Light Colour Temperature
• Light RGB
• Lock Mechanism
• Security System
• Thermostat
• Valve — advanced feedback
• Window — advanced feedback
• Window Covering — advanced feedback

A multi-add function has also been included to support fast creation of C-Bus-to-HomeKit mappings. This helps reduce setup time when exposing multiple C-Bus groups to HomeKit.

We have also enabled individual naming of each HomeKit device within the application. This is important for creating a better HomeKit user experience, especially for Siri voice control, where clear and natural device names make control much easier for the end user.

A few important recommendations:

• For robust and reliable operation of a C-Bus home, we strongly recommend that critical logic such as scenes, schedules, scripted automation and core control functions remain in the C-Bus system or on the C-Bus automation controller, rather than being implemented only in HomeKit.
• For the best user experience, please follow Apple Home naming conventions when assigning the HomeKit device name.
• If migrating from an unofficial HomeKit app version, it is recommended to reset or remove the old app data, uninstall the unofficial version, then install and configure the official version from the controller App Store.

We look forward to feedback from users and installers as they begin using the official HomeKit module with C-Bus installations.