Window coverings and solar protection manufacturer Somfy Systems is launching several new products and services at CEDIA Expo 2024, including a new range of Sonesse 40 PoE motors, a new web app for service and support for Somfy motorized shading installations, and new partnerships.
Somfy Showcases Sonesse 40 PoE Motor Range
At this year’s CEDIA Expo, Somfy will be showcasing its new Sonesse 40 PoE motor range, a customizable solution for larger-sized applications of window coverings that offers system integrators the flexibility of PoE technology via single Cat-5e/Cat-6 Ethernet cable.
According to Somfy, PoE reduces the amount of time and cabling requires, resulting in a faster and less labor-intensive installation. Since no dedicated AC electrical wiring or electrical outlet is needed, systems integrators can handle the installation without a licensed electrician and without being constrained by the proximity of electrical outlets.
Because PoE is inherently compatible with IP networked systems, Sonesse 40 PoE motor-driven shades and screens can be easily integrated into a complete smart home network, the company says, adding that additional PoE motor-driven products and devices can be added to the network.
Somfy says the Sonesse 40 PoE motors provide a full range of options, available in three sizes–2, 4 and 6Nm–to operate even the largest of applications. The adoption of the new IEEE 802.3bt Standard enables PoE switches to deliver up to 90W, which is significantly more power than the original 15W IEEE 802.3af standard. As a result, a wider range of powered devices can be supported on the network, including 6Nm motors for shades.
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Somfy bills the Sonesse 40 PoE as quiet and compact despite being “one of the strongest and most robust motors on the market.” The motor features smaller tube profiles to help preserve visual aesthetics.
Enhancing the Sonesse 40 PoE motor is the Somfy Synergy API, which the company says allows for simple integration with leading third-party control systems, like Control4, Crestron, Crestron Home, URC, ELAN, and RTI. This precludes the need for additional gateways and user interfaces to operate window shades, and with Somfy’s PoE Motor Configuration Software, systems integrators can easily configure multiple motor-driven products or devices over IP from a single interface. Safety and control features are also built in, including adjustable speed, soft start and stop, and motor position feedback to maintain privacy and security.
New Web Application Debuts to Help with Motorized Shading Installs
Somfy is also launching its Serve-e-Go web application for service and support for Somfy motorized shading installations when using Zigbee motors.
According to Somfy, systems integrators can streamline workflows and increase customer satisfaction by proactively monitoring and managing projects remotely. When using the Somfy TaHoma switch, which supports as many as 60 Somfy Zigbee motors, Serv-e-Go gives systems integrators real-time insight into projects of all sizes. Information includes battery level, radio transmission range, shading speed, device status, and alerts offer an unprecedented level of control and visibility.
From a web-based platform, integrators can monitor Somfy-powered projects to remotely diagnose and resolve issues, modify settings, execute software updates, and offer guided troubleshooting tips to customers.
Somfy Partners up at CEDIA Expo 2024
Somfy is also teaming up with 12 exhibitors at CEDIA Expo to demonstrate its broad range of motors, and is offering its booth visitors a special CEDIA Expo passport that navigates attendees to the many exhibits powered by Somfy. Visitors will be able to see Somfy motors in action, learn about their unique capabilities and features, and find a solution that combines the right motor and integration drivers for their current and upcoming projects.
Once integrators have filled their passport and returned it to Somfy booth #1732, they will be entered in a drawing to win prizes.
Attendees can visit CEDIA Expo exhibits of the following manufacturers to see Somfy-enabled shades and screens in action:
- Draper (Booth #3907 and at Destination Outdoors)
- Graber (Booth #3547)
- Clara Shades (Booth #C1317)
- Insolroll (Booth #1633)
- Snap One-Clara Shades Powered by Somfy (Booth #1512)
- ADI-Clara Shades Powered by Somfy (Booth #2533)
- Stewart Filmscreen (Booth #2709)
- Epson (Meeting Rooms #208 and #210)
- URC (Booth #2118)
- Screen Innovations (Booth #1928)
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