SMI - Standard Motor Interface
The Leading Standard for Motor Control
SMI (Standard Motor Interface) is an open communication protocol designed specifically for the automation of shading devices. Unlike conventional motor systems, SMI technology allows for bidirectional communication between the motor and the control system, enabling enhanced control, monitoring, and diagnostics.
Vestamatic is a leading supplier of motors and control systems utilising SMI technology, with over 100,000 SMI products installed in projects worldwide.
Key Features
- Precise and consistent control of motorised blinds.
SMI motor’s receive and execute digital commands down to millimetre-level adjustments. This precision is critical in environments where optimal light control and energy efficiency are necessary, such as in office buildings or residential spaces.
- Bidirectional Communication.
SMI motors can send feedback to the control system, providing real-time information on the exact position, operational status, and any potential faults. This allows for proactive maintenance and better system management.
- Multi-Motor Synchronisation:
SMI technology supports the synchronized operation of multiple motors, ensuring that all connected shading devices move in unison. This is particularly useful in large installations, such as commercial buildings with multiple windows, where uniform shading is required.
- Diagnostic and Maintenance Capabilities:
The ability of SMI motors to communicate their operational status and any fault conditions back to the control system simplifies maintenance. Building managers can monitor motor performance remotely, identifying and addressing issues before they lead to system failures, thus minimising downtime.
SMI Products from Vestamatic
SMI Tubular Motors
230VAC and 24VDC
SMI Side and Centre Motors
24VDC
SMI Block Motors
230VAC
SMI Controllers
230VAC and 24VDC
- Vestamatic SMI motors and controls
Engineered and manufactured in-house in Germany.
- Greatly reduced cabling and connection points
Up to 60% less using Vestamatic BUSbar technology.
- SMI parallel connections
Up to 75% less controls required, using Vestamatic motors and control solutions.
- Vestamatic prefabricated plug & play cabling
Reduces installation time on-site and reduces potential wiring errors.
Vestamatic SMI Projects
Comparing SMI Motors to Conventional Motors
SMI Drives x16 Motors
- Motors are individually addressable - digitally
- Parallel connection – one source of power
- Simple clamp connection, x16 motors per BUSbar
- Two-way communication with real-time feedback
- One power source supports up to 16 drives on a BUSbar
Conventional Drives x16 Motors
- Motors are not addressable
- Each motor requires wiring back to a motor control.
- Wiring between controls required
- No status feedback from motor
- Power required per motor controller – typically 4 per 16 drives
SMI (Standard Motor Interface) is a universal 5-pole BUS-System to connect motors and controls for shading and window applications. This way – products from different manufacturers using SMI technology can be seamlessly combined.
SMI therefore connects easily to building management systems using KNX, LON, Modbus, BACNET, RS485, and RS232 technology. As a standard it offers supplier independence, the future proofing of products connected to IOT and allows installations with less components.
SMI is the go-to for investors, architects and consultants in achieving the highest building standards, globally.
Contact Vestamatic to learn more about our SMI motor and control technology for your next project.