Barix Barionet IP Controllers Integrated with MAC-based XTension Home Automation Solution

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Barionet and Barionet 50 support released in XTension home automation software – introductory special is available through end of 2009

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND, December 17, 2009 — Barix AG, a pioneer in IP-based audio, intercom, control, and monitoring, announces that XTension, a leading MAC-based home automation application, has implemented full support for Barix’ range of Barionet intelligent IP controller devices.

Barionet devices, including the new Barionet 50, are low-cost, fully programmable IP Automation controllers.  They are ideal for interfacing devices, real-world sensors and actors to open, IP-based networks.  No device programming is required for use with XTension.

XTension is a mature MAC-based automation software of choice by many home owners and businesses for automating homes and commercial buildings, and was originally built to command low-cost home control hardware.  By adding Barionet support, XTension users can seamlessly integrate sensors and controls by deploying IP connected Barionet devices.  Barionet serial ports, which are accessible directly from XTension, provide interfacing to several X10 serial controllers.

“Reliable connectivity over IP networks at a reasonable cost is exactly what is needed to enable full control of homes and businesses,” said Michael Ferguson, owner of Sand Hill Engineering, the creator of XTension.  “The dream comes true with Barionet by creating an easy interface to hardware without cabling limits or driver issues.  We are proud to announce Barionet support in XTension.”


The Barionet family IP controllers of Barix are modular components that can operate in a standalone fashion or connected to other systems via a choice of standard IP protocols (Modbus/TCP, SNMP, cgi, ASCII protocols).  Since 2003, the devices have been used in professional applications such as access control, machine data collection, power generator supervision and environmental monitoring of everything from temperature to water pressure.  Barionet devices are well-positioned not only for home automation applications, but also for energy metering and intelligent, green building control. Being fully programmable, control and data collection functionality as well as serial protocol implementations can be loaded into the device for standalone operations.

“At $179 retail, the Barionet 50 is an ideal I/O gateway for automation packages like XTension.  Whether controlling temperature probes in heating systems, light sensors, garage doors or serving as a serial interface at a remote location, the Barionet will do the job reliably and inexpensive,” said Johannes G. Rietschel, CEO and Founder of Barix AG.  “The device works as a generic I/O interface for higher end systems out of the box.  Barix also provides a free programming environment and example applications to those who want to customize the device and implement protocols and control algorithms.  Furthermore, the built-in web server can serve user-specific pages, which can contain data generated by the control program or the various units.”

XTension users benefit from special discounted pricing through the end of 2009.  More information can be found at http://www.shed.com/barispec.html.

All Barix products are inexpensive, low-power devices that are scalable to the growth of the operation; offer reliability through a PC-FREE design with no moving parts; and serve as a flexible platform for integration into virtually any operation requiring audio transport and delivery.  A green footprint is achieved with very low power requirements, high reliability and RoHS compliance.  Barix also offers its programmable BCL standard open to all customers to easily tailor applications for specific needs.  Local control, audio relay, and low-latency streaming are a few examples of custom programs using Barix’s BCL software environment.