About LonWorks...

LonWorks refers to a network technology developed by Echelon Corporation, and encompases the network protocol, the special microprocessor chip most commonly used to implement devices on the network, the development tools and the network management tools. The protocol itself is known as LonTalk and has now become an ANSI standard (ANSI/EIA 709.1-A-1999).

The LonTalk protocol follows the OSI Network Reference model for its internal implementation. Enhancements at the application layer provide ready access to data in the form of "network variables". The use of network variables simplify application development, and also promote the interoperability of various devices produced by various manufacturers.

LonTalk differs from protocols such as TCP/IP in the sense that LonTalk is optimized for efficient transmission of small packets, making LonTalk well suited for distributed network control applications. LonTalk also provides direct application level support for peer-to-peer network communication further enhancing the ability to implement control networks. Implementation of a LonWorks device is generally significantly less expensive than implementation of an Ethernet based device. Although LonTalk itself is not suitable for wide area networks (WAN), Ethernet/Internet routers have more recently become available to encapsulate LonTalk in IP packets for delivery by WAN.

Additional information about LonWorks may be found at http://www.echelon.com.