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VIKI BrainBOX, a cocktail of technologies: when KNX and DALI meet at the intelligence bar

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

What is the connection between a well-balanced summer cocktail and a smart home system? Simple: both are carefully selected mixes of ingredients that must work perfectly together. If a Piña Colada cools your senses, a well-built VIKI BrainBOX warms your soul… and your home.
And because we like to play and test the limits of technology, one day like any other at the office we found ourselves transforming the laboratory into a high-tech bar: we mixed two top technologies – KNX and DALI, put two existing boards (BASIC + ADVANCED) in a shaker and shook well to obtain… the MAXIMUS of the future.

What did we want to test?
A smart home enthusiast challenged us to integrate more devices than would fit in a single panel. And not only that – he wanted fine-grained control, communication between devices from different manufacturers, and, most importantly, smooth, hassle-free integration. And so the test began.

Test scenario in VIKI BrainBOX LABS:
🔹 We connected a BASIC and an ADVANCED panel in a common setup
🔹 We installed the ABB i-bus DG/S 1.64.1.1 gateway, which does the magic between KNX and DALI – that is, it allows information exchange between the two worlds.
🔹 We used elegant and functional switches such as the KNX Push Button Pro (MTN6185-6034) and the model with Dynamic Labeling 8gang (MTN6194-6010).
🔹 We tested DALI control equipment, including On/Off and dimming actuators from Foxtron.

Everything, to make sure that the telegrams are transferred flawlessly: KNX sends to DALI, DALI sends to VIKI, and VIKI – the brain of the house – understands and acts.

And yes, it worked perfectly!
💡 Ambient lighting reacts as if by book.
📱 Commands can be given from the screen on the wall, from the phone or… can be completely automated.
🧠 VIKI learns how you want the light to be in the evening in the living room or in the morning in the bathroom.
🎯 All these components will soon be part of a new VIKI BrainBOX MAXIMUS panel – custom-made for our enthusiastic client, who will have a 100% personalized smart home.
And we documented everything in a VIDEO which we are sure you are curious to see.

What did we like the most?
That we were in our element. That we felt like explorers in a laboratory of ideas again. That we laughed, changed cables, checked connections and concluded: it’s wonderful when technology becomes friendly and actually works together.
That’s what we do at VIKI. We combine technologies, test, learn and deliver smart systems that not only respond to your commands, but also anticipate them. Because, beyond technology, VIKI knows!

📘 Do you also want a personalized painting for your home? Start here: Download PDF Catalog VIKI BrainBOX.

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VIKI BrainBOX MAXIMUS – the story of a house that knows what you need

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

We like to be prepared with clear solutions for any type of home. That’s why we created two predefined versions of smart electrical panels – VIKI BrainBOX BASIC and VIKI BrainBOX ADVANCED. But, every now and then, a project comes along that challenges us to think beyond the standard. That’s how MAXIMUS was born.

It all started with a special request: a client who was building a house of approximately 250 sq m and who wanted total control over his home, without compromise. The two existing models were no longer enough – more power, more flexibility, more circuits and a personalized approach were needed.

That’s how VIKI BrainBOX MAXIMUS was born – a custom panel, with 400% more managed facilities than the ADVANCED model, with approximately 100 output circuits and 35 smart inputs, designed specifically to meet the needs of this generous home.

What can MAXIMUS do?
MAXIMUS is the heart of the VIKI system, from where all intelligent controls, automations and decisions made based on the behavior of the residents start. Here are some of the functions it manages:

INTERIOR:
– Entrance door control with electromagnetic shutter
– Complete ambient lighting (On/Off, dimming, LED strips, RGBW) with scenarios, VIKI intelligence or app controls
– Automatic water supply shut-off in case of flooding, via solenoid valve
– Integration with underfloor heating system and heat recovery ventilation system
– Automation for curtains, drapes, blinds, roller shutters or awnings
– Monitoring of energy consumption via smart meter, with direct reporting in the app

EXTERIOR:
– Entrance bell and call reader
– Intelligent architectural lighting, with two levels of intensity, motion detection and presence simulation scenarios
– Dedicated lighting for the barbecue area
– Control of access to the yard (gates), garage and pedestrian
– Automated outdoor irrigation
– Dedicated circuit for storage battery and photovoltaic panels

In addition to these functions managed by the panel, the house was also equipped with a series of sensors and smart equipment strategically placed in each area. They constantly communicate with the VIKI server and provide essential information for automated decision-making. We are talking about presence sensors (which also measure temperature, humidity and ambient light), smoke and CO2 sensors, door and window sensors that send alerts or automatically adjust the climate, as well as flood sensors placed in key areas.

In addition, the house benefits from smart features that increase comfort and safety: the system is ready for the integration of a high-performance Home Cinema, ambient sound is distributed to several rooms, and the TVs in the living room can be controlled directly through VIKI. The Wi-Fi connection is optimized for stable coverage in all rooms, and the system automatically detects the presence of family members. It is also integrated with an alarm system, has electrical backup for essential functions and is protected by a reliable voltage regulator.

All these components form the nervous system of the home, and VIKI AI algorithms interpret them to learn the family’s routines, anticipate needs and execute the necessary actions, without anyone having to press a button.

MAXIMUS is proof that when the customer wants a home that knows, we do whatever it takes to make that dream come true. Because VIKI knows!

📘 Discover the VIKI BrainBOX models in our complete catalog: Download PDF.
👉 Learn more about our custom solutions:
Site: www.vikiknows.com
Phone: 0364 430 121
E-mail: [email protected]

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From an apartment… to a house with a brain

Estimated reading time: 2 minutes

Or, in other words, how do you transform a 73 sq m apartment in an old block of flats into a smart home that makes your life simpler, safer and more comfortable.

It all started with a clear desire: “We want a smarter home.” Not necessarily a bigger or newer space, but a home that responds to the needs of those who live in it. A home that turns on the light when needed, heats the space only when someone is present and knows, without being asked, what a normal day in the family looks like.

📍 The starting space: a classic block of flats, 73 sq m. Wired like in the 2000s, with visible sockets and switches, old electrical installation and no trace of “smart” in the walls.

🔧 A serious renovation followed, a retrofit – that is, a large-scale intervention in which all the electrical installations were changed, the walls were deeply grooved, and the finishes were completely redone. The only thing that was kept was the floor – otherwise, everything was adapted for a smart future.

What does “smart” mean in this case?
📱 First of all, switches were completely abandoned. Yes, you read that right. There is no more “turn on the light in the living room” – because now the lights turn on and off by themselves, depending on how people move around the house.
🔥 The heating – with radiators – is also automated. VIKI knows when someone is home, in which room, and maintains the ideal temperature there. And when you are away, consumption automatically decreases.
🔐 The security is also smart:
Sensors that detect unusual movements at doors and windows – and send instant notifications.
Smoke and carbon dioxide sensors, for emergencies.
Flood sensors, which can save you from costly repairs (in your home or at your neighbors’).
All can be interfaced with solutions that communicate with security dispatchers, for even more peace of mind.

🧠 This entire network is orchestrated by VIKI BrainBOX – the brain of the house, which analyzes the behaviors of the residents and learns what “normal” means to them. VIKI is not just an automation system, but a butler assistant for your home, which makes decisions for you, without you telling it what to do every time. Watch the VIDEO of the home transformation.

How much does such a transformation cost?
There are two standard variants:
BASIC – suitable for apartments and small spaces, with essential functionalities – 3,790 EUR (VAT included).
ADVANCED – ideal for more complex homes or projects, with extended functionalities and more controllable areas – 4,980 EUR (VAT included).
💡 In addition, you can customize the system with extra functionalities, depending on your lifestyle, preferences and needs. Because VIKI Knows!
📘 Find all the details in our complete catalog HERE.

Why does all this matter?
Because your time is precious. Because safety shouldn’t depend on a locked door or a watchful neighbor. Because it’s absurd to give simple, daily commands to a house that can learn to do them on its own. VIKI transforms homes into places that understand you. Whether you live in an old block of flats or a new villa, VIKI gives you that upgrade you need: real comfort, without buttons.

Want to know what your home would look like if it were… smart? Start with a SIMULATION.

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How to enjoy the holidays without worrying about home security: VIKI is here for you!

Timp estimativ de citire: 1 minut

The holidays are the perfect time to escape from the daily routine and spend time with your loved ones. However, for many of us, worrying about home security remains a major stress. With VIKI, you can leave with peace of mind, knowing that your home is safe.
Smart functions that protect your home:
– Simulation of presence: VIKI can turn lights on and off or play music at irregular intervals, giving the impression that you are home.
– Automatic lowering / raising of the blinds: depending on the position of the sun in the sky, VIKI controls the blinds on the windows so that the flowers receive enough light during the day and at night create an additional barrier for thieves.
– Real-time monitoring: Through integrated surveillance cameras and instant notifications, you receive alerts in case of suspicious movements.
– Remote control: You have full access to all the functions of the house through the app – from locking the doors to checking the motion sensors.
– Integration with security sensors: If it detects an unauthorized entry or other unexpected events, VIKI sends alerts immediately and can even trigger an alarm system connected to a security dispatcher.

Bonus tip for the holidays
Track personalized notifications and periodically check the status of your home from your phone or tablet. In addition, it uses VIKI to control the switching on of Christmas lights so that they are only switched on when needed, also reducing energy consumption.

This winter and all to come, protect your home and enjoy peace of mind. VIKI knows how to take care of everything!

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VIKI Knows attended ExpoTech 2017

viki expoTech 2017

The VIKI Knows team presented the smart house that learns your habits at the ExpoTech technology exhibition, organized by TechFest at Iulius Mall Cluj, on the weekend of November 3-5, 2017.

The event is dedicated to both connoisseurs and technology enthusiasts, as well as the general public who are interested in smart systems or devices. TechFest hosted start-ups in the field, which presented new technologies and trends of the future.
Continue reading “VIKI Knows attended ExpoTech 2017” »

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VIKI to attend ExpoTech, within TechFest Cluj

viki expotech cluj

VIKI will attend ExpoTech technology exhibition within TechFest Cluj, which will take place at Iulius Mall, between November 3 and 5.

Now at the second edition, TechFest is an umbrella event that aims to bring together all those passionate about technology and innovation, whether we are talking about connectivity applications, smart business solutions, virtual reality, robots or artificial intelligence.
Continue reading “VIKI to attend ExpoTech, within TechFest Cluj” »

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10 memorable moments with VIKI

viki livingroom moduri large

The basic functionality of a home automation system is certainly the possibility to group user needs into what VIKI calls Scenarios and ways of managing the home environment.
Activated by artificial intelligence, voice, from smartphone or tablet, VIKI scenarios and modes help to increase your comfort when you want to forget about daily worries and optimize energy consumption in your home. Let’s give you a few examples:
Continue reading “10 memorable moments with VIKI” »

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Did you forget a window open? VIKI takes care of the house on any weather

viki alerta meteo

The rainy and cool season is here, the season with capricious and often surprising weather – as we have seen in recent days. We no longer sleep with the windows open at night, but in the morning we have to open the windows, let the fresh autumn air enter the house. It’s just that in the morning we are too hurried and sometimes inattentive, forgetting to leave the house in order, so that when we return we have the comfort and peace that we have been waiting for all day.

VIKI helps us, again. The scenario is well known to everyone: in a hurry, we leave the windows open in the morning, forgetting to check the weather forecast. A few minutes of rain is enough, if it is torrential and the wind is still blowing, on the way back we may find a small flood or at least wet objects around the window.

Continue reading “Did you forget a window open? VIKI takes care of the house on any weather” »

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You can now control the smart home VIKI with your voice

viki si alexa

VIKI and Alexa became closer friends this summer. The last time we told you about the “relationship” between the artificial intelligence VIKI and the Amazon Echo Dot (code name: Alexa) was in May, when compatibility tests were in progress.

Since then, the VIKI team has been able to integrate more and more voice commands into the application, commands that VIKI is currently able to execute promptly: setting a room temperature, displaying the weather forecast, opening the door, turning on / off the TV, playing / stopping the music player and more.

Thus, now we can talk directly to our virtual “butler”, and soon we will not need (too much) phone / tablet anymore, it will be enough to use our voice in order to control the intelligent house VIKI.

The proof can be seen in the latest video shot by the VIKI team during the tests.

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Should we take our umbrella with us today or not? VIKI shows us the weather forecast, by days and hours

viki vremea selectare oras

It’s the holidays season and it is important to know from the start as much information as possible about the place chosen as a holiday destination, in order to be better prepared.
Or, simply, what awaits us on an ordinary day at the office when we can’t decide what to wear or whether to take the umbrella with us.

Regardless of the situation, one piece of information that most people look for is the weather – today or next week, depending on our plans. The weather can ruin them for us if we are not prepared.

Continue reading “Should we take our umbrella with us today or not? VIKI shows us the weather forecast, by days and hours” »

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