News

AMX Adds JAVA Programming Capability (29/11/2004)

AMX, world leaders in the design and manufacture of advanced residential and commercial automated control systems, has added a Java programming capability to its powerful NetLinx control systems. Named 'Duet', the extension to the NetLinx platform opens up the programming of AMX control systems to programmers currently working in standards-based Java, thereby instantly increasing the available pool of programmers available to system designers and installers.

By providing the option to program using NetLinx, Java, or both, Duet expands the development opportunities for existing NetLinx programmers, while providing accessibility to Java programmers.

Duet is a dual-interpreter firmware platform, combining the proven reliability and power of NetLinx with the extensive capabilities of the Java 2 MicroEdition (J2ME) platform. Duet uses a standard application program interface (API) for writing device control programs, significantly simplifying and expanding system capabilities for vertical market applications, such as AMX's Resource Management Suite.

This suite of applications is designed to allow customers in specific vertical markets to manage and control their resources and services. For those dealers using Resource Management applications, Java's standard protocols make it easier to add incremental features and services. Programming time is also reduced because Duet standardises features such as device and function definitions, default touch panel button assignments, and control and feedback methods.

AMX is also streamlining module development by offering the Café Duet integrated development environment. Duet module development is fast and efficient within Café Duet using the integrated software development kit. Café Duet includes a built-in module wizard with 28 device-specific application program interfaces (APIs) to streamline module creation.

Duet will enable programmers to simply connect devices and instantly be able to control them. AMX's NetLinx Master can find and install the Duet device module either from the device itself, a library on the master, from AMX's website, or from the manufacturer's website. For companies who are members of AMX's Inconcert manufacturer partner program, Duet allows them to write their own Duet modules, or use modules developed by AMX, enabling the NetLinx Master to automatically recognize and install the module. The Duet device API allows for device swapping so that programming changes are not required when devices are removed or replaced.

www.amxuk.co.uk