A method of adding a device to an existing or new electrical or electronic
automation or
multimedia network. The invention facilitates adding a device to the network that can communicate using various protocols such as
LonWorks, CEBus, X-10, etc. over media such as
AC power line, IR, RF,
twisted pair,
optical fiber, etc. The method is a mechanism for adding a device to a
system that can be used by an ordinary user of network capable
electrical devices. The method comprises the steps an installer would perform including the
handshaking that needs to occur between devices to accomplish the
binding process. A Functional Profile for
LonWorks networks is given as an example. This includes a Home Device profile that employs an automated explicit type messaging for all devices intended for use in a
home environment. The invention includes adding to the device an install button and a visual indicator for status such as an LED. Alternatively, existing buttons and LEDs on the device may be used for installed and binding purposes. Other methods of binding can be employed by the use of wired or
wireless handheld tools, remote controls, etc. Other interfaces and
user feedback can be used such as touch screen, personal computers, cellular phones, PDAs, etc which can offer simple ‘virtual’ binding by the press of an icon versus the physical button on the device. The binding can be performed locally or remotely such as via LAN, WAN, Internet, etc.