Introduction
Commissioning is where a KNX RF project either becomes stable and predictable or turns into a long-term service headache. Unlike wired KNX TP, wireless systems demand a bit more planning, correct sequencing, and awareness of RF behaviour during commissioning.
This article is written as a practical, on-site guide for system integrators, explaining how to commission KNX RF devices in ETS correctly, including RF Secure considerations, gateway setup, testing, and common mistakes to avoid.
1. Understanding KNX RF Commissioning Philosophy
KNX RF commissioning follows the same logical principles as KNX TP:
- Devices are added to an ETS project
- Physical addresses are assigned
- Group addresses are linked
- Communication is tested
However, the physical layer behaves differently:
- Devices may be battery-powered
- Communication is event-driven
- RF range and placement matter
This means commissioning order and environment matter more than in wired KNX.
2. What You Need Before Starting
Before opening ETS, ensure the following are ready:
Hardware Preparation
- KNX RF devices installed in final locations
- RF gateway powered and connected to KNX TP or IP
- Batteries inserted (if applicable)
- No devices inside metal enclosures
Software & Access
- Latest ETS version installed
- Product databases imported
- KNX RF Secure credentials available (QR codes / keys)
Skipping this preparation is one of the most common causes of commissioning delays.
3. Role of the KNX RF Gateway
KNX RF devices do not communicate directly with KNX TP or IP. They require an RF gateway.
The RF gateway:
- Receives RF telegrams
- Converts them to standard KNX telegrams
- Forwards them to TP or IP
From ETS:
- RF devices appear as normal KNX devices
- Gateway acts as the bridge
Integrator tip:
Gateway placement affects every RF device. Always commission gateways first.
4. Creating the ETS Project (Best Practice)
When starting a new project:
- Create ETS project
- Define topology (TP line or IP backbone)
- Add RF gateway to correct line
- Enable KNX Secure if RF Secure is used
Even if RF devices are few, treat the project like a full KNX installation, not an add-on.
5. Adding KNX RF Devices to ETS
Importing Product Data
- Import the manufacturer database
- Verify RF Secure capability
- Check supported ETS version
Adding Devices
- Drag RF device into the project
- Assign to the RF medium via the gateway
- Do not assign group addresses yet
At this stage, focus only on structure, not logic.
6. Physical Address Assignment (RF Specifics)
Unlike KNX TP, RF devices:
- May sleep to save power
- May only wake on button press
Best Practice
- Put device into teach-in mode
- Assign physical address immediately
- Confirm address in ETS
If the device sleeps during addressing, ETS may time out—this is normal, not a fault.
7. Commissioning KNX RF Secure Devices
If RF Secure is enabled, commissioning includes extra steps.
Secure Commissioning Workflow
- Enable Secure in ETS project
- Import device security information
- Assign secure keys
- Download configuration securely
- Verify secure communication
Security errors are almost always due to:
- Wrong key
- Missing QR code
- Secure not enabled at project start
Once commissioned, secure devices will not accept non-secure telegrams.
8. Group Address Linking (No Difference from TP)
From a logic perspective:
- Group addresses behave exactly the same
- Datapoint types are identical
- Scenes and logic are unchanged
Important:
Do not design RF logic differently. If logic works on TP, it works on RF.
9. Testing RF Communication in ETS
What to Test
- Switching response
- Status feedback
- Scene activation
- Range consistency
How to Test Properly
- Test from final mounting position
- Walk test RF switches
- Observe telegram monitor
Avoid testing RF devices while holding them in hand—this gives false confidence.
10. RF Range Validation on Site
Before handover:
- Test worst-case positions
- Test through closed doors
- Test with people present
If communication is unreliable:
- Adjust gateway position
- Add additional gateway
- Reposition RF devices
Do not increase complexity in ETS to fix physical RF problems.
11. Battery & Power Considerations During Commissioning
For battery-powered devices:
- Avoid repeated downloads
- Complete logic linking before final test
- Minimise unnecessary wake-ups
Commissioning habits directly affect battery lifetime.
12. Common KNX RF Commissioning Mistakes
Seen frequently on real sites:
- Commissioning before final device placement
- Installing gateways inside metal panels
- Forgetting to enable RF Secure early
- Mixing secure and non-secure RF unintentionally
- Assuming RF issues are “ETS problems”
Most RF issues are physical or procedural, not software-related.
13. Commissioning Checklist (Integrator Use)
Before project handover:
- All RF devices respond reliably
- Secure communication verified
- Batteries documented
- Gateway locations recorded
- ETS project backed up securely
A disciplined handover prevents future service calls.
14. KNX RF Commissioning in Hybrid Systems
In mixed TP + RF + IP projects:
- Commission TP first
- Then IP backbone
- RF last
This layered approach isolates problems and speeds up troubleshooting.
Conclusion
KNX RF commissioning in ETS is not difficult, but it requires a different mindset compared to wired KNX. When gateways are placed correctly, Secure is handled properly, and devices are commissioned in the right order, KNX RF systems are just as stable as TP installations.
For system integrators, mastering RF commissioning is essential for delivering clean retrofits and future-proof hybrid KNX projects.
