Tyrrell Products has announced the release of its latest cutting-edge solution, the IONA-I Niagara 4 Controller. Powered by an advanced Intel Elkhart Lake Dual Core Processor and integrated with a LoRa Gateway & Network Server, this state-of-the-art controller sets a new benchmark in the world of IoT deployments, OEM plant control, smart buildings, and edge-to-cloud analytics. Designed to facilitate seamless integration across a variety of building and industrial systems, the IONA-I is packed with features that promise to transform how we approach smart building technology and system management.

The key highlight of the IONA-I is its Integrated LoRa Gateway. LoRa, which stands for Long Range, is a widely recognised wireless technology designed for low-power communication over long distances. It’s particularly useful in environments like smart buildings, industrial plants, and IoT ecosystems where a large number of sensors, devices, and machines need to be connected, monitored, and controlled. The IONA-I Niagara 4 Controller leverages this capability to offer long-range wireless communication with minimal energy consumption. This makes it an ideal choice for applications requiring wide area network connectivity without the limitations or costs associated with high-power, short-range solutions.

This LoRaWAN compatibility allows the IONA-I to connect a wide range of IoT devices across expansive areas, such as smart buildings, manufacturing facilities, and industrial zones. From energy meters and environmental sensors to HVAC systems and security devices, this controller can handle it all, integrating these devices into a unified, centrally managed system. The ability to facilitate efficient data transmission over long distances while maintaining centralised control through the Niagara 4 platform ensures that building managers and operators have full visibility and control over their systems.

The Power of Intel Elkhart Lake Processor

At the heart of the IONA-I Niagara 4 Controller is the Intel Elkhart Lake Dual Core Processor, which delivers robust performance capabilities. This advanced processor enables faster data processing, allowing the IONA-I to tackle complex tasks such as real-time data analysis, system diagnostics, and edge-to-cloud communications with ease. Whether it’s collecting and processing data from connected devices, managing cloud-based analytics, or automating building control systems, the Intel-powered controller ensures that operations are smooth, efficient, and responsive.

Moreover, the IONA-I’s enhanced communication capabilities ensure seamless integration with both wired and wireless systems, making it adaptable to a wide range of environments. Its dual-core processor also contributes to its impressive start-up speed, with the controller capable of running its station in just 30 seconds, a feature that stands out for professionals who require rapid deployment and minimal downtime.

Advanced Features for Modern Smart Building and IoT Environments

The IONA-I Niagara 4 Controller is designed to offer a suite of features that are essential for modern smart building infrastructure. These include:

• Integrated I/O Capabilities: The controller is equipped with 6 Universal Inputs (UI), 6 Digital Inputs (DI), 4 Digital Outputs (DO), and 8 Analog Outputs (AO), allowing it to interface with a wide range of sensors and control devices. These versatile input/output options make it highly adaptable for monitoring and managing different building systems, from climate control to security systems.
• Multiple Connectivity Options: With 2x Ethernet ports, 2x RS485 ports, and 1x RS232 port, the IONA-I provides a range of wired communication options, making it suitable for both local and remote system integration. The flexibility in connectivity allows the controller to integrate seamlessly with legacy systems as well as modern, IP-based infrastructure.
• Up to 4x Faster Performance: The IONA-I is reported to be four times faster than previous Niagara-based controllers. This performance boost is crucial for handling demanding IoT environments, where systems require real-time data exchange and fast response times. Whether it’s processing large datasets from IoT devices or controlling multiple building systems simultaneously, the IONA-I is built to deliver superior performance with efficiency.
• Niagara N4.10 & N4.13 Support: By supporting both Niagara N4.10 and N4.13, the IONA-I ensures full compatibility with Niagara’s latest security and functionality updates. This guarantees users have access to the most recent advancements in cybersecurity, data encryption, and control capabilities, safeguarding both the building’s data and the occupants’ privacy.

LoRa Gateway & Network Server: The Future of Wireless Connectivity

The integration of the LoRa Gateway & Network Server is one of the IONA-I’s standout features. LoRa technology enables long-range communication with minimal power usage, making it perfect for smart buildings that have to connect hundreds of devices spread across large areas. The LoRaWAN protocol supports bi-directional communication, ensuring that data is transmitted efficiently between devices and central servers.

This integrated gateway eliminates the need for separate LoRa infrastructure, reducing costs and simplifying installation. Moreover, it supports centralised management and configuration of connected devices through the Niagara 4 platform, allowing for remote monitoring, device provisioning, and data aggregation. The built-in LoRa technology also makes the IONA-I controller scalable, as it can accommodate a growing network of IoT devices without sacrificing performance or energy efficiency.

Ideal Applications for the IONA-I Niagara 4 Controller

The versatility of the IONA-I Niagara 4 Controller makes it well-suited to a wide range of applications. From OEM plant control systems to IoT deployments and smart building management, this controller can handle the most complex requirements of today’s connected environments. It is particularly ideal for industries that rely on extensive sensor networks and need robust, reliable data transmission across long distances.

In addition to smart buildings, the IONA-I can be used in manufacturing, logistics, and infrastructure management, where the integration of diverse systems and data sources is critical. Its ability to handle both real-time processing and edge analytics makes it a perfect fit for industries seeking to optimise operations, reduce energy consumption, and improve overall system performance.

The launch of the IONA-I Niagara 4 Controller marks a significant leap forward in smart building and IoT technology. With its Intel-powered processing, integrated LoRa Gateway, and extensive input/output options, the controller offers unparalleled flexibility, performance, and scalability. It’s a solution designed for the future of smart infrastructure, capable of meeting the complex demands of modern IoT environments while ensuring seamless integration, efficient data management, and reliable performance.