ABB (link), including its German subsidiary Busch-Jaeger (link), has updated the System Access Point for the free@home building automation system. With the introduction of the System Access Point 3.0, the company replaces the previous Access Point 2.0 and, at the same time, adds a second device variant designed exclusively for wireless installations.
Variants for Different Use Cases
Two models will be available going forward. The System Access Point 3.0 Wireless supports only wireless communication within the free@home system. It is particularly suited for renovation projects or existing buildings where running new cables is not desired and is positioned at a lower price point. From a technical perspective, the model is comparable to the access point integrated into the ABB OneTouch display.
The standard System Access Point 3.0 additionally features a bus connection (24 V, twisted pair) for wired free@home installations. According to the manufacturer, both versions can manage up to 150 devices. While the Wireless Access Point connects devices exclusively via radio, the standard model supports a combination of wired and wireless components.
Updated Hardware and Concealed USB Port
Among the hardware changes is the switch to USB-C for power supply. In addition, the second USB-A port is now concealed inside the housing. This allows expansions such as the free@home Alarmstick to be installed discreetly. The Alarmstick adds wireless connectivity in the 868-MHz band and enables integration of ABB smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and heat detectors into the free@home system. The concealed installation is also intended to help protect this security-relevant component from being unintentionally unplugged, for example in rental properties.
Matter Integration and Thread Support
The System Access Point 3.0 is equipped with a more powerful processor and increased memory. This makes it better suited for software add-ons, including the Matter Controller add-on and the Matter Bridge add-on from ABB. Through these extensions, the System Access Point becomes compatible with the new, cross-manufacturer smart home standard. Further details are covered in the article on Matter for electricians.
As with the previous generation, the Thread USB stick is also supported. In this configuration, the access point acts as a Thread Border Router and can directly integrate Matter-enabled Thread devices. This is primarily intended for products from Eve Systems, which is also part of ABB. However, other Matter-certified products are also suitable as long as they belong to the product categories supported by free@home (lighting, power, thermostats, shading, sensors).
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