Definition: LonWorks

A control network from Echelon Corporation, San Jose, CA that is used in myriad applications, including factory automation, process control, building networks and vehicle networks. LonWorks provides services at all layers of the OSI model with its LonTalk protocol and Neuron chip. The Neuron is made up of three 8-bit processors and an operating system that supports LonTalk; however, LonTalk has become an ANSI standard that can run on any processor.

LonWorks allows up to 32,000 devices in a peer-to-peer configuration and also provides a complete set of network management functions. The LonWorks data link is a proprietary form of CSMA/CD over twisted pair, coax and fiber. Adapters allow connection to the Internet via Ethernet or dial-up modems.