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DTXr documentation

Installation

  • System Requirements
    DTXr can run on any machine that can run Java 17 and has sufficient with RAM and disk capacity.
Requirement System RAM System DISK Example
Minimal 512Mbyte 512Mbyte Raspberry 1, Raspberry Zero
Better 512Mbyte 512Mbyte Rasberry Zero 2
Avarage 1GByte 1Gbyte Raspberry 2-4
Top 2GByte 8Gbyte Raspberry 4, Raspberry CM4, Server, PC
  • Network Requirements
    DTXr can run stand alone without any active network connection. In that case the management pages is accessible via localhost interface. But for DTXr to be a fully functional BACnet/IP device it must be connected to an IP network that offers IP address via DHCP and where broadcast traffic is allowed.
  • Download DTXr software packages
    Currently only customers to DAVITOR can download DTXr. Contact for purchase information.
  • Install on Linux
    • There is special install scripts, please follow these steps:
      1. Download latest DTXr base image and copy to a SD-card that has 16Gbyte capacity or more

Or install a new image and install java

sudo apt install default-jdk

  1. Insert the SD card, attach keyboard and screen via cable and start the device
  2. When you get prompt login as admin/davitor
  3. Download the installation script from davitor repository
    (note dtx.sh has an update since Jan 17th, 2024 see new parameter 'installfolder' below)
    (note dtx.sh has an update since Nov 6th, 2025 see new parameter 'type' below)
    wget --user=**** --password=**** https://artifacts.davitor.com/repository/dtx-raw/scripts/dtx.sh

    There is also a utillity script that can set the host name and MAC adress. Note, optional and only applicable on LION product appliances.
    wget --user=**** --password=****  https://artifacts.davitor.com/repository/dtx-raw/scripts/system.sh

    Make the scripts exec
    sudo chmod 770 *.sh
  4. Run installation as below where you first alter:
    • Required type (-t type) where type can be "scriptengine" for small platforms like RpiZ with 32-bit OS or "polyglot" for any 64-bits OS like servers or PC.
    • Required version (-v x.y.z)
    • The the install folder (-f myfolder) Note: Still relative to /usr/local so (-f myfolder) results in /usr/local/myfolder/dtx...
    • Partner user name (-u **)
    • Partner password (-p **)
    • Application password for the HTTP interface login on port 9090 (-app-password xxxxxxx)
    • BACnet Decvice Id (bac-device-id=nnnnn)
    • BACnet password which you will use to control the BACnet device DCC (bacnet-password=xxxxxx)
    • BACnet Device Name (bac-device-name=yyyy)
    • DAVITOR Reference Key (drk=xxxx) is used to mange and maintain this device from the DAVITOR PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) service. (drk=xxxx) The sequence of drk:s is in PLM instance database.
    • Hardware Platform Type (platform=xx) is used to control and switch on/off special features that is hardware dependent.
      For LION products use:
      sudo ./dtx.sh -t scriptengine|polyglot -v 3.2.2 -f myfolder -u **** -p **** -s "bac-device-id=nnnnn bac-device-name=yyyy app-password=xxxxxx bac-password=xxxxxx lion-enabled=true drk=xxxx platform=XX"

      For other installations like PC, Servers etc. use:
      sudo ./dtx.sh -t scriptengine|polyglot -v 3.1.23 -f myfolder -u **** -p **** -s "bac-device-id=nnnnn bac-device-name=yyyy app-password=xxxxxx bac-password=xxxxxx drk=xxxx platform=XX"
      1. Utillity script to set MAC and host name
        sudo ./system.sh -mac 70:B3:D5:16:E8:99 -hn DTX-L1-8R8DI
  • Upgrade on linux
    If you already have DTX installed and should upgrade to a new version (Don't forget to set correct installfolder with -f)
    sudo ./dtx.sh -t scriptengine|polyglot -v 3.1.23 -f myfolder -u **** -p ****
  • Manage the DTX service (Note, since 17th Jan, 2024 of dtx.sh the names of the services are appended with the instsall folder in order to install multiple instances of DTX in same machine.)
    Stop
    sudo systemctl stop dtx_{myfolder}

    Start
    sudo systemctl start dtx_{myfolder}

    Check status
    systemctl status dtx_{myfolder}

    Disable service, wont start at reboot
    sudo systemctl disable dtx_{myfolder}

    Enable service, will start automatically at reboot
    sudo systemctl enable dtx_{myfolder}
  • For other Linux distributions follow this steps
    1. TBD...
  • Install on Windows
    • Follow these steps:
      1. TBD...

LION Fieldbus

  • See LION Wiki for howto in installataion, channel assigmnets and testing.

User's Guide

DTXr Web Interface – End User Documentation

1. Overview

The DTXr web interface allows users to:
  • View BACnet objects and their properties
  • Modify writable properties (e.g., Present Value)
  • Edit weekly schedules
  • Switch between local and remote devices
  • Monitor alarms, events, and notifications
  • Use real-time updates through WebSocket (local device only)

Important:
When selecting a remote BACnet device, the object list and notifications do not update automatically.
You must press Objects → Refresh to reload the data.

For the local device that hosts the web page, all updates (property changes, events, alarms) are received in real time.

2. Navigation Bar

2.1 Objects Menu
  • Refresh reloads all object data and events.

Note: Refresh is required when a remote device is selected.

2.2 Devices Menu
  • Displays local device and all discovered BACnet devices.
  • Devices are grouped by network.
  • Selecting a device loads its object list.

2.3 Priority Menu
Controls the BACnet write priority used when writing Present Value.

Examples:
  • Priority 1 – Manual Life Safety
  • Priority 8 – Default
  • Priority 16 – Lowest

2.4 Notifications Menu
Shows:
  • Alarms
  • Events
  • Return-to-normal

The menu uses badge counters:
  • Yellow = events
  • Red = alarms
  • Green = normal transitions

3. Objects View

The main view lists all BACnet objects.

Features:
  • Collapsible categories (accordions)
  • Lazy loading of properties when expanded
  • Editable Present Value fields where supported
  • Real-time updates on the local device
  • Manual refresh required for remote devices

3.1 Expanding an Object
Expanding an object loads:
  • Properties
  • Values
  • Writable fields
  • Schedule editor button (if applicable)

3.2 Writing Property Values
Steps:
  1. Edit a value in the input field.
  2. Press the Write/Save button.
  3. DTXr sends a BACnet WriteProperty with the selected priority.
  4. A popup shows success or error.

4. Device Discovery

4.1 Discovering Devices
Opening the Devices dropdown sends a Who-Is request and populates the list.

4.2 Selecting a Device
When switching devices:
  • Properties reload
  • Notification list reloads
  • The selected device name appears in the navbar

4.3 Refreshing Content
Mandatory when using remote devices.

Use:
Objects → Refresh

This reloads:
  • Object list
  • Property values
  • Notifications

5. Notifications and Events

Notifications include:
  • Alarm
  • Event
  • Normal
Real-time updates:
  • Enabled for local device
  • Disabled for remote devices — manual refresh required

5.1 Acknowledgment
If a notification supports acknowledgment:
  • Press Acknowledge
  • DTXr sends BACnet AcknowledgeAlarm
  • Notification updates when completed

6. Weekly Schedule Editor

6.1 Opening the Editor
Click the schedule property to open the weekly calendar modal.

6.2 Creating Events
Select a time in the calendar to create a new event.

6.3 Editing Events
Click an event to modify:
  • Binary schedule → Active / Inactive
  • Analog schedule → numeric value

6.4 Saving the Schedule
Click Save changes to store the weekly schedule.

The data is:
  • Compiled into BACnet dailySchedule structures
  • Sorted chronologically
  • Sent to the device as JSON

7. Popups and Feedback

Popups indicate:
  • Success
  • Errors
  • Info
  • Warnings

8. Troubleshooting

8.1 Objects Not Updating
  • Remote device selected → press Refresh
  • Network or device may be unreachable

8.2 Write Errors
Possible reasons:
  • Incorrect priority
  • Object out of service
  • Invalid value

8.3 Schedule Issues
  • No events created
  • Missing object ID
  • Remote device requires manual refresh

Setup

DTXr is configured through the Menu → Setup page.
All configuration settings are grouped into logical sections. Each section below provides a functional overview of what the user can configure.
Values are stored in settings.json and applied system-wide after pressing Save.

Important:
When a remote device is selected from the HUB interface, a manual page refresh is required to update configuration data.
Local device information updates in real time.
h4. System

Contains all fundamental system-level access and identity configuration.

  • Administrator Account
    - Configure the password of the fixed “admin” user.
  • Operator Account
    - Optional user with limited access for HMIs or machine operation.
    - Username, password and start page can be assigned.
  • Developer Account
    - Optional higher-level user with configurable module permissions
    (code, objects, API, blocks, diagram, setup).
  • Logging
    - Set the system-wide log level (Debug, Info, Warning, Error).
  • Hardware Platform
    - Select hardware profile (PC/server, Mira/Mesh, LION, etc.).
    - This controls the enable/disable state of platform-specific modules.

BACnet

Defines all BACnet/IP protocol parameters for the device.

  • Device Identity
    - Device ID, Device Name.
  • Security
    - BACnet password (used for Device Communication Control).
  • Protocol Settings
    - Segmentation, Max APDU, Vendor ID and other low-level options.
  • Network Mode
    - Basic IP communication behaviour (broadcast, BBMD usage when applicable).

This section is essential when integrating DTXr into a BACnet building automation network.

Wireless Mesh

Provides access to the mesh radio configuration on supported hardware.

  • Enable/Disable Mesh
  • Mesh Credentials
    - Security keys, network key and authentication key.
  • Node Role
    - Coordinator / Router / End Device.
  • Provisioning QR Code
    - Device can generate a QR code containing mesh network credentials.

Note: Mesh options are disabled on platform types that do not support radio.

Bluetooth

Configuration for onboard Bluetooth LE services (if supported by the platform).

  • Bluetooth Console
    - Enables BLE-based console output.
  • Beacon Mode
    - Enables BLE advertisement and optional custom beacon name.
  • Address Visibility and Power Settings
    - Controls how the device broadcasts itself to the environment.

These options are automatically enabled or disabled depending on the selected platform type.

LION Interface

Shown only on LION-enabled platforms.

  • Enable/Disable LION module support.
  • Hardware Extensions
    - Configures behaviour of LION-specific IO hardware.
  • Channel Behavior
    - Digital/analog features depending on LION product family.

Davitor Advantage

Configuration for optional DAVITOR cloud lifecycle management.

  • DRK (Davitor Reference Key)
    - Used for remote maintenance and PLM link.
  • PLM Connectivity
    - Service URL and communication settings when using cloud management.

External Database Access

Lets the DTXr device communicate with an external SQL/NoSQL database.

  • Connection
    - Host, port and protocol information.
  • Credentials
    - Username/password for authenticated connections.
  • Sync/Logging Options
    - Defines how data is written externally (trend logs, events, custom data).

File Integration

Tools for importing/exporting system content.

  • Backup / Restore
    - Download the current configuration or upload a saved configuration.
  • Project File Upload
    - Add or replace project assets (HMIs, scripts, diagrams).
  • Logs
    - Download generated logs for troubleshooting.

HTTP Server

Controls how the embedded DTXr HTTP service behaves.

  • Port Configuration
    - Default HTTP port is 9090.
  • HTTPS / TLS
    - Optional encrypted access.
  • Session Timeout
    - Auto-logout delay for inactive users.
  • Allowed Hosts
    - Restrict network clients that can access the interface.

Email

Allows the device to send or receive email for automation events.

  • SMTP Server
    - Address, port, TLS/STARTTLS.
  • Authentication
    - Optional username/password.
  • Attachments Folder
    - Path where incoming email attachments are stored.

Location Services

The device can determine its location automatically.

  • Automatic Geolocation
    - Queries an external geolocation service to populate latitude/longitude.
  • Manual Input
    - User can override location if browser access is restricted.

IoT HUB (BETA)

Early-stage experimental cloud integration.

  • Backend URL
    - IoT gateway endpoint.
  • Device Token
    - Authentication token for cloud usage.
  • Upload Options
    - Define what data the device forwards (events, logs, telemetry).

Save & Refresh

  • Save
    - Commits all modified settings to settings.json.
  • Refresh
    - Reloads settings from device memory.
    - Required after switching to a remote device.

Blocks Editor (Blockly)

The Blocks page provides a visual programming environment based on Google Blockly.
Users can build automation logic using drag-and-drop blocks instead of traditional code.
All logic created here is converted into JavaScript and executed by the DTXr runtime.

The Blocks Editor is divided into four main areas:
  • The toolbox (left side) containing categorized blocks
  • The Blockly workspace (center)
  • The log and activity panels (bottom)
  • Editor actions available in the top navigation bar

Navigation Bar Features

  • Blocks → Refresh
    - Re-parses the block code displayed in the workspace.
  • Blocks → Clear logs
    - Clears the log console in the footer area.
  • Test
    - Executes the currently visible block code once, without saving.
  • Save
    - Saves the current block workspace into the device configuration.
  • Activate
    - Saves and also activates the block program so it runs continuously.
  • Notifications
    - Shows system events, alarms, and normal transitions in real time.

Blockly Workspace

The main canvas where blocks are placed and connected.

  • Drag blocks from the toolbox onto the workspace.
  • Connect blocks to form logic chains.
  • Right-click a block to duplicate, delete, or collapse it.
  • Zoom and pan with the mouse wheel or gestures.

All changes in the workspace are local until Save or Activate is pressed.

Toolbox Categories

The toolbox is organized into logical categories:

  • JSON
    - Blocks for constructing and parsing JSON objects.
  • Logic
    - If/else, comparison, boolean operations.
  • Loops
    - Repeat operations.
  • Math
    - Arithmetic and numeric values.
  • Text
    - String operations and concatenation.
  • Variables
    - Create and manage global/local variables.

Events (DTX-specific)
- Triggers for analog or binary input changes
- Astro events
- Timers
- Incoming text messages
- Diagram object push events

Set value / Read value (DTX BACnet extensions)
- Write analog, binary, lighting outputs
- Read analog or binary values
- Compare input states

Timed tasks
- Cron-like scheduling
- Start, cancel, pause, resume timers

HMI
- Update graphical objects or maps in diagrams/HMI pages

Code
- Insert raw JavaScript statements
- Create custom return statements
- Handle function call events

Misc
- Print to log
- Date/time

Notifications
- Send email from block logic

These categories combine to cover automation, BACnet control, HMI interaction and notifications.

Running and Activating Code

Test
Executes the block logic one time, useful for debugging.

Save
Stores the block script but does not run it automatically.

Activate
Saves and deploys the block logic to the DTXr runtime engine.
Activated logic will:
  • Run automatically on device startup
  • Respond to events immediately
  • Allow scheduled logic to trigger without manual execution

Sidebars and Console

Left Sidebar
May contain the workspace tree or additional contextual tools.

Right Sidebar
Displays block metadata, help text or generated JavaScript depending on configuration.

Footer Console
Two areas are available:
  • Log — printed output from print blocks or runtime
  • Activity — messages about system behavior, activation, parsing, etc.

Both areas support resizing using draggable split panes.

Working With Devices in Blocks Mode

The device selector is present but indicates:

“Not applicable in Blocks mode”

This is because Blockly logic always runs locally on the device that hosts DTXr.
Remote devices cannot be programmed using the Blocks Editor.

Saving Your Work

The block workspace is saved in the device’s internal configuration.
A backup is included when exporting system configuration via the File Integration tools.

Important:
If block logic interacts with remote devices (reading/writing values),
use Refresh in Objects view to ensure the remote values have been updated recently.

Error Handling

When errors occur:
  • The error message appears in the log console
  • Pop-up notifications show parsing or execution issues
  • Common issues include:
    - Missing block connections
    - Undefined variables
    - Writing to unavailable BACnet objects

Best Practices

  • Keep block structures grouped and well-organized
  • Name variables clearly
  • Use print statements during development
  • Test frequently before activation
  • Avoid long chains inside event triggers
  • Use timers for repeated actions, not loops

Code Editor (DTXr)

The Code Editor in DTXr provides a complete development environment for automation scripting, BACnet integration, file management, debugging, and interacting with both local and remote devices.
The page is divided into several functional areas, each designed to support efficient automation development and system diagnostics.

Overview of the Page Layout

DTXr Code Editor consists of four main UI regions:

  • Left Pane – File Browser
    Shows project files stored on the device, such as automation.js, HTML pages, CSS, JSON, XML, HMI/Diagram files, logs, and configuration files.
  • Center Pane – Code Editor (ACE Editor)
    A full-featured code editor with syntax highlighting, autocomplete, evaluation tools, and integration with the BACnet browser.
  • Right Pane – BACnet Browser
    Displays the connected BACnet networks, devices, objects, and properties with support for read, write, and object creation.
  • Bottom Area – Console & Activity Log
    Used for debugging JavaScript, viewing print output, receiving notifications, and tracking internal DTX events.

A top navigation menu provides commands such as Save, Activate, Evaluate, Reinitialize and Clear Log.

Left Pane: File Browser

The file browser shows all project and system-related files available in the device’s storage.

Functions include:

  • Navigating directories
  • Opening files in the center code pane
  • Creating new files (JS, HTML, JSON, XML, CSS, HMI/Diagram)
  • Uploading multiple files at once
  • Downloading files
  • Cloning or renaming files
  • Deleting files
  • Choosing "Open With" (Diagram Editor, HMI Editor, Markdown Viewer, Raw Mode)
  • Previewing HTML files in a new browser tab

Restrictions:

  • Some protected system directories cannot be renamed or removed
  • When connected to a remote device, execution of JavaScript is not supported (only storing/editing files)

DTXr warns before navigating away if unsaved edits exist.

Right Pane: BACnet Browser

The BACnet browser displays:

  • Networks
  • Devices
  • Object Types
  • Individual Objects
  • Properties (including writable flags and enumeration values)

Each node can be expanded independently and refreshed individually to minimize network traffic.

Reading & Writing Properties

From any BACnet property node, you may:

  • Read the value
  • Write to writable properties
  • Refresh only that property
  • Inspect metadata such as engineering units, status flags, and enumeration states

Device-Level Actions

Available actions:

  • Who-Is – Discover local devices
  • Who-Is Global – Discover devices across all accessible networks
  • Reinitialize Device – Warm start, cold start (requires password)
  • Restart Device – Full reboot (requires password)
  • Read All Properties – Retrieve a complete BACnet property set

Adding BACnet Objects (Virtual Objects)

DTXr allows creation of virtual BACnet objects, which exist entirely in software and not in physical hardware.

Supported types include:

  • Analog Value (AV)
  • Binary Value (BV)
  • Multi-State Value (MSV)
  • Trend Logs
  • Schedules & Calendars
  • Notification Classes
  • File objects
  • Many additional standard object types

Virtual objects behave exactly like real BACnet objects:

  • They support ReadProperty and WriteProperty
  • They support COV subscriptions
  • They can be logged, alarmed and trended
  • They appear to all BACnet clients on the network

These objects enable advanced automation without requiring hardware wiring.

Benefits of Virtual BACnet Objects

Virtual objects make DTX highly flexible:

  • Easily combine sensor inputs into new BACnet values
  • Represent logic states (HeatingDemand, OccupancyStatus, etc.)
  • Create synthetic points (averages, maximums, deltas, differences)
  • Produce outputs used by other BACnet controllers
  • Build complex automation logic without extra I/O modules
  • Use TrendLogs for computed metrics

Drag & Drop Integration (BACnet Browser → Code)

When dragging a device, object or property into the code pane, DTX automatically generates a usable JavaScript snippet.

Examples:

read("1234", "analogInput", 1, "presentValue")
write("1234", "binaryValue", 5, "presentValue", 1)
subscribeCOV("1234", "analogValue", 10, (value) => {
    print("COV update: " + value)
})

Top Navigation Commands

  • Save – Saves the current file
  • Activate – Activates JavaScript files on local device
  • Evaluate – Runs selected code
  • Evaluate and Print – Runs and prints output
  • Reinitialize – Reloads automation system
  • Clear Log – Clears console

Remote nodes allow saving but cannot execute code from this page.

Bottom Area: Console & Activity Log

The Console Log shows:

  • print() output
  • JavaScript evaluation results
  • Errors and system warnings
  • WebSocket logs

The Activity Log shows internal BACnet and automation notifications.

JavaScript Automation in DTX

DTX includes a full ECMAScript engine:

  • Any JavaScript can be used
  • Arrays, JSON, classes, functions, loops, math, state machines—all supported
  • DTX adds automation libraries on top of standard JavaScript

BACnet Communication Functions

read(deviceId, type, instance, property)

write(deviceId, type, instance, property, value)

subscribeCOV(deviceId, type, instance, callback)

readAllProperties(deviceId, type, instance)

whoIs()

iam()

Timers & Scheduling

runEvery(seconds, callback)

runAt("HH:MM", callback)

runSchedule(scheduleObj, callback)

Logging & Notifications

trend("energy", value)

getTrend("energy")

notify(level, message)

alarmOn(tag)

alarmOff(tag)

System Functions

restart()

reinit()

getSystemInfo()

getDeviceList()

Complete Automation Examples

Averaging Temperatures

runEvery(10, () => {
    let values = [
        read("1001","analogInput",1,"presentValue"),
        read("1001","analogInput",2,"presentValue"),
        read("1001","analogInput",3,"presentValue"),
        read("1001","analogInput",4,"presentValue")
    ]
    let avg = values.reduce((a,b)=>a+b) / values.length
    write("local", "analogValue", 10, "presentValue", avg)
})

COV-Controlled Cooling

subscribeCOV("3000","analogInput",7,(value)=>{
    write("local","binaryValue",5,"presentValue", value > 22 ? 1 : 0)
})

Humidity Alarm

runEvery(5, () => {
    let humidity = read("ruuvi01","analogInput",8,"presentValue")

    if (humidity > 80) {
        alarmOn("HumidityHigh")
        notify("critical", "Humidity too high: " + humidity)
    } else {
        alarmOff("HumidityHigh")
    }
})

Multi-State Virtual Logic

runEvery(1, () => {
    let t = read("local","analogValue",10,"presentValue")
    let state =
        t < 18 ? 1 :
        t < 22 ? 2 :
        t < 25 ? 3 : 4

    write("local","multiStateValue",20,"presentValue",state)
})

BACnet

BACnet (Building Automation and Control Network) is an international open communication standard for building automation systems.
It enables devices from different manufacturers to communicate, share data, and coordinate functions such as HVAC, lighting, alarms, access control and energy management.

BACnet is defined and maintained by the BACnet Committee (SSPC 135) under ASHRAE.

More information: https://bacnet.org

Standards and Certification

BACnet is based on globally recognized standards:

  • ASHRAE Standard 135
    The core BACnet protocol specification, maintained by ASHRAE.
  • ISO 16484-5
    International standard for building automation and control networks.
  • ANSI/ASHRAE Addenda
    Regular updates ensure modern features and cyber-security enhancements.

Because BACnet is standardized internationally, devices are tested and validated against consistent technical rules.
This ensures long-term compatibility and protects investments in automation systems.

How BACnet Communication Works

BACnet defines:
  • Objects — structured data models (AI, AO, BI, BO, Schedules, etc.)
  • Properties — attributes of each object (Present Value, Units, Status Flags…)
  • Services — methods for communicating (ReadProperty, WriteProperty, etc.)
Common communication mechanisms:
  • BACnet/IP over UDP (default port 47808)
  • Who-Is / I-Am device discovery
  • ReadProperty / WriteProperty for data exchange
  • COV (Change of Value) subscriptions for event-driven updates
  • Alarm and Event notifications
DTXr implements:
  • Full BACnet/IP functionality
  • Device discovery
  • Automatic reading and writing of properties
  • Real-time event handling
  • COV subscriptions when available

Key Advantages of BACnet

Open and vendor-neutral
BACnet is not controlled by a single private company. Any manufacturer can implement the standard.
This eliminates vendor lock-in and ensures long-term system freedom.

Large global ecosystem
Hundreds of companies worldwide produce BACnet-certified devices:
  • HVAC controllers
  • Sensors and actuators
  • Lighting systems
  • VAV and damper controllers
  • Energy monitoring systems
  • User interfaces and visualizations

This means integrators can mix-and-match equipment from different brands without special gateways.

Interoperability by design
Because BACnet defines standard object types and required properties, devices share:
  • Common naming conventions
  • Common alarm/event handling behavior
  • Standard scheduling objects
  • Standard data types

This makes exchanging live data straightforward and predictable.

Efficient Event-Driven Communication with COV
Rather than constantly polling for updates, BACnet supports Change of Value (COV) subscriptions:
  • A device notifies subscribers only when a value actually changes
  • No wasted network traffic
  • Faster updates for dynamic values
  • Lower CPU and bandwidth usage
  • Ideal for large systems or wireless deployments

COV is one of BACnet’s biggest advantages over legacy systems that rely on heavy cyclic polling.

Rich Metadata Built Into the Protocol
BACnet objects include a wide range of metadata:
  • Object Name
  • Description
  • Units
  • Engineering limits
  • Reliability state
  • Status flags
  • Priority array
  • Object type
Metadata allows tools like DTXr to:
  • Auto-discover device capabilities
  • Display real names and units
  • Visualize systems without custom drivers
  • Auto-generate controls and dashboards

This reduces engineering time and improves clarity for end users.

Davitor Advantage

Interoperability and Vendor Collaboration

BACnet has a long-standing interoperability testing ecosystem:

  • BACnet Testing Laboratories (BTL)
    Certifies devices against standardized profiles, ensuring correct communication.
  • BTL Listings
    Public database of certified devices that work together reliably.
  • Plugfests
    Manufacturers meet twice per year to test their devices against each other in real networks.
The result:
  • Multi-brand BACnet systems work reliably
  • Integration cost is lower
  • Long-term compatibility is ensured
  • Devices can be replaced without redesigning the entire system

BACnet is one of the strongest and most mature interoperability ecosystems in the automation industry.

Why BACnet Works Exceptionally Well With DTXr

DTXr is built around BACnet’s strengths:
  • Automatic discovery of BACnet devices
  • Real-time event and alarm handling
  • Full COV support
  • Multi-priority writing of Present Value
  • Automatic metadata integration (names, units, descriptions)
  • Native schedule editor compatible with BACnet Schedule objects
  • BACnet notifications shown directly in the interface
DTXr can be used as:
  • A BACnet central controller
  • A visualization/HMI layer
  • A programming environment (Code + Blocks)
  • A diagnostics tool for technicians
  • A multi-device integration and commissioning tool

DTXr leverages the power of BACnet without requiring advanced protocol knowledge from the user.

---
h2. DTX Overview (Development Environment)

DTX (by Davitor) is a powerful development and runtime environment designed for building automation, integration, and control — especially for BACnet-based systems.
The environment is directly integrated into the device, allowing engineers to create, test, and execute automation logic locally or remotely via a web browser.
DTX is suitable for controllers, gateways, cloud connectors, and industrial IO devices.

Core Concept: Development Inside the Device

DTX is described by Davitor as a “Development Environment for BACnet devices”.
Its philosophy centers around self-contained automation, where development tools live inside the device itself — eliminating lost code, mismatched versions, or external dependencies. This enhances system integrity and long-term maintainability.

A major benefit of this approach:
  • Your automation project is stored and executed natively inside the device.
  • You can access the development environment anywhere on the network.
  • No separate development workstation is required.
  • The same environment works on almost any hardware or operating system supporting Java 17 or higher.

Key Features of DTX

Modular and Future-Proof Design
DTX is built with modularity in mind:
  • The development environment runs on the device.
  • It is platform-independent and OS-agnostic (runs wherever Java 17+ works).
  • It acts as a controller, cloud service, or gateway, depending on need.
One Unified Environment
DTX includes everything needed for automation development:
  • Full code editor with JavaScript (ES6) support.
  • A built-in BACnet browser for object discovery and inspection.
  • Easy GUI and HMI creation tools.
  • Integrated script engine, REST API bindings, email notifications, and schedule management.

Use Any Developer, Any Skill Level
Since DTX uses JavaScript, a widely accessible language, the need for specialized proprietary system knowledge is minimized. Anyone with basic JavaScript skills can build automation logic.

Protocol Integration and Interoperability

DTX natively supports protocols used in modern automation:
  • BACnet/IP (full stack with browser and read/write tools)
  • MODBUS (both Master and Slave over TCP/RTU)
  • REST API (both server and client capabilities for external application integration)
  • Optional LION fieldbus support on specialized hardware
  • MQTT broker capability for IoT use cases
  • Serial port support (ASCII and HEX with configurable delimiter)

The modular approach allows data from any source (BACnet or otherwise) to be exposed directly through DTX’s REST interface — enabling integration with cloud, database or analytics platforms while preserving metadata and object structure.

Unified Automation Stack

DTX unifies:
  • Development (IDE + editor inside the device)
  • HMI design (visual diagram editor)
  • Script execution (JavaScript engine)
  • Protocol communication (BACnet, Modbus, HTTP, MQTT, etc.)
  • Notifications and email support
  • Database integration (built-in user database or external Postgres SQL)
This makes DTX not only a controller but also a full automation ecosystem where:
  • Automation logic is developed, tested, and deployed locally
  • Values and objects are available in real time
  • Projects are stored in the device and cannot get disconnected from the runtime

Integration with Davitor Advantage

When combined with Davitor Advantage, DTX becomes a remotely manageable node in a scalable automation network:
  • Develop locally on any device
  • Provision devices via Davitor cloud
  • Manage and monitor projects across multiple sites and protocols
  • Keep firmware, logic, and configuration synchronized across installations

See https://www.davitor.com for product details and documentation.

Radio Support & Supported Protocols

DTX provides flexible wireless communication depending on platform and hardware.
Because DTX can run on any system capable of Java 17 or later, wireless capabilities can range from WiFi-only devices to advanced multi-protocol gateways.

Below are the primary wireless technologies supported by DTX, in recommended reading order.

WiFi (BACnet over WiFi)

DTX includes a complete BACnet/IP stack and can run on any Java 17+ capable WiFi device.
When DTX is installed on hardware with WiFi (e.g., Raspberry Pi, industrial WiFi gateways, embedded controllers), it automatically supports:

  • Full BACnet/IP communication over WiFi
  • COV subscriptions (efficient change-based updates)
  • Who-Is / I-Am device discovery
  • Reading and writing BACnet properties
  • BACnet schedules, events, notifications, and alarms
  • Participation in BACnet networks without wired Ethernet

This makes DTX a fully wireless BACnet controller when running on WiFi-enabled hardware — ideal for commissioning, mobile diagnostics, or wireless installations.

Bluetooth Devices (non-mesh)

DTX supports Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) devices for direct sensor integration.
This includes well-known BLE beacon and sensor devices such as RUUVI smart sensors, which DTX can automatically detect and encapsulate as BACnet objects.

Examples of RUUVI sensor data mapped by DTX:

  • Temperature (°C)
  • Humidity (%)
  • Air Pressure (Pa/hPa)
  • Movement / Acceleration (X/Y/Z axis)
  • Battery level
  • Signal strength (RSSI)

DTX automatically:

  • Detects nearby BLE sensors
  • Parses their advertisement data (no pairing required)
  • Creates corresponding BACnet objects
  • Updates values in real time
  • Allows automation logic and HMI dashboards to use them like any other BACnet sensor

This enables fully wireless environmental measurement with zero wiring and minimal configuration.

RUUVI devices are ideal for:

  • HVAC monitoring
  • Building comfort tracking
  • Server room supervision
  • Warehousing & storage
  • Indoor air quality dashboards
  • Asset or movement detection

Because the sensors broadcast continuously, DTX receives updates passively, with extremely low energy usage on the sensor side.

Wireless Long-Range DALI-2 Device (Davitor)

DTX supports integration with Davitor’s Wireless Long-Range DALI-2 Device, enabling wireless extension of DALI-2 lighting networks.
Instead of cabling DALI buses across long distances, the system uses Davitor’s long-range radio modules to connect DALI-2 control gear wirelessly.

Key features:

  • Wireless connection between DTX and DALI-2 luminaires
  • Maintains full DALI-2 functionality (dimming, groups, scenes, status)
  • Extends DALI-2 coverage beyond normal cable distance limits
  • Simplifies installation & retrofit work
  • Reduces cable infrastructure costs
  • All DALI-2 channels and objects appear in DTX as BACnet objects

This allows DTX to become a wireless lighting controller, combining BACnet automation with DALI-2 lighting systems.

Suitable for:

  • Industrial halls
  • Large buildings
  • Office retrofits
  • Outdoor lighting
  • Warehouses
  • Locations where DALI cabling is impractical

DTX treats wireless DALI-2 exactly like wired BACnet points, enabling seamless integration with automation scripts, schedules, alarms, and GUI pages.

Radio Mesh (MIRA & BLE5 Mesh)

DTX integrates with radio-based mesh networks such as MIRA Mesh and BLE5 Mesh using Davitor’s multi-protocol radio interface.
Mesh networks provide long-range, self-healing wireless communication ideal for distributed sensors and actuators.

DTX can:

  • Discover mesh nodes automatically
  • Map mesh node values into BACnet objects
  • Control mesh actuators through BACnet writes
  • Use mesh-based sensors for automation logic
  • Support large installations with many devices

Common mesh technologies used with DTX:

  • MIRA Mesh — IPv6-based, ultra-low power, long-range self-healing mesh
  • BLE5 Mesh — Bluetooth-based many-to-many lighting & sensor networks

Benefits of mesh:

  • Extremely scalable
  • Multi-hop routing increases range
  • No single point of failure
  • Low power consumption for battery nodes
  • Ideal for smart buildings, lighting control, indoor/outdoor sensor grids

Example applications:

  • Wireless environmental sensors
  • Industrial sensor networks
  • Lighting control clusters
  • Distributed monitoring systems
  • Mesh-connected actuators or relay nodes

DTX treats mesh nodes as native BACnet devices, providing seamless integration across wired, WiFi, Bluetooth, and mesh networks.

Summary

DTX supports multiple wireless communication paths:

  • WiFi — full BACnet/IP capability on wireless hardware
  • Bluetooth (RUUVI and others) — automatic BLE sensor discovery and BACnet mapping
  • Wireless Long-Range DALI-2 — wireless lighting control integration
  • Radio Mesh (MIRA & BLE5) — scalable multi-hop wireless automation

This allows DTX to operate in environments where wired infrastructure is limited, expensive, or impossible — while maintaining complete BACnet interoperability and automation capabilities.

Developer's Guide

IDE walk through
The DTXr Javascript guide
Blockly tutorials

Updated by David Fredriksson 6 days ago · 98 revisions