MELBOURNE, Australia and BORDEAUX, France and RADEVORMWALD, Germany, July 16, 2025 – Semitech Semiconductor, Occitaline, and Safesquare have introduced the Babi-LON platform, a new hardware and software solution designed for LonWorks power line communication (PLC) networks. The platform is based on Semitech’s SM2400 multi-mode PLC transceiver and supports the EIA-709.2 protocol. This collaboration addresses the need for reliable, standards-based PLC solutions as demand grows for connected infrastructure in smart buildings and industrial automation.
The EIA-709.2 protocol, which sets the physical layer standard for LonWorks PLC networks, is used in building automation, smart lighting, transportation, and industrial control systems. As legacy solutions such as the PL3120 transceiver (originally developed by Echelon) are being discontinued, OEMs and system integrators are looking for long-term solutions to maintain support for both existing networks and new deployments.
Tier-one OEMs in smart metering, industrial automation, and transportation have integrated the SM2400 for its stable operation, support for multiple modulation procedures, and steady performance in noisy environments. By supporting the EIA-709.2 protocol, the SM2400 provides a replacement for previous transceivers, helping ensure availability for LonWorks-based systems.
The Babi-LON platform, based on the SM2400, provides a development environment and a ready-to-use solution for LonWorks devices. It uses interfaces and protocol stacks, making it easier for OEMs and system integrators to update and maintain LonWorks-based systems without redesign.
“We’re excited to partner with Occitaline and Safesquare to accelerate the transition to next-generation LonWorks PLC,” said Zeev Collin, CEO of Semitech Semiconductor. “The Babi-LON platform enables customers to seamlessly replace obsolete components, maintain their existing networks, and take advantage of the advanced capabilities of the SM2400.”
Occitaline and Safesquare, both recognized in LonWorks and industrial automation solutions, have integrated the SM2400 into Babi-LON offering, delivering software stacks and reference designs that simplify migration and new product development.
“By incorporating the SM2400, we’re able to offer a modern, fully supported EIA-709.2 platform with long-term availability and outstanding performance,” said Daniel Zotti, CEO of Occitaline. “This gives our customers a clear, confident path to upgrade legacy products and sustain mission-critical networks.”
Martin Mentzel, CEO of Safesquare, added: “Our customers can now continue building LonWorks-based power line networks with the assurance of a next-generation, multi-protocol foundation. The Babi-LON platform with the SM2400 is essential for preserving large installed bases and preparing for future expansions.”
Key benefits of the new Babi-LON platform:
- Seamless LonWorks support –compliance with EIA-709.2, ensuring interoperability with existing devices and legacy systems
- Guaranteed long-term supply (10+ years) – ensuring security of supply for lifecycle projects
- Accelerated time-to-market – turnkey modules, proven software stacks, and design-in support from Occitaline and Safesquare
- Superior PLC performance – communication over power lines, improved noise immunity, and extended range
Availability
SM2400 samples and evaluation kits with EIA-709.2 support are available through Semitech and its authorized sales partners.
The expanded Babi-LON platform and design-in support for customer projects from Occitaline and Safesquare will be available starting in September 2025.
Source: Semitech Semiconductor
About Occitaline
Occitaline, based in Plaisance-du-Touch near Toulouse, France, is a technology company specializing in building automation and smart infrastructure. Established in 2013 as a spin-off from Newron System, it brings over two decades of experience in distributed building management systems (BMS) using open protocols such as LON, BACnet, and Modbus. The company develops and manufactures network components including multi-protocol routers (Oxtopus), LoRaWAN gateways (OxBase), cybersecurity switches (OxBras), and cloud-based management tools (OxCloud). Its solutions are used across industries such as building automation, energy management, smart cities, and facility operations. Occitaline also provides professional training focused on BMS communication protocols. The company operates with a small team and maintains estimated annual revenue between €400,000 and €2 million. Its focus remains on delivering interoperable, standards-based infrastructure to support scalable, connected building systems.
About Safesquare
SafeSquare GmbH, based in Radevormwald, Germany, is a safety engineering and embedded systems firm established in 2007. The company develops and certifies safety-critical hardware and software in line with IEC 61508 standards, supporting applications up to SIL 3. Its offerings include risk assessments, software architecture, and development support for sectors such as machinery, medical devices, and industrial automation. SafeSquare also provides specialized technologies like SafetyLon, a certified extension of the LON protocol for safety applications, and Babi-LON, an embedded platform for secure IoT and industrial networking. The firm serves clients involved in functional safety, building systems, and equipment manufacturing. With a small team of technical specialists, SafeSquare operates as a private company. While it does not publicly report revenue, its scale and focus align with niche safety consultancies. The company maintains a clear emphasis on standards compliance, interoperability, and reliability in embedded safety systems.
About Semitech Semiconductor
Semitech Semiconductor, founded in 2010 and headquartered in Kensington, Victoria, Australia, is a fabless semiconductor company focused on communication technologies for power line and wireless systems. It develops chipsets that enable reliable data transmission over existing electrical infrastructure, supporting applications such as smart meters, solar inverters, street lighting, industrial automation, and vehicle-to-grid communication. Its solutions are designed for sectors including utilities, transportation, and industrial IoT, where long-range, no-new-wires connectivity is essential. The company also operates in the U.S., with a presence in California. Semitech serves clients who need robust connectivity in environments where traditional networking infrastructure is impractical. The company is privately held and operates with a small team. While it does not publish revenue figures, its technology is aligned with broader trends in smart infrastructure and grid modernization. Its affiliated partner, Semtech Corp., reported fiscal 2025 revenue of approximately $909 million, reflecting broader adoption of complementary communication technologies.