The 1604 system differs in that it consists of many small control modules located throughout the building. The most common of these is a Smart Switch. These modules are connected together by a data network. This allows them to interact, giving the appearance of a much larger and more complex system. One advantages of the modular approach is a form of parallel processing.
Many modules can be busy all at the same time without slowing each other down.
This results in very good performance at a very competitive price. Another advantage is cost proportional to system size. A small economical system can consist of one or two modules, a very large system can consist of hundreds of modules. Unlike the other systems, there is no need to purchase the expensive control panel just to get started. One switch module, a power supply module and a couple of small output modules will provide 3 dimmable lighting circuits, one area of heating control and 2 security zones usually for less cost than a small security alarm panel.