This program builds on a successful program the LonMark Association implemented nearly a decade ago to test and certify products for conformance. LonMark has developed a multi-phase, standardized testing program with local-language support whereby individuals can become certified at various technical levels via Web-based proficiency testing. The program offering will range from support for large company testing and certifying staff at reduced costs to individual testing at multiple test centers around the world.

The LonMark Certified Professional, the first certification designation LonMark will be offering, will apply to people passing the basic test. It will provide a person with the credentials associated with basic level knowledge of LonWorks® technology including terminology, basic architecture, network management tools, basic network engineering, system design, configuration, wiring, termination, routers, network interfaces, advanced system diagnostics, and HMI integration. This certification would apply to network integrators such as HVAC, lighting, security, and building automation and controls engineers.

The LonMark Certified Integrator designation is for companies that have on staff at least one LonMark Certified Professional and have also completed additional practical demonstration of LonWorks technology abilities. This designation may also be used by regional LonMark Affiliates to further certify companies according to local/regional requirements.

Future phases of the program will offer designations for installer or technician level certification targeting an electrical or mechanical level installer. Plans are also underway for expert area certification as well in areas such as enterprise integration, advanced system architecture, and advanced system diagnostics.

Test candidates can utilize a number of existing education programs supported around the globe. For example, an existing textbook, the LonWorks Installation Handbook (ISBN 978-3-8007-2906-7), is available to assist candidates in preparing for the first level exam. Additional sources of preparation are available through standard courses offered by a variety of providers worldwide.

"The foundations for ensuring the highest quality of training have been set. This is about providing the LonMark value-add and we are proud to be able to provide this service for qualified installers and integrators," said Ron Bernstein, executive director of LonMark International. "There are literally thousands of interoperable products available in the market. As the use of LonMark products has increased, we can now provide the means of enabling qualified people to install, commission, integrate, and support LonWorks solutions. It is anticipated that specifiers will look to LonMark Certified Professionals as the only qualified people to work on LonMark Systems and the certification will become standard requirements in open systems specifications."

More information on the certification program will soon be available on the LonMark International Website at www.lonmark.org including testing locations, registration information, and program details.

Publication date: 09/25/2006