By Tracy Markie, Chairman, LonMark International
The recent announcement by Renesas to discontinue the remaining Neuron® chip family has raised understandable questions across the LonWorks® community. But while this marks the end of a specific hardware era, it is by no means the end of the technology or its future potential.
At LonMark International, we view this as a pivotal transition—one that opens up new possibilities for innovation, interoperability, and flexibility. To help clarify the situation and outline the resources available to the industry, I want to share the full message recently sent to our members and LonWorks users around the world:
Dear Valued LonMark International Members,
I hope this message finds you well. As Chairman of the Board of Directors for LonMark International, I want to provide you with an important update regarding the future of LonWorks technology following Renesas’ recent announcement to discontinue the remaining Neuron family of devices.
While this development marks the end of an era for a foundational component in our ecosystem, it also presents a moment of transition—one that LonMark International is actively working to support on behalf of our members and the broader community. Rest assured, there are good, viable options to continue ongoing support, development, and manufacturing of LonWorks products. LonMark is committed to evaluating and sharing these options with you. We have updated the LonMark International website with information relevant to developers, integrators, and owners. We are also planning several informational webinars.
We want you to know this situation is still evolving, but here is what we know today:
1. Last-Time Purchase Opportunity:
We understand Renesas has announced the last-time buy window but looking at the possibility of extending this window, which would give companies more time to prepare. Although this is not yet confirmed, we strongly recommend that all stakeholders plan a last-time purchase to ensure continuity while other solutions are implemented. We will post official updates and purchasing guidance on www.lonmark.org as soon as they become available.
2. Discussions with Potential Partners:
We’ve been told Renesas has been in contact with potential partners regarding the transfer of manufacturing rights and collaboration with specialty distributors capable of supporting long-term inventory needs. As these discussions evolve, we will share verified information on LonMark.org to keep the community informed and prepared.
3. Available Alternative LonWorks-Compatible Solutions:
Multiple companies have developed LonWorks-compatible node designs that do not rely on the discontinued Neuron chips. These solutions are already available and are fully backward compatible, with some offering enhanced performance and modern capabilities. This also includes transceiver designs and compatible transformers for both FT and TP-1250 transceivers. A list of alternative solutions and provider contact information is now available at www.lonmark.org.
4. Open-Source Reinforcement:
We are expanding the open-source LonWorks code base and improving related documentation to ensure developers can continue innovating within the LonWorks ecosystem. For instance, two versions of the LON protocol stack are already available at: https://github.com/LonMarkTech. These stacks support the LON protocol over readily available media including 10BASE-T, 10BASE-T1L, and Wi-Fi. These resources, including repositories and usage guides, will be accessible through LonMark.org.
5. Tooling and Technology Contributions:
We have invited key stakeholders to share their LonWorks-related tools, technologies, and product documentation with the community. Information on available toolsets and future contributions will be centralized on LonMark.org as they are released.
6. Engineering Support for Redesigns:
Several organizations within the LonMark ecosystem are equipped to support redesign efforts and help companies transition to alternative solutions. Guidance on finding experienced engineering partners will also be available on LonMark.org to help members navigate these changes effectively.
7. Educational Resources and Events:
LonMark International is preparing webinars to support this transition. Event schedules, registration details, and access to all related content will be published on www.lonmark.org.
While change brings challenges, it also creates opportunities. We are confident that through collaboration, shared expertise, and timely action, our global community can successfully transition to the next chapter of LonWorks innovation.
Thank you for your continued commitment to open interoperability and to LonMark International. Please visit our website regularly for the latest developments, and don’t hesitate to reach out with questions or feedback.
Warm regards,
Tracy Markie
Chairman of the Board
LonMark International
A Call to Engage
The path forward for LonWorks is clear—and it’s full of possibility. With open-source initiatives, new silicon independence, and renewed collaboration among the global LonMark community, we are entering a new era of opportunity. Whether you’re a manufacturer, integrator, or specifier, now is the time to engage. Visit www.lonmark.orgto explore what’s next.
