The rule.box Digital 2xIn, 2xOut from Wiesemann & Theis is a modern, compact control center for building automation and Industry 4.0. It combines powerful hardware with the intuitive Node-RED development environment, enabling easy creation of automated workflows – from sensor to actuator. With digital interfaces (2 x inputs / 2 x outputs in 24 V technology), a browser-based flow editor, and flexible PoE power supply, the device is ideally suited for smart applications, control tasks, and IoT projects.

The rule.box Digital operates reliably, energy-efficiently, and integrates seamlessly into existing networks. Preinstalled nodes allow immediate interaction with Wiesemann & Theis Web-IOs, Web thermometers, and Com-Servers. The system can also be expanded with nodes from other manufacturers to integrate sensors, cloud services, or control devices from different brands.

Simple automation with Node-RED

Node-RED is a visual development tool that enables complex control logic through drag-and-drop. Users graphically connect input, processing, and output nodes to create “flows”. The rule.box Digital comes with Node-RED fully installed, so automation can begin immediately.

Example: A door sensor sends a signal via the digital input, which Node-RED processes to trigger a relay via the output that activates a lamp or alarm. This enables standalone, web-based logic control without external PLCs or additional hardware.

Its intuitive operation makes Node-RED ideal for both experts and beginners – without traditional programming.

Ready-to-use digital inputs and outputs

The two 24 V digital inputs are equipped with 32-bit pulse counters, suitable for precise signal and pulse detection from sensors, pushbuttons, or measurement devices. Typical applications include:

• Level detection using pulse generators
• Detecting switching operations via proximity sensors
• Recording operating cycles or equipment counters

The two digital outputs (sink/current drive up to 500 mA) can directly control actuators – such as signal lights, relays, valves, or pumps – without requiring additional transistor drivers or control modules, simplifying installation considerably.

Network connectivity and integration

The rule.box Digital features a fast Ethernet interface for easy integration into existing networks. Combined with numerous Node-RED communication nodes, the device can exchange data via Modbus, MQTT, REST API, or HTTPS, becoming a universal bridge between traditional field signals and IT systems.

Web-IO, Web thermometer, and Com-Server nodes allow Wiesemann & Theis devices to be incorporated into automation workflows. Additional nodes can extend compatibility to sensors, cloud platforms, or third-party systems. Non-public custom nodes can be integrated on request.

Energy efficiency and PoE power supply

Power can be supplied either via Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) or through a 24–48 V DC screw terminal. PoE significantly reduces installation effort by eliminating separate power cabling. Buffer capacitors ensure a controlled shutdown in case of power interruptions, preventing data loss.

With its low-power architecture, the rule.box Digital runs reliably in continuous operation – ideal for energy-optimized smart building or production environments.

Data processing & visualization

Data can be stored locally in the file system or in databases such as MariaDB or SQLite. The integrated Node-RED dashboard provides visual real-time display of values and statuses. Users can create interactive interfaces to display pulse counts or manually toggle digital outputs.

The customizable dashboard can include status messages, charts, or control buttons – accessible from a browser on a PC, tablet, or smartphone.

Quick commissioning with WuTility

Setup is handled using the proven WuTility tool, which detects the connected rule.box in the network within a few clicks. Configuration is then performed via the Web-Based Management interface, ideal for installers and integrators seeking rapid deployment.

Standards compliance and industrial build quality

The rule.box Digital meets all requirements for EMC immunity and protection:

• EN 61000-6-2 – immunity
• EN 55032 + A1 Class B – emissions
• EN 61000-3-2 / EN 61000-3-3 – electrical compatibility

Its rugged housing allows use in challenging industrial environments. Wiesemann & Theis provides a five-year warranty – proof of the system’s durability and quality.

Application examples

• Building automation: control lighting based on motion signals and daylight levels
• Process control: automatic pump regulation based on fill level with real-time dashboard analytics
• Alarm management: activating acoustic and visual signals based on specific input states

Versatile use cases

Whether for local equipment control, as a gateway between sensors and the cloud, or for data visualization, the rule.box Digital 2xIn, 2xOut is a multifunctional tool for implementing tailored automation solutions. Its flexibility makes it suitable for both smart building applications and industrial IoT deployments.

Efficient automation in a compact form

The rule.box Digital 2xIn, 2xOut combines flexible hardware with intelligent software. With Node-RED, digital I/O interfaces, PoE, data logging, and dashboard visualization, it delivers a complete IoT automation solution in one device. Compact, reliable, and versatile – a true control hub for modern automation requirements.