Introduction to Building Automation

Systems

Course No: A02-013

Credit: 2 PDH

Ahmad Hammouz, P.Eng., LEED AP.

Continuing Education and Development, Inc.

P: (877) 322-5800
info@cedengineering.com

www.cedengineering.com
 Introduction to Building Automation Systems – A02-013

1.0 Introduction to Building Automation Systems

Building automation systems (BAS) are centralized systems that manage and automate various
building systems such as: HVAC, refrigeration, plumbing, electrical power, lighting, fire
protection, life safety and other building systems. The integration of these building systems
through BAS allows for automated control, management, and real-time monitoring enabling
greater operational efficiency as well as improved occupancy comfort. The automation of the
operation of multiple building systems under BAS allowed achieving complex functionalities and
sequences of operation that were not possible prior under older pneumatic control systems for
example.

1.1 Importance of BAS

• BAS help in minimizing energy consumption by automating certain building systems such
as HVAC and lighting systems based on real-time data from sensors. For example, HVAC
systems can modulate their heating/cooling/ventilation output capacities based on
occupancy levels or outdoor air temperature, ensuring that energy is only used when
necessary.

• By automating parameters in certain building systems, BAS ensure optimal comfort for
building occupants. For example, lighting systems can adjust to provide the ideal
illumination based on occupancy and daylight levels.

• By integrating life safety and fire protection systems to the BAS, building operators can
monitor and control the safety and security of buildings through their operator interface.
For example, in the event of a fire, the BAS can send automated notifications (automated
alarms, calls, text messages, and emails) to building operators and automatically shut down
HVAC systems to prevent smoke from circulating. Furthermore, the BAS can be
programmed to automatically open emergency exits, making it easier for occupants to
evacuate safely.

• Modern BAS can collect vast amounts of data from a variety of sensors. This data can be
analyzed to provide insights about the building performance, energy usage, and system
maintenance status. Building managers can use this information to optimize building

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operations, perform predictive maintenance, and make data-driven decisions for future
building improvements.

1.2 Historical Evolution of BAS

BAS have undergone significant advancements over the past few decades, evolving from basic
pneumatic controls to modern Direct Digital Controls (DDC) allowing for real-time data collection
from various systems, remote monitoring and automated control, therefore optimizing the
operation of building systems and providing valuable insights into the overall performance of
buildings.

1.2.1 Pneumatic Control Systems (1950s-1970s)

• Pneumatic controls marked a significant advancement, especially for HVAC system

controls. Pneumatic control systems rely on compressed air to send signals to various
control components, such as damper and valve actuators. Typical system components
include air compressors, air dryers, filters, and control devices that regulate the pressure of
the air delivered to the system. The control signals adjust the operation of HVAC
components based on control inputs (space temperature, outside air temperature, etc.)
which are transmitted through the pneumatic tubing.

• Pneumatic controls were limited to individual building systems without interoperability.

Since these systems lacked interoperability, different building systems could not
communicate or work together to achieve certain sequences of operation. Furthermore, the
fact that they rely on air pressure made them less responsive and accurate compared to
modern digital controls. In addition, they require regular maintenance to ensure that air
compressors, filters, and other components are working effectively to avoid potential leaks
and inefficiencies. Figure 1 below indicates the basic components of pneumatic control
systems.

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Figure 1: Basic Pneumatic Control System Schematic

1.2.2 Electric Control Systems (1970s - 1980s)

• Electric control systems gained popularity in the 1970s and 1980s and started replacing
pneumatic control systems in buildings. These systems utilize relays, time delays, clocks,
thermostats, electric actuators, and various other electric devices to control HVAC systems.
These systems required less calibration (compared to pneumatic control systems) and it
was easier to modify the sequence of operation for electric control systems, compared to
pneumatic control systems.

1.2.3 Direct Digital Control (DDC) Systems (1980s - Present)

• DDC systems presented a major advancement by replacing analog electric controls with
digital programmable systems. A defining feature of DDC systems is the adoption of open
communication protocols such as BACnet, which allows interoperability between various
systems and third-party equipment like chillers and boilers, enabling the customization of
sequences of operations involving multiple building systems and equipment
manufacturers.
• DDC systems can monitor and control multiple building functions from a single location,
supporting facility operators in real-time remote management of different building systems.
Furthermore, DDC systems leverage sophisticated supervisory controls, which not only

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provide advanced operational capabilities but can also integrate with the electric grid,
enabling better energy management and load response.
• With the advancement of internet, BAS adopted web-based interfaces and cloud storage,
allowing operators to manage buildings and access data remotely.

Figure 2: Direct Digital Control (DDC) System Panel

1.2.4 The future of BAS

The Internet of Things (IoT) has enabled devices within BAS to communicate and share data in
real time, further enhancing the adaptability of these systems to respond to conditions in real-time.
Furthermore, modern BAS use machine learning for predictive maintenance and fault detection
minimizing operational costs of buildings resulting in improved energy efficiency and operational
longevity of building systems. The next frontier in BAS is achieving fully autonomous operations.
Such systems will continuously monitor and adjust to optimize energy efficiency, occupant
comfort, and system performance without human intervention.

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1.3 Components of the Modern BAS

The core components of BAS are sensors, field devices, controllers, communication networks, and
user interfaces, each playing a specific role within the system to ensure intended functionalities
are achieved.

1.3.1 Sensors

Sensors are the fundamental components of BAS and are responsible for collecting data from
various environments within the building. They measure parameters like temperature, humidity,
occupancy levels, light intensity, and air quality. The information gathered by sensors is crucial for
the BAS to maintain system controls within parameters and respond to changes effectively.

1.3.2 Field devices:

Field devices include components like airflow monitors and differential pressure sensors. Field
devices typically respond to signals from BAS controllers to achieve the intended function or
sequence of operation. For example, control valves and dampers regulate fluid and air flows within
HVAC systems and respond to commands from BAS controllers to adjust their position based on
certain conditions.

1.3.3 Controllers

Controllers are the brain of BAS. They receive data from sensors, process it, and send commands
to other system components, such as field devices, HVAC units, lighting systems, etc. Controllers
use algorithms and predefined rules to make decisions, ensuring that building operations are
aligned with the desired set parameters to achieve the intended functions of occupancy comfort,
energy efficiency, and safety.

1.3.4 Communication Protocols

Communication protocols allow different components of BAS to communicate effectively. These

protocols standardize communication between devices, enabling seamless integration and
interoperability among diverse systems. BACnet and Modbus are two widely used protocols.

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1.3.5 User Interface and Operator Workstation

The user interface, often a terminal or dashboard, is where facility managers or operators interact
with BAS. It provides a centralized platform for monitoring system performance, adjusting
settings, and receiving alerts and alarms about potential operational issues. The interface is
designed to present information in an intuitive way, allowing operators to manage the BAS easily
and respond to system needs in real time.

1.3.6 Network Infrastructure

BAS networks typically use Ethernet and BACnet protocols for data communication throughout a
structured network of routers, switches, and cables. There are also wireless communication
protocols like Zigbee for added flexibility. While some systems incorporate internet connections
for remote monitoring and control, other systems focus on local networks for security and
reliability.

Figure 3: Building Automation System Components

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1.4 Networks and Communication Protocols of BAS

BAS rely heavily on network communications to manage, monitor, and control various systems
within buildings. Effective network communication ensures that HVAC, lighting, security, and
other building systems operate to achieve the intended function and the programmed sequence of
operation. This section explores the fundamental aspects of network communications in building
automation, including key communication protocols that enable interoperability between different
devices and systems.

1.4.1 Building Automation Networks

BAS networks often involve numerous devices communicating across various protocols. These
networks range from simple, single-purpose connections to complex, multi-protocol systems. BAS
networks typically consist of routers, switches, and cables connected to field devices, controllers,
operator workstations and other BAS components allowing different parts of the automation
system to work together to achieve operational functionalities. Reliable network communication
allows these components to exchange data, perform commands, and provide feedback to achieve
intended sequences of operation, and enhance the building’s efficiency, safety, and comfort.

1.4.2 Key Communication Protocols in Building Automation

There are several communication protocols that are pivotal in building automation, and enable
diverse devices from different manufacturers to interact. These protocols ensure that information
is transmitted accurately and efficiently within the network.

1.4.2.1 BACnet (Building Automation and Control Network)

BACnet is an open communication protocol developed initially in 1987 specifically for building
automation. It allows various systems such as HVAC and lighting systems to communicate
seamlessly across the BAS network. BACnet supports both wired and wireless communications,
providing flexibility in network design. BACnet devices use a range of physical layers, including
Ethernet, EIA-485, and IP-based networks. Refer to Figures 4 and 5 below to learn more on
BACnet network data transmission and network layers.

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1.4.2.2. Modbus
Modbus is another widely used protocol in industrial and building automation applications.
Originally designed for serial communication, Modbus has evolved to include Modbus TCP/IP,
allowing it to operate over Ethernet networks. Modbus is known for its simplicity and is often used
for communication between electronic devices, especially in HVAC and energy management
applications.

1.4.3 Ethernet Networks

Ethernet is a networking technology that supports building automation protocols such as
BACnet/IP and Modbus TCP/IP. The widespread adoption and high data transfer rates of Ethernet
makes it a preferred choice for network backbones. Ethernet also supports the integration of
devices within IP networks, enabling remote monitoring and control over the Internet.

Figure 4: Open Systems Interconnection Network Model

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Figure 5: BACNet Layers and Equivalent OSI Layers

1.5 Network Topologies in Building Automation

The physical layout, or topology, of a building automation network significantly affects its
performance and reliability. Common topologies include:

1.5.1 Daisy-Chain (or Point-to-Point)

This topology connects each device to the next in a series, with the last device terminating the
chain. EIA-485 (RS-485) networks often use daisy-chain configurations due to their simplicity
and cost-effectiveness.

1.5.2 Star
Devices connect to a central hub or switch. Ethernet networks frequently use star topologies, as
they provide centralized control and scalability.

1.5.3. Ring
In a ring topology, each device connects to two others, forming a closed loop. While less
common, this topology can offer redundancy, as data can travel in both directions. Refer to
Figures 6 and 7 below for illustrations on BAS networks and network topologies.

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Figure 6: Building Automation System Network Example

Figure 7: Network Topologies Examples

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2.0 Introduction to Energy Efficiency in Building Automation

Energy efficiency in building automation is essential due to the rising need to optimize energy
usage and reduce operational greenhouse gas emissions in buildings. BAS play a critical role in
optimizing energy consumption by controlling and monitoring various building functions.
Specifically, efficient HVAC automation can significantly reduce energy use while maintaining
indoor air quality and comfort.

2.1 Principles of Efficient HVAC System Operation

The following principles apply to operating heating and cooling plants in buildings in an energy-
efficient manner:

• Demand-dependent air distribution: Supply air should be processed (heating, cooling,

humidify, and dehumidify) depending on demand, only in the appropriate amount and
demand (outside air ratio, temperature, humidity).

• The energy from exhaust air should be used for energy recovery.

• Minimize losses at air handling and in distribution networks.

• Correct balancing of air volume is required to be able to use the design air volume under
all operating conditions per room or zone.

• Shut down all plants or parts of plants if no demand is pending.

• Adapt operating times to occupancy.

• Group and provide common supply to areas with the same use or similar behavior (building
orientation with the corresponding solar radiation for example).

• Maintain room conditions such as temperature, humidity, and air quality within comfort
range during occupancy.

• Define an operating concept with information on room conditions, occupancy, and

operating times, etc.

• Demand-oriented energy transfer to achieve comfortable room conditions.

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• For unintentional user interventions (e.g. ventilation losses from open windows), energy
transfer is reduced and then only released again in case safety limits are breached.

2.2 HVAC Automation and Control Parameters

It’s important to understand control parameters that contribute to efficient operation of HVAC
systems. These parameters operate at different levels, from controlling air volume and temperature
in individual rooms to managing air distribution throughout a building. By integrating advanced
control mechanisms, these systems can adjust in real time based on occupancy, air quality, and
other conditions.

2.2.1 Room Level Control Parameters (General)

• At the room level, HVAC systems focus on precise control of environmental conditions
tailored to individual spaces. This involves managing the airflow, temperature, humidity,
and air quality based on the specific needs of the zone. The room-level controls help ensure
that each space receives the appropriate level of ventilation and conditioning without
wasting energy on unoccupied or low-demand areas.

Below are typical parameters controlled at the room-level:

• Air volume control

• Supply air temperature control
• Air humidity control
• Air quality control (outside air to supply air ratio)
• Integrated individual room control
- Occupancy
- Window contact to limit energy loss in room
- Demand signals for air volume, temperature, humidity, and air quality

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2.2.2 Distribution Level Control Parameters (General)

• The distribution section of the ventilation and air conditioning system focuses on managing
the air movement throughout the building, ensuring that air is appropriately distributed to
various zones based on demand. This involves controlling the volume of air sent to
different areas, regulating static pressure within the ducts, and treating the air before it
reaches specific zones (e.g., heating, cooling, humidifying, or dehumidifying). Distribution
systems ensure that air is delivered where it’s needed most, adjusting dynamically to match
the requirements of individual spaces, and thus optimizing overall energy efficiency. By
using techniques like Variable Air Volume (VAV) systems and displacement ventilation,
the system can reduce energy waste by supplying only the amount of conditioned air
required for each zone. This part of the system is essential in maintaining balance across
the building, especially in large facilities where different areas may have vastly different
temperature and air quality requirements. Below are typical parameters controlled at the
distribution-level:

• Air volume control (Supply air volume)

• Static pressure control in air ducts
• Heating
• Cooling
• Humidification

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Figure 8: VAV System Illustration

3.0 Demand Response and BAS

Demand Response (DR) plays a pivotal role in managing peak electricity demand in buildings.
DR refers to the modification of energy usage by building systems during peak demand periods,
typically to reduce load in response to price signals or grid emergencies. DR is essential for
improving electricity market performance, reducing grid stress, and managing rising electricity
costs. In the context of BAS, DR becomes an effective tool to dynamically adjust energy
consumption in response to external signals.

3.1 Role of BAS in DR

BAS provide automated control capabilities that can be leveraged for DR. Demand Side
Management (DSM) frameworks classify load management into three categories: energy
efficiency, daily peak load management, and DR. For DR, buildings can rely on BAS to
dynamically reduce loads during DR events. The main strategies are:

• Demand Limiting: Reducing energy use when demand nears pre-determined thresholds.
• Demand Shifting: Shifting energy usage from peak periods to off-peak times.
• Demand Shedding: Temporarily reduce non-essential loads during critical peak periods.

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3.2 Automated Demand Response (ADR)

Automated Demand Response (ADR) use BAS to automatically respond to DR events without
human intervention. The architecture of this system allows buildings to receive DR signals and
automatically adjust energy consumption based on pre-programmed strategies without manual
human controls. The ADR infrastructure involves sending DR signals to the building's BAS, which
then executes demand-limiting or shedding strategies in an automated fashion. For example,
during a DR event, the system might automatically increase the setpoint for cooling systems to
reduce electricity consumption.

Multiple case studies have been conducted that demonstrate the potential of ADR in reducing peak
demand. One study in California demonstrated the use of global setpoint adjustments, which raised
the cooling setpoint from 72°F to 78°F, reducing peak demand by 811 kW with no thermal comfort
complaints. Similarly, DR trials conducted at multiple sites showed peak demand reductions
ranging from 8% to 56%.

In these case studies, the buildings with advanced BAS were able to participate in DR programs
by automating the reduction of HVAC and lighting loads during peak demand periods. The results
showed significant demand savings, particularly in buildings using advanced DDC-based BAS.

The Demand Response Research Center (DRRC) has focused on developing ADR strategies for
large commercial buildings. ADR trials have shown that buildings with BAS can automate demand
reductions in response to price signals, significantly lowering electricity consumption during peak
periods.
In New York City for example, the integration of DR strategies in buildings like the New York
Times headquarters has demonstrated the potential of BAS-enabled DR. By combining advanced
shading, lighting controls, and HVAC controls, buildings can dynamically adjust energy use to
participate in DR programs without compromising occupant comfort.

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Figure 9: Automated Demand Response (ADR) Illustration

4.0 Predictive Maintenance

Predictive maintenance is a data-driven strategy used to identify potential equipment failures

before they happen. Instead of relying on reactive maintenance (after equipment fails) or scheduled
preventive maintenance (based on fixed intervals), predictive maintenance uses real-time data to
predict when maintenance will be required. Predictive maintenance strategies assist building
operators in optimizing their operation and maintenance activities, resulting in reliability
improvement of critical systems and minimizing equipment downtime.

4.1 Wireless Predictive Maintenance

Traditional asset reliability programs in buildings often face several challenges, such as high costs
for sensor installation and setup, time-consuming configuration processes, and the complexity of
wired networks. Many facilities rely on extensive cabling and costly hardware to implement
monitoring solutions, which can be inefficient and cumbersome for large or complex buildings.
Modern predictive maintenance solutions use wireless instrumentation, which significantly

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reduces setup requirements. Wireless sensors can be deployed quickly, leveraging existing IT
infrastructure like Wi-Fi or cellular networks, and providing real-time data on equipment health
without the need for costly and labor-intensive installations.

The introduction of wireless instrumentation was a game-changer for predictive maintenance.

Wireless sensors allow building operators to monitor critical equipment continuously and in real
time, without the need for extensive wiring or IT infrastructure. These sensors collect a variety of
data, including equipment vibration and sound which are used to predict equipment performance
and diagnose potential faults. Benefits of using wireless sensors in predictive maintenance include:

• Ease of Installation: Wireless sensors are “plug and play” devices that can be easily
mounted on equipment, such as motors, pumps, and compressors.
• Cost-Effective: By avoiding the need for complex and expensive wiring, wireless sensors
reduce both installation and operational costs.
• Flexibility: These sensors can be added or adjusted on demand, allowing building operators
to scale their monitoring solutions as needed.

4.2 Real-Time Monitoring and Data Analytics

The core of predictive maintenance lies in continuous monitoring and data analysis. Sensors collect
data on various parameters, such as vibration levels, temperature, RPM, and magnetic flux. This
data is then transmitted to a cloud-based analytics platform where advanced algorithms analyze
the equipment's health. Using these analytics, BAS can identify anomalies and inefficiencies in
real time. Early detection of these issues allows facility managers to intervene before a fault leads
to equipment failure, reducing downtime and avoiding costly repairs.

4.3 Predicting Equipment Failures

One of the most important features of predictive maintenance is its ability to predict remaining
useful life (RUL) of equipment. By analyzing historical and real-time data, predictive models can
forecast when equipment is likely to fail, allowing for proactive maintenance planning. This
approach enables building operators to plan maintenance activities in advance, avoid unnecessary
maintenance on healthy equipment, and reduce unplanned downtime as a result of equipment
failures. Furthermore, predictive maintenance systems provide early warnings of potential issues

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through anomaly detection, enabling building operators to investigate and resolve issues before
they become critical.

4.4 Predictive Maintenance Integration with BAS

Predictive maintenance solutions can seamlessly integrate with BAS to provide comprehensive
monitoring and analysis of building equipment. The integration allows data from sensors to be fed
into a centralized platform where it can be correlated with other building data, such as HVAC
performance, lighting systems, and energy consumption. This integration provides building
operators with a holistic view of their building’s performance, allowing them to make data-driven
decisions to improve efficiency and reduce operational costs. Additionally, predictive maintenance
systems can integrate with existing Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS),
Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) platforms, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
systems, ensuring maintenance information is transmitted across various systems.

4.5 Edge Analytics

Edge analytics refers to the processing of data at the sensor level, allowing for faster identification
of equipment issues without the need to send all data to the cloud. This approach reduces latency
and ensures that critical equipment issues are detected as soon as they arise. In the context of
predictive maintenance, edge analytics allows building systems to detect faults in real time, even
when network connectivity is intermittent.

The ability to process data locally also reduces the overall bandwidth requirements for cloud
communication, making predictive maintenance solutions more efficient and scalable for large
commercial buildings.

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Figure 10: Predictive Maintenance Solution Example - Honeywell Forge Performance+ for
Buildings

5.0 BAS Integration with Renewable Energy Systems

The integration of BAS with renewable energy systems is crucial due to the rising need for
sustainable and efficient building energy solutions. Renewable energy sources such as solar, wind,
and geothermal can be effectively managed and optimized through BAS to reduce reliance on
traditional power grids and lower greenhouse gas emissions. However, challenges arise when
integrating buildings with renewable energy sources, including intermittency of solar and wind
power, variability in energy production and storage capacity, and the need for sophisticated control
systems to manage energy flows.
BAS can integrate renewable energy systems into a building’s energy infrastructure by connecting
solar panels, wind turbines, or geothermal systems to the central control system. The integration
process typically involves monitoring energy production, managing energy storage, and balancing
energy supply and demand as follows:

• Solar Energy Integration: BAS can monitor and control photovoltaic (PV) systems to
optimize solar energy production. For example, it can track solar panel performance, adjust
energy use based on solar availability, and store excess energy in batteries for later use.
• Wind Energy Integration: In buildings connected to wind energy systems, BAS can manage
the variability of wind power generation. By continuously monitoring wind speed and

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power output, BAS can determine the best times to store energy or feed it into the building’s
energy system.
• Geothermal Energy Integration: Geothermal systems are used for heating and cooling in
buildings by leveraging the earth’s temperature beneath the earth's surface. BAS can
control the flow of energy between the geothermal heat pumps and the building, ensuring
that the heating and cooling systems operate efficiently. The BAS can also manage
geothermal energy storage and distribution to maintain a comfortable indoor environment
while minimizing energy consumption.

5.1 Energy Storage and BAS

One of the key components of integrating renewable energy into building energy systems is energy
storage. Renewable energy sources such as solar and wind are intermittent, meaning energy
production may not always match the building's energy demands. Energy storage systems, such as
batteries, are essential for storing excess energy produced during periods of high production and
releasing it when needed.

BAS can manage these energy storage systems by:

• Monitoring battery levels and ensuring they are charged during times of excess production.
• Controlling the discharge of stored energy when renewable energy generation is low or
demand is high.
• Coordinating energy storage with other energy management strategies, such as demand
response and load shifting.

By managing energy storage effectively, BAS ensures that buildings can make the most of
renewable energy and reduce reliance on grid-supplied power.

5.2 Load Balancing and Demand Response

Renewable energy integration requires efficient load balancing to match energy supply with
demand. BAS can adjust building systems in real-time to respond to fluctuations in renewable
energy production. For instance, during periods of high solar power generation, BAS can reduce
reliance on grid power and increase the use of solar power to meet building demands.

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In addition, BAS can participate in demand response programs by adjusting building energy
consumption in response to external signals from the grid. This is particularly useful when
integrating renewable energy systems, as it allows buildings to reduce consumption during peak
periods or when renewable energy production is low.

Integrating BAS with renewable energy systems offers numerous benefits for building owners,
operators, and the environment:

• BAS helps optimize the use of renewable energy, reducing the need for grid electricity and
lowering energy costs.
• By maximizing the use of clean energy, buildings can reduce their carbon footprint and
contribute to environmental sustainability goals.
• With energy storage systems managed by BAS, buildings can maintain energy supply even
during grid outages or periods of low renewable energy production.

5.3 Challenges in BAS and Renewable Energy Integration

While integrating BAS with renewable energy systems offers significant benefits, there are
challenges to consider:

• Intermittency of Renewable Energy: Solar and wind energy production can be intermittent,
requiring sophisticated energy storage and control systems to manage supply and demand
effectively.
• Cost of Implementation: The initial costs of integrating renewable energy systems and BAS
can be high, though long-term savings can offset these expenses.
• Interoperability Issues: Ensuring that BAS can communicate effectively with various
renewable energy systems and storage solutions can be complex, requiring robust system
integration and standardization.

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Figure 11: BAS Integration with Renewable Energy

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Glossary of Terms:

Actuators: Devices that move or control the flow of fluids (such as air or water) in building systems
through actuating dampers and valves.
Air Handling Unit (AHU): The component of the HVAC system that conditions and circulates air.
Air Quality Control: The process of monitoring and managing indoor air quality through sensors
and system adjustments.
Air Volume Control: The regulation of air volume supplied by HVAC systems based on real-time
demand through BAS.
Alarm Management: BAS functionality that generates alerts when systems deviate from set
parameters or fail.
BACnet: A widely-used communication protocol for BAS that allows different building systems
to communicate.
BAS Controllers: Devices that process sensor data and send commands to adjust parameters of
building systems according to sequences of operation.
Building Automation System (BAS): Centralized systems that automate, control, and manage
building systems such as plumbing, HVAC, lighting, and life safety systems.
Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) Sensor: A sensor that measures CO₂ levels, helping BAS control air quality
in buildings.
Closed Protocols: Proprietary communication protocols that limit interoperability between BAS
devices from different manufacturers.
Cloud-Based Monitoring: The practice of using cloud services to monitor BAS data for analysis
and optimization.
Commissioning: The process of testing and verifying that building systems are installed and
operate as intended.
Communication Protocols: Standardized methods of communication between BAS devices.
Common BAS protocols include BACnet and Modbus.
Data Analytics: The analysis of data collected by BAS to optimize building performance and
identify potential improvements.
Daylight Harvesting: A BAS feature that adjusts artificial lighting based on available natural
daylight to save energy.
Demand Response (DR): A building operational strategy where building energy usage is adjusted
during peak demand times to reduce strain on the electrical grid.

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Demand-Controlled Ventilation (DCV): A ventilation strategy typically controlled through CO2

levels in spaces where outdoor airflow rates are adjusted to control CO2 levels in spaces.
Differential Pressure Sensor: A sensor that measures pressure differential in HVAC systems.
Ethernet: Networking infrastructure component used in BAS to enable high-speed communication
between devices.
Energy Management and Control System (EMCS): Similar to BAS, but focused specifically on
managing energy consumption.
Energy Metering: BAS capability to measure and track energy consumption in different building
systems.
Energy Recovery: Systems that capture waste energy (like heat) and reuse it for efficiency.
Fault Detection and Diagnostics (FDD): BAS tools that detect and diagnose equipment faults,
allowing for timely maintenance.
Fault Tolerance: The ability of BAS to continue operating despite the failure of certain
components.
Feedback Loop: A process where sensor data informs the BAS, which adjusts systems based on
that data.
Field Devices: Hardware components like airflow monitors and differential pressure sensors that
monitor and control parameters under BAS control.
Filter Monitoring: A BAS function that tracks the condition of HVAC filters to alert building
operators when maintenance is needed, usually through differential pressure sensors.
Free Cooling: An energy-saving technique to cool buildings by using outdoor air when conditions
permit.
Gateway: A device that allows communication between different BAS systems or protocols.
Graphical User Interface (GUI): A visual display that allows BAS operators to control and monitor
building systems.
Humidity Control: Management of indoor humidity levels using humidifiers and dehumidifiers.
Humidity Sensor: A device that measures the moisture level in the air and reports it to the HVAC
control system for climate control.
HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning): Systems in buildings that regulate
temperature, humidity, and air quality.
Integration: The ability of BAS to combine different building systems (e.g., lighting, security,
HVAC) into one centralized system and platform.

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Lighting Control: The automation of the level of lighting in a building through BAS or stand-alone
controls.
Load Shedding: BAS action to reduce non-critical energy loads during peak demand to prevent
grid overload.
Modbus: A communication protocol used for industrial and building automation applications.
Network Infrastructure: The physical and digital setup that allows BAS components to
communicate, including cabling, routers, and switches.
Occupancy-Based Control: BAS functionality that adjusts systems like lighting and HVAC based
on real-time occupancy data.
Occupancy Sensors: Sensors that detect the presence of people in a space to adjust lighting, HVAC,
and other systems.
Occupant Comfort: A set of parameters associated with the comfort of building occupants,
typically controlled by BAS, and related to temperature, humidity, lighting, and air quality.
Open Protocols: Standardized communication protocols that allow devices from different
manufacturers to work together in a BAS.
Pneumatic Control Systems: Early automation systems that used air pressure to control HVAC
components in buildings.
Predictive Maintenance: Maintenance driven by data from BAS, predicting system failures before
they happen.
Real-Time Monitoring: Continuous real-time monitoring of the parameters associated with
building systems through BAS to detect and respond to operational changes instantly.
Remote Access: The ability to access and control BAS from off-site locations via the internet.
Retro-Commissioning: Updating and optimizing older systems to improve efficiency and
performance.
Room-Level Control: BAS management of individual spaces in a building, such as temperature
and lighting.
Scheduling: The ability of BAS to automate system operations (e.g., HVAC, lighting) based on
predefined time schedules.
Sensors: Devices that measure physical parameters like temperature, humidity, occupancy, and
light intensity.
Sequence of Operations: A predefined set of instructions for BAS to follow when operating
building systems.

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Setpoint: The target value for system parameters (e.g., temperature) that BAS uses to regulate
systems.
Static Pressure Control: Control process of regulating pressure within HVAC ducts to maintain
airflow balance.
Supervisory Control: The high-level control by BAS that oversees all building systems, ensuring
they work together optimally.
Thermal Zoning: The division of a building into zones with independent climate control.
Thermostat: A temperature sensor and control device used to regulate temperature in HVAC
systems.
User Interface (UI): The control dashboard or software where operators monitor and adjust BAS
settings.
Variable Air Volume (VAV) Systems: A type of air terminal that adjusts airflow based on demand.
Zigbee: A wireless communication standard used in BAS to connect devices together without
physical cables.

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