Have you ever heard of the saying, “Communication is the key to success?” The same adage applies to the world of building automation. Controls protocols are standardized forms of communication that allow the equipment in a building to communicate. There are many types of protocols, but there is a big difference in Open Protocols vs. Closed or Proprietary Controls.
[simple_tooltip content=’A Building Automation System (BAS) mainly focuses on automation of indoor conditions like Heating, Ventilation, Lighting, and Air-Conditioning. At the same time, its motive is to provide cost and energy efficient solutions and thereby making the buildings intelligent. In making the building intelligent, the most important thing is the communication between the different devises. Building Automation Protocols are the rules and standards of which communication is possible between different devices. An Open Protocol allows vendors’ equipment to interoperate without the need for proprietary interfaces. The main advantage of using Open Protocols is ease of expanding and the ability to allow secure remote access to the system through any standard web browser.’]Open Protocol[/simple_tooltip] allows customers the freedom to work with multiple controls contractors in supporting their building automation infrastructure. This is opposed to [simple_tooltip content=’A Closed or Proprietary BAS is a stand-alone system where all elements are produced by the same manufacturer and these elements will not be compatible with any other manufacturer’s equipment. The drawback of Closed Protocol systems come in the form of restrictions. By being bound to one manufacturer, you will also be restricted in where you can go for repairs. Additionally, it means that a decision to migrate to another manufacturer will need a complete change of system.’]Closed or Proprietary[/simple_tooltip] building automation systems that require work to be done by the manufactures technicians, which often leads to more costly service. Instead, open protocol systems can be serviced by any experienced contractor, giving customers more flexibility and options. Open protocol systems communicate seamlessly with equipment produced from different manufacturers and can be used with both new and existing equipment.
If you have the option to upgrade your building automation system, focus on an open protocol system, and don’t be afraid to ask questions! If you have questions about this relatively complex topic, you can reach out to me directly. ColonialWebb provides an Open Protocol Distech Controls Product Line that we provide to our customers built on the Niagara framework infrastructure. If you’d like to learn more about ColonialWebb’s BAS Services, Click Here.
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