Advantages of Building Automation Systems

   Advantages of Building Automation Systems

Building automation systems have become powerful and effective tools and are becoming more and more popular. They help resolve problems quickly, reduce energy use, improve system performance, increase occupant comfort and safety, and help manage maintenance costs. Savings produced by the systems can pay for installation in as little as three to five years. The main advantages of an automated system are discussed below.

         Transparency

Which allow more controllability on the building without need of any new installations, only some intelligent devices are connected with the electromechanical equipments.

         Multi-Functionality

The system can perform many functions at the same time such as: switching, measuring, monitoring, and recording ...etc. without additional cost.

         Flexibility and Extendibility

Changes in programming of device can be allowed and more devices can also be added on the existing system.Wall switches, occupancy sensors, and load controllers have long useful life. However the specific configuration of sensors and loads are likely evolve over time.

Ideally configuration does not need to occur when devices are physically installed. Configuration can occur at any time and be readily changed as needs evolve. A room entry switch or sensor can be reconfigured later to implement functions not envisioned when the sensor was initially installed. 

         Economic Return

A building Automation system may as well be called an energy management system that is because is controls energy consuming equipment in a building to make is operate more efficiently while maintaining a comfortable environment. As a result it could save a lot of wasted energy which in return saves a lot of money.

         Energy Efficient

The automation system represents a parasitic energy load placing great value on maximizing functionality while reducing energy consumption of the automation system itself.

         Open Specifications

Open standards assure healthy competition and compatibility among multiple players reducing risk of obsolete or orphaned equipment.

Open stands encourage niche players to market specialty devices increasing the likelihood special needs can be met with off the shelf equipment.

  

         ZigBee Advantage

New wireless command and control technologies such as ZigBee IEEEE 802.15 are well suited to automation systems. The radios are optimized for reliable short burst low latency traffic. ZigBee radios have very low power consumption making them ideal for battery power wireless sensors. Battery life in years is possible.

Radio based networks dramatically reduce cost, especially in retrofit situations. Using a radio-based system eliminates the functional distinction between fixed location and portable devices. This minimizes development cost and maximizes reusability. The same basic radio and firmware can be used in a fixed location light switch and hand held A/V remote control.