Building automation system (BAS)

Building automation system (BAS) – centralized, interlinked networks of hardware and software which monitor and control the energy environment of commercial, industrial and institutional facilities. The BAS is the hub for all building systems and it is automated to ensure optimal performance and highest levels of safety and comfort for all tenants.

Related terms:

Controls: a broad term appropriate for describing discrete devices that control certain pieces of equipment or processes
Direct Digital Control (DDC): specific to the communication method used in hardware and software
Energy Management System (EMS): general understood as identical to “buidling automation system” but may speficically relate to energy metering/monitoring within the building
Smart (Intelligent) Building: a data driven BAS

What is controlled:

All mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems including HVAC as well as:
chillers
boilers
air handling units (AHUs)
roof-top units (RTUs)
fan coil units (FCUs)
heat pump units (HPUs)
variable air volume boxes (VAVs)
lighting
power
security
closed circuit video (CCTV)
card and keypad access
fire alarms
elevators/escalators
plumbing and water

What does a building automation system look like?

While people working in the buildings will likely never come in contact with the BAS, energy managers and systems integrators are keenly aware of their structure. With data analytics and real-time monitoring capabilities, BAS systems are linked through a web-enabled computer. For Tridium products, the management of the system lies in the JACE controller. The architecture is layed out like this: