Intelligent Power Today Magazine

News and Trends

Introducing Intelligent Power Today

Welcome to Intelligent Power Today Magazine, our publication that explores and explains the who, what, where, when, why and how of intelligent electrical devices, a collection of complex mechanical devices and sophisticated control systems used in industrial, commercial, and institutional facilities—also known as intelligent buildings.

According to the Institute for Building Efficiency, intelligent buildings use smart technologies to improve system functionality, control operating costs, and to keep building occupants safe, secure, comfortable, and, of...

Buyer's Guide

News & Trends

Featured

Advanced protection against electromagnetic exposures and electric arc

HAZARDS AROUND While working live in the energized grid, presence of voltage around the workers requires special attention. However, live-line (live working) techniques are widely applied for decades, several accidents in the past prove that the level of safety must be improved to minimize...

State of Industry

Illuminating Decisions: EPRI Lights the Way for Modern Lighting Adoption

Facility managers and operators understand the critical role lighting plays in their daily operations. Accounting for roughly 30% of a commercial building's energy load, lighting significantly impacts energy consumption and associated maintenance costs. However, focusing solely on the...

Counterfeiting Kills

Each year, the counterfeiting of well-known brands and products continues to rise, creating an even more threatening problem. Such well-known counterfeited brands, including consumer safety and critical electrical products, are estimated to be five to seven percent of world trade. The International...

Building Automation Training

Protecting HVAC Systems within a Building Automation Network

In modern buildings, the HVAC system is rarely an isolated entity. Building automation systems (BAS) integrate HVAC components with an array of sensors, controllers, and a central management platform — all connected through networks. This interconnectivity provides significant benefits in terms of optimization and control but also introduces crucial cybersecurity vulnerabilities demanding careful consideration.

HVAC Systems as Targets

While it might not be the primary objective of attackers, HVAC systems within a BAS network present attractive targets for several reasons:

Disruption of Operations: By manipulating HVAC settings, attackers can cause discomfort, potentially force a facility to shut down, or inflict damage to temperature-sensitive equipment.

Entry Point to the Network: Compromised HVAC components can serve as a beachhead to access other, more sensitive parts of a building's network.

Resource Drain (Botnets): Insufficiently secured HVAC devices can be hijacked and assimilated into botnets used for carrying out larger-scale attacks.

Common Vulnerabilities in...

Communications

Building a Breath of Fresh Air: BAS and Indoor Air Quality

Modern buildings prioritize energy efficiency and aesthetics, but sometimes at the expense of indoor air quality (IAQ). Poor IAQ can lead to respiratory problems, allergies, and decreased occupant comfort and productivity. Fortunately, Building Automation Systems (BAS) offer a powerful solution,...

Energy

Optimizing Energy Consumption for a Sustainable Future

In today's world, where energy costs are on the rise and environmental concerns are paramount, building automation systems (BAS) are emerging as a powerful tool for achieving significant energy savings and fostering a more sustainable future. These intelligent systems act as the central...

HVAC

Balancing Investment vs. Savings in BAS for HVAC Systems

Building automation systems (BAS) offer the tantalizing promise of streamlined HVAC operations, increased energy efficiency, and enhanced occupant comfort. However, the upfront investment involved can lead to hesitation among building owners and facility managers. Determining whether the long-term...