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

2024 CE Code Training - Better Understanding of the Rules

CE Code training is intended to do a lot more than instruct about what changes have taken place since the last time Canada issued a national electrical code. We are producing a series of courses across Canada by one of Canada’s leading experts on the 2024 Edition of Canada’s Electrical...

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...

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...

Building Automation Training

Overcoming the 'Automation Paradox' in Smart Lighting Systems

Building Automation Systems (BAS) offer significant advantages for lighting control within smart buildings. These systems can optimize energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and potentially enhance occupant comfort through features like automated dimming and occupancy sensing. However, there's a potential pitfall: overly complex automation can backfire, leading to user frustration and dissatisfaction. This phenomenon is sometimes referred to as the 'automation paradox'.

Building automation, particularly in lighting systems, aims to enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and convenience. However, the 'Automation Paradox' emerges when the increased complexity of these systems paradoxically makes them harder to use, leading to user frustration. This phenomenon underscores the importance of balancing sophisticated automation with user control and satisfaction in smart lighting systems.

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The Challenge of Complexity in Automated Lighting

Automated lighting systems integrate sensors, timers, and algorithms to control the lighting based on occupancy, daylight availability, and user preferences. While...

Communications

Stretching the Reach: BAS and Remote Building Management

In today's fast-paced world, building managers are often tasked with overseeing multiple properties spread across vast distances. Building Automation Systems (BAS) offer a solution by enabling remote monitoring and control of building systems. This allows for centralized management, improved...

Energy

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,...

HVAC

How Artificial Intelligence is Reshaping HVAC Efficiency

Traditionally, HVAC control within building automation systems has relied on rule-based systems and human programmed schedules. These systems, while effective, leave significant room for further optimization. The emergence of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) offers...