Intelligent Power Today Magazine

News and Trends

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 initial fixture cost misses a crucial aspect of responsible lighting management – the long-term perspective.

Visit Our Building Automation Study Course

Beyond the Sticker Price: Unveiling the True Cost of Light

Modern lighting solutions promise a...

Buyer's Guide

News & 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...

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...

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...

Building Automation Training

Legacy Systems: Strategies for Integrating Outdated HVAC Equipment into Modern BAS

Building automation offers powerful tools for streamlining HVAC operations, optimizing efficiency, and improving comfort. However, a significant challenge arises when dealing with legacy systems - older HVAC equipment from various generations that might lack the native compatibility necessary for seamless integration. Confronting this hurdle effectively is key to maximizing the benefits of automation in established buildings.

Understanding the Compatibility Challenge

Proprietary Protocols: Historically, many HVAC manufacturers used closed communication protocols, making their systems reluctant to "talk" to devices or software from other vendors.

Varying Lifecycles: Different components within an HVAC system (chillers, boilers, air handling units, etc.) may have been installed or replaced at different intervals, leading to a mix-and-match environment with no unifying communication standard.

Outdated Control Systems: Older equipment might still rely on basic pneumatic or analog controls, creating a stark contrast with modern digital building automation platforms.
Integration Strategies

The good news is that outdated systems...

Communications

Fortressing the Connected Building: Securing BAS in a Digital Age

Building Automation Systems (BAS) offer a compelling proposition for building management, promising enhanced efficiency, streamlined operations, and improved occupant comfort. However, the growing reliance on interconnected systems introduces cybersecurity vulnerabilities that threaten building...

Energy

Navigating the Cost-Benefit Equation for BAS in Energy Management

Building Automation Systems (BAS) offer a powerful tool for optimizing energy consumption in buildings. While the potential for cost savings through improved energy efficiency is significant, the initial investment required for BAS implementation can be a hurdle for building owners and facility...

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...