BACnet stands for Building Automation and Control Network. It is a building automation system (BAS) protocol developed to define how devices communicate with one another. It is an open-source standard that allows anyone to manufacture a product capable of integrating into one of these systems. By defining device information structure, methods of communication, and network infrastructure, the BACnet standard enables interoperability between different devices and systems utilized in building automation. You can review the basics of BACnet here, or explore more advanced features of BACnet here.
The interoperability aspect of BACnet IP is what makes it so appealing to system integrators, BAS and facility managers, and controls engineers. Manufacturers typically specialize in certain product types and categories, which means it is difficult, if not impossible, to design and specify an entire automation system with products from only one. Fortunately, a standard protocol allows seamless integration and communication between devices from disparate manufacturers without headaches. With BACnet IP as the backbone of a BAS system, configuration of new devices or entire new systems becomes simplified. This allows for a more flexible and scalable system as well.
Adopting the standard protocol and infrastructure available with BACnet IP means the system is flexible. If a BACnet compatible device in a building automation system has reached the end of its life and needs replacement, one does not have to hunt for an exact replacement or even stick with the same manufacturer. As manufacturers create compatible devices, system integrators can modify and expand their systems with more freedom. Also, BACnet IP systems are much more scalable than MS/TP. BACnet MS/TP only allows for a daisy-chain topology, where BACnet IP can be a star, ring, or daisy-chain topology. By using subnets and wireless routers, a BACnet IP network can span vast areas with almost unlimited numbers of connected devices, and the network speeds offered by IP are far superior to those offered by MS/TP networks.
Another benefit of BACnet IP is the security inherent in IP networks. Since it operates over Ethernet, access can be limited to certain users, firewalls can be set up to secure communications, and VLANs can be created to compartmentalize different sectors of the automation system. BACnet IP also supports authentication and encryption mechanisms to thwart potential threats. Additionally, the entire network can be served and managed through an independent gateway to isolate the BAS from the other building networks that may contain more sensitive information.
In addition to everything discussed above, BACnet IP is an affordable solution for building automation systems. The ubiquity of IP infrastructure means that a BACnet IP network can be deployed in a cost-effective manner. The networks use Ethernet cabling, which is prevalent and inexpensive. Since the protocol is not proprietary, it does not require expensive and limited diagnostic and configuration tools. Oftentimes the devices can be configured, managed, and controlled from a web browser. The return-on-investment period for adding a BACnet IP building automation system, or expanding an existing one, can be short. Especially if the automation is implementing energy saving controls for lighting and HVAC in unoccupied spaces.
The benefits of a BAS using BACnet stem mostly from the protocol's wide acceptance and interoperability. This makes for a system that is flexible, easily scalable, and cost-effective. The use of IP enhances those benefits while also offering a level of security, reliability, and speed not offered with BACnet MS/TP networks. While there are still MS/TP networks around that need supported and enhanced through the development of new products, the market is leaning towards IP networks for their obvious advantages. To that end, Functional Devices is working on developing solutions to meet the changing needs of today's system integrators, BAS and facility managers, and controls engineers.
Functional Devices, Inc., located in the United States of America, has been designing and manufacturing quality electronic devices since 1969. Our mission is to enhance lives in buildings and beyond. We do so by designing and manufacturing reliable, high-quality products for the building automation industry. Our suite of product offerings include RIB relays, current sensors, power controls, power supplies, transformers, lighting controls, and more.
We test 100% of our products, which leads to less than 1 out of every 16,000 products experiencing a failure in the field.
Simply put, we provide users of our various product confidence and peace of mind in every box.