Building owners are under pressure to modernize aging facilities, but many hesitate when they learn what a traditional hard-wired upgrade entails: opening walls, running conduit, navigating asbestos or lead surfaces, and paying for weeks of labor. For contractors and engineers, this often means projects are stalled by budget constraints, not technical capability.
Wireless Makes Retrofit Easy
Wireless Building Automation Systems (BAS) solutions change that equation. Functional Devices’ RIB® wireless controls and EnOcean-powered devices give contractors and engineers a fast, flexible way to upgrade BAS without tearing into walls. With wireless technology, a building can add occupancy-based control, lighting automation, HVAC improvements, and energy optimization at a fraction of the cost of rewiring.
This practical, retrofit-friendly approach directly addresses the biggest pain points faced by controls engineers, project managers, and electrical contractors, helping them deliver more profitable, more efficient, and more schedule-friendly projects.
What Are Wireless BAS Solutions?
Wireless Building Automation System (BAS) solutions use radio-frequency communication—such as EnOcean’s energy-harvesting wireless protocol—to allow sensors, relays, and switches to communicate without low-voltage wiring. Instead of running cable through concrete, cinder block, brick, or asbestos-containing material, contractors simply mount the device and link it to the control system.
Functional Devices offers a full selection of wireless relays, sensors, and controllers designed specifically for BAS upgrades and retrofits. These devices are ideal for buildings where cutting walls is costly, disruptive, or prohibited—making them perfect solutions for schools, hospitals, and large office environments.
Wireless BAS Components for Modernizing Legacy Buildings
Functional Devices’ wireless lineup includes:
- Wireless RIB® Relays: Enable control of HVAC equipment, lighting, fans, pumps, motors, and more—without pulling control wires
- EnOcean-Enabled Inputs & Outputs: Self-powered wireless devices that harvest energy from motion, light, or temperature changes
- Wireless Sensors & Switches: Occupancy sensors, door sensors, and manual switches that send control signals instantly
Together, these devices give engineers a modular toolkit to solve retrofit challenges: tight spaces, inaccessible wiring paths, limited documentation on old buildings, or the need to install controls in areas that cannot be disturbed.
How Wireless BAS Technology Simplifies Building Upgrades
For installers, the biggest obstacle in retrofit work is labor time and uncertainty. Old buildings rarely match the drawings. Conduit is hidden. Ceilings contain surprises. Wireless solutions eliminate those unknowns. An installer can complete more work in less time by avoiding opening up surfaces that could slow a project or create liability.
For project managers, wireless devices streamline schedules. They reduce the need for coordination with carpenters, abatement teams, or after-hours access requests. A project that once required multiple trades can now be completed by one technician in a single visit. Less risk. Fewer change orders. Lower install costs.
For engineers and designers, wireless BAS devices offer a flexible path for integration. The RIB® wireless lineup works with existing wired controls, allowing hybrid systems to keep what’s working and upgrade only what’s needed.
Real-World Retrofit Scenarios: Schools, Offices & Hospitals
K-12 & Higher-Ed Schools
Many schools were built long before modern BAS wiring standards. Running new cable often requires asbestos inspections or weekend shutdowns. Wireless relays and sensors allow you to add occupancy-based HVAC control to classrooms or to automate gym lighting without disturbing walls or ceiling tiles.
The result: improved comfort, measurable energy savings, and minimal downtime for teachers or students.
Corporate & Government Offices
Office tenants expect responsive climate control, daylight harvesting, and adaptable conference rooms—but older wiring makes that difficult. Wireless devices allow seamless upgrades during off-hours, enabling faster tenant improvements and more competitive lease offerings.
Functional Devices’ wireless RIB® relays can control VAV boxes, ventilation fans, or lighting panels without tearing into finished drywall.
Hospitals & Medical Facilities
Hospitals face strict infection-control requirements, making any wall penetration expensive. Wireless BAS upgrades remove the need for dust containment, negative-pressure setups, or clinical area shutdowns.
Facilities teams can add door sensors, OR lighting controls, or wireless occupancy sensors with minimal disruption—improving patient experience and operational efficiency.
Eliminate Rewiring Costs—and Win More Retrofit Bids
Rewiring is often the most expensive part of a BAS upgrade. Wireless BAS solutions give contractors the ability to:
- Avoid invasive wall opening
- Reduce labor hours
- Cut material costs
- Bypass asbestos or lead abatement procedures
- Complete projects during normal business hours
For retrofit-heavy customers, this means better margins, more predictable bids, and fewer installation risks.
Integrating Wireless BAS Devices with Existing Systems
Functional Devices’ wireless solutions integrate easily with most major BAS platforms. This gives engineers the freedom to modernize systems incrementally:
- Add wireless relays to expand control points
- Introduce wireless sensors to extend system visibility
- Pair wireless switches with existing lighting panels
- Use EnOcean gateways to connect wireless devices to existing networks
This flexibility helps teams plan multiphase upgrades and stretch budget dollars further.
Why Engineers and Contractors Trust Functional Devices
Functional Devices has been a BAS industry leader for decades, known for reliability, support, and innovation. The company’s RIB® brand is recognized by contractors, integrators, engineers, and facility teams alike.
Professionals appreciate:
- Durable, UL-listed products
- Easy installation and configuration
- Predictable wireless performance
- Clear documentation
- U.S.-based customer service
- Products specifically designed for retrofit environments
Functional Devices is a trusted choice for modernizing legacy buildings with minimal disruption.
FAQs
What is a wireless BAS system?
A Building Automation System that uses wireless communication for sensors, relays, and controls.
Can wireless BAS devices integrate with existing wired systems?
Yes. RIB® wireless products can extend or complement existing systems.
Do RIB® wireless products work in retrofit applications?
Absolutely. They are specifically designed for retrofit challenges.
Where can I buy RIB® wireless BAS solutions?
Functional Devices works through a nationwide network of distributors.
Plan Your Next BAS Upgrade with Wireless Technology from Functional Devices
If you’re planning an upgrade in a school, office building, or hospital and the wiring is slowing you down, wireless BAS solutions from Functional Devices offer a fast, cost-effective path forward. Faster installs. Lower project costs. Fewer disruptions. And a smoother experience for engineers, contractors, and building stakeholders alike.
Find a Local Distributor who can help you choose the right wireless Functional Devices’ BAS products for your next project.