Consulting-Specifying Engineer - October 2008 - (Page 38)

8 6 Capitalize on advance technologies Wireless products based on IEEE-802.11b (WiFi radio frequency communications) are gaining acceptance as applications are being developed for its use. Current trends in the design of BAS are to incorporate the use of common communication software typically used in the IT world, such as XML or simple network management protocol. These software communication packages help manage BAS network alarms. The use of IT-related communication software allows for nontraditional systems to be interfaced and to share facility IT enterprise standard database applications such as Structured Query Language, widely used for querying and modifying data on a network enterprise level. Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology has created a host of new products for “smart devices” that have IP network connectivity, but require low-voltage power for operation. Applications include wireless closed-circuit TV cameras, security access control, lighting control, and control and monitoring of HVAC equipment. The number of products that use PoE connectivity at the device level is growing. This application reduces the need to install lowvoltage wiring traditionally needed for many of these systems, reducing overall installation costs by approximately 80%. IEEE currently is defining a higher powered PoE standard, which would allow for about 30 to 50 W to be delivered to smart devices. The ability to provide more power to smart devices for PoE will invoke even greater interoperability and system integration applications in the near future. Roles and responsibilities A roles and responsibilities chart helps identify all parties and individual roles on any integration project. This simple chart reduces misinterpretations by identifying all parties that will provide hardware and software, install network equipment and cabling, perform system integration design, perform system integrated testing and commissioning, and complete training and periodic maintenance for system adds or deletions. The chart should identify who will perform testing to ensure that all systems slated for integration are functioning as intended. Final tip Opportunities for system integration and interoperability can be designed into new buildings or retrofit into older buildings, taking into account the age of existing equipment and calculating the cost-benefit ratio. In considering system integration, always think in terms of installing a system with a long life. The network communication infrastructure selected should have the capability to take advantage of cutting-edge technology, even if a facility’s current equipment is less advanced. Since many facilities must remain alert to productivity and operating costs, each BAS investment must have value for the future. A design template that provides for the newest technology using open protocol communications will permit various systems to be integrated, while helping to lower overall operating costs. Such a design allows for interaction among the equipment of multiple manufacturers and permits dynamic monitoring of all critical functions at several different locations internally and externally from a facility, ensuring that systems will operate as efficiently as possible while alerting operations staff to problems as soon as they occur. Petty is vice president and group manager in the New York City office of Syska Hennessy Group. His experience includes more than 30 years in BAS, which covers project management, design, and engineering of communication systems, security systems, fire/life safety, environmental control, and energy management systems. 7 38 Consulting-Specifying Engineer • OCTOBER 2008

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Consulting-Specifying Engineer - October 2008 Contents Viewpoint Letters News M/E Roundtable Cities Under One Roof Eight Design Tips for Integration Is 'Green' Really New? Down the Drain Product of the Year Awards Codes & Standards Case Study New Products Equipment Lifecycles Advertiser Index Green Space

Consulting-Specifying Engineer - October 2008

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