Echelon Corp. has released findings from an online survey that shed light on plans for building automation systems of the future. Survey results indicate that a majority of planners intend to integrate HVAC, lighting, and security systems onto a common platform.

The automation of various building systems — including HVAC — promises to improve energy efficiency, as well as enhance the comfort and health of occupants. Building automation systems have reached a tipping point, says Navigant Research, where embedded computing and digital communications are driving accelerating adoption.

Building automation systems rely on networks of sensors, switches, and other devices, along with software tools, to provide a real-time view of the current state of a building. The market for networked building controls is expanding as building owners and operators realize the cost savings offered by automated, real-time control.

The QuickServer KNX Gateway enables data access from KNX networks to devices and networks utilizing open and proprietary protocols such as BACnet, Modbus, LonWorks, Metasys N2 by Johnson Controls Intl., Ethernet/IP, DNP3, SNMP, and more. 

The NEWS was very busy at the AHR Expo in New York City, visiting as many booths as possible in search of new products. Here is a comprehensive list of all the commercial controls products we found on the show floor.

The latest release of the i-Vu^® Web-based BACnet^® building automation system (BAS) is available. 

We asked the contractors on our editorial advisory board to share which products they believe truly deserve to be called smart — and why.