This data communications protocol is an agreed-upon set of rules for creating interoperable (open) networks of building systems. The protocol encompasses all building systems from HVAC and building automation to lighting, security, fire and life safety, etc.
It was developed by the American Society of Heating, Refrigerating, and Air-conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE; www.ashrae.org) but has become an American national standard, a European standard, a national standard in more than 30 countries, and an ISO global standard (ISO-16484-5). It defines the messages that various devices exchange and how those messages are delivered.
As an “open standard,” BACnet enables facility professionals to future-proof their buildings by installing a system that allows for multiple product providers or multiple service providers.
In addition, the standard itself adapts to emerging initiatives to ensure that both present and future needs are met in terms of building system integration.
Finally, by becoming such a widely accepted choice and standard, you’ll never be caught on the wrong side of the technology wars. BACnet has become the definitive, worldwide standard for building system communications.
The BACnet “community” is comprised of members of ASHRAE, user interests groups, product manufacturers, system integrators, controls contractors, & building owners.
Within ASHRAE, the Standing Standard Project Committee, SSPC 135, is responsible for continued development of the standard through 7 working groups. The official BACnet (standard) web site is www.bacnet.org.
BACnet interest groups are organized in North America, Australia-Asia, Europe , Finland, Sweden, Russia, and the Middle East.
In addition, an industry trade organization, known as BACnet International (www.bacnetinternational.org), encourages the successful use of BACnet in building automation and control systems through interoperability testing, educational programs, and promotional activities. BACnet International complements the work of other BACnet-related groups whose charters limit their commercial activities.
BACnet International members include companies involved in the design, manufacturing, installation, commissioning, and maintenance of control equipment that uses BACnet for communication, as well as other interested persons.
BACnet International consists of dozens of renowned providers of building automation and control systems who support the protocol through product development.
BTL is the BACnet Testing Laboratory--an independent arm of the BACnet International. It was created to provide product testing and a listing program for products that have BACnet capability.
While no guarantee of interoperability is provided, the BTL does determine if products comply with the comprehensive BACnet standard. This standard was developed with interoperability in mind.
Products which survive the rigors of BTL testing become “listed.” Manufacturers can use the BTL logo only for listed products.
KMC Controls is a corporate member of the BACnet International, an active member of the BACnet community, and a strong proponent of BTL testing.
We design our products to the evolving BACnet standard. We participate, each year, in BACnet-sponsored interoperability workshops (aka Plugfests). We lend technical assistance to the BACnet (ASHRAE) committee. We volunteer within BACnet International. We have our products tested and listed by BTL.
You might say that we’re “in touch” with BACnet.
We’ve designed our line of products to meet the scalable needs in relation to control and automation challenges. From standalone applications to installation in small buildings to large facilities, we’ve got your BACnet solution. See our Scalable Solutions brochure for graphical depictions of these approaches: (SB-044).
And, to stay up to date on the BACnet community and news, surf over to
www.bacnetinternational.org.
BACnet Advanced Application Controllers (B-AAC)
BACnet Building Controllers and Routers
BACnet Building Automation Software and Software Tools (B-OWS)
Additional External BACnet Resources