HVAC, security, and fire alarms are just a few of the many mechanical systems you’ll find in any given building. Traditionally, they were all connected via the BACnet MS/TP protocol, a cumbersome system with many security and reliability issues.
The result was always the same—an inefficient building and a very stressed-out facility manager. That all changed with the recent introduction of BACnet IP Controllers. They offer a more efficient way to manage building mechanical systems using a versatile web-based interface.
Read on to learn more about IP Controllers and the six benefits they’ll provide your building.
What are IP Controllers?
IP controllers use a web-based interface to control an electronic device through a building’s network (or Conexus-installed network) for faster and more efficient communication. They are accessed remotely from a mobile device or computer.
Different types include:
- Embedded IP access: Stores important data on the control panel, which is directly connected with the browser.
- Hosted IP access: The most sophisticated system operates thousands of websites through a highly secured data center.
IP Controllers monitor and regulate the performance of various systems within the building, such as:
- Mechanical
- Electrical
- Plumbing
- HVAC
- Fire alarms
- Security
- Elevators
- Lighting
- Surveillance
IP controllers integrate with your existing system, including your local area network (LAN). BACnet IP is faster, more configurable, and allows for many connected devices than MS/TP. It also avoids common MS/TP wiring issues.
Benefits of IP Controllers over BACnet MS/TP
IP controllers have replaced BACnet MS/TP controllers as the latest in control system communication architecture. In addition to being faster and more secure than BACnet MS/TP, BACnet IP Controllers offer the following benefits:
Increased bandwidth/communication speed
IP controllers are efficient, convenient, and offer speeds of up to 1,000x faster than MS/TP.
More reliable communications over BACnet MS/TP
There is a huge difference between IP and traditional control, including:
- More reliable, stable communication (no stripped wires or incorrect termination of the communication wire when using MSTP or LON protocol)
- Time tested design used for all computers
- No bugs to troubleshoot
Reduced technician commissioning/maintenance labor
With traditional systems, the smallest cut wire or controller failure could create an entire system failure. IP controller networks allow for a variety of wiring topologies, promoting redundancy and reducing network failure.
- Faster downloads and troubleshooting time
- IP networks can be home-run as well as daisy-chained
More memory and faster processors
Today’s building systems generate and consume lots of data—which requires powerful processors to manage it all. In the not-too-distant past, more complex processes required connections to cloud applications. Many of today’s IP controllers can do some of those complex processes locally.
- Will allow for additional code to be run at the controller
- Analytics capabilities
- Reduced operational costs due to automated energy conservation features
Local storage of schedules, alarms, and history
IP access control systems can maintain and store a huge amount of data.
Standard tools used to diagnose, secure, and optimize the network
There is no special equipment required to troubleshoot IP controllers.
Learn More About BACnet IP vs. BACnet MS/TP
BACnet IP controllers are a game-changer over the traditional BACnet MS/TP system. Faster communication, easier installation, and reduced costs are just a few of the many benefits you’ll get from making the switch.
If you’re having trouble with your current BACnet MS/TP system or would like to learn more about the many benefits that IP Controllers can provide your building, click below.