BACnet Implementation - Avoid Wasting Money, Hire an Expert Instead
Importance of Network Protocols
Modern lighting systems, HVAC units, boilers, chillers, security systems etc. are no longer stand-alone devices. Buyers of these products expect these devices to work together as part of a network that can be monitored and controlled together. In order to do that, it is vital that equipment manufacturers use a standard network protocol (such as BACnet) to ensure that those devices can not only talk with each other, but also work with other manufacturer's devices.
In a given building automation system (BAS), there can be hundreds or thousands of devices trying to work together seamlessly. Through the use of network protocols and building controls, these devices can communicate with one another and be managed and monitored in a controlled environment. This is why implementing a network protocol into a device is so important to a product's longevity and competitive advantage.
Thinking about Doing BACnet Implementation Alone? Beware of the Costs!
While today's equipment manufacturers focus on creating exceptional products, they are not experts in protocol development. Many equipment manufactuers will begin hiring protocol engineers and other professionals to do the integration for them, without realizing the full cost and time it will take for completition. Going this route, BACnet development and integration for an equipment manufacturer can take up to 3 years and cost over $400,000. That is a lot of time and money!
Even when the development and integration is completed, the protocol engineers will need to remain onboard with the company. They will be needed to continually support the BACnet implementation for the life of the product. This means the company will constantly spend money to ensure the engineers are there to make updates and changes to the BACnet protocol and keep the product up-to-date.
Another issue to consider is whether or not the lead protocol engineer fully interpreted and implemented BACnet properly. There is a chance that an engineer could have misinterpreted how certain fuctions should be implemented, which could create further problems. Interoperability issues may arise and can create a massive headache during a product release.
Do I Have Other Options?
Yes! While there may be many different solutions to your BACnet Implemenation problem, one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to ensure proper BACnet communcation between devices is to use a gateway. A gateway that is BTL tested and certified ensures that a device can be integrated without any interoperability issues. Also, this is a much less risky approach that can be accomplished in mere months instead of years! With a gateway, you can avoid hiring new protocol engineers, avoid exorbitant and unnecessary expenses, and avoid going through the BTL Certification process.
BACnet Implementation Solutions by Chipkin:
- Available in single or dual RS-485 ports
- Offers a complete BACnet internetworking solution for BACnet/IP, BACnet Ethernet, and BACnet MS/TP networks.
- BTL Certified
BACnet FieldServer QuickServer Gateway
- Fully Configurable, Cost-Effective
- BTL Certified
- From 250 Points, up to 5,000 Points
- High-Performance Speed
BACnet to Other - Custom Developed Driver
- Connect BACnet to over 200+ Other Protocols
- If we don't have a driver available, we can custom-build one!
- BACnet MS/TP, BACnet IP
