- Author
- Bushby, S. T. | Newman, H. M.
- Title
- Standardizing EMCS Communication Protocols.
- Coporate
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD
- Journal
- ASHRAE Journal, Vol. 31, No. 1, 33-35, January 1989
- Keywords
- communication protocol | communication networks | computers | energy management | control systems
- Identifiers
- energy management and control systems (EMCSs)
- Abstract
- The use of distributed, microprocessor-based, energy management and control systems (EMCSs) is now a fact of life in the building control industry. Microprocessor-based components are available from many manufacturers and are being installed in ever-increasing numbers. Almost all commercially available EMCSs use proprietary techniques to exchange information among the distributed devices making up the control system. As a result, in most cases, it is not possible to mix products made by different vendors and expect them to work as an integrated system (Newman 1983). Building owners and operators are unhappy with this situation because it forces them to return to the same vendor whenever additions or changes need to be make to their EMCS. Some potential customers, including the U. S. military, have decided to delay purchasing new EMCSs until standards are in place to protect their investment.