BAS/BMS Q&A

Are you new to smart building technology and want to learn more? Read below to learn more.

What is a BAS (Building Automation System) or BMS (Building Management System)?

BAS and BMS are interchangeable terms.

BAS is a computer-based centralized system that monitors and controls a building’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems (HVAC).

What is an Energy Management System (EMS)?

EMS is a system of computer-based tools used by operators of an electric utility grid. The term started being used in building control when a system monitored a building’s electrical demand and performed energy reduction functions.

How does a BAS/BMS work?

A BAS/BMS consists of distributed computer-based controllers and modules with “Input Points” to monitor temperatures, pressures, and the status of open or closed contacts.

BAS/BMS’s also have “Output Points” to either vary (modulate) a signal to devices such as valves, variable speed drives, and dampers or make/ break binary contacts to turn something on or off.

They have “Variables” such as setpoints, alarm points, and timers that programs use to control the HVAC equipment.

What’s the difference between a BAS and an EMS?

Today almost every BAS/BMS can also function as a building’s EMS by just adding a few more Input points and Output points.

Input points are required to monitor the building utility usage (gas and electric).

The BAS/BMS requires the output points to reduce their use by turning off non-critical equipment or changing setpoints to reduce the load of operating equipment.

Want to learn more?

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References:

BAS (Building Automation System)