Introduction
Building automation systems (BAS) are networks of digital controls used to monitor and automatically adjust building operations like lighting, HVAC, security, and more. As buildings age, the wiring infrastructure underpinning these systems can become antiquated, presenting challenges for functionality and efficiency. In this article, I'll explore the issues with integrating modern BAS technology into 40+ year old buildings and strategies for optimizing performance.
Assessing Wiring Infrastructure in Older Buildings
Before implementing improvements, it's critical to thoroughly evaluate existing wiring. Here's what I need to consider:
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Age - Wiring over 40 years old is likely insufficient for today's power needs and degraded. Key issues are insulation breakdown and corrosion.
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Type - Older wiring is often unshielded twisted pair copper. This can cause electromagnetic interference with BAS communications. Fiber optics reduce noise.
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Condition - Inspect for cracks, fraying, discoloration. Damaged lines cause power fluctuations and data loss. Proper maintenance is essential.
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Capacity - Older standards provide lower amps/volts. Upgrades may be needed to support modern high-draw devices and handle increased loads.
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Compatibility - New BAS hardware may not interface properly with outdated wiring. Incompatibility can lead to systems errors or failure.
Thorough assessment determines what replacement or retrofitting is required before BAS improvements can be implemented.
Challenges of Integrating Modern BAS with Legacy Infrastructure
Attempting to overlay a modern BAS on infrastructure from a bygone era can cause various functionality and performance issues:
Power Supply
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Undervoltage - If older wiring can't provide adequate, stable voltage, BAS components may operate erratically or not at all.
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Power surges - Surges from outdated lines can damage sensitive controls and electronics.
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Interference - Unshielded legacy wiring emits electromagnetic interference that disrupts communication between BAS devices.
Data Transmission
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Slow speeds - Older standards like RS485 transmit data too slowly for high-bandwidth BAS needs.
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Latency - Latency caused by inferior wiring leads to lag between sensor inputs and control signals.
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Packet loss - Degraded lines result in lost packets, interrupting BAS data flows.
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Incompatibility - New IP-based BAS may not interface with analog systems in older buildings.
The bottom line is that dated infrastructure hampers a modern BAS from performing optimally. Upgrades are required.
Strategies for Optimizing BAS Performance
Bringing building operations up to current standards requires an infrastructure overhaul:
Replace Wiring
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Swap outdated low-capacity wiring with new high-speed CAT6+ Ethernet. Provides noise resistance and fast reliable data transfer.
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Install shielded wiring to prevent electromagnetic interference on BAS communications.
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Use fiber optics for immunity from electrical noise, safely separating high voltage and data.
Provide Clean Power
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Upgrade electrical to meet modern voltage/amperage capacity needs.
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Install power conditioning like isolation transformers and UPS for clean, stable supply.
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Add surge protection to defend controls from line spikes and fluctuations.
Ensure System Compatibility
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Retrofit systems allowing analog devices to integrate on modern IP networks.
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Replace analog sensors and controls with new IP-enabled versions.
With the right improvements, even 40+ year old buildings can have high-performing intelligent BAS. The key is revamping infrastructures to support it.
Real World Examples
Upgrading aging systems can yield dramatic BAS improvements, as these case studies show:
Empire State Building Retrofit
The Empire State Building's 6,500 windows were manually opened and closed using century-old controls. After a $550 million retrofit, they are now automatically adjusted by the BAS using outdoor and indoor temperature sensors to increase comfort and energy efficiency."Power use for cooling is down 38%."
Rockefeller Center Upgrade
Rockefeller Center upgraded its "outdated analog controls" for over 1,200 HVAC units to a new BAS with digital automation and analytics. The result: "24% reduction in electricity usage".
Conclusion
While integrating modern BAS technology into 40+ year old buildings is challenging, with comprehensive infrastructure upgrades to wiring and power supply it can be achieved. The reward is far more intelligent, efficient and responsive building automation. Assessing existing infrastructure, replacing outdated elements, ensuring compatibility, and protecting equipment are key steps to unlocking the full benefits of BAS in aged buildings.