PDS428 - Building Automation Systems
Course Overview
Building Automation Systems (BAS) can often be a black box when it comes to engineering designs and specifications. Attend this course and learn the “inside secrets” of the BAS/controls industry, without the industry bias. The curriculum is designed to provide a nontraditional course into “How Buildings Work” in lieu of a traditional “controls” class. Fundamentals of controls will be discussed as an introduction. Sequences of operation will be presented for various pieces of equipment, along with recommendations on when to use them. Specifications and potential improvements for open and closed bid situations will be introduced. Common pitfalls in controls design and how to avoid them will be shown. Lastly, the future of building automation systems will be explored.
- Fundamentals of building automation systems, including system architecture, sensors types and applications, controller hardware, software and network communications.
- Sequences of Operation for various HVAC equipment, including VAVs, AHUs, and CHW/HW plants. Energy efficiency recommendations for sequences will be included. ASHRAE standard sequences will also be presented.
- Specifications and improvements for different markets (open vs closed bid).
- Common pitfalls in building automation systems and how to avoid them, including case studies of various “control problems,” PIC valves, TAB and control contractor miscommunications, and others.
- The future of building automation systems: where we are, where we are headed and how we get there.
- How to intelligently design and specify building automation systems.
- How to create good sequences of operations.
- How to catch shortcuts on control submittals during the review process.
- How to better inspect and punchlist BAS construction and improve commissioning efforts.
- How to avoid and anticipate control problems before they happen.
Advisory Board
Course curriculum is developed in consultation with our Professional Development Advisory Board of subject matter experts, faculty, and industry practitioners.
Course Delivery
Online
Course Materials
All course materials will be provided electronically.
Policy Information
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