Introduction to BACnet®The Enabling Infrastructure for Artificial Intelligence Applications (Formerly Introduction to BACnet®)
This course, based on the 2024 version of the BACnet Standard, helps attendees understand the essential elements required to successfully plan for BACnet® and tackle complex issues for achieving interoperability across a broad range of building systems, including HVAC, electrical, plumbing, elevators, fire alarm, security systems, and lighting.
In the first half, students learn the "language" of BACnet: key terms, how to read and interpret a Protocol Implementation Conformance Statement (PICS). The course covers BACnet/IP and BACnet MS/TP as well as new advancements such as BACnet/SC (Secure Connect) and BACnet/WS (Web Services). The integration of artificial intelligence is introduced, showing how AI-driven algorithms can leverage BACnet data for standard and advanced alarms and events. BACnet is the infrastructure that would allow for implementing fault detection, predictive maintenance, and optimization of system performance in an open and interoperable manner. Implementing these strategies is covered in ASHRAE’s SGPC 13 Guideline for Specifying Building Automation Systems.
The second half presents practical case studies on deploying BACnet in various equipment, including boilers, automatic transfer switches, elevators, and medical gas machines. Guidance is provided on collaborating with IT departments for device network integration, BBMD configuration, and device/object naming conventions. The course also addresses how BACnet’s rich data can support AI models for continuous building commissioning and long-term compliance with NetZero as well as the California Title 24 Standby Occupancy strategy for VAV systems.
BACnet is foundational for Smart Buildings—enabling mechanical, electrical, plumbing, solar, and other systems to communicate over a unified network, implement energy and utility strategies, and now, to power AI-driven building management. Real-time BACnet data can be harnessed by AI systems to maximize operational efficiency, optimize carbon reduction, and facilitate a building’s role in decarbonizing the grid and managing a carbon budget. The BACnet Energy Services Interface (ESI) introduced in the 2024 version of the Standard allows for building owners and operators to receive information, such as real time pricing from a utility. This data can be used to implement strategic demand response measures to minimize cost impacts in a manner that still meets the needs of the building occupants.
Recommended Reference
Guideline 13-2024: Specifying Building Automation Systems
Course Instructor
Grant Wichenko, P.Eng., Member ASHRAE
David Fisher, Member ASHRAE
How Can I Register for This Course?
More Information
Live Virtual attendees will receive a .pdf of the presentation, a certificate, a course recording, and a bonus publication upon request. ALI courses are accepted for continuing education credits by various organizations.