In our ever-evolving world, citizens across the globe are on a constant lookout for the most efficient and effective ways to manage their real estate properties. And on this journey towards efficiency, they come across terms like Building Management Systems (BMS) and Building Automation Systems (BAS) quite frequently. Because these terms are used synonymously, people often don't realise that these two systems have some fundamental differences.
If you think of asking the Google Guru, and holy moly, that's a ton of information. And you know what, that's true because building management is one complex topic that comes with numerous tech-heavy terms and concepts. So read along to understand these terms and their differences in this simplified article!
Building Management Systems
BMS, a computer-based system, is installed in building complexes to monitor and control electrical and mechanical plants, like the HVAC, power systems, lighting, fire, and other security systems. Well-established and effective BMS implements the core management tool to ensure efficient monitoring and management of occupant comfort and energy expenses. It provides the optimal working environment while minimising costs. Efficient BMS utilisation permits optimal performance by prolonging systems' operational life. And this is managed by reducing loads and operating hours, further reducing the maintenance and capital costs, and embedded energy consumption.
Additionally, the Building Management Systems also acts as a fundamental tool for recognising energy intensity improvement possibilities, for instance, refining the size and number of lighting time blocks and enabling identification of faults, energy-saving upgrades, and maintenance planning.
Building Automation System
In the most uncomplicated terms, a Building Automation System is a system that automates many of the tasks required to run systems like HVAC. Now you may ask how exactly it is different from BMS! While BMS only functions as the controlling system, you can achieve a lot more from BAS. So you can say that the Building Automation System is nothing but an evolved version of BMS.
BAS utilises a control system (like BMS) to automate the controlling of the different building systems (primarily HVAC). BAS presents a user interface that enables you to view the system status, adjust the control settings, and detect any potential issues associated with the building system performance.
Being more advanced, BAS has four layers, namely, server layer, supervisory layer, field controller layers, and the input/output layer, each built upon the lower layer to give you more functionality and automation.
Advantages of Building Systems
Though these systems have fundamental differences, they come with a similar bunch of advantages like:
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Life Safety
This is the ultimate purpose of any building system. Any building system is implemented and used in the first place to ensure that the health and well-being of building occupants are protected.
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Uptime
The amount of time for which your system controlled by BAS/BMS is up and running is called uptime. These systems ensure that you have little or no unplanned downtime and the entire building functions efficiently.
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Energy Savings
These systems allow you to maintain and visualise your building systems so that you can manage energy savings.
The world around us is steadily changing with each passing day, and it is of utmost significance that you stay up-to-date with the emerging technologies. Ideally, homeowners should have sufficient information about the nuances and complications of smart technology, network connectivity, automation, and building management to help them live a smooth and technologically advanced life. Global brands like #SchneiderElectric have explored the broad field of building management and automation systems, ensuring your #LifeIsOn.
