Design Criteria
The Development of the BAS System
Building Energy Controls Designed for Real-World Use
At Enertec-BAS Corporation, the development of the BAS system was guided by a clear vision to deliver a versatile, user-friendly, and cost-effective building automation solution. Since our first Energy Zone installation in 1988, these design principles have allowed customers—from large commercial buildings to complex industrial environments—to benefit from simpler control, lower costs, and greater operational independence.
Core Design Criteria Behind BAS System Development
From the earliest stages, we committed to five primary design criteria that continue to define the BAS system’s unique value in the marketplace:
Minimal Hardware, Maximum Flexibility
We engineered a single-model controller adaptable to all control applications—whether managing chillers, boilers, VAV zone dampers, heat pumps, lighting control panels, or auxiliary devices.
This means building managers can leverage one controller platform across diverse HVAC and energy equipment, simplifying inventory, reducing hardware costs, and facilitating easier maintenance. For example, a facility upgrading its lighting systems can integrate controls without replacing existing HVAC controllers.
Open-Standard Hardware for Seamless Integration
Our system hardware conforms to open standards, using off-the-shelf PCs to manage the Energy Management Control System (EMCS) network and provide the user interface. Unlike proprietary, expensive network controllers, BAS uses standard communication protocols like RS-485 and industry-proven analog signals (4-20 mA or 0-10 VDC). This approach makes it easier and more affordable for facilities to upgrade or customize their systems without vendor lock-in.
Harnessing the Power of Microsoft Windows
BAS was among the first systems designed to operate fully within the Microsoft Windows environment, opening up multitasking capabilities for facility managers. A single PC managing the BAS can simultaneously run other applications—improving workflow efficiency.
Windows’ data sharing and Dynamic Data Exchange (DDE) features enable easy transfer of trend logs to Excel, where custom charts and analyses can be created. This simplifies data-driven energy management, helping facilities spot inefficiencies and optimize performance quickly.
Empowering Users with Full Control and Independence
We believe building operators should not be dependent on factory engineers for routine adjustments. Every BAS installation includes complete software tools that let on-site personnel monitor, manage, and modify system operation using intuitive fill-in-the-blank and point-and-click configuration screens.
For example, a building manager can adjust HVAC setpoints or update schedules on the fly without costly service calls, increasing responsiveness to occupant comfort needs and energy-saving opportunities.
Competitive Pricing Without Compromise
Throughout development, we prioritized affordability. The BAS system—covering hardware, software, and installation—has always been priced to compete with or beat other market options. This makes advanced building automation accessible not only to large enterprises but also to mid-sized and smaller facilities aiming to improve energy efficiency and operational control.
Designing for Today and Tomorrow
These foundational design criteria set Enertec-BAS apart from competitors at the system’s inception and remain the pillars of our commitment today. By developing the BAS system with a focus on practicality, openness, user empowerment, and cost-effectiveness, we continue enabling customers across the U.S.—from Western states like Texas and Montana to the Pacific Coast—to take full control of their buildings’ environments and energy use.
Experience the proven benefits of Enertec-BAS Corporation’s thoughtful development of the BAS system—a solution designed with your real-world challenges and needs in mind.
