Your Information Source for Home & Building Automation

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IS-2007-62: When Should I Use a Managed Ethernet Switch
This white paper from Contemporary Controls describes the functions of an Ethernet
switch. First the differences between a hub and an unmanaged switch are explained.
Then the functions possible in a managed switch are listed. A managed switch can
control the data rate delivered to each port. Also, diagnostic tools are available using the
Simple Network Management Protocol (SNMP).
IS-2007-61: The Market Survey of the Energy Industry 2004
The Association of Energy Engineers surveyed 456 association members on the state of
the energy market to help determine a national energy policy and the benefits of energy
management. Energy efficiency and management was judged most important. New
generation sources are needed, global warming must addressed, and investment tax
credits are beneficial. A slim majority thinks that mergers will hurt the energy industry.
The best incentive for utilities to encourage energy management is through rebates. This
survey is based on 49 questions. Detailed answers are provided.
IS-2007-60: Technology Contracting: Designing Systems for Efficiency and
Interoperability
Johnson Controls reports on the benefits of centralizing responsibility for the
management of building automation systems through technology contracting. Instead of
subcontracting HVAC, lighting, security, IT networking, etc. to separate companies with
separate responsibilities, an overall manager is assigned. This is particularly useful when
the building systems are integrated. This approach saves time, reduces risk and blame,
cuts capital costs, reduces construction costs, cuts operating costs, and enables system
interoperability. The process for technology contracting is described with a few examples.
IS-2007-59: Wireless Consumer and Business User Profiles
ABI Research conducted a survey among 1,223 cell phone users across the U.S. Results
of the survey are reported in the following categories: cell phone brands, monthly usage,
cell phone features including multimedia, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi access. Business users of
cell phone voice services spend 19 per cent more on voice and 80 per cent more on data
than consumers. Twenty-four per cent would like Internet access on their cell phones.
Femtocells extend cell phone service via a broadband connection into buildings and
homes where service might have been poor. Seventy-two per cent were not interested in
this service. About one-third of business users would add a cellular modem to their laptop
for Internet access via cell phone service.
IS-2007-58: National Action Plan for Energy Efficiency
The US Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency organized a
study on improving energy efficiency in homes, buildings, schools, governments, and
industry. Recommendations were developed for utilities, regulators, and partner
organizations. Demand for energy is expected to increase 30 to 40 per cent for electricity
by 2030. Energy efficiency programs could eliminate the need for 40 new 500-MW plants
over the next 10 to 12 years. Among the recommendations in this extensive report are
policy changes through rate designs to move utilities towards energy efficiency.
IS-2007-57: The Cost-Effectiveness of Commercial-Buildings Commissioning
This research report issued by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory describes a
process of building commissioning to detect and remedy problems. Such problems
include design flaws, construction defects, equipment problems, and needed
maintenance. A methodology was developed based on analyzing 224 buildings. HVAC
presented the most problems. New buildings have three times the defects of existing
buildings. System-level interactions were tested. Problems were found in valves, filters,
controls, etc. Non-energy benefits include improved equipment lifetime, productivity, and
indoor-air quality. Detailed data and charts are included.