The Time for Interoperability is NOW.(Brief Article)

What is interoperability?

In building automation system (bas) terms, interoperability is the sharing of, and acting upon, information between different manufacturers' systems, such as fire/life safety, hvac, lighting, security, and industrial controls. When these systems are effectively integrated, true interoperability is achieved. The key objective is to allow the bas to understand and act upon information originating from multiple systems and sources.

Unfortunately, achieving interoperability among systems is not easy. It requires significant effort on the part of engineering consultants, customers, integrators, and manufacturers. However, the tools are available today to make interoperability happen. These tools include protocols and protocol interfaces used to achieve systems communication. In addition, clear and realistic expectations need to be understood for the systems integration to be a success in the eyes of all parties involved, especially the customer.

One expectation that is critical to understand is the use of the protocol. It's important to realize that a single protocol is oftentimes not enough to guarantee an interoperable system. To make interoperability truly happen, significant planning is necessary to ensure that all the proper pieces are in place, and to realize that a protocol is simply the tool which makes it possible.

ACHIEVING INTEROPERABILITY

Here are 10 keys to success in achieving interoperability and in helping it live up to not only its promises, but to expectations as well.

* Evaluate your facility thoroughly to identify the systems that should be, or need to be, integrated. Be sure to define each system specifically by manufacturer, model, scope, components, and system version or revision.