Beneath the surface of any modern building is a complex network of wiring that powers an array of automated systems running 24/7. Building automation systems (BAS) are designed to unify these systems into a single, centrally controlled platform, improving efficiency, security, and energy savings. However, many organizations face BAS integration problems from outdated infrastructure, incompatible technologies, or poor system design.
In this article, we explore common BAS integration problems, their root causes, and how strategic planning can help resolve them. Discover how advanced BAS integration solutions are breaking down barriers to smarter, more connected buildings.
MULTIPLE SYSTEMS, INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS
Modern buildings rely on a wide range of independent systems like lighting, HVAC, access systems, and CCTV, all operating in parallel with little coordination. Managing these separate systems requires facility teams to constantly monitor performance, cross-check data, and manually adjust settings.
There are significant advantages to combining these discrete building services into a single centralized system. These include:
- Reduced energy usage
- Improved tenant comfort
- Enhanced equipment performance
- Increased staff productivity
- Easier maintenance
- Tighter security
BAS integration streamlines building management by connecting separate systems under one interface, eliminating inefficiencies, and improving overall performance. Below, we explore five key challenges that BAS integration is designed to solve, along with the solutions that make smart buildings more efficient and responsive.
1. INTEROPERABILITY ISSUES
Problem: Some older automated building systems (such as Johnson Controls N2, Carrier CCN, and Trane Comm4) still run on proprietary “closed” protocols that can make it difficult to connect to non-proprietary “open” source systems (like BACnet) or other proprietary systems. This creates challenges in getting different building systems to communicate with one another.
Root cause: Data from sensors in one system cannot be transmitted or shared with other building systems, so whole-building automation and control are impossible. In addition, facilities staff familiar with the operation of one “legacy” system might not be trained in the operation and maintenance of any other system.
Solution: BAS integration specialists like Conexus are experts at unlocking proprietary systems. In some cases, they even Utilize specialized drivers to enable legacy systems to communicate with industry-standard open systems like Niagara using BACnet protocols.
2. DATA SILOS
Problem: Automated building systems collect a lot of data about environmental conditions and system performance. This historical trend data can be a very valuable asset for businesses to use to track and adjust system performance.
Having data split across separate BAS systems hinders cross-comparison, reducing its value for strategic decisions—especially for energy management. Comparing energy use across campus buildings is challenging when HVAC and lighting data remain siloed without meteorological context.
Root cause: Having separate proprietary or non-proprietary automated building systems running in parallel makes cross-comparison cumbersome.
Solution: Modern BAS systems are designed with information sharing in mind, especially as deep data mining and AI applications become more prevalent. A fully integrated BAS system uploads data to a single server and provides data analytics tools to process it.
3. COMPATIBILITY ISSUES WITH LEGACY SYSTEMS
Problem: While it’s often possible to get legacy systems and newer BAS equipment to “talk” through integration, it might not be possible to solve all compatibility issues in this way. Even when integrated, older systems continue to operate according to the same functionality and sequence of operation they were originally designed for.
This can be a problem when legacy operations prevent your BAS from seamlessly integrating multiple systems.
Root cause: When building systems are incompatible or not functioning properly, integrating advanced BAS technology won’t resolve the underlying issues.
Solution: In such cases, replacing outdated systems with BACnet-compatible alternatives is often the most cost-effective long-term solution.
At Conexus, we’re more than integration specialists. We can roll out all-new open-protocol systems and integrate them into a BAS with a single user-friendly interface.
4. CYBERSECURITY CONCERNS
Problem: Older automated building systems are typically less secure than modern integrated BASs and more vulnerable to cyberattacks or hacking. This can be a problem when, for example, an automated system is responsible for controlling access to the building.
Root Cause: Legacy systems lack modern cybersecurity safeguards to withstand today’s sophisticated cyberattacks, posing a potential liability for your organization.
Solution: Despite being based on open architectures, modern BAS systems are designed to be far more secure than early generations of building automation equipment. Integrating legacy systems with modern open architectures like Niagara can alleviate most cybersecurity concerns.
5. SCALABILITY LIMITS
Problem: Niagara doesn’t have a set limit on the number of data points you can integrate. However, communication protocols have their own limitations, which can affect performance and scalability. Niagara offers licenses for various device counts, making it a cost-effective and scalable solution when purchasing a license for a JACE or server.
Root Cause: Some older communication protocols may slow down or struggle with large amounts of data, leading to system performance issues, such as delays or lost data, if the protocol can’t handle the network traffic efficiently.
Solution: Use BACnet IP instead of slower protocols, especially on large networks with heavy data traffic.
GET AHEAD, STAY AHEAD
Successfully integrating new and existing systems into a BAS requires a proactive approach to both problems and opportunities. Identifying potential communication bottlenecks, optimizing network configurations, and regularly updating software can help prevent performance issues before they occur.
Facility managers should prioritize continuous improvement of BAS performance, not just maintenance. Ongoing monitoring and adjustments minimize downtime and enhance efficiency. Proactively addressing challenges ensures a reliable, scalable, and high-performing BAS that delivers long-term value.
CONEXUS: YOUR BAS INTEGRATION EXPERTS
Facility managers face a tough decision as fully integrated building management systems become the standard: invest in a complete overhaul and recover the cost over years—or decades—or take a staged approach by integrating legacy systems with newer BAS technology.
At Conexus, we help you design a BAS strategy tailored to your budget, timeline, and building needs. Whether replacing existing systems or integrating legacy ones with modern BAS technologies, we offer flexible, affordable open-source solutions that maximize your original investments while planning for the future.
Get in touch today. Our experts are ready to help with upgrades and integration of any scale, ensuring long-term operational efficiency. Click below to learn more about our BAS integration solutions or request a free quote.
