The BACnet communication protocol for building automation, which is maintained by ASHRAE, has emerged as the predominant communication protocol among all the manufacturers of building automation systems, says an article by ForesterNetwork.com.
BACnet is an open, interoperable standard, so devices from different manufactures can all communicate with one another and are visible under a single user interface. This enables building owners to work with a variety of manufacturers and service providers.
The first level of automation using BACnet might be an entire HVAC system, for example. The next level could be integrating various systems such as the HVAC system with a lighting system; and the last level is data analytics and data information, says the article.