OPENBAS FAQ

What is Building Automation System?
Building Automation Systems (BAS) are centralized, interlinked networks of hardware and software which monitor and control the environment in industrial, commercial, or residential applications. While managing various building systems, the automation system ensures optimal operational performance of the facility, comfort and safety of building occupants, and increases energy efficiency.
What is OpenBAS?
Mircom’s OpenBAS (Building Automation System) is a wide selection of UL/ULC listed controllers and supporting accessories that can be easily integrated into any industrial, commercial, or residential applications. OpenBAS delivers HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), Lighting, Power Metering, and VAV Fan & Coil control to optimize comfort and energy management within a facility. OpenBAS controllers are programmable and configurable with advanced functions to accommodate any custom application.
Which systems in a building can OpenBAS control?
OpenBAS delivers HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning), Lighting, Power Metering, and VAV Fan & Coil control to optimize comfort and energy management within a facility.
Is OpenBAS recognized by any listing agencies?
OpenBAS equipment is certified by listing agencies, such as: UL, ULC, CSA, and FCC.
How many PLCs (Programmable Logic Controllers) can I have on my network?
Depending on the network type, different capabilities are offered. TCP/IP networks have the number of devices limited by the number of IP addresses available on each network; however, routers can be used to span multiple networks allowing an unlimited number of devices. On RS485 networks, the different protocols supported offer device capabilities between 127 and 250 devices on each individual sub network.
Can I integrate with 3rd party hardware such as fire panels, lighting controllers, etc.?
OpenBAS supports main stream open protocols, allowing 3 rd party hardware and software to be integrated into OpenBAS networks. OpenBAS equipment can also be integrated into 3rd party networks.
What are the 3rd party integration softwares available?
Schneider’s StruxureWare, NiagaraAX Framework®, BACnet Explorer, Modbus poll, etc. 2 June 2017
Do I have access to the configuration library?
The OpenBAS configurator software includes an EZ wizard application builder with prebuilt and ready-to-use solutions for applications in HVAC, mechanical rooms, lighting control, power metering, protocol conversion, etc.
Do I have to purchase the configurator tool/software?
The OpenBAS configurator software is free to download from the Mircom website and includes all the modules required to configure and commission all OpenBAS.
Is the OpenBAS literature available online?
Yes, OpnBAS literature is available for download on the Mircom website. https://mircom.com/product-category/smart-buildings/building-automation-systems/
What is the programming language?
OpenBAS controllers can be programmed using ladder logic instructions; they also have integrated script compilers supporting multiple languages other than English. The script can be written in French, Spanish, German, Italian, and Dutch. The EZ wizard application builder creates initial templates of scripts ready to be compiled, downloaded to the controllers and further modified to meet the application requirements.
Is there a quoting tool? / How many devices do I need in my building?
There is a quoting tool available to recommend the base equipment and optional accessories required. Please contact our sales representatives to aid you in selecting the appropriate products to meet your needs.
What happens if there is a network outage?
OpenBAS controllers are microprocessor-based and programmed individually so they can still operate when offline.
Does Mircom’s OpenBAS include field devices such as chilled water valves, dampers, VAV controllers, and temperature thermostats?
Mircom is an authorized distributor for Schneider products, which include valves, actuators, various sensors, VAV controllers, dampers, and thermostats. OpenBAS offers VAV controllers and temperature thermostats.
Are there any training modules for the OpenBAS system?
Yes. Mircom offers both online and in-class training for OpenBAS. Part of the in-class training will include a free Learning Module (OpenBAS-HV-LEARN) coupled with the configuration software to provide simulated field scenarios.