Optimizing Building Automation Networks with Visual BACnet

Enhancing Efficiency and Accountability

In today’s rapidly evolving world, building automation systems play a crucial role in ensuring efficient operations, energy savings, and occupant comfort. However, troubleshooting and optimizing these complex networks can be a challenging task. Enter Visual BACnet, a powerful solution offered by Optigo Networks. In this blog, we will delve into the insights shared by Ryan Hughson, Director of Business Development, highlighting the journey of Optigo Networks, the capabilities of Visual BACnet, and the impact it has on building automation networks.

Optigo Networks, established 13 years ago, started out by providing operational technology (OT) network solutions via its Optigo Connect line of products. Over time, they expanded their expertise into analytics, primarily driven by the demands of the building and BIS market. Recognizing the widespread use of inadequate tools like Wireshark for troubleshooting building automation systems, Optigo developed a game-changing solution – Visual BACnet.

Visual BACnet is a comprehensive BACnet analysis tool that empowers users to diagnose and troubleshoot issues within their building automation networks. Its primary goal is to help optimize network performance and reduce troubleshooting time. Regardless of whether it’s a legacy system or a state-of-the-art IP-based infrastructure, Visual BACnet has the capability to identify issues across IP, Ethernet, and MSTP networks.

One of the standout features of Visual BACnet is its ability to foster accountability throughout the entire building automation ecosystem. System integrators, building owners, facility managers, and internal engineers all benefit from this solution.

System integrators leverage Visual BACnet during construction projects to provide well-documented and properly commissioned networks. This ensures smooth project handovers, quicker issue resolution during the warranty period, and comprehensive records for future reference.

For end users, Visual BACnet acts as a powerful tool to hold contractors accountable. With multiple contractors involved in building projects, it can be challenging for end users to have a unified view of the network’s performance. Visual BACnet empowers end users to monitor and assess network health, pinpointing potential issues and facilitating targeted solutions.

Visual BACnet operates through a two-part system. On-site, a local application gathers BACnet data continuously or periodically, according to user preference. This data is then transmitted to Visual BACnet, hosted on the reliable Amazon Web Services cloud infrastructure. The transmitted data is processed, analyzed, and presented to users, allowing for real-time monitoring and actionable insights. Visual BACnet can generate alerts and alarms, ensuring prompt response to network health changes or performance thresholds being breached.