Data
In order to understand building management systems, it is important to first understand what data is being collected and how it is being defined. Data can be generally defined as any piece of information that can be processed by a computer. This could include text, images, numbers, or even just simple true/false values.
In the context of building management systems, the data being collected is typically information about the various aspects of the building itself, such as the temperature, humidity, and light levels in each room. This data can then be used to help optimize the operation of the building, for example by adjusting the heating and cooling to achieve a more comfortable environment.
The way that this data is defined will vary depending on the particular system in use, but there are some common elements that are typically included. For example, most systems will have a way to identify each individual room in the building so that data can be automatically associated with that location. Additionally, there may be fields for specifying the type of sensor that was used to collect the data, as well as when the reading was taken.
Depending on the needs of the specific system, other types of data may also be collected and defined. For example, some buildings might have special requirements for security or energy usage that require additional tracking. By understanding these different types of data and how they are defined within a building management system, it becomes possible to make use of all this information to improve the efficiency and operation of the overall facility.
