Carrier Adds Wireless Space Sensors to i-Vu® Building Automation System
Optimizes comfort, control and efficiency. Commercial building operators need flexible solutions to help control their building’s heating, cooling and lighting systems. To address that, Carrier has enhanced the Carrier i-Vu building automation system to include a new line of self-powered, wireless space sensors. These new sensors provide flexible installation options, allowing building climates to be controlled for optimum comfort and energy efficiency. Carrier, a world leader in high-technology heating, air-conditioning and refrigeration solutions, is a part of UTC Climate, Controls & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
The new wireless sensors monitor a variety of building conditions including temperature, humidity, motion and light as well as the opening and closing of doors and windows. The data is then shared with the i-Vu building automation system so users can develop intelligent control strategies to optimize the control of HVAC and lighting systems in the building, including:
- Adjusting room temperatures and turning lights on or off based on room occupancy
- Adjusting lighting levels to accommodate natural light (daylight harvesting)
- Turning heating or cooling systems on or off by sensing when windows are open or closed
The new wireless sensors use energy-harvesting EnOcean® technology, collecting ambient light via built-in solar panels that power the sensor. Batteries or other power sources are not required when sufficient lighting exists.
The wireless sensors are also easy to install. They can be positioned in most spots and setup takes just minutes. Relocating them is also simple and straightforward so occupant comfort is consistent when interior spaces are reconfigured. Their surface-mounted feature allows them to be positioned to avoid obstructions, enabling robust wireless communication. They also integrate seamlessly with Carrier’s wired ZS sensors, allowing them to be mixed and matched to accommodate building needs.
“Carrier is proud to add another plug-and-play component to the i-Vu building automation system,” says Mark Jones, business manager, Carrier Controls. “By providing customers with wireless sensing options that are easy to install, they can provide better control of their building systems especially in previously challenging locations. The result is a more comfortable environment for building occupants and improved efficiency and energy savings for building owners.”
The new sensors work in conjunction with a wireless adapter, which enables communication between the wireless sensors and an i-Vu controller in the space. With a 60-foot range, a strong signal throughout the building eliminates the need to install repeaters or amplifiers for zone-based applications. And since the adapter can be connected to both new and existing i-Vu controllers, the wireless adapter makes it relatively easy to add wireless sensors in new and retrofit applications.
Because of their flexibility, the wireless sensors also offer several benefits to installers:
- Easy installation and commissioning
- No wires to trace when diagnosing potential issues
- Wireless software included for quick and easy sensor pairing/diagnostics
The new wireless sensors are available for sale in North America through Carrier Controls Experts. For more information on the i-Vu building automation system and the new wireless sensors, please visit carrier.com.
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