ControlTalk Now : Sales, Marketing, Products and Technical Tips for HVAC and Smart Building Controls Professionals

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair jinns me on this week's ControlTalk Now.

Lighting savant and host of the Get a Grip on Lighting Podcast, Michael Colligan is my guest this week. Michael shares his unique perspective on lighting and lighting control. We discuss the rapidly changing landscape of lighting, and how technology is transforming what was once a purely artistic endeavor. Topics include: How to Avoid LED rip-offs and avoid health hazards of LED lighting. How to do LED lighting the proper way. This is a must for those interested in getting the straight skinny on lighting. Get more control news you can use at http://controltrends.com

In today's digital age, remote access and management have become essential components of various industries, including building automation control systems. In a recent interview on Controltalk Now, the Smart Buildings Podcast, Chad Behling, the founder and CEO of ControlBright, shed light on how his company is transforming the landscape of remote device access. In this blog post, we'll delve into the innovative solutions offered by ControlBright, making it easier for technicians to manage and troubleshoot devices remotely. ControlBright: A Game-Changer in Remote Access ControlBright is a cloud-controlled remote access platform designed specifically for industrial controllers. This platform opens up a world of possibilities for technical support, offering the ability to adjust, troubleshoot, and reboot controllers remotely. Let's explore the key features and benefits that make ControlBright a game-changer in the field of remote access: 1. Streamlined Remote Device Access ControlBright provides a revolutionary cloud-controlled remote access platform that simplifies remote device access through a single user VPN. This eliminates the need for cumbersome VPN certificate management, making it incredibly user-friendly for technicians. 2. Versatility in Remote Access Users can access any remote device through ControlBright's platform. Whether it's modems, IP devices, or cellular connectivity, ControlBright's centralized portal allows easy management from anywhere in the world. 3. Wide Compatibility ControlBright is designed to be compatible with nearly any IP-based device, whether it's connected via Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Additionally, RS232 tunneling is available for control outside of IP, ensuring comprehensive coverage. 4. Hardware Options ControlBright offers users a range of hardware options to suit their specific needs. These options include connectivity via 4G, Wi-Fi, or Ethernet, with additional functionalities like an onboard battery, file storage, DIN rail mount, and more. 5. Mini-PC Addon For those seeking compatibility with various IP-based devices, ControlBright offers a mini-PC addon. This addon further expands the platform's capabilities, making it a versatile choice for technicians. 6. Positive Testimonials ControlBright has garnered positive testimonials from users who have greatly benefited from its remote access solutions. It has transformed the way technicians work, allowing them to manage and troubleshoot devices efficiently and effectively. 7. Reliability and Ease of Use Designed with technicians in mind, ControlBright is not only reliable but also exceptionally easy to use. Its user-friendly interface ensures that technicians can make the most of its capabilities without a steep learning curve. Conclusion: Unlocking the Potential of Remote Access ControlBright's cloud-controlled remote access platform is revolutionizing the way industries manage their devices remotely. With the elimination of on-site visits and a simplified approach to remote device access, ControlBright is poised to become an integral part of the future of building automation control systems. If you're interested in learning more about ControlBright's remote access solutions or how it can benefit your industry, don't hesitate to contact them today. Discover the power of efficient and effective remote access with ControlBright.

Unlocking the Future of Building Automation: An Exclusive Interview with Troy Harvey, CEO of Passive Logic In an era where technology is reshaping the way we live and work, it's no surprise that our buildings are becoming smarter than ever before. Building automation and control systems are at the forefront of this transformation, and one company is leading the charge - Passive Logic. We had the privilege of sitting down with Troy Harvey, the visionary founder and CEO of Passive Logic, to gain insights into their groundbreaking technology and its potential to revolutionize the world of smart buildings. A Glimpse into Passive Logic's Vision From the very beginning, it's evident that Passive Logic is on a mission to redefine building automation. According to Troy Harvey, the company is focused on "bringing building automation into 2023 by creating generative autonomy for buildings." This bold vision promises to change the way we interact with our built environments, making them more efficient, responsive, and sustainable. The Four-Pillar Approach Passive Logic's upcoming event on November 2nd is generating significant buzz. During the interview, Troy Harvey hinted at what attendees can expect. He mentioned a four-pillar approach that includes digital twins and AI compiler technology. These pillars are poised to shape the future of smart buildings, offering not just control but predictive and generative autonomy for building systems. Open Interfaces and Compatibility One standout aspect of Passive Logic's approach is their emphasis on open interfaces and support for various protocols and languages. This commitment to compatibility ensures seamless integration with different devices and systems within buildings. It's a crucial step in creating a truly interconnected and responsive environment. Cost-Efficiency and Accessibility Troy Harvey also shed light on a common concern in the industry – the cost of building automation integration. Many solutions come with a hefty price tag, making them inaccessible to some. However, with the introduction of tools and APIs by Quantum, Passive Logic is working to streamline the development of building applications, making integration more accessible and cost-effective. Bridging the Gap A key point of discussion was the disconnect between the installers of building controls and those seeking building management solutions. Passive Logic recognizes that bridging this gap is essential for the industry's growth. Their innovative technology aims to simplify the process, making it easier for both parties to work together seamlessly. The Role of AI and Automation Throughout the interview, the role of AI and automation in building automation was a recurring theme. While these technologies have the potential to make building automation more efficient, Troy Harvey emphasized the need for a broader workforce with the skills to utilize these technologies effectively. A Date to Remember In closing, Troy Harvey invited everyone to Passive Logic's event on November 2nd. This event promises to showcase technology that can drive digital transformation in the building industry, opening up new possibilities and opportunities for the industry as a whole. Conclusion As our world becomes increasingly interconnected and reliant on technology, the future of building automation holds immense promise. Troy Harvey and Passive Logic are at the forefront of this transformation, pushing boundaries and reimagining the possibilities of smart buildings. Stay tuned for more insights, updates, and industry innovations as we continue to explore the ever-evolving landscape of technology and its impact on our built environment. Don't forget to subscribe to our channel for the latest updates and interviews with industry leaders. #SmartBuildings #BuildingAutomation #DigitalTransformation #PassiveLogic #TroyHarveyInterview #FutureofBuildings #AIinAutomation #DigitalTwins #IndustryInsights #BuildingManagement...

Join us for an enlightening interview with Donny Walker, a leading partner at Newcomb and Boyd, as we delve into the cutting-edge world of HVAC and Smart Buildings. In this captivating discussion, Donny shares his expertise and insights on the pivotal role of technology in revolutionizing asset management and control systems. 🤖 Key Takeaways from the Interview: 🔄 Proactive Maintenance: Learn how integrating machine learning can identify equipment anomalies and potential failures, revolutionizing the way we approach maintenance. 🔧 Streamlined Automation: Uncover the power of automation in asset management, providing vital part numbers and repair steps, while emphasizing the significance of human validation. 🌐 Data Accessibility: Explore how Artificial Intelligence templates can extract crucial data from building systems, making information more accessible and actionable. 💰 Cost-Effective Innovation: Discover why it's crucial to prepare for AI and digital twin applications during new construction projects, ensuring cost-effective data readiness. 🎯 Expertise Matters: Find out why assembling teams that include both control system experts and data analytics specialists is essential for project success. 📡 Industry Trends: Stay ahead in the game by learning about the shift towards IP controls, a "parts and smarts" model that optimizes installation work and prioritizes programming and efficiency. 🚀 Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights into the future of building automation! Whether you're a seasoned professional or just curious about the latest trends, this interview with Donny Walker is a must-watch. Get ready to elevate your understanding of HVAC and Smart Buildings to a whole new level. 📺 Subscribe now and hit the notification bell to stay updated on the latest innovations in control systems and asset management. Let's build the future of smart buildings together! 💡💪 #BuildingAutomation #SmartBuildings #ControlSystems #HVAC #innovation Stay in the know with the Controltrends Smart Briefing, a weekly digest of the best posts from ControlTrends https://eric-stromquist.ck.page/96aa2e4e1d

Dive into an engaging conversation on the latest trends and innovations shaping the building controls and construction industry. I am excited to welcome Mark Petock, a leading voice in the industry. In this episode: Discover how ICT Solutions is aiding system integrators with a hands-on team for diverse engineering tasks. From job execution to troubleshooting, they've got you covered! 🏢 Uncover ABB’s game-changing products, focusing on AI and variable frequency drives. 🤖 Discuss the changing landscapes of the construction world, influenced by the warm summers in the Southeast and the evolving sectors of retail and industrial distribution. 🌞 🏭 Explore the increasing demand for industrial distribution facilities optimized for the boom in online ordering. Delve into the rise of IP controls and their advantages, from seamless network integration and cybersecurity to IoT compatibility. 🌐 Understand the importance of cybersecurity in the realm of IP controls and how the industry is ramping up its efforts. 🛡️ Learn about "the edge" in building automation and its pivotal role in real-time automation and hybrid working models. 🏙️ Witness the transformation of building controls, emphasizing sustainability, decarbonization, and business outcomes. 🎨 Grasp the shift in consulting engineers’ approaches towards the adoption of newer building technologies. 🤝 Unravel the significance of data analytics, Haystack tagging, and their role in demonstrating environmental responsibility and compliance. 📊 Find out the immense value of Project Haystack in maximizing building data and equipment's potential. 🌐 Gather insights on the focus areas for system integrators like AI, EV charging stations, and robust cybersecurity. 🤖🔌 For building owners, explore the plethora of proven technological solutions merging operational efficacy with economical considerations. 🏢 Stay ahead of the curve by understanding these emerging trends and technologies. Subscribe and hit the bell icon to never miss an update!

In this must-listen episode of ControlTalk Now, we sit down with Joe Chandler, an industry expert from Brody Precision, to dive deep into the cutting-edge world of building automation control systems powered by ABB. Whether you're a building owner, contractor, or someone intrigued by smart buildings, this episode offers a wealth of insights. 🔹 Key Topics Covered: ABB's Revolution in Building Automation: Joe Chandler unpacks the high-performance capabilities and unique features of ABB's controllers and wall sensors, explaining how they've achieved unparalleled success in the industry. The Benefits of Retrofitting: Learn why retrofitting isn't just about cost-savings. We discuss the impact on indoor air quality and how retrofitting makes buildings more appealing to tenants by offering a safer, cleaner environment. 🔗 Special Offer: Don't miss out on a free online class from Belimo that teaches you how to cash in on the upcoming HVAC retrofit boom; you must register to attend: click here: https://bit.ly/45r4gOo The Power of Distribution: Discover how becoming an ABB distributor has enabled a myriad of options in building automation and VAV controllers, and how distribution allows for greater flexibility in meeting project-specific needs. Customer Support and Brand Differentiation: In an industry where trust and support are paramount, find out why ABB's attention to detail has made them a preferred choice for many and how brand differentiation fills gaps in the market. Innovative Solutions and Partnerships: ABB isn't just leading; they're innovating. We explore their universal I/O capabilities, upcoming fire smoke features, and their partnerships in the AI space, particularly with Brain Box. 👉 Tune in now to reshape how you think about building automation!

Are you looking for the latest insights on marketing in HVAC and Smart Building Controls? In this podcast episode, I welcome Brian Collins for a fascinating discussion on tenant override systems (7Nox) and how they save money. We delve into the new marketing realities of the industry, covering topics such as customer input vs visionary design, marketers as professional consumers, the importance of product perception, how companies like Apple succeed through advertising, and more! Tune in to learn about these important marketing strategies that will help propel your business forward.

Episode 424 of ControlTalk Now is one you do not want to miss! My guest this week has spent his career in transformative technologies. He specializes in cloud-based data and technology services that address challenges in automation, logistics, supply chain management, commerce, mobility, staffing, retail, automotive, transportation, advertising, and city services for consumers, commercial enterprises, or governments. Transforming technologies such as Big Data, Internet of Things (IoT), Machine Learning, Low-Code/No-Code, and Blockchain... what is he bringing to the building automation controls industry? That is what you will find out on this episode of ControlTalk Now! 🏢 Dive into the rich history of Johnson Controls as Bill Schwebel, the VP/GM - Building Automation Systems | Controls Bill takes us on a journey from Warren Johnson's invention of the first thermostat in 1883 to the future of smart building technology. 🔗 Key Highlights: Bill's passionate insights into the digital transformation journey from his early days in telecom. The challenges and opportunities of integrating digital technology into diverse building structures. Unpack Bill's perspective on why our homes are more intelligent than our buildings: The massive fragmentation challenge in the building industry compared to others, like automotive. A deep dive into the impact of Covid on building automation: The future shift in office space design and control. Why Johnson Controls stands out: As the sole giant in building technology, they integrate every system, from HVAC to security. The hurdles to digital transformation in buildings and Johnson Controls' proactive approach to educating the consulting engineering community. 🔍 Notable Quote: “A lot of that transition still needs to happen. Our homes are a lot smarter than our building.” - Bill Schwebel 👁️‍🗨️ Join our conversation and explore the innovations and challenges of the smart building controls industry. Don't forget to LIKE, SHARE, and SUBSCRIBE for more insights!

Join us for Episode 423 of Controltalk Now, where we dive into the world of smart buildings with our special guest, Osman Saleem. An expert in OT & IoT Cybersecurity, Smart Building Technology, and Smart Cities, Osman shares his insights on the cutting-edge intersection of building automation controls and cybersecurity. In this exciting episode, we explore IoT and OT cybersecurity, delving into the current landscape and challenges in the industry. Osman sheds light on building automation controls best practices around cybersecurity, providing invaluable tips and guidance on how to make buildings and building automation control systems safer from cyberattacks. Whether you're a building professional, tech enthusiast, or just curious about the future of smart buildings, this episode is packed with valuable information. Subscribe now, hit the like button, and don't forget to ring the bell to stay updated on future episodes.

Are you struggling with the labor shortage in the smart building and controls industry? Get ready for a game-changing conversation with the team from Innovative Control Tech Solutions (ICT Solutions)! In this eye-opening episode of "Controltalk Now," the brilliant minds behind ICT Solutions dive deep into the pressing challenges of building automation control. With years of experience and innovative thinking, they have crafted tailor-made solutions to combat the industry-wide labor shortage problem. 🔑 What to Expect: 🎧 Join Us as We Explore: Don't miss this enlightening conversation with industry leaders, sharing a vision for a more efficient and advanced future in building automation control. Subscribe to "Controltalk Now" and stay ahead of the curve with ICT Solutions! 👇 Get started with ICT Solutions and discover where your building automation control needs meet their expertise. Click the to learn more and get the 10% Discount. https://eric-stromquist.ck.page/61322c3ce5 If you enjoyed this video, please like, share, and comment! Your support helps us bring more exciting content to the automation community.

Join me in Episode 420 of ControlTalk Now The HVAC and Smart Buildings Control Videocast and Podcast where I have an engaging conversation with Etrit Demaj, the co-founder of Kode Labs, one of the leading providers of smart building control systems. In this episode, Etrit shares his inspiring journey from leaving his war-torn country to establishing a successful business in the United States. Together with his brother Eddie, they saw a gap in the market for deploying smart building control systems through the cloud - an idea many were skeptical about. Their determination and innovative mindset led them to form Kode Labs, a company that continues to redefine smart building controls. Discover how Kode Labs is future-proofing portfolios with their Smart Building Software. Get an inside look at their Open Platform approach and how their services are enhancing operations by making them smarter, simpler, and more cost-effective. From Building Analytics to Mobile Reporting & Control, learn about the unique features that set Kode Labs apart. Hear firsthand from Etrit how they are helping Building Consultants, Real Estate Operators, and System Integrators to operate more effectively. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation. Listen in and get inspired! Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more videos like this!

Join us for an insightful conversation with Julie Petrone, Director of Marketing & Strategy at ABB Electrification, Americas, as we delve into the world of smart building controls. Julie takes us on her journey, from her early days as a copywriter and magazine publisher to her current role in driving marketing and strategy in the home and automation segment. In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of Smart Building Controls and discuss the innovative products offered by ABB, including their groundbreaking Efficiency AI SASS (Software as a Service) solution. Discover how this powerful software can seamlessly integrate with existing building automation control systems, empowering building owners with critical data to optimize energy usage, reduce operational costs through predictive maintenance, and achieve continuous commissioning. We also explore how the product simplifies ESG reporting, a key aspect of sustainable building practices. Julie shares her insights on harnessing the power of AI to transform buildings into smarter and more efficient spaces. Furthermore, we're thrilled to welcome marketing expert Danielle Radden from Talking Walls Marketing, who joins us to discuss the impact of AI on marketing professionals in our industry. Get ready to gain valuable marketing insights and learn how to leverage the best marketing principles to enhance your company's traction. Don't miss this episode sponsored by ABB, where we explore the intersection of technology, marketing, and sustainable building practices. Subscribe now and join us on this exciting journey toward a smarter, more efficient future.

Welcome to the 418th episode of Controltalk Now, your premier destination for everything HVAC and Smart Building Controls. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Mike Conway, the force behind the innovative Stacks + Joules program, and Tyler Ing, a proud graduate who's put his learning into action. The HVAC and Smart Building Controls industry faces a major challenge with a growing talent gap as seasoned professionals retire. Stacks + Joules, an extraordinary nonprofit, steps into the spotlight to address this issue by offering quality education in building automation controls. This episode dives deep into the unique mission and approach of this program. The intriguing name, Stacks + Joules, represents a blend of tech and finance. "Stacks" signify a combination of software products and programming languages, hinting at the high-earning potential of these skills. "Joules," a unit of electrical energy, symbolizes the program's dedication to its students and their bright future. What sets Stacks + Joules apart is its blend of theoretical and practical training, allowing students to get hands-on with tasks such as programming wireless LED banks. The program culminates in a capstone project where students synchronize bulbs with music—a fun, creative, and applicable skill in the building automation industry. Mike Conway and his team believe in the power of mentorship and industry connections. Stacks + Joules bridges the gap between academia and industry, offering insights and guidance to students. Collaborations with educational institutions further enhance the students' career paths. Stacks + Joules is more than a program—it's a launchpad into the future of the tech industry. Tune in to learn more about how Stacks + Joules is preparing the next generation for the building automation industry.

In this episode of the ControlTalk Now Podcast, we sit down with Nicolas Waern, a leading expert on digital twins and the CEO of Winniio. Nicolas discusses his journey into the smart building controls industry, his thoughts on AI, data analytics, blockchain, crypto, and most importantly, the role of digital twins in changing how we build and retrofit buildings for affordability and sustainability. Nicolas talks about his experiences with Go-IoT, BACnet, and IoT and his time as a management consultant in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) industry. He also shares insights into the concept of "Invite to Innovate" and how the utilization of digital twins is crucial for this innovation process. In his fascinating take on the future of smart building systems, Nicolas discusses how digital twins can change the way building owners select vendors, how sensors can "find their way" into the 3D model of a building, and his work with schools in Sweden. Watch the full interview to gain valuable insights into the future of building automation and control systems from one of the industry's leading voices.

Join us in this insightful conversation with Tim Vogel from KMC Controls as we discuss the future of building automation and how KMC is leading the charge with their American-made, innovative solutions. In this episode, we explore the ethos and value system that drives KMC, a family-owned company known for creating jobs and supporting American communities. Discover how they are fostering a unique environment of a generational community within the company. We dive into their flagship product, the KMC Commander, a pioneering, cloud-native system that provides seamless monitoring and control of HVAC, lighting, and energy management systems. Learn about the 'open' nature of the KMC Commander, which ensures maximum compatibility and ease of use, no matter where your data comes from or goes to. We also discuss the shifting priorities in the industry, particularly focusing on Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) goals. Listen as Vogel shares his perspective on the initial rush to improve IAQ during the pandemic, the subsequent return to cost-effectiveness, and how ESG goals should be approached strategically. Finally, get a sneak peek into what's new at KMC Controls! From collaborations with Veritify on a product called Dome, aimed at securing OT networks, to the introduction of their innovative Airflow Measurement System (AFMS), KMC is consistently pushing the boundaries of building automation technology. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation with one of the industry's leaders. Subscribe to our channel for more discussions like this, and don't forget to hit the like button if you find this content valuable! Click here to get more information on the Siemens RTU Solution. Click here to get the ControlTrends Weekly Smart Briefing

Greg Fitzpatrick from Cochrane Supply and Engineering was a guest on Episode 415 of Controltalk Now. In the episode, we discussed various topics related to building automation controls and control networks. Here are some key points mentioned during the conversation: Greg's role: Greg mentioned that he works with consulting engineers to help them understand and write specifications based on new technologies and network requirements in building automation controls. New website for consulting engineers: Cochrane Supply is launching a new website specifically for consulting engineers. This website will provide resources and best practices for smart building and building automation controls and control networks. Differences between IP controls and traditional controls: Greg talked about the shift towards IP controls and more IoT-type technologies. He discussed the differences between IP (Internet Protocol) and MSTP (Master-Slave/Token-Passing) and highlighted the importance of understanding IP network solutions for the facility world. Basic design principles for IP networks: Greg mentioned the importance of following basic design principles when setting up an IP network for building automation. This ensures a reliable and secure network infrastructure. Consultants as trusted advisors: Greg emphasized the role of consulting engineers as trusted advisors. They play a crucial role in guiding clients and helping them make informed decisions regarding open systems and new technologies. Evolution of consulting engineering: The discussion touched upon the evolving nature of consulting engineering, moving from one-to-one interactions to a more comprehensive and consultative approach. Importance of consulting engineers: Greg highlighted the significance of consulting engineers and their contributions to the industry. He shared his own experience working for a small firm in the early 90s and the value consultants bring to projects. Greg's roadshow and ICcon: Greg talked about his roadshow, which is different from the early days of building automation controls. He also mentioned his upcoming involvement at ICcon (presumably an industry conference) and the cyber forum scheduled for the event. Cybersecurity and real estate industry: The concept of "cyber harmony" was discussed in relation to the real estate industry. Best practice groups and the Real Estate Cyber Consortium were mentioned as initiatives focused on promoting cybersecurity in the industry. Continuous learning and expertise: Greg emphasized the importance of staying relevant and understanding what an expert looks like, even if one may not be an expert in every aspect. Continuous learning and awareness of industry trends are key. This week's Episode is brought to you by Functional Devices. Get the weekly ControlTrends Briefing here.

Are you feeling lost in the rapidly changing world of marketing? Struggling to make an impact with your strategies? We have just what you need. Join us in an exciting journey as we unravel the secrets of successful marketing with Lauren Scott, the VP of Marketing and Sustainability for the Intelligence Spaces Group. In an age where digital revolution is the norm, it's easy to feel overwhelmed. From creating engaging content to making meaningful connections with your audience, the challenges are endless. Plus, with an ever-growing focus on sustainability, it seems there's always more to learn. But, guess what? You are not alone. Many marketers are trying to navigate this fast-paced digital landscape. The struggle to keep up with emerging trends and tools, the difficulty of crafting messages that truly resonate, the need to strike a balance between business goals and environmental considerations – we all experience it. But don't fret! Our exclusive video is here to guide you. In this powerful conversation, Lauren Scott shares transformative insights from her journey. She unpacks the evolving marketing landscape, emphasizes the role of sustainability, and introduces us to the Intelligence Spaces Group. Not only that, she unveils the key to successful marketing: Identifying and solving the real problems. This podcast is more than just a conversation - it's a treasure trove of valuable marketing advice from an industry expert. Lauren's practical approach and unique perspectives will revolutionize your marketing game. Tune in to leap ahead of your competitors and start making a real difference with your marketing strategy today! Join us now in this engaging conversation and transform your marketing journey from overwhelmed to overjoyed. Let's bridge the gap between environmental needs and business goals together!

In this podcast episode, Fred Gordy from Michael Baker International discusses the importance of operational resilience in building systems and the need for an incident response plan. He also touches on the potential dangers of social media platforms and the role of AI in cybersecurity. Michael Baker International offers consultation services to help building owners and integrators assess their risk profiles and prioritize their cybersecurity efforts. Gordy recommends that building owners and integrators ask themselves three key questions: what do they have, how is it connected, and who has access? He also suggests conducting tabletop exercises to prepare for potential cybersecurity incidents.