When Trend launched its ground breaking IQ3xcite building services controller it knew it was on to a winner. Three years on and it is clear that the company’s confidence was fully justified, as each new set of sales figures shows. The controller’s appeal has stemmed from such key features as its Ethernet/TCP/IP connectivity, modular i/o and highly flexible firmware. Importantly, Trend has continued to develop the IQ3xcite product ‘family’, to the benefit both of end-users and the network of accredited channel partners who supply its systems.
 The IQ3xcite’s Ethernet/TCP/IP connectivity has facilitated closer integration of a Trend building management system and a user’s IT network. At a physical level this means that the whole BMS, or at least most of it, can share existing IT infrastructure, and as a result installed costs can be greatly reduced. Such convergence also simplifies and widens access to system data, one consequence of which is enhanced building performance.
The functionality of building management systems is in no way compromised by integration with IT. Indeed, the much higher data transmission speeds provided by Ethernet/TCP/IP as compared with a normal BMS network, can be highly advantageous. Conversely, and contrary to some expectations, IT networks have not been affected by their use for BMS traffic. This has helped to persuade IT managers that there is no reason for them to oppose this merging of technologies. Indeed more and more of them now actually encourage it.
Integration with IT has inevitably required the acquisition of new skills by the controls specialists who install BMS. For instance, they have to become proficient at using a different cable standard (Cat 5), programming hubs and switches and working with unfamiliar network topologies. But experience has shown that, with proper training, they have no difficulty doing this. Given that it is widely accepted that Ethernet and TCP/IP will be the basis for future integration of buildings’ technical services – and interfacing them with business systems – the commercial opportunities available to controls contractors will increasingly depend on their mastery of IT technology.
To help its channel partners to gain the necessary skills, Trend provides specialist tools, training and technical support. It has also introduced new system products that make their job easier, like the 3xtend. This is a simple, single-box solution for interfacing an IQ3xcite Ethernet network to a LonWorks bus supporting Trend IQL air conditioning terminal unit controllers. And thanks to another new addition to the IQ3xcite ‘family’ - the NXIP - it is now possible to connect Trend NX variable speed drives directly to Ethernet. This low-cost interface card slots neatly into all NXS models.
The IQ3xcite’s use of modular input/output units makes it easier to customise a BMS to match user requirements. Originally there were six types of module, but now there are ten. This, coupled with the development of a smaller (12i/o) base controller, IQ3xact, has allowed systems to be tailored even more precisely. One of the new modules comprises 16 digital inputs, which is particularly useful for systems with an extensive monitoring/metering role. It is able to accept direct 24V ac inputs, eliminating any need for interposing relays.
Another advantage of modular i/o is seen when making provision for system expansion. Instead of having to leave a certain number of spare i/o points – which may well turn out to be the wrong type – it is only necessary to leave space within the panel for extra modules. The IQ3xcite’s firmware structure, in which the strategy function modules can serve any role, also avoids problems in the future. However, its greatest advantage lies in the freedom it gives to the control strategy designer when the controllers are first configured. (This is illustrated by the BMS at Eliot Park Innovation Centre described later in this issue.)
An upgraded version of the controller is due out early next year. Its benefits will include making IT integration easier still. Nor will the story end there. Yet more can be expected of IQ3xcite.
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