SBA 447: How to Program a BAS

Episode Description: Dive into the intricacies of building automation programming with Phil Zito in Episode 447 of the Smart Buildings Academy Podcast. This technical episode takes a deep dive into the art and science of writing effective building automation programs, focusing on sequences of operations, design patterns, and translating complex sequences into graphical programming interfaces. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Building Automation Programming: Phil sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of programming fundamentals, emphasizing the transition from theoretical knowledge to practical application. Understanding Sequences of Operations: Learn how to dissect and understand general sequences of operations, focusing on economizers as a primary example to illustrate the process of identifying patterns and translating them into code. Graphical vs. Line Code Programming: Phil explains the difference between graphical and line code programming, focusing on the use of graphical blocks to represent programming logic, making it accessible for beginners and seasoned professionals alike. Decoding Design Patterns: Discover the importance of design patterns in building automation programming, including comparative patterns and PID (Proportional, Integral, Derivative) patterns, and how they apply to various automation tasks. Practical Programming Demonstration: Through a live demonstration, Phil showcases the step-by-step process of writing a program, from identifying variables to implementing logic blocks and adjusting setpoints. Troubleshooting and Optimization: Insights into common programming challenges, such as understanding interlocks, utilizing Boolean logic, and the significance of loop enables for efficient PID control. Q&A and Interactive Learning: Phil addresses listener questions and emphasizes the importance of community feedback in shaping future podcast topics, particularly focusing on areas like Priority Arrays and BACnet fundamentals.