ControlTalk Now The HVAC and Smart Building Controls Podcast (HVAC and Building Automation Controls)

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

Direct download: 452_Ken_Sinclair.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 8:53pm EST

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

Direct download: Epsiode_351_Shin_a_light_on_Lighting.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:28pm EST

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.

 
 
 
Direct download: 430_Chad_B._controlBright.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 10:03pm EST

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 #TechInnovation #SmartTechnology


Direct download: 429_BAS.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 8:01pm EST

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.

πŸ€– Key Takeaways from the Interview:

πŸ”„ Proactive Maintenance: Learn how integrating machine learning can identify equipment anomalies and potential failures, revolutionizing the way we approach maintenance.

πŸ”§ 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.

πŸ’° 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.

 πŸŽ― Expertise Matters: Find out why assembling teams that include both control system experts and data analytics specialists is essential for project success.

πŸ“‘ 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.

πŸš€ 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.

 πŸ“Ί 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!

πŸ’‘πŸ’ͺ #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

Direct download: 428_Donny_Walker.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 8:05am EST

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. πŸ€–

 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.

πŸ›‘οΈ Learn about "the edge" in building automation and its pivotal role in real-time automation and hybrid working models.

 πŸ™οΈ 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.

πŸ“Š 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.

πŸ€–πŸ”Œ 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!

Direct download: 427_Marc_Petock.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 10:48pm EST

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.

 πŸ”Ή 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.

πŸ”— 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.

πŸ‘‰ Tune in now to reshape how you think about building automation!

Direct download: 426_Joe_Chandler.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 11:29am EST

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.

Direct download: Episode_425_Brian_Collins_Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:19am EST

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. πŸ”— 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. πŸ” Notable Quote: β€œA lot of that transition still needs to happen. Our homes are a lot smarter than our building.” - Bill Schwebel πŸ‘οΈβ€πŸ—¨οΈ 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!

Direct download: Episode_424_Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:20pm EST

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.

Direct download: Epiosde_423_podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:49pm EST

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.

πŸ”‘ What to Expect:

  • Insight into the demanding world of smart building and controls.
  • Exclusive details about ICT Solutions' cutting-edge services and engineering expertise.
  • Practical solutions to the labor shortage that’s affecting the building automation industry.
  • A unique perspective on how to grow your business and enhance profitability in these challenging times.

🎧 Join Us as We Explore:

  • ICT Solutions' commitment to quality and customer satisfaction.
  • The role of innovation in overcoming labor-intensive tasks.
  • How Tridium N4 certified team members are making a difference in integration projects.
  • Their stance on using open protocols to safeguard customer investments.

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!

πŸ‘‡ 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.

Direct download: Episode_422_Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 4:06pm EST

Direct download: 421_Ken_Sinclair_podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 11:00am EST

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!

Direct download: 420_Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 6:09pm EST

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.

Direct download: Episode_419_Featuring_Julie_Petrone.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 5:07pm EST

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 musicβ€”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 programβ€”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.

Direct download: Epsisoee_418_Podcast_final.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 5:59pm EST

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.

 

 
Direct download: 417_Nicolas_Waern_Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:13pm EST

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

 

 
Direct download: Episode_416_Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:50am EST

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:

  1. 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.

  2. 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.

  3. 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.

  4. 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.

  5. 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.

  6. 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.

  7. 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.

  8. 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.

  9. 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.

  10. 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.

 
Direct download: 415_Greg_Fitzpatrick_V2.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 10:10am EST

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!

Direct download: Scott.Lauren_.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 11:40am EST

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.

Direct download: 413_Verisonmp3.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:27pm EST

In the realm of building automation and controls, there are few who embody the wisdom and tenacity of the great Truett Cathy, founder of Chick-fil-A.

One such man is Stephen Johnson, the Vice President of Automation and Controls at McKenneys.

From humble beginnings as a janitor at Chick-fil-A Corporation, Stephen scaled the ranks and, for a time, served as the bodyguard and driver for Truett Cathy himself.

 Now, with lessons from the legend echoing in his heart, Stephen applies this wisdom to his work at McKenneys, shaping the future of the building automation controls industry.

 In Episode 414 of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Buildings Podcast, Stephen shares the invaluable insights he gleaned from his time with Truett Cathy and how these lessons have shaped his leadership at McKenneys.


My guest this week is Jeff Kimmel. Jeff is the Co-founder and CEO of Elipsa.ai

If you are looking for ways to reduce the costs it takes to run your building or factory, and if you are looking to cut energy and maintenance costs, then this episode is for you!

Elipsa is an automated AI platform.They put the AI capabilities in your hands, enabling you to be proactive in your approach saving time and money addressing problems before they occur. Epipsa works with the Niagara data service. is a tool for users through a simple point and click to be able to create AI algorithms that are applicable to industrial use cases and machinery.

Here are some benefits of using Elipsa in concert with your building management system and why it’s the smart choice for building management Jeff discusses on this episode

 1. Power Usage Reduction:

One of the biggest benefits of using Elipsa is its ability to reduce power usage in buildings. With its advanced analytics and predictive maintenance capabilities, Elipsa can help identify and resolve energy inefficiencies in real-time, allowing businesses to save money on energy costs and reduce their environmental footprint.

2. Predictive Maintenance:

Another key benefit of using Elipsa is its predictive maintenance capabilities. By monitoring and analyzing data from building systems and equipment, Elipsa can identify potential issues before they become major problems, allowing businesses to proactively address maintenance needs and avoid costly downtime.

3. Scenario Testing Through Digital Twins:

Elipsa’s AI-based scenario testing feature allows businesses to model different scenarios and test the impact of potential changes before implementing them. This helps businesses make informed decisions and avoid unintended consequences that can negatively impact operations and the bottom line.

4. Customizable Dashboards and Alerts:

Elipsa’s customizable dashboards allow businesses to easily monitor and manage building systems and equipment in real-time. This provides businesses with a clear and comprehensive view of building operations, allowing them to make informed decisions and quickly respond to issues as they arise.

5. Integrations:

Elipsa is designed to integrate with a wide range of building systems and equipment, including HVAC, lighting, security, and more. This allows businesses to centralize and streamline their building management operations, reducing complexity and increasing efficiency.

Overall, the benefits of using Elipsa are clear. By providing operators with powerful analytics, predictive maintenance, and scenario testing capabilities, Elipsa can help businesses save money, increase efficiency, and reduce their environmental impact. If you’re looking for a smarter, more effective way to manage your building operations, look no further than Elipsa.

Contact Elipsa today at www.elipsa.ai


Sarah Monteleone, the President of Controls Group North America is my guest this week on Controltalk Now the HVAC and Smart Building Controls Video Cast. Starting her career in controls with Functional Devices, Sarah has worked her way up to becoming the president of Controls Group North America. Controls Group North America is a group of elite HVAC and Smart Buildings control distributors and progressive HVAC manufacturers. Sarah shares the skills needed to lead this group of accomplished individuals, plus the challenges of selling smart building controls in a highly competitive market. Be sure to tune in and join us as we discuss the latest trends, technology, and strategies in HVAC and Smart Building Controls with Sarah Monteleone. It’s sure to be an enlightening conversation! 

SUMMARY

This week, Control Talk Now is taking a look at leadership and the skills needed to lead a team of strong personalities without the ability to give raises or fire people. As an example, the host( Eric Stromquist) talks about his younger cousin who was on the fast track at a Fortune 100 company. He was given a billion-dollar project with aggressive and unrealistic goals, and he could not hire or fire anyone nor offer any type of monetary incentive. His success at this project was the ultimate test and it was both challenging and rewarding. The guest this week is someone who is creating great results under the same constraints in the HVAC and smart building controls industry.

The conversation discussed the importance of nonverbal communication in the communication process and the importance of timing in communication. Eric explained the technique of mirroring, which involves adopting the same postures and gestures as the person you are talking to, to create a meaningful connection. This technique can be used to establish rapport and as a timing mechanism called pacing and leading. Eric also suggested that if a conversation is going off the rails, one should shut up, cross their arms and mirror the other person until they follow the nonverbal lead. Eric also mentioned that they are considering offering a nonverbal communication training class and asked listeners to send an email to controltalknow@gmail.com if they are interested.

John Sublett, the former CTO of Tridium and current chair of the company was interviewed on Control Talk Now. John discussed the early days at Tritium and the lessons he learned along the way. He discussed how technology has changed and evolved since the company first began and how it has impacted the industry. He also discussed how the company has grown and how it has become an industry leader in the process. Sarah Montelione, the president of Cgna, was also featured in the episode. She discussed how Cgna has been supporting the industry as a whole and how they are redefining distribution. She also discussed the various benefits Cgna provides to its members and how they are helping to create real value for customers.

Sarah and the speaker have been friends for 25 years and have worked in the same industry for that time. Sarah is known for her skills in building relationships and making impressions, which the speaker noticed when they first met. Sarah began her journey in wholesale distribution when she completed an internship with a large industrial distributor after college and was offered a sales training program. This began her six-year journey with the company, and she has been working in the industry ever since. The speaker appreciates Sarah's skills and the impact she has had on the industry.

TIMESTAMPS

0:00:00 "Leading Without Fear or Money: A Discussion on Leadership with Eric Stranquist"

0:02:38 Nonverbal Communication Tips for Leaders: Mirroring, Pacing, and Leading

0:07:45 New Episode of Legacy Voices  with Eric's guest, John Sublett, CTO of Tritium and this weeks Controltalk Now Guest Sarah Montelione, President of CGNA

0:09:37 Conversation with Sarah, 25-Year Veteran of the Industrial Distribution Industry

0:11:29 Conversation with Sarah Ritman: From Functional Devices to Cgna

0:17:16 Conversation on Developing Relationships and Consensus with Customers and Employees

0:22:19 "Managing Employee Performance: A Conversation with Sarah Smith"

0:27:23 Heading: Benefits of Joining CGNA for Manufacturers

0:29:41 Interview with Sarah Montelone, Cgna Controls: Celebrating 40 Years of Success

HIGHLIGHTS

But I talked to a vendor recently, and they said, Sarah, we use Cgna to help us launch and sell our product, and fast forward 20 years. We are successful because of the member distributors and the services the organization provides. Okay? That is crazy if you think about that. So for vendors, even mature business vendors, products that have been out for 30 years, Eric, this, more than anybody is technology changes.. Okay? The industry changes. COVID changed things, right? Everything was going e-commerce for years. Guess what? Through COVID, this organization of stocking wholesalers survived and increased their business because they had inventory. And so these vendors, you want to partner with distributors that obviously buy your product, stock it, but also get it specified, support it, technically talk about it. There's absolutely a need for e-commerce.

You know what? First of all, we're celebrating 40 years this year. Congratulations to us. That is crazy, right? It's a major milestone, 40 years. The foundation of Cgna really is still intact. It's a distribution member-owned distribution network with that manufacturer piece and what's. So great. And again, I just joined in June, but I've been a vendor member for my entire career with Functional and Connect Air, who are still part of this organization and actually still selling more products. That's the greatest part.

I know that certain organizations have protocols regarding performance plans and sort of action items when maybe an employee is struggling with the job. But also you need to understand why their performance isn't up to par. It may be understanding, it might not be a situation where the employee is just not doing the job. There may be an issue with that employee doing that job. And it may be a home life situation.. It may be an understanding of the job responsibilities. So figure it out, be respectful, have an honest conversation, and be part of the solution.

There is a lot of mental discussion with myself before that, right? I get all of the emotion out of the way for the most part and really just stick with the facts. Eric right. It's pretty clear-cut today. Everybody's got job responsibilities, and everybody knows what their role is, right? So remove the emotion, be respectful, stick with the facts, and just talk about what the issue is. And I've always been a proponent of second chances, third chances, be part of the solution.

My role at Cgna is really not to transform or convert our members into people with a single thought, idea, direction, or feeling. What makes this group so special and powerful is I'm working with those different personalities, right? And people with different strengths and knowledge. It's the collective differences and collaboration that really provide the results in the direction of Cgna. Right. It's not one person.. So I love the fact that I'm working with a lot of personalities. My role is really listening, guiding, obtaining information, and sometimes refereeing this crowd, right? But ultimately just pulled their words together and put a plan together.

 

 


My guest on ControlTalk Now this week is Tom Joslin. Tom is one of the control pros with a newer smart building control vendor, 75F.

75F is a leading provider of building automation solutions that are designed to optimize energy consumption, improve indoor air quality, and enhance occupant comfort in commercial buildings. Using a vertically integrated and IoT-based wireless system, 75F's technology can analyze and control existing HVAC equipment and systems to achieve greater efficiency and cost savings. With sophisticated algorithms running in the cloud, the system can make micro-adjustments every 60 seconds to ensure optimal performance, and each customer site receives roughly 150,000 individual decisions each day. With a focus on sustainability, affordability, and customer satisfaction, 75F is revolutionizing the way businesses manage their buildings and reduce their carbon footprint.

In addition to my interview with Tom, I explain another nonverbal communication technique, mirroring. Mirroring is a subconscious behavior that is used to establish rapport and influence others. In essence, it involves adopting another person's posture, breathing patterns, and speed of speaking. Mirroring can help to build trust and strengthen relationships when used judiciously. I discuss how mirroring works in this episode.

Direct download: CTN_409_75F.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 5:06pm EST

My guest this week is an industry legend, Dennis Floro. Before becoming a consultant, Dennis took well know distributor Wilson Mohr from 8 million dollars a year in sales to over 100 million dollars.

In addition to teaching us about business strategy, Dennis shares 5 ttraits that great laeders have in common:

 

1) Great Leaders are Great Listeners

The best leaders understand the value of humble listening. They recognize the need to consider different perspectives before making decisions. A great leader is patient enough to listen and absorb information before responding; they will use input from others to make informed decisions moving forward. This type of communication builds trust with colleagues and helps create an open dialogue that empowers employees to be creative and innovative.

2) Set Measurable Goals

Successful leaders set measurable goals for themselves and their team members in order to stay informed about the operations of their business. Setting targets and tracking progress towards them, it helps keep everyone on track with what needs to be done and done well in order to reach those goals. This can also be used as a way for leaders to evaluate their own performance, as well as that of their staff members.

3) Understand Needs & How Best To Communicate With Them

Leaders must take the time to get to know both their staff members and customers on an individual basis in order to understand their needs better. Knowing how best to communicate with each person is critical in helping them feel valued while also meeting the company's objectives. Doing this allows leaders better leverage when communicating with team members or customers; they’ll come off as more knowledgeable because they have taken the time necessary for understanding their wants/needs better than anyone else could have done so easily!

4) Adapt Quickly & Re-evaluate Often

Great leaders understand that things change quickly in today’s world, which means they must be prepared to adapt quickly while also being willing to re-evaluate often so they can hold fresh perspectives on any situation or challenge. Remaining flexible with ideas or processes, it allows them more room for growth without sacrificing quality work or dedication from staff members who may become stagnant if left unchanged over long periods of time!

5) Humility Is Essential                                                                           

The ability of one person to lead hundreds is something truly remarkable - yet humility is essential if you want your leadership style to be respected by those you manage. Achieving greatness doesn't have anything at all to do with being boastful, rather it has everything to do with having the right attitude; understanding that employees should always come first no matter what other interests may arise during times of stress or success!  

Conclusion: Being an effective leader isn't easyβ€”it takes hard work, patience, and dedicationβ€”but it's worth it when you see your team thrive under your guidance! Building trust among colleagues while striving toward measurable goals sets up businesses for success while allowing them room to grow to even greater heights than ever imagined before! Taking the time to get to know staff/customers' needs helps build strong relationships within an organization while remaining humble is key to helping maintain respect between superiors/subordinates alike - these five qualities make up just some major elements great leadership embodies!  Making sure to apply these principles day-to-day basis will ensure you continue to grow as a leader in business at full potential reachable heights!  So if you're looking to become a great leader don't forget to look at yourself and ask β€œDo I embody these qualities?” If the answer is yes then go out there and show the world what made capable of doing!! Good luck on your journey to greatness!                                                                                        ​​

Direct download: 408_Dennis_Floro_on_Leading.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 1:45pm EST

In Episode 407 of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Buildings Podcast talk about using data analytics and AI as a way to make buildings smarter and more energy efficient which ultimately will help save the planet.

  • How data analytics and AI are revolutionizing smart buildings in 2023

    In the world of smart buildings, data analytics, and AI are changing the game. With advanced systems and sensors that collect and analyze data, buildings are becoming smarter, more efficient, and more sustainable. If you want to learn about the latest trends and innovations in smart building technology, we've got you covered.

    In 2023, the use of data analytics and AI is expected to become even more widespread in building management. By leveraging AI algorithms and machine learning, building systems can automatically adjust to changing conditions and optimize energy use. This means lower costs, improved environmental impact, and better overall building performance.

    So how exactly is this technology being used? For starters, smart building sensors can collect a wealth of data on things like temperature, humidity, occupancy, and energy use. This data can then be fed into an AI system, which can analyze patterns and trends to identify areas for improvement. For example, the system might notice that a certain area of the building is consistently too hot, and adjust the temperature accordingly.

    Another way AI is being used in smart buildings is through predictive maintenance. By analyzing data on equipment performance and usage, AI systems can predict when maintenance is needed and alert building managers before issues arise. This can save time and money by preventing downtime and extending the lifespan of the equipment.

    The possibilities for AI and data analytics in smart buildings are truly endless. Whether it's improving energy efficiency, reducing costs, or enhancing occupant comfort, this technology is changing the way we manage buildings. So if you want to stay ahead of the curve in the world of smart building technology, be sure to follow us for more updates and insights.

     
 

In Episode 406 of ControlTalk Now we break down the skills a new leader needs in order to lead a team or a company.


My guest this week is Rob Allen. Rob is running the day-to-day operations at my Company, Stromquist & Company.


Rob shares the challenges of leading a group of co-workers that have been in the industry longer than he has, and been working at Stromquist Longer than he has.


Rob’s story is inspiring and provides new leaders with great tips and reminders on the importance of building relationships, being open to feedback, and offering guidance without micromanaging.


He provides a few examples of how he has helped build team camaraderie and trust within the group, which has created an environment that encourages collaboration and learning. Rob also talks about the importance of setting goals, creating a vision, and staying consistent.
Get more at controltrends.com

Direct download: 406_CTN_Being_the_New_Leader.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 6:44pm EST

On Episode 405 of ControlTalk Now The HVAC and Smart Buildings Podcast we dive deep into AI and Virtual Reality and how savvy contractors and building maintenance departments are using these new tools to cut costs and save money. My guests this week are Scott Cochrane and Mike Mitchell from Cochrane Supply. Mike does a live demo, which you can see in this video, and shows us exactly how useful VR can be when installing or troubleshooting a system in a building. Scott and Mike also give us a breakdown of the 2023 Controls Con happening in April.

Direct download: CTN_405_Scott_Cochrane_Mike_Mitchell.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 8:20pm EST

No matter what industry you're in, selling can be a tough gig. But when you're selling complex technical products, it can be even tougher. That's where Joe Chandler comes in. Joe is the Vice President of Sales at Broudy Precision, a leading provider of HVAC and Smart Building Controls solutions. In his more than 20 years in the business, Joe has closed some of the biggest deals in the industryβ€”and he's here to share his secrets.

Find Your Niche 
The first step to becoming a successful technical salesperson is to find your niche. What are you passionate about? What do you know the most about? Once you've answered those questions, you can start to focus your efforts on selling products and solutions within that niche. Not only will this make it easier for you to sell, but you'll also be able to build up a reputation as an expert in your fieldβ€”which will make it easier to close deals.

Develop New Accounts 
Once you've found your niche, it's time to start developing new accounts. This can be done by attending trade shows and conferences, networking with potential customers and keeping an eye out for newsworthy projects that might need your products or services. And don't forget about social media! Platforms like LinkedIn are great for finding new leads and connecting with potential customers.

Grow Business with Existing Customers 
It's important to nurture your existing relationships as well as develop new ones. After all, it costs five times as much to acquire a new customer as it does to keep an existing one happy. So how do you keep your customers coming back for more? By providing them with excellent customer service, staying up-to-date on the latest industry trends, and offering them competitive pricingβ€”to name just a few things. Offer Time-Tested Tips and Strategies 
If you want to be successful in technical sales, you need to have a few tricks up your sleeve. And luckily for you, Joe Chandler is full of time-tested tips and strategies that can help you win more sales. Here are just a few of his favorites:

- Always be prepared: Before meeting with a prospective customer, make sure you're fully knowledgeable about their specific needs and requirements. The last thing you want is to be caught off guard during a meeting! 
- Be flexible: In the world of technical sales, things can change quicklyβ€”and you need to be able to adapt on the fly. Whether it's a change in the product specifications or a last-minute price increase from the manufacturer, being flexible will help you close more deals. 
- Stay organized: A well-organized salesperson is a successful salesperson. Make sure you have all of your ducks in a row before heading into meetings or making calls so that you can focus on closing the deal instead of scrambling around trying to find information. 

Conclusion: 
By following Joe Chandler's tips for success, you'll be well on your way to becoming a top technical salesperson in no time! So what are you waiting for? Start putting these tips into practice today and watch your business grow by leaps and bounds.

Direct download: CTN_404.Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 6:21pm EST

On this week's episode of ControlTalk Now The HVAC and Smart Building Controls Show I introduce Elwin Mckay Smith and Brian Collins from Op Systems Solutions. OPSys is based in New Zealand but ships its products all over the globe. I think you will enjoy what they have to say. In addition to my interview, I give you the Control News you need for the week ending Feb.19, 2023

Direct download: Episode_402.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 3:44pm EST

Join in as we celebrate episode 400 with one of the top executives in the industry, Martin Villeneuve, who spearheaded Distech’s triple-digit growth. Distech continues to lead the way with powerful innovations for its Systems Integrators and End-Users, and its commitment to develop the Community with education and recruitment initiatives.

ControlTrends thanks all the great people, organizations, companies, and vendors that have allowed us to reach our 400 episodes milestone and 3 million-plus views β€” from over 40 countries. It has been a fabulous and rewarding adventure thus far!

Direct download: Episode_400.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 11:54am EST

Bueno Systems CEO, Leon Wurfel joins us this week on Episode 399 of Controltalk Now The HVAC and Smart Buildings Video Cast. Leon helps us understand how having the right front-end Smart Building Controls interface can make buildings more efficient and profitable. Are you having a hard time finding qualified people to run and manage tour facilities? Leon will explain how having the right interface and the proper use of data can eliminate the need for more costly personal.


Ken Sinclair helps me break down the Smart Building and HVAC control news of the week.

Direct download: 398_ken_sinclair_Automated_Buildings.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 8:40pm EST

In Episode 397 of Controltalk Now the Smart Building Controls Videocast we dive deep into cybersecurity and today's smart buildings Cybersecurity pros Marc Peatock, Fred Gordy, and Derek Harp share the things the smart building control pro needs to know to make smart connected buildings safe from cyber attacks..

Direct download: 397_Cyber_Secure_Smart_Buildings.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:20pm EST

In Episode 396 of ControlTalk Now The Smart Buildings V. Cast we explore proven marketing concepts that can help the Smart Building Controls Community gain a strategic advantage. Our guest this week is Ken Christensen. Ken is the marketing professional's go-to resource. Ken is a disciple of Ted Turner and for over thirty years has helped clients like the Ritz-Carlton and Wells Real Estate Funds maximize opportunities through better marketing. This episode is a must for those who are looking to break away from their competitors.


Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair joins us on this week's episode to discuss the April issue of Automated Buildings and how we must adapt to the changes in smart buildings and smart building controls.

With over 50 years of success in the business, Ken Sinclair tells us that "agility with the ability to go around unmovable objects quickly proved to be a good life skill, and 'Adaptation' is our survival superpower."


Gina Elliott and Rachel Kennedy show how the Switch Automation platform can lower your building's carbon footprint, create benchmarking that works, and improve your brand. Crypto and blockchain coming to smart buildings? When? How? why?

Direct download: Switch_Automation.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 12:41am EST

On Episode 393 of Controltalk Now The Smart Building Controls Podcast we celebrate and discuss the great women in HVAC and Smart Building Controls.

Direct download: 393_The_Smart_women_of_Smart_Buildings.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 8:44pm EST

ControlTalk NOW TAKE OVER β€” Marc Petock, John Petze, and Brian Frank take over Episode 392!

Over the last 10 Years, community-driven Project Haystack has evolved, adding richer, more advanced data modeling that continues to merge the worlds of data scientists, deep domain experts, systems integrators, and contractors into a growing global ontology. The rewards are brilliant.

 

Direct download: CTN_392_Haystack_Take_Over.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 10:29pm EST

In the age of the COvid Panic, the only way to get people back into buildings is to make them safe and prove they are safe.  The proof is in the monitoring of key variables including temperature, humidity, airflow, occupancy, and in-door air quality. 

Micael Hadt from RLE Technologies joins us on this week's show to talk about using wifi and wireless as the most cost-effective way to monitor these critical data points.

Direct download: 391_Smart_Monitoring_for_Smart_Buildings.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:52pm EST

Ken and I break down the HVAC and Smart Building Control news of the week and trends we are tracking.

Direct download: _390_Smart_Building_Controls_Now.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 6:57pm EST

Ken Sinclair form Automated Buildings joins is to discuss 2021 smart Building Control Trends.

Direct download: CTN_389_ken_Sinclair.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 8:20pm EST

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair joins us this week on Controltalk Now as we discuss the Smart building Controls News of the Week. 

Direct download: 387_Smart_Buildings_with_Ken_Sinclair.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 10:43am EST

Lynxspring's Marc Petock joins us this week to discuss the trends in Smart Buildings

Direct download: 386_Smart_Buildings_with_Marc_Petock.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 10:43pm EST

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair joins us this week to help break down all the Smart Building and HVAC Control News of the week.

Direct download: 385_Automated_Buildings_Now.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 11:31pm EST

 
 
Direct download: 2338420Fredd20Gordy20.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 8:17am EST

Navigating Never, Never: β€œOur Transformation is deep inside where we said we would never, never, go; we all need more information and discussion to successfully navigate our new never. β€˜You are Never coming back once you transform.'” Ken Sinclair, editor, Automated Buildings

Direct download: 383_Automated_Buildings_Ken_Sinclair.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 8:47am EST

Great interview with Distech's JoΓ«l DΓ©sirΓ© and Laura-Jane Miginiac. Lots of good reasons why ECLYPSE Building Intelligence keeps getting better (Hint: AI Inside). Plus, more about my Personify Workplace, Healthy Dashboards, Infection Control, and Distech's enhanced Developer's Portal.

 

Direct download: 382_Distech.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:05am EST

Two great guests on this weeks show!

Warning! Do not miss our interview with Fred Gordy, Director of Cyber Security,  Intelligent Buildings. In the most informative discussion yet, Fred identifies four primary reasons why we have such an enormous cyber security problem: 35 years of complacency, the convenience- cost-savings combo, conversations sans the IT department, and vendor non-compliance. 

Because of the great visuals Fred is showing, you might want to go to controltrends.com and watch the video of this episode.

Angie Jarvis, veteran Sales Manager, Northeast US  & Canada for Functional Devices love her job! And, that’s why Angie is so successful at making Functional Devices one of the most respected and favorite vendors in the BAS business.  Listen in, as Angie introduces more of the Functional Devices team, and what’s next on the product road map.

Direct download: CTN_381_FredGordy.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:25am EST

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair joins us this week to discuss all the latest HVAC and Smart Building control news and trends.

Direct download: 380_Todays_Automated_Buildings.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:14am EST

Sensors that can sense when air is not safe is our topic on this weeks Episode of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Building Controls Podcast.

Conner Meloy and Barry Gordon from ACI introduce us to 4 new sensors that can make your building safer and help protect tenants   from COVID 19.


Digital Buildings' Mission: Support Google's urgent need to operate its very large, very heterogeneous portfolio in a scalable way. Brian Turner, CEO, Buildings IOT, and Ken Sinclair, Editor, Automated Buildings lead a brilliant discussion on what's next in the world of ontology, and the pressing need for a "semantically-expressive, easy-to-use configuration language -- complete with validation tools."

Direct download: 378_K.Sinclair.B.Turner.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:40am EST

Cyber Commissioning and Cyber Hygiene are explained by Intelligent Buildings' Dynamic Cyber Security Duo, Fred Gordy, and Michael Magee. Understand why Early Engagement, Trusted Partners, and Transparency are so CRITICAL!

This our second interview with Intelligent Buildings’ Fred Gordy and Michael Magee. For the first cybersecurity segment,  Click here. 

Direct download: CTN_377_Fred_Gordy.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 11:04am EST

Alper Üzmezler, Managing Director, BASSG, and Founder, Anka Labs, Inc., shares his journey and successes in the BAS industry from his early exploits -- to his most current passion, SandStar.

Direct download: CTN_376_Alper.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 10:36pm EST

Jamie Lee from Siemens joins us on the show this week. Jamie shows us how Siemens's new Desigo Software can make your buildings safer, smarter, and more efficient. See how to save energy, time, and money with the Siemens Desigo.

Direct download: CTN_375_Jamie_Lee.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 8:10am EST

Sam Sharma from Distech Controls and Ken Sinclair the owner editor of automatedbuildings.com join us this week to discuss smart building controls in the time of COVID 19

Direct download: CTN_373.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 2:31pm EST

Learn about a great, scalable small building controls solution, and hear from two industry cybersecurity experts on how to make your buildings safer.

Direct download: CTN_373_Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 12:59pm EST

Tridium's Therese Sullivan joins us this week and updates us on what Tridum is doing in the time of COVID 19. In addition, Therese offers her unique perspective on how the savvy smart building control pros can profit while helping mitigate the COVID 19 pandemic. As usual, great stuff from Therese!

Direct download: CTN_371_Therese_Sullivin.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 4:10pm EST

Our guest this week is one of the worlds best smart buildings master systems integrators. Hear what Stephen Johnson from McKennys has to say about the current state of have and smart building controls.

Direct download: 370_CTN_Featuring_S.Johnson.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 5:01pm EST

Covid 19 is creating new business opportunities for the savvy HVAC and Smart Buildings Control Pro. Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair is our guest this week and shares his unique insights on how to profit in times of crisis

Direct download: 369_Ken_Sinclair.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 12:07pm EST

Mahesh Nair is excited about Siemens’ new resilient seat butterfly valve design that offers life cycles of 300,000 repositions, 30, 000 strokes, and commercial actuators with 1.5 million repositions. Siemens has solved the three greatest butterfly valve pain points: high temperature performance, bubble-tight shutoff for 0% leakage, and on-time deliveries. Watch, and learn more!

Direct download: 368_Siemens_Butterfly_Valves.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:23am EST

ntelligent Buildings Fred Gordy the Director of Cyber Security and Rob Goss from Intelligent Buildings join us on Episode 367 of Controltalk Now the Smartt Buildings Video Cast. COVID 19 has not slowed down the need for improving building cybersecurity. Fred and Rob update you on what you need to do to make your buildings safe and cyber secure.

Direct download: 367_Fred_Gordy_Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 3:02pm EST

Ken Sinclair form Automated Buildings is our guest om Episode 366 of Controltallk Now the HVAC and Smart Buildings Video Cast and Podcast. ken offers his unique perspective on COVId 19 and how the informed HVAC Control Pro can profit by being part of the solution.

Direct download: CTN_366_Automated_Buildings_Ken_Sinclair.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 5:48pm EST

KMC Controls Tim Vogel joins us on Episode 365 of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Building Controls Podcast.

Tim shows us how the KMC Commander can help make buildings safer from COVID 19. The KMC Commander is a very easy and cost effective way to connect buildings, implement air flow strategies that help with COVID 19, and gather data that owners can use to protect themselves from COVID 19 related law suits. 

Direct download: 365_Tim_Vogel_and_the_KMC_Commander.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 5:07pm EST

In regards to the COVID-19 challenges, we have so much great technology that has not been deployed." Ron Zimmer, CABA President & CEO. Don't miss this fascinating interview with thought leader, industry expert, and ControlTrends Hall of Famer.​

Direct download: 364_Ron_Zimmer.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:18pm EST

On this week's episode of Control talk now, we talk with Scott Cochrane and Aaron Gorka. Scott is the president of Cochrane supply and engineering. Aaron is the chief innovation officer at aunt technologies. We discuss how using building airflow and airflow pressure can help reduce the spread of viruses like COVID 19.

Direct download: 363_Scott_Cochrane.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 5:35pm EST

See how using Bluepoint and life safety sensors can protect lives in buildings.

Direct download: CTN_362-MP3.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:59pm EST

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair is our guest this week. We discuss how HVAC and Smart Buildings will be changed from the Covid 19 Virus.

Direct download: Episode_361-MP3.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 10:32pm EST

Andy McMahon and Omar Tabba are veteran experts in the AI world. β€œWhen it comes to Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, BrainBox AI checks off all of the boxes, and really works.” In 6-8 weeks, Brainbox AI can deliver a closed-loop, Dynamic Predictive Control to your buildings.  This is a great opportunity for Niagara Community Partners.

Our second guest, Ruben George, from Siemens shows us the Building Operator. The Building Operator is easy and intuitive to set up.  The X300 Industrial Gateway talks BACnet IP and Modbus to discover BACnet Devices and provisions them on the cloud.  The Building Operator is ideally suited for the small to mid-size buildings; however, the solution is scalable larger buildings. Notifications, Dashboards, Trend Analysis, and FDD are functionalities soon to come.

Direct download: Epsiode_360-MP3.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:43pm EST

Lynxspring’s Marc Petock provides insight to the immediate impact that the COVID-19 pandemic is having on the Building Automation Industry and leads a frank discussion about the new facet of β€œsafe occupancy” confronting the Real Estate Industry.  There are many important opportunities in the challenging times ahead.  

Direct download: Episode_359-MP3.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 10:12pm EST

On Episode 358 of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Buildings Video Cast and Podcast we learn about a new product and process that makes Cybersecurity easier in Building automation Controls. Our guest is Steve Fey the CEO and Principal Partner at Totem. Totem is a commercial real estate (CRE) SaaS solution that automates the oversight of the #1 cause of cybersecurity events in building control systems: human behavior. Steve makes a very generous offer to our community so be sure to check it out.

Direct download: Episode_358_Steve_Fey.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 6:25pm EST

"Are our existing wired networked solutions at risk in the near future? Can wireless ways greatly enhance wired networks? The answer (to both questions) is "yes." Wireless network ways provide a future-proofed, AI-driven self-discovery schema with off-site ease of update for operating systems, collection devices, and sensors." Ken Sinclair, Editor, Automated Buildings.

Join Ken Sinclair. Kenny and me as we explore the new wireless revolution in Smart Buildings.

Direct download: Epiosde_357_ken_Sinclair.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:24pm EST

Direct download: Episode_356.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 11:21pm EST

On this weeks ControlTalk Now The HVAC and Smart Buildings Podcast we introduce you to two brilliant CEO's and their equally brilliant smart building controls solutions.

First, we discuss Facilio’s CRE3.0 and its agnostic platform that takes data-driven building operations to a new level of performance.  Now headquartered in NYC, Facilio offers Connected Building Portfolios, featuring coherent end-to-end  views on workflows and processes that optimize the  Tenant experience, Energy management, and Data-driven operations.

PassiveLogic has separated itself from the crowd of flagship controls vendors by combining empathetic design with rarefied technology. PassiveLogic has created a guided digital work site where all of the networking is self-contained.  Watch, as Troy Harvey takes us on a guided tour of PassiveLogic’s Innovation Controller β€” a BAS iPad that is extremely formidable in the hands of an expert; yet, equally powerful and promising to a young HVAC technician.


Chris brings the ControlTrends Community up-to-date with how Delta Controls uses technology to meet the expectations of multiple stakeholders within a building; how a smart building must adapt more rapidly to the effective utilization of the building; the 03 Sensor Hub and sensor fusion delivers a lot of connection points and their data to a Building Automation Systems.

Direct download: 353_Chris_Kwomg.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:03pm EST

Ed Merwin, Tridium’s Director of Strategic Business, has been a leading  force in the Building Automation Industry for over twenty years. Ed’s enthusiasm and excitement about the opportunistic state that our industry is in at the moment β€” is compelling. As Tridium prepares itself for the Niagara Summit 2020 in San Diego, next month, listen in and hear why Ed thinks this will the best and most diverse Summit event yet: Chip level AI, Cyber Security technologies, MQTT β€” the BACnet of the Cloud, and much more awaits NS2020 attendees.

Direct download: 353_Ed_Merwin.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 2:45pm EST

Listen as Terry Swope, the founder of Lynxspring, and Marc Petock, VP of sales at Lynxspring and Cyber security expert discuss the current economy and it's effect  on  the HVAC and Smart Building Controls Industry. Marc and Terry give you their unique perspectives on digital transformation and how the HVAC and Smart Building Controls Pro can profit from these new realities.

Direct download: 352_Terry_Swope_and_Marc_Petock.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 3:24pm EST

On Episode 351 of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Building Controls V.Cast we explore how to attract and improve talent in your HVAC or Smart Buildings Organization. Melissa Boutwell, the president of ASP ( Automation, Strategy, and Performance share her formidable knowledge about developing talent and improving performance in our Industry. Melissa.is brilliant and we are grateful for the insights she dropped on the show.
Direct download: 351_Melissa_Boutwell.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:47pm EST

Automated Buildings, Ken Sinclair joins us this week to discuss new trends in HVAC, BAS, and Smart Building Controls. What will 2020 and beyond offer in the way of challenges and opportunities for the HVAC and Smart Building Controls Pro? Listen to this episode and find out! 

Direct download: 350_New_Trends_in_HVAC_and_BAS_Controls.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 10:44am EST

On. this Episode of ControlTalk Now The HVAC and Smart Building Podcast Ken and I break down and discuss the winners of this year ControlTrends Awards Winners held last Sunday night in Orlando. Find out who is the best in HVAC and Smart Building Controls on this week's show.


In this week's episode, we talk with two of the most influential women in HVAC and Smart Building Controls. Honeywell's Barbara Cook and Melissa Cisewski. Barbara and Melissa give us an update on what Honeywell is up to in HVAC and Smart Building Controls. We also discuss the numerous award finalists Honeywell has in the upcoming Controltrends Awards.

Direct download: 348_Girl_Power_in_HVAC_V2.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:18pm EST

What makes a Great Leader in HVAC and Smart Building Controls?

We explore the answer to this question with two great leaders in HVAC and Smart Building Controls: Richard Campbell the CEO of Kele and Josh Felperin the national sales manager for Siemens.

These two great industry leaders share their knowledge and discuss not only leadership skills but also discuss Industry trends.

Great episode for anyone that wants to get an edge in HVAC and Smart Building Controls.

Get more Control News You can use at Controltrends.


What Makes Distech Controls So Great?

We find out on this weeks ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Building Controls Podcast. We talk to Distech Controls Scott Hamilton, and Eugene Mazo


Meet Dannah Hagerty, VP of Sales and Marketing for Entek, Inc., out of Atlanta, GA. Listen in as Dannah discusses some of the challenges and impediments to success. Dannah demonstrates quite convincingly, why she is a finalist for the 2019 ControlTrends Awards Woman of the Year.

Our second guest is Marc Petock. Marc is a very busy person: Chief Marketing & Communications Officer, Lynxspring; Project Haystack’s Executive Secretary; Contributing Editor to Automated Buildings; and Master of Ceremony at the ControlTrends Awards, and more!


FEATURED STORY

Episode 344 ControlTalk NOW features 2019 ControlTrends Awards finalist Roger Rebennack, CEO, Jackson Control, and Ken Sinclair, Editor, Automated Buildings

Direct download: _344_Ken_Sinclair.Roger__Rebennack.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 11:38pm EST

Nicole Conklin is now recognized as a BAS industry expert, though she started with Cochrane Supply some 20 years ago as a receptionist. Nicole quickly advanced to positions in purchasing, accounting, data management, marketing, Niagara technical support, to Manager of Product Marketing and Management. This is a must watch interview!

Controlco’s President, Chip Cummins,  shares his personal 20 year journey so far in the HVAC and BAS industry, as well as his present leadership role with Controlco.  Lots of genuine insight about the need to evolve and bring validated value to your customers, and the importance of mentorship.

The final voting has begun.  Click here to vote for your choice of the most innovative people, products, and solutions in our HVAC and Building Automation industries!

Direct download: 343_ControlTalk_Now.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 6:33am EST

Automated Buildings Ken Sinclair joins us this week on Controltalk Now The HVAC and Smart Buildings Video Cast. Ken shares his thoughts on 5G in Smart Buildings and offers other useful insights into the Control News of the Week

Direct download: 340_How_5G_Will_Change_Smart_Buildings.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:45pm EST

On Episode 339 of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Buildings Controls Podcast we introduce you to two people that are changing the way we look at HVAC and Smart Building Controls. The first is a systems integrator named Brian Marini. Brian's company Twisted Pair Automation is making huge inroads in using Smart Building Controls in unique, powerful ways. His approach and use of EASY IO controls are worth emulating. Our second guest, Jon Lester, has a podcast of his own, " Buildings of Tomorrow". As you will hear, he believes in delivering short, useful podcasts that educate the listener in the ever-changing world of building automation controls. Ken and I give you the rest of the HVAC and Smart Building Controls news of the week, including a discussion of Johnson Controls purchase of EASY IO.

Direct download: 339.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 7:26pm EST

New Trends in Smart Building Cybersecurity is the topic on Episode 338 Of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Building Controls podcast.
Anto Budiardjo, CEO at Padi.io and Facility IT Evangelist and Cybersecurity expert is my guest this week and gives us a unique, useful perspective on the State of Cyber Security in Smart Buildings.

Get all the Smart Buildings and HVAC Controls News of the week, from Ken Smyers and Eric Stromquist. Ken and Eric interview the great minds in Intelligent Buildings and give you  weekly Smart Building and HVAC Control News you can use. get more at controltrends.com
 
Smart Buildings, Intelligent Buildings, HVAC Controls, Control Trends, Honeywell, Johnson Controls, Distech, EASY IO, Siemens , DDC Controls, IOT Controls, Building Automation, Building Analytics, Energy dash boarding, sustainability
 
 
Eric Stromquist and Ken Smyers: HVAC and Smart Building Controls Experts
 
 
ControlTalk Now The Smart Buildings Podcast

Episode 337 of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Building Controls Podcast for the week ending Nov 3, 2019 features two special guests. The team from Next Generation, Aaron Gorka and Brent Burrows fill in for HVAC and Smart Building Control Pro, and co-host of ControlTalk Now the HVAC and Smart Building Controls Podcast.
Aaron and Brent bring their unique perspectives to HVAC and Smart Building Controls. Both are young superstars in HVAC and Smart Building Controls. Listen as they bring you the HVAC and Smart Building Controls News of the Week.
Look for Ken to return next week.

Direct download: 337_The_HVAC_and_Smart_Buildings_Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 5:03pm EST

Highrose's Leroy Walden join Ken and Eric to talk bout the HVAC and Smart Building Controls news of the week.

Leroy and Eric have been doing business in HVAC and Building Automation Controls since 1980. Ken, Eric and Leroy discuss the history of building automation controls past, present, and future. This is an episode you do not want to miss!

Direct download: 336_The_HVAC_and_Smart_Buildings_Podcast.mp3
Category:HVAC and Building Automation Controls -- posted at: 9:36pm EST

Two-step distribution: Past. Present. Future. John Donahue shares his 40 plus years of industry experience and insight with ControlTalk NOW


Episode 318: Eight Women Who are Rocking HVAC and Smart Building Controls
 
Our Industry is growing and older control pros are retiring. It is hard to find good talent. Women are stepping up to the plate and helping fill this gap.
 
We discuss the problem of finding good people with Ken Sinclair. Ken is the owner-editor of automatedbuildings.com.
 
The June issue features Eight of the top women in HVAC and Smart Building Controls.
 
Our eight superstars are:
 
Dannah Hagerty (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dannah-hagerty-7069b76), Vice President of Sales, ENTEK; Buford, GA (www.entek-inc.com)
 
Casey Crown (https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-crown-7b7b35132), Project Engineer, Sunbelt Controls; Anaheim, CA (www.sunbeltcontrols.com)
 
Dianne Fretz (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianne-fretz-0b173790), Vice President and General Manager, Trinity Automated Solutions; Bridgeville, PA (www.trinityas.com)
 
Irma Kemp (https://www.linkedin.com/in/irma-kemp-3197b86), Project Manager, Sunbelt Controls; Pleasanton, CA. (www.sunbeltcontrols.com)
 
Rhonda Statham (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonda-statham-58a61730), Business Development Manager, Lynxspring; Lee’s Summit, MO (www.lynxspring.com)
 
Erin DeFrieze (https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-defrieze-20044255), Application Engineer, Lynxspring; Lee’s Summit, MO (www.lynxspring.com)
 
Gina Elliott (https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-elliott-802384), Vice President Americas, EasyIO; Singapore (www.easyio.com)
 
Shellie Perreault (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shellieperreault), Foreman & BAS Commissioning Technician, Southwest Electrical Contracting Services; Converse, TX (www.swecs.com)
We discuss how they are helping change the HVAC and Smart Buildings Industry.
 
Other topics include:
 
Haystack Connect
 
EASYIO World conference
 
REALComm/Ibcon
 
A critical product update
 
Be sure to subscribe to the YouTube Channel and check us out daily at controltrends.com
 
 
 

CTN 308: ControlTalk NOW -- Smart Buildings VideoCast and PodCast for week ending Mar 24, 2019 features Young Gun Brent Burrows, a Systems Integrator with ENTEK, who explains Alarm Fatigue, and much more,  ENTEK provides HVAC, Building Automation and Energy Services  in the Atlanta, GA, area and throughout the continental United States, Puerto Rico, Alaska, Hawaii and Guam.

Are You ready?

Is Your AI Device Smarter than a six year old? Our transcription service, as you will see is not! I tried to correct as many errors as possible in the transcript of Episode 308, but could not get them all, so be kind as you read this:

Episode 308 ControlTalk Now The HVAC and Smart Buildings Podcast

Eric Stromquist: Do you suffer from alarm fatigue? Well four out of five facilities managers iand HVAC controls professionals do. So what exactly is this insidious disease and how can you cure it? Hi, I'm Eric Stromquist from controltrends.com and stromquist.com. And on this week's episode we're going to dive deep and into alarm fatigue and how you can solve it. Our guest this week is a young integrator out of Atlanta, Brent Burrows, he's a young gun. So Brent is going to be with us. The whole show is going to be fantastic. We get Brent's perspectives which are just absolutely stellar. So the other thing you need to know is that controlledtrends on our youtube channel, controlltrends smart buildings, youtube channel. We've started a new video series called HVAC tech school and it's designed specifically for the HVAC technician and we get into everything from how to size a valve to how to troubleshoot a gasregulator and topics specifically for the HVAC technician. So take a minute, subscribe to the Youtube Channel. All right, relax. Enjoy the show.

Eric Stromquist: Alright here we go. One, two, three. Welcome to ControlTalk Now, the Smart Buildings podcast for the week ending March 24 2019 this is episode this is the show where we talk about all things smart controls, HVAC controls and pretty much anything else we want to. And I tell you what, I've got two legends today. One is the one, you know, Ken Smyers, the man, the myth, the legend, the control man from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. And joining us today is a legend in his own right is ControlTrends Young Gun Brent Burrows, from Atlanta, Georgia. Brent is with Entek.. He's one of the rising stars in the controls industry. And if you were at the 2018 CONTROLTRENDS AWARDSawards, you know that Brent was inducted into The Young Guns class of 2019. So fellas, welcome to the show.

Eric Stromquist: Well thank you Eric. Yeah, you took away all my firepower I suppose to get some of that introduction on Brent Burrows. But uh, yeah, we got a real live young Gun here and uh, it, it, it's so good to see the right, it looks like the type of guy who's going to be taking our place one day. So he's, he's learning, he's got some great background. He's a true integrator, does everything from the programming side of it. And it was all about analytics, but he could do, you could do the terminations to make stuff work. So that's a welcome to the show Brent.

Brent Burrows: It's good to have it. And that's what they're talking about on the show every once in a while. I really appreciate it guys. And uh, yeah, actually the only real thing I have in my office, the Home Office here, uh, you know, I may have to make up some more awards for myself or some certifications.

Eric Stromquist: No, no young guns. Pretty much all you need man. And now you're 60 and a young gun or 65. I can send Claire and a young gun then you're doing really, really good. Okay. Brent man would move. You know, we're talking about young guns and may one of the wraps that the young guns, the millennials get his man, they just can't be on time. I know this year here, but tell us about our other guest where is he?

Brent Burrows: who else was supposed to be on the show with us. Uh, I, that's going to be my new cohost, Aaron Gorka. Ah, I'm not exactly sure where Aaron is now. Maybe they don't do daylight savings time in Canada or different things. He didn't, he didn't change his clock around.

Eric Stromquist: Right. Well, in fairness they are, and man, he has been traveled a lot here and Gorka from ANT technologies, one of the hardest young working guys in the industry. Uh, he is, uh, does the podcast, next generation innovation and brand. I guess the big news is you're going to be joined and Aaron as his cohost.

Brent Burrows: Yeah. Um, so, um, I had been reading some stuff lately and you know, I listened to you guys on a control talk now on iTunes and I'd always wanted to get into pocket casting and uh, and it just so happened I was featured on a, on an episode, um, a few months back and just really enjoyed it. I've worked with Aaron, we actually use aunt technologies, um, to do a track or project side. And uh, so me and him get along and you know, we vibe well. So I reached out to reach out to you and was like, Hey, what do you think this idea? And uh, and you were all for it gave Aaron a call. He was excited to have a cohost. So that's what we're going to be doing.

Eric Stromquist: Well, I can't wait for you guys to take to work together. Aarons just doing a fantastic job so far and it's kind of fun with the cohost, you know, so the, but if you're going to get good at this, you have to practice saying this right off the bat. The man, the myth, the legend, let me hear you say it because if something ever happens to me, you know, it's going to be between you and Aaron to step in. But Kenny is very picky about who gets to be his is to introduce them. So one time, Brent, you're on, here's your audition,

Brent Burrows: here's the audition, alright, we're on control. Taught now, you know, and in memory of the late, great. Eric, strong quick. No, he's in a better place now. But I am your new cohost and I am going to introduce the man, the myth, the legend

Ken Smyers: Ken Smyres take it over again. Right. That was awesome man. He passed it. He might, he might not even wait for me to die, man. He might just nice. Did you guys read the second brand? You just put no, he might. He might give me the boot right after the show did. That was a little too good bread, but well listen dude, before we get into more of the show, talks about what you do and, and in tech, I've known your dad for years and a, you guys have a fabulous company, but, but talk about about Entek and what you guys do.

Brent Burrows: Uh, so in tech where our ar can about a local, regional, regional and a national company, uh, have handled, you know, many national accounts over the years. Uh, so we have that side of the business and then we have more of our, uh, what I'd call our local and core business here in Atlanta. Um, we specialize in commercial office space. Um, but you know, also do, you know, hospitals, industrial work, really anything you need, um, we can provide the service and the expertise to work in those areas. So we do anything ranging from, you know, mechanical service, installation retrofits and then, you know, hopping into the controls, the building automation, you know, H Vac, lighting, integration, all of that stuff. And we even do system access controls everywhere. So in tech really is a great one stop shop to fill all your building needs.

Ken Smyers: Yeah. One of the things that I saw on the site and we'd talked offline, there is analytics and the impact we have one of our posts we'll be talking about here as we review the posts. So you're actually a delving into analytics now. Tell us about some of your experiences so far. What do you think? Is that, is that the next great a goldmine to dig into?

Brent Burrows: Well analytics, no, it's, it's been around, um, in, in the HVAC industry for, for a little while now. And it's kind of, you know, it's interesting, you'll go to these conferences or you know, you'll read stuff and you've got, you know, you got kinda these bud buzzwords or one of the big ones that are, and you know, when I kind of look at buzzwords, there are a lot of terms that people throw around, but then they'll just kind of throw it around and they don't know the meaning of it and they're just like, oh yeah, Iot and analytics and, uh, and you'll just see them, they pop up a lot of conferences, but, uh, but you know, really, uh, been seeing analytics get hammered for the last couple of years now. And basically, you know, one of the great things that you can kind of, they're doing in the industry now, you know, what, you know, everything being more standardized, like, you know, backnet lawn, um, you know, different protocols come then normalizing the data. And then a, you know, a huge one that I know you guys have talked a lot about and they got the big accounts coming up is haystack. Um, you know, basically being able to take all the data in your building, you know, sensor information, uh, whether it's, you know, discharge temps, she knows zone temps, uh, you know, all those things and you're building lighting levels, all this stuff and take it in and get that data. So you kind of get to that point with an integration and it's like, okay, well let's just say, you know, I got a 10 story building, uh, so, you know, got 10 air handlers, chiller plant, and then, you know, depending on the level of integration, let's say I've got 20,000 data points in my building, you know, what are you really doing with that? They're there are, they're acting out there and they're just doing their thing. But you know, unless you can hire somebody 24, seven to watch those sites and be like, oh, this is doing this, this is doing this. Um, it's, it's, it's hard to keep track of it. You kind of get into this, uh, you know, very responsive state. Um, you know, trying to manage the building. It's not forward thinking. It's not really effective. So analytics comes in and does, is it basically, it's like, you know, it is, it's, it's a 24, it's 24, seven program that looks at your building, looks at your data and can alert you to the issues going on. And then also in some cases make responsive writes back to correct issues.

Eric Stromquist: Well, that's well said. Well said. And then I think one of the things that Kenny has sort of picked up early on in, and you were talking about sky spark a little bit because that's what you're working with. But, uh, you know, for years back, even when your dad and I were doing this stuff, you know, those old guys, I mean you could always alarm, right? But it got to the point that he had so many alarms, just like my emails, you just become null and void to me just don't pay attention to anymore. So it seems like one of the things analytics allows you to do is to write rules, for example. So if something goes out of temperature for a while, you could give an expert at a time before it sends out an email or an alarm. You could also maybe we'd send a command to say, hey, try to reset it or whatever before you do that. And so are you finding that that's driving some of your customers interest into it or her? What sorts of things when, when they say analytics, like I said, it's a buzz word, but when they come to you or do they actually know what they want her, it's just, hey, I want an analytics package and you shouldn't have to talk him through it.

Brent Burrows: Uh, so it, it's interesting you were talking about, uh, my dad, uh, uh, actually met with him this week and he brought up some of the alarming going on from the 90s, and he was, uh, so, uh, I won't name them, but you know, big retail client, um, and they, you know, obviously they have sites all around the country and, uh, they had like a fax machine that sat on the side of this room and this thing continually like it reports and the, I think they actually set up a system where it just like fed into like a dumpster or shredded all it did for 24 hours a day. And they were like, he was like, what is that? There was like, oh, that's the, uh, that's the alarm matrix. Yeah, I remember those things. Yeah. Yeah. Uh, but you don't know the, to Eric's point, uh, I think, um, we've seen several, uh, programs now coming out like controls, condoms, coming up with Detroit with the Cochrane supply, Scott Cochran and his team put together this thing. Raven, where you could really, you could eliminate anything. You didn't want to hear all the chief, you know, and just, just get to the nuggets that you needed to know. And then they teamed that down so much that it would be in a proximity presentation. So top chef, chef get that right. We don't want people to think, okay, go ahead. I'm sorry, but God, we got that quick. I'm sorry I couldn't, I'm spit balling here too, but no, go ahead. Saving, saving, saving. Um, so the, the thing that Scott Cochran believed in is it Derek's point that we're so overwhelmed with this is data being pushed at us that we ignore it. Now again, we've always self defense mechanisms. We turn off our phones, we don't have to hear the pagan, you know, and then, but then you really could miss that one really important alarm because you're so, you know, unconditioned to respond to it. The uh, that stuff became packing. They had say, generate so much. I. Dot. Matrix printing stuff that no, he didn't shred but then that shredding to him went back, got recycled back in the, in the shipping department. But I'm so yeah, so a, the raven thing was a real clever a response. So that not only did you restrict the amount of alarms you got, but they were, they were sent specifically to who needed it and it reduced all that additional traffic.

Eric Stromquist: So yeah, Brent is a cool app if you haven't seen it. It actually works like with you know, notifications on your iPhone and stuff like that. So you can just set up just the notifications you want to see. So, uh, Scott Cochran's one clever dude and controls con's going to be a great conference and uh, we get, we actually have a discount code for that, don't we county. So we should do, if you put any controlled trends when you registered and put it in a controlled trends, you get a 10% discount and that you'll get 15 but I know it's just a matter of time for you blonder and it's going to cost you an alternate code, a code word. You get 20% off if you mentioned chafing cause that's right. So you are going to be a great cohosts. He's good. He's picking right up on this. Uh, but uh, but so what else? So the analytics, are these primarily the facilities managers asking for this or should it go on up higher? Cause I know you, you know, Dana and the rest of year or down to the rest of your sales staff deals at the c level suite a lot. Is it mainly being pushed down from the c level suite or consulting engineers asking for it? Or how is this even coming into consciousness? Well, it's a, it's interesting. So I'm going to go back real quick to the original question that you asked and mentioned something that, uh, you know, it Kinda all goes along with, uh, with the APP. You're talking about the raven, the alarms, and you mentioned that, you know, just kind of getting, you know, hounded with all this data. And it really does, you know, whether it's, you know, cause I'll, I'll copy myself on the emails most of the time for the alarms. And you know, sometimes it'll just, I think I went through this morning, there was a point that went in and out of alarm, I didn't delete like 600 emails.

Brent Burrows: You get into the point of getting alarm fatigue. So yeah. So in the process, let's just say that you have something that does, does alarm and you get, you know, over the course of three or four months, 600 emails, you're going to be like, oh no, just delete all those. Don't worry about that. And sandwiched in there and one or two of those. Yeah. What was important data. So that's why it's important, you know, when you're doing the integration is the freestyle. Yeah. Make sure you set up, you know, your alarms and your, so there are going to be alarms that happened, but you know, maybe just only send out, you know, prioritize with your alarm classes. Um, but, but then to get back to a, to what you're mentioning about what level do you kind of see the requests from analytics coming? Um, I think it really depends. Uh, so a lot of what we, uh, we deal with customers we deal with in the Atlanta market. Um, you know, we'll go into existing buildings and whether, you know, we're upgrading them from, you know, DDC from the 90s or just straight pneumatics and everything, uh, you just hit it. There are different levels of involvement from, you know, different companies and, you know, different positions. So, all right know, I've got to figure out what's going on and I cannot, I don't have the time to pour through this site and I don't want to, you know, pay a monitoring company, you know, just every, every month. Because you know what, that's great. You know, the, there were a few people that we followed around in Atlanta or would go to and there was like, oh yeah, we paid this company $2,000 a month. Just watch this. It's like, but it takes you six hours to get him on the phone. And then sometimes they do it, sometimes they don't. But they'll always let you know when that checks in the mail. The, um, the analytic thing, one of the big impulse or impacts was when Niagara JACE started coming with 25 free analytic points to get you a taste of it, you know, and then we started to see people dabble at it, but we really didn't have a whole lot of, uh, you know, takers. And then once they got into it, uh, so it all became, you know, a basically about templating it. But, uh, the Phil fearless fills Zito had a really nice, uh, extract on when he did a synopsis on end for about what he said that what they added to inform and to analytics too. Dot. Oh, was that make capabilities where the preexisting analytic data model it was in, it was inherent embedded a base algor algorithm library and then a realtime on premise analytic control. So one of the things that we saw now was that people, if they wanted to start to dabble, they got a good free tastes that, or a complimentary tastes of analytic points that they could take a couple of points and do exactly what you're saying. Pick out the top, maybe ones that you're getting those multiple alarms, you know, and then have it so that you could control the amount of alarms that you got from that point. So, uh, again it's, it's still, it's just touching the, uh, the, you know, the top of the iceberg because a sky founding of course was the, the industry leader. I mean they basically defined analytics to us. Well, no, it's cool. We can, I've got a question where I think we might have a new vocab word here and I wonder if you've heard of this before. No, no, no, no, no, no. Alarm fatigue has the first time I heard that if you heard the term alarm fatigue before, actually I have this, but I heard it said in that perspective, that context. But you're right, I mean, so I think Brent is coach and he's got his first new phrase, alarm fatigue. Okay. We're, we're going to give you a nickname or get you a tee shirt. It'd be Brent Burroughs alarm fatigue. So I did write that down though. So that's a great one brand. I like that a lot. So bread for our integrators out there who may be, have not gotten into analytics or you know, Skype specifically sky foundry, um, kind of walk them through. I mean, how difficult is it? Is it to get started with it because know there are a lot of integrators, outdated, heard of analytics and maybe you know, think they can do it or don't think they can do it, but what do they need to know? If you're just starting to scratch your ears, assistant center grader and you haven't worked with analytics, sort of walk them through it. Uh, so obviously, you know, um, like the sky spark, um, sky spark software, you know, like anything else, uh, to be able to sell it, you know, you have to get signed up with a distributor, all that. Um, so, you know, first need to find somebody that can not distribute it. And it's really important, you know, when you're kind of going into a new software, I believe this with anything, is to make sure that you've got a good support channel. Um, you know, like in between you and then, you know, and sky foundry, which I'll say for sky foundry, their online database of like help, documentation, everything. It's phenomenal. Um, I have used that a ton. It'll actually basically walk you through setting up site, uh, comes with a great demo site so you can look at how everything's set up and then, you know, reverse engineer. Cause you know, as a, as a systems integrator or you know, anything else, it's, it's similar. You know, it's, it's just like physically, you know, kinda like building an engine or something. How do you really figure out how an engine works? Well, take one apart and put it back together and you're going to have a good idea of what those components do, where they go and everything. Same thing applies to the software. So, uh, getting started there. Go ahead. Eric Stromquist: No, that's a good analogy. And you know, and I think that's where you're talking about the division of labor and, and the, and the support structure, you know, some of the, some of the great products. And so the great applications that have failed, uh, did so not because it wasn't a great application is because people didn't take to it well, they didn't have a support structure, he didn't have that engaging support that you're talking about. And some of these new people, new products and solutions we see coming in, especially in North America, you know, the, the contracting mentality as they wanted so they can understand it and they want to be able to do that physically create an analogy. So this is how you put it together and it's how you take apart and by the time you do that, you know, the steps are all procedural and the methodologies very consistent and then you get really good at it. I think the, the commitment, this guy foundry is significant, but once you get there, you've got it's money well spent and you just, it's a gold mine, right? Can, it will listen and Brent, this is a, that a, you're going to probably have to do with Aaron Gorka called stable datum, right? Because we, as we're assuming that our entire audience listening to the show right now understand what Skype boundary disguised park is. So Kenny, if you don't mind, would you just give our audience just a quick overview of what it is because I think people have heard of analytics, they've heard of data, but they may or may not have heard of skies park. Uh, if they don't listen on a regular basis. Kenny, let's give our audience a little stable datum on exactly what guys foundry isn't what sky's parks are.

Ken Smyers: All right. Well, you know, I would recommend everybody to Google or not Google, but to come to our website control to trends. And then just to take a look at John Patsy or look at sky found in there because we have multiple videos of John explaining it, what it is through interviews or whatever. But essentially the synopsis, The Sky Spark is an open analytic platform from sky foundry that automatically analyzes building data from sensors, automation systems, meters and other smart devices to provide useful building insights, sky spark insights, help facility managers, building owners and business managers identify trends, issues, faults, correlations. And opportunities for cost reductions and building improvements. Uh, and then also the, the, the growth of it. You know, so we were asking about, you know, who wants it and how is it implemented? And it comes from all different dimensions. It doesn't come from consistently the COO or the CTO or you know, a smart building owner. It comes from people that have problems that need them fix. So just give me an idea. There's more than 10,000 facilities around the globe that are using sky spark right now. They analyze buildings, data over 650 million square feet of buildings. Imagine that. Then they went over a billion. And by the way, that's further on, but commercial buildings, apartment buildings, apartment complexes, hotels, resorts, data centers, industrial facilities, educational campuses, government buildings, large multi-use retail spaces and other large complex facilities. But if you remember the one crazy thing about it is we start small with one building using the sky, spark and sky foundry or analytics, you know, because there'll be other versions of analytics. But in order to get to the smart cities, you've got to start small. It's a modular thing. So you'd go from one building building. Exactly. But this whole thing crescendos into a smart city where you're, everybody is getting that data there knowing that usages and aren't in and we're occupancies are they knowing when they have about, you know? Right, right. And I think, you know, again, John Petze used to be president of tritium, one of the brightest guys on the planet. Great Drummer too. Buddy rich has nothing on John Petze. But uh, you know, we only all went sky spark first came out or sky founder first came out. It was kind of cost prohibitive almost just simply because to connect the data points together really required somebody to go in and link this to this, to this, to this, to this. But that's all changed now. It's gotten super formed. Super, Super Price Competitive Kenny because of drum roll. HAYSTACK CONNECT. I tried to download, try new vocab words. I need another cup of coffee. That's a good one buddy. I know you want to do that. And Yeah, because again, we're trying to promote project haystack to the best of her abilities and really get the community excited about it. But I think we're getting other people excited about it. I think there's people that are learning outside of the HVC, bas industry that understand that haystack tagging. For instance, we had Samsung, uh, from, uh, the smart car. Don't trick me again here. Most of name again, can we need first and last name for try again? Go, go, go, go, go, go to the Control Trent website, highlight her name and then have Google pronounced that JMC futurist, right when, anyhow, she took the, the haystack tagging to heart and talk. It was an, you know, it's, it's just absolutely vital to eliminate all the friction and bring down to two. We're belongs as quickly as possible. There should be cooperative. You ready for an analogy? Haystack tagging is to sky foundry every other analytics or control system as gasoline is to a car. What do you, what do you think about how, how bad is like, you know, uh, I mean, you know, and not another analogy. I think one of the great things about having haystack, it's, it's basically this organization that says, yes, you know, hey guys, instead of re reinventing the wheel, here you go, we're going to give you the tools or instead of making all your own custom stuff, here's the tools to do it. You know, it'd be kind of like every kind of like, you know, I guess it's, you know, not using haystack tagging. I feel like doing your analytics to standardize it. It's kind of like going back to the, you know, Dark Ages or the prehistoric times of, you know, where you just have different tribes and they have like all their own forms of communication. Like, you know, I don't, most marriages, well, you know what I do, I think that's going to, that's going to work there because if you hear John pets he talking about, he actually gets mad, he'll, he'll start out real calm and mellow and hills. He'll start saying, but, uh, his patients in the industry I think is waning because it's a choice. And you know, again, a lot of people have, you know, big legacy investments and they've got, you know, look at corporations are run and, and they, they really truly have to control the rate of adoption and, and, and is it his money comes it. I mean we had the guy from Sweden tell us, you know, all these things could have been fixed many, many, many years ago if there wasn't a, you know, an economic reason not to do it. So brand have an economic reason to get them right. Now where I am, Brent needs to know this, cause I know your listener brown button it Kenny. This is the part of the show where we come up with are conspiracy theories. Okay. Okay. No, no, no, no, no. And I want to do something right now too. It's certain, Huh? Jam Fee. So that's not sued. Sud h a JMT j a m t h e. Dot. The Jaffe. Right. This Suda Hey, you know what I practice, come on. Say it. And you know what? I'm going to sit on this one because I, I haven't had a chance to write it down and sanded it out. But I think this is like a good idea for like a new bit.

Eric Stromquist: You should do Kenny Kenny's words a week and put a word down and then have them like phonetically sounded. I know Kenny. No, no, we got one of this when Kenny's word of the week. Shaef Chase, rub your face with a scarf or something and you scraped, I think he's in a different context today, which is like the data was shaved off of the sound. No, it was to do with the wheat and, and the other stuff. Boys in the shaft, not the shape. You're not going here. Let's get back to those two words are a little too close. Well, you know what I think so. I have a lot of those. So look at that. That's a good sign. That means that your brain's working. Okay, so let's get back to Brent. Meanwhile, back to Brent. So Brent, again speaking to integrators out there that maybe haven't taken the punch to do an analytics and his specific way sky founder, you sort of walk them through the steps, you know, they can call Ken or Eric, that should be your distributor., STROMQUIST.COM And after you get with your distributor, what happens next? So after you get with your distributor, uh, hopefully they can set you up on SKY FOUNDRY Um, so you can get into the resources you can access. Um, it's pretty cool once you get everything set up. Um, sky spark actually has a demo and all you have to do is just pretty much upload the demo and then you can go through all the steps, all the steps they give you online.

Brent Burrows: They give you like a five part, um, kind of do it yourself. Um, you know, set up the data points and you know, add the equipment, add the points, add the tags, go, go view the data and do everything. So you get practice, like kind of like we talked about putting something together. So you get practice doing that and then you start going, all right, I can see this, I can see how this will work. Uh, and then after you do that, you're going to want to go to one of the sky's spark, uh, analytics, uh, classes. Typically I think it's like a two or a three day class. Um, they get you all set up on there. After that you are going to be able to, uh, to sell the product and uh, and really do it. Um, and one of the cool things is, is basically, you know, if I had to like look at it and you know, just look at, you know, your customer set and figure out 10 rules, figure out 10 things that you want to look for. You know, the last thing you want to do is be like, oh, I got to come out with, you know, 500 something rules or I've got to figure out how much, you know, k w port per square foot. You know, when people, uh, you know, have a Dell computer or laptop in there, it's like, okay, just, just kind of back it off. Keep it simple to start, like one of the biggest ones, uh, that, that I see and you know, I see it around Atlanta a lot. You've got these, um, these old [inaudible] use that still have to use pneumatic a pneumatic actuators. So, and you'll see that and you'll see, you know, you'll use a DDC controller, goes to a, uh, goes to a transducer and then that sends the air pressure pneumatic actuator and you know, it, they've, they have it that way because the cost to retrofit one of those, as you know, it's like four hours and you know, maybe like a $340 part, you guys posted something a long time ago and I think strong Quist offered a retrofit part. It's for those, uh, to basically take that internal damper and then change it over to, you know, have an external, yeah, it was, it was trying, I wasn't sure if we were mentioning manufacturers or anything. So I remember that then. And we'll, you know, we saw a lot of that too. Yeah, that was a, that was an excellent demo and I'm very successful to do, to kind of move things on. I don't know. Hang on real quick. I can't, if you don't mind. There's one other thing I wanted to sort of bring around because Brent, I think it was brilliant. You know all the rules come up with 10 you can, you can come up with, so for example, for our property management people out there, you got building a and it is using 50,000 kw per month. You've got building B, it's using 25,000 kw month and you've got building c, which is just in 150,000 kw a month. Which one is most energy efficient? One uses the most energy. Well and you do that, that's easy. But you know, basically it, you can Kinda, you can organize the data because you know, what if one is a single story building, how many square foot, how many people are occupied. So you, and part of the reason I brought that up was you used the term earlier, which for our owners out there who might not think this was, I didn't think this way, it was explained to me part of what Brent's companies able to normalize your data because oddly enough, the small, the one with the least amount you spend the amount of money on might be the most energy efficient, the one that you're spending the most on because this maybe 10 times bigger might be your most energy efficient. So unless you can normalize it.

Eric Stromquist: And what I mean by normalizes taking random data points or data points, bringing them together and setting their criteria like square foot footage, occupancy times a number of people and that, so that's a big part of us gotta be one of the first ones that you guys would go for. I would take if you have multiple facilities. Right. So, um, so I'll go, I'll go back. It was just kind of that the brief example with the damper, and I know I was kind of explained some technical stuff on it, but it's, you know, like a real real simple rule is like, you know, and you can compare it, you know, how many VAVs PKI use, things like that. Kind of like you're talking about. But you know, the big ones that you can see, you know, a Vav is it open at 100% not satisfying the CFM.

Brent Burrows: So either we've got mechanical problem, we've got a design problem, you know, somewhere in the chain. And also the biggest thing, one of the things I see the most money wasted on, like with that particular style of box is this thing has electric heat strips in it. So electric heat, huge energy user. I mean just unbelievable. So it's got the heat going, right? Trying to satisfy the space and you've got a bad damper bladder and there that's not in 600 800 cfm through. So I'm simultaneously heating and cooling space. I'm basically dehumidifying your space when you get to pay for it. As long as this thing has occupied and you know, put that over a 15 story building and let that happen, you know, uh, on a cup on each floor. And just remember that the first real calm I become, and you've met right? You know, Smith and he said that, uh, their biggest, um, why I got this one. Can I do this one? Okay. You just cause I don't, I normally don't know much about, I do know this. So Brandon, Darryl Smith, random Microsoft campus back when Kenny and I first met him, and this is the best example of alarm first as rules base did I ever heard. And what Daryl was saying was a, this huge campus, huge, huge energy bills. They never got an alarm because the Microsoft campus was the most comfortable campus. You could be anywhere. All those buildings were comfortable. They put in a program similar to sky's bar and they realize the reason their energy was so high and the reason nobody complained about the temperature was that their heating and cooling ran at the same time to maintain temperature. They had no idea that was happening until they put the analytics package. And so then what happened, consequently, after that was, uh, you know, they fixed that problem. They started getting a lot of alarms and Bill Gates got mad at Darryl Smith. So there you have it. You have anything you want to add to that, Kenny? I'm sorry. No, no, no. It was, it was the whole thing we said to you, you know, some of the things that they were saying is the valve of the heating valve was clogged, blocked, open, you know, it wasn't Seton properties. So then it was leaving too much heat into the space and an air conditioning or the, you know, Viv is letting, calling in. So the bottom line was that you could have no, uh, alarms are no complaints that nobody's complained about the temperature of being too hot, too cold, but that's not necessarily a good thing. So what they started to analyze, uh, was if the state changes doesn't change over a certain period of time, that there's reason for concern, something that should be going up and down based on different, uh, the different, uh, aspects of the building, different times of day, different whatever. But nothing should stay the same. No temperatures and stayed 72 for longer than maybe like 60 minutes. And if it does, that'd be one of the rules we'd say somebody needs to look at it probably got, you know, something's going on there that you said requires some investigation. But um, I am, I'm a little bit concerned that we're, we're going to get the time, uh, isn't slip away so we should throw in some of these posts so that they get more friends. Comments on your bread.

Eric Stromquist: This is part of the audition here. Now we're going to go through some post of the week and you got to make it yet like really astute comments about them. Okay. I don't want to suppress them cause you know, you're, you're a systems integrator and you bring like a different perspective. Absolutely. Is this relevant to your world or not? You know, what's one posts you want to talk about? For now, we'll just go kind of lighthearted cause uh, you know, again, the two and you know, nuggets to take away into some of this has kind of superficial stuff with like the next post you want to talk about and get Brent's comments on is the, the new facility manager might be a robot. Uh, and how will artificial intelligence affect your building? We know from Ken Sinclair that artificial intelligence is common. It's a real thing, how quickly they adoption rate's going to be and whatever. Or is it happening with or without our knowledge? Uh, and he calls it automated, intelligent, not intelligence, artificial intelligence. So the question would ask you there is that you, do you think that artificial intelligence has a foothold already? Uh, w what's the adoption rate with your end of the world or your from your perspective? Um,

Brent Burrows: so, uh, in, in terms of, of running buildings right now where we're at and you know, Atlanta, Georgia, um, I haven't seen a whole lot of artificial intelligence in a, and the particulars particular areas where at, um, obviously that's the way am, I mean every, everything's moving that way, you know, whether we still really haven't seen a whole ton of, you know, a voice stuff come in to, you know, the building automation world. So I feel like you're going to see that come in and then you're going to see AI. But that's kind of the analytics thing too, is, you know, and we were talking about earlier, you know, it used to be you'd pay somebody to monitor this and they would watch it and now you have a computer that's doing it, you know, a, a program that that just looks at. It looks at rules, it compares the data, and then it gives you an outcome. So go ahead. So based on how you define artificial intelligence, in many cases, some of it's already there, it's just not called artificial intelligence. God was charging two grand a month to technical data. I mean he's already been replaced by a robot. Right. Which is a shame. That'd be a sweet deal. So Eric, uh, so I got it said Jan, Jan. Okay. Now, so the next, the Kenny, he's like, it's not jam. J A M is Shanthi. It's a softer version. Okay. So if we're doing artificial intelligence, let's take this thing to the next level. And we had this very intelligent futurist and she is the real McCoy. She is internationally, globally recognized for her, her understanding and divisions that are coming. You know what our world is going to look like in five 10 15 years. But she did this thing on smart buildings and powering smart buildings, smart cars and the whole idea of sustainable building, sustainable energy cars that are driving and they're basically collect the energy, putting in a battery. The car gets to the building that it works, it's parked at and plugs in and instead of the building powering the car up again, cars powering the building up in an emergency situation that you could really exploit this cause it's just moving energy. You know, cars are literally collect the energy and then moving them to where they needed nick actually plug into a building. Um, not, not that we're going to see this anytime soon, but what do you think that, uh, the Atlanta metropolitan area is that, is that kind of technology receptive? You see that? I know that a, with Eric, with your smart car, you're a customer, your test, the, one of your biggest issues at first was the charging stations. They could be busy, it might not be available, but you know, it was, it was trying that new technology. Does it fit, do you see us moving a year end of the world there, uh, Brent taking, adopting that kind of technology or is it kind of an out there kind of like, I dunno, I'm sure had you asked the question, you know, 20 or 30 years I had like, had you asked when maybe Eric and my dad were working together a little bit, like, you know, hey, where are you thinking we're going to be in 30 years with us in buildings? It's like snack. I'd be met that it's not going to matter. All our cars going to be flying around anyway. It's kind of local conceptions out there. Oh, we'll get to your point. I mean, I look at this thing every day and I'm all, I marvel over the iPhone every day because I just, I can't get over it. Cause my wife's German, she talks to her sister's like we're talking, you know, across the street. And it doesn't cost a dime. They used to be my third biggest expense. You know, we had mortgage, car and then phone. Right. Well, you know, Kenny, I had been on my, I'm like, rephrase the question a little bit because you know, I think the car was just sort of an example of the fact that you could use a battery to power building and Nissan actually did with their corporate headquarter and a suit. The JMT talks a lot about, uh, about the fact that you can now contribute to the grid and said you're just drawing off the grid. And I think a more Germane sort of, uh, uh, question might be do see a day where maybe

Ken Smyers: the batteries are powering the buildings. Um, yeah, I mean, you know, tech technology continues to evolve and to just things that you just never thought were possible. Kind of like, you know, like the analogy there of a, you know, thinking about a battery charging and building. I mean, you know, absolutely. It's possible. What, you know, what Ken just talked about, you know, with that right there, I'm sure you guys saw him back in the, uh, you know, maybe even the 80s, the early nineties. Like what are the first cell phones look like? Where did the first computers, they'll quite white mainframes hold clinic rooms and now this is more powerful than the first computer mainframe huge rooms that were created. I'm really glad you cleaned that up for me cause I'm not, hang on, hang on. I'm not done yet. I've got a Mike, my conspiracy theory and then you can come back to you Ken. So I have a conspiracy theory cat because Brent, you know, you guys hard Johnson controls is wanting the lines you handles was Honeywell on this tech Johnson controls is one of the largest car battery or manufacturers in the world. Okay. So you start thinking about that and then you put into the fact that Tesla developed something called the power wall, right in California. What that because you know, you could have the solar energy coming in but you pretty much had to use it or lose it. What the power wall, you were able to store it. Okay. So I think Johnson and Tesla are getting together right now. I think what's going to happen is you're going to have solar panels on the building. There's going to come down to some sort of a power wall that will hold the charge, that will charge the battery and then the battery will charge the building. Well Eric, to your point, I think, uh, I'm glad you did it cause I was thinking the same thing. We know that Johnson controls made a major investment and batteries. And one of the scenarios we saw Brent was really cool was that, you know, uh, with a DC AC wars mobile. Derek and I used to cover the Westinghouse versus Tesla and how, uh, it was a power station thing who could transmit the power of the further Stacy one but DC. Now it's coming back in. And many people were saying, why are we taking power, making it a scene and converting it back to DC inside of a building since every something inside of the buildings operating on DC. What about we put a big battery in the basement in, you know, some mechanical room or whatever and we power it up. And from there we power the entire building with 24 volts DC.

Ken Smyers: And then you have power over ethernet and we have all these really incredible ideas. But so to your point, and I agree with you 100%, it's not, it's just a matter of when we get the opportunity to deploy these technologies are here. It's just, it's in the economic constriction. It says the economic, you know, friction, you gotta, you gotta make money and people have to transition from one technology to the other. But it doesn't mean it's not going to have, it's just the question of when. Right. So I, you know, it's really interesting to about, um, you know, buildings doing that. Obviously it'd be much easier, you know, as with anything, um, you know, if you're building a brand new building to be able to Spec that stuff and then absorb it into the cost of, you know, of doing the building as opposed to looking at a building that has everything that has ac powered, whether, you know, lighting, HPAC equipment, you know, literally everything and being like, all right, we're going to rip all this stuff out and then we're going to put all of this and, and it's going to cost you, you know, x and whoever owns the building or she come managers of the building, it's like, no, we're not. It's a great point, Brent and know that my father in law lives in New Mexico, right? And they used to subsidize solar panels, but then the electric company, conspiracy theory started, you know, not making as much money so they don't subsidize any more. So now it's cost prohibitive to do it. But I tell you what, I think, uh, I want to get back to Ed Tech and your dad a little bit because your dad is when I got to be kidding me, your dad is one of the brightest businessmen know. And when your dad would say is, if you want to have heard him say this over the years, you want to paint it blue, I'll paint it blue. You want to back you on a battery power building, not give you a battery painted battery power building. Right. So, uh, uh, and I, and I think at the end of the day, it's, this is, you know, a lot of conjecture on our part. It's fun to talk about, but at the end of the day, uh, what's going to make the most sense for the owners is what they're going to do. Yeah. My favorite ones are listen to the Paul Oswald and listen to, uh, George Thomas from contemporary controls. The, these guys are the more senior faculty in our, in our industry and they say, you know, we keep talking about this absolutely wowed off the wall technology when we still don't fix belts and we still don't do it. Most primordial maintenance you need, uh, you know, and keeping the motors running and stuff like that. So I think what you have to do is you have to keep one foot on its tectonics. It's moving and shifting when it applied. Yeah. Plate tectonics. There we go. Brent and we still have a vocabulary from you yet. What have we done? We got it. Tig. Hold on. Protect. Yes. Right. I'm sorry I got circled them when you said that. I will give you credit when I like something that somebody says something cool, I write it down and at the end of it when we have to write the show notes up or whatever, I can run through all these little circles, nuggets there and alarm fatigue is circled. We're going to, we're going to take this thing into a macro level again, and we're going to shift gears and just security, cybersecurity. We're going to go into your version of cybersecurity. How often you bump into it, what does it, what does it scare you to death or you got to, you got a handle on it. What's, what's going on from your perspective?

Brent Burrows: Um, you know, cyber security, obviously you now have extremely important, I would say as important as, uh, eh, as anything you're, you're really doing in a building, you know, as long as you know you're not, when you're putting in controls, you're not just absolutely wrecking the equipment. What's the, the other thing, keeping, you know, unauthorized people from entering your site? Um, if you can isolate it. That, and that's the biggest thing was cybersecurity, uh, that I'm kind of saying, um, from our end is things need to be isolated. Um, so like you really do, you need to have like, you know, for your h Vac, building automation, security access, all that stuff. Um, like to isolate it if you can on, on separate networks. I mean, you know, you don't have to look far, uh, with different, you know, cybersecurity issues and large retailers, whether it's through, you know, the credit card scanners or you know, however these hackers get in to access, you know, a bunch of people's personal data at places. Like it's just kinda like, holy crap. I thought that was a very unimportant, this thing just turns the lights on, turns the lights off and now they've got access to, you know, social security numbers of all the data that we're keeping over here. So, um, there's some really cool products out there. I'm like, you know, one that y'all rep, uh, that, uh, yeah, that, that's it. I really liked that. Um, you want to talk about security like that is that, that is the deal. Um, the, the ease access is, you know, not as much like, you know, you can't just start grabbing a bunch of random devices and, and doing it. There's got to be a little bit more prep work, but you want to talk about secure and a and manage like dad is awesome. So it's not that expensive dye tee people. Cause I guess a part of the question would be are you running it up when you put a system or the it people now more concerned or they come, do you say you're going to try to what to my network or I know you guys work on a different sort of size building and stuff like that, but uh, yeah, uh, I actually had a meeting with a, with a 19 manager, um, just just recently within the last couple of weeks. And he was wanting to know like a, you know, what are you going to do or how does this need to be set up and everything like that. And uh, it's, it, it's a good conversation to be able to have with them in person. Like don't try and pass it off to someone else that isn't going to be working on the technical side because it's just that then things get misinterpreted and people get defensive. You're not putting this on my network and all this, you know, it turns into like a little peon contest when you don't need it. It's just, you know, a good conversation to have. And that's one of the things Tridium does a good job with is, you know, they have a, they've got it out there. I'm not sure what the most updated version is, but it's called the hardening guide, which, uh, um, basically goes through and it'll tell you how to most securely set up your system. And if you can go through that with an eye with, you know, manager or, or whoever, then everybody can be comfortable. All the data can all be out there. And then, you know, you make sure that you're putting in the most secure option. You know, so ironic you said that because I sent that to somebody this morning. Um, the issues were on the audit trails and about, you know, uh, who gets into the system and then when I have as the Niagara for hardening, it's from six 28, 2018. So I'm sure there's one, uh, more recent than that, but you're exactly right. It's, uh, I think it's a 48 page document. Let's see. Yeah. And it really goes deep dives into a 42 pages. So, um, but what we have, uh, for, for the controlled trans community is we have a responsibility to keep, keep cybersecurity as a concurrent trend is the top trend. We post the NIST released in ist and they give us, you know, the checklists and take people on an individual level and organizational level, uh, you know, a corporate level and then a city level.

Ken Smyers: So we have two posts that I just want to bring them up real quick. One is the, a Schneider electric has a cybersecurity, a Webinar you can sign up for and it has a, a lot of great information. And then two, for the people that are really in the business dot have deep, we have a smart and secure city, the community challenge expo and Washington DC July 10th and 12th. And it's about security. Cybersecurity on a, on a macro level. So, and ist the US Department of Homeland Security and sciences, the technology, are they basically the sponsors of it? It's a free registration is free, but you have to preregister it's required for attendance. You can't just walk in there online and we have a hot button to it. But so cybersecurity is, you're right. So Brent, Brent, you just hit three correct answers in a row. So we're going to over and cybersecurity is one. It's as important as anything else. We're, we're, we're, we're, we're, we're, we're working with now if we have to have a responsibility, we have to own that responsibility and learn about it. We don't necessarily have the solution for it, but we can be part of the solution or part of the problem. Well said. Well said. Well, listen, dude, uh, let's, let's talk about a couple more things. A couple of other vets and then we're probably going to need to hop off here. But, uh, where Brent, you gotta talk to your dad about this cause you want to go to this conference? Edi. Oh, easy. Easy. I know they call it easy time. What are the dates on these? Okay, you want to go to Amsterdam with this bra? Yes. Sounds great. Yes we do. It's, it's May 17th through the 19th, and it's going to be in Amsterdam and it's going to be an extraordinary event. We're taking the lid off this thing now because, uh, there's, um, the importance of it is growing. Uh, what ECI is doing is they're going to really walk us through the roadmap and they'd been the innovators. It'd probably been the strongest leading innovator company of all the recent companies for just the, the ability to get things done quickly. Put an FSL server size to controller inside of a regular, you know, fit the build of a, of a know basically a controller that it's core for core processors, quad core processors and, and, and it just sort of new paradigm as shaking all the other vendors in there. You're doing something incredible now. They're kind of, they were going to reduce it. They're going to get fs 20. So it's going to use smaller compact is you had the same from inability. It's just cost less money. And so they do the wireless thing. So they've got the FTO for coming out and all those things. Clever and amazing thing. Lim who in charge came up with some very, very interesting things.

Eric Stromquist: No, Kenny, you're, you're, you're so right about the technology. But listen, let's focus on the event itself because these guys know how to throw a party where up go to Europe. Okay. And write it off on your taxes. These guys, you'll learn stuff. But man, we've been to all the major soccer stadiums. I made these guys know how to throw a party. It is the best time you'll have. You'll learn a lot. You meet integrators from all around the world now Kenny, Brett and I are going to be there. Maybe Aaron Gorka even show up if he gets out of bed long enough to see what's going on here. But uh, but so that's going on. We've got that. We got real calm. Be Con coming up Kenny in Nashville, Tennessee and then we've got the Afore mentioned a HAYSTAK CONNECT. Hey look, get started. We got to start at the beginning here. We got national [inaudible] you got, what do you mean? We have to start at the beginning to see that much 26 this week we got a major event down in Baltimore. And anybody close to that, you go to it. It's one of the best, uh, you know, uh, in, in our, each department of the country and is great to network and get great training. Uh, it's start, just wait, we have controls con coming up May 2nd through the fourth up there in Detroit. And I'll tell you why that's another one. We have a discount code putting in control trends when you registered. Then we go to project haystack. Okay. May 17th and 18th. I'm sorry. No, no, no, no, no, no, no. May I have, we just had the post up so, uh, that's on the side. You can go to the site and check it out, but I'm just with my, my, my emphasis is on bang, Bang, Bang. But the, uh, it's gonna be uh, uh, a resort area too. That's extraordinary. Anyhow, you're right, it's at the Paradise Island, Paradise Island. And uh, it's May 13th through the 15th. I ride right before we go to go to Holland. But it last but not least, June 11th through the 14th real calm. I be con that's going to be in Nashville, Tennessee. And we also have a controls trans code coming from Jim Young and the, excuse me, Howard Berger and Lisa, which too. So we're excited about it because we're starting as a pivot point for this, this incredible information. Obviously people can't make it to all of them, but that's where you need to do your homework. If you're an integrator and you're learning about this stuff, uh, you know, you might want to go to a haystack because you can start using that template. If you're, you're into the integration and you want to work with the latest and greatest set of tools, do you need to get the easy Ios Global World Conference? You get the additional benefit of some travel and they do have a spectacular today program. Uh, and then if you're in the real estate business and you're servicing people that make the need to know how they can make a smarter, more intelligent, more connected building, then you need to go to real calm. So hang on. There's one more county. Hmm. Very well done. That was nicely done. Okay. Very succinct to the point. I love it. Now, if you need an integrator to put all this great technology and we know a pretty good one in Atlanta on name Entech Brett, tell us how people get hold of Edtech and, and some of the things you guys do,

Brent Burrows: uh, to get ahold of Entek.com. Uh, you know, go to our website, all the contact information, um, or call Eric and he'll get you over to us. Um, but, uh, but what we do is we try to offer, you know, an an all in one solution. You know, we'd like to thank you. Now we'll do a little bit of everything. What we'll do. Anything that you let us do, you know, Kinda like you said before, you want me to paint it green, I'll paint it green. Yeah. Um, so, uh, so, you know, we do a, the HPAC controls, uh, cardax card access, integrating those systems together. Uh, and then the mechanical HPAC, uh, you know, do all that systems analytics. Um, you know, we try and be, you know, either an all in one solution or if, you know, take one. No, extremely happy with your mechanical company. We'd love to do your controls, vice versa.

Eric Stromquist: Well, the other thing too, Brent and I want to bring up your dad and your company has and more national account work. So if you're a big box or even a little box retailer that has multiple locations across the United States, your dad's been doing that for the last 40 years with major accounts. So, you know, a lot of times people that they like assist and they want something put in and uh, uh, I'm going to tell us about your dad before we go. You'll like this canning, uh, all across the country. So you guys do national accounts as well and do a great job with that. So here's the story. How many of you know who doctor Laura is? I don't. Oh Gosh. He had to talk to her. She was like a battle ax. It's like, you know, you've got to be tough. You've got to do this and you, you know kind of like a doctor Phil on steroids, although Dr Phils Kinda cuter and she is but uh anyway your dad is doing a borders bookstore and doctor Laura is, they're doing a book signing and your dad's up on a ladder working, not working on the Vav box and all of a sudden he hears this voice, hey come over here and move these books and he kind of looks down and goes, who's doctor Laura or she's asking me to go do some stuff. So I just waved at her and went right back up and just anyone you ever get a chance to talk to branch dad had worlds, one of the funniest guys and then she wanted the best story tellers rent. Man, thank you so much for being on the show this week. Very excited about what you and Erin, you're going to come up with a herons. Episode seven is up on control, a controlled product. I'm going to see control controlled fence.com was a great episode and I guess starting at episode eight will probably be you and him working together. So excited about that and they controlled trans community is lucky to have you on board, so thank you for doing this. Yeah, absolutely. Thanks for having me looking forward. All right, so now, now I know you normally listen to the podcast so we got to practice this outro,

Ken Smyers: two more things real quick. I'm sorry this is part of the show. Okay, go ahead. Well anyhow, uh, we do have a shout out. We want to shout out to Bill Schafer. He commented on the Scott Cochrane, um, article that we posted in Scott's comments and the, you know, just to give you an idea of the flavor and the interesting inputs we get controlled transits that I've read Scott Cochrane's article on automated buildings. I've been involved in a couple of projects with temporary networks were necessary. So I found Stanford solution. Interesting. Your article left me with a couple of questions and thoughts about using Ip controllers versus MSTP controllers and how vendors in it departments handle them. And so we have, uh, an opportunity for we forward that to Scott for a response, but we invite all our control trans community to please, these are the kinds of conversations and dialogues we'd love to have because everybody benefits from it. You might get your own little answer. Uh, you know, you might get your own private answer or young interest answer, uh, responded to, but we all benefit from it. And then last but not least, I want to compliment Eric Strom quest, who's the most hardest working creative, innovative social media guy out there? Eric, he put up four youtube videos. Tell us, tell us about each one real quick. One minute or less on each one of them.

Eric Stromquist: Why? Can't really remember all. But as we said on the show last week, we get content up quicker on the youtube channel. So Brent, I don't know about you, but you know how long, a lot from youtube. So we get a lot of questions. Like, for example, we have one on, what's the difference between two way and three way valves, which a ghuy like you knows , but we created a video for that. Uh, and so we are going to be putting more and more HVAC TECH TRAING VIDEOS on our YOUTUBE CHANNEL. Youtube content up here. So please subscribe to the channel.

New Speaker: stromquist.com dmsconytrols.com ent

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