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Building Automation Systems Flashcards

7 cards from real HVAC practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. What is the purpose of a BAS 'global controller' or 'central plant optimizer'?

    Answer: Coordinate chiller, boiler, and cooling tower sequencing to minimize total plant energy

    A central plant optimizer coordinates multiple pieces of equipment to minimize total energy consumption while meeting load requirements.

  2. A BAS trend log shows supply air temperature consistently 3°F above setpoint. After confirming the setpoint is correct, what is the most likely issue?

    Answer: Sensor offset or calibration error

    A consistent offset between setpoint and measured value typically indicates a sensor calibration error or transmitter offset rather than a control logic problem.

  3. What does 'load shedding' mean in a BAS demand-limiting strategy?

    Answer: Temporarily reducing HVAC loads to prevent exceeding a peak demand threshold

    Load shedding strategically reduces non-critical HVAC loads when electrical demand approaches a utility-defined threshold to avoid demand charges.

  4. In BAS terminology, what is a 'soft point' or 'virtual point'?

    Answer: A calculated or logical data point that exists only in software, not tied to a physical input or output

    Virtual or soft points are software-calculated values derived from physical points, such as average zone temperature or total airflow.

  5. Which standard governs cybersecurity requirements for building automation and control network systems?

    Answer: NIST SP 800-82 and ASHRAE Guideline 13

    NIST SP 800-82 and ASHRAE Guideline 13 address cybersecurity best practices for industrial and building control network systems.

  6. What is the function of an 'interlock' in a BAS sequence of operations?

    Answer: A logical condition that prevents equipment from operating unless a prerequisite condition is satisfied

    Interlocks are software or hardware conditions that prevent unsafe or inefficient operation, such as requiring the supply fan to run before opening the outdoor air damper.

  7. In a BAS, what is 'trend logging' primarily used for?

    Answer: Recording time-stamped historical data from points for analysis and diagnostics

    Trend logging records time-stamped values from sensors and control outputs, enabling historical analysis, fault diagnostics, and energy auditing.