Book excerpt: This new book, by the original developer of the BACnet standards, explains how BACnet's protocols manage all basic building functions in a seamless, integrated way. BACnet is a data communication protocol for building automation and control systems, developed within ASHRAE in cooperation with ANSI and the ISO. This book explains how BACnet works with all major control systems--including those made by Honeywell, Siemens, and Johnson Controls--to manage everything from heating to ventilation to lighting to fire control and alarm systems. BACnet is used today throughout the world for commercial and institutional buildings with complex mechanical and electrical systems. Contractors, architects, building systems engineers, and facilities managers must all be cognizant of BACnet and its applications. With a real 'seat at the table,' you'll find it easier to understand the intent and use of each of the data sharing techniques, controller requirements, and opportunities for interoperability between different manufacturers' controllers and systems. Highlights include: * A review of the history of BACnet and its essential features, including the object model, data links, network technologies, and BACnet system configurations; * Comprehensive coverage of services including object access, file access, remote device management, and BACnet-2012's new alarm and event capabilities; * Insight into future directions for BACnet, including wireless networking, network security, the use of IPv6, extensions for lifts and escalators, and a new set of BACnet Web Services; * Extensive reference appendices for all objects and services; and * Acronyms and abbreviations