Building Automation Systems

This course offers students an immersive exploration of smart building technologies, providing a comprehensive understanding of the vital role played by automation in modern facilities. This course serves as the foundation for unraveling the complexities of Building Automation Systems (BAS), encompassing environmental controls, life safety, security and maintenance functions.

This course provides an in-depth understanding of Building Automation Systems (BAS) with a focus on Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. Students learn the principles, components and applications of BAS in HVAC, covering topics such as control strategies, sensors, actuators and system integration. Practical exercises and case studies are used to reinforce learning.

Prerequisites: Complete HAC-101. - Must be taken either prior to or at the same time as this course.

Throughout this course, students explore essential components of Building Automation Systems (BAS). Topics include standard input/output wiring, interpreting engineering data sheets, product selection based on application and environmental factors and integrating temperature, humidity, pressure and flow devices into building systems. Safety is emphasized, covering life and equipment safety devices. Students become proficient in actuator terminology, wiring techniques, control valves, power supplies and transducers. Lighting terminology and controls are covered. The course provides insights into relays, contactors, motor controls, enclosures and power monitoring devices, fostering a deep understanding of BAS components. Upon completion, students have comprehensive knowledge and practical skills for real-world BAS applications.

Prerequisites: Complete HAC-101. - Must be completed prior to taking this course.

This course is a comprehensive course aligned with CompTIA's Network+ Certification covering modern networking which includes fundamentals, industry standards, open systems interconnection (OSI) model, IP protocol, signal transmission, media types and network topologies. The course aims to provide understanding of network hardware for effective operation and explores Building Automation System (BAS) networks, emphasizing protocols like BACnet, LonWorks, Niagara N4 and Modbus. The structure includes lectures and labs for a balanced learning environment with real-world scenarios and hands-on activities to apply theoretical knowledge practically.

Prerequisites: Complete CIT-115. - Must be completed prior to taking this course.

This course explores the fundamental principles of control theory and their practical application in Building Automation Systems (BAS). Students gain insights into control algorithms, feedback systems and the optimization of BAS for efficient building management. This course combines theoretical knowledge with hands-on exercises to equip students with the skills needed in the field of building automation.

Prerequisites: Complete HAC-101. - Must be completed prior to taking this course.

Building Automation Systems Practicum is a course that allows students to apply their knowledge of Building Automation Systems (BAS) in a practical, real-world setting as an employee. Through 150 hours of hands-on projects and supervised experiences, students develop and refine their skills in BAS design, installation, programming and troubleshooting.

Cooperative Education provides students with a working experience in their discipline and develops their ability to understand and perform appropriately in the dynamic work environment. To earn 4 credits, students must work a minimum of 200 hours; total number of co-op hours may be higher as defined by the department. In order to participate and enroll in Cooperative Education, students must meet the following criteria:

Prerequisites: Complete HAC-101. - Must be taken either prior to or at the same time as this course.

This course explores technical issues involved with computers and information technology. Students will be able to set up a basic workstation, conduct basic software installation, establish basic network connectivity, identify compatibility issues, identify/prevent basic security risks and demonstrate knowledge in the areas of safety and preventative maintenance of computers. This course prepares students considering a career in Information Technology (IT) or desiring a more detailed knowledge of IT fundamentals.

This course introduces students to the configuration, management and troubleshooting of wired and wireless network devices. Students learn about emerging technologies with respect to mobile, cloud and virtualization technologies. Topics include networking concepts, infrastructure, network operations, security and troubleshooting. Course objectives are consistent with many of those required for CompTIA Network+ certification.

Prerequisites: Complete CIT-115. - Must be completed prior to taking this course.

This course prepares students in the principles of electricity, wiring, electrical controls and motors as they relate to refrigeration, air conditioning and heating in residential and commercial settings. Emphasis is on electricity, electrical components and circuits.

Prerequisites: Complete HAC-120. - Must be taken either prior to or at the same time as this course.

This is a course in the application of computer programs to acquire and use heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVAC-R) technical information. Students explore computer terminology used in building control systems, access professional society articles, navigate manufacturer and wholesaler websites and locate parts information and product data specifications. Additional topics include storing, downloading, saving and printing information as well as job searching. This course is graded on a pass/fail basis.

Prerequisites: Complete HAC-101. - Must be taken either prior to or at the same time as this course.

Green building performance is related to energy usage. HVAC circuits and controls contribute to the efficient use of energy. In this course students explore the basic application of electric on/off control and electric proportional control before discussing proportional control through the application of pneumatics.

Prerequisites: Take 15 credits from subject HAC or departmental approval. - Must be completed prior to taking this course.