Citation
(1998), "Avoiding interference", Facilities, Vol. 16 No. 1/2. https://doi.org/10.1108/f.1998.06916aab.004
Publisher
:Emerald Group Publishing Limited
Copyright © 1998, MCB UP Limited
Avoiding interference
Avoiding interference
Many commercial buildings have a network of microcomputer controllers a building management system (BMS). They control heating, ventilation, air-conditioning, lighting and other services, but are potentially susceptible to electrical interference.
Although interference causing the occasional loss of heating, for example, might be tolerable, a too frequent loss of service can cause higher energy costs and equipment damage, and can affect people's health, comfort and safety.
Interference can come from several sources both inside and outside the building HVAC and other electrical plant, IT equipment, fluorescent lamps, mobile phones, radio transmitters, lightning and so on. But taking appropriate precautions when installing the BMS can minimise the risk of interference.
BRE's new Digest is designed to complement emerging European electrical interference standards for electronic equipment, by focusing on the precautions that need to be taken when installing a BMS. It advises on those aspects of installation that should be considered:
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equipment location;
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power distribution and earthing;
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system cabling selection, segregation, routeing and earthing of power and signal cables;
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control panels design and construction;
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lightning protection;
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architectural screening.
Digest 424, Installing BMS to Meet Electromagnetic Compatibility Requirements, is available from CRC Ltd, 151 Rosebery Avenue, London EC1R 4QX. Tel: 0171 505 6622, £4.50 (plus 45p p&p).