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Jon Vietti, creator of iConnect Training’s Building Automation Systems (BAS) simulators and curriculum, answers all of your questions about BAS controllers.
A Little Background on Jon
About eight years ago, Jon transitioned to more of a technician training role after being in the controls industry for many years. In this new position, he needed a packaged solution for BAS controllers, but he wasn’t able to really find an organization doing any kind of training or curriculum for building automation controls. While he found vendors that offered educational PLCs which are similar, he determined there was a real need for actual BAS training systems as there are enough differences between the two. However, there wasn’t anything out there, so Jon spent around two years creating simulators and curriculum that would provide students with hands-on experience using building automation controls.
Who Would Benefit from a Building Automation Systems (BAS) Trainer?
There are a number of primary educational institutions that would benefit from these trainers including trade schools, community colleges, union and non-union apprenticeships, businesses with in-house training like mechanical engineering firms and control contractors, and even some high schools with vocational programs.
Are There Any Prerequisites for Students Prior to Taking These Classes?
An introductory Level 1 course is the initial course offered with these simulators. If a prerequisite is required, then it would be some basic HVAC/R understanding, base electricity and web browser access.
Are the BAS Trainers Open Architecture or Proprietary to the System?
While some of the controls manufacturers are properitiery and require a specific license, these BAS simulators were intentionally developed for open-licensed and non-proprietary controllers. Whether it is a specific manufacturer or open system, most of the theory transfers directly over. In the end, we determined it was much better to go with a non-licensed, open system.
How Is the Curriculum Presented in Class?
This curriculum can be both self-led or instructor-led depending on the need of your HVAC/R educational institution.
Can Multiple Students Work on These Training Units at the Same Time?
Yes, these BAS simulators can have at least two students working on it simultaneously either with one computer or two separate computers. However, it’s recommended that no more than two students use the simulators at once as the dynamics of that occur when you have three students working on one system at a time is not always optimal.
Can iConnect Training’s BAS Simulators Be Purchased Individually?
Yes, they are actually designed to be purchased individually. In fact, three of the simulators’ courses are practically identical. To better meet the needs of the various instructional programs, iConnect Training developed three separate options. Some instructors want students to wire units while others want them pre-wired. Some want additional inputs and outputs while others are on a budget.
Do These Units Need an Internet Connection to Work?
No, it does not require an internet connection, but the controller’s main access point is web enabled. While you do use your web browser, you’re actually directly tied to the trainer itself which doesn’t require active internet connection.
Enhance Your HVAC/R Educational Program with BAS Simulators and Curriculum from iConnect Training
Want more out of your training with the latest in HVAC/R training units? iConnect Training has various educational Building Automation Systems simulators that provide hands-on learning to your students. Check out their comprehensive line of products here. Contact iConnect Training today at 716-699-2031!
Link to the YouTube video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27cSkEV_KIY