TCS Basys Controls - Where Buildings Connect with Business

Known as a leader and innovator in energy and control management, TCS has been producing simple, affordable, technologically advanced systems since 1983. We are committed to developing facility solutions that maximize value. We pride ourselves on the simple fact that you, the customer set our vision. We aim to provide more than a superior product line: we offer you broad based and expandable solutions that provide rapid financial return.

Monday, November 27, 2006

2007: What to look for from TCS in the coming year

As we begin to wind down 2006, a number of our customers have begun to ask, “What’s TCS going to come up with in 2007?” We have a lot exciting things in store for the coming year – I’ll give you an overview of a few of the highlights.

Wireless Network Communications

We are well into our Alpha-testing for our new wireless networking communications system, and should complete Beta tests by the end of January, 2007. I expect official release of our wireless solution by the end of March, 2007.

The TCS Basys Controls Wireless Solution will eliminate the need for network wiring, reduce installation costs, provide faster installations and speed up return-on-investment. Our wireless solution is a state-of-the-art mesh network that is fully compliant with ZigBee standard 802.15.4 and operates at 2.4gH frequency. All those fancy specifications translate into a highly reliable wireless system.

Besides new controllers with wireless capabilities, TCS is working on a backwards-compatible add-on device that will be able to convert stand-alone Superstats into a wireless network. That’s exciting news for companies who were not networked on original installation but are now ready to take the step into Ubiquity central control and monitoring.

You’ll be hearing more about our wireless solution in the next couple of months.

Ubiquity Management Reports

Most of our Ubiquity customers are already aware of the benefits of a remote software/central server approach to building management. But early in 2007, TCS will unleash the most powerful demonstration of the Ubiquity advantage. A suite of reports, encompassing building performance, operations and energy are in development and projected for Q1 release.

The Ubiquity reports will provide multi-building businesses like banks, retailers and restaurants with a level of information and management control never before possible.

Imagine being able to compare each site in your enterprise based on HVAC runtime, temperature set points, and dozens of other factors. Managers will be able to use these reports to pinpoint trouble sites and take corrective action to avoid energy waste and protect building assets.

For the reports, TCS has developed a unique Composite Rating System (CRS) that allows managers to obtain a snapshot of how each building, or group of buildings, is performing based on certain criteria. Managers will be able to set their own benchmarks, making the reports customizable for any enterprise.

Watch for details on the reports in early 2007. If you are an end user, I welcome your input on reports, and would be happy to give you some sample copies to get your feedback. If you're interested, give me a call at 800-288-9383 ext 430.

Commissioning and programming via PDA

With more and more technicians using PDAs, TCS Basys Controls is developing commissioning and programming software specifically for use on PDAs. Tentatively named “Ubiquity Mobile,” the software will allow users to program controllers and entire networks from their PDA. Watch for details on this program in early 2007.

Preferred Contractor Program

Our Preferred Contractor Program got off the ground in 2006, and we plan to start building on our early success by filling in locations without coverage and providing more benefits to members. If you aren’t aware of the Preferred Contractor Program, it gives member contractors several advantages including:

- First option to bid on national account installation work in their market area
- Reduced prices on TCS factory training
- Recognition as a TCS preferred contractor
- Sales promotions and contests
- Free listing on the TCS web site contractor search

If you’re not in the program and would like to be, call me at 800-288-9383 ext. 430.

TCS continues to grow and develop high quality, innovative products and services. Watch for these and other new developments in 2007.

Monday, November 20, 2006

November 13-15, 2006 Training Recap

It is an unseasonably warm Fall in Madison, while another great training session was held at the Inn on the Park. This is the fourth time around we held concurrent Basic and Advanced classes. I see us continuing to run the seminars this way for the foreseeable future. Both seminars are packed full of product updates, programming details, and live demonstrations. As a bonus, attendees got to experience a little "nice" weather as compared to the normal November temperatures.

In all our training sessions, we combine individualized experience with the TCS product line and a thorough introduction to our latest software solutions. All attendees learn through supervised instruction and personal "hands-on" experience how to handle routine tasks, as well as sophisticated programming through the Ubiquity Interface. This Fall's Basic session included several workshops (including applications, wiring and software), plus a complete tutorial on Ubiquity version 3. The Advanced session included an overview of Ubiquity version 3, advanced Ubiquity features/functions, and a thorough tutorial on our 2100 series controllers and corresponding HVAC sub-systems

Basic sessions included:
  • Controller Selection and Application
  • Network and Controller Wiring
  • Basic and Advanced Monitoring
  • Site and User Administration
  • Programming and Global Programming
  • Alarming and Global Alarming
Ubiquity version 3 highlights included:
  • Expanded User Administration Functions
  • Enhanced My Sites and Site Home Pages
  • Site Level Points and Advanced Graphing
  • Graphical Interface
  • Functional and HVAC Sub-systems
Advanced training included:
  • Overview of 2100 Series Controllers
  • Programming of 2100 Series Controllers
  • Advanced HVAC Sub-system Setup

Attendee Ratings on Training Topics (1=Worst 5=Best)

Topic ---- Avg. Rating
Basic Applications ---- 4.17
Basic Programming ---- 4.17
Basic Wiring ---- 4.50
Basic Revelation Professional ---- 4.33
Basic Ubiquity ---- 4.50
Advanced Controls ---- 4.13
Advanced Ubiquity ---- 4.25
Advanced Sales & Marketing ---- 3.75
Advanced Customer Forum ---- 3.71

Attendee Ratings on Training Accommodations (1=Worst 5=Best)

Accommodation ---- Avg. Rating
Accommodations ---- 4.36
Food / Entertainment ---- 4.50
Location of Seminar ---- 4.36

If you are interested in finding out about any upcoming training, refer to our calendar section or contact your TCS account manager.