British Columbia Buildings Corporation (BCBC)
BCBC has published a complete online version of its Client Comfort Software Systems Design Manual, This document is intended to assist and instruct designers who are specifying computerized building controls.

Direct Digital Control (DDC) Online

Visit DDC-Online for unbiased information on Direct Digital Controls (DDC) and a searchable guide to DDC manufacturers.

Direct Digital Control (DDC) of today's building energy management systems can improve operations and energy efficiency. DDC control consists of microprocessor-based controllers in which software performs the control logic. DDC systems can be complex and proprietary, and choosing among the various manfucuaturers can be daunting.

The Iowa Energy Center in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Energy has developed the Direct Digital Control (DOC) online website to help building owners and consulting engineers in the specification process.

The site features:

• a basic introduction to DDC and the terms used in the industry
• a detailed but easily comparable listing of DDC system architectures, hardware components, and software from the prominent national manufacturers
• a detailed publication on input and output processes of DDC systems

Energy Management Systems: A Practical Guide

This document was prepared for U.S. EPA by Portland Energy Conservation Inc. Currently it is not available over the Internet. Printed copies can be ordered from PECI by phone, mail, or e-mail. Contact:

Library of System Control Strategies

This application guide, published by the UK-based Building Services Research and Information Association (BSRIA), provides an independent reference document for specifying, developing, or configuring HVAC plant control strategies. The full document can be purchased from BSIRA.