- April 09, 2009
April 9, 2009, American Auto-Matrix (AAM) introduced AspectFT open web-enabled area controller for Building Automation. AspectFT (Facilitating Technology) comes in versions for various sized projects from a small building stand-alone solution to an Enterprise version for large scale building applications.Utilizing a Linux operating system, AspectFT uses a Java foundation to accomplish a number of building operation routines and control algorithms. Through utilization of this Facilitating Technology users can communicate to their BAS system through protocols such as BACnet IP and MS/TP, Modbus IP and RTU, and the American Auto-Matrix PUP protocol.The product has significant competitive advantages compared to other solutions available in the market today. 1) AspectFT can integrate to other systems using an open MySQL approach. This is a read/write driver that allows the BAS system to make decisions based on data written by a separate system (i.e. access control, etc.) to a MySQL database. 2) End-users can use one of over 45 programs that utilize the iCalendar protocol as a scheduling tool. This means using programs like Outlook 2007, Google Calendar, or Apple’s iCal to change schedules in a building. 3) The product has available canned components that installers can use right out of the box. 4) Web services data, such as weather reporting can be utilized to help predict energy load. 5) AspectFT is a true Java foundation, meaning there is no need to attend special classes provided by the manufacturer to learn how to program custom functionality.Engineering of the area controller is accomplished through Aspect Studio, a graphical, block based, visual programming environment that allows for the creation of a project on a Windows-based PC. The software also includes a simulation environment where projects can be tested before being deployed to the device, thereby minimizing startup or runtime issues that could occur in the field.