Siemens Insight 3 - 10

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The document appears to be a user guide for Insight 3.10 software from Siemens Building Technologies. It provides information on operating the software and defines many technical terms related to building automation systems.

The document is a user guide for Insight 3.10 software, which is a building automation system software from Siemens Building Technologies. It provides instructions for operating the software.

Some of the key terms defined in the glossary include things like analog points, digital points, field panel, firmware, point value, trending, and user accounts.

Insight

Revision 3.10

User Guide s
.
Insight® 3.10

User Guide
Rev. 14, May, 2009
Insight® 3.10

User Guide
Rev. 14, May, 2009
Rev. 14, May, 2009
Notice
Document information is subject to change without notice and should not be construed as a
commitment by Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. Companies, names, and various data used
in examples are fictitious unless otherwise noted. No part of this document may be reproduced or
transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, for any purpose, without the
express written permission of Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.
All software described in this document is furnished under a license and may be used or copied
only in accordance with the terms of such license.
For further information, contact your nearest Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. representative.
Copyright 2009 by Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.

Credits
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To the Reader

Your feedback is important to us. If you have comments about this document, please send them
to [email protected]

Country of Origin: US

Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


END USER LICENSE AGREEMENT
IMPORTANT--READ CAREFULLY: This End-User License Agreement ("EULA") is a legal agreement between you and Siemens
Building Technologies, Inc. from which you obtained limited nonexclusive rights to use the INSIGHT® Operating Software Product.
By installing, receiving, implementing or otherwise using the Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. INSIGHT Operating Software
Product, you agree to be bound by the terms of this EULA. If you do not agree with the terms, Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. is
unwilling to license the INSIGHT Operating Software Product to you. In such event, you should promptly contact Siemens Building
Technologies, Inc. for instructions on return of the INSIGHT Operating Software Product.
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. provides this INSIGHT Operating Software Product and licenses its use by the terms herein.
You assume responsibility for the selection of the INSIGHT Operating Software Product to achieve your intended results.
GRANT OF LICENSE.

• If the INSIGHT Operating Software Product was obtained by you for use on a single machine, then you may only install
the INSIGHT Operating Software Product on a single machine at any one time.
• If you obtained functionalities from Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. that permit networked use of the INSIGHT
Operating Software Product, you may copy and distribute the INSIGHT Operating Software Product over an internal
network for use, at any one time, by the number of active concurrent users for which you obtained an EULA.
• You may make a copy of the INSIGHT Operating Software Product in object form for backup purposes in support of your
use of the INSIGHT Operating Software Product.
• You may not sublicense, assign or transfer the EULA or the INSIGHT Operating Software Product. Any attempt to
sublicense, assign or transfer any of the rights, duties or obligations hereunder is void.
• YOU MAY NOT OTHERWISE COPY, DISTRIBUTE OR TRANSFER THE INSIGHT OPERATING SOFTWARE
PRODUCT.
• IF YOU TRANSFER POSSESSION OF ANY COMPLETE COPY OR PORTION OF THE INSIGHT OPERATING
SOFTWARE PRODUCT TO ANOTHER PARTY, WITHOUT THE EXPRESS WRITTEN CONSENT OF SIEMENS
BUILDING TECHNOLOGIES, INC, YOUR LICENSE IS AUTOMATICALLY TERMINATED. YOU RECOGNIZE
THAT SUCH TERMINATION IS NOT A COMPLETE REMEDY AND SIEMENS BUILDING TECHNOLOGIES,
INC. IS ENTITLED TO SEEK FURTHER RELIEF SHOULD YOU VIOLATE THIS EULA.
REVERSE ENGINEERING, DISASSEMBLY
You are prohibited from reverse engineering, disassembling, decompiling, or decoding the object code provided to you, or otherwise
translating the object code for the INSIGHT Operating Software Product, or permitting any third party to do the same. You recognize
that your rights to use the INSIGHT Operating Software are strictly limited to use of the code in the object form as provided to you by
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. pursuant to this EULA.
TERM.
The EULA is effective until terminated. You may terminate it at any time by destroying the INSIGHT Operating Software Product
together with all copies in any form. It will also terminate upon conditions set forth elsewhere in the EULA or if you fail to comply
with any term or condition of this EULA. You agree upon such termination to destroy the INSIGHT Operating Software Product
together with all copies.
LIMITED WARRANTY.
THE INSIGHT OPERATING SOFTWARE PRODUCT IS PROVIDED "AS IS" WITHOUT WARRANTY OF ANY KIND,
EITHER EXPRESSED OR IMPLIED, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO THE IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF
MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE. THE ENTIRE RISK AS TO THE QUALITY AND
PERFORMANCE OF THE INSIGHT OPERATING SOFTWARE PRODUCT IS WITH YOU. SHOULD THE INSIGHT
OPERATING SOFTWARE PRODUCT PROVE DEFECTIVE, YOU ASSUME THE ENTIRE COST OF ALL NECESSARY
SERVICING, REPAIR OR CORRECTION.
Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. does not warrant the functions contained in the INSIGHT Operating Software Product will meet
your requirements or that the operation of the INSIGHT Operating Software Product will be uninterrupted or error free.
However, Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. warrants the media on which the INSIGHT Operating Software Product is furnished to
be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use for a period of ninety days from the date of shipment.

Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


Table of Contents

Table of Contents........................................................................................................................ 1

Introduction ................................................................................................................................. 3
What is Insight?...................................................................................................................................... 3

Insight Applications.................................................................................................................... 4
Insight Main Menu ................................................................................................................................. 4
Alarm Issue Management (AIM) ........................................................................................................... 6
Alarm Issue Management Process Overview .................................................................................. 6
Alarm Issue Management (AIM) Editor ................................................................................................ 8
Alarm Management ................................................................................................................................ 8
About Point Alarms ......................................................................................................................... 8
Types of Point Alarm Management ................................................................................................. 9
About Alarm Notification ................................................................................................................ 9
Alarm Status ........................................................................................................................................... 9
Attribute Duplicator ............................................................................................................................. 10
Commander .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Communications Monitor..................................................................................................................... 11
Communications Failure................................................................................................................ 12
Communications Restored ............................................................................................................. 12
Compliance Support Option ................................................................................................................. 12
Database Transfer................................................................................................................................. 13
Uploading and Downloading ......................................................................................................... 13
Backing up and Restoring.............................................................................................................. 13
Dynamic Plotter.................................................................................................................................... 13
Event Builder........................................................................................................................................ 14
Global Commander .............................................................................................................................. 14
Graphics................................................................................................................................................ 14
Object Selector ..................................................................................................................................... 16
Point Details ......................................................................................................................................... 16
Point Editor........................................................................................................................................... 17
Point Group Editor ............................................................................................................................... 17
Point Summary Report ......................................................................................................................... 18
Program Editor ..................................................................................................................................... 18
Remote Notification ............................................................................................................................. 19
How Remote Notification Works .................................................................................................. 20

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Table of Contents Insight User Guide

Report Builder/Viewer ......................................................................................................................... 20


Scheduler .............................................................................................................................................. 21
System Activity Log............................................................................................................................. 22
System Profile ...................................................................................................................................... 22
When to Use System Profile .......................................................................................................... 23
BACnet Object Browser ................................................................................................................ 23
Time of Day (TOD).............................................................................................................................. 24
Trend Definition Editor ........................................................................................................................ 24
User Accounts ...................................................................................................................................... 24

Appendix: File Converters ....................................................................................................... 26

Glossary..................................................................................................................................... 28

2 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


Insight User Guide What is Insight?

Introduction
The Insight User Guide contains an overview about the applications within the Insight software.
Detailed information about using all Insight applications is incorporated into the online help system
that is automatically installed with each Insight revision. You can access online help by using one of
the following methods:

• To access help for a window, dialog box, or menu command, select the item and press F1. Most
dialog boxes also include a Help button that displays help for the task you are performing.
• To obtain help for a specific application, open that application, and from the Help menu, click
Help Topics.

• To access all Insight help, click on the Insight Main Menu or select the help shortcut from
the Insight Version 3 program group. This displays the Insight Online Documentation screen that
allows you to access the Insight Release Notes and information about setting up and using the
Insight software and its options.

What is Insight?
Welcome to Insight, a graphical software package that allows you to manage and control your
building facilities from a personal computer running on Windows.
Insight’s easy-to-use graphical interface is designed to support the complex and demanding needs
of building operators. You can quickly and easily navigate between applications in the
workstation. By using the concept of “drag and drop”, you can share information between Insight
applications. This allows the operator to use the applications together instead of separately, and
saves the operator time by not having to switch to and from other applications or re-enter the
same information.
The numerous information and reporting capabilities allow you to make better management
decisions for today and the future.

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Insight Applications Insight User Guide

Insight Applications

Insight Main Menu


The Insight Main Menu is the central launching point for all Insight applications. To launch an
application from the Insight Main Menu, click the button that corresponds to the application you
want to open.
Your access level for each Insight application determines your access to applications on the Main
Menu. If your access level is No Access for an Insight application, the button for that application
will not display in the Insight Main Menu when you start the Insight software.
NOTE: Depending on your access level, you can also create up to 10 custom buttons that launch
applications from the Insight Main Menu. For more information, see the Insight Main
Menu online help.
Following is a brief description of each button on the Insight Main Menu. If you are running the
Base Insight package, you will not see the applications that are marked Optional.
Button Application Description
Alarm Issue Alarm Issue Management displays point alarm issues
Management detected in your building system.
(Optional)

Alarm Issue Alarm Issue Management Editor allows you to define


Management Editor contacts and equipment information that is used when
(AIM) (Optional) assigning a contact to an alarm issue.

Alarm Status Alarm Status displays point alarms and Building Level
Network (BLN) messages detected in your building
system.

Attribute Duplicator Attribute Duplicator allows you to copy the properties


of a point to another point or a group of points. For
example, a list of analog points will have all their
enhanced alarm definitions modified.

Commander Commander lets you take manual control of a point and


override any pre-established automatic controls for the
point.

Database Transfer Database Transfer provides a way for you to manually


upload and download the Insight system databases
between the Insight workstation and the field panels.

Dynamic Plotter Dynamic Plotter is used to plot point values in a


(Optional) continuous graph. Historical trend point values,
dynamic point value changes, or a combination of
historical and dynamic values can be used to analyze
and report on point activity.

Event Builder The Event Builder provides a mechanism to define


Zones and Events for your building system.

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Insight User Guide Insight Main Menu

Button Application Description


Global Commander The Global Commander allows you to issue a single
command to be applied to a selected group of points in
the building system.

Graphics Graphics allows you to create and display color


graphics of your facility and equipment for point
monitoring and commanding.

Online Documentation The Online Documentation screen allows you


Screen navigation capabilities, global searches to the Insight
Main Help files, Insight manuals (PDF), APOGEE
Technical Editor e-mail address, and the Siemens Web
site.

Panel Point Log ReportThe Point Log Report allows you to quickly create a
Point Log Report without creating a report definition in
Report Builder.

Point Detail Point Details is used to view information about a logical


point defined in your building system.

Point Editor The Point Editor is used to enter point information into
the Insight system so that the Insight software can
monitor and control the equipment connected to the
point.

Point Group Editor The Point Group Editor is used to organize the points in
your system. Grouping points allows you create
relationships and hierarchies among the points.

Point Summary Report The Point Summary Report application allows you to
create three types of printed reports containing
information about the points within the field panels and
devices of your Building Automation System.

Program Editor The Program Editor is used to create control programs


(Optional) with the Powers Process Control Language (PPCL).

Remote Notification Remote Notification allows the Insight system to send


(Optional) alarm and event information to external devices. These
devices are alphanumeric pagers, numeric pagers,
phones, or e-mail addresses.

Report Builder The Report Builder is used to configure report


definitions. When you select a report type, Report
Builder opens the report definition for the report you
want to create.

Report Viewer The Report Viewer is used to display reports on the


screen, to the printer or to file.

Scheduler Scheduler provides a way for you to schedule events,


(Report Scheduling reports, and trend collection on the Insight calendar.
Optional)

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Insight Applications Insight User Guide

Button Application Description


System Activity The System Activity Log allows you to view the
Log (Optional) activities, which are logged in your system.

System Profile System Profile gives you graphical, system-wide


control for defining, configuring, and maintaining your
entire building control network.

Time-of-Day (TOD) Time-of-Day (TOD) is used to automatically command


points based on a daily schedule or yearly calendar.

Trend Definition The Trend Definition Editor allows you to define trend
Editor points that will show how your building control
equipment is operating over a specified time period.

User Accounts User Accounts is used to manage access and security


for the Insight software and field panels on a specified
Building Level Network (BLN).

Alarm Issue Management (AIM)


The Alarm Issue Management (AIM) application allows you to manage the life cycle of an alarm
issue through all stages, from initiation to resolution. By selecting the Alarm Issue Management
option when defining a point in Point Editor, you have the ability to manage any alarm issues
occurring for that point within the system. An ordered procedure must be followed for each point
in alarm; Acknowledge, Assign (to a contact), Answer, Resolve, and Clear. Each step is logged
through the Alarm Issue Management application, which provides you the full history of that
alarm issue and with the ability to generate reports using the Report Builder application.
NOTE: APOGEE Field Panel Firmware Revision 2.5 or later is required for this application.
Earlier revisions are not supported.
Point alarms provide a way to notify you that the value of a point is beyond the specified
operating limits and that some action must be taken to correct the situation. Alarm Issue
Management allows you to enforce a documented process for each occurrence of an alarm
condition.
You enable the Alarm Issue Management option for a point from the Point Definition dialog box
in Point Editor. This ensures that any classification of an alarm triggers the alarm issue.

Alarm Issue Management Process Overview


The Alarm Issue Management process allows you to monitor the progress of each alarm issue
from initiation through resolution.
NOTE: An alarm issue can't be resolved until at least one answer is provided and the point has
returned to NORMAL, and stays at NORMAL. In addition, you can't answer an alarm
issue until it is first assigned to a contact.

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Insight User Guide Alarm Issue Management (AIM)

Data history is kept on all alarms requiring Alarm Issue Management. The application stores:

• The first alarm time or creation time and last return to NORMAL time only if currently at
NORMAL state, otherwise the field remains blank.
• User alarm acknowledgement
• Contact assignments
• User comments

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Insight Applications Insight User Guide

• Date, Time, and User initials for all alarm issue actions (acknowledge, assign, answer,
resolve, and clear).
NOTE: If you want status changes of points associated with an alarm issue, you can view this
information from the System Activity Log application.

Alarm Issue Management (AIM) Editor


The Alarm Issue Management (AIM) Editor allows you to create contacts and associated devices
and equipment groups for alarm issues. The contacts and their associated phone device and
equipment groups allow you to assign a specific trades person qualified to investigate a point
designated with Alarm Issue Management, as defined in the Point Editor application.
NOTE: A phone is the only device you can define in Alarm Issue Management (AIM) Editor.
However, if you have a Remote Notification license, you have additional choices for
devices to associate with a contact, such as a pager and email. Which, once defined, will
then display in AIM Editor and can be modified. For more information, see the online help
for the Remote Notification application.
A system tree displays the contacts and equipment in the left pane and the right pane describes
either the contact or equipment, depending on which is highlighted. This gives a quick visual
view of your contacts and equipment and all relevant information.

Alarm Management
Point alarms provide a way to notify you that the value of a point is beyond the specified
operating limits and that some action must be taken to correct the situation. Alarm management is
not a specific Insight application, but a methodology for managing point alarms throughout the
Insight software. The two Insight applications that help in this management process are Point
Editor and System Profile.
Alarm management allows you to define, route, acknowledge, and resolve alarms. It allows you
to determine where alarm information is sent and define the conditions that must exist in order for
an alarm to be issued for the point.

About Point Alarms


A point alarm is a way to notify you that the value of a point is beyond the specified operating
limits and some action must be taken to correct the situation. The following situations illustrate
when you could set a point to go into alarm:

• The value of an analog point is beyond a defined high or low limit. For example, a room
temperature point with a low limit of 65.0 will go into alarm whenever the temperature falls
below 65° F. An alarm notifies you of the problem so you can make adjustments to assure the
occupants are comfortable.
• The value of a proof point does not correspond to the commanded value of a point when the
proof delay time expires. For example, if you command a fan on and the proof point indicates
the fan is off, an alarm is issued to notify you that the fan is not running.

8 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


Insight User Guide Alarm Status

Types of Point Alarm Management


There are two types of point alarms, standard alarms and enhanced alarms. Whether a point is
configured with standard or enhanced alarms will determine how you need to use standard or
enhanced alarm management.
Standard alarm management is an alarm management strategy used for points in all field panels
and with any firmware revision. Standard alarming can be defined with or without destinations. A
destination is a group of devices on the MLN (such as Insight workstations, field panels, and
event and alarm printers) that receive the same alarm information. Point alarms are routed to
every destination associated with the destinations assigned to a point. If destinations are not
defined, alarms are sent to the devices associated with the default Destination 0, or up to four
destinations can be defined and alarms are sent to the devices in the destinations.
Enhanced alarm management is an alarm management strategy that allows you to route alarms to
the location best equipped to respond to the alarm based on alarm priority (for example, routine
maintenance or critical) or operating times (for example, day mode or night mode).

About Alarm Notification


When a field panel detects that the value of an alarmable point is beyond its specified operating
limits, the field panel issues an alarm for the point and the following events occur:

• The point state changes to alarm and an alarm priority is assigned to the point. The alarm
state and priority are displayed in certain Insight applications, such as Graphics, and reports,
such as the Panel Point Log. In order for the alarm to print at the field panel printer, you must
select the option to Print Conventional Alarms on BLN in the Point Editor.
• The field panel sends the alarm to Insight workstations and field panels that are defined as
alarm destinations for the point alarm. The alarm prints at printers attached to these Insight
workstations and field panels if printing is enabled for the devices in System Profile.
• The Alarm Status button on the taskbar flashes to notify you of alarms in progress you have
designated as critical. For non-critical alarms, the system beeps to notify you. You can
display, acknowledge, sort, or print alarms from the Alarm Status window. The alarm
information includes the alarm priority, alarm status, value of the point in alarm, and the time
the alarm occurred. As each alarm occurs, the Insight system logs the alarm in Alarm History.

Alarm Status
The Alarm Status application displays point alarms and Building Level Network (BLN) messages
detected in your building system. Point alarms and BLN messages are detected by field panels
and then distributed to designated alarm receivers (other field panels and Insight computers).
When the Insight software receives point alarms or BLN messages, the point alarms display in the
Point Alarm section and the BLN messages display in the BLN Message section of the Alarm
Status window.
While the Insight software is running, the Alarm Status window cannot be closed, only
minimized. When the Alarm Status window is minimized, the alarm bell notifies you of all new
alarms. In addition, the Alarm Status button in the taskbar notifies you of new critical alarms by
blinking. Critical alarm notification is user-definable. For steps, see Setting Critical Alarm
Notification.
Every time you log on to the Insight software, it is good practice to check for new alarms by
looking at the Alarm Status icon in the taskbar or maximizing the Alarm Status window and

Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. 9


Insight Applications Insight User Guide

looking at the top of the point alarm list or bottom of the BLN message list for new alarms. For
more information on alarm management, see the Alarm Management online help.
The Alarm Status window is broken into two different sections:

• The Point Alarm section displays all received point alarms. Point alarms display in the color
associated with the alarm priority or point status. The colors help identify the severity of the
alarm. Status colors are assigned in System Profile.
• The BLN Message section displays BLN messages. BLN messages are system-based
messages that give information about system activity (invalid logon attempt, PPCL program
statement failures).

Attribute Duplicator
The Attribute Duplicator application allows you to copy point properties from a single point to
one or more points, and these points can be mixed types (including digital and analog, and
unbundled points). Additionally, you can copy point group membership information into another
existing point group. However, you cannot copy a point type or a point name. Several attributes
can be selected at once; for detailed information on items representing either a single property or
group of properties that can be copied together at one time, see the Attribute Duplicator online
help.
The main window for the Attribute Duplicator consists of the following areas:

• The Source Point field displays the point name you selected as the source.
• The Properties to Copy section lists all the available point properties for the source point that
you can copy to one or more destination points. The type of properties will change depending
on the point type you choose. This list updates when the source point changes.
• The Attribute Duplicator copies attributes to the points listed in the Destination Points
section.
• The Copy Results section displays the results of each copy attempt.

Commander
The Commander application lets you manually control a point. When commanding a point, you
gain control of the point by overriding the pre-established automatic controls in a PPCL program,
the Time-of-Day (TOD) application, or the Event Builder application. Commanding a point
places it in Operator (OPER) priority, which overrides the Insight software’s control. When a
point is in OPER priority, the APOGEE System applications do not recognize it and cannot
perform any action on it. Whenever possible, let the APOGEE System applications command
points automatically through programs, such as PPCL without your intervention. To restore a
commanded point to the Insight system, you must release the command priority from OPER to
NONE.
BACnet points support 16 priorities and commands for each priority assigned in a Command
Priority Array. The current value of a BACnet point is regulated by the highest priority command
in the array. For more information, see the Commander online help.
Use Commander to command the following information for individual points:

• new point value

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Insight User Guide Communications Monitor

• command priority (OPER, SMOKE, EMER, PDL, or NONE)


• reset value for totalization
• alarm simulation
• alarmable/not alarmable status
• enable/disable
You can command both analog and digital points, however, you can only command the points
that you have access to in User Accounts. Generally, only output points can be commanded;
however, the input points of LAI, LDI, or LPACI can also be commanded if they are virtual
points.
If you are connected to a network, you can command points on the network. You can also use
Auto-Dial to connect to a different network where you have access and then command points in
that network.
You cannot command a failed point. The Commander allows you to disable the point and take it
out of service.
Point commanding tasks, such as restoring a point to its previously commanded state or
initializing a totalized point, are done using the Commander.

CAUTION:
Use the Commander application with caution, and only when you
know the exact end result for the point you are commanding.
Ideally, you should only use the Commander when making
temporary changes, such as temperature changes, or when
commanding modes of operation such as day, night, and warm-up.
It is inefficient to place a point in operator OPER command priority for a long period of time or
permanently. Permanent changes that you make to points should be done in PPCL programs.

Communications Monitor
The Communications Monitor application is installed on the Insight Server and all Insight Clients
on an MLN. When the Insight software is running, the Communications Monitor Application
monitors the availability of all Insight workstations on the network, and signals when the Insight
Server or an Insight Client becomes unavailable.

The Communications Monitor icon appears on the Windows Taskbar near the system clock.
Double-clicking on the icon opens the Communications Monitor window. The Communications
Monitor window provides a list of all Insight workstations on the MLN and provides the
following information for each Insight workstation:

• Whether the Insight workstation can communicate with the Insight workstation where
Communications Monitor is running.
• The Descriptor for the Insight workstation as defined in System Profile.
• Whether the Insight workstation is online or offline.
• Whether the Insight workstation is the Insight Database Server or a Standard Insight Client.
• Whether the Insight workstation is directly or remotely connected to the MLN.

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Insight Applications Insight User Guide

If the Insight software is started during a communication failure, some of the above information
may be unavailable. Missing data is listed as not available in the Communications Monitor
window.
NOTE: Only periodic checks are made for status changes in the Communication Monitor.

Communications Failure
When the Communications Monitor is running on an Insight workstation that is unable to
communicate with the Insight Server or another Insight Client the following occurs:

• The Communications Monitor icon flashes a broken network connection, and the system
beeps once.

• The Insight icons in the Communications Monitor window are unlatched if the Insight
workstation cannot be reached from the Insight workstation where Communications Monitor
is running.
• The status for the Insight workstation that cannot be reached changes to Offline.
The Insight Database Server and Insight Database Clients that communicate with the Insight
Server can run all Insight applications, but cannot monitor or command BLNs attached to Insight
Database Clients that are unavailable.
Insight Clients cannot run the Insight software or monitor and command BLNs when the Insight
Server is unavailable. For more information on restoring communication with an Insight
workstation, see the Communications Monitor online help.

Communications Restored
When communications with all Insight workstations are restored, the following occurs:

• The Communications Monitor icon stops blinking.

• All Insight icons in the Communications Monitor window latch .


• The status for all Insight workstations changes to Online.

Compliance Support Option


The Compliance Support Option for Insight provides functionality for detailed tracking of
modifications and deletions of supervised objects. With this option, you can track which property
of an object was changed, its value before and after the change, who made the change, why the
change was made, who authorized the change, and from where the change was made. This is
particularly beneficial for facilities that are required to comply with the Food and Drug
Administration (FDA) regulations for Electronic Records, or 21 CFR Part 11.
NOTE: The Compliance Support Option (CSO) is dependent on the Insight MonitorSvc service
(Communication Monitor application) to be running on your Insight workstation. If this
service is not on, you will receive an Access Denied error message when you want to
change a CSO object.

12 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


Insight User Guide Database Transfer

Database Transfer
The Database Transfer is application provides a way for you to manually upload and download
the Insight system databases between the Insight workstation and the field panels. This is
necessary in the event of data loss on either side due to hardware failure, accidental erasure, a
field panel cold start, or some other disruptive event.
For each database transfer you can monitor the transmission, identify transmission errors, and
produce reports for each database transferred.
The Database Transfer application also allows you to backup and restore BACnet database
information on BACnet BLNs for third-party BACnet devices and should not be confused with
uploading or downloading data feature for APOGEE field panels. You must have Configure/Edit-
level access to perform a BACnet backup or restore.

Uploading and Downloading


Uploading and downloading are terms used to describe transferring databases between two
storage devices. In your Insight system:

• Uploading data is transferring data from a field panel to the Insight workstation.
• Downloading data is transferring data from the Insight workstation to a field panel.
NOTE: The data being transferred replaces the data at the receiving site.
NOTE: You can also download Insight database information to APOGEE BACnet field panels.

Backing up and Restoring


The backing up and restoring functions are used to back up or restore third-party BACnet devices
and should not be confused with uploading data from a APOGEE field panel to the Insight
workstation. You must have Configure/Edit-level access to perform a BACnet backup.

Dynamic Plotter
The Dynamic Plotter application is used to plot point values in a graph. You can set up a graph to
use historical trend point values, dynamic point value changes, or a combination of historical and
dynamic values. Then, you can use the graphs to analyze and report on point activity within your
building system.
Once a graph is created, you can change almost any aspect of that graph to display data in a
format that best meets your needs. This can include, but is not limited to, changing the graph
type, adding titles, rotating the graph, or viewing the graph in 3-D. For more information on the
graph settings you can change, see the Dynamic Plotter online help.
Dynamic Plotter performs the following functions:

• plot dynamic point values to monitor changes


• plot historical trend data that is already collected by the Insight software
• plot historical and dynamic data on the same graph
• open multiple graphs at one time
• link graphs so time spans are uniform between the graphs

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Insight Applications Insight User Guide

• zoom in on a specific time range


• take a snapshot of a graph for future analysis
• copy a graph in ASCII, bitmap, or metafile format
• add points to and delete points from a graph
• output graphs to the screen, printer, or tab separated value for spreadsheets

Event Builder
The Event Builder application allows you to define zones, events, and BACnet Command Objects
in your building system. Zones are the building resources (room, floor) that you can schedule, and
events are the activities in your building that allow the HVAC equipment associated with the
zone to be commanded to various states.
You can also use the Event builder to program the optimization of a zone. By adding Start/Stop
Time Optimization (SSTO) logic to the zone, you can conserve energy by starting heating or
cooling as late as possible prior to occupancy and stopping heating or cooling as early as possible
prior to vacancy. Night operation can also be defined.
You can use the Event Builder to do the following:

• define, modify, copy, and delete zones


• define, modify, and delete event definitions
• define, modify, and delete BACnet Command Objects
• enable and define zone Start/Stop Time Optimization (SSTO)

Global Commander
The Global Commander application allows you to issue a single command to be applied to a
selected group of points in the building system. For example, you can command a set of Terminal
Equipment Controller (TECs) subpoints to a specific value in a single operation. You use the Global
Commander to:

• command the value of a group of BACnet FLN devices, TEC, LTEC, UC, or Equipment
Scheduling zone subpoints
• release a group of BACnet FLN devices, TEC, LTEC, UC, or Equipment Scheduling zone
subpoints
• update the initial values of a group of BACnet FLN devices, TECs or LTECs
• initialize a group of BACnet FLN devices, TECs or LTECs
• set the command priority for a group of logical points

Graphics
The Graphics application allows you to create color graphics of your facility and equipment for
point monitoring and point commanding. You can use Graphics to:

• create and edit color graphics of your building control system

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Insight User Guide Graphics

• add dynamic point information to graphics


• monitor points in your building
• command points to new values
• associate a point with an object that represents the points and points in alarm
• link graphic files (objects) together
• create a graphic tree with graphic alarm links
• view your graphic tree
• navigate up and down your graphics tree
• navigate to alarms on your graphics
• acknowledge alarms from points on you graphics
• zoom in and out on portions of you graphics
• select Multiple Graphics Controls
• transfer and import/export graphic files
• create, customize, and associate BACnet FLN Device, TEC or LTEC graphics
• drag-and-drop from a graphic to another graphic with Graphic Editor
• create an advanced link to a file, email address, Web link, or object and/or application you
would like to associate with the graphic link
The following diagram illustrates the main functionality for using the Graphics application.
However, depending upon your situation you may only be responsible for monitoring and
commanding points, and will have no input into creating the graphic drawing. Also, the order of
the functions can be somewhat varied. For example, you can modify the display properties for the
background drawing anytime after you have inserted it into the Graphics application. On the other
hand, you cannot begin associating background objects to points until you have changed the
display to Dynamic Mode.

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Insight Applications Insight User Guide

MODIFY DISPLAY
INSERT DESIGNER
PROPERTIES OF
BACKGROUND GRAPHIC
CREATE BACKGROUND BACKGROUND DRAWING
START GRAPHICS
GRAPHIC
APPLICATION
(OPTIONAL)
CHANGE DISPLAY
TO EDIT MODE

IPC0415R1

CHANGE DISPLAY PRINT THE


TO DYNAMIC MODE DYNAMIC GRAPHIC
DEFINE GRAPHICS
CONTROLS

CREATE DYNAMIC
CREATE DYNAMIC
GRAPHIC ASSOCIATING
GRAPHIC ASSOCIATING POINT
BACKGROUND ASSOCIATED POINT
BACKGROUND INFORMATION BLOCK
OBJECTS TO A DYNAMIC
OBJECTS TO POINTS
GRAPHIC FILE

ANALOG BAR GRAPHIC LINK

MONITOR
ASSOCIATED POINTS
ARROW

COMMAND A POINT * (OPTIONAL PROCESSES)

Object Selector
The Object Selector allows you to retrieve a list of the objects available for use with other Insight
applications. An object is an entry in your database, which you can use with Insight applications.
With Object Selector, you can:

• browse the list of objects


• select the objects you need
• bring them to the application you are working in
The Object Selector is divided into two sections:

• The Look In Section allows you to display, select, and bring objects to the application you are
working in.
• The Find Objects That Match These Criteria section allows you to select your own criteria to
search the Insight database for a list of objects that displays in the list box section.

Point Details
The Point Details application is used to view information about a logical point defined in your
building system. Point Details displays the following information about a logical point:

• Point definition information describes the characteristics of the point and is entered in the
Point Editor application. For example, the point definition includes the point name,
description, address, and alarm characteristics.
• Point status information may vary for a point as changes occur in the building system. For
example, a point state could be an alarm state of a temperature point and a point value could
be the temperature sensed by a space temperature sensor.
NOTE: If a point is not alarmable, Point Details indicates this by graying all alarm attribute fields.

16 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


Insight User Guide Point Editor

When viewing point details, note that:

• You can only view point details for one point at a time.
• You cannot change any of the information on the window. If you want to change a point, you
must edit the point definition. For more information, see the Point Editor online help.
• The point information that appears on the window is not dynamic. If the value or state of a
point changes, you must redisplay Point Details to view this change.
• The physical address for point types, including a LENUM point, is shown in the Physical
Address(es) field.
• The command priority for FLN subpoints displays the priorities NONE, OVRD, PDL,
EMER, SMOKE, or OPER for that subpoint.
If you want to display dynamic information for multiple points,
you can display point information blocks in the Graphics
application. Point information blocks display changes to the point
state or value as they occur. For more information, see the
Graphics online help.

Point Editor
The Point Editor application enables you to enter point information into the Insight software so
that the Insight system can monitor and control the equipment connected to the point. You can do
the following with Point Editor:

• create a point
• copy a point
• open a point
• modify a point
• delete a point
• set up point alarm management

Point Group Editor


The Point Group Editor application enables you to organize the points in your system. Some
examples of ways to organize your points include the following:

• by location (rooms, buildings, floors)


• by functions (security, maintenance)
• by equipment (fans, sensors, pumps, chillers)
Grouping points allows you to organize points and create hierarchies among the points. With
groups, you don’t have to remember all the point names in your system because you can open the
group to display the contents. This is helpful when editing databases, or interpreting changes in
dynamic graphics.
NOTE: You can’t command point groups because they don’t exist in the field panel. However, you
can always display the points in a group and command them individually.

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Insight Applications Insight User Guide

Point Summary Report


The Point Summary Report application enables you to create reports by selecting field panels,
which include ALS3 field panels, and choosing the fields that will display in the report. In
addition, you can export a report from the Point Summary Report application to a Microsoft
Excel spreadsheet application. From Excel, you can modify the report, save the report as an Excel
worksheet, and print the report.
NOTE: You can't save a report in the Point Summary Report application itself—once you close the
Point Summary Report application, the report information is not stored. To work around
this, either print the report or export the report data to Microsoft Excel and save it from
there.
The Point Summary Report application allows you to:

• create a new report.


• print a report.
• export report data to a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet.
• create labels for TECs using Microsoft Excel.

Program Editor
The Program Editor application enables you to create control programs with the Powers Process
Control Language (PPCL). PPCL is the programming language used to write field panel control
programs for building control and energy management functions. PPCL consists of various types
of statements, each performing a different task. Put together, these statements become ordered
instructions called control programs, which are executed at the field panel. These control
programs instruct the field panel on how to perform calculations, evaluate control strategies,
perform time-based actions, and command points.

CAUTION:
A change in just one line of a PPCL program can affect the operation
and performance of an entire system. Any changes to PPCL programs
should be carefully considered. Inexperienced users should not attempt
to apply PPCL programs to building control.

The Program Editor allows you to:

• create a new program


• open an existing program
• open multiple programs
• modify or delete existing programs
• build statements using the command assist feature
• assign colors, fonts, and font sizes to different elements of a program
• copy or move program lines
• renumber program lines automatically
• import and export programs between databases (for example, program libraries)

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Insight User Guide Remote Notification

• bookmark specific program lines


• search for text in a program
• compile a single program line or the entire program
• enable and disable program lines in a field panel
Before you begin using the Program Editor, you should complete the following tasks:

• Obtain formal instruction in PPCL programming.


• Be familiar with the equipment controlled by the PPCL program and understand the
configuration of the equipment installed in your facility. For information on viewing the
setup of your building control network, see the System Profile online help.
• Understand how points are set up in your system and how changes to PPCL code will affect
the operation of these points. Identify any points associated with life safety, fire, or smoke
control and take any necessary precautions when working with these types of points. Also,
identify any points that influence the operation of other points and evaluate how a change will
affect these points and take any necessary precautions.

Remote Notification
The Remote Notification application allows Insight to send alarm and event information to
external devices. These devices can be alphanumeric pagers, numeric pagers, phones, SMS, or e-
mail (includes cellphones enabled with Internet service). Once a notification is sent, a contact
responds to the notification. A contact is a potential notification candidate for alarms and events,
and has devices by which to be notified if these conditions arise. Remote Notification can run at
either an Insight Server or Client workstation, and it runs independently of Insight operation.

CAUTION:
If you install a Remote Notification server on an Insight client, verify that
the Insight RENOServer service is not running (set to disabled) on the
Insight database server. If it is, you will receive duplicate notifications.
Remote Notification includes the following features:

• notification for all points within the APOGEE database, regardless of origin (for example,
BACnet or other system points that don’t reside in an APOGEE field panel)
• notification for Standard and Enhanced alarms, and the ability to customize notification for
each alarm level
• notification for BLN events
• integration with other notification systems and third party devices
• alarm escalation
• the ability to stop and restart escalation
• support for calling into the system to hear and stop notification
• device grouping
• manual notification

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Insight Applications Insight User Guide

How Remote Notification Works


Remote Notification allows the Insight software to send alarm and event information to external devices.
These devices are alphanumeric pagers, numeric pagers, phones, SMS, or e-mail (includes cellphones
enabled with Internet service).
An alarm is a way for the Insight software to notify you that the value of a point in your building
system is outside of its normal operating range. An event can be a Building Level Network
(BLN) failure, panel failure, a device return from failure, etc.
NOTE: Remote Notification excludes Insight failures.
Remote Notification can run even while no one is logged onto the system, which allows
notifications to be sent whether or not an operator is logged on. Once a notification is sent,
contacts respond to the notification. A contact is a potential notification candidate for alarms and
events, and can have devices by which to be notified if these conditions arise. Contacts will only
be notified for points for which they have at least Read Only access.
NOTE: Responding to notification indicates that the contact has received remote notification. It
does not mean that the contact has acted on whatever caused the alarm or event.

Report Builder/Viewer
The Report Builder application allows you to customize predefined reports. A report displays
information about your building system. You can use reports as a reference or as a
troubleshooting mechanism. The Insight product offers a wide range of reports designed to give
you specific information concerning your building system. For a detailed list of all available
reports, see the Report Builder online help.
When you select a report type, Report Builder opens the report definition for the report you want
to create. You can configure each section within the report definition to ensure the report gives
you the information you need. Once you have configured the report definition, you can save the
report definition for later use, and run the report.
Report Builder allows you to:

• create report definitions


• open multiple report definitions to modify or run
• schedule report definitions to run at defined times using the Scheduler application. For more
information on scheduling, see the Scheduler online help.
The Report Viewer application allows you to display previously-saved report definitions on the
screen, printer, file, or e-mail. To view reports on your screen, you must check the Screen check
box in the Output section of the report definition.
When you run a report definition configured to output on the screen, the Report Viewer opens
and displays the report based on the information you provided in the report definition. Report
Viewer also allows you print a report, export the report to a file, or e-mail the exported file.

You can run a report from within the Report Builder or click from the Insight Main Menu
and select a report definition to run.
Report Viewer allows you to:

• view a report

20 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


Insight User Guide Scheduler

• copy report data to the clipboard


• print a report
• export report data to a file
• export report data to a file and then send the file as an e-mail attachment

Scheduler
The Scheduler application allows you to schedule zones, events, reports, and trend collections on
the Insight calendar. Schedules contain start and stop times for equipment events and zones and
start times for reports and trend collections.
The Scheduler application also allows you to edit schedules and calendars in BACnet devices.
You can add, modify, or delete BACnet objects in both native Siemens BACnet field panels and
in third-party field panels. All schedule and calendar objects for Siemens BACnet field panels are
stored in Insight database.
NOTE: Third-party BACnet field panels must be online to edit, view, or delete schedules or
calendars.
The Scheduler allows you to:

• schedule events, zones, reports and trend collections using the following information:
− date started
− time started
− time ended (zones and events only)
− number of days spanned (zones and events only)
− frequency with which an event is repeated
− the term (until a date, for a number of weeks or days, continuously)
• schedule reports to automatically produce daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, end-of-month,
and end-of-quarter reports. Reports are sent to a designated printer, or a file that can be
imported into a spreadsheet using a macro.
• schedule trend data collections to the Insight workstation for trend data storage and reporting
• override event and zone schedules
• filter schedule by type and your access level
• edit schedules and calendars in devices
• add special assignments:
− day shifts
− replacement days
− TOD special days and holidays

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Insight Applications Insight User Guide

System Activity Log


The System Activity Log application allows you to monitor and print reports about the activities
that are logged in your system, including BACnet information. The types of activity include:
alarm acknowledgment, object changes, data uploads and downloads, logon and logoff activity,
and more. You can determine which information to display on your screen or send to your printer.
NOTE: The Insight software also includes a System Activity Log report that allows you to collect
alarm, system, and user information stored by the System Activity Log application and
generate a report that can be scheduled using the available Scheduler Report option.
NOTE: You can configure the amount of data stored in the System Activity Log using the project
settings in System Profile. For more information, see the System Profile online help.

System Profile
System Profile is the Insight application that gives you graphical, system-wide control for
defining, configuring, and maintaining your entire building control network. You can use System
Profile to:

• configure a MS/TP network that may support up to ninety-six MS/TP devices


• configure BACnet MS/TP BLN that may support up to 10 devices. BACnet field panels, with
Firmware Revision 3.1 or later, can reside on BACnet IP or MS/TP networks.
• configure a BACnet MS/TP FLN from the BACnet Field Panel Definition and MS/TP FLN
Settings dialog boxes
• graphically define, organize, and enable equipment on the Management Level Network (MLN),
Building Level Network (BLN), and Floor Level Network (FLN)
• configure and control alarm destinations and communications
• add Insight workstations to the MLN
• add BLNs to the MLN
• add field panels to the BLN
• add BACnet FLN devices, BIMs, DPUs, MPUs, PXMs, TECs, and UCs to the FLN
• add LTECs to an FLN on an MBC that supports LONWORKS® technology
• add modems and establish their remote connections to an Insight workstation or a field panel
• configure MS/TP BLN and FLNs
• configure event printers for an Insight workstation or a field panel
• graphically copy or move a device or network from one location in the system tree to another
• globally view and manage phone connections for Auto-Dial equipment
• view and manage BACnet objects and device, including third party BACnet objects and devices,
using the BACnet Object Browser application
• define custom bitmaps
• print labels for MBC modules

22 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


Insight User Guide System Profile

When to Use System Profile


Your facility is defined and configured when the Insight software is installed. Once configured,
you can use System Profile to add new devices, change existing devices, and delete devices. You
can change the definitions of existing network trunks and devices, determine global settings for
the network and an Insight workstation, and connect (or disconnect) devices for the entire facility.
In addition, the system tree gives you a graphical overview of the entire network. Each network
trunk and device is represented by a unique icon that you can copy as needed to represent the
current structure of your building.
System Profile offers flexibility in maintaining the configuration of the network because you can
do either of the following equipment connection methods:

• Use System Profile first to define device parameters and position of the device in the network
before physically connecting the device.
• Connect the device first, and then use System Profile to define device parameters and position
it in the network corresponding to its physical connection.
• Use the System Profile application to show logical grouping of devices in your facility.
For example, you can use System Profile to define the parameters of a new field panel on the
BLN and then connect the panel or you can connect the panel first and then define its parameters
and network position. You do not have to connect the devices before using System Profile to
define associated parameters.
NOTE: System Profile can define a BLN and upload it to automatically add all field panels for the
BLN.

BACnet Object Browser


The BACnet Object Browser application allows you to browse Siemens BACnet devices and
objects and third-party BACnet devices and objects for diagnostic purposes. Launch this
application from the System Profile application by selecting either a BACnet BLN or BACnet
field panel, and then from the Tools menu click BACnet Object Browser. The BACnet Object
Browser displays the hierarchy of a BACnet network and its detailed device and object
information.
The main window is divided into three separate panes. The left pane contains a system tree
showing the hierarchy of the BACnet network. The root is the entire network, followed by
devices on the network, folders of object groups of the same type, and then the objects
themselves. The right pane displays all the properties and property values of the object selected in
the system tree view. The bottom pane displays any error messages.
Most proprietary property object information is not available unless it's simple data types such as
unsigned, float, string, etc. However, the BACnet Object Browser will display proprietary objects
in the system tree.
To use this application, you must have either Read-level access (which allows you to view and
browse to any available devices and objects) or Configure-level access (which allows you to write
properties, import points, reinitialize devices, or use device communication controls as needed) to
the BACnet Object Browser. User access level settings are configured through the User Accounts
application.

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Insight Applications Insight User Guide

Time of Day (TOD)


The Time of Day (TOD) application enables you to automatically command points based on a
daily schedule or yearly calendar. Points used in TOD schedules must already be defined in the
Insight Point database. If you are building a new schedule or entering commands for a new point,
be sure that you have entered the point using the Point Editor before writing TOD schedules.
Time of Day scheduling allows you to:

• operate your facility more efficiently


• determine when systems and controls are activated or deactivated based on occupancy and
vacancy
• override existing commands to plan for holidays and special days
• disable specific points in a group for maintenance
• create temporary new commands for days that have no scheduling
Time of Day consists of the following three parts:

• Occupancy schedules are where you assign absolute times (specific hour and minute that the
point should be commanded) to occupancy labels.
• Control schedules are where you enter the TOD commands for the points in the zone. Control
schedules contain specific commands for equipment and setpoints.
• Zones are groups of points put into a Time of Day schedule. All points that are controlled by
Time of Day must be placed into zones. For more details, see the APOGEE Scheduling
Application Guide (125-2211).

Trend Definition Editor


The Trend Definition Editor application allows you to collect information about how your
building control equipment is operating over a specified time period. With the Trend Definition
Editor, you define trend definitions that provide a historical record of both analog and digital
point activity. You can also monitor the changes in value or state for a point. You define whether
point data at the field panel is sampled by time-interval trending or by COV (Change-Of-Value)
trending.
You can use collected trend data to:

• monitor operating conditions, energy consumption, and equipment run-time schedules


• assist in loop tuning
• maintain a history of point activity over time
• help with equipment troubleshooting
• assist in designing maintenance and service schedules

User Accounts
The User Accounts application enables you to manage access and security for Insight workstations
and field panels on a specified Building Level Network (BLN), including BACnet BLNs. By creating
individual accounts, a system administrator can grant users access to objects and applications in any

24 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


Insight User Guide User Accounts

Insight workstation on the Management Level Network (MLN). The administrator can also grant
access to objects and functions residing in field panels on a specified BLN.
Specifically, a system administrator can:

• define the users, through individual accounts, who can access the Insight applications
• define the users, through individual accounts, who can access a specific BLN
• assign access levels to access groups
• assign access levels to Insight applications (Insight accounts only)
• assign access levels to custom buttons (up to ten)
• assign access levels to field panel functions residing in the field panels on a specific BLN
(BLN accounts only)
Users without a high level of access to User Accounts can only view their own account.

Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. 25


Appendix: File Converters Insight User Guide

Appendix: File Converters


Designer supports filters for the following drawing applications:
Applications Extension
Adobe Illustrator AI .ai

Adobe Photoshop .psd

ASCII Text .txt

AutoCAD Drawing .dwg

AutoCAD DXF .dxf

CompuServe Bitmap .gif

CompuServe Portable Network Graphics .png

Computer Graphics Metafile .cgm

Corel Clipart Format .cmx

CorelDRAW! 3.0, 4.0, 5.0 .cdr

Digital Research GEM .gem

Encapsulated PostScript/AI EPS .eps

HP Graphics Language .hgl

HP Graphics Language .plt

IGES Drawing .igs

JPEG File Interchange .jpg

Kodak Photo CD .pcd

Macintosh PICT .pct

Micrografx Clip Art .mgx

Micrografx Designer 4.x Drawing .ds4

Micrografx Designer 4.x Clip Art .mgx

Micrografx Designer Clip Art .mgx

Micrografx Designer File .dsf

Micrografx Drawing .drw

Micrografx Graph .grf

Micrografx Picture .pic

Micrografx Picture Publisher .ppf

26 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


Insight User Guide User Accounts

Applications Extension
Micrografx Picture Publisher 4.0 .pp4

Micrografx Picture Publisher 5.0 .pp5

Micrografx Simply 3D .s3d

PC PaintBrush .pcx

PostScript .prn

PostScript .ps

Rich Text Format .rtf

Scitex CT .sct

Sun Raster .ras

Tagged Image File Format .tiff

Targa Bitmap .tga

Windows Bitmap .bmp

Windows Device Independent Bitmap .dib

Windows Metafile .wmf

WordPerfect Graphics 1.0, 2.0 .wpg

Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. 27


Glossary Insight User Guide

Glossary

-A-

Access Group
Grouping objects (points, point groups, programs, graphics) with
similar characteristics. Access groups are assigned an access level
that applies to all objects in the access group. See Access Level.

Access Level
Determines your ability to access objects, Insight applications, and
field panel functions. Insight access levels include: No Access, Read
Only, Command, Configure/Edit. BLN access levels include: No
Access, Read Only, Command, Edit.

Account
See User Account.

Active Window
The window you are currently working in. The active window
receives the next action you perform.

Address Assistant
A feature of the Point Editor application that helps you set up each
part of a point address.

Advanced FLEX String


A feature of the System Profile application that allows you to
override the AT command for modem drivers on your network.

Alarm
A means for the Insight workstation to notify you that the value of a
point in your building system is outside of its normal operating
range, and action should be taken to correct the situation. See Point
Alarm.

Alarm Acknowledgment
Your response to an alarm by reporting receipt of the alarm from an
Insight computer or field panel connected to the same Building
Level Network (BLN) as the alarm.

Alarm By Command State


A point attribute that indicates the point has been commanded into
alarm by an operator or by the control program. The point remains in
this state until it is commanded back to the Normal state by an

28 Siemens Building Technologies, Inc.


Insight User Guide User Accounts

operator or control program.

Alarm Destination
A grouping of devices on the MLN (such as Insight computers, field
panels, and printers), which receive the same alarm information.
Point alarms are routed to every destination associated with the
destinations assigned to the point.

Alarm Detection
The ability for a field panel to determine an alarm condition and then
report the alarm to the designated alarm receivers. If an alarm
receiver is off-line, detected alarms are stored and displayed when
the receiver is online again.

Alarm Differential
A buffer, above or below the alarm level, that a point in enhanced
alarm must cross before it reports a change in alarm level. The alarm
differential determines when a point is no longer in the reported
alarm level. For example, a point fluctuating near the alarm level
will continue to be in alarm until it reaches an acceptable differential
level below the alarm level.

Alarm Distribution
The circulation of alarm activity throughout your building system.
Alarm distribution is achieved by defining Destinations. See Alarm
Destination.

Alarm History
A log of every alarm received by Insight.

Alarm Issue
An alarm issue is a point, in alarm, that you designate with the
Alarm Issue Management application, which allows you to manage
an alarm from it's creation to resolution.

Alarm Issue Management


A strategy you use to acknowledge, assign, answer, resolve, and
clear alarms. Alarm Issue Management allows you to track alarm
information and define the conditions that must exist in order for an
alarm to be issued for the point.

Alarm Issue Management Editor


An application that allows you to create contacts and equipment
groups.

Alarm Level
An offset value above or below the setpoint that triggers an alarm
when reached. If a point uses enhanced alarming, alarm levels are

Siemens Building Technologies, Inc. 29


Glossary Insight User Guide

used to trigger alarms at offset values above or below the set point.
For example, if the set point is 70° and the alarm level is defined as
4° higher than the set point, the alarm level is 74°.

Alarm Management
A management process that allows you to define, route,
acknowledge, and resolve alarms. Alarm management lets you
determine where alarm information is sent and define the conditions
that must exist in order for an alarm to be issued for the point. See
Standard Alarm Management; Enhanced Alarm Management.

Alarm Message
A user-defined message, entered in Point Editor or System Profile,
that typically gives instructions on what to do if a point goes into
alarm. See Point Messages.

Alarm Printer
A device located on the Building Level Network (BLN) that can be
designated as an alarm receiver to print incoming alarms.

Alarm Priority
Attribute assigned to a point alarm that ranks the severity of an alarm
in your building system. A point can have up to six alarm priorities;
Level 1 for the most critical alarms and Level 6 for the least critical
alarms.

Alarm Receiver
A field panel, Insight computer, or printer in your building system
designated to receive alarms.

Alarm Status
The Insight application that allows you to view and manage point
alarms and BLN messages received from your building system. The
Alarm Status window includes functionality for sorting point alarms,
acknowledging point alarms, and printing the point alarm or BLN
message list.

Analog Bar
An object in a dynamic graphic (similar to a thermometer) that
monitors values for analog points. See Commanding Analog Bar.

Analog Input (AI) Point


A point that receives a continuous variable signal. For example, flow
rate sensors (water or air), temperature sensors (room or duct),
pressure sensors (static or velocity), and humidity sensors (room,
duct or outdoor).

Analog Output (AO) Point

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A point that sends a continuous signal to command equipment. For


example, dampers, valves, or fan inlet vane controllers.

Analog Point
A point that uses a range of numerical values to represent a
continuously changing condition, for example, damper position and
flow rate. Analog points can be input (variable information from the
building to the field panel) or output (variable commands from the
field panel to the building).

Analog Point Value


A measurement of the properties of an analog point-like temperature
or pressure. The analog bar displays analog point values in a
dynamic graphic.

Answer
Provides a method of explaining what steps were taken to correct the
alarm issues, including multiple answers.

APDU
An application protocol data unit (APDU).

Argument
A type of variable whose value is not a direct function of another
variable. Arguments can represent the location of a number in a
mathematical operation, or the number with which a function works
to produce its result.

Arrow
An object in a dynamic graphic that displays and controls values for
an analog point.

Assign
Allows you to specify the contact in Alarm Issue Management who
is responsible for investigating an alarm issue.

Associated Point
A background object (symbol), such as a fan or pump, which is
joined to, or associated with, a point in your building or with another
graphic.

Association
In the Graphics Application, a connection or link between a
background object and a point, or between a background object and
a dynamic graphic file.

Auto Clear

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Auto Clear is the option of automatically choosing to clear alarm


issues when they become resolved and the point returns to
NORMAL.

Automatic
One of three views the Insight computer has of a remote Building
Level Network (BLN) trunk. Automatic instructs the Insight
computer to connect, send, and disconnect automatically. An
automatic connection to a trunk is done over leased lines without
explicit instructions. See Direct; Explicit.

Automatic Trend Collection


The process by which the Insight computer is notified whenever a
trend buffer in the panel exceeds a pre-determined threshold,
calculated to be 80%. When trend data is sampled at the panel and
the 80% storage capacity is reached for a point, the panel notifies the
Insight computer to collect the trend data. The Insight computer
responds by collecting trend data at the panel for points whose
threshold has been reached. The field panel then resets its level
marker for the trend buffer and the “watch process” of auto-
collection starts over.

Automation Level Network (ALN)


The communication trunk connecting Insight computers and field
panels in your building control system. You must have an ALN
Account in order to access and perform operations at a field panel on
a specific ALN. See Building Level Network (BLN).

-B-

Background Graphic
The basic drawing of your building control that represents the
physical parts of your system, including ducts, mechanical
equipment, and sensors. Background graphics are used with the
Graphics application. See Dynamic Graphic.

Background Object
A picture created in the background graphic that appears in the
dynamic graphic to represent a specific unit of HVAC equipment
like a fan, chiller, boiler, sensor, and damper.

Backup
The function of backing up your data in Insight by making a copy of
it on another data storage device.

BACnet
A data communication protocol for Building Automation and
Control Networks, ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 135-2004. BACnet
allows devices from multiple manufacturers to work together on a

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network.

BACnet Backup
A feature that backs up a database in selected third-party BACnet
field panel (device) to an Insight workstation, if supported by the
device.

BACnet Command Object


Contains lists of actions that are performed based on the present
value of the command object. Different lists of actions can exist for
each value. An action list element consists of what device, object,
and property you want commanded and the value to command it to.

BACnet FLN Device


A BACnet device used to provides a method to pass and receive
information on a BACnet/IP or BACnet MS/TP BLN networks. The
device can be a logical or physical device that is grouped with other
such devices on a MS/TP FLN. Groups of BACnet FLN devices can
be a mix of either Siemens devices and/or third-party devices in a
logical or physical grouping. Physical devices connect to the
network through an FLN port on a BACnet field panel with
Firmware Revision 3.1 and later. Logical devices connect to other
network segments and communciate through a BACnet router.

BACnet Object Browser


The BACnet Object Browser is an application that allows you to
browse Siemens BACnet devices and objects and third-party
BACnet devices and objects for diagnostic purposes.

BACnet Restore
A feature that restores previously backed up databases from an
Insight workstation to selected third-party BACnet field panel
(device), if supported by the device.

BIM
See Bus Interface Module.

BLN
See Building Level Network.

BLN Account
Grants you access to all the field panels on the designated BLN. See
User Account.

BLN Message
System-based messages that provides information about building
system activity (invalid logon attempt, PPCL program statement
failures).

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Bookmarks
Lets you mark a particular program line so that you can quickly
locate the line in the program code. The position is anchored to the
program line and moves with that line when other lines are added or
deleted from the program.

Building Level Network (BLN)


The communication trunk connecting Insight computers and field
panels in your building control system. You must have a BLN Account
in order to access and perform operations at a field panel on a specific
BLN.

Bundled Point
A logical point that monitors and commands several physical points for
a single piece of equipment. This allows you to control the equipment
without having to reference each physical point separately.

Bus Interface Module (BIM)


A point expansion device that resides on the FLN and provides
additional point capacity to a field panel. A BIM supports any
combination of point modules that include a variety of digital and
analog inputs/outputs.

-C-

Cabinet
See Field Panel.

Calendar
See Insight Calendar.

Change-Of-Value
See COV.

Change-Of-Value Limit
See COV Limit.

Clear
Removes the resolved alarm issue from the Resolved Alarms
Waiting to be Cleared section in the lower half of the Alarm Issue
Management window.

Cloaking
Allows you to remove a field panel from the System Profile tree.
This hides BACnet devices that you don't want to be seen on an
Insight workstation and prevents the Discovery feature from
constantly re-adding them to a BLN.

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COMPACT
A type of field panel that is similar to an MEC but cannot have FLNs
assigned to it. COMPACT points work with CrossTrunk and can be
exported to BACnet.

COM Port
The serial port on the Insight computer that connects to a field panel,
either by a serial cable and truck interface (TI), or by a modem.

Combined Graph
A graph using a combination of historical data plots and dynamic
data on one graph. If a point is no trended at the Insight computer or
field panels, then no historical values appear for that point.

Comma Separated Value


Denotes an ASCII file type that can be readily imported into a
spreadsheet format. CSV is used by the Advanced Report Output
Options.

Command
An instruction evaluated by the computer.

Command Access
Level of access, used in Insight and BLN accounts, that allows you
to read and command objects.

Command Priority Array


Allows you to view and/or the priority level(s) at which a user is
able to command and relinquish at. Commandable BACnet
properties have an associated Command Priority Array which stores
commands issued to the property.

Command Priority
A point attribute that determines whether an operator or a particular
control program is responsible for controlling the point. A command
priority is assigned to each point. There are five priority levels. A
hierarchy has been established to define which source has the
priority over another to change a point’s value. See OPER; SMOKE;
EMER; PDL; NONE.

Commander
The Insight application that allows you to put an output point (or a
virtual input point) into OPER (operator) command priority and
temporarily take control of the point. OPER priority overrides the
PPCL program statements that normally control the point.

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Commanding
Manually overriding the Insight program instructions for an output
point or a virtual input point. Point commanding changes the
command priority of the point from NONE to OPER, SMOKE,
EMER, or PDL. See Commander.

Commanding Analog Bar


An analog bar that monitors the point values, as well as allowing you
to command, or change the value, of the analog output point.

Comment Line
Information that is written into the PPCL program but is not
interpreted as a program command. The compiler skips over the
comment line during compilation. Comment lines allow you to enter
text information describing the functionality of a specific section of
code. Comment lines are helpful for describing subroutines and areas
of program code that are difficult to understand.

Communications Trunk
The main data link between devices on the Protocol 2 (P2) trunk.

Compliance Support Option


Insight option that allows detailed tracking of modifications and
deletions of objects. With this option, you can track which property
of an object was changed, its value before and after the change, why
the change was made, who authorized the change, and where the
change was made from. This provides audit trail functionality to
support compliance with federal regulations (e.g., 21 CFR Part 11).

Condition
The result of a comparison between two values.

Configure
To set the parameters in a report definition section.

Configure/Edit Access
Level of access, used in Insight accounts, that allows you to read,
command, and configure objects.

Constant
A value that can be added to trend reports for a future calculation.

Contact
Potential notification candidate for alarms and events. A contact can
have devices by which to be notified if these conditions arise. There
are two types of remote notification contacts: those who work with

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Insight on a daily basis (they already have Insight accounts and


access levels defined); and those who don’t work with Insight (they
don’t have Insight accounts), but who want to receive remote
notification for informational purposes only. See also Emergency
Contact.

A contact is a person who may be assigned to investigate an alarm


issue in the Alarm Issue Management application.

Control Properties
A feature of the Insight Graphics application that allows you to add
dynamic point information to a graphic in order to monitor and
command points graphically. Graphics controls include point
information blocks, analog bars, arrows, and graphic links.

COV
A method of sampling a point at a field panel. A COV is a value that
represents the amount of change in a measured reading of an analog
point (such as a temperature sensor reading). A trend method that
scans field panels for changes in a point value or state based on a
pre-defined limit.

COV-Based Samples
Trend samples taken by the field panel for specified points with a
Change-Of-Value (COV) in either point value (for analog points) or
point state (for digital points).

COV Limit
The amount of change that an analog point can encounter before the
Trend Definition Editor reports the change. The minimum value of
the COV limit is the value of the slope for the analog point. The
COV limit is entered in the Point Editor application when you define
points to Insight. This feature is only available for Firmware rev. 13
or higher.

CSO
Compliance Support Option.

CSV
See Comma Separated Value.

-D-

Data Markers
A bar (in bar graphs), dot or symbol (in line and scatter graphs), or
shape (in pie or doughnut graphs) that represent values.

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Database
An organized collection of data. The data within a database is
composed of records that you can create, read, modify, or delete
when you use the Insight system.

Database Transfer
The Insight application that allows you to manually upload and
download the Insight system databases between the Insight computer
and the field panels. This is necessary in the event of data loss at
either site due to a disruptive event such as hardware failure,
accidental erasure, or a field panel cold start.

Day Shift
A one-time substitution (shift) of one day’s schedule to another day.
For example, Monday’s scheduled equipment events may be shifted
to a Saturday. Scheduled reports are not affected.

Debugging
A process that tests the logic of the program for errors. A program is
said to have "bugs" when it fails to function properly.

Default Graphic
A graphic that displays automatically when you open the Graphics
application.

Delimited Format
A file format in which a delimiter, such as a comma or tab, separates
each field. Delimiters are used for transferring data to spreadsheets.

Delimiter
A character used to separate information.

Decision Tables
Provides a visual representation of how specific equipment interacts
with other equipment during each mode.

Destination
A group of devices on the MLN (such as Insight computers, field
panels, and event and alarm printers) that receive the same alarm
information. Point alarms are routed to every destination associated
with the destinations assigned to a point. See Alarm Destination.

Device
Alphanumeric pager, numeric pager, SMS, e-mail, or telephone
number by which a contact is notified of alarms or events.

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Dial-in
A field panel or other network device calling from a remote site to
the host Insight computer or to another device on the network.

Dial-out
A call from the host Insight computer, or host caller field panel on
the network, to a remote site.

Dial-up
The Insight feature that allows an Insight computer or field panel to
automatically call and connect to remote sites through a modem and
phone lines.

Digital Input (DI) Point


A point that receives a two-state signal such as On/Off and
Open/Closed. For example, low temperature detectors, differential
pressure switches, flow proof switch, and door closures.

Digital Output (DO) Point


A point that sends a two-state signal such as On/Off and
Open/Closed. For example, 2-speed fan motor starters, 2-position
valves and dampers, pump motor starters, lighting switches, and
chiller and boiler switches.

Digital Point
A point that accepts a two-state signal such as On/Off; Open/Close;
and Yes/No, to represent the status of field equipment like fans,
chillers, pumps, and flow proof switches. A digital point is either
latched (sustained contact) or pulsed (momentary contact). See
Analog Point.

Direct
One of three views the Insight computer has of a remote BLN trunk.
Direct instructs the Insight computer that the phone line to the field
panel is a Direct (RS232) connection or leased line (the modem is
not used). Direct is generally used for tool connection to a field
panel for development and testing. See Automatic; Explicit.

Direction
The arrow rotation that points in the direction of a point value. For
analog points, the arrow points in several directions depending on
the point value. For digital points, the arrow points in one of two
directions.

Discovery
The discovery or detection of BACnet devices and objects on
existing BACnet networks.

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Domain
A collection of computers and users that share a common database
and security policy that is stored on a Windows Server domain
controller. Each domain has a unique name.

Download
The transferring of data from the Insight computer to a field panel.
See Upload.

Duration
The length of time an equipment event takes, from the start time to
the end time, spanning up to seven days. The minimum duration is
one minute.

Dynamic COV
Dynamic Change of Value. The Field Panel will automatically
change the points (LAO or LAI) COV limit in an attempt to obtain
approximately 1 COV per 100 seconds. The algorithm will increase
the COV limit if the point is generating too many COV's and
decrease the COV limit if the point is more stable. Using Dynamic
COVs will optimize the number of COVs you receive from a point,
ensuring you receive important data without generating excessive
network traffic.
This feature applies to MECs\MBCs\RBCs\SCUs with Firmware
Revision 2.0 or later.

Dynamic Mode
The run mode of a dynamic graphic where graphic links are active
and you can command points. Dynamic Mode does not let you add
or edit control properties such as point information blocks, analog
bars, arrows, and graphic links. See Edit Mode.

Dynamic Graph
A type of graph that gathers point values, plots the values in a
graph, and updates the values on the graph as changes to point
values occur in the field panels.

Dynamic Graphic
A background graphic to which you add dynamic point information
such as point information blocks, analog bars, associated points, and
graphic links. A dynamic graphic represents information about
physical points. The background graphic does not become a
functioning dynamic graphic until you associate the background
objects (symbols) to either points or dynamic graphic files. It is at
this point that you can graphically monitor and command the point.
See Background Graphic.

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Dynamic Plotter
The Insight application that allows you to create a graph using
historical trend point values, dynamic point value changes, or a
combination of historical and dynamic values. You can use the graph
to analyze and report on point activity within your building system.

Dynamic Point Information


Information that you place on a background drawing to make it a
dynamic graphic. Dynamic point information includes information
blocks, analog bars, associated points, and graphic links.

-E-

Edit Access
A level of access, used in BLN accounts, that allows you to read,
command, and edit objects.

Edit Mode
The mode of a dynamic graphic where graphic links are inactive and
you cannot command points. When a dynamic graphic is in Edit
Mode, you can create and edit Graphics control such as point
information blocks, analog bars, arrows, graphic links or background
associated points. See Dynamic Mode.

Emergency Contact
Device or group that you want notified in case no contact is available
during escalation. See also Contact.

Enable
1) The System Profile command that connects a disabled device. 2)
The Trend Definition Editor command that enables a trend definition
so that collection takes place.

Engineering Units
Common units of measurement that represent a point value such as
pressure, temperature, voltage, and volume flow rate. For example,
degrees Fahrenheit (DEG F), degrees Celsius (DEG C) and
Kilowatt-hours (KWH).

Enhanced Alarm Management


A management process that allows you to route alarms to the
location best equipped to respond to the alarm based on alarm
priority (for example, routine maintenance or critical) or operating
times (for example, day mode or night mode).

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Enhanced Alarm Message


A custom message that can be printed or displayed for a point when
the point meets the conditions for enhanced alarming. The message
typically contains instructions on what to do when the point goes
into alarm.

Equipment
Consists of a group of contacts who can service a particular piece or
type of an equipment.

Equipment Event
The activation of a physical device, or group of devices, in the
Insight system in response to an activity in a specified zone.

Erase
Removing an acknowledged alarm from the Alarm Status window.
Only acknowledged alarms can be erased.

Escalation
Process by which the system calls notification devices in an
escalation list until the alarm or event notification is responded to.
See also Escalation List.

Escalation List
Contains notification devices and/or groups to be contacted upon an
alarm condition. Each device or group in an escalation list is referred
to as a “stage” of the escalation list. The system moves (escalates) to
the next stage in the list if the current one does not respond within a
specified amount of time. When a group is contained within an
escalation list, all members of that group are notified, even if the first
group member stops escalation. See also Escalation.

Event
Activation of a physical device, or group of devices, in the Insight
system in response to an activity in a specified zone.

Event Builder
The Insight application that defines the building activities that place
demands on equipment.

Event Printer
A device on the Management Level Network (MLN) that can be
designated print events in your building system.

Event Time Span


The number of day boundaries crossed by an equipment event. For

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example, an equipment event can have a 30 minute duration yet span


one day if it is scheduled from 23:45 p.m. to 00:15 a.m. (military
time format). The maximum event time span is seven days (0 to 6).
The Start Time is the time the event begins on day 0. The End Time
is the time the equipment event terminates on the last day in the
span.

Execute
To carry out the instruction of an expression or program.

Explicit
One of three views the Insight computer has of a remote BLN trunk.
Explicit instructs the Insight computer not to call the field panel
automatically so that you can connect and call manually (by explicit
command) as desired. Insight applications use Explicit to connect
and disconnect. See Automatic; Direct.

Expression
A statement that describes a set of variables, constants, or values
combined with arithmetic, logical, or relational operators.

-F-

FAILED
A point status indicator that indicates the field panel is unable to
command or read any of the physical points associated with a logical
point. This may be the result of hardware failure or a sensor reading
outside of its defined limits. See Point Status Indicator.

Field Panel
A device in the building system that contains a microprocessor that
allows it to monitor and operate building equipment. Field panels
provide a termination point for wiring from the field equipment
being controlled and the sensors that are monitored by the system.
Some types of field panels have the ability to pass information
directly to other field panels or a central computer. Types of field
panels include the Modular Building Controller (MBC), the Remote
Building Controller (RBC), and the Stand-alone Control Unit (SCU).

Field Panel GO
Field panels containing Field Panel GO firmware provide a
graphical user interface of a building automation system. You can
use it to monitor and control all the points and data across all the
APOGEE field panels on an Ethernet-Building Level Network. You
can load up to 10 custom graphics into a field panel containing Field
Panel GO firmware. Also, any TEC template graphic can be loaded
into a field panel containing Field Panel GO firmware if exported to
the panel.

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Field Panel Program


A PPCL program that is stored in a specific field panel. Multiple
PPCL programs can be run in a single MBC with firmware revision
2.0 or higher. Each program has its own set of line numbers, resident
points, and local variables. Field panel programs can be identified by
the extension .PCL (for example, COOLING PLANT
CONTROL.PCL).

Filter
A method of finding specific object names and types in an access
group.

Firmware
A program stored on silicon memory chips. The silicon chip is also
known as Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EPROM).
See Logical Firmware; Physical Firmware; Unitary Firmware; CM
Firmware.

FLN Device
A controller on the FLN that provides additional point capacity to a
field panel or provides individual room or mechanical equipment
control. FLN devices include Bus Interface Modules (BIMs), Digital
Point Units (DPUs), Multi-Point Units (MPUs), Terminal Control
Units (TCUs), Terminal Equipment Controllers (TECs), and Unitary
Controllers (UCs).

Floor Level Network (FLN)


A data communications link that passes information from an FLN
device to the BLN and from the BLN to an FLN device. The Floor
Level Network is used for the exchange of data on all floor levels of
a building.

FLN Trunk
A data communications link that allows the passing of information to
and from computers, field panels and other nodes (usually located
within one building) on the network. Also known as Floor Level
Network Trunk.

Flow Control
A modem communications feature that controls the flow of data in
and out of the modem’s transmit and receives data buffers.

Flowcharts
A diagram that shows the logical step-by-step progression of an
operation and how each decision or action leads to the next.

Foreign Device
A "foreign" device is a BACnet device that has an IP subnet address

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different from those already included on the BACnet/IP network that


the device seeks to join. The foreign device may be a full-time node
on the foreign subnet or may be a part-time participant.

-G-

Gain
A factor that converts pulses from a LPACI point into the
engineering units that represent point values. Gain can be from 0.001
to 5000.0 engineering units represented by each pulse count. Also
known as Gain-per-pulse-edge.

Graph Data
A graph that uses one of three types of data: historical, dynamic, and
combined. See Historical Graph; Dynamic Graph; Combined Graph.

Graph Type
The graphic format that represents data (line, scatter, or bar graph).
Dynamic Plotter has 14 different graph types.

Graph
A graphic representation of the values from selected points in your
building system.

Graphic Link
A symbol that connects one dynamic graphic to another to help you
organize related dynamic graphics.

Graphics
The Insight application that allows you to create color graphics of
your facility and equipment for monitoring and commanding points.

Group
Collection of remote notification devices for contacts.

-H-

Heartbeat
Feature of Remote Notification that informs predefined devices or
groups at regular intervals that the system is functioning properly.

Hierarchy
The organizational structure of points and point teams. See Parent
Level; Point Group Editor.

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High Alarm Limit


The highest value an analog point can reach before the point goes into
alarm. For example, a temperature point with the high limit set at 100° F
will go into alarm whenever the temperature exceeds 100° F.

Historical Graph
A graph that plots trend values that were gathered and stored at the
field panel and Insight computer.

Host Caller
The field panel in a remote network that is connected to, or enables,
a TIU (Terminal Interface Unit). As a host caller, the field panel
calls the Insight computer and receives calls from the Insight
computer.

Host Computer
The Insight computer that controls a communications network or
another Insight computer.

-I-

Information Block
See Point Information Block.

Informational Text
A user-defined message, entered in Point Editor, that provides
general information or instructions about a point that you can view if
the point goes into alarm. For example, the location of a point in a
building or a description of what the point is controlling or
monitoring. See Point Messages.

Input Point
A point that collects information from the environment (sensors) and
provides the information, or input, to the field panel. You use input
points to monitor your building equipment. Input points indicate
facility conditions such as temperature, relative humidity, flow,
static pressure, damper position, and the state of equipment. See
Output Point.

Insight
A software program, created by Landis and Staefa, that provides a
graphical approach to managing and controlling a building
environment using an easy-to-use-interface.

Insight Account
See User Account.

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Insight Main Menu


The main menu that allows you to move from one Insight
application to another. It also provides context sensitive application
launching through drag and drop.

Insight PC
One or more PC’s that have Insight software installed. Insight allows
you to control, monitor, and communicate with field panels in your
facility. System Profile allows you to define one master Insight PC
and any additional Insight PC’s you want to include in your network.

Instance Number
A unique number you specify for BACnet objects in a BACnet field
panel or device. The instance number combined with the object type
gives you the BACnet object ID. Object IDs must be unique per
BACnet device.

Integer
A whole number (non-decimal number).

Intercept
Factor that converts signals that the field panel uses for analog points
into the engineering units that represent point values. The formulas
used to calculate intercept are determined by the type of field panel
or FLN device that contains the point and type of input or output
device represented by the point.

Intersite
A different site where BACnet devices reside on a BACnet network.

Interval Trending
A trend method that scans field panels to collect and record values
and states for specified points at pre-determined time periods, for
example, once every 15 minutes or once every hour.

Intrasite
The same site where BACnet devices reside on a BACnet network.

Inverted Point
A point attribute that indicates that the commands used to energize
and de-energize a digital output point are reversed. You invert a
point in order to command equipment that runs when the point is in
the de-energized state.

-J-K-L-

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Job Site Name


The custom name of your building control network that appears in
the System Profile Tree. See Tree.

L2SL Point
A logical point type that commands one latched digital output point
and indicates the status of one latched digital input point (proof). For
example, two-state (On/Off) motors that provide proof, such as fan
motors. Also known as Logical Two State Latched point.

L2SP Point
A logical point type that commands two pulsed digital output points
(On and Off) and indicates the status of one optional latched digital
input point (proof). For example, two-state (On/Off) push-button
motors that provide proof, such as fan motors. Also known as
Logical Two State Pulsed point.

LAI Point
A logical point type that indicates the value of one analog input
point. For example, sensors that measure analog values such as flow
rate, temperature, pressure, and humidity. Also known as Logical
Analog Input point.

LAI Point
A logical point type that checks the current value of one analog input
point. LAI points measure analog input values from sensors such as
temperature, flow, pressure, and humidity. Also known as Logical
Analog Input point.

LAO Point
A logical point type that commands one analog output point. For
example, damper positioners, valve positioners, and motor speed
control. Also known as Logical Analog Output point.

LAO Point
A logical point type that commands one analog output point. You
can use a LAO point to position dampers, valves, and control motors
to a desired setting. Also known as Logical Analog Output point.

Latched
A digital point attribute that indicates that the point changes states by
using a switch (sustained contact with a physical device), such as
when you turn a light on.

LDI Point
A logical point type that indicates the status of one latched digital
input point for a two state (On/Off) device. For example, door

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contacts, smoke and low temperature detectors, damper end


switches, differential pressure switches, and flow and fan proof
switches. Also known as Logical Digital Input point.

LDO Point
A logical point type that commands one latched digital output point
for a two state (On/Off) device. For example, lighting, chiller, and
boiler switches, fan and pump motor starters, and 2-position valves
and dampers. Also known as Logical Digital Output point.

Legend
A key that displays the color assigned to the point, point name,
current value, and engineering units. You can decide whether or not
to display the legend under the graph.

LENUM Point
A logical point type that commands points that have multiple values
or states and each value or state has text assigned to it. An LENUM
point is a virtual point that stores operational values for applications
such as SSTO. Also known as Logical Enumerated point.

Less Than (LT)


PPCL relational operator that compares two values to determine if
the first value (value1) is less than the second value (value2). The
comparison between the two values is true if value1 is less than
value2.

Less Than Or Equal To (LE)


PPCL relational operator that compares two values to determine if
the first value (value1) is less than or equal to the second value
(value2). The comparison between the two values is true if value1 is
less than or equal to value2.

Level Delay
The amount of time the system waits to verify that the point is in
alarm once the value crosses an alarm level. The alarm is only
reported if the value of the point is in alarm when the delay timer
expires. This will suppress alarms when the point is bouncing above
and below the alarm level.

LFSSL Point
A logical point type that commands two latched digital output points
(Fast/Stop and Slow/Stop) and indicates the status of one optional
latched digital input point (proof). For example, three state
(Fast/Slow/Stop) motors that provide proof, such as two-speed fan
motors. Also known as Logical Fast/Slow/Stop Latched point.

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LFSSP Point
A logical point type that commands three pulsed digital output points
(Fast, Slow, and Stop) and indicates the status of one optional
latched digital input point (proof). For example, three state
(Fast/Slow/Stop) push-button motors that provide proof, such as
two-speed fan motors. Also known as Logical Fast/Slow/Stop Pulsed
point.

Line
A statement of program code assigned to a unique line number.

Local Variable
Locations within each field panel that store values for PPCL
programs. Local variables function like virtual points except that
they require less memory, are predefined, and cannot be directly
displayed. Local variables can contain analog or digital values.

Logical Firmware
Designed to accept engineering values (Deg F, kPa, psi) for
parameters in PPCL commands.

Logical Point
Represents a piece of equipment or a building condition you want
Insight to monitor or control. Each logical point can have one or
more physical and/or virtual points associated with it. The point
grouping is referred to by a single, unique logical point name. You
reference the logical point when you use Insight to command,
monitor, and store information for points.

Logical Point Type


An attribute that identifies the number and type (DI, DO, AI, or AO)
of physical and/or virtual points that are associated with the logical
point. When adding a point to Insight, you must assign it a logical
point type.

Logoff
Process that terminates your Insight session.

Logon
Process that allows you to access Insight applications and databases
on the current network by entering your operator name and
password.

LOOAL Point
A logical point type that commands two latched digital output points
(On/Off and Auto) and indicates the status of one optional latched
digital input point (proof). For example, three state (On/Off/Auto)

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motors that provide proof, such as fan motors. Also known as


Logical On/Off/Auto Latched point.

LOOAP Point
A logical point type that commands two pulsed digital output points
(On and Off) and one latched digital output point (Auto). This point
can also indicate the status of one optional latched digital input point
(proof). For example, three state (On/Off/Auto) push-button motors
that provide proof, such as fan and pump motors. Also known as
Logical On/Off/Auto Pulsed point.

Low Alarm Limit


The lowest value that an analog point can reach before the point goes
into alarm. For example, a temperature point with a low alarm limit of
35.0 goes into alarm whenever the temperature falls below 35° F.

LPACI Point
A logical point type that counts the number of pulses (momentary
contacts) for one digital point. For example, a LPACI point can track
electrical consumption by totaling the number of contact closures
from a KWH power meter or a flow meter. You can use an LPACI
point to total the amount of time a point remains energized. Also
known as Logical Pulse Accumulator Input point.

L-type Sensor
An analog input sensor that is terminated on a FLN device. See Floor
Level Network.

-M-

Man Machine Interface (MMI)


The terminal and its interface program that allows you to
communicate with a field panel or equipment controller.

Management Level Network (MLN)


The communications connection between individual Insight
computers in a System 600 building control system.

Manual Collection
An option in the Trend Definition Editor that allows you to
immediately collect trend data for the selected trend definition.

Mass Storage Device


An Insight computer that stores information from field panels.
Changes in field panel storage buffers are uploaded automatically to
the mass storage Insight computer. If a field panel loses power, the
mass storage device downloads data to restore the field panel.

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Master-Slave/Token-Passing (MS/TP)
Master-Slave/Token-Passing (MS/TP). The BACnet MS/TP protocol
uses a token-passing scheme to control access to a bus network. A
Master device that holds the token can initiate the transmission of a
data frame. All other master and slave devices on the network can
respond to requests from this master by transmitting data.

Metafile
A type of graphic that stores image information as a series of
commands, and then interprets and displays it as an image by the
computer software. Metafiles typically use less space than
bitmapped images.

MLN
See Management Level Network.

MMI
See Man Machine Interface.

Mode
Modes allow you to establish different set points, alarm levels, alarm
destinations, and alarm messages for different building conditions (such
as when the building is unoccupied). For points using enhanced
alarming, you can define a day mode, night mode, and up to four special
modes (for example a warm-up mode). The mode affects where the
point goes into alarm and where the alarm is routed.

Mode Delay
Amount of time, in minutes, required for the system to reach a new set
point and stabilize after a mode change. For example, a 15 minute
mode delay would allow a room 15 minutes to reach its day
temperature set point of 70° from the night set point of 68°, before the
field panel checks that the new set point is achieved. If the set point is
not achieved after the mode delay, the point goes into alarm.

Mode Point
A virtual LAO point whose value indicates the mode that an
enhanced alarming point is using. For each mode point, you can
define a day mode (0), night mode (1), and up to four special modes
(2, 3, 4, and 5), for example a warm-up mode. The value of the mode
point can be changed by various system conditions such as Time-Of-
Day control schedule, a PPCL program, or the position of a switch.

Modem
A device that transmits and receives data through a communication
channel, often through telephone lines.

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Modular Programming
A method of programming that logically organizes code into
common functions, such as operational modes.

Monitoring Analog Bar


Analog bar that displays the current value of a point and updates
information as the point changes.

MS/TP
See Master-Slave/Token-Passing.

-N-

Name
Unique name assigned to an object that identifies the object in
Insight. For objects in MBCs with firmware revision 2.0 or higher,
the name can contain up to 30 characters, uppercase and lowercase
letters, numbers, periods and spaces. Names can be changed.

Network
A collection of Insight computers, field panels, printers, and
equipment controllers that are electronically and physically
connected to communicate with each other for sharing building
control data.

Network Protocol
A set of rules that governs the way data is transferred across a
network.

No Access
Level of access, used in Insight and BLN accounts, that does not allow
you to see objects, Insight applications, or field panel functions.

Normal
A point state that indicates a point is in regular operation. The
point’s value and alarm conditions can be updated by control
programs or operator commands. See Point State.

Normally Closed (NC)


A digital input point attribute that indicates the contacts for the point
are wired to be closed when no energy is applied to the point.

Notification Class
Contains information required for the distribution of event
notifications from a BACnet device. Defines a set of BACnet
devices and workstations to receive events from BACnet object

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assigned to the Notification Class Object.

Notification Device
See Device.

Null
NULL means that there is no command associated with the point's
Present Value property.

Null Value
Instructs the Insight software to stop using an exception schedule
and to go back (fall back) to the normal weekly schedule. If the
weekly schedule is not defined, the schedule default is used.

-O-

Object
1) An entry in your database, composed of single or multiple
elements. 2) Points, PPCL programs, graphics, zone definitions,
event definitions, plots, field panels, TECs, Unitary Controllers, and
report definitions that you can view or manipulate. 3) A symbol
created in the background drawing, that appears in the dynamic
graphic and represents a specific unit of HVAC equipment like a fan,
chiller, boiler, sensor, and damper. See Background Object.

Object Selector
The Insight application that allows you to retrieve a list of the objects
available to use with other Insight applications. Objects can include
points, point groups, PPCL programs, graphics, zone definitions, event
definitions, plots, field panels, TECs, Unitary Controllers, and report
definitions that have been defined in Insight.

Offset
A value above or below the set point that an analog point must cross
in order to be in a particular alarm level range so an enhanced alarm
can be issued at that level. The offsets define the ranges of alarm
levels. A point enters different alarm levels as it moves progressively
further away from the set point and crosses different offsets.

OPER (Operator)
A command priority that indicates an operator has direct control for
commanding the point to a new value. The sequence of operation
that has been set up in the control program is overridden. OPER is
the highest command priority. The control program cannot command
the point until it is released to a lower priority. See Command
Priority.

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Operator Disabled for Alarming


A point state that indicates that the point cannot report an alarm because
the alarm reporting capabilities have been disabled by an operator. The
point cannot report alarms until it is taken out of the Disabled for
Alarming state by an operator or control program. See Point State.

Operator Initials
One to three unique characters that identify a user in Insight. A
user’s initials display in logs and reports to identify the user’s
activities within the building system.

Optimization
Feature of the Remote Notification application that enables you to
minimize the amount of notifications sent in the case of many
alarms. Instead of sending out a separate notification for each alarm,
the system sends a single notification that indicates the number of
alarms.

Order of Precedence
The order in which operators (arithmetic, relational, logical, and
special function) are evaluated in a command statement. Operators
that have a higher precedence are evaluated before operators that are
at a lower precedence. If all the operators in the statement have
equivalent precedence levels, then the operators are evaluated from
left to right.

Orientation
The position of an analog bar in the dynamic graphic. An analog bar
can have one of two orientations: vertical or horizontal. Vertical
displays the analog bar taller than it is wide; horizontal displays the
analog bar wider that it is tall.

Out of Service
A point state that indicates that the point has been disabled by an
operator. The point value and alarm conditions cannot be updated by
operator commands or control programs and the point may enter the
Failed state. See Point State.

Output Point
A point that acts upon the building equipment and is controlled by
signals, or output, from the field panel. You use output points to
command equipment such as fans, pumps, chillers, valves, lights,
and dampers. See Input Point.

-P-

Parent Graphic
A dynamic graphic designated to have other graphics relate to it. For

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example, a mechanical room that contains separate systems (and


graphics) for boilers and chillers.

Parent Level
A higher-level point in the data hierarchy. See Hierarchy.

Partner
An Insight computer (or field panel) with a modem. A partner
provides communications with a remote BLN. See Building Level
Network.

PDL
A command priority that indicates a point is commanded by a Peak
Demand Limiting (PDL) control program. PDL control is a special
energy management program that limits electrical demand by turning
off electrical loads when demand approaches a set point (for
example, shutting down an air handling unit if it approaches a set
point). PDL is the fourth highest command priority level.

Personality
Defines how an Insight computer is connected to, and released from,
a remote BLN trunk. Personality is the Insight computers view of the
remote BLN. The combination of the three personalities (Automatic,
Direct, and Explicit) gives you flexibility in configuring the remote
BLN. See Automatic, Direct, and Explicit.

Physical Firmware
Designed to accept values for parameters in PPCL commands
derived from formulas and calculations.

Physical Point
A piece of field equipment plus its physical connection to a unique
termination in the field panel. For example, a fan motor starter wired
to a single termination in a field panel. A physical point is classified as
a digital input, digital output, analog input, or analog output.

PIB
See Point Information Block.

Pivot Point
The point that the arrow rotates around. You can display or omit the
pivot point in the arrow.

Point
A piece of equipment (physical) or a value (virtual) that you want
Insight to monitor or control. Points are physical (a room temperature
sensor), virtual (a room temperature set point), digital (two states),
analog (more than two states), input (receives) or output (sends). All

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points are classified as logical. One or more physical and/or virtual


points can be associated with each logical point.

Point Alarm
A way for Insight to notify you that the value of a point is outside of
its normal operating range and some action must be taken to correct
the situation.

Point Address
Unique address defined for each physical and virtual point
associated with a logical point. The address identifies where a
physical point terminates within a field panel and the network where
the point information is transferred to.

Point Attribute
The characteristics that define a point, such as point address, point
state, and command priority.

Point Database
A collection of information that describes each point in the building
system that Insight controls. The point database contains logical
points.

Point Descriptor
Text that provides an additional explanation about the application or
location of the point and helps you to identify the point on Insight
windows and reports.

Point Details
The Insight application that displays information about the
characteristics of a point defined in the point database. Characteristics
include point name, description, address, and alarm characteristics.

Point Editor
The Insight application that allows you to add, edit, and delete points in
the Insight Point database. The point database contains the points and
their characteristics defined in your building control system.

Point Group
A cluster of related points grouped logically in order to organize the
points in your system.

Point Information Block


A block of text on a dynamic graphic that contains point name, point
description, and point state or value. Also known as PIB.

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Point Markers
A symbol (circle, triangle, square) that marks an exact value plotted
on the graph

Point Messages
Messages that provide additional information about points in your
building system. These messages are attached to points and give
instructions or general information concerning the point alarm.
There are three types of point messages. See Point Memo;
Information Text; Alarm Message.

Point Memo
A message you can attach to a point alarm displaying in the Alarm
Status window. You can use a point memo to pass along information
concerning a point that is not relayed in an alarm message or
informational text. Point memos can be read by any Insight on the
Building Level Network (BLN).

Point Specific Graphic


A dynamic graphic defined to a specific point in the Point Editor
application.

Point State
A point attribute that indicates the current condition assigned to a
logical point. The point states are: Normal, Proofing, Alarm, Alarm
by Command, Operator Disabled for Alarming, Program Disabled
for Alarming, Out of Service, and Failed.

Point Type
The logical point classification that indicates whether the point is
input or output, analog or digital, and the number of physical points
used. You must assign a point type to each point that you add to
Insight. The information that Insight requires you to specify for the
point depends on the point type. Also known as Logical Point Type.

Point Value
A point attribute that indicates the last commanded state (such as
On) or the last measured reading (such as a temperature sensor
reading) of a logical point. For analog point types, the current value
is displayed in engineering units, such as DEG F, GPM, and KWH.
For digital point types, the value is displayed as a state, such as On,
Off, Auto, Fast, and Slow.

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Powers Process Control Language (PPCL)


A programming language used to write field panel control programs
for building control and energy management functions. PPCL
consists of various types of statements, each performing a different
task. These statements become ordered instructions called control
programs that are executed at the field panel. These control
programs instruct the field panel on how to perform calculations,
evaluate control strategies, performed time based actions, and
command points.

Primary Contact
A primary contact is the main trades person responsible for a
particular piece of equipment or equipment group. The primary
contact displays in bold font in the system tree of the Alarm Issue
Management Editor.

Priority
See Command Priority.

Program
A collection of instructions combined in a logical order to
accomplish a specific task in PPCL.

Program Editor
An Insight application you can use to create control programs with
the Powers Process Control Language (PPCL).

Proof Delay Time


The number of seconds before a field panel checks the status of a
proof after the point is commanded to a new value. If the point is
alarmable and the proof value does not correspond to the
commanded value within the delay time, the point goes into alarm.

Proof Point
A digital input point that is monitored to verify equipment is
commanded successfully. If the value of a proof does not correspond
to the commanded value of an associated output point within a
specific proof delay time, the field panel puts the point into alarm.
For example, proof points are used for flow proof switches and door
contacts.

Proofing State
A point attribute that indicates the field panel is waiting to verify that
the value of a proof point corresponds to the commanded value of an
associated output point. The point remains in this state for as long as
the proof delay time has been specified. See Proof Delay Time.

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Protocol 2
The communications trunk that enables Insight computers, field
panels, and equipment controllers to communicate with each other
and with other devices on the network. Also known as P2.

Pseudocode
A non-syntactical description of program logic.

Pulsed
A digital point attribute that indicates the point is changing states by
sending a series of electrical pulses (momentary changes in voltage),
such as when you press a push-button on a fan motor starter.

Purge
A method to permanently delete a set of cleared alarm issues stored
on your system.

-Q-

Query
An inquiry about information in the Insight database. You initiate a
query by selecting specific criteria that is used to search through the
database for information matching your criteria.

-R-

Read Only Access


Level of access, used in Insight and BLN accounts, that allows you
to view objects.

Refresh
Refreshes the Alarm Issue Management screen to include new alarm
entries recently received into the Insight database.

Relinquish Default
Displays the relinquish (release) default value for the BACnet point.
A BACnet point is set to the Relinquish Default setting when there
are no commands for BACnet priorities 1 through 16.

Remote Destination Member


Remote Insight computers and field panels that deliver messages
assigned to a destination. See Destination Member.

Remote Site
A network of Insight computers, field panels, and equipment
controllers with a modem and a Terminal Interface Unit (TIU) to

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allow trunk connection. The remote site must match the Host ID
defined in the field panel. The remote site must also be the same
Host ID for all remote networks in your building control system.
Also known as Dial-up Network. See Dial-up.

Replacement Day Schedule


A predefined daily schedule that replaces a scheduled day.
Replacement days are used during holidays (for example, replace the
Monday schedule with the Christmas schedule on December 25th),
or to change the schedule in response to unpredictable circumstances
(for example, Monday is replaced with Snow Day). Scheduled
reports are not affected by replacement schedules.

Remote Notification
An Insight application that allows Insight to initiate contact with a
notification device in order to provide alarm and event information.
Remote notification contacts can check system status and stop
notification/escalation.

Report Builder
The Insight application you use to configure report definitions. Once
you configure the report definition, you can save the report
definition for later use, run the report, or schedule the report. See
Report Viewer.

Report Definition Section


A framed area within a report definition where you configure the
parameters of a report.

Report Definition
Report templates that provide all the information necessary for
creating a report. Each report definition consists of sections you can
configure, such as what information displays in the report, where the
report gets the information, and how the report presents the
information. Each report definition uses different sections.

Report Viewer
The Insight application that reads the configuration of a report
definition and displays a report based on the configurations. See
Report Builder.

Reserved Words
Words that are reserved for specific functions and cannot be used as
point names.

Resident Point
A predefined logical point that permanently resides in the PPCL
program in the field panel. Insight references resident points to

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provide time-based and system status information such as checking


the current time and date. Resident points can also monitor alarms,
modes of operation, and communications between nodes. Examples
of resident points include alarm count (ALMCNT), battery status
($BATT), day of the month (DAYOFM), and military time (TIME).
Also known as Reserved Points.

Resolve
Indicates that all work on the alarm issue is complete, the point has
returned to NORMAL, and is no longer open.

Restore
Copying backed up data to the Insight computer. Current data on
Insight is overwritten when data is restored.

Retrieving
Obtaining a list of objects that result from a search.

Routing
Altering the flow of a program by transferring control to a line of the
program other than the next sequential line number.

-S-

Scheduled Report
A report assigned to the calendar. Reports can be scheduled as one-
time or repetitive occurrences: daily, weekly, monthly, end-of-
month, or end-of-quarter.

Scheduler
The Insight application that allows you to schedule events, reports
and trend collection on the Insight calendar. Schedules contain start
and stop times for equipment events and start times for reports and
trend collection. See Insight Calendar.

SDL
See System Default Language.

Secondary Contact
The alternate trades person chosen when the primary contact is
unavailable to investigate an alarm issue.

Secure Mode TEC


21-CFR-Part 11 TECs featuring a setting that, when enabled,
prevents users from accessing the TEC through its RTS port. See
also Terminal Equipment Controller.

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Sensor
A device that monitors or measures items such as temperature,
relative humidity, flow, and pressure.

Set Point
A virtual point that stores a point value such as a temperature setting.
Points that monitor inputs, such as temperature, report actual values.
For the system to make adjustments to control equipment, the system
must compare the actual point value to the desired value (set point).
When you want to change a building condition, you command a
single set point rather than having to command several physical
points.

Shifted Day
Substitutes, or shifts the scheduled equipment events from one
scheduled day to another. Reports and one-time equipment events
are not shifted from the donor day. All equipment events on the
receiving day, except one-time equipment events, are overridden.
Reports on the receiving day are not affected.

Slope
Numeric factor that converts the signals passed from the field panel
(for LAI and LAO points) into the engineering units that represent
point values. The formula that calculates the slope of an LAI or LAO
point is determined by: the type of field panel or LAN the point is
defined in; the type of physical input or output device represented by
the point; and whether the point is a physical point or a virtual point.

Slope Intercept Calculator


A feature of the Point Editor application that automatically
calculates the slope and intercept for LAI and LAO points.

SMOKE
A command priority indicating that a point is commanded by a special
smoke control program that monitors smoke alarms. SMOKE is the
second highest command priority. See Command Priority.

SMS
Short Message Service. The transmission of short text messages to
and from a device, such as a mobile phone. Once a message is sent, a
Short Message Service Center (SMSC) receives it. The SMSC then
sends the message to the appropriate device. See also Device.

SMTP
Simple Mail Transfer Protocol. Used in sending and receiving e-mail.

Snapshot
A feature that creates a bitmap image of a graph and copies the

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image to the Clipboard.

Soft Controller
An Insight option that allows you to create and command points, run
PPCL, send and receive COVs, run equipment scheduler, and trend
points without a physical panel or physical wiring. In essence, a Soft
Controller is a virtual field panel with many capabilities normally
associated with physical field panels.

SOP
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are any related
documentation for the Alarm Issue Management application for
specific points, equipment, or generic information.

Span
A time measurement describing the number of day boundaries
crossed by an event.

Standard Alarm Management


An alarm management strategy used for points in all field panels and
with any firmware revision. Standard alarming can be defined with
or without destinations. If destinations are not defined, alarms are
sent to the devices associated with the default Destination 0, or up to
four destinations can be defined and alarms are sent to the devices in
the destinations.

Standard Alarm Message


A custom message that can be printed or displayed for a point when
the point goes into standard alarm. The message typically contains
instructions on what to do and who to contact when the point goes
into alarm.

State
The current condition of a digital point. For example, On or Off,
Energized or De-energized.

State Colors
The colors you specify to represent the different states (On, Off,
Open, Closed) of a point.

State Control
A dial symbol that monitors and/or commands the values of a digital
point. Digital points accept two-state signals, such as On/Off,
Open/Close, and Yes/No, three-state signals such as OFF/SLOW/FAST,
or multi-state signals such as LENUM (Home/Car/Office/Vacation.).
The state-signal represents the status of field equipment such as fans,
chillers, pumps, and flow proof switches.

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State Text
Descriptive text that represents the different state of a point, such as On
and Off, or Start and Stop. Text assigned to a point state is displayed
when you are viewing the point state in Insight applications.

Statement
A collection of instructions to the computer in order to perform an
operation.

Subroutine
A portion of program code referenced repeatedly through one pass of
the program.

Supervised Object
Object that presents an additional warning and/or requires a user and/or
supervisor password in order to be edited or deleted. This protects
against inadvertent changes damaging critical system functions, as well
as enabling enhanced logging on objects to provide audit trails.
Depending on how the object is set up, users attempting to edit/delete
the object will either be warned and allowed to continue, be warned and
not allowed to continue if they don't have the Compliance Support
Option enabled, or be warned and also required to re-enter their user
password and/or have a supervisor enter a password to continue. In
addition, users are required to explain why the change was made. In
order to designate objects as supervised, you must have the Compliance
Support Option enabled. See also Compliance Support Option.

Supervisor
Users given supervisor rights over all objects that they have Configure
access to. When they authorize changes, they enter their Windows User
Name and Password. In order to designate users as supervisors, you
must have have Configure/Edit access to User Accounts and the
Compliance Support Option enabled. Administrator accounts are not
automatically designated as Supervisors. See also Compliance Support
Option.

System Activity Log


The Insight application that allows you to monitor and print reports
about the activities that are logged in your system. Activities include
alarm acknowledgment, object changes, data uploads and
downloads, and log on and log off activity. You can determine
which information to display on your screen or send to your printer.
Changes made to the Point database are recorded in the System
Activity Log.

System Name
Unique name assigned to an object that identifies the object in
Insight. For objects in MBCs with firmware revision 2.0 or higher,
the system name can contain up to 30 characters, uppercase and
lowercase letters, numbers, periods and spaces. System names can

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not be changed.

System Profile
The Insight application that gives you graphical, system-wide control for
defining, configuring, and maintaining your entire building control
network. System Profile allows you to define network levels and
devices, configure remote communications parameters, determine alarm
destinations, and set global system parameters.

-T-

TAPI
Telephony API. Application Programming Interface for telephony.
See also Telephony.

TCP/IP
Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol. Set of protocols
and standards that is responsible for interpreting data packets over
the network and communicating them to any computer on the
network. The TCP/IP protocol must be installed on the Insight
workstation in order for Insight to run properly.

TEC
See Terminal Equipment Controller.

Telephony
Technology associated with the point-to-point electronic transmission of
information using a telephone or pager. See also TAPI.

Terminal Equipment Controller (TEC)


An application-specific equipment controller used in pressure
independent Variable Air Volume (VAV) applications. See also
Secure Mode TEC.

Text-to-Speech
Software that converts text and control sequences into synthesized
speech.

Thermistor
A thermo-electric element with an electrical resistance that falls
rapidly and predictably with the rise of temperature.

Thumb
An Object Selector utility that allows you to quickly scroll (thumb)
through a long list by opening a small window along the list box
scroll bar. Releasing the thumb puts the object displayed in the small
window at the top of the object list.

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Time-Based Sample
Interval trend samples taken by the field panel for specified points at
a defined interval, such as every 15 minutes.

Time-of-Day (TOD) Editor


The Insight application that enables you to automatically command
points based on a daily schedule or yearly calendar.

To-Fault
A BACnet event indicating that the BACnet object (point) has
transitioned to the Fault state from some other state for the recipient
or device. A BACnet object may or may not require
acknowledgement of this event by a user.

To-Normal
A BACnet event indicating that the BACnet object (point) has
transitioned to the Normal state from some other state for the
recipient or device. A BACnet object may or may not require
acknowledgement of this event by a user.

To-OffNormal
A BACnet event indicating that the BACnet object (point) has
transitioned to the OffNormal state from some other state for the
recipient or device. OffNormal states in BACnet are: OffNormal,
high-limit, low-limit, and life-safety-alarm. A BACnet object may or
may not require acknowledgement of this event by a user.

Totalization
A point attribute that indicates the point’s value is totaled in either
days, hours, minutes, or seconds. Totalization allows the system to
track point information such as total run time for a fan or pump, or
total volume from a flow rate sensor.

Transmission Fault
An unsuccessful transfer of a record in a database.

Tree
A feature of the Insight System Profile application that displays your
building control network and devices in a graphical overview
showing the structure of the entire network. Each network level
(MLN, BLN, and FLN) and each device (Insight computer, field
panel, printer, modem, TEC, and UC) is represented by a unique
icon. The Device toolbar in the Tree contains the icons that let you
graphically add new devices, change existing ones, and delete
devices. You can copy and move network levels and devices by
dragging and dropping them in the Tree.

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Trend Buffer
The storage area in a field panel where trend samples are stored
temporarily before they are uploaded and collected by the Insight
computer.

Trend Data
Historic trend information collected at the field panel for a point you
specified. Trend data is either: (1) the current value for a point
collected when the Change-Of-Value (COV) trend method is used,
or (2) the current value or state for a point collected at a precise
interval when the Interval trend method is used. Trend data can be
uploaded from the field panel to the Insight computer for storage and
reporting, and the data can be converted to several spreadsheet
formats for further analysis and reporting.

Trend Data Conversion


A feature of the Trend Definition Editor application that allows you
to convert collected trend data to a format compatible with
spreadsheet applications.

Trend Data Point


An object defined by the Trend Definition Editor application that
collects performance data.

Trend Definition
Defines the method for collecting trend data from the field panel.

Trend Definition Editor


The Insight application that allows you to collect information about how
your building control equipment is operating over a specified time
period. With the Trend Definition Editor you define trend definitions
that provide a historical record of both analog and digital point activity.
You can also monitor the changes in value or state for a point. You
define whether point data at the field panel is sampled by (time interval)
trending or by (Change-Of-Value) trending.

Trended Point
A point in your building control system that has at least one trend
definition (Interval or COV) associated with it.

Trigger
Occurrence that initiates a remote notification, such as an alarm or event.

-U-

Unitary Controller (UC)


A microprocessor-based equipment controller that can be

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Insight User Guide User Accounts

programmed to coordinate the activity of mechanical equipment that


controls your building control system.

Unitary Firmware
Firmware that uses a subset of PPCL commands found in logical
firmware.

Uploading Data
The transferring of data from the field panel to the Insight computer.
See Download.

User Accounts
The Insight application used to manage access and security for
Insight and field panels on a specified Building Level Network
(BLN). By creating individual accounts, a system administrator can
grant users access to objects and applications in any Insight
computer on the Management Level network (MLN), as well as
objects and functions residing in field panels on a specified BLN.

User Name
A unique name used for identification during logon; can contain a
maximum of 40 characters.

-V-

Value
Indicates the last commanded state of the point, for example On or
Off, or the last measured reading for an analog point, for example,
degrees Fahrenheit. For analog points, value is displayed in
engineering units (DEG F, GPM, and KWH). For digital points,
value is displayed as a state (Off, On, Auto, Fast, and Slow).

Virtual Point
A “dummy” digital output point or analog output point that resides
in a field panel but does not have a physical connection to a piece of
equipment. Virtual points store operational values and are used as set
points, trigger points, and mode points. The value of a virtual point
can be set by a control program instruction or by an operator. Virtual
points are primarily used in PPCL.

-W-

Wildcard
A special replacement character that saves you time when searching
for object names by narrowing the list of all names. A wildcard
allows you to specify general search criteria for an object name
instead of specific search criteria. For example a (*) replaces any
text, a (?) replaces one character only, and [0 - 9]* returns all points
starting with 0 through 9.

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Wire Resistance
Applies to LAI points. An adjustment to a point’s intercept value to
compensate for long runs of wire. This applies in cases where the
resistance of the sensor wire is significant enough to affect the
point’s engineering value.

X-Y-Z

Xon/Xoff
Standard ASCII control characters used to tell a modem to start or
stop the transmission of data.

Zone
A defined area in your building system, such as a building, floor, or
room.

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