Building Automation Full System Replacements
A full BAS replacement means a clean slate, modern field controllers, a current supervisory platform, and no proprietary lock-in.
Building Automation Full System Replacements
ACIS Inc provides complete building automation system replacements to commercial facilities across Dallas, Fort Worth & Houston, removing outdated or failing controls infrastructure and replacing it with a fully engineered, open-source BAS designed for the facility’s current and future operational needs.
When a front-end upgrade or targeted repair is no longer enough, a full system replacement delivers a clean slate, modern field controllers, a current supervisory platform, and a controls architecture built to support energy performance, system integration, and facility management for years to come.
When a Full System Replacement Is the Right Decision
Not every building automation problem can be solved at the front end. When the underlying field controllers, sensors, and wiring infrastructure have degraded beyond reliable operation, a full BAS replacement is the more appropriate, and often more cost-effective, long-term solution.
Common indicators that a full replacement warrant’s consideration include:
- Field controllers that are obsolete, unsupported, or no longer available for replacement
- Chronic system failures that patching and repair can no longer resolve
- A proprietary system that prevents integration with new equipment or third-party platforms
- Lack of visibility into key building systems due to failed communication or missing points
- Energy performance that has degraded significantly from design intent
- A facility undergoing major renovation or mechanical system replacement where a BAS redesign is practical
ACIS Inc’s BAS team helps facilities evaluate where they fall on the spectrum between upgrade and full replacement, providing an honest assessment of existing conditions so the right decision can be made based on actual system state and long-term operational goals.
Open-Source, Non-Proprietary System Design
Every full BAS replacement ACIS Inc delivers is built on open-source, non-proprietary platforms. This means open procurement of all hardware and software, no single-vendor lock-in, no proprietary service agreements, and no barriers to integrating equipment from different manufacturers as the facility evolves.
Our preferred open control platforms are:
- Distech Controls
- Honeywell WEBs
- Johnson Controls Facility Explorer (FX)
- ABB
ACIS Inc has been committed to the Tridium Niagara framework since 2007 and maintains current certifications across all preferred platforms through annual factory training. Facilities receive systems built on broadly supported, widely serviced technology, not platforms that will be difficult to find qualified technicians for in five years.
What a Full BAS Replacement Includes
System Design & Engineering
A full BAS replacement begins with a thorough evaluation of the facility’s mechanical systems, existing controls infrastructure, and operational requirements. ACIS Inc’s BAS engineers develop controls architecture that addresses current needs while building in the flexibility to accommodate future equipment changes, energy programs, and system expansions.
Field Controller Replacement
All field-level controllers, the devices that directly manage HVAC equipment, VAV boxes, AHUs, chillers, boilers, and other building systems, are replaced with current, open-protocol hardware. Controllers are selected based on the specific application, equipment compatibility, and communication requirements of each system.
Wiring & Communication Infrastructure
Field wiring, communication buses, and network infrastructure are evaluated and upgraded as needed to support reliable communication between new field devices and the supervisory platform. Properly installed communication infrastructure is foundational to BAS performance, and it’s an area where shortcuts taken during installation create long-term reliability problems.
Front End Platform & Graphics
A new supervisory front end is configured with clear, accurate graphics that reflect the facility’s actual systems and layouts. Setpoints, schedules, alarm configurations, and trending are established during commissioning, giving facility staff a fully functional, well-organized interface from day one.
Integration with Existing & New Equipment
Open-protocol BAS platforms support integration across HVAC equipment, lighting controls, access systems, and other building technologies. ACIS Inc configures integrations as part of the replacement project, ensuring the new system communicates with all relevant equipment and establishes the foundation for expanded automation over time.
Commissioning & Staff Training
Every full BAS replacement is commissioned systematically, verifying that all points read accurately, sequences operate as designed, alarms route correctly, and the front end reflects actual building conditions. Facility staff receive hands-on training on the new platform before the project closes, so the system is being used effectively from the start.
Remote Monitoring & Support
Every full BAS replacement includes remote connection capability, configured to work within your facility’s IT infrastructure, including coordination with your ISP, gateways, and firewalls as needed. Once commissioned, your new system can be monitored remotely, allowing our BAS team to identify issues and route them to the right service team immediately.
For facilities with HVAC preventive maintenance agreements, this creates a direct line between the BAS and mechanical teams from day one. When a mechanical issue shows up in the system, it gets routed straight to the technicians who can address it.
Full System Replacement Process
- Site assessment. Evaluate existing BAS, mechanical systems, and facility operational requirements.
- System design. Develop controls architecture, equipment selections, and integration plan.
- Project planning. Establish installation schedule to minimize disruption to facility operations.
- Field installation. Replace controllers, wiring, and communication infrastructure.
- Front end configuration. Build graphics, configure points, schedules, alarms, and trends.
- Integration testing. Verify communication across all field devices and connected systems.
- Commissioning. Validate sequences, confirm system operation, and document all setpoints.
- Training. Train facility staff on new platform operation and alarm management.
The Case for Open-Source BAS
Proprietary building automation systems create long-term operational risks that aren’t always apparent at the time of installation. Vendors like Siemens and Johnson Controls typically maintain only one authorized service provider per market. Once a facility is on one of these platforms, that’s the only option for service, regardless of performance or cost. Single-vendor dependencies, limited equipment compatibility, and software platforms that go unsupported over time all compound into higher costs and reduced facility control.
Open-source BAS, built on platforms like Tridium Niagara with Distech, Honeywell WEBs, Johnson Controls FX, or ABB hardware, gives facilities the freedom to work with qualified contractors of their choosing, integrate equipment from any manufacturer, and upgrade individual system components without replacing the entire controls architecture. It’s a more sustainable model for long-term building management, and it’s the only model ACIS Inc delivers.
Why Facilities Choose ACIS Inc for BAS Full System Replacements
- Open-source, non-proprietary systems — full procurement flexibility
- Certified in Distech Controls, Honeywell WEBs, Johnson Controls FX, ABB, and Tridium Niagara
- Committed to the Niagara framework since 2007
- Full-scope delivery — design, installation, commissioning, and training
- Honest assessment of upgrade vs. full replacement based on actual system condition
- Integrated HVAC and BAS capabilities for coordinated project delivery
- Active in the Dallas, Fort Worth & Houston market with 24/7 support availability