Centralised software platform for smart buildings

Packed with features designed to get the best from a BEMS, IQ VISION integrates Trend controllers, third party devices and internet protocols into a centralised software platform that allows modern connected buildings to be managed efficiently. 

IQ VISION is configured using the state-of-the-art Niagara 4 interface. As well as being bold, intuitive and easy to use, it features interactive dashboards, dynamic schematics, real-time reports, alarm handling and occupancy time scheduling.

Trend will shortly be launching the latest version – IQ VISION 2.2 – which delivers a range of cutting edge improvements, including extended controller support, faster device discovery and reliability, as well as simplifying the engineering and operation of a BEMS by widening the technical scope of the tasks that it can perform. 

Alan Johnstone, partner channel sales leader, explains: "With IQ VISION 2.2 we had two clear goals: make it easier to engineer, and simpler to use. In fact, we have delivered three, with the addition of an all-new Trend Driver that provides unrivalled performance and data security."

Approved Partners will also benefit from faster configuration. The Niagara 4 platform means that they are able to re-use existing data and thereby reduce the time spent generating new assets. Furthermore, IQ VISION 2.2 reduces the number of engineering steps necessary for displaying live data points on a dashboard page. Trend says integration of third party products is now simpler, more cost effective and is certified by an independent body; and the identification of faults and ways to make energy savings are easier to identify.  

With no limit on the number of concurrent users, every authorised person is allowed access to their area’s environmental controls and they can have their own tailored graphics. This is suitable for installations of IQ VISION in rapidly changing and extensive public estates – like universities or hospitals – or for customers with an ever-growing portfolio of sites. 

To enhance performance, the system is scalable and highly secure, as it comes with in built authentication that requires users to choose strong Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) passwords that are then encrypted. To further enhance security, a comprehensive audit trail of database changes, database storage and back-up, global time functions, calendars, central scheduling, and control and energy management routines can be configured.

IQ VISION is the successor to Trend’s 963 Supervisor, which is now in maintenance mode and will be completely phased out by mid-2019. In order to streamline the transfer process, Trend has developed a System Migration Tool that enables users to import system data from an existing 963 Supervisor, which converts up to 50 pages in less than 5 minutes. In addition, a Schematics Migration Tool automatically converts schematics and library symbols to the new IQ VISION, which can then be edited.

"IQ VISION has been well received by those looking to monitor, manage and control their smart buildings and estates," concludes Trend’s Alan Johnstone. "This latest version 2.2 takes its capabilities up to a level of control and fine detail that was previously considered out of reach. With the 963 Supervisor reaching end of life next year, I strongly recommend upgrading to IQ VISION 2.2 as soon as possible in order to get the benefits from its advanced features."