Course Overview:

The goal of the Niagara Operations class is to give students an introduction to the Niagara software. The course will start with a light overview of BAS systems (building automation systems), and quickly move on to answer the question: "What is Niagara?" The class will review the JACE (Java Application Control Engine) hardware, show users how to explore Niagara WorkBench in a web browser, discuss protocols and why / how we use them in Niagara. The class will also have hands on labs to allow users to see how devices can be brought into the software, a demo of how control loops work and can be manipulate, and how wire sheet programming works in real time. We will also cover how scheduling and alarming works, and go over some basic troubleshooting steps.

Course Objectives:

• BAS Overview
• What is Niagara?
• What is a controller or a JACE?
• Explore the Niagara Workbench
• Normalizing Data - What is a protocol and how do we use them?
• Device and points discovery
• Basic data types: boolean, numeric, enumerated, string
• KitControl palette
• Control loop demonstration
• Wire sheet programming overview
• Sequence of operations
• Scheduling
• Alarming
• Graphics
• Basic troubleshooting tips

Students should have a basic level of understanding of building automation systems (BAS) and mechanical equipment. If you are unfamiliar with mechanical or HVAC equipment, we suggest you take the Fundamentals of HVAC & Electricity course prior to enrolling in Niagara Operations. Students looking for additional Niagara training should follow this course with the Niagara 4 Certification class.

Target Audience:

This class is geared towards students that have limited to no Niagara experience and are looking for an introduction to the software prior to taking Niagara Certification courses. This class should also be taken by end users that have Niagara AX or Niagara 4 systems installed in their facilities and are looking for a better understanding of the software.

Prerequisites:

• Cochrane Tech Center will provide laptops to all students. If student would prefer to bring their own laptop, please contact the Training Department. Each student is required to have a Windows based laptop (with Windows 7/8/10 installed) with Mozilla Firefox or Chrome downloaded.
• Students are expected to have a functional working knowledge of Windows and computers, including: understanding navigation, locating files, folder structures, file paths, browser basics, cut/copy/paste, and using a mouse/keyboard (right/left click) in order to be successful in this class.