Automated Logic WebCTRL Driver for Tridium Niagara

The Automated Logic WebCTRL Driver for Tridium Niagara provides an innovative solution for integrating legacy Automated Logic building automation systems with modern Niagara-based platforms, enabling unified control while preserving existing ARCNET infrastructure investments.

A key advantage of the WebCTRL Driver is its exceptional cost-effectiveness for system modernization. Rather than requiring expensive fieldbus replacements or controller upgrades, the driver leverages the existing WebCTRL server as a gateway, enabling building operators to access all connected systems while gaining Niagara’s advanced visualization, analytics, and integration capabilities. This approach significantly reduces retrofit costs compared to full ARCNET-to-BACnet controller replacement, with implementation possible in days rather than months. The driver’s non-disruptive architecture allows existing WebCTRL operations to continue unchanged while adding Niagara’s powerful automation and data management features.

The driver communicates using SOAP over HTTPS protocol directly with the WebCTRL server, typically running on Windows-based workstations or servers. This approach overcomes the fundamental limitation that Niagara JACE devices cannot directly interface with ARCNET fieldbus networks used by Automated Logic controllers. During initialization, the driver automatically discovers all devices accessible through WebCTRL including ME-series plant controllers, MX-series equipment controllers, ZN/UN-series zone controllers, and any third-party BACnet devices integrated into the system. Point mapping preserves all metadata including original names, engineering units, alarm limits, and data types, ensuring seamless transition of operational data into the Niagara environment.

Automated Logic Corporation, now part of Carrier Corporation, pioneered the adoption of BACnet standards in building automation while maintaining their proprietary ARCNET fieldbus for reliable, high-speed communication. Founded in 1977, ALC developed the WebCTRL platform as one of the industry’s most sophisticated building management systems, featuring advanced capabilities like Environmental Index™ for space comfort optimization, Time-Lapse™ for historical analysis, and Fault Detection and Diagnostics (FDD) for predictive maintenance. Unlike other BACnet vendors who adopted MS/TP for field-level communications, ALC’s commitment to ARCNET provided superior network performance but created integration challenges with other platforms that lack ARCNET support.

If you’re managing a facility with Automated Logic WebCTRL systems and seeking to modernize your building automation capabilities without the expense and disruption of controller replacement, Baudrate’s WebCTRL Driver for Tridium Niagara is the ideal solution. The driver enables various integration scenarios: replacing aging WebCTRL workstations with Niagara’s web-based interface, integrating third-party systems and protocols into existing ALC networks, or streaming building data to cloud platforms for advanced analytics and benchmarking. Our driver ensures reliable communication, preserves your existing investment, and unlocks the full potential of the Niagara platform for operational excellence. Schedule a consultation today to discuss your specific integration requirements, or contact us for a free trial to experience firsthand how the WebCTRL Driver can transform your building management operations while maximizing the value of your ARCNET infrastructure.