Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) solutions provider Sierra Monitor has released a cloud-connected network discovery and monitoring appliance for BACnet networks. The platform is designed to help remotely monitor and manage buildings and facilities.

The new Sierra Monitor BACnet Explorer Next Generation (NG) appliance automatically discovers BACnet MS/TP and BACnet/IP devices.

It also provides "next-generation features the door for new opportunities in system integration and device management," according to Sierra Monitor.

A Closer Look at BACnet Explorer NG

BACnet Explorer NG supports BACnet, an industry-standard protocol that is commonly used in building and facility automation.

The appliance works in combination with the Sierra Monitor FieldPoP device cloud and allows installers and systems integrators to:

  • Remotely discover and manage BACnet MS/TP and BACnet/IP devices on an automation network.
  • Test installed devices.
  • Debug a network.
  • Upload device and network information to the cloud.
  • Integrate device and network data with cloud-based software applications.
  • Provide a control path back to a network and devices.

BACnet Explorer NG can be accessed simultaneously by multiple authorized users locally or remotely via tablets and smartphones, Sierra Monitor indicated. That way, authorized users can discover and view devices and write to these devices.

In addition, BACnet Explorer NG enables solutions providers to offer "new services to their clients such as continuous facility monitoring and maintenance-as-a-service," Sierra Monitor CEO Varun Nagaraj said in a prepared statement.

BACnet Explorer NG is now available from Sierra Monitor and authorized partners.

What to Expect from the Global IIoT Market

The global IIoT market could provide many growth opportunities to solutions providers over the next few years, which is reflected in "The Impact of Connectedness on Competitiveness" report from the Business Performance Innovation (BPI) Network.

In the report, 52 percent of global executives said they expect the IIoT to significantly impact business performance and competitiveness in the next three years. However, only 1.5 percent stated they have begun IIoT technology implementation.

"The Industrial Internet of Things will transform business and industrial performance, delivering significant improvements in operational efficiency and uptime, as well as growth from new business models, products, services and customer experiences," BPI Network noted in a prepared statement. "Still, despite keen interest and growing expectations, most companies are unprepared to take advantage of IIoT technology and have no clear strategic roadmap or implementation plan."

Markets and Markets has estimated the global IIoT market will grow from $113.7 billion in 2015 to $195.5 billion in 2022. Also, Accenture has projected the IIoT could add $14.2 trillion to the worldwide economy by 2030.