"The Importance of Being Certified": the role of conformance testing and certification of communication systems in building automation and control devices

This work describes the importance of conformance testing and certification of communication systems in building automation and control devices, especially in Europe. Conformance testing in Europe involves a number of parties and is a serious issue. One of the most important aspects is to use devices with standardized communication systems and standardized building automation and control functions. A strict framework of the European regulation bodies defines the roles and duties of manufacturers and the respective test laboratories. Conformance testing of the communication of a building automation and control device is much more than a pure communication test.