The integration of low-cost sensors into the building automation industry over the last few years has helped to propel rapid industry growth. Extremely accurate, low-cost solid-state sensors have allowed us to penetrate into many new markets.
The AHR Expo 2001 in Atlanta, for example, hosted over 200 exhibitors showing IAQ products. These new IAQ sensors control the amount of fresh air introduced by a ventilation plant and thus reduce energy consumption. This is achieved by measuring the level of contaminant gases found in the controlled space and providing a signal to the ventilating plant to control the damper positions, thereby saving on the energy consumed by heating or cooling fresh air during periods of little or no occupancy.