Communication Protocols Explained for Builders
Communication Protocols Explained for Builders Protocols are the rules that let devices talk to each other. They decide how data is formatted, when it is sent, and how a device confirms a message arrived. On a building site or in a smart building, many devices—sensors, meters, controllers—must work together. A clear protocol helps reduce errors, speeds setup, and makes future upgrades easier. Key protocol families Wired: Modbus RTU, Modbus TCP, BACnet MS/TP, BACnet/IP Wireless: Wi-Fi, Zigbee, Z-Wave, Bluetooth Low Energy Data formats and messaging: MQTT, OPC UA, HTTP/REST (over TCP) Choosing a protocol ...