January 7, 2026
Specification Extract (Div 23 – BAS):“In the event of the loss of normal power, there shall be an orderly shutdown of all stand-alone DDC panels to prevent the loss of database or operating system software. Non-volatile memory shall be incorporated for all critical controller configuration data, and battery back-up shall be provided to support the real-time clock and all volatile memory for a minimum of 72 hours. Upon restoration of normal power, the DDC panel shall automatically resume full operation without manual intervention.”Break the Spec into Design Obligations*Never read this as a paragraph. Read it as compliance items.1. Orderly shutdown on power failure2. Non-volatile memory for critical configuration data3. Battery backup for RTC & volatile memory4. Minimum 72 hours battery autonomy5. Automatic restart without manual interventionPART A - How to Handle This During ESTIMATION1. Controller Selection (MOST CRITICAL STEP)Before freezing any DDC controller, verify directly from OEM datasheets:1. Flash / EEPROM / Non-volatile memory available2. Internal or external battery backup supported3. Battery autonomy ≥ 72 hours4. Firmware supports auto-restart after power restoreIf even one point is unclear -> reject the controller during estimation.* Never assume “all controllers have batteries” - many do not.2. Battery Cost MUST Be Included in BOQAsk these questions during take-off:1. Is the battery factory-supplied or field add-on?2. Is the battery replaceable?3. Is it included in the base controller price?If battery is optional -> add a separate BOQ line itemExample BOQ Description:“DDC Controller with RTC battery backup – minimum 72 hours autonomy”This avoids cost disputes during submittal stage.3. Panel-Level Considerations (Very Important) - For stand-alone DDC panels:1. UPS is NOT mandatory per Div 23 spec2. Battery backup is mandatoryHowever, for hospitals, data centers, or mission-critical buildings:You may propose UPS as a value-engineering option (not a compliance requirement, but a reliability upgrade)4. Risk Pricing & ProtectionIf the specification is strict and OEM data is not crystal, clear:1. Add engineering contingency, OR2. Include a clarification note in the proposalThis protects you during:1. Consultant review2. Submittal rejection3. Post-award technical audits
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