Color Spectrum User’s Guide
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Chapter 1
Introduction to Color Spectrum
Introduction
Color Spectrum shows the historical analog information of a point.
The value of each data sample is mapped to a color from a selected
range of colors. The Color Spectrum is unique compared to other
software, since a single display can reveal patterns in months of
historical data. This chapter provides a definition of terms.
© November 01, 2001 Johnson Controls, Inc.
Code No. LIT-655751
www.johnsoncontrols.com
Software Release 5.0
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Color Spectrum User’s Guide
Key Concepts
Chapter Organization
Each chapter in the Color Spectrum User’s Guide is divided into
four main sections:
Table 1-1: Chapter Organization
Section
Description
Introduction
Briefly outlines the contents of the chapter
Key Concepts
Describes background information necessary to
perform or understand specific tasks
Procedure Overview
Describes general steps for performing the
tasks that are described in detail in the Detailed
Procedures section. This section is geared
toward users already experienced in using
Color Spectrum who only need a reference.
Detailed Procedures
Describes in detail the steps needed to
complete specific tasks described within the
chapter. This section is geared toward users
who are new to Color Spectrum.
If a section is not necessary for a particular chapter, it is omitted. For
example, this chapter, Introduction to Color Spectrum, does not
contain a Detailed Procedures section.
Online Help
Color Spectrum software includes online Help. The Help screens may
be accessed by selecting Help from the menu bar, by pressing the
F1 key, or by pressing Alt + H. Help describes the basic procedures for
performing functions within the Color Spectrum software.
Guide Conventions
As in most Windows based programs, sometimes there are multiple
ways to perform the same tasks. This guide describes how to use the
mouse to perform procedures. In general, Microsoft conventions are
used to describe software features.
Color Spectrum User’s Guide
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Color Spectrum Overview
Color Spectrum is used to find patterns in Heating, Ventilating, and
Air Conditioning (HVAC) equipment operations. By mapping
historical analog data to colors, Building Automation System (BAS)
operators are able to see daily and monthly patterns in the operation of
the facility’s equipment. Operators can easily see any abnormal
operation of the equipment and plan corrective actions. Color
Spectrum allows the operator to identify irregularities such as
problems in the sequence of operation, equipment cycling, equipment
use during unoccupied hours, and unusual patterns of equipment use.
Operators can use Color Spectrum to analyze facility energy usage. It
shows the BAS operators the daily, weekly, and monthly patterns of
energy usage. Operators are able to see when energy usage levels
reach peak values, identify patterns indicating the energy waste, and
evaluate load limiting and optimal start strategies.
Ribbons of colors represent each day. A combination of all ribbons
(days) forms the Color Spectrum (Figure 1-1).
Figure 1-1: Color Ribbons in Color Spectrum