Human-machine interface
Guide to Controls (BG 83/2023) written by John Marrow and published by BSRIA in June 2023, defines a human-machine interface (HMI) as: ‘The device which enables the user to interact with a building management system. It is usually a PC but may be another device such as a smartphone or tablet.’
It states: 'In a BMS, the HMI is where an operator can manage the day-to-day running of plant and equipment. This can be hosted by a laptop or PC. If the HMI is in a fixed location, then it is often referred to as the front end or head end. The HMI can be physically located anywhere; however, it is usually in a location local to the building plant or equipment. Touch screens can be provided for users. If the HMI is disconnected from the system network then all automation and field controllers will continue to operate.'
--BSRIA
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
The 2026 Compliance Landscape: Fire doors
Why 'Business as Usual' is a Liability.
Cutting construction carbon footprint by caring for soil
Is construction neglecting one of the planet’s most powerful carbon stores and one of our greatest natural climate allies.
ARCHITECTURE: How's it progressing?
Archiblogger posing questions of a historical and contextual nature.
The roofscape of Hampstead Garden Suburb
Residents, architects and roofers need to understand detailing.
Homes, landlords. tenants and the new housing standards
What will it all mean?
The Architectural Technology podcast: Where it's AT
Catch-up on the latest episodes.
Edmundson Apprentice of the Year award 2026
Entries now open for this Electrical Contractors' Association award.
Traditional blue-grey slate from one of the oldest and largest UK slate quarries down in Cornwall.
There are plenty of sources with the potential to be redeveloped.
Change of use legislation breaths new life into buildings
A run down on Class MA of the General Permitted Development Order.
Solar generation in the historic environment
Success requires understanding each site in detail.
Level 6 Design, Construction and Management BSc
CIOB launches first-ever degree programme to develop the next generation of construction leaders.
Open for business as of April, with its 2026 prospectus and new pipeline of housing schemes.
The operational value of workforce health
Keeping projects moving. Incorporating unplanned absence and the importance of health, in operations.
A carbon case for indigenous slate
UK slate can offer clear embodied carbon advantages.
Costs and insolvencies mount for SMEs, despite growth
Construction sector under insolvency and wage bill pressure in part linked to National Insurance, says report.