Benefits of the BTL Mark

“The BTL mark is a symbol that indicates to a consumer that a product has passed a series of rigorous tests conducted by an independent laboratory which verifies that the product correctly implements the BACnet features claimed in the listing. Building owners seek out products that carry the BTL mark and it is becoming commonplace for specifications to require a BTL listing in order to be eligible to bid on a project.


Experience has shown that BACnet products submitted for testing have errors that were unknown to the manufacturer. In fact, there has never been a case where a new product was found to be error free the first time it was tested. In every case changes needed to be made in order to qualify for the BTL mark. This alone is a testament to the high standards and quality of the testing process.


A manufacturer benefits in three important ways by having products tested and listed. First, by identifying problems with a BACnet implementation in the testing process instead of waiting for trouble after installation in the field they are much easier and less costly to fix. Second, the mark becomes a symbol of a high-quality BACnet product, enhancing the company's reputation in the industry. Finally, having the mark and a BTL listing is a requirement to bid on many projects and this will become increasingly important over time.”


Steven T. Bushby
Leader, Mechanical Systems and Controls Group
Building and Fire Research Laboratory
National Institute of Standards and Technology