Andover Continuum was a capable building automation platform with a significant installed base, particularly in commercial and institutional buildings through the 1990s and 2000s. Schneider Electric acquired Andover Controls in 2007 and has since shifted focus to their own platforms. If you're running Continuum, planning for the future is essential.

The Support Reality

Continuum Support Status

Active development: Stopped years ago

Parts availability: Diminishing rapidly

Technical support: Limited options

Qualified technicians: Increasingly rare

This doesn't mean your system will stop working tomorrow, but it does mean the risk of unsupportable failure increases over time.

Understanding Your Continuum System

Typical Components

CyberStation

Supervisory workstation software for monitoring and control.

Continuum Controllers

Various models including ACX, BCX, and CX series controllers.

Infinet Network

Proprietary communication infrastructure connecting the system.

Communication

Continuum uses Infinet, a proprietary protocol, along with BACnet capability in later controller versions.

Migration Options

Schneider EcoStruxure

Manufacturer migration path

✓ Integration with Continuum via Infinet or BACnet
✓ Modern web-based interface
✓ Advanced analytics and cloud features
✓ Gradual controller replacement path

Open Platform Migration

Niagara Framework

✓ Infinet drivers available
✓ BACnet connection to capable controllers
✓ Multi-vendor integration flexibility
✓ Competitive service from multiple integrators

Option 3: Complete Replacement

For systems at end-of-life, complete replacement may be most practical:

New BACnet controllers throughout
Modern supervisory platform
Clean break from legacy technology
Preserve functional field devices where possible

Planning Your Migration

Urgency Assessment

HIGH

Parts unavailable, service lost, critical failures

MEDIUM

Aging components, limited service options

LOWER

System functional, service available

Budget Planning

Get preliminary estimates for migration options
Plan phased implementation if budget is constrained
Include contingency for accelerated timeline if failures occur

Documentation Priority

Document Before Migration

Before any migration, thoroughly document:

Controller inventory and programming
Point databases and naming
Sequences of operation
Network topology

Risk Management

While Planning Migration

Stock critical spare parts while available
Maintain relationship with knowledgeable service provider
Monitor system health closely
Have contingency plans for component failures

During Migration

Migration Best Practices

Phase work: Maintain building operation throughout transition

Keep legacy available: Maintain as backup during cutover

Test thoroughly: Verify everything before final commitment

Getting Help

At Controls NYC, we have experience with Continuum systems and can help you plan your migration. We'll assess your current system, explain your options, and help you develop a practical plan.

Andover Continuum: What to Do When Support Ends