In BACnet terms, what is the difference between Analog Output and Binary Output?

• A. Analog Output provides on/off control (relay); Binary Output provides a continuous control value.
• B. Analog Output provides a continuous control value (e.g., 0–10 V); Binary Output provides on/off control (relay).
• C. Analog Output is read-only; Binary Output is write-only.
• D. Analog Output stores a digital setting; Binary Output stores a physical setting.

Answer: (B)

In BACnet, the difference between an Analog Output and a Binary Output is the type of control signal they provide. An Analog Output delivers a continuous control value within a range (for example 0–10 V or 4–20 mA, or a percentage), allowing fine-grained adjustment of a device such as a valve position or a variable-speed drive. A Binary Output, on the other hand, provides a two-state on/off signal to drive devices like relays or simple switches, representing a discrete, either/or condition. In practice, the Analog Output’s presentValue is a continuous number, while the Binary Output’s presentValue is a boolean, indicating on or off. This is why the correct understanding is that one is continuous control and the other is on/off control.