WisuAlarm – the new name in smart fire and CO detection 

WisuAlarm, a subsidiary of international video surveillance company Dahua Technology, has launched a new range of smoke, heat, CO and environmental alarms in the UK and Ireland. The BSI-certificated range is designed to provide advanced fire and environmental protection. Devices are manufactured under quality-controlled precision manufacturing conditions and take full advantage of Dahua’s expertise in video analysis, cloud computing, big data and smart IoT. The range of alarms features split-spectrum sensors, which result in fewer false alarms from environmental factors such as dust and steam. The initial offering from WisuAlarm is aimed at the professional installation market for domestic and residential systems, including private homes and social housing. The range is suitable for grades D1, D2, F1 and F2 and categories LD3, LD2 and LD1 under BS 5839-6, and includes: Interconnected smoke, heat and CO alarms Mains-powered smoke, heat and CO alarms Environmental sensors to detect damp and mould and to monitor air quality Wireless Gateway for landlord monitoring of social housing installations WisuAlarm app, which enables the monitoring of devices from any location in the world Interconnected devices feature WisuLink, a wireless home safety network based on the 868 MHz radio frequency. Up to 24 WisuLink devices can be interconnected, with long transmission distances and wall-crossing to cover all rooms. The technology also provides remote data management and visualisation. A handy feature is the ability to test and silence alarms using any infrared remote control, saving users the need to reach buttons at ceiling height. To launch the range, WisuAlarm will be hosting a webinar on Wednesday 28 February. It will provide information on products, installation and wholesale partnerships, as well as opportunities for leveraging the private, rented and social housing markets in the UK and Ireland. To register for the webinar and a chance to win some prizes, click here. “WisuAlarm is one of the very few brands that is designed, manufactured, fulfilled and supported by one company,” says Steve Boggis, Sales Director at WisuAlarm Technology UK and Ireland. “To that end, we are able to offer peace of mind to installers and householders on the back of our four principles: intelligence, innovation, responsibility and quality. With between eight and nine million private sector and social housing dwellings in the UK alone, there is a significant opportunity for installers to partner with us and reap the benefits that are available.”

Unicrimp adds earthing plates to Q-Crimp accessories range

Unicrimp has added new Earthing Plates to its Q-Crimp cable accessories range.   Brass earthing plates are designed to provide a low-resistance path to the earth, allowing electrical current to be safely dissipated into the ground in the event of a fault or short circuit.     The new Q-Crimp Single and Double Brass Earthing Plates are suitable for Unicrimp’s Q-Nect IP66 junction boxes and for earthing 20mm brass glands.   Unicrimp recently expanded its cable glands range, which now includes armoured industrial brass cable glands and nylon cable glands that are offered in a variety of BW, CW and AE1W, and they are all manufactured to the latest approvals and BS 6121 standard.   To read more on Unicrimp, click here.

Black lining boxes and Ezylink connectors from Click

Click Scolmore continues to expand its Essentials range to provide electricians with the simplest solution to installing a selection of different depth dry lining back boxes in any combination desired. The Ezylink system can be used to connect and create any combination of Click dry lining boxes, which are available in 1 gang or 2 gang and are suitable for board thicknesses of 18mm (35mm deep) and 27mm (47mm deep). Now available in a black finish, the Click dry lining boxes are designed to create a neat and more discrete look. They are supplied with a 10-year warranty. To read more on Click Scolmore, click here.

C.K Tools launches the E-Driver Electric Screwdriver

C.K Tools has unveiled its new compact electric screwdriver, designed to save time and meet the varied needs of trade professionals and DIY enthusiasts. The new T4930 E-Driver Electric Screwdriver, according to C.K Tools, allows users to quickly and accurately complete a job with ease and in far less time than a manual alternative. The E-Driver has been developed with a panel of tradespeople and is designed to tackle heavy-duty electrical jobs to small precision tasks, making it a versatile and portable companion to quickly and accurately drive screws and fasteners without fatigue. Powered by a rechargeable USB-C 3.6V battery, the E-Driver offers a cordless and convenient premium tool with up to 200 minutes of operating time per charge. Its ergonomic design allows for supreme grip and control, and its intuitive forward and reverse buttons allow the user to change the direction of rotation, whether to tighten or loosen screws with ease. The E-Driver’s 6.35mm locking hex chuck retains the driver bit securely and its Torque adjustment dial, set up to 6Nm through the motor and up to 20Nm by manual rotation, allows for clear and easy adjustment to ensure screw fixings are tightened effectively. The E-Driver comes complete with rechargeable cable and a high-performance PZ2/SL4 double-sided screwdriver bit, made from durable chrome vanadium – to withstand a wide variety of tasks. Brinley Buckley Roberts, Brand Manager at C.K Tools, says, “This latest addition to our range features the leading performance, durability, accuracy and strength C.K Tools products are known for, making it a toolbox essential for users who need to drive screws and fasteners, and in a fraction of the time. “Whether it is detailed electrical work, general repairs or even putting up flat pack furniture – the C.K Tools E-Driver will make light work of screwing and unscrewing tasks and introduce a whole new world of convenience for busy professionals and passionate DIYers alike.” To read more on C.K Tools, click here.

Fergus increases merchant and wholesaler integrations

Fergus says it is making life even easier for hard-working professionals with its enhanced merchant and wholesaler integrations. Over 26 electrical wholesalers, and building and plumbing merchants, including Plumbase, Screwfix and Travis Perkins, are now integrated into the platform, helping businesses to manage their supplier interactions, invoicing and job costing quickly, saving time and money. “Gone are the days of re-keying invoices into accounting packages or job management software for back costing,” says James Chillman, UK Country Manager for Fergus. “Our supplier integrations allow automatic import of supplier invoices, directly matching line items to the appropriate jobs. This saves significant time as the painstaking process of manual invoice entry is eliminated, freeing up evenings and weekends that were once consumed by administrative tasks.” With just one click, invoices can be instantly assigned to jobs, ensuring that every material cost is accurately allocated and nothing is overlooked. According to Fergus, this level of precision in tracking supplier documents and costs across jobs is unparalleled, offering users a comprehensive overview of their financials in one location. Fergus also simplifies the materials procurement process with the ability to send purchase orders directly from the platform to suppliers for pricing, pickup or delivery. This functionality saves time and streamlines the supply chain management. One of the most significant benefits of these integrations is the ability to invoice in minutes. With labour and material costs already allocated to jobs, Fergus users can generate customer invoices swiftly, directly from quotes or by creating a quick invoice that incorporates all the material and labour costs. The system also allows for the incorporation of used stock for a job, pulling in line items with up-to-date pricing from supplier price books that are instantly imported into Fergus. Applying margins and discounts is equally straightforward, enabling businesses to manage their billing with a few simple clicks. “Our integrations include partnerships with major industry suppliers such as Yesss Electrical, Rexel, Edmundson Electrical, CEF, Travis Perkins, Wolseley, Williams, Graham, Plumbase, BSS, MKM, Screwfix and City Plumbing to name but a few. These collaborations ensure that Fergus users have access to a wide range of products and materials at competitive prices,” continues James. “Our mission is to save you countless hours of administrative work so you can focus more on the important things, like family and friends while running a business - instead of the business running you.” To read more on Fergus, click here.

HiKOKI launches the High Torque Right Angle Drill

HiKOKI Power Tools has introduced the D36DYA 36V Multi Volt Cordless 1/2in High Torque Right Angle Drill. Engineered to meet the rigorous demands of tradespeople such as electricians and plumbers, HiKOKI says it guarantees a blend of high performance, versatility and durability that professionals can rely on. The HiKOKI brushless motor technology within the D36DYA delivers power and increased efficiency, not to mention a longer lifespan. The company says that the Right Angle drill stands out for its adaptability, capable of accepting any HiKOKI 18V/36V Multi Volt battery or being plugged in via a mains power adapter (ET36A), ensuring that work continues uninterrupted, regardless of the situation you find yourself in on-site.  The D36DYA has been designed with top and two-position side handles, enhancing ergonomics and providing superior control during use. The tool's lightweight design, coupled with a two-finger trigger, ensures ease of operation and minimises fatigue, allowing users to work longer and more comfortably. Safety is paramount, and the D36DYA is equipped with Reactive Force Control (RFC) technology, which can shut the tool down in the event of a dangerous twisting motion, protecting the user from potential injury. Additional pro-level features include an LED light for working in low-light conditions, a rubber over-moulding for improved grip, a mechanical clutch and anti-kickback protection. It's a compact tool so it is ideal for use in tight spaces. The D36DYA features a nickel-plated chuck, offering maximum resistance against corrosion. This durability ensures that the tool remains reliable over time, even in the toughest conditions. Tradespeople need tools they can depend on and, according to HiKOKI, the D36DYA delivers just that, withstanding the wear and tear of daily use without compromise. All of this comes with three and five-year heavy-duty warranties, subject to product registration and terms and conditions. To read more on HiKOKI, click here.

Ovia releases Issue 5 of the Ovia Lighting Catalogue

Now in its fifth year of trading as an independent lighting company, Ovia says it has firmly established its reputation as a leading player in the lighting sector.    The company has just released Issue 5 of the Ovia Lighting Catalogue, showcasing new launches and drawing attention to the company’s concerted efforts to contribute to the lighting industry’s transition to a circular economy.   The company is working towards making sure all of its Inceptor luminaires meet the requirements of the TM66 Assured Product Verification Scheme. This scheme is an initiative developed and fulfilled by the Lighting Industry Association (LIA) and endorsed by CIBSE (Chartered Institution of Building Services Engineers).   Scolmore Group has been a member of the LIA since 2012 and has forged a close working relationship with the team at the Association as the company strives to achieve excellence in product design, specification and performance. Having been accepted as the founding partner for TM66 last year, Ovia has become more involved in discussions with the LIA on the importance of the circular economy and highlights the company’s plans to support the TM66 verification scheme. Last year, LIA Chief Executive Officer, Ayca Donaghy, and Head of Policy and Sustainability, Bob Bohannon, visited Scolmore Group head office to meet with the Ovia team for discussions on the whole subject of the circular economy and the efforts being made by Ovia to drive its sustainability policies throughout the entire business operation.   Almost the entire range of Ovia’s Inceptor products has been tested and scored very well on the TM66 Circularity Report. The testing involves gathering thorough evidence to support the specifications of the product range. The LIA verifies the TM66 results to ensure it has a consistent and accurate rating. Ovia will continue with its promise that every one of its Inceptor lighting products will meet the standards set by the TM66 report.   Switching up the Ovia lighting offer  Among the raft of Ovia’s TM66 verified products is the newly launched Inceptor Milli, an IP65-rated, dimmable 4W and 6.4W fixed, fire-rated downlight that offers a range of features at the flick of a switch. There is the option to switch between 6.4W and 4W power outputs using a single switch, as well as the ability to easily switch the colour temperatures between warm white, cool white and daylight. This allows for effortless adaptation to varying lighting needs and makes it easy for the end user to tailor their lighting to suit individual requirements.   To read more on Ovia, click here. 

SkillELECTRIC 2024 is now open for entries

Talented electrotechnical students are being encouraged to register for this year’s SkillELECTRIC competition. The application window is now open and runs until 28 March 2024.    The event is part of the WorldSkills UK competition network and is designed to promote and showcase high standards and skills across the electrotechnical industry. During the competition, entrants will be judged on a series of challenging tests in a bid to be named the 2024 SkillELECTRIC champion. All those who register will take part in an online, interactive app-based task which tests skills around health and safety, inspection and testing, regulations, electrical principles and installation practices and procedures.   The top-scoring competitors from this stage will be invited to complete a challenging practical task at a national qualifying heat around the UK between May and June. Those who score the highest at the live heats will progress to the UK grand final in November, and they may also have the chance to represent the UK in the Electrical Installation event at WorldSkills Shanghai in 2026.   The event is organised by the industry charity National Electrotechnical Training (NET) and has the Electric Center, NICEIC and Scolmore Group as its delivery partners.    “If you’ve got a shining star in your company or classroom, why not enter them into SkillELECTRIC,” says Jennie Phung, SkillELECTRIC Project Manager at NET.    “The competition process brings so many skills back into the business, such as working efficiently under pressure, time management, precision and confidence. It also contributes to an apprentice’s 20% off-the-job training requirement, which is a great benefit.”   To register for SkillELECTRIC before 28 March 2024 visit here.   To read more on SkillELECTRIC, click here

SPARKS Female Skills Competition 2024 kicks off soon

The SPARKS Female Skills Competition 2024 starts on 27 February, marking a significant event in the industry calendar. Over the next few weeks, SPARKS will be travelling to three regional locations in search of the best upcoming talent within the industry. In each location, 12 learners will battle it out in a live practical test. A winner and runner-up will be chosen from each heat to go through to the grand final taking place on 18 April at Stephenson College, Coalville. The competition is supported by industry names, including Megger, Aico, Electric Center, The IET, Milwaukee, Schneider Electric, Prysmian, Snickers, Fix Radio and National Electrotechnical Training (NET). Judged by Darren Oates from NET, the competition showcases the growing recognition and support for female professionals in the trade. Last year’s winner Jane Thorp, from Suffolk New College, says, “It’s been a really good experience and good using different products from different manufacturers.” 2024 regional heats schedule: South: Bath College, Tuesday 27 February Midlands: Leicester College, Tuesday 5 March North: Kirklees College, Thursday 7 March To read more on SPARKS, click here.

CEDIA transforms its Tech + Business Summits for 2024

CEDIA has unveiled its re-imagined and expanded 2024 CEDIA Tech + Business Summits (formerly CEDIA Tech Summits) programme for the UK smart home technology industry. The new name and theme, 'CEDIA Tech + Business Summits: The Tech You Need, The Business You Want', encompasses the dual focus of these events in supporting members’ success, says the organisation. With a carefully curated schedule, the summits offer a blend of training from technology and business leaders, including financial consultant and CEDIA Fellow, Leslie Shiner of The ShinerGroup and Hazel Napier, Operations Director at legal and contract services specialist, BEB Consultancy. Plus, each summit features networking opportunities for business owners, system designers, project managers, technicians and newcomers alike. The UK programme is extended to include Bristol as a summit destination for the first time, alongside London, Edinburgh and Leeds. Key features include: Enhanced education: Designed with all job roles in mind, CEDIA’s sessions cover a spectrum of technology and business topics to provide attendees with tools for immediate action. This comprehensive learning experience spans throughout the day and is intended for entire teams to sharpen their skills and remain at the forefront of the ever-evolving smart home landscape. Networking opportunities: The Tech + Business Summits provide a one-of-a-kind experience for forging a variety of connections in a local setting. Every location welcomes business owners, skilled technicians, and career-hungry students who are eager to engage. Product discovery: Attendees can indulge in the latest technology trends and connect with key decision-makers from top brands, gaining invaluable insights and fostering meaningful partnerships. New exhibitors confirmed for the UK programme include D-Tools, Henley Designs, PMC, Sony, Super Rod and UR-EKA Lighting & Controls. The 2024 CEDIA Tech + Business Summits UK schedule is as follows: 20 March - Bristol, UK 18 April - London, UK 22 May - Edinburgh, UK 19 June - Leeds, UK “The CEDIA Tech + Business Summits are about fostering meaningful connections, driving business growth, and empowering professionals at every stage of their careers,” says CEDIA Global President and CEO, Daryl Friedman. “As our members’ needs evolve, CEDIA is committed to ensuring our events remain beneficial and accessible to everyone.” To read more on CEDIA, click here.