SL Power Electronics' GB Series of power supplies offers expanded range

SL Power Electronics has expanded their next generation range of dual certified internal power supplies with the introduction of the GB Series 10, 20-, 30-, 40-, 60 and 130-Watt families. The GB Series has been designed to offer superior performance and minimise the effort required for system integration across many markets and applications including testing and measurement, medical, lighting, and industrial. The newly developed GB product families come in 10watt, 20watt, 30-watt, 40watt and 60watt configurations with output voltages ranging from 5V to 24V. These units are approved to both medical and industrial safety standards: EN/IEC/UL60601-1, 3rd edition (with 2 MOPP isolation), and EN/IEC/UL62368-1. In addition, they are designed to meet the EMC requirements per UL/EN/IEC60601-1-2, 4th edition (Heavy Industrial levels of EN61000-4-x standards). They feature a universal input range of 90 to 264Vac over the wide operating temperature range of -20°C to 70°C, delivering full rated output power up to +40°C and applicable output power derating up to 70°C. These models are available as an open frame or PCB mount for greater flexibility. Further extending the range is the GB130Q-C 3in x 5in footprint feature rich family of highly efficient, quad output power supplies, developed specifically for next-generation applications with medical 4th Edition and heavy industrial levels of EMC performance. Available in an open frame or covered, the GB130Q-C offers a range of output voltage combinations, a 5V standby output, remote inhibit and power fail/DC OK signal. The screw-less design, with no topside heatsink allows for a more automated assembly, increasing system reliability and reducing manufacturing costs. Gary Baker, UK Country Manager for SL Power, comments, “Our next generation power supply families have been designed to offer system builders effortless integration, helping them to create reliable end products. By meeting Class B emissions by a good margin less additional testing and filtering is required. Built-in protection against operating in unstable conditions and the use of high-quality electrolytic capacitors (running below their ESR ratings) helps extend the life of the end equipment minimising down-time. We provide real time technical support and a global presence, assisting our customer’s international development and manufacturing requirements.” SL Power local technical support capabilities provide real-time help in solving potential design problems which could otherwise cause revenue loss due to delays in end-product introduction. Their extensive global presence can support customers product needs as they migrate from development to production, frequently in multiple locations around the world.

HellermannTyton launches sector-specific learning hubs

HellermannTyton has launched its first Competency Hub – the first in a series of sector-specific learning hubs for installers and engineers working with cable management solutions. Beginning with the Solar industry, the sector-specific hubs offer a digital platform from which engineers, installers and manufacturers can receive relevant training, expert advice and specialist product recommendations for their industry. HellermannTyton is also working on hubs for the panel building, automotive and electrical industries, launching later this year. The hubs host a multitude of free resources including access to insightful whitepapers, advice articles for installers, FAQ videos, interviews with industry professionals, and e-learning and webinars to provide training and guidance on manufacturing processes and cable management solutions. Customers can also order free product sample packs via the Hub, browse products, and locate their nearest distributor for products with ease. Accessible through the HellermannTyton website, this unique offering of proven cable management know-how, gives engineers and installers access to carefully curated product solutions that fulfil requirements for easy installation, low maintenance and maximum efficiency. John Banks, Head of Product Management, at HellermannTyton says: “In order to create the very best product solutions, we fully immerse ourselves into the industries we serve. Working alongside engineers on-site, continuously observing markets and discussing optimisation potential with our customers, we‘ve recognised the need for a dedicated online learning platform. Here, customers can easily access resources that equip them with the latest knowledge, expert advice and training. “We are delighted to introduce our series of Competency Hubs which will ensure that engineers, installers and manufacturers have the resources available to keep themselves equipped with the necessary industry knowledge to perform their work safely and efficiently.”

Kelly Brown secures Sales Director role at Ellis Patents

Ellis Patents has promoted Kelly Brown to the role of Sales Director. Kelly, who joined the company in 2014 as an export market researcher, had been working as Head of Sales since 2020. Her promotion sees her being appointed to the privately owned company’s board. Danny Macfarlane, Managing Director of Ellis Patents, says: “Kelly has been extraordinary in every role she’s held with the company; no more so than over the last two years when she took in her stride the challenges of managing a global sales operation in the eye of a post-Brexit worldwide pandemic.” “To emerge in a stronger position in terms of sales, order book and strength of relationships with our 50 strong network of local distributors in key export markets around the world, says so much about Kelly, the way she works and the way she inspires those who work with her.” Ellis Patents’ cable cleats are in demand around the world; with the company actively selling into over 50 different countries, including the UK and Ireland. Over the last 12 months, and despite the on-going pressures of COVID-19, the company has announced a series of major new orders; including projects in Brazil, Norway, Uruguay and Lancashire. The company has also marked its intention of expanding its presence in the non-metallic cable cleat market with the launch of Solus – a range of cable clamps suitable for single cable installations. Kelly Brown, Sales Director of Ellis Patents, says: “What Ellis Patents has achieved over the years is phenomenal – both in terms of sales success and innovation. We may just be a North Yorkshire manufacturer and SME, but we lead a global market that features an ever-growing number of huge, multi-national corporations.” “To be given the opportunity to take the helm of our sales operation is a huge honour and a challenge I’m relishing.”

BSIA member, CSS, wins Scottish Family Business Award

Connelly Security Systems (CSS) recently won the Scottish Family Business Award at The Herald Family Business Awards. Security and alarm providers CSS have been trading since 1986 and are long-standing principal BSIA members. The company started amongst brothers and is now run alongside Managing Director Paul Connelly’s three sons with ‘family values’ in the foundations alongside integrity, honesty and trust. Fast forward over three decades and the company is now one of the largest security and fire alarm system providers in Scotland. John Macaskill, Director Security and Export, BSIA says: “It is wonderful to see our members thrive within the professional security industry and provide proof of focussing on important core values. Not every company manages to grow and survive multiple decades and still show their family roots. As the UK’s trade body for professional security, we couldn’t be happier to celebrate these achievements by sharing this with a wider audience.” As well as growing the business CSS are keen to expand their positive influence within the Glasgow community.

Tamlite eliminates 51 tonnes of plastic waste as part of strategy

Tamlite Lighting has eradicated more than 51 tonnes of plastic from its operations over the last four years, the equivalent to well over one million plastic bags. The leading independent lighting manufacturer has also reduced consumption of new plastics by an impressive 80% - down from 14.5 tonnes in 2020 to 2.7 tonnes - rewarding its efforts in this key environmental area. The move to eliminate plastics from its operations is part of the Midland-based company’s award-winning circular economy strategy. For many years it has sought to move away from the traditional linear resource consumption model, towards designing out waste, maximising value, improving maintenance, and returning materials into the cycle at the end of their lives. In order to make such substantial savings, Tamlite’s dedicated luminaire design team has taken steps to ensure that the amount of plastic used within its products has also been reduced and through innovative design are also making strides to future-proof luminaires and expand their longevity. One such example is its ‘Solar’ luminaire, where the design team were able to re-engineer the existing design of the product, meaning no additional cost and resource of starting a whole new design. The company has also completely removed plastic packaging from a number of products, including the batten and flat panel lighting ranges. With sales of these involving very substantial quantities of fittings every year, the savings rapidly add up. As it steps up its circular economy approach, Tamlite has switched to card/paper-based packaging (materials that are already made of 100% recycled materials) and paper-based tape instead of vinyl so that all the packaging components are recyclable. Tamlite Lighting Head of Wellbeing Debbie-Sue Farrell comments: “As a responsible manufacturer, we take pride in leading by example when it comes to tackling climate change and protecting natural resources. Across our operations and processes we have embraced a circular economy approach where possible to reduce our impact on the environment. Reducing our reliance on plastic, as well as other non-recyclable materials, is an important part of our strategy going forward. The results speak for themselves as we make real strides towards being a more sustainable manufacturer. “Sustainability across our operations will remain a major focus for us as we are committed to providing our customers luminaires that have been built with care, diligence and quality at their core.”

Builders are being urged to stay safe around live cables

Builders are being urged to prioritise electrical safety after the trade was involved in the highest number of cable damage incidents during the past year. UK Power Networks is issuing the warning after finding more than a fifth of all accidents with its networks involved builders. In 2021, builders were involved in 23% of incidents where members of the public came into contact with electricity cables - more than any other trade. The company has stressed the importance of pre-planning, by requesting cable plans in advance and avoiding working too closely to live services. One area of concern is private builders carrying out work such as small house builds or extensions, laying driveways and excavation work. Workers could be at risk when carrying out building, construction and excavation work using diggers, lifting equipment, ladders, pneumatic drills and hand tools. Ros Forbes, a Safety Advisor at UK Power Networks, says: “Contact with electricity can result in serious burns, impact your ability to work or even result in a fatality. Every year people are seriously injured after contact with electricity. Simple safety steps can save lives. “Working as a builder near our networks, whether they be underground cables, overhead lines or electricity substations can place employers and employees at risk of serious injury if the risks are not properly considered. “You can be at risk when using diggers, spades, hammer drills, lifting equipment, ladders and power tools so everybody needs to take the time to plan ahead. It is never worth risking your life to try and save a bit of time. “UK Power Networks is committed to safety and actively encourages anyone undertaking work close to our network to contact us in advance for advice. We regularly talk to professional and industry groups to remind them about safe working.” Cable plans can be obtained before starting any work via the UK Power Networks website. Key advice from the power company’s safety team is to plan ahead: Request advice on disconnecting power supplies, shrouding overhead lines and other issues here. Always treat all cables as live. Make sure you allow time to obtain cable plans and be mindful service cables could be overhead as well as underground. Underground cables should be clearly marked before excavating – with trial holes dug if necessary – consult HSG47 ‘Avoiding Danger from Underground services’. Show these plans to everyone on site before starting work. Confirm locations by using a CAT (cable avoidance) tool. Locate, identify and clearly mark where cables are. Look Up and Look Out for overhead lines and always use a cable detector before drilling into walls, roof areas or walls. Check where a service cable enters a building. Inform other trades working with you of the location of cables. ALWAYS do your own checks before you start to drill or dig. Work away from overhead power lines when handling long items, such as scaffold poles, or when using lifting and digging equipment. Tell all those delivering to site the location of overhead power lines. Always request that the power supply be disconnected before starting any demolition work. Failure to do so could lead to injuries for yourself, colleagues or members of the public.

More people are now eligible for Level 3 course funding

The Government’s ‘Lifetime Skills Guarantee’ has widened its eligibility criteria so more people can now benefit from Level 3 course funding. Until recently, the initiative was only open to those who didn’t already have a Level 3 qualification. From April 2022, any adult in England who is unemployed or earning under £18,525 annually can now also receive free training from hundreds of colleges and training providers across the country, even if they are already qualified to Level 3. The Level 3 NVQ Diploma in Installing Electrotechnical Systems and Equipment (Buildings, Structures and the Environment) is included in the list of funded qualifications, along with the Level 3 Advanced Technical Diploma in Electrical Installation. The technical diploma is a key steppingstone on the TESP industry approved training routes; those who complete this qualification must then gain work-based experience and complete the NVQ and the AM2 assessment to be recognised as a qualified electrician. Ruth Devine, Chair of TESP, says: “Since the launch of the Lifetime Skills Guarantee, hundreds of adults have taken advantage of the funding for industry recognised electrical training. With the more widespread eligibility launched this month, we hope even more will now benefit from upskilling.”

New IoT-enabled components strengthen Siemens’ fire safety portfolio

Siemens is expanding its Cerberus PRO fire safety offering with updated FC720 fire control panels, an IoT-enabled OOH740 detector equipped for disturbance-free function testing, and the Cerberus Connect mobile app. As a result, service providers, consultants and end customers will benefit from resource optimisation, simplified planning and maintenance as well as higher convenience during operations. Control panel with built-in connectivity The new FC720 fire control panels provide built-in connectivity through the X200 gateway. This facilitates installation and commissioning processes, saving time and enhancing security. This panel generation comes with an updated periphery board which significantly increases the power on the loop. With smaller panels and fewer loops than before, customers save costs and benefit from reduced planning complexity. Additionally, the panels offer refined software features, thereby optimising operating options. Detector equipped for disturbance-free function tests In addition to the proven ASA technology (Advanced Signal Analysis), the OOH740 Cerberus PRO detector is now also equipped with DFT technology (disturbance-free function test). This means that the detector can be programmed to conduct tests on a regular basis without human intervention. As a result, service providers don’t need to wait for the next mandatory check by a service technician, nor physically send someone to test the detector in a building, risking disturbing instance guests in hotel rooms, staff in meeting rooms, or patients in hospitals. Cerberus Cloud Apps complemented by Cerberus Connect Cerberus Connect App is a new app in the Cerberus Cloud Apps portfolio, available both for iOS and Android. Fire safety staff can receive live notifications via a push option, and they can check the status and event history of their fire safety site from anywhere and at any time. Furthermore, maintenance and regular service visit planning and reporting has been improved by digitalising the process through the Cerberus Cloud Apps. Secured visibility of the connected sites is ensured around the clock, thereby facilitating efficient maintenance planning, execution and reporting. The service provider can plan the visit through the Cerberus Portal, conduct testing on site via the Connect App and then generate compliant reports through the Portal. These can be sent to the customer, who has full visibility of the fire system and can prove compliance if needed.

ABB partners with Samsung to drive holistic smart building technology

ABB and Samsung Electronics will collaborate in a global partnership to provide jointly developed technologies for energy savings, energy management, and the smart Internet of Things (IoT) connection of both residential and commercial buildings. Buildings generate almost 40% of annual global CO2 emissions, and the partnership between the two companies will create a platform to build a long-term relationship for innovation on smart technology, smart control, and smart devices. The collaboration will enable Samsung and ABB to expand customer access to home automation technologies and better device management, whilst facilitating electricity load shifting. Smart homes use connected devices and appliances integrated through a centralised system to save money, time, and energy. By connecting the Samsung SmartThings application and ABB home automation solutions for example, residents will be able to use their personal devices to monitor and manage a full spectrum of white goods, as well as gas and smoke sensors, energy, security, and comfort systems from a single application. Proactively managing appliances such as dishwashers and washing machines to operate off-peak, for example, assures grid optimisation and lower energy costs. Mike Mustapha, President at ABB Smart Buildings, comments: “We imagine a future where our customers can benefit from significant carbon and energy savings by further improving access to fully integrated and holistic, smart building technology. Partnering with a major technology innovation leader like Samsung Electronics further supports ABB’s vision and offering to connect whole buildings with open and agnostic solutions, and to deliver insights on total energy consumption, including elements such as electric vehicle (EV) charging. This not only minimises the carbon footprint from the built environment but delivers a seamless and engaging user experience.” Chanwoo Park, Head of IoT Business at Samsung Electronics, says: “The simplicity of just two vendors coming together in this way adds ease to smart buildings projects for construction companies and property developers too. For retrofitting existing buildings, or new sites, with a single source for solutions, they can be assured that products will integrate, and work seamlessly together. It also enhances the after sales experience because there is just one platform for the whole system.”

CityFibre completes its flagship full fibre rollout in Milton Keynes

CityFibre has announced it has completed the primary-build of its full fibre network Milton Keynes. The new network now reaches approximately 90,000 homes, about 90% of addressable residential properties, as well as most businesses, and key public sector and community sites in the city. Construction began on the £43m project in March 2018 and CityFibre has since laid almost 1,000km of dense full fibre infrastructure across nearly every street in Milton Keynes. With the primary-build now completed, CityFibre will explore opportunities to densify and infill the last remaining areas. The new network marks CityFibre’s first completed project in England and makes it the largest supplier of full fibre in the city. Milton Keynes was the first location announced to benefit from CityFibre and Vodafone’s strategic partnership in 2018. Thousands of residents in Milton Keynes can now enjoy affordable, gigabit-capable reliable full fibre broadband from a range of internet service providers (ISPs) including launch partner Vodafone, TalkTalk, Zen, Fibrehop and IDNet. Amongst other key sites, the network currently serves the city’s university hospital where it is used to support robotic surgery, the digital transformation of back-office functions, and providing patients with a rock-solid broadband connection. The network is also supporting the connectivity services of the headquarters and campus of The Open University, Stadium MK and the MKYMCA. The network also underpins the MK:5G project, led by Milton Keynes Council, that trials and seeks to illustrate the near-term technological benefits of 5G including autonomous vehicles, drones, and robots. A forthcoming report by the consultancy Hatch, commissioned by CityFibre, will show that Milton Keynes stands to experience significant economic, social and environmental benefits from its new digital infrastructure platform including over £560m in productivity gains and £123m from a widened workforce over a 15-year period. Enabling 5G rollout alone could drive up to £1bn in positive economic impact. Greg Mesch, Chief Executive Officer at CityFibre, says: “As we complete our rollout in Milton Keynes, we leave behind a city fully equipped for the data age. With the UK’s finest digital infrastructure under its streets, its citizens, businesses, and public institutions are only just beginning to tap into the huge benefits that are to come. “Completed city-wide networks are now rolling off our production line, proof of the impact of digital infrastructure competition in the UK. Each new network is delivering faster speeds, more reliable services and better value to our partners and to consumers.” Ben Everitt, MP for Milton Keynes North comments: “Milton Keynes finishing its journey to become a Gigabit City is a huge moment and a fantastic achievement for all involved. With CityFibre’s project now complete, households, businesses and public sector sites across MK will be able to benefit from the best possible internet connections. “The legacy left by this project is just beginning. The world class digital infrastructure now in place will keep Milton Keynes at the cutting edge of technological change and underpin our growth and success for generations to come.” Iain Stewart, MP for Milton Keynes South concludes: "It is excellent news that CityFibre has completed its rollout of the Fibre-to-the-Premises programme, reaching 90,000 premises across Milton Keynes. "Having access to fast and reliable broadband in our home, work and community is increasingly important as we move forward and I am grateful for CityFibre's role in making this possible."