ECD Solutions Nov/Dec 2013

www.fluke.com.au

4 Tightnewfibre-optictestinglimitsneeded

9 Majorchangestoenergystandard

10 Managingtherisksofdoingbusinessonline

Your copy of ECD Solutions is now available as an online eMag.

NOW in DIGITAL!

http://www.ECDsolutions.com.au/latest_issues

CONTENTS

ECD SOLUTIONSNOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2013 FROM THE EDITOR

11 Automation + Security 13 Lightingcontrolsmarkettoreach$5.3billion

16 Aholisticapproachtosecurity

21 Comms + Data 28 Fibre-opticcommunicationsresearcherrecognised

30 Beyondcooling:Thermalmanagementstrategiesforthemoderndatacentre

38 Constructiontofall:Telecomsremainsrobust

Cov

er:

©iS

tock

pho

to.c

om/v

m

39 Efficiency + Renewables 42 Criticalfactorsforachievingsuccessinsolar

PVindustry

45 Cookingupsolarcellsinamicrowaveoven

49 Electrical Distribution 56 Eliminatingelectricalrisksintheworkplace

74 Ultrafastelectricalswitch

This issue marks a year of bringing

ECD Solutions to you, and more than a

decade since this magazine released its

first edition.

In response to reader feedback and industry

developments, we broadened the scope

of the magazine to include more on

energy efficiency and renewable energy,

communications and automation and

security industries. These industry sectors

have created immense opportunities for

contractors in the last two years. And if

the findings of recent surveys are anything

to go by, these industries will continue to

create significant work for ECs.

According to research firm IBIS World,

technological advances in electrical and

electronic equipment will support industry

expansion, with key growth areas including

the installation of networking systems

for electronic data transfer in existing

premises; the installation of C-Bus systems in

homes and businesses; the installation and

maintenance of surveillance instrumentation;

and the installation of telephony, broadband

and pay TV services. IBIS World expects

activity in the market to remain at historically

high levels and provide a substantial platform

for contractors servicing the resources,

energy, telecommunications and electricity

infrastructure markets. The NBN rollout and

the national 4G network will continue to

create work for ECs over the next five years.

While there are new opportunities, business

costs are rising. NECA’s 2013 Market Monitor

released in September indicates the cost of

doing business has risen by around 25%

over the past year alone. Other key finds of

the NECA survey include: contractors are

specialising far more now (up 40% on two

years ago); home automation - possibly

due to the NBN, is emerging as a key

skills requirement; the

most significant ‘new

technology’ skills relate

to renewable energy and

energy efficiency.

Mansi Gandhi - [email protected]

TIGHTNEWFIBRE-OPTICTESTINGLIMITSNEEDEDThorsten Punke, Technical Marketing Manager ANZ

www.ECDsolutions.com.au4ECDSOLUTIONS-NOV/DEC 2013

©iS

tock

pho

to.c

om/a

rcos

s

With the ratification of 40 and 100 Gbps ethernet fibre standards,optical requirements are tighter than ever before - yet fibre testingmethodshavenotbeenupgradedformanyyears.Consider,too,thatwith the introductionof 10Gbpsoverethernet, themaximumpowerlossbudgetformultimodefibrelinkshasdroppedsignificantly,anditis clear that changes in testing standards are essential and urgent.

While an accuracy of 0.5 to 1 dBmighthavebeentolerableinthepast, it is not acceptable with10 Gbps or higher, especially

as the demand for 1.5 dB maximum powerloss with OM4 fibres for 40 and 100 Gbpsapplications requiresprecisetestequipmentand test procedures.

ISO/IEC 14763-3 was launched in 2006,withamendmentsaddedin2010, inordertoreflectthenewtighterbudgetintestmethodsandequipment.Themajor changesare:

•Launchandtailtestcordswithcontrolledend-faces

•Referenceconnectorswithverylowloss•1-and3-testcordmethodsforreference

settingwithLSPMdevices•2-testcordmethodsarenot acceptable•Introductionofencircledfluxforaccuracy

ofmultimode light source•DetailedproceduresforLSPMandOTDR

devicesThemainreasonforallthesechanges is

accuracyandreliability.Withabudgetof 1.5dBfor40/100Gbps,atesttoleranceof1dBis not acceptable and testing with outdatedor inaccurate equipment/methods doesn’tmakesense.

The introduction of reference test cordswith reference connectors is a mandatorystepforreliableresults,sinceonlyreferencetest cords and connectors guarantee tighttolerancesandcomparability.Thismeansthatcommercial fibrepatchcords for testingareno longer allowed forgood reasons.

Asecondmajorstep isthegeometryofthepolishedend-face.Withmodernpolishingtechnologiesand3Danalysinginthefactory,thosetest leadsguaranteeprecisegeometrywhen theyareutilised.

ThetestmethodsforLSPMdeviceshavebeenreworked inordertocoverthecurrentgeneration of testers on the market andpractical situations in the field. The 1-test

cord method can be used if the tester hasa changeable interface or the installed fibrecable linkandthereferencetestcordshavethe same interface. Otherwise, the 3-testcord method should be used. This methodis independent of the tester and allows anyadaptionofinstalledconnectors.Abigbenefitforthe installer istheabilitytomeasuretheexact installed link.

In the end, both 1 and 3-test cord meth-ods of reference setting provide standards-compliant results.

Anotherimportantstepistheintroductionofencircledfluxformultimodetesting.Inthepast, the following phenomenon has beenseen: thesame linkmeasuredwithdifferenttestersandallresultsdiffersignificantly.ThereasonisthelightcharacteristicofLEDandVCSELlightsources.Multimodetransmissionismuchmorecomplicated than singlemode.Theenergydistributionof themodes isdif-ferent with each light source, resulting invariancesof the test results.

This explains the different results in thepast.TheworstcaseisanOTDRwithalasersource,whereallenergyisinthecentrepartof the fibre core. This frequently producesdifferent(usuallymoreoptimisticorartificiallybetter)resultsthanLSPMtestersorreal-lifemultimodesources in switches.

Theencircledfluxmethodofconditioningthelightdistributionwithinamultimodecoreofthelaunchtestcordiscurrentlyconsideredthemost accuratewayof launchdelivery.

Encircledfluxisthepercentageofpowerwithinagivenfibrecoreradius.Thedefinedtemplate,FigureA.1,ensuresconsistentlightsourceconditionsandthereforemoreaccurateand repeatable results.

The current dilemma is the non-existingdefinitionoflightsourceswithinLSPMtesters.Ifalltestequipmentuseddefinedandcatego-risedlightsources,thetestresultswouldbemoreconsistent.ExternalEFcontrollersmust

NOV/DEC 2013-ECDSOLUTIONS 5www.ECDsolutions.com.au

6ECDSOLUTIONS-NOV/DEC 2013 www.ECDsolutions.com.au

beusedtocontrolthelightconditionsunlesstheLSPMtestermanufacturercertifiesthatitsequipmentmeetscurrentEFrequirementsat the test cord end-face and is calibratedeachyear.Theuseofmandrelsnowneedsto be replaced by EF modcon test leadscomplete with reference connectors.

All necessary equipment is becomingavailable in test kits which contain EFtest cords for multimode LSPM or longerreference launch and tail test cords forOTDR devices.

OTDRTheOTDRisanotherrecognisedtestdeviceand has been used for many years aroundtheworld.However,thetypicalareaofap-plication is theWANorMAN.Duetoshortdistances and usability issues, the OTDRisnot recommended inLANs, and inmanycasesisnotallowedinthecaseofsystemswarranty submissions.

ThebiggestadvantageofanOTDRistheability to see the installed link on a trace.TheOTDRisabletoshoweachpartofthelinkasallcomponentshaveatypicalreflec-tion.Theattenuationisshownasadecliningcurvewhileaninterconnectiongeneratesapeak and a declining curve.

Compared to a power meter, the OTDRis able to measure an optical value whichhasgainedmoreimportanceovertheyearsin the LAN area - return loss. Each inter-connection causes a reflection and thereis an unwanted loss of the optical signal.Return loss is a common parameter in thetelecomsarea.Abadreturnlossmaycausehigh reflections and is able to destroy theexpensive lasersused in this environment.High-end interconnections have about65 dB return loss.

InLANmultimodeareas,returnlosscanbe controlled in the production phase and

as such is not a required field testingparameter. A high-end multimode inter-connection has a return loss of 35 dB,whilethestandardrequiresatleast20dB.

CleaningWith a budget of 1.5 dB for 40/100 Gbpsethernet,anydustorcontaminantsattheend-face may result in a non-functionalchannel.Formanyyears,cleaningandin-spectionofend-faceshasbeencompulsorybeforeconnectorsareused,evenforbrandnew cables. Most faults in the field arebased on dirt or contaminated end-facesor missing test equipment.

Therefore,cleaningequipmentisamustfor the installer or operator. This appliestoallconnectors,beit inthebulkheadortheendofapatchcord.Cleaningbecomesextremelyimportantwiththeintroductionofmulticoreconnectorend-faces,suchasMPO systems.

Cleanlinessofallconnectorinterfacesand special test cables and/or referenceplug connectors is important in obtain-ing correct, repeatable and reproducibleresults.Withsmallcorediametersof9or50 µm, the smallest particles on a con-nectorsurfacecandisturbandaffecttheresult.Theoftenpractisedquickwipeonclothing can lead to the surface appear-ance,sospeciallint-freeclothsoralcoholwipes should be used for cleaning.

The importance of a clean end-faceis shown in the pictures above. Twoconnectors have been mated one, twoand five times. Each time, more dust iscollected and even more critical are thedust particles moving towards the core.These have a deep impact for 1 and10Gbpschanneltesting.AsISO/IEC11801hasdefined,anysmallparticlesofdirtorcontaminants may see failure of the link

duringbothtestingandoperationphases.Dustparticlesmighthaveastronginflu-

enceontheconnectorattenuationandreturnloss as it disturbs the physical contactbetween the fibre cores.

Always check if end-faces are cleanbeforeconnectingconnectorstoeachother,andaftereveryre-patchingalsofirstcheckifend-facesareclean.Alwaysremovedustand dirt, and after removal check again.

Alwaysmakesurethatthetransmitteristurnedofforthereisnonetworkconnectionbeforeinspection.(Alwayspayattention/becareful when using a microscope.) Safetywhenlookingatfibreend-facesisparamount.Theuseofvideoprobesavoidstheriskofdirect exposure to the user’s eyes.

ConclusionThe information above summarises theneed for accurate and precise fibre-optictesting.Therearenew,tightlimitsrequiredfor fibre to suit the new higher bandwidthapplications.

Installers, consultants and end usersneedtobeawarethatthesestandardswillimpact on the testing set-up. Up-to-date,regularmaintenance and calibrationof thetestequipmentwithmoreprecisereferencetest cords comes at a price. On the otherhand, troubleshooting is very easy if thetest equipment is in a healthy condition.Manyfieldproblemssuchasgainsorhighloss occur due to bad test cords and testequipment.

Inadditiontoensuringthattestequipmentisuptostandard, it is importanttoensurethatmultimodeandsinglemodefibretestingis done according with ISO/IEC 14763-3.

TE ConnectivityContact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V513

Figure A.1 encircled flux

1st mating

Before

3rd mating

After cleaning

5th mating

TESTING

http://www.sereply.com


NewcodeofconductforsolarretailbusinessesA new voluntary code of conduct for solar photovoltaic (PV)retailbusinessesimposesstandardsforthemarketingandsaleof solar PV systems, which are in addition to their existingobligationsunderconsumerprotection legislation.The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission hasgrantedauthorisationforfiveyearstotheCleanEnergyCouncilLimited (CEC) for thecode.Thecodewill allow for the regulationof retailersof solarPVsystems to ensure that retailers maintain a standard that willbenefit consumers and the industry. “The retail purchase ofPVsolarsystemsisgenerallyaone-off,relativelycomplicatedpurchase forconsumersandmay involvedealingwithseveralparties,”ACCCCommissionerDrJillWalker said.“Thecodewill promoteconfidence in thePVsectorbygivinginformation to consumers to assist in purchasing decisions.ThecodewillalsopromotecompliancebyPVretailersthroughsanctionsandpublic reportingmechanisms,”DrWalker said.TheACCCreleasedadraftdeterminationinJuly2013proposingto grant authorisation to the CEC for its code for a period offive years. All submissions received following the draft deter-minationweresupportiveof theauthorisation.TheCECisanot-for-profitassociationresponsible fortheac-creditationofPVdesignersand installers.TheCEC isalreadyable to penalise any accredited installer that fails to installa PV system to the relevant Australian Standard. How ever,the retailers that subcontract installers are not covered by astandardother thanexistingconsumerprotection legislation.Authorisation provides statutory protection from court actionfor conduct that might otherwise raise concerns under thecompetition provisions of the Competition and Consumer Act2010. Broadly, the ACCC may grant an authorisation when itissatisfiedthat thepublicbenefit fromtheconductoutweighsanypublic detriment.TheACCChasauthorisedtheCECCodeuntil17October2018.

RevisedstandardsandcodeforVDSL2andvectoringTofacilitatethedeploymentofVDSL2andvectoringtechnologiesas part of the National Broadband Network (NBN), the Com-munications Alliance has revised the industry standards andlaunchedan industry code.

VDSL2 and vectoring are technologies that are used toincreasetherateatwhichdatacanbetransferredacrosscop-per networks. They are expected to underpin the inclusion of

fibretothenode(FTTN)inthemixofaccessmethodsthroughwhichthefutureNBNwillbedelivered-asspelledout inthebroadbandpoliciesof theAbbott government.

The Communications Alliance has created a working com-mitteethatwillrevisefourseparateco-regulatory instrumentsplus an informative brochure to incorporate arrangements fortheuseofVDSL2andvectoring.

CommunicationsAllianceCEOJohnStantonsaidtherelevantCommunicationsAllianceandAustralianStandardalreadymadeprovision for VDSL2, but that the industry code did not yetcoverVDSL2at thenetworkdeployment side.

“Giventhatvectoringhasemergedonlyrecentlyasawork-abletechnologytoboostdataspeedsviaFTTN,neitherourco-regulatory codenor theAustralianStandardyet encompassesit,”Stantonsaid.

“The revision of codes and standards to facilitate newtechnologies and new policy directions is an important partof ensuring thatAustralian industry is equipped to realise theplannedchanges to theway theNBN is rolledout.”

StantonsaidCommunicationsAlliancewillstayinclosecontactwithgovernmentandotherstakeholdersastheworkproceeds.

KNXapprovedasChineseStandardThehomeandbuildingcontrolstandardKNXhasbeenapprovedasChineseStandard (GB/T20965).KNXcomplieswiththerequirementsoftheinternationalstandard(ISO/IEC 14543-3) as well as with both European standards(CENELECEN50090andCENEN13321-1respectivelyEN13321-2)and theUSANSI/ASHRAE.The high interest in China for compatible KNX products andtechnology has encouraged the association to have the inter-national ISO/IEC approved Standard 14543-3 translated intoChinese.ThetranslatedKNXStandardwasfedintotheChinesestandardisationprocessviathestandardisationbodySACTC124andapprovedbythiscommitteeasGB/T20965,makingKNXtheonlyapprovedstandardforhomeandbuildingcontrolinChina.Chinaisexpectedtobeaprominentmarketforintelligentbuild-ingcontrol inthecomingyears.KNXiswellpreparedforthis:amultitudeofKNXmembercompanies (including20Chinesemembers) have already been active in this market for years;four certified training centres offer qualified KNX training forsystemintegrators,buildingdesignersand investors;aneutraltesting laboratorysupportsthemanufacturerswhencertifyingtheirproductsaccordingtotheKNXstandard;themanufacturerandproductindependentKNXcommissioningtoolETSisavail-able in Chinese; the KNX Handbook in Chinese offers a goodintroduction into theKNXtechnology.

© iS

tock

phot

o.co

m/G

uido

Vro

la

NEWS

NOV/DEC 2013 - ECD SOLUTIONS 9www.ECDsolutions.com.au

ANSI/ASHRAE/IES Standard 90.1-2013, Energy Standard for Buildings Except Low-Rise Residential Buildings incorpo-rates 110 addenda, refl ecting changes made through the public review process. Appendix F gives brief descrip-

tions and publication dates of the addenda to 90.1-2010 refl ected in this new edition.

“While many things have changed since the fi rst version of Standard 90 was published in 1975, the need to reduce building energy use and cost has not,” Steve Skalko, chair of the committee that wrote the 2013 standard, said. “This standard represents many advances over the 2010 standard, as we worked toward our goal of making the standard 40 to 50% more stringent than the 2004 standard.”

“Achieving the stringency goals established for the 2013 standard presented a challenge in reducing the requirements for lighting,” Rita Harrold, director of technology for the Illuminating Engineering Soci-ety of North America, said. “While interior lighting power densities (LPD) were re-evaluated and most lowered, there continues to be an ongoing concern about maintaining quality of lighting installations for occupant satisfaction and comfort while achieving energy savings. The focus in the 2013 standard, therefore, was not just on lowering LPDs but on fi nding ways to achieve savings by adding more controls and daylighting requirements as well as including lighting limits for exterior applications based on jurisdictional zoning.”

The most signifi cant changes are:Building Envelope: Opaque elements and fenestration require-

ments have been revised to increase stringency while maintaining a reasonable level of cost-effectiveness. Opaque and fenestration assemblies in Tables 5.5-1 through 5.5-8 are revised in most climates. These changes include:

• Criteria requiring double glazed fenestration in many climates.• Minimum visible transmittance/solar heat gain coeffi cient (VT/

SHGC) ratio to enable good daylighting with minimum solar gain, while not restricting triple and quadruple glazing.

• Simplifi cation of the skylighting criteria.

Lighting: Changes include improvements to daylighting and daylighting controls, space-by-space lighting power density limits, thresholds for toplighting and revised controls requirements and format.

Mechanical: Equipment effi ciencies are increased for heat pumps, packaged terminal air conditioners, single package vertical heat pumps, air conditioners and evaporative condensers. Additional provisions address commercial refrigeration equipment, improved controls on heat rejection and boiler equipment, requirements for expanded use of energy recovery, small motor effi ciencies and fan power control and credits. Control revision requirements have been added to the standard such as direct digital controls in many applications. Finally, the 2013 edition completes the work that was begun on equipment effi ciencies for chillers in the 2010 edition.

Energy Cost Budget (ECB) & Modelling: Improvements were made to the ECB and Appendix G provisions to clarify the use of the prescriptive provisions when performing building energy use modelling. In addition, these sections were revised to enhance capturing daylighting when doing the modelling calculations.

Another important change for the 2013 standard is the fi rst alternate compliance path in Chapter 6. Section 6.6 was added to the 2010 edition to provide a location for alternate methods of compliance with the standard. The fi rst such alternate path has been developed for computer room systems and was formulated with the assistance of ASHRAE technical committee 9.9, Mission Critical Facilities, Data Centers, Technology Spaces and Electronic Equipment. This path uses the power usage effectiveness (PUE) metric established by the datacom industry. This alternate effi ciency path format provides a framework that could be considered for other energy using facets of buildings not easily covered in the prescriptive provisions of the standard.

Also new to the standard are requirements for operating esca-lators and moving walkways at minimum speed per ASME A17.1 when not conveying passengers.

STANDARDS AND GUIDELINES

Major changes to requirements regarding building envelope, lighting, mechanical and the energy cost budget are contained in the newly published energy standard from ASHRAE and IES.

MAJOR CHANGES TO ENERGY STANDARD

© iS

tock

phot

o.co

m/A

lija

10 ECD SOLUTIONS - NOV/DEC 2013 www.ECDsolutions.com.au

E-BUSINESS

Online business opportunities provide many obvious benefi ts, including: access to new markets; extending business beyond traditional trading hours; receiving payments more immediately; reducing inventories; and reducing

the overheads associated with operating in physical premises.However, doing business online does not come without risks

- both to the business owner and to customers. The world of e-commerce, and the sharing and transfer of information in a digital form, increases exposure to those wishing to use and manipulate this data for their own benefi t. Unfortunately, such actions by those operating in the darker side of the online world implicitly damage the faith of customers, and the reputations of organisations who conduct business over the internet.

As online operations become more mainstream, and even the more conservative and tech-averse customers start to look online, it will become increasingly critical to the success of a business that it can show it is operating in a secure and safe environment. Some considerations for business owners include:

Ensure privacy laws are not breached: It is important to under-stand exactly what information is being collected and held about customers, and to ensure this is only given to appropriate persons within the organisation to conduct business transactions. Protect data from external threats. Appropriate levels of network security are crucial in ensuring that business and customer information is not subject to theft, alteration or damage from external attack.

Restrict access to information: Ensure that only people who have legitimate reasons for using business information have access to it. It is also important to ensure that individuals are not able

to alter this information without good reason and that a review process is in place in relation to such changes.

Have a disaster plan: Check that the organisation has appro-priate backup, disaster recovery and business continuity plans in place. For organisations that operate online, information is their lifeblood. Without information it is diffi cult, if not impossible, to operate. The preparation - and testing - of recovery and continuity plans is important.

Maintain integrity of data: Errors in the management of data can be costly to organisations, resulting in the dissemination of incorrect information and the possibility of making bad business decisions based on poor data. Reduce the risk of this occurring by maintaining standardised processes for capturing and entering data, and ongoing review of data sets for items that will corrupt their integrity.

The challenge ahead for businesses operating online is to balance the needs of getting business done while protecting the business information. Without either, surviving in the long term can be a diffi cult proposition.

*As a partner in the Audit and Assurance team of HLB Mann Judd, Chris has responsibility for managing the internal audit and risk management functions. He also manages a diverse portfolio of external audit clients. Chris’s background is varied, having worked extensively in both the chartered accounting profession and in the commercial environment.

MANAGING THE RISKS OF DOING BUSINESS ONLINE Chris King*

http://www.flir.com

Your vision

Thermal image

www.flir.comFor more information about the new FC-Series S and Compact

D-Series or any other FLIR thermal imaging camera please contact:

FLIR Systems Pty Ltd. Free Call AU: 1300 729 987 NZ: 0800 785 492 Email: [email protected]

ISO No. FLIR20873 Images for illustrative purposes only. The images displayed may not be representative of the actual resolution of the camera shown.

If your security system is all bells and whistles but can’t show you whether it’s a possum or a person climbing your perimeter fence then FLIR’s new range of thermal imaging security cameras will give you a much clearer picture.

Available in a wide range of performance models including the new FC-Series S and the new Compact D-Series outdoor domes, the FLIR network-ready camera range is now more affordable than ever for your surveillance and security applications.

Whatever mother nature dishes out - blinding sun, fog, smoke, pouring rain or complete darkness - FLIR fixed-mount cameras deliver the sharpest thermal images known to man, day or night.

Here’s how:

Crisp Thermal Images - More pixels allow the user to see more detail in even smaller objects at a greater distance. Choose which resolution of crisp image quality you need: 640 x 480, 320 x 240 or 160 x 120 pixels.

Excellent Range - FLIR thermal imaging cameras can detect targets several kilometres away.

Digital Detail Enhancement - Providing high contrast imagery in almost all weathers optimised for video analytics software.

Wide Dynamic Range - Delivering high quality images even when full sun is in the field of view. Ideal for working with video analytics.

Thermal image without Wide Dynamic Range (WDR).

High contrast scene with standard AGC algorithm applied.

Thermal image with Wide Dynamic Range (WDR).

DDE applied – all targets can be observed simultaneously.

Don’t call security. Call FLIR for the complete picture.

Compact D-Series

NEW FC-Series S

640480

x

320240

x

160120

x


Themarketfor lightingcontrols incommercialbuildingshasenteredaperiodofdramatictransformation,asthedemandforbothlocalcontrols,suchasoccupancysen-sorsandphotosensors,andnetworkedcontrolsrisesand

theadoption rateof light-emittingdiode (LED) lightingsystemsbegins to climb as well.

Navigant Research predicts the worldwide revenue fromnetworked lighting controls to grow from $1.7 billion annuallyin 2013 to more than $5.3 billion by 2020. “Building ownersand managers, who are accustomed to the idea of centrallymonitoring and managing their heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems, are beginning to expect the same levelof control from lighting systems,” says Jesse Foote, researchanalyst with Navigant Research.

“To meet this growing demand, a number of different typesof vendors - including pure-play start-up companies and tradi-tionallightingvendors-aremovingaggressivelyintothelightingcontrols market.”

As falling prices for LEDs drive up adoption rates of LEDlamps,theadoptionof lightingcontrolswillalsoaccelerate,thestudyconcludes.ThesemiconductornatureofLEDsmakestheminherently controllable, with a high degree of dimmability, easyintegrationofcontrolswithdriversandinstantaneousstart-up.Infact,manyLEDlampsarebeingsoldwithbuilt-incontrollability,whether or not there are plans to make use of those features.

Thereport,‘IntelligentLightingControlsforCommercialBuild-ings’, analyses the global market for lighting controls for com-mercialbuildings,includingbothnewconstructionandretrofits.

Sensors, ballasts, drivers, switches, relays, controllers and

communicationstechnologiesareexamined,withaspecificfocuson networked lighting controls. The report details the marketdrivers for these technologies, as well as barriers to adoption,andincludesprofilesofselectindustryplayers.Marketforecastsfor unit shipments and revenue for each type of equipment,segmented by region and building type, extend through 2020.Forecasts are also broken out for control equipment in build-ings with networked lighting controls, as well as for wirelesslighting controls and LED drivers.

Leadingtheinnovativesideofthemarketarepure-playstart-upcompanies,whicharelargelyresponsiblefortheproliferationof creative ways to visualise lighting usage and devise newstrategiestomanagelightingenergyconsumption.Thetraditionallighting companies have begun offering a complete range oflighting control products, from local sensors to building-widesoftware. Established building controls companies have alsobeen expanding their capabilities to include lighting controlsalong with other building-wide control systems.

THE SEMICONDUCTOR NATURE OF LEDS MAKES THEM

INHERENTLY CONTROLLABLE, WITH A HIGH DEGREE

OF DIMMABILITY, EASY INTEGRATION OF CONTROLS

WITH DRIVERS AND INSTANTANEOUS START-UP.

IN FACT, MANY LED LAMPS ARE BEING SOLD WITH

BUILT-IN CONTROLLABILITY, WHETHER OR NOT THERE

ARE PLANS TO MAKE USE OF THOSE FEATURES.

MARKET ANALYSIS©

sto

ck.x

chng

/pro

file/

nick

obec

LIGHTINGCONTROLSMARKETTOREACH$5.3BILLION


NEWPRODUCTS

Mobile DVR solutionBackplane Systems Technology has released the VBOX-3600-V4, an intelligent in-vehicle

surveillance system from iSafe.

The VBOX-3600-V4 is a mobile DVR solution, which can be connected simultaneously

to four IP cameras and up to eight analog cameras; a feature which greatly increases

integration flexibility. The VBOX-3600-V4 not only incorporates DVR capability within one

system, it also provides (powered by the Intel HD4000 GPU with hardware decoder and

encoder) the intelligent video analytics feature. For instance, the automatic licence plate

reading functionality (ANPR/LPR).

The VBOX-3600-V4 Hybrid Mobile DVR system is equipped with AN Intel 3rd Generation

Core i7-3517UE processor up to 2.8 GHz and has a compact design, making it suitable for

space-critical, in-vehicle applications. Incorporating an all-in-one vehicle environment friendly motherboard,

VBOX-3600-V4 provides high-quality digital recording on 4-8 channel D1 resolution, real-time display

(NTSC 720X480, PAL 720/576) and supports up to four channel wide range megapixel IP cameras.

Equipped with a dual SIM card slot and four Mini-PCIe sockets, the VBOX-3600-V4 supports LTE/3G network,

Wi-Fi 802.11n a/b/g or access point mode, GPS with dead reckoning positioning and Bluetooth connectivity.

Also with two physical 2.5″ hot swappable SATA storage spaces with RAID 0, 1 function, it is convenient to

separate OS storage and image data storage.

The VBOX-3600-V4 is a solution for mobile security and surveillance applications within coaches, trains,

buses, locomotive rail cars, mission-critical fleets and law-enforced vehicles like police cars.

Backplane Systems Technology Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/T155

Full HD PTZ surveillance camerasCanon’s full HD powered pan tilt zoom (PTZ) dome cameras (VB-S30D,

VB-S31D, VB-S800D and VB-S900F) have been developed specifically

for anti-crime and operations surveillance purposes and are IEEE802.1X

compliant.

The range is suitable for retail and commercial environments, office

surveillance, building security and operations management. The cameras

feature the company’s high-end Canon lenses in a miniature form providing

good image quality and low-light performance, are very easy to install and offer

a good set of advanced intelligent features.

A new function, auto smart shade control (Auto SSC), is also built into the whole range. This main-

tains image sharpness even when shadows are generated by backlight or other causes, ensuring correct

brightness of the entire image. Faces and other subject matter being viewed remain sharp and clearly

visible even with bright light in the background.

All the cameras feature Canon engineered D!GIC DVIII and D!GIC NET II processors used in the company’s

high-end cinema cameras. The multi-streaming capability allows footage to be watched in full HD (live) and

provides users with an option of recording the video in varying compressed formats and lower resolutions to

extend recording capacity.

Features of the VB-S30D include: high image quality 3.5 x optical zoom with AF; horizontal wide-angle view of

77.7°; low light performance (0.95 Lux for colour video); diverse intelligent functions; PoE compliant for easy and

quick one-cable power supply; microSD card slot, LAN terminal, I/O, audio terminal; ONVIF profile S support.

Features of the VB-S31D (1 x PT dome), VB-S800D (1 x fixed dome) and VB-S900F (1 x fixed box type)

include: wide-angle 95° bright F1.6 single focal Canon lens; low-light capability (0.5 Lux for colour video);

microSD card slot, LAN terminal, I/O, audio terminal; ONVIF profile S support.

The VB-S31D and VB-S800D cameras are equipped with remote PT function (VB-S31D) and the VB-S800D

is able to be installed to the wall.

Canon Australia Pty Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/U969


Process Industry Transportation Security Systems

Wind Energy Photovoltaics Communications

DEHN AustraliaEMAIL: [email protected]: www.dehn.com.auTEL: +61 (03) 8414 8277PO Box 290, South Melbourne, VIC 3205 AustraliaDistributors throughout Australia and New Zealand

NEWPRODUCTS

User interface panelsPhilips Dynalite has released the

AntumbraTouch second user inter-

face design in its Antumbra range

for networked control systems used

in high-end residential, hospitality

and commercial market segments.

The AntumbraTouch has a

smooth glass finish and uses ‘ca-

pacitive touch’ technology to detect

the presence of a finger on various

locations of the glass to trigger the

button-press action, similar to that

of a smartphone interface.

Like the AntumbraButton user

interface, the AntumbraTouch panel can be custom configured to have

different button combinations and perform a vast range of functions that

enable users to create local lighting scenes, monitor temperature and

manage site-wide networked devices such as blinds and HVAC systems.

The architecturally minimalist Antumbra panel features hidden sensory

inputs including proximity sense, light level sense and temperature sense

for control of the local environment and to reduce the need for additional

unsightly temperature sensors.

The panel is able to detect a user’s presence and will ‘light up’, result-

ing in a wall wash effect welcoming the user to interact with the device.

Philips Dynalite

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V245

Wi-Fi repeater extenderHoneywell has released the Wi-Fi Repeater

Extender (WREX), a device that extends Wi-Fi

signals, expanding the number of locations in

homes and businesses where security dealers

can install Wi-Fi IP cameras.

Adding wireless IP cameras in areas that may

be out of range of a customer’s existing Wi-Fi router can be challenging.

WREX fills the signal gap by repeating the existing Wi-Fi signals to help

eliminate dead zones.

The WREX comes as a plug-and-play device that is ready for deployment

out of the box. Configuration is easy thanks to push-button Wi-Fi protected

setup (WPS) and an available wired ethernet connection. WREX conforms

to the most popular wireless standards: 802.11n, 802.11g or 802.11 b.

Wi-Fi signal strength bars and a diagnostic screen have been added

to the video section on web-based Honeywell Total Connect Remote

Services. This addition will help installers diagnose range issues, most

of which can be resolved by adding the WREX.

Since the cameras are portable, this can help users diagnose why a

camera stopped working when moved to a new location. This improve-

ment has been implemented on the web interface and will be extended

to mobile apps, the company says.

Honeywell Limited


http://www.dehn.com.au


AHOLISTICAPPROACHTOSECURITYMichael Brookes*

Securityisattheforefrontofmanyanexecutives’minds,andtocompoundtheissuestheindustryis undergoing a transformation - or what theindustry pundits term as convergence. Thisarticle discusses the challenges presented bythe convergence of physical security and ITand the benefits of a holistic approach.

What is meant by convergence? A quick Google searchwill give you a plethora of explanations, one of whichfits the security convergence topic quite well:

“Acomingtogetherfromdifferentdirections,especiallya uniting or merging of groups or tendencies that were originallyopposed orvery different.”

There is now a need to think of security as an integral com-ponent of risk management, as a business imperative, not just a‘have to have’, or a sunk cost. This means that business ownersneedtothinklaterallyabouttheinvestmentinsecurity;howcantheinvestment be leveraged in other areas such as employee benefitsor occupational health and safety improvements. Businesses needto think about ownership and accountability - where before therewere silos, now there needs to be a holistic approach.

Designofasecuritysolutiontoaddressthese issuesrequiresabalancingactbetweensafetyandservice,dutyofcareandregulatorycompliance.No longer issecurityviewedasthesole responsibilityofthesecuritymanager;itnowwarrantsamoreintegratedapproachincorporatingmorecontemporaryfunctionsofplanning,managementandpeople-focusedservices.Security,alongwithsafetyandemer-gencymanagement,shouldbeakeyconsiderationduringthe initialplanningprocesstoensurethatworkflowsareseamlesslyintegratedwithtechnologytodeliverthemostcost-effectiveoutcomesforthefacility.Itisimportanttoworkwithorganisationscapableofdeliveringcomprehensive and best-of-breed security solutions. This providesthebenefitsofaccountability,riskmitigationandknowledgetransfernot typically available from a multivendor approach.

From a technology perspective this has certain implications;whereonceitwascommonpracticetopurchasesecuritysystems

based on their individual functionality - access control, CCTV,intrusion detection, perimeter detection, fire detection etc - with-out too much concern about their level of interoperability, thereis now more of a need than ever to have these systems sharingdata and integrating with the organisation’s standard operatingprocedures. The widespread adoption of internet protocol (IP) ishelpingdelivertheseoutcome-basedsecuritysolutions,bothfroman implementation standpoint where there is more of a ‘plug andplay’environmentthatoftenutilisesthecorporatenetworkandfroma process standpoint where backup, restoration and data storagenow falls in line with IT practices. This convergence with IT canalsosimplify the installationprocessby removing theneed toputin place disparate systems that each require their own dedicatedinfrastructure,insteadtakingadvantageoftheenterprisenetwork,consolidating hardware and utilising open systems protocols toprovide interoperability between systems.

This move towards security convergence is delivering somereal benefits such as improved operational efficiencies, betterriskmanagementandreducedcosts,andthe investment isslowlybecoming shared across the business as technologies such asnumberplate recognitionandcrowdmonitoringarebeingusedtoenhance the customer experience.

•Centralisedmonitoringandcontrolprovidesanenterpriseviewof the facility, simplifying incident management and reducingresponse times.

•Event-basedautomatedworkflowsreducetheneedformanualintervention, freeing upvaluable resources.

•Earlydetectionandnotificationofeventsenablestheappropri-ate response to be taken in a time of crisis.


SECURITY CONVERGENCE

•Automatedincidentresponseenablesfastrestorationofnormalbusiness operations.

•Reduced capital costs are achieved through a converged ICTinfrastructureresultinginlowerhardwareandcablingrequire-ments.

•Anopen,futureproofsystemthroughtheuseofIPnetworking.•Early identificationof customersenablesapersonalisedcus-

tomer experience.Prior to the onslaught of convergence, our technical experts

also fell into their respective silos; network specialists, serverspecialists, application specialists, security installers, securityguards, and the list goes on … Convergence means we need torevisit this traditional approach - we are now looking for techni-cal experts with well-rounded experience that can demonstratean appreciation of all aspects of security and how they impactthe business. This requirement is recognised by our educationalinstitutions with qualifications such as BSc Internetworking &Security Degree; Bachelor of Security Analysis being on offer.This, however, presents its own set of challenges.

Firstly, there is a time lag between school-leavers attendinguniversity and being employable. This means that we may needtoupskilltheworkforcewecurrentlyhaveor looktoengagespe-cialistorganisationscapableofprovidingthebroadrangeofskillsrequired; many of the traditional physical security organisationshavedevelopedtheseskillsaspartoftherapidgrowthopportuni-ties in their industry.

Thenthere is the remunerationdebate.Again,our twoendsofthesecurityspectrumhavehistoricallyhadverydisparateworkingconditionsandpaystructures.Howdoesacompanyretainall the

requiredskillsetsandatthesametimemaintainequitableconditionsfor all involved.Creating a culture inwhich physical security andIT personnel work well together can be difficult; these staff oftenhave different perspectives, priorities and reporting relationships.This factor alone suggests that a culture of corporate securitymanagementneedstobedrivenfromthehighest levelswithintheorganisation,ideallywithvisibilityandrepresentationatboardlevel.

Fortheindividualsinvolvedin,orlookingtogetinvolvedin,thesecurity industry, it is an exciting time. There are opportunitiesaplentyontheemploymentscene;therearenewskillstolearnandsome large projects in the wind. The traditional physical securityorganisations have broadened their horizons and now look to in-clude IT-skilled people when doing their recruitment; conversely,IT organisations are including what were traditionally physicalsecurity solutions such as IP CCTV in their portfolio.

All inall, thereareclearbenefits tobederived fromanactive,strategic approach to corporate securitymanagement and the im-plementationofaconvergedsecurityinfrastructure.Organisationscantakeaholisticviewtowardsriskmanagementandcompliancewhile reaping the rewards of systems that have lower costs ofadministration and support. Those seeking to embark on such astrategyneedtobeclearontheoutcomesexpectedandensurethatbuy-in is gained at all levels; these strategies need to be closelyaligned with business objectives and not be viewed as simply asecurityproject.Aphasedapproachshouldbetakenandappropri-ate timeallocated to theprocess.Keyobjectives should be set tomeasure the benefits of each stage as it is rolled out.

Security convergence is here, with all of its challenges andbenefits as we have seen with other technologies like voice overIP (VoIP). How we reap the rewards both organisationally andindividually is up to us.

*Michael Brookes is the Regional Leader of Marketing and Stra-tegic Development for Honeywell Building Solutions in Australia and New Zealand. In this role, Brookes spends time analysing customers’ critical business requirements to ensure that Honey-well’s products and services are aligned to customer needs. In his 10 years at Honeywell, Brookes has covered a broad range of industries such as healthcare, industrial plants, airports, correctional and government facilities, and stadiums, where he has seen the application of integrated security solutions deliver demonstrable results to business. He has written a number of published thought leadership articles on security and has presented at various trade shows and conferences.

Honeywell LimitedContact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V500

THE MOVE TOWARDS SECURITY CONVERGENCE IS

DELIVERING SOME REAL BENEFITS SUCH AS IMPROVED

OPERATIONAL EFFICIENCIES, BETTER RISK MANAGEMENT

AND REDUCED COSTS.

©iS

tock

pho

to.c

om/a

kind

o


NEWPRODUCTS

Wireless securityRisco Group has launched the Agil-

ity 3 wireless security solution for

residential and small commercial

installations. The offering combines

state-of-the-art visual verification

with a smartphone app in addition

to providing wireless security and

safety features.

The solution is powered by eyeWave, a wireless PIR detector with

integrated camera. The product communicates with the Risco Cloud

server and enables users to seamlessly self-monitor their premises, as

well as providing a service to central monitoring stations.

In the event of an alarm, the PIR camera is automatically activated

and captures a sequence of images which it sends to users via a

smartphone/web application. Users can view these images, enabling the

immediate confirmation of a crime in progress while drastically reduc-

ing the number of false alarms, saving valuable time and resources.

Users can also perform additional functions including arming/disarming

their alarm systems remotely, viewing detector status and bypass zones,

and viewing a history of events which is saved on the Risco Cloud.

In addition to its visual verification and remote management capabili-

ties, the product features advanced communication, simple installation

and a complete range of wireless peripherals. The main panel features

dual-core wireless technology, SIA-IP support, a digital voice module

and multilingual support for voice and keypad display.

RISCO Group Australia Pty Ltd


Light-sensitive camerasMadison Technologies has

released three camera models

from Mobotix that possess a

higher frame rate, better light

sensitivity and better zoom capa-

bility using 5 MP sensors.

The Mobotix camera models S15, D15

and V15, developed from the predecessor series, use 5 MP

sensors to provide better light sensitivity in low light conditions

or at night. The light sensitivity of the overall image quality is

said to be up to four times better.

The maximum QXGA resolution is therefore more than 2.5

times higher than full HD. Another major benefit is that the new

sensor technology, in combination with pre-processing the im-

age data directly in the camera, delivers a video stream frame

rate of up to 30 frames/s.

With the S15, D15 and V15, by using the new sensor tech-

nology, Mobotix has increased the zoom option in colour by

27% and by more than 200% in black and white. This results

in more detailed images and allows for the camera to be

positioned further away from the monitored areas. This allows

users to benefit from increased flexibility when it comes to

planning and installation.

The camera models are equipped with the MxActivitySensor

for camera-integrated video motion analysis. Once configured,

the included software can distinguish between relevant and

irrelevant movements, reducing the number of false alarms.

Madison Technologies


http://www.comtest.com.au


Setting new benchmarks for efficiency and design

CAS

E ST

UDY

DoltoneHouse,HydePark,oneofSydney’smosticonicvenues,hasundergoneamajorrefurbishmentthatisexpectedtoleadtosignificantimprovementsinenergyefficiency.

Functionandeventvenuesdemandhigh-performancelightingsolutionstoseamlesslyadapttothevariedusesofthebuilding.The revamped venue features 5-metre-high ceilings with anabundance of natural light via floor-to-ceiling spectacularwindows. It also features a sweeping double-stitched blackleather staircase and purpose-made crystal chandeliers,which represent a modern interpretation of old-world glamourbefitting Doltone House’s dress circle position overlookingHydePark.

Working closely with electrical contractors Alland Group(www.allandgroup.com.au) and lighting consultants Lighting,Art+Science(www.laands.com.au),mySmartCTIdesignedanddeliveredaC-Buslightingandblindcontrolsystemthatiseasytouseandmeetstheflexibilityofthedifferentvenuespaces.

ThelightingcontrolsystemusesacombinationoffeaturelightsdirectlyswitchedthroughC-BusrelaysandDALI-controlledhouselightfittings.Thereasonforhavingsuchacombinationof lightcontrols is that the spectacular installation light fittings do notrequiredimmingandassuchthereisnorequirementforthemtohaveDALIcompatibility.

ThehouselightfittingsbenefitfromDALIcontrolbybeingabletobe individuallyaddressedandoperatedthroughanumberofpresetdimming-basedscenes.TheuseofDALI also facilitateseaseofreconfiguringtheeventspacesshouldtheneedariseinthe future.Back-of-house lighting isalsocontrolledviaC-Bus;however,itusesmanualswitchpointsforstafftobeeasilyabletoaccesslightinginthesespaceswhilestillgivingcentralcontrolviathetouchscreens.

TheC-Buscontrolequipmentisinstalledwithincustom-builtDIN-railenclosuresadjacenttotheassociateddistributionboards.Tomaintainthenecessarysystemredundancyandstabilityperlevel,thesystemusesabackbonenetworktointerlinkthedifferentfloors.

Automatedblindsandcurtainsarenowthedefactostandardforpremiumeventvenuesastheirabilitytobecentrallycontrolledmeansthatroomscanbeseamlesslyconfiguredatthetouchofabutton.C-BusBlindrelaysareusedtoswitchblindsandlouvresdirectlyfromtheDLTswitchesandtouchscreen.

Numerous DLT switches throughout the event rooms and acentraltouchscreenallowpresetlightingscenestobeeasilycalledup.Thetouchscreenalsoallowsroomstobelinkedtogetherandpresetscenestobemodified.Themainpageofthetouchscreenallowsactivationofthefourpresets,controlofblockoutandshadeblinds,andaccesstootherrooms/areas.

mySmart Pty Ltd



NEWPRODUCTS

IP surveillanceAxis Communications has announced a major

upgrade to the Axis Camera Companion free

software client that doubles the recording

capacity when using SD memory cards.

The release also includes new features

such as multiple user access levels and

joystick support.

The company has also added support

for 64 GB SDXC cards in all network video

products with SD card capabilities, so users

will benefit from the doubled recording capac-

ity, meaning that each camera can record

over one month of video in HDTV quality.

In addition to support for 64 GB SDXC

cards, the version includes support for ad-

ministrator, operator and viewer user-access

levels, so that system access for different

users can be restricted. Joystick support for

efficient control of Axis PTZ network cameras

is also available.

The Axis Camera Companion allows small

business owners to use HDTV network cam-

eras to help them clearly identify intruders,

shoplifters and other incidents. Video can

be viewed live and recordings played back

from anywhere - onsite or remotely over the

internet. The system supports motion detec-

tion and pan/tilt/zoom control. Video clips

and snapshots can be easily exported to

colleagues and authorities, and the system

supports third-party apps for viewing live

and recorded video on smartphones and

tablets, such as iPhone, iPad and Android.

Unlike analog surveillance installations,

AXIS Camera Companion does not require

a central recording device - a digital video

recorder (DVR), network video recorder (NVR)

or even a computer. All images are recorded

onto a standard SD memory card in each

camera, and the cameras keep recording

even if the network fails. The cameras

are powered over the network, eliminating

the need for separate power cables. This

reduces cost, simplifies installation and

makes the system more robust as there is

no single point of failure. Additionally, exist-

ing analog cameras can be integrated via

video encoders.

Axis Communications (S) Pte Ltd

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/S628

Stainless steel jacksPfaff-silberblau has released stainless steel SSP and SHE screw jacks for extreme

environment corrosive applications, including the paper-making process industry,

food-grade production and offshore applications.

Lifting capacities for the SSP with integrally cast swivel brackets range from 15T to

25T. All components that can come into contact with corrosive materials have

been made from corrosion-resistant materials, making these new models

the toughest jacks possible.

Fresh design ideas focus on easy cleaning, from the shape of the

specially designed stainless steel housing, right through every component

that comes into contact with the harshest of corrosives. The lift screw, bearing

housing caps and clevis are also made in stainless steel, the worm wheel and

guide rings from special bronze, with all fasteners in corrosion-resistant materials.

New advances in the housing design have extending to the motor mounting,

with SSP jacks having the mounting face built into the casting, with externally

threaded mounting screws. There are no bearing covers, the new design dispenses

with tapered roller input bearings and replaces these with angular contact ball bearings.

SSP stainless jacks are self-locking, with their whirled screw shafts available in any length

required. The clevis or head can be standard or made to requirements, again in stainless

steel. Two ratios are available (N and L) and the jack can be configured as a travelling

screw or a travelling special nut to user dimensions.

For applications not requiring a pivoting mount, Pfaff-silberblau offers the traditional SHE

series now in full stainless steel construction. Three different housings give a range of 3T

to 15T, with the N and ratios complementing the range.

Pfaff-silberblau stainless steel jacks are delivered standard with mineral-grease-based

lubricants, but can also be delivered with food-grade grease, or other special purpose

lubricants without need for any modifications.

Motion Technologies Pty Ltd


Miniature PIR presence detectorsThe EBMPIR-MB series miniature PIR (passive

infrared) presence detectors from CP Electronics

have been specifically engineered for mounting

directly onto a batten-style luminaire.

The detectors provide automatic control of

lighting loads, with optional manual control for easy management. They are suitable for

retrofits and help improve energy-saving efficiency of existing installations. The EBMPIR-MB

detects movement using a PIR detector and turns the load on. When an area is no longer

occupied, the load will switch off after an adjustable time-out period.

The detectors are suitable for a wide range of applications such as storage rooms, stairwells

and parking areas. They are fully programmable using an infrared programming handset

(available separately). Uploaded with the Version 2 software designed by CP Electronics,

the EBMPIR-MB’s enhanced capabilities include the ability to program settings without the

removal of the detector, or needing direct access to it.

The units are IP65 rated, making them suitable for both outdoor use and in damp areas.

A selection of fixing components is supplied to allow easy incorporation into a variety of

luminaire styles. The manufacturing default for the DD detectors is DALI.

CP Electronics Australia


http://www.pacificdatacom.com.au


Now, your customers can manage both their UPS and energy proactively

Today’s more sophisticated server and networking technologies require higher availability. That means your customers need more sophisticated power protection to keep their business up and running at all times. But that’s not all. In today’s economy, their UPS must safeguard both their uptime and bottom line. Only APC by Schneider Electric™ helps your customers meet both of these pressing needs. Specifically, the APC Smart-UPS™ family now boasts models with advanced management capabilities, including the ability to manage their energy in server rooms, retail stores, branch offices, network closets, and other distributed environments.

Intelligent UPS management softwarePowerChute™ Business Edition, which comes standard with Smart-UPS 5 kVA and below, enables energy usage and energy cost reporting so your customers can save energy and money by tracking energy usage and costs over time; CO2 emissions monitoring to reduce environmental impact through increased understanding; and risk assessment reporting so they can identify and proactively manage threats to availability (e.g., ageing batteries)

Best-in-class UPSOur intelligent, interactive, energy-saving APC Smart-UPS represents the combination of more than 25 years of Legendary Reliability™ with the latest in UPS technology including an easy-to-read, interactive, alpha numeric LCD display to keep you informed of important status, configuration, and diagnostic information, a unique battery life expectancy predictor, and energy-saving design features, like a patent-pending ‘green’ mode.

Now, more than ever, every cost matters and performance is critical. That’s why you should insist on the more intelligent, more intuitive APC Smart-UPS.

Only APC Smart-UPS saves money and energy without sacrificing availability

Why Smart-UPS is asmarter solution

Intuitive alpha-numeric displayGet detailed UPS and power quality information at a glance – including status, about, and diagnostic log menus in up to five languages.

Configurable interface Set up and control key UPS para-meters and functions using the intuitive navigation keys. On rack/tower convertible models, the display rotates 90 degrees for easy viewing.

Energy savingsA patent-pending ‘green’ mode achieves online efficiencies greater than 97 per cent, reducing heat loss and utility costs.

CO2

Energy Usage and Energy Cost Reporting: Save energy and money by tracking energy usage and costs over time

CO2 Emissions Monitoring: Reduce environmental impact through increased understanding of CO2 emissions

Risk Assessment: Identify and proactively manage threats to availability (e.g., ageing batteries)

Does you customer already own a UPS?

If your customer owns a UPS less than 3years old, they can TradeUP and receive DOUBLE the benefits:Free environmentally friendly disposal of your old unitPLUS receive a rebate on your new APC purchaseGo to tradeups.apcpacific.com for more information

©2013 Schneider Electric. All Rights Reserved. Schneider Electric, APC, Back-UPS, and Legendary Reliability are owned by Schneider Electric Industries SAS or its affiliated companies. e-mail:[email protected] • 78 Waterloo Road, Macquarie Park, NSW 2113 AUSTRALIA • Tel: 1800 652 725

Put APCs knowledge to work for you and download a FREE copy of White Paper # 10: “Preventing Data Corruption in the Event of an Extended Power Outage”.Visit www.apc.com/promo Key Code 53497K

Pacific Datacom, part of the L&H Group, with seven offices nationally is a specialist distributor of communication infrastructure solutions. Pacific Datacom are a proud distributor of the APC range of products.

Please visit www.pacificdatacom.com.au or call PDC today, on 1300 301 006, to find out more!


ACADEMANDSTOUGHACTIONAFTERIMPORTEDCABLEFAILSSAFETYTESTS

The Australian Cablemakers Association (ACA) is calling fortougher action on imported electrical cables which do notmeetAustralianStandardsfollowingarecallofInfinitybrandelectrical cables by NSW Fair Trading. The issue relates to

thesub-standardPVCinsulationandsheathingcompoundwhichcouldresult in seriouselectric shocksor fire.

TheACAbroughtthissafety issuewithNSW-based InfinityCableCo Pty Ltd to the attention of Energy Safe Victoria and NSW FairTradingafterACAmembersconductedin-housetestsofInfinitycableaswellascommissioning,attheACA’sexpense,anindependenttestbyTUVRheinland.

As a result, Infinity has been asked to recall three batches ofInfinity brand thermo-plastic sheathed (TPS) electric cable importedfrom China and sold in the ACT, Qld, NSW, Vic, WA and SA - spe-cifically InfinityTPS2.5mmtwinandearthflatcablemodelFT3025with batchnumbers INFMEL081112, INFH210912and Infinity brandedOlsent cable INFH190311.

ACASecretaryandspokesmanAndrewDavenportsaidtheassocia-tionisgravelyconcernedwiththesituationandthepotentialriskstoelectrical contractors and thepublicnot just inNSW.

TheAustralianCablemakersAssociationwelcomesthedecisionbyNSWFairTradingtorecalltheproductthroughoutNSW,howevertheriskofnon-compliantproductsoldandinstalledinotherstatesisstillevident. The ACA therefore calls upon product safety regulators inotherstatesandterritoriestofollowthedecisionofNSWFairTradingwithregardtothedecisionto issueaproductrecall.Australian livesare at risk fromnon-compliant products.

FormedtorepresenttheinterestsofAustralia’scablemanufactur-ersininteractionswithgovernments,governmentauthorities,supplierand customer associations and other industry bodies, the ACA alsoworkstopromotesafety inthecommunitybyarranging independenttesting of cables. This has resulted in the ACA’s Approved CablesInitiative (ACI) which was established to address the use of unsafe,non-compliant andcounterfeit cable in theAustralianmarketplace.

TheApprovedCablesInitiative(ACI)wasestablishedtoaddresstheuseofunsafe, non-compliant andcounterfeit cable in theAustralianmarketplace.TheACI’smandate isclear: anycable failingtocomplywith the Australian Standards will be reported to the relevant stateor federal authority that has the power to instigate a recall of suchproducts, in the interest of community safety.

Access switchesThe Cisco Catalyst 2960-X series access switches provide Layer 2

and Layer 3 access features. The switches deliver energy efficiency,

while preserving users’ investments through mixed stacking with

existing Catalyst 2960-S and SF switches.

The downlink hibernation mode puts the downlinks to sleep when not in use, and the switch hibernation

mode puts the switch to sleep, consuming less than 10 W.

Other features include: built with true stacking which enables cross-stack QoS and cross-stack high

availability; built for network programmability, application visibility and control; provides PoE and PoE+

support with up to 740 W of power (without an external power source); offers control plane redundancy

across the switches in the stack; provides redundant power supply for power resiliency; uses standards-

based 802.1X for port-based network access control; automatically configures ports based on device type

for rapid deployment with Auto Smartports; helps enable scalable and dynamic role-based access control

with Cisco TrustSec; protects against IPv6 address theft and malicious attacks with IPv6 First Hop Security.

Cisco


CABLE RECALL

NEWPRODUCTS

© s

tock

.xch

ng/p

rofil

e/st

ep85


NEWPRODUCTS

Signal connectorThe HARTING PushPull Signal connectors meet the demands of industry for the reliable transmission

of energy, signals and data in all power ranges, consistently and in a uniform connector system.

The signal has 10 contacts to transmit rated currents of 5 A with conductor wiring gauges of up

to 0.75 mm2. To ensure EMC interference immunity, the contact inserts are fully screened, as they

are with RJ45 data connectors. Screened cables can be connected. The connectors have PushPull

locking for reliable and intuitive connection. Perfect locking is indicated by an acoustic signal (a click).

Hybrid applications can also be created with the product. For example, one part of a connector

face can be used for energy transmission, whereas other contacts are available for communication. The

connectors are obtainable in the PushPull 14 and 4 version series in accordance with IEC 61076-6-107.

Han PushPull version 14 is the preferred connector for decentralised automation in the field for data transmis-

sion and energy supply subject to the guidelines of the Profibus user organisation PNO and the automation

initiative of German automobile manufacturers (AIDA).

HARTING Pty Ltd


Ethernet cableThe CAT6A has been developed for a data rate of

10 GB even during permanent movement. In order

to provide sufficient protection for the 500 MHz

frequency required, the wire pairs and the cable

are equipped with the special igus braid shield

with more than 90% optical cover.

The bending factor of the new CAT6A from igus

is particularly low at only 12.5 x cable diameter,

allowing a reduction in machine design space.

A close-mesh, homogeneous copper wire braiding

protects both the wire pairs twisted with short pitch

lengths and the complete shield from breaking -

even with small bending radii. In order to protect

the shield braid, the new CAT6A sheathing is made

of highly abrasion-proof TPE ex stock. Variants with

PUR and PVC sheathing are also available.

Furthermore, the shielded braid increases the

electromagnetic compatibility of the cable. The

shielded pairs are stranded using an optimised

pitch length in such a way that they can cope with

the high mechanical requirements on the one hand

and meet the electrical requirements concerning

data transmission on the other.

Treotham Automation Pty Ltd


Network emulatorThe GigaNet Systems VirtualNet GE and XG are inline (pass-

thru) 1G/10G ethernet test systems that enable development and

verification engineers to validate proper system response to error

conditions that can occur in deployed systems. VirtualNet Ether-

net emulators modify/impair live bidirectional traffic according to

user-specified parameters and duration as traffic passes through.

With VirtualNet in their test and verification setups, engineers

can introduce bit-errors, delay, bandwidth controls, frame drop,

corrupt frame data, modify specific protocol fields in selected

frames and observe the resulting system response. This testing

enables validation of system performance and robustness under

any desired scenario. Thorough testing for these corner cases

is essential for optimising performance and avoiding costly post-

deployment operational issues.

Unlike other emulators, VirtualNet Emulators are hardware-based

network emulators (using dedicated FPGAs), delivering full line-rate

performance for 1G and 10G ethernet traffic not only at all frame

sizes but also regardless of the impairment settings applied by

the user. With the ability to replicate real-world network conditions

in a 100% controlled manner, users are ensured that no other

variable has been introduced into testing and results are precise

and, most importantly, repeatable.

Other benefits include: an increased system performance with

complete testing of usage and error scenarios; reduced time

to market with faster test case creation and repeatable testing;

automated generation of specific error scenarios; eliminate costly

post-deployment operational and performance issues; faster root-

cause analysis of problems in deployed systems.

TelecomTest Solutions


http://www.warrenandbrown.com.au


NEWPRODUCTS

M63 cable grommetTreotham Automation is expanding the Rutaseal grommet range with an

M63 version. This size will handle larger cable and pipes with a diameter

of 34-45 mm.

The EPDM version is available in grey (RAL7001), light grey (RAL 7035)

and black (RAL 9005) and the Chloroprene version is available in black (RAL

9005). The version is SEMKO approved for IP67.

The grommet is installed from one side only, sealed from the beginning

with a push-out membrane that is removed by installing the cable. It is

self-adjusting to both wall thickness and cable diameter.

The grommet is suitable for outdoor use. Compared to plastics, rubber

is less likely to dry, crack and come loose, and is very

resistant to UV light and ozone.

Since the material is soft it is suitable for use on curved

surfaces as it will adapt to the shape of the surface.

In many cases users do not need IP68 cable glands.

Glands are more time consuming to install, often need

access from both sides during installation and have very

large protrusion. It is often enough with IP67 - cables are

often fixed in the enclosure and to a wall going into the

box - making a grommet a suitable sealing solution.

The Chloroprene version is also DNV approved for marine

and offshore installations.

Treotham Automation Pty Ltd


Compact smart managed switchesThe Factory Line smart managed switches are designed for Profinet and

EtherNet/IP applications and offer up to 16 ports. The switches come in

a 16-port twisted-pair-only version or with 14 twisted pairs and two 100-

Base FX fibre-optic ports.

The fibre-optic model is available in a multimode and singlemode ver-

sion. Due to their extended operating temperature range from -40 to 70°C,

the 16-port devices are particularly suitable for use in rough industrial

environments.

The switches’ compact dimensions make it possible to deploy them

locally in flat housings. The units are optimised for applications that make

use of the Profinet RT and EtherNet/IP protocols. As Profinet IO devices,

they are configured via the controller and offer a multicaster function

optimised for EtherNet/IP. A convenient smart button allows users to se-

lect Profinet or EtherNet/IP mode during installation. The RSTP, MRP and

Fast Ring Detection protocols support the set-up of universal, redundant

network structures, optionally with short switchover times. The replaceable

configuration plug makes it easy to exchange devices.

Phoenix Contact Pty Ltd


Copper cabling systemTE Connectivity’s (TE’s) pre-terminated cassette-based Sigma-

Link copper cabling system has been upgraded to be compat-

ible with the company’s Quick-Fit profile, making it compatible

with TE’s Universal Connectivity Platform (UCP).

As a result, Sigma-Link Quick-Fit housings can now be

‘mixed and matched with other copper or fibre connectivity

solutions in the same rack - and even in the same patch

panel - providing designers and managers with flexibility for

future upgrades and reconfigurations.

The Sigma-Link solution can be deployed in any application

that requires copper twisted-pair cabling and can be used to

connect users to switches, switches to other switches, or for

switch-to-server links. It is designed to improve efficiency in

network infrastructures by saving time and improving design

flexibility. With its pre-terminated copper cable trunks, the

Sigma-Link system enables the IT or data centre manager

to quickly deploy a cabling channel with confidence in the

installed performance.

Each pre-terminated assembly is factory tested, and the links

are available in performance levels from Category 6 through to

Category 7A, with a variety of configuration types and shield-

ing constructions. The Sigma-Link system supports up to 10

GbE transmission and beyond, allowing very high bandwidth

applications and protocols to be supported in the future.

The UCP system is designed to deliver rack efficiency and

supports multiple media deployment. It comprises a range

of components that include one common 19″ patch panel

(either angled or flat), subfloor and overhead panel mounts,

as well as Xtra-U panels for side mounting. All panels can

be used to accommodate both copper and fibre cassettes/

modules, and the units can be installed within or outside the

traditional 19″ envelope.

Available as a Class FA (Category 7A) system, the Sigma-

Link solution has the capability to support future ‘bandwidth-

hungry’ applications and is prepared for the forthcoming Cat.

8 standard, the company says.

TE Connectivity


http://www.mfb.com.au


INNOVATION

FIBRE-OPTICCOMMUNICATIONSRESEARCHERRECOGNISED

DrNicolasFontaine,aresearcheratBellLabs,theresearcharmofAlcatel-Lucent,hasbeenincludedinPopular Sciencemagazine’s Brilliant 10 list of top researchers under theageof35.Hewasselectedbasedonhisworkdeveloping

novel techniques designed to enable fibre-optic networks to meetthe world’s insatiable demand for ultrahigh-speed data servicesand content.

DrFontaine’sresearchfocusesonatechniquecalledSpaceDivisionMultiplexing(SDM),whichwillmakeitpossibletoestablishmultiple,parallel spatial paths in a single strand of optical fibre, multiplyingthe amount of data the fibre can carry. This technique would besimilar to packing multiple superhighways - and all the traffic theycarry - into the space taken up by a single superhighway today.

This research is critical to the development of more dynamic,high-capacity optical transport systems and complements Alcatel-Lucent’s recently announced Shift Plan, an industrial repositioningofthecompanyfromatelecomsgeneralisttoanIPnetworkingandultrabroadbandspecialist.Oneofthekeyresearchanddevelopmentpriorities for the company is around the evolution to advanced IP/optical transport networks that can serve the booming demand forhigh-bandwidthdataservicessuchashigh-definitionvideostreaming,next-generation mobile broadband applications and cloud services.

OneofDrFontaine’smostnotablerecentachievementswasfind-ing a solution tooneof the keychallenges thatmust beovercome

for SDM to become reality. The specific challenge is to find a waytomoveoptical signalsontoandoffnewSDMfibres inawaythatcangrowasneeded tomeet evolvingdemand, has lowsignal lossanddoesnotdistortthevariousparalleldatastreams.Fontainewasable to invent an elegant solution to this problem that meets all ofthe above requirements. Perhaps even more importantly, the solu-tion lends itself to cost-effective manufacturing by using a flexibletechnique whereby optical waveguides are written into miniatureglassblocksusingahigh-power laserbeam-verysimilar inspiritto 3D printing.

Jake Ward, editor-in-chief of Popular Science, said: “Popular Science prides itself on revealing the innovations and ideas thatare laying today’s groundwork for tomorrow’s breakthroughs, andtheBrilliant 10 isoneof themostexcitingwayswedo that.Thiscollectionof10brilliantyoungresearchersisourchancetohonourthemostpromisingwork - and themosthardworkingpeople - inscienceandtechnologytoday.Thisyear’swinnersareparticularlydistinguished.Oneofthemhascrammedincredibleamountsofdataintofibre-opticcables,ineffectsuperchargingtheinternet.Anotherhas developed a way of seeing all the viruses in an ecosystemat once. And another knows how to not just spot other planetsthat might be habitable - she can tell you what the weather islike on them. I’m proud to welcome them all as members of the2013 Brilliant 10.”

e [email protected] w www.ampec.com.au

+61 2 8741 5000

Ampec Technologies specialises in manufacturing of custom design cable assemblies at our local factory in Sydney.

We also have overseas manufacturing partners to cater for high volume production.

Our experienced team is at your service.

Local manufacturing capabilities for cable assembly with a fully equipped factory

Production team trained to IPC/WHMA-A-620A

Fully automatic cut,strip and crimpmachines

High mix low volume and quick turnaround

Cable Assembly @ Ampec

http://ampec.com.au

30 ECD SOLUTIONS - NOV/DEC 2013 www.ECDsolutions.com.au

BEYOND COOLING

Not too long ago, keeping a data centre ‘efficiently’ cool was the ultimate goal for Australian data centre managers. But today, with Australian data centres evolving into hubs for much larger, interconnected networks of cloud-based services - potentially servicing hundreds of thousands of global users around the clock - managing cooling loads in isolation is not enough. Customers are now looking beyond cooling at holistic thermal management solutions.

Cooling accounted for - and still accounts for - more than 35% of a data centre’s electricity bill. In a large data centre with hundreds of multikilowatt racks, shav-ing even 10% off the cooling bill could add up to tens

of thousands of dollars in savings. But we’ve reached a point on the technology curve where data centre managers can no longer keep adding equipment to improve cooling efficiency, mainly due to space limitation and cost of real estate skyrocketing in the past few years. Connected data centres are becoming ‘containerised’ to allow for rapid deployment and decommissioning in response to equally rapid fluctuations in demand; space is as important as cost (both capital investment and operational costs).

At the same time, customers have become more sophisticated. Aside from cooling, they have spread their focus across a wider range of infrastructure priorities, including design efficiency, modularity, control, connectivity and speed. Then there are those that have taken advantage of new technologies and are opting to spread their risk across co-location facilities, centralised data centres, and both public and private cloud services. We propose a number of relatively moderate thermal management strategies to balance these factors and create a framework that delivers improved efficiencies at lower costs regardless of the size or scope of the data centre.

Proper sealingThe first strategy is a case in point. It may seem obvious but thermal gains and losses through floors, walls and ceilings, or the introduction of humidity from outside the critical facility, reduce ef-

ficiency and negatively impact other thermal management strategies.The data centre should at all times be isolated from the general

building and outside environment as much as possible. Keep doors closed and use a vapour seal to isolate the interior atmosphere. A vapour seal is one of the least expensive and most important methods for regulating the data centre’s thermal footprint and is particularly important in maintaining proper humidity levels.

While computer room precision air conditioners (CRACs) control humidity through humidification or dehumidification as required, both consume energy. An effective vapour seal - typically created using a combination of plastic film, vapour-retardant paint, vinyl wall coverings and vinyl floor systems - can reduce the amount of energy expended on humidification or dehumidification.

This is the first step in any plan to increase thermal efficiency. If the room is not properly sealed, all other measures for improv-ing efficiency will be less effective. A data centre assessment can help identify areas where outside air is entering the controlled environment and recommend strategies for proper sealing.

Optimised airflowOnce the room is sealed, the next step is to ensure efficient air movement. The goal is to move the maximum amount of heat away from the equipment while using a minimum amount of energy.

Optimising airflow requires evaluation and optimisation of rack configuration, air-conditioner placement and cable management. Most IT equipment is designed to draw in air through the front and exhaust it out the rear. This allows equipment racks to be arranged in ‘hot aisle’ and ‘cold aisle’ configurations so that rows

THERMAL MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR THE MODERN DATA CENTRE Mark Deguara, Technical Services Senior Manager*


DATA CENTRE EFFICIENCY

of racks face each other, with the front of each opposing row of racks drawing cold air from the same aisle.

This approach is most effective when cold and hot air do not mix. Therefore, perforated floor tiles should be removed from hot aisles and used only in cold aisles. Blanking panels should be used to fill open spaces in racks to prevent hot air from being drawn back through the rack.

When using the hot-aisle/cold-aisle approach, CRAC units should always be placed perpendicular to the hot aisle to reduce air travel and prevent hot air from being pulled down into the cold aisles as it returns to the air conditioner. A return ceiling plenum can also be effective in minimising the mixing of hot and cold air.

The next extension of this is containment, when hot and cold aisles are totally isolated from each other by either containing the cold aisle or the hot aisle. This strategy also gives rise to higher return temperatures to the CRAC units and gives rise to increased efficiency and capacity.

Lastly, the explosion in the number of servers that data centres must support has created cable management challenges in many facilities. If not properly managed, cables can obstruct airflow through perforated floor tiles and prevent air from being exhausted out the rear of the rack.

The underfloor plenum should be checked to determine if cabling or piping is obstructing airflow. Overhead cabling is becoming increasingly popular, which eliminates the potential for obstruc-tion. Deeper racks are available to allow for increased airflow and existing racks can often be equipped with expansion channels to add depth for cables and airflow.

Efficient CRACsBecause of the variable nature of the IT equipment load, and the impact of other thermal management practices, CRAC units typi-cally operate at less than 100% load all of the time.

This creates the opportunity to design systems that operate more efficiently during normal operating conditions, and since operat-ing conditions aren’t always stable, increasing efficiency requires some method of varying capacity based on operating conditions. Technologies such as Digital Scroll compressor technology give rise to this. Digital Scroll compressor technology offers a newer way to precisely match capacity and power consumption to the desired load and can deliver significantly lower energy consumption compared to standard ‘fixed-capacity’ compressors. It allows the compressor to never be cycled off, reducing power consumption linearly as it modulates capacity, resulting in optimum system performance and control.

Supplemental coolingThe solution to rising rack densities and high room diversity is a pumped refrigerant cooling infrastructure that supports cooling modules placed directly above or alongside high-density racks to supplement the air coming up through the floor. This has a num-ber of advantages, including increased cooling system scalability, greater flexibility and improved energy efficiency.

Higher-density applications require fluid-based cooling to ef-fectively remove the high concentrations of heat being generated, and from an efficiency perspective, refrigerant generally performs better than water for high-density cooling.

To the futureA holistic thermal management framework goes beyond cooling to create a significant opportunity for improving efficiency in the modern data centre. In many cases, relatively simple and inexpen-sive changes, such as improving room sealing, moving cables or other objects that obstruct airflow or installing blanking panels, can pay immediate dividends.

In addition, new technologies, such as variable capacity room air conditioners and optimised control systems, should be considered for their impact on efficiency. Finally, supplemental cooling systems provide a response to increased equipment densities that can increase the scalability and efficiency of existing cooling systems.

©iS

tock

pho

to.c

om/b

ackt

asan

*As National Product Manager for Emerson Network Power Aus-tralia, Deguara is responsible for both the precision air condition-ing and power product portfolios for Australia, New Zealand and surrounding regions. Degura has more than 13 years’ experience in the electrical industry and close to 9 years’ experience with Emerson Network Power in the Data Centre Industry. He has a degree in Electrical Engineering from Sydney University, with emphasis on power distribution. Moving into the work force he spent time gaining experience in building and home automa-tion, security systems and electrical accessories, with a major highlight of being involved in the installation of the automatic lighting of the Sydney 2000 Olympic Site. Mark also represents Emerson Network Power on the review of AS2834 - Computer Accommodation.

Emerson Network Power



NEWPRODUCTS

Multifunction enclosureThe RFR-00311 multifunction enclosure is a 1U configurable rackmount

unit for storing and terminating incoming fibre cable.

Designed to accommodate a wide variety of termination types, adapter

configurations as well as different cassettes, the enclosure is also con-

structed to allow maximum flexibility in routing fibres. The heavy-duty

ball bearing slide mechanism incorporated into the design allows easy

access to fibres and the interchangeable front plate facilitates upgrades

as required.

The enclosure has an optional front locking kit and an optional front

cable management to securely route patch cords.

Molex Premise Networks Pty Ltd


Electrical equipment for LNG projects

CAS

E ST

UDY

JTDay,partofMacLeanElectrical,hasbeencontractedtosupplybulkelectricalpackagesforanumberofLNGprojectsonAustralia’seastandwestcoasts.Asapartofthecontract,JTDay is providing a rangeof cables, cableglandsand

electricalbulkmaterials including lighting,cablesupports, junctionboxes,controlstationandotherproductsforindustrialandhazardousareainstallations.Thecompanyisalsoprovidingtechnicalsupport.

“TheordersplacedwithJTDaydemonstratethattherapidlygrowingoilandgasindustryrequiresstrategicAustralian-basedpartnerstomeet their demanding requirements,” saidShawnTaylor, nationalsalesmanager,JTDay.

Forsuchlarge-scaleLNGprojects,equipmentisusuallydeliveredtocontractorsaroundtheworldwhoareinvolvedinmanufacturingofmodulesthatmakeuptheprocessingtrains,whicharethenshippedandassembledonsite.TheJTDaysupplychainandlogisticsgroupdeliversmaterialstodifferentpartsoftheworld.Thisincludestothemodulefabricationyards,gasprocessingskidpackagesandsystemintegrators.ThecompanytakesaconsolidatedapproachtobusinessandleveragesitsstrongpresenceinthekeyengineeringcentressuchasLondonandHouston.“Thelastmilesupplyisalwaysthemostexactingwithdeliveryrequirementsofalowervolumewithagreaterurgencyeithertomeetamilestoneorcompletetheinstallation.”

Inlargeprojects,itiscommontohavedifferentstagesofprojectdesign, early concept through to front-end engineering design,completedbydifferentengineeringcontractorsbased indifferentlocationsaroundtheglobe.Thisprocesstypicallytakesbetweentwotofouryears.“Themaindifficultywasmanagingthelargenumberof

independentmanufacturerswhoseproductsmakeuptheelectricalandcabletake-offs,”saidTaylor.

A largenumberof small and largecontractorsare involved inprojectsofthisscale.“Ourobjectivestoensureallofthesecond-andthird-tiercontractorgroupsunderstandourcapabilitiesandthesupportandexpertisewecanoffer.Oftenwhensmallercontractinggroupsareinvolvedtheymaynotknowwheretosourceprojectspecifiedandapprovedproducts-wecanassistaswehaveanestablishedsupplychainspecificfortheproject,”saidTaylor.

JT Day Pty Ltd


http://www.anritsu.com/en-au


Implementing the first high-voltage grid with eco-sustainable cableCA

SE

STU

DY

PrysmianGrouphastestedthefirstelectricalsystemthatincludeshigh-voltageP-Lasercable.

P-Laseristhefirsthigh-performance,eco-sustainablecable for electrical grids. Made with recyclable raw

materials,P-Laser helps to reduce the environmental impact ofelectricalgridswhileincreasingtheirefficiencyandtransmissioncapacity. High-voltage P-Laser maintains the same propertiesof efficiency, compatibility with the existing grid and lowerenvironmentalimpact.Infact,thecablecanoperateattemperaturesabovethetypical90°Cof traditionalXLPEtechnology,while thematerialsusedfortheprotectivesheath,themetalconductorandtheoutercablescreensarefullyrecyclable.

The 150 kV, 5 km link realised in Lacchiarella, near Milan(Italy),ownedbyTernaSpA,representsafundamentalstepinthereorganisationofthehigh-voltagetransmissiongridinthesouth-westareaofMilan,whichwillallowconnectionstobeoptimisedunderamedium-termprogram.PryCamhasbeeninstalledatthetwo extremes of the approximately half-kilometre-long P-Lasersection.Thisnewinstrument,developedbyPrysmianGroup,allowsanypulsesignalsgeneratedbypartialdischargestobemonitoredandaccuratelymeasured,therebypreventingfailuresandtherelatedcosts,bymonitoringthedifferentpartsoftheelectricalgridwithouthavingtoswitchitoff.

“Thedevelopmentofthehigh-voltageP-LasercablefollowstheintroductionontheItalianandinternationalmarket,startedsomeyearsago,ofmedium-voltageP-Laser.Thankstothis,PrysmianGroupismoreandmoreengagedinpartneringwiththeutilitiesin upgrading anddeveloping their electrical gridswhile seekingto reduce the environmental impact of such grids,” explainsFabio Romeo, executive vice president of Prysmian Group’sEnergyBusiness.

“Incomingyearswewillseearadicalchangeinthewaythattheglobalelectricalsystemoperates,offeringmanybenefitstoallusers in termsof efficiency, quality and safety of supply.High-performancecablesandsmartmonitoringinstrumentsareakeypartofthismodernisationprocess,inordertoensurebetterriskprevention,gridloadoptimisationandlowenvironmentalimpact.”

After receiving IMQ certification in Italy and being approvedandadoptedbyItalianutilities,themedium-voltageP-Lasercablehas also been introduced in other European countries like TheNetherlandsandSpain,whereproductionormarketinghasalreadystartedandisdeliveringpromisingresults.

Prysmian Cables & Systems Australia Pty Ltd


NEWPRODUCTS

Handheld ethernet packet captureAlbedo Net.Hunter is a handheld stream-to-disk appliance capable of monitoring live

traffic to capture selected TCP/IP flows at wire speed. Net.Hunter is comprehensive and

small, does not have IP or MAC addresses, and works at full bit rate without generating

any delay, jitter or loss, therefore it is totally invisible.

The appliance is a compact and independent device that includes screen, keyboard

and batteries to operate everywhere. It captures and records, by hardware, at full wire

speed in full duplex. It is suitable for those who need to monitor and capture critical data,

protocols and VoIP conversations, everything transparently without disturbing live traffic. The appliance satisfies the need of packet

capture that is not well served by probes, testers and analysers unable to capture, tap and save in real time.

Features include: pass-through and mirror; hardware filter and capture; no delay, zero packet loss; NTP synchronisation; PCAP

format support; VNC remote control; handheld tap; 4.5 h on batteries, 2.6 lb; 60 or 120 GB hard disk; IPv4 and IPv6.

Benefits include: compact and autonomous; multicast captures for IPTV; record at full wirespeed; scalable to dozens of units;

AC power fault tolerant; invisible and undetectable; risk-less traffic control; stream-to-disk LAN and Wi-Fi.




NEWPRODUCTS

VM-centric disaster recovery softwareNutanix has announced the latest version of its software, Nutanix OS 3.0, and a hardware line, the NX-3000 series. The

products assist enterprises build next-generation, software-defined data centres. In addition to VM-level disaster recovery

and adaptive post-process compression, Nutanix OS 3.0 also delivers dynamic cluster expansion, rolling software upgrades

and support for a second hypervisor, KVM.

The NX-3000 series highly configurable platform allows compute-heavy and storage-heavy nodes to coexist in a single

heterogeneous cluster. The platform will include hardware models that are variable in the capacity and number of PCIe-

SSDs, SATA SSDs, and SATA HDDs per server node. The nodes can have varying numbers of CPU cores per socket

and variable memory capacities. This allows for independent scaling of compute and storage in a single system that is

optimised for every use case and can scale to address evolving business requirements.

The NX-3000 is based on Intel’s Sandy Bridge architecture and delivers VM density in a 2U form factor.

Nutanix OS 3.0 includes native storage-optimised disaster recovery that enables multiway, master-master replication

claimed not to be available in traditional storage arrays. Administrators can configure disaster recovery policies that specify

protection domains and consistency groups in primary sites, which can then be replicated to any combination of second-

ary sites to ensure maximum business resiliency and application performance. Furthermore, any Nutanix cluster can serve

as both a primary and secondary site simultaneously for different protection domains, providing flexibility and choice.

Nutanix OS 3.0 also delivers best-in-class runbook (failover and failback) automation that is hypervisor-agnostic, which

means the native disaster recovery capabilities are available and consistent regardless of the underlying virtualisation

platform or management tools.

Matrium Technologies Pty Ltd


http://www.jtday.com.au


Submarine data link between Southeast Asia and the US to be upgradedCA

SE

STU

DY

Alcatel-Lucent and Asia America Gateway, the cablesystemownedbyaconsortiumofoperators,havesigneda deal to upgrade the Asia America Gateway (AAG)submarine cable system, covering the route from the

PhilippinestotheUnitedStates.The 20,000 km-long AAG system will add multiterabit data

capacitytocopewiththerapidexpansionofdatatrafficincountriesalong its route, while rapidly increasing its capability to meetcloudservicerequirements,leveragingAlcatel-Lucent’sadvancedcoherenttechnology.

SpanningalmosthalfthelengthoftheEquator,AAGconnectsMalaysiatotheUSviaSingapore,Thailand,Brunei,Vietnam,HongKong,thePhilippines,Guam,HawaiiandtheUSwestcoast.Theadvanced coherent technology to be used for this upgrade willdeliveracapabilitytoupgradethesystemtoover8Tbpsandwillcontribute to further strengthen communications reliability overtheAsia-USroute.

When it was launched in 2009, the Asia-America GatewayrepresentedabreakthroughindeliveringthefirstterabitsubmarinecablenetworkbetweenSEAsiaandtheUS,beingdesignedforanultimatecapacityof1.92Tbps.

“ThisnewinvestmentinadditionalcapacityontheAAGsystemwillfurtherhelptoaddressthepersistentdemandforanywhere,anytimebroadbandaccess.Alcatel-Lucent’stechnologyoffersanadaptablesolution tocontinue implementingourstagedupgradestrategytomeetsignificantbandwidthincrementsovertime,whileprotectingourinvestmentsinthesubseaplant,”saidVitoPavone,chairmanoftheAAGManagementCommittee.

Philippe Dumont, president of Alcatel-Lucent SubmarineNetworks,said:“WearepleasedtohelpAAGoperatorsallowquickerserviceaccelerationtomettheexpectationsoftheircustomersforhigh-qualitybroadbandapplications,storageandcomputing.Alcatel-

Lucent’suniquesolutiondeliversaneasymeansofscalinguptomultiterabitcapacity,offeringevolutionforsubmarinelineterminalequipmentwhilecombiningtechnologicalandeconomicbenefits.”

TheAlcatel-Lucentsolutionisbasedonthe1620LightManagersubmarinelineterminalequipmentusingcoherenttechnologyat40G(gigabits-per-second),expandableto100G,toprovideefficientuseoftheavailableopticalspectrum.Theterminaloffersoptimalscalabilityandflexibilitythankstoitsuseofthecompany'sadvancedcoherenttechnology,whichalsoincorporatesthelatestSoftDecisionForwardErrorCorrection(SDFEC)technology.Additionally,Alcatel-Lucent’stechnology offers multi-vendor adaptability. With more than 100upgradescompletedovertheyears,Alcatel-Lucent’sfield-provensubmarinetechnologyoffercarriers,serviceproviders,multi-mediaandcontentprovidersaseamlesspathtoexpandtheirnetworksinacost-effectivewaythankstotheoptimisationofdryplantandwetplanttoextractmaximumperformance.

© s

tock

.xch

ng/p

rofil

e/si

ck31

NEWPRODUCTS

Compact power sourceEmerson Network Power has launched the Liebert NX (10-40kVA), a

compact and fully integrated uninterruptible power supply (UPS) that

is suitable for small to medium businesses.

The UPS features highly efficient voltage and frequency independent

(VFI) technology, which is said to provide installation and operating

costs savings. The device is said to achieved over 94% efficiency in

double conversion mode and up to 98% in eco mode, ensuring ef-

fective load protection and minimising source impacts.

With a rated output power factor of 0.9, the device is claimed to

provide 11% more active power than traditional 10-40 kVA UPSs. The

UPS’s combination of performance features and good internal battery

autonomy makes it suitable for providing power protection for a wide

range of applications from IT, medical facilities and laboratories, of-

fice facilities and retailers. The internal battery component allows for

customised configuration options for greater flexibility, while offering

long back-up capability of up to an hour at 10 kVA.

The unit is parallel ready and can be connected with up to four

units, one of which is redundant. A single unit can be upgraded to

parallel operation via easy-to-modify software settings and the addi-

tion of extra modules, allowing the system to be customised for the

required configuration.

The device features a multilingual LCD user interface allowing for

close control and monitoring of system status and performance. The

UPS also offers voltage-free contact ports, USB interface and internal

Intellislot for SNMP or Modbus communication. These communication

capabilities make the UPS compatible with building management

systems and can be monitored by using Liebert Multilink and Nform.

The device’s architecture is designed to make installation and service

simple with its easily removable power assembly, minimising downtime

for any service requirements.

Emerson Network PowerContact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/U982


Andrew Chew and Meredith Riley

NEWPRODUCTS

High-speed copper connectorsTE Connectivity’s Deutsch D-MAX high-speed copper connec-

tors offer robust reliability and high signal integrity to support

current and future high-speed protocols in the most demanding

aerospace and military applications. The connectors support

10G ethernet and beyond, and are compatible with high-speed

categories 5e, 6, 6a and 7, USB and IEEE 1394 cables.

Designed for harsh environments as a high-performance

alternative to RJ45 connectors, they are suitable for the require-

ments of military and aerospace OEMs for high-speed, rugged

and compact interconnects.

The shielding arrangement of the D-MAX connector helps

protect each pair through the connector to provide good imped-

ance matching (designed to maintain 100 Ω impedance) and

help eliminate crosstalk. The optimised design has little effect

on the signal when the differential pairs transverse through the

connector. The design and close impedance matching of the

D-MAX connector give designers more margin in such critical

features as near- and far-end crosstalk and return loss. Better

margins can mean better signal integrity.

In addition, the connector uses standard AS39029 crimp con-

tacts. The termination and assembly is fast and straightforward,

including the ability to field terminate and repair in as little as five

minutes. The D-MAX connector supports a variety of circular and

rectangular form factors to allow maximum flexibility in applying

high-speed protocols, and is available with aluminium or com-

posite shells with a variety of finishes. The robust 38999 series

III shell is available for single- or quad-channel configurations.

TE ConnectivityContact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/U665

Network monitoring solutionThe ProfiTAP XX-32Gportable is a solution designed for con-

solidating multiple 10GbE and 1GbE span and/or 1GbE inline

sources for monitoring and analysis tools. The solution is oper-

ated by desktop power supplies and offers a second redundant

power supply. The solution includes XX-Manager, a GUI-driven

management system controlling aggregation, routing and filtering.

The XX-32Gportable holds four fixed 1GbE and two 10GbE

ports. Other features include: rigid 1U metal enclosure, black oven-

painted desktop AC international power supply; voltage 100-240 V/

50-60 Hz; low power consumption: <40 W; management ports

RS232; cooling by two temperature-controlled serviceable fan

units; operating: 0 to 50°C/storage: -20 to 90°C; humidity: 10

to 90%, none condensing; weight and size: main unit 41 (h) x

194 (w) x 254 (d) mm; weight: 1.5 kg.



http://www.daanet.com.au/netsoftware


MARKET ANALYSIS

CONSTRUCTIONTOFALL

Thevalueoftotalconstructionactivity isexpectedto fall in the next few years, a new report shows.However, the NBN rollout will mean plenty ofconstructionworkinthetelecommunicationssector.

ThelatestAustralian IndustryGroup (AiGroup)/AustralianConstructors Association ‘Construction Outlook’ surveyshowsthat,aftersolidgrowthof10.6%in2012-13,thetotalvalueofengineeringandcommercialconstructionworkis

expectedtorisebyjust2%pain2013-14andby1%pain2014-15.Growth in the value of engineering construction work is set

tosignificantlydrop from 12.9%pa in2012-13 to 1.9%pa in2013-14 before plateauing in 2014-15, the report shows. This reflectsweakerconditionsacrossarangeofinfrastructurecategoriesandresource-based heavy industrial sectors.

However,telecommunicationsworkisforecasttoremainrobustin line with the NBN rollout and related investment. Levels ofconstructionactivityarealsoexpectedtoholdupreasonablywellin theoil andgassector (despiteaslowergrowthoutlook),whilecivil projects (such as terminals and ports) are expected to stillgeneratesolidworkin2013-14beforeweakeningthefollowingyear.

Prospectsforcommercialconstructionremainsubdued,consist-ent with the soft and patchy nature of project activity within thesector. The survey points to growth in commercial work of 1.0%pa in 2013-14 followed by a mild pick-up in 2014-15 with growthof 4.4% pa anticipated.

“TheAiGroup/AustralianConstructorsAssociation‘ConstructionOutlook Report’ highlights a central question facing the Austral-

ian economy: what will drive economic growth and increasedliving standards as mining investment eases?” said Innes Willox,Ai Group Chief Executive.

“Whilesomeareasofengineeringandcommercialconstruction-notablytelecommunicationsworkandconstructionrelatedtooilandgasprojects-areexpectedtoexpand,thesebrightspotsarenot anticipated to compensate for the reduction in mining workover the next couple of years.

“With the flat outlook for other key parts of the economy onthe back of weak non-mining investment in recent years, thedampening impacts of a strong domestic currency and a legacyof an extended period of low productivity growth, there is nohiding from the extent of the challenges to be faced over thenext couple of years.”

“The projected drop in the value of work highlights the needfor public and private sector clients to engage with the industryto identifymore effective strategies to support greater reliabilityof theconstructionpipeline,”saidLindsayLeCompte,AustralianConstructors Association Executive Director.

“Issues such as the financing of projects, the cost of con-struction - including the cost of tendering - and how projectsare incorporated within an overall sustainability framework, areimportant discussions that need to occur.”

TELECOMSREMAINSROBUST

©iS

tock

pho

to.c

om/D

evon

yu

http://www.powerbox.com.au

The EFOY Pro fuel cell generator

is a battery charger that pro-

vides clean and reliable off-grid

power wherever and whenever you

need it. The EFOY unit is a constant

current charger connected directly to

a battery that supplies and monitors

charge levels. Depending on demand,

the fuel cell switches on automatically,

recharges the battery and switches

to standby — without any need of

maintenance or user intervention. This

process extends the life of batteries

by eliminating deep discharging.

EFOY Pro fuel cells may be hybri-

dised with existing solar power sys-

tems to ensure 100% reliability and

autonomy for applications in remote

sites. When Solar is unable to deliver

enough power, the fuel cell generator

automatically switches on and com-

pensates for the shortfall in energy.

Powerbox, a leading provider of power supplies throughout Australia and New Zealand, has now released the EFOY Pro fuel cell generators for demanding applications.

Applications: SCADA, Telecommu-

nications, Security & Surveillance,

Environmental Data Collection, Traffic

Management, On Board Power Supply

for Vehicles.

EFOY Pro will produce electricity in

any weather, climate or season. The

EFOY Pro fuel cells offer maintenance-

free energy supply for several months

on end. The in-built battery manage-

ment systems ensure increased life of

battery banks, as deep-discharging

is avoided. EFOY Pro fuel cells are

quiet, producing only small quanti-

ties of CO2, and guarantee long

autonomy — without any need for

maintenance.

http://www.powerbox.com.au


enLighten retrofits NSW Land and Housing propertyCA

SE

STU

DY

enLighten Australia was awardedthecontracttoretrofitLEDlightinginNSWLandandHousingCorporation’spropertyinEastlakes.

Thecorporationownsandmanagesthe state’s portfolio of 144,000social housing dwellings in NSW.Approximately70%of theelectricityused by NSW Land and HousingCorporation residential propertiesis for commonarea lighting,whichamounts to over 21,000 tonnes ofgreenhousegasemissionseveryyear.ThevastmajorityofNSWLandandHousingCorporationpropertieshaveold,inefficientT8fluorescentlightinginstalledandmuchofthis lighting isoperating24hoursperday.

Thecorporationselectedpropertiesforlightingenergy-efficiencyupgradestobeundertakeninthe2011/12financialyearthathadhighelectricityconsumptionandlonglightingoperatinghours.Thecorporationreceivedagrossrebateof$15,787inclGSTfromthesaleoftheEnergySavingsCertificatesgeneratedfromtheprojectundertheNSWEnergySavingsScheme.

enLighten’seight-chipChamaeleonemergencyandnon-emergencylightswereinstalledinfirestairs,lobbiesandcorridorswhichrequired24-hour lighting.Thesteelskirt accessorywasappliedacrossallinstallations,makingalllightsvandalresistant.

The retrofit resulted in a reductionof 79 lights installed (122Chamaeleonsreplacing201T8s),producingthesamelightingoutputlevels.ThemicrowavemotionsensorsoftheChamaeleonlight,whichoperateonareducedlightingoutputinstandbymodeandfulllightin

occupancy mode, enable electricitysavingswithoutturningoffthelightscompletely. This was an importantfactorinmakingthelightingfeelsaferforresidents.

Average da i l y e l ec t r i c i t yconsumption data supplied byNSWLand and Housing Corporationindicated a 62% reduction in totalelectricityusageacrossthesite.Datalogging conducted by enLighten ona circuit with mixed lighting typesindicatedanenergyreductionof81%.

One year post installation, theannualelectricitysavingsofthelightingupgradeproject, supportedbybillingdata, hasbeen78,432kWhor88%.This figurewashigher thanoriginalestimatesof81%anddeliveredcostsavingsof$14,253(inclGST).

The followinggraphsoutline thesustainedandconsistent reduction inelectricityconsumptionpostinstallation and the 15% increase in power factor.Power factorimprovementsindicateanimprovementintheefficiencyofthelightingcircuit,resultingintosubstantialfuturereductionsinAusgrid’skVAenergydemandcharge.

SincetheNov2011Eastlakesinstallation,enlightenAustraliahaswonafurtherfiveroundsofcommercialtenderstosupplyandinstalltheChamaeleonLEDlightincommonarealightingupgradesacross15propertiesintheSydneymetropolitanarea.

enLighten Australia Pty Ltd


NEWPRODUCTS

Lighting control systemThe An-10 wireless system from CP Electronics enables installation of a fully featured lighting

control system with minimal disruption.

The system has been specifically created to allow users to embrace the advantages of wire-

less technology, while at the same time offering all of the features and functionality demanded by

modern lighting control systems.

The devices will maintain illuminance (daylight linking or harvesting), saving energy where natural

light is available. A seamless, wireless installation process reduces time and cost while negating

the need for hardwiring to link components, making it suitable for retrofits and new buildings. The

ability to position output units, switches and detectors exactly where required makes it easier to meet building regulations.

The system is particularly suitable for historic and listed buildings where disturbing the building fabric is difficult or impossible.

System functionality is achieved by programming, not hard wiring, making it easy to design the operation of the user’s

lighting system. Incorporating additional devices is also seamless. Users simply install the extra device, program it into

the system and it’s ready for use. The ability to adapt lighting to any adhoc requests is particularly useful for open-plan

environments. Programming handsets are available to manage customisation of the lighting control system in house.




CRITICALFACTORSFORACHIEVINGSUCCESSIN

The project management and execution of a PV systemaresignificantlyinfluencedbytheinitialplanningphaseand avariety of factors must be considered to ensurethe system meets the budget when it’s installed.

Inorderforasolarprojecttobefinanciallyviable,itiscrucialthatthebudgetiscorrectlyallocatedtowardstheinstallationandongoingserviceofthesystemtoallowthemaximumyieldtobeproduced.Afewofthecrucialdecisionsthatwilldeterminetheefficiency and sustainability of a solar power system are: thequality of the equipment, monitoring and installation; the loca-tion and size of the investment; and the Intelligent positioningofinvertersandpanelstoefficientlymanagethewiringprocess.

Workingwithaprojectspecialist,likeaninvertermanufacturer,and using the right planning tools to determine the size of thesystem or the yield calculations in advance will assist systemoperatorsinselectingtherightsystemcomponentsandproduct-specific characteristics to optimise the design of the system.

Quality from the startA solar installation, on average, lasts for about 30-40 yearsand this has been made possible with advances in technologyas well as the increasingly sophisticated planning and analyt-ics tools which have improved the life span of these systems.

However,thelongevityofasolarsystemdependsonavarietyof factors and external influences such as climatic conditions,the quality and choice of the components used, the ongoingmonitoringandthefrequencyofmaintenance.Thesefactorsarecrucial to the life of the plant and must be planned for beforeconstruction commences.

Proper consultation with manufacturers and developing aprofessional project plan will not only benefit the plant owner,but the system provider as well. If risks are identified early,unnecessaryclaimscanbeavoidedandserviceandmaintenancecanbecompletedquickly, and incidents - thatcould result inaloss of production of the plant - can be avoided.

It is also useful to keep in the mind the quality of supportfromthemanufacturers.TheAustralianenvironmentisuniqueandexperience,alongwithlocalknowledge,isincrediblyimportanttothesuccessof theplanningphase.Factoring in thecapabilitiesand the quality of support you will receive from manufacturersshould also be a key consideration in the planning phase.

Monitoring and communicationAs we mentioned above, the longevity and efficiency of solarsystems has come a long way in recent years and in terms ofoffering value and additional benefits for customers, the trend

When it comes to a photovoltaic (PV) system, thoughtful planning isthefoundationofasuccessfulproject.Experiencehasshownthat80%of successful solar systems depend on the decisions that are madeinthefirst20%oftheprojectplanningphase.Thisarticlediscussescritical factors for creating efficient and long-life PV systems.

SOLARPVINDUSTRY

Gavin Merchant, Key Account Manager, SolarMax


SOLAR INSTALLATIONS

for systems to include a self-monitoring capability is one way that manufacturers have helped customers get the most out of their PV system.

When it comes to planning for the monitoring aspect of a PV system, it is again important to consult with the manufacturer and identify the right product. It is also important to plan for a system which communicates with the customer’s monitoring system in a way that makes sense for their specific needs.

Choosing the right locationThe correct choice of location for a project is an important deci-sion, not only for the solar system, but also for each individual component. In the case of the inverter, the location should be shielded from direct exposure to weather conditions as far as possible to mitigate against the risks inherent in exposure to the harsh Australian climate.

When planning for the optimum position of an inverter, it is important to factor in the proximity to other objects as well. We have found that adequate clearance from solid objects should be observed to prevent negative thermal impact.

After considering the quality and the location of the solar system, we must focus on one of the most underrated aspects of the planning phase - the design and wiring of the system.

The correct cable for the respective requirementsGaining efficiency and receiving sustainable outputs from a solar PV system requires power to be converted and transferred prop-erly. This is where the wiring of a system plays an important role. For installers there are a range of factors which should be considered when installing a PV system:

• The arrangement of an inverter and its positioning within the solar system is crucial for both the design of the DC and the AC wiring. Because AC voltage in a PV system is lower than the DC voltage, it is advisable to keep the AC lines from systems as short as possible, to minimise the loss due to voltage drops on the AC side.

• In addition to the length of the cable, installers must also consider the type of cabling. For PV systems, multi-core cables should be used to minimise the impact of inductivity on the AC cabling.

• By using single line cabling, all wires within the same circuit should be installed and laid in the same cable trunk or together in the tube.

• If large terminals are placed close together, it can lead in to a short circuit between numerous conductors. As always, it is advisable to use only the terminals specified by the manufacturer. Installers should use large cross-sections to protect against mechanical stress on the terminals.

• Finally, care should be taken with the use of aluminium wires by using the appropriate tools such as clamps or bimetallic clamping sleeves. The data on the cross-sections of the ter-minal are based on copper cables and information about these cross-sections should be regarded when aluminium cables are used.

ConclusionIn addition to geographic and climatic factors, the optimal sizing and placement of all system components affects the PV system significantly in terms of its longevity and profitability. Therefore, a careful analysis of the site and an early collaboration with component suppliers is recommended to detect risks early on and counteract them. Extensive planning will enable more accurate plant sizing and yield calculations, which will contribute to the efficiency of the system right from the beginning of the project.

It is recommended that consultations take place with project managers, installers and component manufacturers so they can provide the correct advice and planning tools to educate clients across all planning stages. This will ensure the installation of a solar system is optimised as it sets the foundation for its efficient operations and provide high yields in the long term. Taking these added precautions benefits the customer and all parties involved in building the system.

Sputnik Engineering Australia & NZ PTY LTD


©iS

tock

pho

to.c

om/v

isd

ia

WHEN IT COMES TO PLANNING FOR THE MONITORING

ASPECT OF A PV SYSTEM, IT IS AGAIN IMPORTANT TO

CONSULT WITH THE MANUFACTURER AND IDENTIFY THE

RIGHT PRODUCT.


NEWPRODUCTS

Lighting control systemT h e D - M a t e l i g h t i n g c o n t r o l s y s t e m f r o m

CP Electronics is easy to install and configure, and provides

all the benefits of a scene-setting lighting control solution.

The system offers advanced cost-saving functionality

such as presence detection and automatic adjustment

for daylight.

D-Mate is suitable for a wide range of applications

from offices and meeting areas to restaurants and hotel

rooms. Features and benefits include: four independently

dimmable lighting circuits for scene setting; presence and

absence detection; maintained illuminance saves energy

where natural light is available; no specialist commissioning

skills required; quick installation time saves further costs;

modular system allows easy expansion; cost-effective

networking via two-wire data bus.



Solar power monitoring system

Magellan Power Solar Gate is designed to help those

with large solar installations keep the energy they

generate, for their own use. The product monitors

the power demand of a local load and commands

grid inverters to produce power equal to the local

demand, in order to avoid injection of solar power

into the grid.

The Solar Gate can also facilitate utilisation of the

unused available power by switching on auxiliary

(non-essential) loads. The device is small enough

to fit within a switchboard and is compatible with

popular inverter brands.

Features include: accuracy of 2% for smooth power

control; plug-and-play capability allows the product

to ascertain the number of connected inverters and

their ratings to ensure equal power distribution;

output signal to switch on non-essential fixed loads;

RS485 connection to inverters; and remote enable/

disable (ramp up/ramp down) function.

Magellan Powertronics Pty Ltd


Energy storage solutionBosch Power Tec’s BPT-S 5 Hybrid intelligent energy

management and storage solution is suitable for the

domestic photovoltaic systems market.

The product stores the electricity produced during the

day in order to use it in the mornings and evenings. It

is based on high-performance, lithium-ion batteries with

a storage capacity of 4.4 kWh, which can be expanded

as required in modular steps of 2.2 up to a maximum

of 13.2 kWh.

The company’s storage solution helps users to be more

independent from the public power grid. As a result of

this intelligent energy management system, the proportion

of self-generated solar power in a four-person household

can be increased from 30 to up to 75% or more - without

having to change consumption behaviour. Due to fast high

charging and discharging, the device ensures supply of the

household electricity from the internal photovoltaic system

even during the day. If photovoltaic production suddenly

falls, then these energy requirements are also covered by

electricity from the storage system.

The string inverters are equipped with RFID technology

for fast and error-free commissioning. The company’s e.World communica-

tion system simplifies the planning, installation and monitoring of photovoltaic

systems via the e.key, a credit-card-sized storage card. e.World also offers the

installer and operator numerous access opportunities through the innovative

networking of solar inverters with the peripheral devices. The e.World internet

portal is available to installers to provide the range of component and perfor-

mance data relating to the system at all times. It also provides opportunities

to communicate with the inverter via a smart phone using the e.World app.

Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd



SOLAR ENERGY

Aprocesscombiningsomecomparativelycheapmaterialsandthesameantifreezethatkeepsanautomobileradiatorfromfreezingincoldweathermaybethekeytomakingsolar cells that cost less and avoid toxic compounds,

while further expanding the use of solar energy.Andwhenperfected,thisapproachmightalsocookupthesolar

cells in a microwave oven similar to the one in most kitchens.Engineers at Oregon State University have determined that

ethylene glycol, commonly used in antifreeze products, can be alow-costsolventthat functionswell ina ‘continuousflow’reactor- an approach to making thin-film solar cells that is easily scaledup for mass production at industrial levels.

The research, published in Material Letters, also concludedthis approach will work with CZTS, or copper zinc tin sulfide, acompound of significant interest for solar cells due to its excel-lentopticalpropertiesandthe fact thesematerialsarecheapandenvironmentally benign.

“Theglobaluseofsolarenergymaybeheldback if themate-rials we use to produce solar cells are too expensive or requirethe use of toxic chemicals in production,” said Greg Herman, anassociate professor in the OSU School of Chemical, Biologicaland Environmental Engineering. “We need technologies that useabundant,inexpensivematerials,preferablyonesthatcanbeminedin the US. This process offers that.”

By contrast, many solar cells today are made with CIGS, orcopper indium gallium diselenide. Indium is comparatively rareandcostly,andmostlyproduced inChina.Lastyear,thepricesofindiumandgalliumusedinCIGSsolarcellswereabout275timeshigher than the zinc used in CZTS cells.

ThetechnologybeingdevelopedatOSUusesethyleneglycolinmesofluidicreactorsthatcanofferprecisecontroloftemperature,reactiontimeandmasstransporttoyieldbettercrystallinequality

and high uniformity of thenanoparticles that comprisethe solar cell - all factorswhichimprovequalitycontroland performance.

This approach is alsofaster-manycompaniesstilluse ‘batch mode’ synthesisto produce CIGS nanopar-ticles, a process that canultimately take up to a fullday, compared toabouthalfan hour with a continuousflow reactor. The additionalspeed of such reactors willfurther reduce final costs.

“Forlarge-scaleindustrialproduction,allof these fac-tors-costofmaterials,speed,qualitycontrol-cantranslateintomoney,”Hermansaid.“Theapproachwe’reusingshouldprovidehigh-quality solar cells at a lower cost.”

The performance of CZTS cells right now is lower than thatof CIGS, researchers say, but with further research on the useof dopants and additional optimisation it should be possible tocreate solar cell efficiency that is comparable.

This project is a result of work through the Center for Sus-tainable Materials Chemistry, a collaborative effort of OSU andfive other academic institutions, supported by the National Sci-ence Foundation. Funding was provided by Sharp Laboratoriesof America. The goal is to develop materials and products thatare safe, affordable and avoid the use of toxic chemicals orexpensive compounds.

COOKINGUPSOLARCELLSINAMICROWAVEOVEN

This cross-section image shows nanoparticles of copper zinc tin sul-phide laid down to create a solar cell.

Images courtesy of Oregon State University


NEWPRODUCTS

LED alternative for existing PLC downlightsThe Vibe LED Place Replacement Downlight is said to be a more efficient LED option that replaces standard 2 x 18 W and

2 x 26 W PLC downlights. The replacement downlight has a clean, flat finish, suitable for quality

commercial buildings and premium residential living areas.

The architecturally designed fitting is dimmable on most domestic or commercial lighting

systems, provided there is an appropriate driver. The LED replacement downlight is available

in two wattages, with a 4000K (cool white) colour temperature: a 19 W, which replaces a

2 x 18 W PLC, and a 24 W, which replaces a 2 x 26 W PLC.

Their low power consumption, energy efficiency and long life of 50,000 h

assist in reducing not only electricity costs, but also maintenance

costs. They have a high CRI of 75 and a beam angle of 100°,

making them suitable for applications such as: hotels, motels,

corridors, offices, receptions, restaurants, retail shops, supermarkets,

shopping centres, bars, toilets and any other areas where general

lighting is required.

ANL Lighting


Guestroom management systemPhilips Dynalite has added another ele-

ment to its Guest Room Management

System. GRMSPLUS focuses on energy

management, automation and occupancy

comfort and is targeted at high-end hotel

room applications.

The DDMC-GRMSPLUS system offers

out-of-the-box functionality designed for the

hospitality segment, and is claimed to offer

cost savings through the minimisation of

hardware and commissioning requirements,

as well as through optimised operational

expenses.

The system can also be used for applications such as control of boardrooms,

classrooms or residential apartments.

The system is designed to integrate with a hotel’s building management system

(BMS) and make use of network user interfaces. This facilitates remote monitor-

ing and control of the lighting and automation systems within the hotel room.

Based around the architecture of the DDMC802 Multipurpose Controller,

the system has been redesigned for hotel room applications. The result is the

DDMC-GRMSPLUS Controller, which incorporates five dimming channels and an

additional three relay channels for non-dimmed lighting groups. It also includes

a power relay channel for isolating power outlets to eliminate standby current

consumption, two-directional motor controls for blinds and a DMX output to

support colour-changing lights.

The unit can be preconfigured in the factory for a project’s particular require-

ments, which means installation is a simple plug-and-play operation with no

need for on-site commissioning. An accessible dipswitch package allows the

installer to allocate the room number so that it can be identified by the BMS.

The solution uses Antumbra panels as its default user interface.

Philips Dynalite


AC modulesET Solar Group has announced the immedi-

ate availability of ET AC modules powered by

SolarBridge microinverters in Australia. ET Solar

has collaborated with Australian Micro Inverters

(AMI) to promote the modules in the country.

Based on the adaptability of 208 V/240 V

autosensing, the AC modules are suitable for

both residential and commercial PV applications.

The AC modules with built-in microinverters

are said to offer better energy harvest in shaded

rooftop conditions, since each module operates

independently of others. Furthermore, installation

lead time for these modules is meaningfully

shorter as the inverters are already installed

on the modules during module production.

With high module efficiencies and high-power

SolarBridge Pantheon II microinverters, solar

systems with integrated ET AC modules are

said to yield more energy, incur lower design

and installation costs, and feature innovative

web-based monitoring of individual module

performance. The modules have a 25-year,

end-to-end performance warranty.

Australian Micro Inverters Pty Ltd



Monash University installs 135 kW solar systemCA

SE

STU

DY

MonashUniversityhasimproveditsoverallsustainabilitythrough a mixture of energy-efficiency initiatives,behaviouralchangeandrenewableenergyinstallations.

InJuly2013,theuniversityengagedEnviroGrouptoinstalla135kWsolarsystemusingYingliSolar’shigh-efficiency250WmulticrystallinepanelsontheirPeninsulaCampusLibrary.

Yingli secured the project through its installation partnerEnviroGroup. “It was a competitive tender process and MonashUniversity selected EnviroGroup and Yingli because of theirability to offer a solutionwhich could guarantee a high-yieldingannualoutcome;andongoinglong-termsupport,”saidYingliSolarCommercialDirectorDamanCole.Agreatdealofplanningwentintothesystemdesignandinstallation,whichfocusedparticularlyonthelayoutofthePVsystemtominimiseshadingandmaximiseproduction throughout the whole year, as well as timing theinstallationwithinuniversityholidays.

Yingli’smulticrystallinepanelswerechosenbecauseof theirprovenabilitytoproduceongoinghigh-energyyieldsundertheharshconditionsoftheAustralianclimate,includingathightemperatures.Thesystemisexpectedtoproduceanominalannualenergyyieldof170MWh,which isenoughtopowerapproximately30homesforayear.

“One of the key challenges of this project was to install thesystemduring the university’s holiday period,which meant thatEnviroGrouphadtocompletetheproject in30days. Inordertofulfiltheprojectintime,EnviroGrouphadtoplanandmanagetheprocessverycarefullyand,asaresult,concludedtheprojectaheadofscheduleinmid-July,”saidCole.

The grid augmentation and protectionwere an extraordinarychallenge,duetotheutilitiesrequirementtohavethreelevelsofprotectionbetweenthesystemandthegrid.TheinstallationissaidtobeoneofVictoria’slargestPVinstallationsandthelargestPVsystemconnectedtotheUnitedEnergydistributionnetwork(asatAugust2013).Theprojecttookthreeweeksofinstallationinmid-June.Thelongestaspectofthisinstallationwasthegridapplicationprocesswhichtookoverthemonths.

“MonashUniversityisstrivingtoleadthecommunitytowardsamoresustainableenvironmentbyachievinghigh-levelenvironmentalobjectivesandtargets.EnviroGroupareproudtohaveinstalledastate-of-the-artsolarsystemthatwillplayamajorroleinreducingtheuniversity’scarbonemissionsandreducingelectricitybills.WerecommendedYingli’smulticrystallinepanelsbecauseoftheirhigh-qualitymanufacturingandtheirlong-termperformanceunderharshAustralianconditions,”saidEnviroGroupChiefExecutiveCameron

Munro.TheprojectwasmanagedandinstalledbyEnviroGroupanditsin-houseteamofengineers,electriciansandinstallers.

Commentingonthelessonslearntfromtheproject,Colesaid,“The effectiveness of investing time into the development andpreparationofadetailedprojectmanagementplan,communicatingtheinstallationprocessbeforeprojectcommencementandprovidingdailyupdatestoallrelatedpartieswaskeyinmakingthisprocesssmooth for all teams concerned and ultimately the customer’ssatisfaction.”

Yingli Green Energy Australia Pty Ltd



NEWPRODUCTS

Surge protection for PV systemsDEHN + SOHNE offers lightning protection components and surge

protection devices for photovoltaic systems.

Starting with support in the planning phase, followed by consultation

with regard to the selection of devices, components and systems, up to

the final inspection and documentation, the company is a reliable partner.

The Lightning Protection Guide provides information on the installation

of lightning protection systems in accordance with standards, while the

company’s technical support offers expert advice.

Systems are offered for one-family houses up to PV power plants. The

modular systems allow for lightning and surge protection measures for

all kinds of PV systems - starting with external lightning protection with

an air-termination system, down-conductor system and earth-termination

system, along with equipotential bonding and up to lightning and surge

protection.

Even when devices overload, the arrester control of the DEHNguard PV

SCP ensures a safe state of operation without a risk of fire in the system.

The combined disconnection and short-circuiting device is able to carry

the short-circuit current until corrective maintenance of the PV system.

The Type 1 combined l ightning current and surge arrester

DEHNlimit PV 1000 protects the generator and inverter against

surges in case of direct l ightning strikes. Potential short-cir-

cui t currents up to 100 A at a photovoltaic vol tage up to

1000 VDC will be interrupted within a few split seconds.

The DEHNcon-Ha module, in the field of an isolated air-termination

system, is usable wherever proximities have to be avoided. The HVI

conductor light is used not only controls proximities, but it is also individu-

ally adjustable to the architectural design by selecting the corresponding

colour of the paint coating.

DEHN + SOHNE GmbH + Co KG


TRIAC dimmer for LED lightingThe RECOM REDIM series dimmers operate from 7 W.

The dimmers and the RECOM RACT20 LED driver series

are matched and provide a smooth dimming curve and

deep dimming down to zero. The dimmers are designed

for installation in mounting boxes which meet DIN 49073.

The connection is made safely and easily with screw

terminals that ensure a secure hold for flexible or rigid

conductors (2 x 2.5 mm2). The basic light level can be

adjusted individually and easily for a customised lighting

solution. To be compatible with all common switches, an

adapter is included as a standard.

The devices can be used for LED luminaires as well as

for energy-saving lamps, low-voltage halogen lamps and

even incandescent bulbs.

RECOM Asia Pte Ltd


Solar storage systemMost residential solar installations produce solar power

during the day when it is not used and then feed it into the

utility grid - only to buy it back later on at a higher price.

DC Solar Storage (DSS) from Magellan Power is available

in 3 kW/2.4 kWh or 5 kWh. It is installed on the output of

the solar panels and therefore does not interfere with the

installed inverter.

The DSS uses a bidirectional DC to DC converter to

charge batteries from solar panels when the energy is

plentiful and allows that energy to be utilised at peak

demand times by the owner or sold to the electricity grid.

Employing a lithium-ion phosphate battery, the DSS offers

2000 charge/discharge cycles at 100% DoD at 25°C and

an efficiency of 94%. It operates in temperatures between

0 and 55°C.

It offers 3 kW of continuous power and has a DC input

of 200-450 VDC and DC output of 200-450 VDC. It com-

municates via Modbus/RS232.

Magellan Powertronics Pty Ltd


http://www.flir.com

http://www.flir.com


Active chilled beams greatly improve energy efficiencyCA

SE

STU

DY

needforartificiallightandcreatesamorecomfortableenvironmentfortenants.

Charter Hall has an experienced property management teaminvolved in themanagementof 130StirlingStreet.Byworking inacollaborativewaywith themainenergyconsultants,HFMAssetManagement,theair-conditioningcontractorsandthebuildingfacilitymanagers, the teamhavebeenable toachieve thehighNABERSratingbutalsomaintainacomfortableenvironmentforthetenants.ThecontinuousmonitoringofallmetersandmonthlyreviewsassistinmaintainingthehighNABERSrating.

Thiscontinuousmonitoringofthebuilding’soperationmeansanyanomaliesorspikesinenergyusearepickedupinthemonthlyreportingsystemandaddressedassoonaspossible.Thepropertymanagementteamalsointroducedstartandstoptimecapabilitiesforallsystemstoensureplantandequipmentisonlyoperatingwhenneededandputinplaceapremiummaintenanceregimetokeeptheair-conditioningsystemsinoptimumcondition.

Charter Hall, along with its consultants, is also investigatingautomatic lock-outperiodsforthecoolingandheatingsystems,sothatwhenacertaintemperatureisreached(loworhigh),thereisatimelagbeforetheoppositesystemkicksin-thispreventstheheatingandcoolingsystemsfrom‘fightingitout’.CharterHall’sHeadofAssetManagement-OfficeandIndustrial,CraigNewman,said:“Itisthroughafocused,proactiveandcollaborativeapproachinmanaging130StirlingStreetthatwehavebeenabletooutperformourstatedsustainabilitybenchmarksforthispropertyyearonyear.Thisisagreatachievementforourtenants,thebuildingandtheentireteamwhohaveworkedandcontinuetoworkonthebuilding.”

GrahamPostmafromSavills,theleasingagentontheprojectfromitsinception,supportedNewman’scomments,stating:“Fromatenant’sperspective,everydollarsavedinenergychargesgoesdirectlytothetenants’bottom-lineprofitability, and if thesesavingsareachievedwhileensuringmaximumtenantcomfortandproductivitythebenefitsareevengreater.”

Theenergyefficiency-andthereforecostbenefits-ofmovingtoanewCBDfringeproject include largeefficientfloorplates, loweroccupancy costs and environmentally sustainable design (ESD)standardsrequiredbygovernmentandcorporatetenants.

NABERSContact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V428

OneofthefirstbuildingsinPerthtoattaina5.5starratingunder theNationalAustralianBuiltEnvironmentRatingSystem(NABERS)withoutusingGreenPowercanbefoundat130StirlingStreet.

WhenCharterHallGroupdevelopedthebuilding,itcommittedtoa4.5starNABERSrating.AWesternAustralianCommitmentAgreementisacontractbetweentheNABERSRegionalAdministrator,thePublicUtilitiesOfficeandacommercialofficebuildingproponentwhocommitstodesign,buildandcommissionthepremisestoachievea4starorhigherNABERSEnergyrating.Thisallowsthebuildingproponenttopromotethedesiredrating.ThecontracttypicallyspansanumberofyearsandremainsineffectuntilthebuildinghasreceiveditsbenchmarkNABERSEnergyrating,afterthefirst 12monthsofoperation.Theagreement encouragesdesignconsultants, projectmanagers andbuildingownerstofocusonachievingtheagreedperformancetargetthroughallphasesofanewdevelopmentorrefurbishment.

The seven-level building incorporates active chilled beamairconditioning, efficient lighting anda central atriumwhichgreatlyreduceenergyconsumptionwhilealsoprovidingacomfortableworkingenvironment.

“Thebiggest energy savings are due to the chilled beamair-conditioningsystem.Chilledbeamsare t-shapedsteelbeamsthathavechilledorheatedwaterpipedthroughthem.Thebeams(whichareeffectivelyheatexchangercoils)cooltheairaroundthem,thecool,denseairthenfallstothefloor,warmairrises,iscooledandaconstantcirculationofchilledairflowiscreated.Muchlikeradiantheat,thisconvectionmethod ismorecomfortable thantraditional fan-drivenair-conditioningsystemsas,evenwherefansareused,thevelocitiesarelowersothereisn’tthebreezethatcangeneratemanycomplaintsfromstaffsittingclosesttotheair-conditioningoutlets.Thetemperatureisalsomoreconsistentthroughoutthefloorplan.Mostimportantlythechilledbeamsystemrequiresmuchlessenergytooperatethanothermore-traditionalair-conditioningsystems.”

Theenergyefficienciesstartfromtheoutsidein.Thedevelopersandarchitectsbuiltcomprehensiveshadingstructurestokeepdirectsunlightoffthewindowsformostoftheday.Thebuildingisthereforenotsubjectedtothesolar loadsthatcansendenergyconsumptionsoaring.

Insidetheseven-levelbuildingacentralatriumactsasalightwell,bringingnaturallightrightintothefourofficefloors.Thisreducesthe


NEWPRODUCTS

Portable power packsVerbatim’s portable Power Packs enable consumers to use portable electron-

ics for longer without worrying about running out of battery life.

The AA Power Pack transforms any four alkaline or rechargeable AA bat-

teries into extra power for iPhones, iPods, Micro-USB devices, e-readers or

wireless Bluetooth headsets.

The Ultra-Slim Power Pack is a credit-card sized power pack that is

lightweight and fits into a purse or pocket. The Ultra-Slim has a 1200 mAh

lithium polymer battery.

The pocket-seized Portable Power Pack charger provides extra talk and

play time. It features a 2200 mAh lithium-ion battery and Micro-USB charg-

ing cable.

With a 3500 mAh lithium-ion battery, the Portable Power Pack supports

charging a wide range of devices. The rubberised lightweight pack has a

push-on/auto-off button and an LED power status indicator to gauge how

much charge is available.

A full charge with the Dual USB Power Pack can add up to 250% iPhone

charge, or similar, for other smartphones with an average 1400 mAh battery.

It has two USB charging ports for charging multiple devices.

With an 8400 mAh lithium polymer battery, the Dual USB Power Pack can

charge a range of devices. A full charge can add up to 75% iPad charge

or charge an iPhone up to 4.5 times, or similar for other smartphones with

an average 1400 mAh battery. It also has a push-on/auto-off button and

LED power status indicator.

The 10,000 mAh Dual USB Power Pack has a dedicated iPad port and

an additional USB port for simultaneous charging.

Verbatim Australia Pty Ltd


Hazardous area plugs and socketsMarechal’s DXN6 Decontactors are designed for use in hazardous areas.

The plugs and sockets are certified in accordance with IEC Ex standards

and have a rated current of 63 A (with wiring according to standard) and

a maximum voltage of 750 V.

The decontactors have 24 keying positions and an

IP rating of IP66/IP67 with the lid closed or with the

plug connected.

Options include two auxiliary contacts, provision

for multiple padlocks and a 180° opening and self-

returning lid. The high-performance poly casing

provides mechanical shock resistance to IK08.

Marechal


Low-voltage MCCsABB’s SafeStart range of low voltage motor control cen-

tres (MCCs) improves safety, equipment reliability and

ease of maintenance for operators of demountable-type

MCCs in the mining and minerals industry.

The SafeStart MCC modules are designed to improve

safety for operators and electrical maintenance workers

with improved protection against arc faults and interlock-

ing mechanisms. This allows the main switch handle to

be padlocked in the OFF position with the door open

or closed, and also prevents insertion or withdrawal of

the demountable module when the main switch is in

the ON position.

ABB’s demountable SafeStart low-voltage MCCs have

been designed to operate in harsh conditions such as

operation ambient temperatures of between -5 and 50°C,

and dusty environments which demand protection rat-

ings of up to IP54. Temperature rise tests and internal

arcing fault tests have been conducted under the worst

conditions of IP54 without extrapolation or assumptions.

To address the key needs of operators and owners of

local mine sites, the design of the SafeStart MCC has

been engineered and developed in Australia based on

direct feedback received from a series of market surveys

conducted by ABB in Australia.

Maintenance has also been simplified thanks to the

modular nature of the equipment. All demountable

modules come in standard sizes and are provided with

facilities to allow for quick interchange or replacement

of modules within the framework. Main busbars are of

a maintenance-free construction and distribution bars

are fully phase-segregated, dramatically reducing the

probability of an arc flash.

ABB Australia Pty Ltd


Prysmian has 2.5mm & 4mm 2C&E Flat Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LS0H) cable available in stock right now!

Prysmian’s 2C&E Flat Low Smoke Zero Halogen cable is:

• AustralianMade• InStock(500mpacks)• PVCFree-GreenStarcompliantreceivemaximumpoints• LeadFree• EasytoStrip• ComplianttolevelRHE-1forreduced

hazardouseffectstoAS/NZS4507

The most effective method of cabling to ensure maximum personnel safety and the security of valuable assets

Applications

Industry Infrastructure Healthcare Residential

2.5mm & 4mm 2C&E Flat Low Smoke Zero Halogen (LS0H) Cable

CALL US NOW ON 1300 300 304

THISTLE In STock now!

NEWS

FLASH

Changes to AS/NZS 3000


NEWPRODUCTS

DC circuit surge protectionSince safety lighting systems and emergency power supply systems are

DC systems, it is vital to use arresters, eg, of the DEHNsecure product

family which are specifically designed for DC applications. The internal

structure of the DEHNsecure spark gap is suitable for application in DC

circuits. The device concept allows it to prevent DC mains follow currents

as soon as they occur.

With the device series, a consistent lightning protection zones concept,

including the cross-boundary DC lines, can be implemented. Besides safety

lighting and emergency power supply systems, arresters are also used in

DC systems for direct supply of DC drives, control circuits and any kind

of battery-operated power supply system.

The modular devices of the product family are coordinated lightning

current arresters with a functional design. Energy coordination with the type 2 surge arresters of the DEHNguard family is possible without

additional cable lengths or decoupling coils.

The modular arresters combine high performance and user friendliness in a single device. Their electrical parameters were rated for the most

stringent requirements in a lightning and surge protection system.

Shock or vibration during transport or operation or enormous mechanical impulse loads resulting from discharges do not affect the module lock-

ing system, which ensures safe fixation both for the base part and protection module. Nevertheless, the protection modules can be easily replaced

without tools by simply pressing the module release button. In order to avoid incorrect insertion by the installer or user when replacing the modules,

both the base part and protection module are mechanically coded. The arresters incorporate double terminals, allowing series connection of the

SPDs in a space- and cost-saving way for nominal currents up to 125 A. The operating state/fault indication immediately provides information on

the availability of the device even if no operating current is present. Apart from the standard red and green indicator, DEHNsecure FM devices

have an additional remote signalling output.



CAT6A modules and patch panelsCAT6A modules and patch panels from Warren & Brown Technologies offer performance of Class EA links. The system is part of the structured

cabling solution offered by the company and is supported by the 25-year Integrated Communications Solution (ICS) warranty. By using a standard

plastic bezel, AMJ modules can also be mounted to HPM or Clipsal wall outlets.

Features and benefits include: Cat.6A certified by independent testing laboratory under ISO/IEC 11801:2010; 10 Gigabit-Ethernet compliant

(IEEE 802.3an); fully automated production of Cat.6A RJ45 core; universally, worldwide available installation dimension for mounting cut-outs:

19.3 x 14.7 mm; optical monitored inspection of the RJ45 contact heights; suitable for power over ethernet; over bending protection: ≥750 mating

cycles with RJ45/RJ11/RJ12 plugs; part numbers TGJ00029K0036 and TGJ00029A0077 modules and TGH02025A0220 patch panel to suit.

Warren & Brown Technologies


Thermal imaging cameraThe VarioCAMhr from Infratec is a high-resolution camera which provides good thermal imaging performance.

It has a modular device concept which permits the camera equipment to be custom-designed according to

the user’s needs. Thermographic high-quality images are displayed in an adjustable, high-resolution colour

viewfinder which simultaneously provides an overview of the current measuring conditions.

The camera uses replaceable, fast rechargeable Li-Ion batteries and has low power consumption. Available

with various detector formats and temperature measuring ranges, it also features high-quality infrared lenses,

tools of the thermography software suite IRBIS 3 and a wide range of accessories.

Fields of application include: preventive maintenance on electrical equipment

and mechanical components; building thermography; inspection of facilities;

inspection of power plants; control cabinet inspection; and condition monitoring.

SciTech Pty Ltd


http://www.sereply.com


Whenitcomestoprotectingyourself,yourworkersandallthoseyou’reresponsiblefor,secondbestjustwon’tdo.

Legally, any person conducting a business or anundertakingisprimarilyresponsibleforthatsafetyunder

s. 274 of the Work, Health and Safety Act (WHS Act). A duty ofcare is owed to allworkers andothers in theworkplace– so faras ’reasonablypracticable’–thattheyaren’texposedunnecessar-ily to electrical risks arising from that business or undertaking.

Regulation 147 of the WHS Act states: ’A person conducting abusiness or undertaking must manage risks to health and safetyassociatedwithelectricalrisksattheworkplace.’Whatthismeansinpractice isthatthe ’dutyholder’ is inchargeofand/orrespon-sible for eliminating those risks, or where complete eradicationof the dangers is not practically feasible, then those risks mustbe minimised as far as is sensible. A duty holder must identifyreasonably foreseeable hazards that could give rise to the risks;maintain the implemented control measure so that it remains ef-fective; review,and ifnecessary revise, all riskcontrolmeasuresso as to maintain, so far as is reasonably practicable, a workenvironment that is without risks to health and safety.

Of course, besides the legal issues surrounding health andsafety in the workplace there are other practical issues, such ascost and efficiency, to bear in mind.

Obviously you cannot put a price on the safety of your work-force, but a responsible employer must be aware of the costsincurred inmakingtheworkplaceasafeenvironment.Theymustalso remain aware of the potential greater costs in failing toadhere to these regulations – litigation resulting from failure toimplementasuccessfulhealthandsafetypolicycanbedevastat-ing to businesses, their owners and the employees who rely onthem to make a living.

Safe Work Australia advocates the importance of a trainedprofessional sticking to the rules when it comes to health andsafety regulations via their published codes of practice.

Electricalrisksintheworkplacecanbeidentifiedwiththermalimagingcameras.Theyensuretheimplementedcontrolmeasuresare running smoothly and help to review risk control measures,saysScottCole,AssistantManageratHire IntelligenceAustralia.

“Thermal imagingcamerasareessentialforanyoneconcernedwithelectrical equipmentmaintenance, particularly those lookingto identify potential problems before they become too costly torepair.Ifyouareresponsibleforequipmentmaintenancenoothertechnologydeliverstheapplicationflexibilityorbusinessbenefitsofthermalimagingcameras.TheWHSActinitselfisn’ttheonlypieceof legal documentation in regards to electrical health and safety.The Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZ 3760: ‘In-service

ELIMINATINGELECTRICALRISKSThe skilled worker’s job in electrical safety certification is made easier with the use ofrapidlyimprovingandevolvingtechnologies.Thermalimagingisonesuchtechnology.Thermalimagingcamerasarebeginningto leadthewayasacost-effectiveandpracticalsolution foreliminating many electrical risks. Read on to find out more.

INTHEWORKPLACE


THERMAL IMAGING

safetyinspectionandtestingofelectricalequipment’recommendsin-service inspection and testing to ensure the safety of thoseusing electrical equipment in the workplace. Occupational healthandsafetylegislationalsodecreesthatmanyworkplaceelectricalappliancesandfittingsbetestedasfrequentlyaseverysixmonths.

“In addition, many insurance companies are now requestingevidenceofaThermalImagingReportwhenrenewingpolicies,asthey see preventative maintenance as an extra step in reducingthe instances of electrical fires,” said Scott.

“Thermalimagingtechnologyscansandvisualisesthetempera-ture distribution of the entire surface of machinery and electri-cal equipment quickly and accurately. It detects extremely smalltemperaturedifferences,identifyingheatspikesfromenergyloss,missing or defective insulation, leaks or moisture, and producesan image with the tiniest details to help resolve problems fast.This can be carried out at a safe distance from the hazardousarea, away from harm, and without any intrusive building work,such as pulling up floorboards or knocking through walls, todisrupt business or home life.”

“The latest thermal imaging cameras, available for hire, aremore robust, dust and water-resistant, sharper, with focusedandclear images,haveatemperaturemeasurementrangeof-20to +350°C with a manual focus, and allow recorded audio to be

attached to each picture taken for future reference. The qualityof the imagehasalso improveddramatically,asthecameranowcombines a digital photo with an infrared (IR) image, taking themystery out of IR image analysis.”

Beingabletoanalyseandreporttheinformationfoundisvital,and the progress of this technology has developed in line withthecameras.Products range fromasimplesoftwarethatallowsuserstoorganiseandanalyseradiometric imagesonthecameraand quickly present them in a report, with intuitive and easy-to-use online tools, to systems that incorporate features, suchas fusion and trending, and provide greater flexibility in reportdesign and layout. For a professional thermographer, dedicatedsoftware allows advanced analysis of building structures andincludes customised building report templates for applications,such as safety reports and even energy cost analysis.

We’re talking about a piece of technology that, by variousdesigns, is intrinsically suited to exactly the kind of job thatarises from having to adhere to the WHS Act and similar andsurrounding legal codes of practice.

“Whetherit isa lightweighthandheldinfraredcamerathatfitseasily in a tool belt or a full-featured, high-definition infraredcamera,thetechnology isavailabletosuitevery levelofsophis-tication, analysis and reporting need.

“As the user becomes more adept with the technology, theyfindnewuses for it.Theopportunity toupgradecameras in linewithevolvingexperience,knowledgeanddemand isanessentialelement for this constantly improving technology, as is the needto upgrade supporting equipment. For example, the inclusion ofwireless technology in thermal imaging camera design enablesdata from a WiFi enabled moisture metre or clamp metre to betransferred to thecorresponding thermal image.This technologyalso allows thermal imaging cameras to ‘talk’ to mobile devices,such as an iPhone or iPad, allowing images to be shared withcolleagues so that swift decisions can be made to prevent lossof production and minimise risk.

Often thermal imaging equipment is priced from upwards ofa few thousand dollars and represents a large outlay for manybusinesses, both big and small.

Renting thermal imaging cameras and other test equipmentintheshorttomediumtermcouldbea moresuitable,andeco-nomicallyviable,wayfor businessestostayup-to-datewiththelatest insafetyregulationswithoutcostinganarmandaleg-orlosing one in an ‘on the job’ accident.

With constant advances in technology and the steep cost ofpurchasing thermal imaging equipment, it is often advantageousforbusinessestohirehigh-endtestandmeasurementtoolsfroma reliable rental provider. There is no initial outlay for items, asthe cost is spread over the hire period and all rental equipmentis fully tax deductible. Also, storing, maintaining and disposingof items is the responsibility of the rental provider, and a reli-able supplier will offer technical support as and when you needit, said Scott.

“The most significant benefit thermal imaging cameras canhave on a business when used for equipment maintenance andtroubleshooting is the impact it hason returnon investment.Byhiringtheequipment,youreducetheinitialoutlaycostsdramati-cally and ensure you always operate using the most up-to-dateand effective technology.”

Hire Intelligence


©iS

tock

pho

to.c

om/D

evon

yu


NEWPRODUCTS

High breaking capacity circuit breakersSchneider Electric has released

an extended breaking capacity for

its complete range of Compact

NSX moulded case circuit break-

ers (MCCB), suitable for low-volt-

age applications spanning 100 to

630 A. Engineered to provide good

protection and service continuity for

high-demand power applications, the

range now offers breaking capacity of

100 kA at 690 V and 200 kA at 440 V.

The circuit breakers are suitable

for the marine, oil and gas, and

other natural resource extraction and

processing industries that require

circuit breakers that will reliably

protect against extreme short-circuit

faults in systems running paralleled

power sources or large numbers of

motor loads. The range provides the

extended breaking capacity required

to enhance the level of safety in

low-voltage systems running at up

to 400/480 V, as well as the higher-

efficiency 690 V power systems that

are becoming increasingly common.

With an ability to withstand extreme

fault conditions and remain opera-

tional after three faults, combined with

remote control reclosing functionality

that can help restore a circuit quickly,

the range is a reliable and cost-

effective alternative to high-power

fuses over the long term. The circuit

breakers also provide the discrimi-

nation and coordination necessary

to maximise continuity by isolating

faults and avoiding system-wide out-

ages. The products also continue to

offer embedded intelligence features

such as energy metering, alarms,

diagnosis and communication to

help maximise energy efficiency and

network reliability.

The MCCB can be supplied as part

of a complete, fully integrated 690 V

power distribution solution that also

includes Masterpact air circuit break-

ers (ACB) and Okken switchboards.

Schneider Electric Aust Pty Limited (Clipsal)


Surge protection appPhoenix Contact offers a surge protection app for smartphones (available

at Google Play and in the App Store). The app represents an easy-to-use

tool for electricians that allows them to convince customers of the need

to protect their equipment against surges.

Together with the customer, the electrician can use the app to fit a

single-family home with surge protection. An animated diagram shows

where and how well the house is

protected. In addition, videos such

as the Simple Show or a montage

of lab tests performed at Phoenix

Contact demonstrate why surge

protection is so important.

All selected products are stored in

lists of protected devices or equip-

ment. These lists can be sent to the

customer as part of the consultation

or used to prepare a quote. The

app has many uses for homeowners

and building contractors as well. If

someone is looking to retrofit a home

with surge protection, the required

products can be found in the app

and the list sent to an electrical

supplies dealer.

Phoenix Contact Pty Ltd


Infrared thermometerThe 568 Ex intrinsically safe infrared ther-

mometer is suitable for use in potentially

explosive environments like oil and gas,

petroleum, chemical processing and

pharmaceuticals where adherence to safety

procedures is imperative.

The thermometer meets intrinsically safe certi-

fications from all major global agencies for Class I, Division 1

and 2, or Zone 1 and 2 hazardous environments. It measures

temperatures from -40 to 800°C with a 50:1 distance-to-spot ratio

for accurate measurement from a distance and can capture up to

99 points of data.

The rugged 568 Ex’s emissivity can be adjusted via a built-in table

of common materials or manually from 0.10 to 1.00 in 0.01 increments.

Advanced features are easily accessed with soft keys and graphical

display.

The IR thermometer comes complete with a K-type thermocouple bead

probe, conductive hard case for carrying into hazardous areas, user’s

manual and safety instruction sheet.

Fluke Australia Pty Ltd


http://www.satec-global.com.au


An earlier BICSI column in ECD Solutions advised of changing AustraliaCommunicationsandMediaAuthority(ACMA)regulationsrequiringcablerstohold ‘competencies’ in specialist cablingactivitiessuchasstructuredcabling,opticalfibreandcoaxcabling.Thesenewrequirementscomeintoeffect July 2014, so, many cablers around Australia have been lookingintohowtoobtainthesecompetenciesthroughACMA-approvedtraining.

But the training doesn’t only have to be about compliance. In theprocess,youcanalsoobtainfurtherindustryqualificationsandgenerousgovernment funding.

While training for thesecompetencies isavailableona ‘unit’basis tobecompliant to thenewregulations, it canalsobeobtained inabundlewithothereducationunits,resultinginaCertificateIIIinTelecommunica-tionsqualification.Andwhenundertakenasatraineeship,thegovernmentprovides funding for both employers and employees upon completion ofthecourse.

But why is the government paying cablers to go back to school? ‘TelecommunicationsTechnician’isanationallyunder-resourcedoccupa-tionand listedontheAustralianGovernment’sNationalSkillsNeedsList(www.australianapprenticeships.gov.au/national-skills-needs-list). Underthe Australian Apprenticeships Incentives Program, an eligible traineeundertaking aCertificate III inTelecommunications course andobtainingthequalificationthatleadstobecomingaTelecommunicationsTechniciancanreceivea$5500‘ToolsForYourTrade’payment(applicablenationally).

At the same time, the employer will receive a $4000 ‘Support forAdultAustralianApprentices’paymentforeachtrainee(notapplicable inWA, ACT or Tasmania), another $4000 for each trainee over 25 yearsof age (applicable nationally), plus a further $1000 ‘Rural and RegionalSkillsShortage’incentiveifthecompanyissituatedinregionalAustralia.

Thefunding isavailable forbothnewandexistingworkers.Also,ca-blerswhoalreadyhaveOpenRegistrationandonlyneedtocompletethespecialtycablingcompetenciescanstillreceivethefunding, iftheyenrolinthetraineeship.Thosewithextensivecablingexperiencecanapplyforrecognitionforpriorlearning,reducingthelengthoftheircoursecontent.

Conditions to receive funding are: must be Australian resident; mustenrol in traineeship (not apprenticeship); must complete Certificate IIIcourse;mustbeemployedbyacompanyforanominal21hoursormoreperweek;fundingnotavailabletoself-employedindividuals;fundingonlyavailable once - can’t get funding if you’ve already received funding foranother course; can’t get funding if you have higher qualifications, eg,Certificate IV, diplomaordegree;must beworking in relevant industry.

Over the past year, BICSI has received hundreds of phone calls andemails from cablers asking for guidance on training for compliance, soithascollaboratedwithanationwidespecialist telecommunications reg-istered trainingorganisation (RTO) toproducetheBICSICertificate III inTelecommunicationscourse.

The RTO has trained staff to assist cablers and guide them throughthe enrolment process and complete the traineeship documentation tosecure thegovernment financial incentives.

Overthepastyear,hundredsofcablershavequalifiedforandreceivedthe tax-exempt fundingandmanymoreare sure todo the same.

ContactBICSI tofindoutmoreabout thecourseandthegovernmentfunding. www.bicsi.com.au

Financialincentivestoobtaincablingqualifications

InsertsTE Connectivity has launched new inserts for the AMP CO

Plus system. The system features two distinct components: the

inner cable terminating connector and the application insert.

Unlike conventional cabling solutions that deploy a one-

piece fixture, the system is said to allow a high degree of

flexibility and futureproofing through flexible configuration

choice.

To support current and future demands, TE Connectivity

has expanded its product portfolio for the AMP CO system

with the addition of a 3-port CATV, fast ethernet and telephone

insert. The CATV port allows a service of up to 862 MHz.

This can be used to watch video pictures or TV channels

on one cable. The maximum transfer length is 90 m, and

depending on the cable type, an amplifier may be required.

The insert is suitable for use in hotels, hospitals, universi-

ties or residential environments where mixed applications

occur at the same outlet.

TE Connectivity


Digital earth test clampAvailable to rent, the handheld

Megger DET20C ground resistance

clamp can be used for general earth

testing of multigrounded systems

(buildings, pylons and RF transmit-

ter sites) as well as to measure

leakage current. Test results can

be stored in the onboard memory

and downloaded to a computer.

Fixed-interval measurement logging

is also possible.

The unit induces the required test

current without the need for additional

earth stakes. There is no need to

disconnect/isolate sections under test

and measurements are possible on

a live system.

Features include: measures ground

resistance from 25 mΩ to 1550 Ω; measures ground

leakage current from 0.2 mA to 35 A; automatic self-

calibration; USB download facility with Megger Download

Manager Software.

TechRentals



NEWPRODUCTS

UPSThe APC Smart-UPS is designed to protect critical data and equipment

from power problems by supplying clean and reliable network-grade

power. The UPS offers high efficiency at low-, medium- and high-load

levels making them suitable for multicore or virtualised servers that

have varying load consumption.

Available in a variety of form factors (tower, rack mount, rack/tower

convertible) there is a model for every application. Rack-mounted

UPS’ are suitable for powering blade or density-optimised servers

in a distributed power-protection environment as the primary or

redundant protection.

The UPS features a 16-segment LED display, extended-range

automatic voltage regulation (AVR) and pure sine wave output on

battery. Additional manageability options are available through the

Smart-Slot interface, which is an internal slot for the installation of

optional accessory cards. The extended-run Smart-UPS XL has the

capability to add external battery packs to scale run time from min-

utes to hours typically needed for converged voice and data network

power protection. The entry-level Smart-UPS SC is an economical

choice for small and medium businesses looking to protect small

switches, networking devices and point-of-sale (POS) equipment.

Pacific DataCom


Lightning current/surge arresterThe DEHNvenCI combined lightning current and surge arrester with inte-

grated backup fuse combines maximum system protection and compact

dimensions in a single device.The arrester allows space-saving integration

of a combined lightning current and surge arrester and is said to meet

the protection requirements of modern switchgear installations.

The arrester has a discharge capacity up to 25 kA (10/350) and combines

system protection and compact dimensions in a single device. The features

of the DEHNventil family were combined with a lightning-current-carrying

arrester backup fuse in an enclosure with a width of only two modules.

The arrester not only allows space-saving integration of a combined

lightning current and surge arrester, but

also meets the protection requirements in

modern switchgear installations. The inte-

grated arrester backup fuse is dimensioned

to ensure maximum discharge capacity

and optimal system protection.

The need to select and install an arrester

backup fuse is eliminated, ensuring short

connecting cable lengths as required in

IEC 60364-5-53. The arrester is said to

allow protection of terminal equipment if

the distance between it and the consum-

ers is ≤5 m. The ability to carry lightning

impulse currents without destruction and

simultaneously reduce the energy to an

acceptable level for terminal equipment ensures the availability of the

switchgear installation in case of a lightning strike. This considerably

reduces the risk of high loss failures.

Even in case of short-circuit currents as high as 50 kA rms, DEHNvenCI

can be used in industrial systems without restrictions.



http://www.aemc.com


Harbour City Ferries uses thermal imaging to improve safety

CAS

E ST

UDY

HarbourCityFerrieshassignificantly improvedsafetyofitsstaff,vesselsandotherusersofSydneyHarbourwithinstallationofFLIRM320Lthermalimagingcamerasacrossitsentirefleet.

HarbourCityFerriesoperatesapproximately 175,000services,transportingnearly15millionpeople1.3millionkilometresacrossthebusyandscenicallybeautifulSydneyHarbourandtheParramattaRivereachyear.Withall thisactivityandHarbourCityFerries’strategicfocusonsafety,itwasdecidedtoinstallthermalimagingcamerasonboardtheentirefleetof28vessels,sixofwhicharedouble-enders,so34FLIRM320Lcameraswerepurchasedintotal.

TheSydneyHarbourBridgecastsaradarshadowunderneathitthatlimitstheutilityofradarinthearea.Theusefulnessofradarisalsoadverselyaffectedifthetargetvesselissmallandnotconstructedofradar-reflectivematerialsordoesnothavearadarreflectorinstalledonit.

Downlighting fromtheHarbourBridgealongwithbackgroundlightingandreflectionsoff thewatercanalsomakespottingsomevesselsdifficult.Soin2009,SydneyFerries(asitwasthenknown)advancedthetechnologyofitsfleetbyincludingtheinstallationofFLIRM320Lcamerastoassistinnight-timeandlow-visibilitynavigation.

“Although thermal imaging cameras produce clear images intotal darkness,wearealsooperatingduring the twilighthoursoftheday,whensomesunlightormoonlight ispresent.Also,duringdockingoperations there is some light fromthemarinapresent.Forthesesituationswewantedalow-lightcameraaswell,”statedGlennYoung,HarbourCityFerriesgeneralmanageroperationsandassetmanagement

Thejoystickisoneachbridgeconsole,asclosetothewheelaspossible,soallfeaturesarerightatthefingertips.TheM320Lprovidescrisp,clearthermalimageryintotaldarknessandlightfogorsmoke.TheergonomicM-Seriesjoystickcontrolunitprovidesreadyaccesstoallcriticalsystemfunctionsandsmooth,effortlesscontrol,eveninroughseas.TheradarshadowandvisibilityissuescastbytheSydneyHarbourBridgearenotanissuewiththermalimagingtechnology.

“When we understood that Sydney Ferries wanted to have acombinationofathermalimagingcameraandalow-lightcamera,wedecidedtodemonstratetheFLIRM320L,”saidPaulGarske,generalmanagerofCoursemasterAutopilots.

InstallationoftheFLIRM320Lcommencedin2009alongwithotherNavaidsequipment,supplied,installedandsupportedbyElectrotechAustralia.“TheFLIRthermalimagingcamerasarenavigationalaidsforthemastersandcrewoftheferriestoassistduringtimesofpoorvisibility,suchasfog,rain,glare,lowlightandatnight,”saidStephenPenny,projectmanagerofElectrotech.ThesystemsarealsousedforincidentrecordinginconjunctionwithGPS,timestampandspeedoverlay;allofwhichwereinstalledbyElectrotech.

“AtHarbourCityFerrieswedecidedtoconnecttheM320Ltoonededicated 15″HattelandLCDscreen.Themastercaneasilyswitchfromtheimageofthelow-lightcameratothethermalimage,andback,wheneverhewants,atthetouchofabutton.Thecamerasaresetupinhomeposition,whichisuseful,andeachmasteralsosetsthemtotheirownpersonalpreferences,”saidYoung.

“The feedback that we are receiving from masters on theFLIRM320Lhasbeengreat,”saidYoung.

“They all report that the M320L helps them to get a betterunderstandingofwhatishappeningaroundtheirvessel.TheyfinditextremelyeasytouseandthejoystickallowsthemastertooperateallthefeaturesoftheM320Lsuchaspan/tiltorswitchingfromdaylighttothermalimage.Thejoystickisoneachbridgeconsole,asclosetothewheelaspossible,soallfeaturesarerightatthemaster’sfingertips.

Priortothethermalcamerainstalls,ferrymasterswereregularlyradioingwarningsofunlit kayakersandothervessels, fearingthepossibilityofafatalcollision.“Smallcraftaredifficulttospotusingradar,”saidferrymasterWaynePritchard.“Theyaredesignedsotheydon’thavealotofsuperstructureabovethewatersoitisdifficultfortheradartopickthemup.”NowarmedwiththeFLIRM-Seriesthermalimagingcamerasthemastershaveaclearviewofthewater,evenintotaldarkness.OneferrymasterevencommentingthattheFLIRwastheonlyreasonhewasabletospotanunlitkayakerintimetoavoidacollision.

Sightingsofunlitvessels,usuallysmallboatsthatarenotrequiredtocarryfixedlights,arecommon,buttherearealsoregularsightingsofunlitvesselsthatoughttohavefixednavigationlightsilluminatedatnight.

FLIR Systems Australia Pty Ltd



NEWPRODUCTS

LED high- and low-bay lightsCetus LED high- and low-bay lights are the latest addition to enLighten’s growing

Constellation series of lights. The lights come in a range of sizes due to their

modular design. Each module is a standard size and uses approximately 45 W.

Cetus can be used in both high- and low-bay applications using a variety of lens types to tailor

the light output to the lighting need.

Latest technology, including LUXEON Lumiled LED, high-quality drivers and optics enable the lights to deliver

more than 90 lm/W. Integrated optical lenses improve light output flexibility and direct light to where it is needed.

The lights support a range of intelligent lighting controls which enable occupancy, movement and daylight sensing.

The Cetus high-bay range is suitable for a broad range of applications including: warehousing, large retail sites,

manufacturing sites. The Cetus low-bay range is suitable for loading docks, car park entries and smaller retail outlets.

Key benefits include: energy savings - up to 70% compared to traditional mercury vapour lighting; flexibility - scal-

able from 2-6 modules to deliver a range of lumen outputs; 40, 60 or 120° optical lenses enabling a customised

light delivery footprint; heat management - designed for operating environment of up to 60° ambient temperature;

and long life (50,000+ h) reduces maintenance in applications where reliability is critical and access can be difficult.

Design features include: state-of-the-art LED driver technology, developed in Australia by enLighten; generous heat

sink promoting airflow for heat management; external power pack for heat management; external quick connector

allowing for extension cabling if required; inclusion of dust cover and steel mounting bar in standard product offering.

The modular Cetus is available in a standard range of 2-6 modules. Customised solutions are available for

individual applications. Standard dimensions for the 2-module unit are 120 (h) x 300 (w) x 200 (l) mm. For 3- to

6-module units, height and width remain constant, an additional 100 mm length is added per module.

enLighten Australia Pty Ltd


http://www.techrentals.com.au


ElectricalcontractorsworseoffJames Tinslay, CEO

The 2013 NECA Market Monitor released in Septemberclearly shows that although industry charge-out rateshave gone up by 7% since the 2011 survey, the cost ofdoing business has risen by around 25% over the pastyear alone.So the averageelectrical contractor is con-siderablyworseofftodaythantheyweretwoyearsago.

Someof the interesting trends fromthis surveyare:theaveragecontractingbusinessemploys13people(upfrom9in2011);lessthan8%oftheindustryemploymorethan25people;overheadshaverisenbyupto40%;homeautomation, possibly due to the NBN, is emerging as akeyskillsrequirement;thenumberofapprenticesbeingtakenonisfalling;themostsignificant‘newtechnology’skills relate to renewable energy and energy efficiency.

Thepressureonthenewfederalgovernmenttorevisitthechallengesofrunningasmallbusinessisenormous.And we will be reminding all the new ministers wemeetofexactlywhatour industryneedstoseechange,which includes the rethinking of the National Licensingissue and further support of the ACCI’s 2BIG2IGNOREcampaign which we sponsor.

In 2005, NECA launched an initiative to raise theawareness of the safety issues around non-compliantproducts.Morerecently,wejoinedforceswithVoltimumtolaunchtheDoesitComply?campaign.Thiscampaignisacomprehensiveindustry-driveninitiativethatreinforcesthedangersofnon-compliantproducts inordertokeepthis issue at the forefront of people’s minds.

The recent withdrawal of non-compliant cabling inNSW and Queensland is a stark reminder of what hap-pens when people get it wrong. We therefore stronglyurgeallelectricalcontractorstovisitwww.doesitcomply.com.auandsignthepledgetostampoutnon-compliantgoods across Australia.

Another initiative we are proud to be supporting isthe drive by KNX - a global standards not-for-profitorganisation, to encourage manufacturers to produceproductstoan internationalbuildingcontrolstandard inorder to allow the end user to select the systems andrange of products that best suit their particular needs.The days of being locked into one range of products,whichgenerallyalsomeantbeing locked intousingonemanufacturer, are clearly a thing of the past. And thisis great news for the industry and the consumer. So atrue win-win.www.neca.asn.au

NEWPRODUCTS

Interface connectors with solder bucket contactsHARTING has expanded its space-saving har-link metric product

range with a version equipped with solder bucket contacts. Until

now, connectors were supplied on the cable side only with an

insulation displacement termination.

The har-link with solder bucket contacts enables fast and easy

harness prototyping for test purposes, for example, without the

use of special dedicated tooling. With the contact style, wires

from the AWG 30 up to the AWG 24 can be mounted on the

cable side of the har-link connection, providing high flexibility

and compatibility with a large range of cables.

The modular and compact har-link interface connectors with

2 mm spacing can transmit data of up to 2 GBps per twisted

conductor. Also equipped with a special screening concept,

har-link reliably delivers optimum functionality in areas affected

electromagnetically.

The product is manufactured in accordance with IEC 61076-4-

107 and is a compact, robust cable connector which is said to

provide excellent data transmission to the PCB in high-frequency

networks and telecommunication applications.

HARTING Pty Ltd


Biometric switchesThe Harmony XB5S biometric switches eliminate security

risks associated with lost, forgotten or stolen keys, cards

and passwords.

The switches allow users to limit access to specific and

dangerous machine functions to trained and authorised

operators. Designed for use in industrial environments, the

entire range offers IP65 water and dust protection, 50 gn

shock and vibration resistance, -5 to +55°C operating

temperature range, and responds

to the presence of a finger in

less than one second.

Other features include: user

database management and

access-attempt logging capa-

bilities; simple and quick touch

entry for authorised users;

smart access control - with abil-

ity to assign different clearance levels (eg, operators,

administrators, etc); rugged design and high-performance

specifications.

Schneider Electric (Aust) Pty Ltd



EMONAemail [email protected] web www.protag.com.au

ProTag PrimeTest Elite Australia’s Most Advanced Test & Tag System

SydneyTel 02 9519 3933Fax 02 9550 1378

MelbourneTel 03 9889 0427Fax 03 9889 0715

BrisbaneTel 07 3275 2183Fax 07 3275 2196

AdelaideTel 08 8363 5733Fax 08 83635799

PerthTel 08 9361 4200Fax 08 9361 4300

� High Definition Colour Display

� In-Built Camerawith Flash

� USB for DataUp/Down Load

� Bluetooth ForPrinter & Scanner

The new ProTag Elite System tests portable appliances & RCDs, takes asset photos,prints Elite UV resistant test tags & downloads results to PC. Mains & battery powered.Faster testing & asset management for mining, construction, factories & workshops.

NEWPRODUCTS

Multifunction calibratorThe 5730A is designed for calibration professionals who require

the most accurate DC/low-frequency signals available in a

multifunction calibrator.

The calibrator builds on the proven foundation of the

5700A/5720A with improved accuracy, new digital components

and a large, full-colour, touch-screen display. The new display

brings all of the calibrator’s status and settings into one location,

making any operation accessible with the touch of a finger. For laboratories

running their existing 57XX calibrator under remote control, the 5730A can be set to run in 5700A/5720A emulation mode,

eliminating the need to rewrite system software or procedures.

The 5730A also improves on the performance of the 5720A in AC current, AC voltage and resistance functions. Speci-

fications are absolute, stated in 99% and 95% confidence intervals, traceable to international standards via ISO 17025

accreditation and include the uncertainty of the calibration standards used so no additional analysis is required.

The calibrator, like its predecessors, features artifact calibration, which transfers the assigned value of an external artifact

to a large array of multidimensional parameters within the instrument. The calibrator can fully adjust itself using only three

external standards. The calibration process takes only about an hour as opposed to several hours using traditional methods.

Fluke Australia Pty Ltd


Stainless steel cabling micro toolThe compact 6-In-1 stainless steel Micro Tool is available from 4Cabling.

The light and durable mini tool is designed to make minor repairs, assemblies

and cabling installations easy to complete.

The pocket-sized 6-In-1 is suitable for indoor or outdoor installations, or in

an emergency that requires a small repair.

The quick-release design snaps to a key ring and can be easily freed for mul-

tiple everyday tasks.

The tool can be used as a: flat screwdriver; Phillips screwdriver; micro-sized

screwdriver; straight blade knife; serrated blade knife; bottle opener.

4Cabling Pty Ltd


http://www.protag.com.au


NEWPRODUCTS

High-amperage DC power plug and jackSwitchcraft has introduced the high-amperage power plug and jack to its extensive range of DC

power plugs and jacks.

Sealed and non-sealed versions are available and are rated up to 11 A current (carry) up to

24 VDC at 55°C with an operating temperature of -40 to 105°C. Automatic switchover from AC to

DC is permitted by sleeve shunt switch.

The power plug and jacks are available in locking and non-locking versions, and the sealed

versions are sealed to IP68, NEMA 250 (6P), when mated.

The high amperage power plug and jack has applications in any sealed data transmission, military

or industrial GPS location devices, instrumentation, medical equipment, marine, transportation and

power supplies, as well as general industrial electronic applications.

Clarke & Severn Electronics


Testing solution for application-aware networksThe Spirent Avalanche NEXT tests the performance,

scalability and security of application-aware network

infrastructures by generating authentic traffic and at-

tacks. Avalanche NEXT combines Spirent Avalanche’s

performance testing with Spirent Studio’s threats and

application emulation capabilities to deliver realism and

comprehensive test coverage.

With thousands of applications on the network and

hundreds of updates every day on millions of devices,

quality assurance, engineering and IT teams are strug-

gling to quickly and effectively test, validate and roll

out application-aware systems and networks. Spirent

Avalanche NEXT can help address these challenges

with a solution that delivers security testing capabilities

that save time and effort without compromising the

quality of the test results.

Matrium Technologies Pty Ltd


Quick-lock moduleA version of the Han E Module from HARTING is available with Han-Quick Lock termina-

tion technology, a further refinement of the module with crimp terminals.

Assembly is a time-saving and simple process needing no special tools. This also

makes the Han E Quick Lock Module suitable for on-site assembly in field locations.

Contacts are reliable and vibration-resistant, ensuring maximum safety in demanding

applications in industry and transportation engineering.

The electrical specification of the module with six contacts, designed for

16 A and 500 V, matches the data of the established module with crimp

terminals and has 100% connection compatibility.

HARTING Pty Ltd



• No piercing glow of ceramic metal halides• No unshapely CFL tubes• Just a smooth single diffused glow• Deeply recessed in a brilliant reflector• Powered by Philip LED modules & drivers• 50,000 hours

elegance

AdvanceQuez AvL LED Lampsin Down & Track Lightings with

DLMM Series

NSW T: 02 9748 0655 F: 02 9748 0258 E: [email protected] T: 03 9886 7800 F: 02 9886 7799 W: www.tenrod.com.auQLD T: 07 3879 2133 F: 07 3879 2188 1/24 Vore St, Silverwater 2128NZ T: 09 298 4346 F: 09 353 1317 21 Aristoc Rd, Glen Waverley 3150

Powered by:

DLM-i

LED alternative to ceramic metal halides: Elegant Track Lighting with single diffused glow, smoothened edges of light beam cones and high CRI of 90

AvL Tracklights

NEWPRODUCTS

Portable capacitance meterThe ABB CB-2000 portable capaci-

tance meter is a compact, lightweight

unit that allows the user to take meas-

urements from individual capacitors

in a capacitor bank without any

disconnections/disturbances to

the system. It is available to rent.

Supplied software and drivers

allow measured values to be

exchanged to and from a PC

via the supplied USB cable.

Features include: battery

powered, no need for a mains

connection; approximately 8 h operating time

between charges; easy analysis and generation of

reports with supplied software; clear LCD display

easy to read in daylight or dark environments;

measuring range of 0 to 1000 µF.

TechRentals


High-output LED floodlightHella’s HypaLUME LED floodlight is suitable for both DC and AC ap-

plications and has been designed to withstand demanding outdoor

and industrial requirements.

The floodlight produces more than 20,000 lm by using 56 high-

power, colour-matched LEDs coupled with three specialised optical

distributions and is said to consume far less power compared with

conventional industrial lighting.

It uses 240 W at 24 VDC, translating to a luminous efficiency close

to 100 lm/W, which means it provides similar light levels to a 400 W

metal halide light fitting while using far less power.

The company says the LEDs operate at a colour temperature of

5700K to provide a near daylight environment and a comfortable work

area wherever they are used. They are also protected from reverse

polarity and short-circuit faults, and the light produced is said to remain

consistent across a wide range of voltage applications.”

The unit’s driver board and housing have been designed to use

advanced thermal management, which draws heat away from the

LEDs to ensure long operating life.

The lights are also designed to operate in temperatures ranging

from -40 to 50°C with no decrease in output, while the high-impact

lens is chemical resistant.

Typical applications for the floodlights include loading bays, tunnels,

warehouses and wharves.

Hella Australia Pty Ltd



Bass Electrical helps Tooheys automate beer-brewing process

CAS

E ST

UDY

When Tooheys decided toupgrade its brewery inLidcombe,NewSouthWales,it turned to Bass Electrical

Engineering for assistance. The ARAGroup-ownedBasshasbeencarryingoutelectricalworkattheTooheysLidcombesite for several years. There was atenderingprocessfortheinstallationandpart of the reasonBasswassuccessfulwas due to the company’s quality work,high safety standards and a record losttimeinjuryfree(LTIF)rateofthreemillionhours.

The production capacity of TooheysLidcombe brewery (in operation since1978) is around 3.3 million hectolitres ayear.Thebreweryisthegroup’sprimaryfacility in NSW and delivers around43%shareofthetheNSWbeermarket.As a part of the upgrade, a new Bright Beer Tank (BBT) cellarwas installed to replace three BBT cellars. The old cellars hada manual process and were replaced to eliminate the manualhandlingcomponentandtoimproveproductquality.WiththehelpofBass’selectricalengineersandtechnicians,thecellarnowhasanautomatedbeer-brewingprocess.Bassdesignedandbuiltthe

stainlesssteellocalcontrolpanelsandprovidedpower,automationandcontrolcommunicationstothecellar.

“Thetank-toplightingposedachallenge.Duetotheheightofthetopofthetanks,therewasariskoftoolsandequipmentfallingwheninstallinglightsontraditionallightpoles.ThiswassolvedbytheuseoftheSwivelpoles,”saidBassElectricalGeneralManagerDavidLeBeau.

The Swivelpole light-mounting system allows for safe andeasyaccesstolightsforinstallation,inspectionandmaintenance.Thepoleshave a bracketing arrangement for affixing the lights,eliminating the need to to drill holes. Swivelpole’s innovativedesign eliminates the risk of working at heights through thecontrolledloweringofthepoletoptoasafeworkingposition.Thesystemsolvedaccessissues,raisedsafetystandardsandloweredmaintenancecosts.

“Anotherchallengewasaveryshorttimeframetocompletetheproject.BassElectricalwasrequiredtouseservicesoftheon-sitemechanicalcontractorformanufactureofallstainlesssteelcablesupports for the entire project. The mechanical contractor alsohadtocompleteothercontractworkforthesameprojectwithinthesametimeframe.Thiswasaddressedbyplanning,prioritisingandholding regularmeetingswith themechanical contractor tokeepcommunicationlinesopenandtoensurebothtradesmettheirrespectivetimelines,”saidLeBeau.

“Tooheys’ projects are always interesting because Tooheysuses innovativesystems.Thework isofanichenatureandfitswellwithBass’sexperienceandcapability,”saidLeBeau.BassElectricalwasalsonamedafinalistintheNationalElectricalandCommunicationsAssociation(NECA)NSWExcellenceAwardsintheIndustrialProjectCategoryforthecompany’sworkontheproject.

Bassdeliversservicesacrossawiderangeofmarketsincludingtheminingandresources,steel,oil,gas,water,energygeneration,manufacturing, food and beverage, process, and petrochemicalindustrysectors.

ARA Group



NEWPRODUCTS

Multifunction power meterSATEC’s PM130EH provides full multi-

function capabilities for measurement

of all electrical parameters, volts,

current, frequency, power factor,

watt-hour, watts, VA, kVAR, demand,

harmonics, etc.

The PM130EH provides fast real-time,

cycle-by-cycle measurements, averaging

values 8, 16, 32 or 64 cycles selectable

from the front keypad. The PM130EH’s

plus compact design has high-accuracy

revenue measurements at Class 0.5s, making it suitable for applications in the

industrial, commercial arena where data integrity is essential with the onboard

non-volatile memory for data logging.

The PM130EH supports both DNP3 and Modbus protocols. Standard fea-

tures include assignable register mappings, 16 programmable setpoints with

10 ms update time and optional output relays for alarming and control. The

PM130EH provides add-on modules for expanded I/O, analog outputs, or ad-

ditional RS485 and/or ethernet communications. Standard universal power supply

85-265 VAC/88-290 VDC; alternatively, 12 VDC or 24/48 VDC power supply op-

tions are available.

SATEC (Australia) Pty Ltd


Micro-ohmmeterThe AEMC high-current micro-ohmmeter Model 6292 measures very low

contact resistances on high-voltage circuit breakers, switches, busbars and

other locations with user-selectable test currents from 5 to 200 A.

The ohmmeter is powered from 120 V or 230 V, 50/60 Hz. The portable

instrument incorporates optimised filters and protection for meas-

urements in electrical substations. It employs the four-terminal

Kelvin method to prevent errors caused by test leads and

their contact resistances.

To guarantee measurement accuracy, the ohmmeter features

a signal amplification system, off-set free with high, long-term

stability. A backlit alphanumeric LCD shows resistance readings

with up to 4.5 digit resolution. The instrument allows measurement resistances

up to 1 Ω with resolution as low as 0.1 µΩ. Test currents can be user adjusted

and shown on the display. The instrument includes an internal memory for stor-

ing up to 8000 readings, and a USB interface for connecting to a computer to

download the stored values.

The ohmmeter incorporates an advanced high-current generation system

using smaller components that significantly decreases its size and weight

(11 kg), resulting in a rugged but lightweight instrument that can be easily

carried by one person. The hard plastic case is highly resistant to impact and

environmental conditions. Internal thermal sensors in all sensitive components

protect the instrument from overheating.

The device is water resistant and can be used in poor weather conditions

(IP54 with closed lid), suitable for use both in the laboratory and in the field.

AEMC Instruments


http://www.ampere.com.au


NEWPRODUCTS

Low-voltage power supply optionsMoore Industries-International

has added low-voltage power

supply options to many of its

products. This addition makes

these products suitable for use

in remote applications such as

oil and natural gas wellheads

where power supplies are lim-

ited and harsh environmental

conditions often exist.

Products that have recently

added a 12 VDC power supply

option include: the CPA 4-wire

PC-programmable alarm; the CPT 4-wire PC-programmable signal isolator and

converter; the ECA 4-wire current and voltage alarm; the ECT 4-wire signal isolator,

converter, repeater and splitter; and the TMZ 4-wire PC-programmable Modbus

temperature transmitter and signal converter.

The company’s line of low-voltage instruments addresses a growing demand by

customers with solar and battery sources as their primary means for operational

power in remote areas. All of these products are designed for harsh conditions.

They are suitable for extreme ambient operating conditions and offer a high level

of RFI/EMI protection against the harmful effects of electromagnetic interference.

Moore Industries Pacific Inc


Design software for utility networksBentley Utilities Designer is a comprehensive software application for the

streamlined design and management of electric, gas, water and wastewater

utility networks.

The software advances the building information modelling (BIM) objectives of

faster/earlier design decisions and the creation of better-performing, intelligent

utility infrastructure through the use of information modelling.

Features include: more efficient design capability through built-in access

to MicroStation, the information modelling environment for infrastructure pro-

fessionals; the elimination of time-consuming, open-loop processes for cost

estimation and review through the provision of on-the-fly cost estimation for

each design decision and configurable design workflow management; option

of consolidating network design and management into a single application

for reduced software complexity and costs through the software’s built-in,

utility-specific GIS based on the Bentley Map platform; the ability to efficiently

manage work requests and designs in stand-alone mode or via seamless

integration with a variety of enterprise work management systems through

the fully configurable workflow engine; increased productivity, accelerated projects and reduced risk through the

software’s intraoperability with ProjectWise, the company’s system of collaboration servers and services that ena-

bles utility owner-operators to improve the quality, re-use and auditing of design and construction information; rich

and reliable information exchange with field personnel through the ability to publish project drawings and utility

network maps as i-models that can be reviewed on mobile devices using Bentley Map Mobile.

Bentley Systems Pty Ltd


Current clamp setAvailable to rent, the Fluke

i5sPQ3 Current Clamps

(3 x i5S clamps per set)

are specially configured

to provide low current ac-

curacy while taking meas-

urements on secondary

current transformers.

Each clamp is CAT III

600 V safety rated (for insulated conductors only)

and suits the Fluke 435 Power Quality Analyser and

other instruments with BNC inputs.

Features include: low level current clamp measures

up to 5 A AC; compact shape makes transporting

and storing convenient; the clamp measures only

116 x 43 x 23 mm.

TechRentals



ABB to power one of Africa’s largest photovoltaic solar plants

CAS

E ST

UDY

Automation and technology groupABBhaswonanorderwortharound$25 million to supply electrical andcontrol systems for a new 75 MW

photovoltaic (PV) power plant in the NorthernCapeprovinceofSouthAfrica.

OwnedbyWBHO,aSouthAfricanconstructioncompany, and Building Energy, an Italianrenewable energy developer and operator, theplantislocatedintheKalahariDesertclosetothetownofKathuandtoSishen,oneofthelargestopen-pitironoreminesintheworld.

The Kathu PV power plant is among thefirsttrancheofprojectstobeawardedaspartof South Africa’s renewable energy program,which aims to diversify the country’s energymix and reduce its carbon footprint. Oncecompleted in 2014, it is expected to be oneof the world’s largest PV power plants with a single-axistracking system. It will have the capacity to generate around146GWhof cleansolarpower to feed into thenational grid -enoughtomeettheneedsofover40,000peoplebasedonaveragenationalpercapitaconsumptionanddisplacingtheequivalentofabout50,000tonsofcarbondioxideemissionsannually.

“Renewable energy sources such as solar have a key roleto play in meeting the growing demand for electricity whileminimising environmental impact,” said Brice Koch, head ofABB’sPowerSystemsdivision.“Wehaveastrongtrackrecordindeliveringturnkeypowerandautomationsolutionsthatareoptimisingphotovoltaicpowerplantsallovertheworld.”

ABB’sturnkeyelectricalandautomationsolutionwilloptimisethe performance of the Kathu plant to maximise output whileensuringreliabilityinremoteanddemandingoperatingconditions.Thesolution includesa rangeofABBpowerproductssuchasmedium-andlow-voltageswitchgear,distributiontransformers,

andcontrolandprotectiondevices.ItalsoincorporatesdistributedautomationandcontrolproductsfromtheSymphonyPlusfamily.ABB will be responsible for the design, engineering, supply,installationandcommissioningoftheproject.

Key features of the ABB solution include the integration oftheplant’selectricalequipmentandhigh-voltagesubstationwiththe company’s proprietary Symphony Plus distributed controlsystem(DCS)solutioninconformancewiththeIEC61850open-communication standard for substation automation. ABB willalso supply an advanced tracking system with a back-trackingalgorithmthatoptimisestrackermovementandeliminatesshadowonthepanels.Thesolutionalsofeaturesadata-collectionsystemthatcollectsoperationalinputfromthetrackers,inverters,stringboxesandsubstationtoenableremoteoperationandmaintenance,therebyalleviatingtheneedforon-sitemanning.

ABB Australia Pty LtdContact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/T949

NEWPRODUCTS

Clamp tester for power line analysisThe UNI-T UT243 clamp tester is suitable for conductors to 50 mm diameter and provides a comprehen-

sive suite of parameters for single- and three-phase, 3- and 4-wire power line analysis including active,

reactive and apparent power in true rms measurement mode as well as energy in kWh to 9999 kWh.

The TRMS clamp tester also measures harmonics to the 20th order as well as phase angle and

power factor, making the instrument suitable for industrial and commercial installations.

The clamp tester is equipped with a phase rotation tester, making it suitable for ensuring compres-

sors, pumps and fans are operating in the correct phase sequence. The instrument is also provided

with a USB interface and internal data logging with facility for storing 999 data points.

The TRMS clamp tester measures current to 1000 A, voltage to 600 V and power, reactive power

and apparent power to 600 kW, kVAr and kVA respectively. The backlit display provides high-resolution

measurements to 10.000 counts with facility for maximum and minimum value storage.

Power Parameters Pty Ltd



Fightthefakes

Malcolm Richards, CEO

Asmanyofyoumaybeaware,NSWFairTradinghasrecentlyissuedapublicwarningtoconsum-ers and industry not to purchase or install anyInfinity branded TPS or ‘orange round’ electri-calcablesafter itwas founddeficiencies in themanufacturing of the cables and deteriorationof the insulation on the cables over time couldpotentiallyresultinanelectricshockorfire.Thisfollowed an initial voluntary recall by ProductSafetyRecallsAustraliaforthreebatchesoftheInfinity-branded electric cables sold in MastersHome Improvement stores across the countryfrom April 2012 to 16 August 2013.

ImmediatelyfollowingthepublicwarningissuedbyNSWFairTrading,InfinityCable,theimporteranddistributoroftheproduct,wentintoliquidation.AtMasterElectriciansAustralia(MEA),wefirmlybelieveandconstantlypushhardtoadvocatethemessageof‘qualityoverprice’.Weallknowthatwhen it comes to working with electricity, thequality of the materials we use can sometimesbe the difference between life and death.

This was why, in response to these events,MEAimmediatelylaunchedacampaigntoincreaseawareness for homeowners and industry aboutthiscriticalsafetyissueandtobringallretailersto account for these low-grade products beingmade available for sale in our country. Follow-ing significant media exposure and lobbying byMEA, the Queensland Government enacted animmediate ban on the sale and installation ofall Infinity-branded cables. The West AustralianGovernment has also issued a stop sale noticeon the Infinity products.

Not only that, Masters Home Improvementcontacted MEA to request our assistance inremoving the faulty Infinity cable following itssafetyrecall.Thehardwarechainhasagreedtocover the costs for our members to undertakethe rectification work.

This is not only a significant win for our in-dustry, but for members and the general publicinmakinghomesacrossAustraliasafer.Thenextstep now is for all other states to immediatelybantheInfinitycablesothatwecansilencethisticking time bomb once and for all.

www.masterelectricians.com.au

NEWPRODUCTS

Cable glandsThe OSCG range of IECEx cable glands from Kabex Australia is

suitable for use with steel wire armour and/or braided screened

cables in hazardous areas including petrochemical, oil and gas,

chemical, fertiliser, shipbuilding, paint and solvent, sugar, LNG, power

and mining industries along with anywhere else where flammable

atmosphere may exist.

The E1WF and E1XF glands have double compression for outer/

inner jacket of cable. Compression seals are made from silicone in-

stead of PVC and can also be used for all types of armoured cables.

Complying to a range of international regulations, the E1WF and

E1XF cable glands (E1WF is for steel wire armoured cables and E1XF

is for braided screen cables) are IECEx certified for use in hazard-

ous industrial areas within Australia as they are also triple certified

Exd IIC, Exe II, ExtD A21 for Zones 1, 2, 21 and 22.

Key features include: full range of thread sizes available up to

M100 or 4″ NPT; metric threads supplied complete with locknut and

sealing washer; available in nickel-plated brass or stainless steel.

Kabex Australia


Thermal imaging camerasThe FLIR Ex-Series cameras are suit-

able for electrical and mechanical

inspections where the ability to

detect potential problem areas

means that installations can be

quickly and easily inspected and

breakdowns avoided.

The cameras are suitable for detecting

insulation losses, inspecting under-floor

heating and many other building-related

anomalies. The cameras provide the user

with a new dimension in inspection capa-

bility. An affordable replacement for a spot

pyrometer, they provide a thermal image with

temperature information on every pixel. It is claimed

a FLIR thermal imaging camera can scan an entire

area, never missing a potential problem area, no

matter how small it might be.

Designed for entry-level users, and measuring tem-

peratures up to +250°C, the cameras produce instant,

‘point-and-shoot’, JPEG thermal imagery with all required temperature

data included. A built-in visual camera makes observing and inspecting

faster and easier, as the visual image can be used as a reference

against the thermal image. FLIR’s patented MSX technology provides

thermal images in real time. This results in sharper-looking thermal

images, quicker target orientation and clutter-free reports.

FLIR Systems Australia Pty Ltd


List (A) Job Function

1 Management - Corporate/General2 Management - Manufacturing/ Engineering/Specialist3 Engineer - Electrical4 Engineer - Electronics5 Engineer - Process6 Engineer - Project7 Purchasing/Procurement8 Technician - Maintenance/Service9 Technician - IT10 Technical Officer11 Scientific Officer - R&D12 Scientific Officer - QA13 Consultant14 Contractor/Tradesperson15 OHS/EHS16 Education/Training17 Student-Undergraduate/Apprentice18 Analyst19 Sales/Marketing

List (B) Industry

1 Agriculture/Rural 2 Building/Construction 3 Chemicals/Allied Products 4 Communications Systems 5 Defence/Military 6 Education 7 Emergency Services/Law Enforcement/Security 8 Engineering Services 9 Environmental Services 10 Finance/Banking/Insurance/Legal 11 Food Industry - Bakery12 Food Industry - Beverages13 Food Industry - Confectionery14 Food Industry - Dairy15 Food Industry - Fruit & Vegetables16 Food Industry - Meat 17 Government - Federal18 Government - State19 Government - Local20 Health/Hospital 21 Instrumentalities (eg CSIRO) 22 IT - Networking23 IT - Security24 IT - Storage25 IT - Wireless26 Laboratory - Analytical27 Laboratory - Clinical/Medical28 Laboratory - Life Sciences29 Logistics/Transport/Warehouse 30 Manufacturing 31 Mining32 Oil/Gas/Coal33 Packaging34 Processing35 Retail/Wholesale/Hire36 Service/Maintenance37 Telecommunication38 Testing/Certification (eg NATA)39 Utilities

PRIVACY INFORMATION: www.westwick-farrow.com.au/pages/privacy.asp

My main job function is(Select from List A)

My organisation's main industry sector is(Select from List B)

FREESUBSCRIPTION!

ECD

Please complete this form in fulland fax to +61 2 9489 1265

ECD Solutions is FREE to industry professionals in Australia and New Zealand.

To continue receiving your free copy you will be asked to register every three years.

www.ECDSolutions.com.au/subscribe

Fax this completed page to +61 2 9489 1265

2 quick ways to register:

Name:

Job Title:

Organisation Name:

Address:

Postcode: Country:

Phone No: Mobile:

Fax No:

Email:

Signature:

Date:

Wrapper number:(if known)

OPTIONSI would like to receive this magazine digital print both

I would also like the ECDSolutions.com.au eNewsletter


A.B.N. 22 152 305 336Head OfficeCnr. Fox Valley Road & Kiogle Street,(Locked Bag 1289) Wahroonga NSW 2076 AustraliaPh: +61 2 9487 2700 Fax: +61 2 9489 1265

Editor: Mansi Gandhi [email protected]

Assistant Editor: Alice Richard

Chief Editor: Janette Woodhouse

Publisher: Geoff Hird

Art Director/Production Manager: Julie Wright

Art/Production: Tanya Scarselletti, Colleen Sam

Circulation Manager: Sue [email protected]

Copy Control: Mitchie [email protected]

Advertising Sales:

National Sales Manager - Nicola Fender-FoxPh: 0414 703 [email protected]

NSW, QLD, VIC - Mark RyuPh: 0404 803 [email protected]

SA, WA - Lachlan RaineyPh: 0402 157 [email protected]

New Zealand - Gemma BurrPh: 0800 442 [email protected]

USA - Huson International Media East Coast Ph: +1 212 268 3344West Coast Ph: +1 408 879 [email protected]

UK - Huson International Media Ph: +44 1932 56 [email protected]

ASIA - Lachlan Rainey Ph: +61 (0) 402 157 167

Subscriptions: For unregistered readers - price on application

If you have any queries regarding our privacy policyplease email [email protected]

All material published in this magazine is published in good faith and every care is taken to accurately relay information provided to us. Readers are advised by the publishers to ensure that all necessary safety devices and precautions are installed and safe working procedures adopted before the use of any equipment found or purchased through the information we provide. Further, all performance criteria was provided by the representative company concerned and any dispute should be referred to them. Information indicating that products are made in Australia or New Zealand is supplied by the source company. Westwick-Farrow Pty Ltd does not quantify the amount of local content or the accuracy of the statement made by the source.

ECD Solutions: ISSN 2201-2702Printed and bound by Webstar +61 2 9748 0020

March 2013 Total CAB Audited Circulation (Aust + NZ) 7,307 (68% personally requested)

ELECTRICALSWITCH

Researchers from the USD e p a r t m e n t o f E n e r -gy’s (DOE) SLAC NationalAccelerator Laboratory have

clocked the fastest-possible electricalswitchinginmagnetite,anaturallymag-neticmineral.Theirresultscoulddriveinnovations inthetinytransistorsthatcontrol the flow of electricity acrosssilicon chips, enabling faster, morepowerful computing devices.

Scientists using SLAC’s Linac Co-herentLightSource(LCLS)X-raylaserfound that it takes only 1 trillionth ofa second to flip the on-off electricalswitchinsamplesofmagnetite,whichis thousands of times faster than intransistors now in use. The resultswerepublishedinNature Materials.“Thisbreakthrough research reveals for thefirsttimethe‘speedlimit’forelectricalswitchinginthismaterial,”saidRoopaliKukreja,amaterialsscienceresearcherat SLAC and Stanford University whois a lead author of the study.

The LCLS experiment also showedresearchershowtheelectronicstruc-ture of the sample rearranged intonon-conducting ‘islands’ surrounded by electrically conducting regions, which beganto form just hundreds of quadrillionths of a second after a laser pulse struck thesample.Thestudyshowshowsuchconductingandnon-conductingstatescancoexistand create electrical pathways in next-generation transistors.

Scientists first hit each sample with a visible-light laser, which fragmented thematerial’s electronic structure at an atomic scale, rearranging it to form the islands.The laser blast was followed closely by an ultrabright, ultrashort X-ray pulse thatallowed researchers to study, for the first time, the timing and details of changes inthe sample excited by the initial laser strike.

Byslightlyadjustingthe intervaloftheX-raypulses,theypreciselymeasuredhowlong it took the material to shift from a non-conducting to an electrically conductingstate, and observed the structural changes during this switch.

The magnetite had to be cooled to minus 190°C to lock its electrical charges inplace, so the next step is to study more complex materials and room-temperatureapplications, Kukreja said. Future experiments will aim to identify exotic compoundsand test new techniques to induce the switching and tap into other properties thatare superior to modern-day silicon transistors. The researchers have already con-ducted follow-up studies focusing on a hybrid material that exhibits similar ultrafastswitchingpropertiesatnearroomtemperature,whichmakes itabettercandidate forcommercial use than magnetite.

RESEARCH

ULTRAFAST

An optical laser pulse (red streak from upper right) shatters the ordered electronic structure (blue) in an insulating sample of magnetite, switching the material to electri-cally conducting (red) in one trillionth of a second. (Greg Stewart/SLAC)

http://www.detaelectrical.com.au

w

w

ConneCting AustrAliA & new ZeAlAnd for over 30 yeArs

The leading brands in the Australia & New Zealand cabling market,

AMP Netconnect and KRONE, together under one company - TE Connectivity.

TE Connectivity is the sole manufacturer in Australia & New Zealand

providing ITC solutions from Data Centre to Enterprise buildings.

Data Centre Infrastructure Management systems

Choice of media and application speed

Cabling for Building Automation Systems

Designed for low operating cost

Local design and project support

25 year system warranty

Contact us call 1800 TE INFO (1800 83 4636) | email [email protected]

www.te.com/enterprise-au | www.te.com/enterprise-nz

KRONE has been in Australia & New Zealand for

more than 30 years designing & manufacturing

products such as the ever-lasting disconnect

module for all telephone systems, to the locally-

made RJ-45 outlets for australian faceplates.

With local technical expertise and manufacturing

we are able to provide custom solutions and

tailored products for the Australian and New

Zealand market.

A country wide network of distributors and a

large central warehouse near Sydney, means we

can support your projects as needed.

FROM T E C O N N E C T I V I T Y

Documents

ECD Solutions Nov/Dec 2013