Systems

 

 

Integrated electrical and low-voltage systems of all types—inside and outside a building—encompass the range of work that electrical contractors do. The articles in this section highlight different types of work, from security, fire and life safety, to traditional electrical power and distribution, to lighting, cabling and more. 

The fire alarm systems industry has changed considerably over the years. Many old-timers can remember a fire alarm system that only detected a fire and sounded an alarm. Nonfire alarm systems did not interface with these fire alarm systems.

The history of classes and styles of circuits is interesting. Back in 1987, a proposal was accepted to start using Styles of Circuits instead of the Class A and B we were all used to. Well, at least some thought so.

As bandwidth demands continue to rise, both copper and fiber cable manufacturers are developing products that offer greater capacity and flexibility.

H&S Electric Inc., Valencia, Calif., has been in business since 1990. Its services include construction, commissioning, consulting, energy analysis, engineering safety, green building/­sustainability, maintenance and operations, systems management, systems design, and technology evaluation.

More on Systems

 
Taking the Old With the New
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As networks get faster, cabling to support them needs upgrading. Outside plant networks, most of which run on single-mode fiber optic cable with its almost infinite bandwidth, are rarely in need of upgrading. On the other hand, premises cabling usually needs to be upgraded.

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Building Renovations
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In a far-less-than-robust economy, we find many owners deferring moving to newly purchased or constructed facilities. Rather, they choose to renovate their existing buildings. Obviously, this process constricts the amount of work available.

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Tackling Communication Technology in a Doctor's Office
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It might sound simple, but it isn’t. The project is a technical challenge, far more complicated than moving a commercial business. Why? There are life safety issues to consider as well as the business side of a medical practice.

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There is a Bright Spot in the Healthcare Market
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Healthcare employers added 17,000 jobs in November 2011, and they’ve been adding an average of 27,000 jobs per month since December 2010, according to a recent Bureau of Labor Statistics report. That’s the good news.

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Transmission Lines to Be Replaced at Grand Coulee Dam
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The nation’s largest hydroelectric facility is about to get an upgrade. As its 75th anniversary approaches, aging transmission lines at Washington’s Grand Coulee Dam will be removed and replaced with safer, more reliable lines.

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Web Exclusive
February Quiz With Correct Answers and Explanations
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Networks and links continue to get speedier, but at some point, they require faster cabling to support them. You may need to upgrade copper to faster copper, copper to fiber or even older fibers to quicker ones. How well do you know the rules? Answers and explanations are in red.

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Train Your Way to Success
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Jim Rohn, an American author and motivational speaker, said, “Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune.” Think how that affects all of us in our daily lives.

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