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

 
Are You Ready for the Next Opportunity?
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Opportunities for new business in the commercial/industrial/institutional market continue to grow for electrical contractors. Two in particular—commissioning and integrated testing of fire protection systems and mass notification systems (MNS)—have a lot of potential for growth and new business.

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Plays Well With Others
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Two major trends in the building automation industry are opening more opportunities for electrical contractors—open standards and green movement acceptance.

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Editors' Pick
Wireless Welcome Here
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You’ve probably heard it. You might have even said it. “Wireless will be the death knell for structured cabling.”

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A New Weapon in Your Arsenal
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With the increased mobility of both people and assets, today’s security needs are different than they were a decade ago. Mobile communications keep people connected to their data and security systems in real-time, while physical security devices are using wireless technology to operate.

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Tool Research and Development
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Improvements to basic tools come in increments: new features are added, new materials become available and are used, new features add functions to a tool. New tools are developed as technologies advance.

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Missed Connections
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In the early days of fiber optics, the biggest complaint was about the difficulty of installing connectors. You had to mix epoxy and inject it into the connector. Then you had to let the adhesive cure overnight or use a bulky curing oven.

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Proceed With Caution
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While the economy takes its time turning around, each day I see more fire alarm system upgrades to replace obsolete equipment. On almost every project, I find the owner promoting a common thread.

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