Electical Contractor

Recent test flights in Alabama directed by the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) of prototype unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and payloads of video and other sensing equipment indicate that drone technology could be deployed to assess damage to electric transmission and distribution systems fol

Power Restoration, Utilities, EPRI, Drones

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Smart Grid Goes to College

Rick Laezman

Smart Grid, Industry Trends

Consider it a luxury. As a particular technology matures and becomes widely accepted, a new set of challenges emerge. Such is the case for the smart grid, which is passing the point of being a novelty and entering the realm of accepted practice.

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Testing: Pass Or Fail? 

The last two columns covered fiber optic power meters, test sources and the reference cables you need to test the loss of installed fiber optic cable plants. This month, I discuss using these instruments properly and how to determine if a tested cable plant passes or fails the test. 

Fiber Optics, Cables, Testing

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Natural Forces At Work 

Richard P. Bingham

George Carlin summed up the hazards of working with electricity quite well when he said, “Electricity is really just organized lightning.” Few people, except for some extreme golfers and Benjamin Franklin, would normally take extraordinary risks with lightning.

Power Quality, Safety

More on Systems

The Right Tools for You

Northeast Grid Upgrade Clears a Major Hurdle

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Systems

I’m sure you’ve heard that you need the right tool for the job, but have you ever considered that you might need the right tool for you? Nothing affects how easily a job can be done as much as having the correct tools and knowing how to use them properly.

Rick Laezman

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Systems

The need to upgrade the nation’s aging grid infrastructure has become more apparent. Fortunately, utilities and public officials are up to the task.

Having the Right Tools

Wayne D. Moore

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Systems

The tools and equipment necessary to install and test a fire alarm system have changed over the years, and until a fire official asks to perform a particular test, many contractors may be unaware that they need a new meter or specialized piece of equipment.

A Natural Choice: PoE

Darlene Bremer

November Quiz With Correct Answers and Explanations

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Systems

As network technology becomes increasingly important to operate security systems, and affordably priced Internet protocol (IP) cameras and video management systems (VMS) are used more often, system designers and installers, such as electrical contractors, are realizing the need and efficiency of usi

Web Exclusive

Statistics to Make You Think

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Systems

Fiber optic installers make some common, avoidable mistakes that cause problems for them and their customers. Do you know about these mistakes and how to avoid them? Correct answers and explanations are in red.

Julie Knudson

| October 2012

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Systems

For low-voltage contractors eager to seize more market share in the residential sector, home automation may be where ground can be gained. A BCC Research study revealed that the U.S. market for home automation systems and devices is expected to see strong growth over the next several years.

Web Exclusive

October Quiz With Correct Answers and Explanations