Integrated Systems

Wireless Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Macrovector

Integrated Systems

Posted Mar 2019

When Less Is More: ECs Have Much to Gain From Wireless Power

Chuck Ross

Wireless technology takes on a new meaning with the latest generation of lighting controls hitting the market. While the term “wireless” has generally referred to cable-free digital communication, it also...

0319 Power Quality

Integrated Systems

Posted Mar 2019

Not Frequently a Problem: How Load Affects Frequency

Richard P. Bingham

One of the most fundamental parameters in power quality is often taken for granted. The late-19th century “Battle of the Currents” between Tesla and Westinghouse (who favored alternating current) against...

The IoT and the EC Photo Credit: istock / lisafx / shutterstock / chesky

Integrated Systems

Posted Mar 2019

The IoT and the EC: How Contractors Can Adapt to and Install the Latest Connected Technologies

Susan Casey

“The internet of things (IoT) means different things to different people,” said Bernie Shaeffer, partner at Wm. A.J. Shaeffer’s Sons Inc., King of Prussia, Pa. “In the residential world, it...

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Web Exclusive

Feb 2019

Getting Your Fire Alarm System Approved the First Time

Wayne D. Moore

It's common in our business that almost every new fire alarm system we install is the final system to come online. However, a building does not get an occupancy permit unless its fire alarm system passes the acceptance test....

Web Exclusive

Feb 2019

How OTDRs Work: The Basics

Jim Hayes

The most powerful—and complicated—instrument used for fiber optic testing is an optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR). In the hands of an educated tech, the OTDR is a powerful testing and troubleshooting tool, but it can...

Feb 2019

San Diego Developing the World's Smartest Streetlighting System

William Atkinson

While many cities talk about smart streetlights or engage in small pilot projects to attach one or two devices to several of their streetlights, San Diego, Calif., isn't waiting around. As a result, many are now calling it...

Smart City Tablet IoT photo credit pixabay / geralt

Feb 2019

Mid-City Electric Gets New Ohio State Athletics Complex Up and Running

Matt Kraus

In the world of college athletics, having state-of-the-art facilities is crucial. At Ohio State University in Columbus, Ohio, local contractor Mid-City Electric Co. helped to make sure the advanced systems in the university’s...

Schumaker Athletic Complex Ohio State University

Feb 2019

ISO Publishes New International Standard for BIM

William Atkinson

Building information modeling (BIM) has been gaining popularity in recent years, given its ability to provide architecture, engineering and construction professionals with insights and tools on how to more efficiently plan,...

Feb 2019

Substandard Subcontractors: Fiber Optic Knowledge Doesn't Always Trickle Down

Jim Hayes

It’s human nature to be more vocal when complaining than complimenting. That means I hear a lot more about what goes wrong than what goes right. I retell these stories because you should learn from your (and others’) mistakes...

Substandard Subcontractors: Fiber Optic Knowledge Doesn't Always Trickle Down

Feb 2019

Embracing Change in Security: How Contractors Can Successfully Adapt

Deborah L. O'Mara

It’s a great time to be in the physical security industry. That doesn’t mean there won’t be challenges to the traditional way of thinking in designing, installing and maintaining solutions. Success will follow for those who...

Embracing Change in Security: How Contractors Can Successfully Adapt

Feb 2019

Welcome Aboard: Hiring New Fire Alarm Systems Technicians

Wayne D. Moore

Say you want to expand your business in fire alarm and other signaling systems, such as mass notification systems (MNS). Laying out and installing these systems requires slightly different talents than those most electrical...

Welcome Aboard: Hiring New Fire Alarm Systems Technicians

Feb 2019

Let’s Get Virtual: VR Training Programs Are Gaining Popularity

Jim Romeo

Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) have found a new niche that is expanding rapidly: industrial training. Put on the goggles and headset and you’re in a simulated work environment. The reality is so vivid,...

Let’s Get Virtual: VR Training Programs Are Gaining Popularity

Feb 2019

Webinar Recording Available: What IoT Is Doing for the Electrical Industry ... and What It Can Do for You

Timothy Johnson

Join Tom Cunningham of Legrand for a quick examination of the IoT and how its increasing demand is affecting the electrical industry. Dive into trends and buzzwords, while exploring the impact of popular voice assistants like...