ECN Smart Buildings Supplement 2022 by All Things Media

February 2022

smart buildings

An ECN Supplement

SMART HOME AWE HQ, EPSOM 29th - 30th MARCH 2022 9am - 5pm REGISTER FREE TODAY

awe-europe.com See the latest from all of these market leading brands:

AWE Experience the latest in smart home tech at AWE Expo

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ENOCEAN

DOEPKE

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RCDs for premium sound systems

27/01/2022 12:57

…AND YOU’RE ON TO THE NEXT JOB The new Generation II Lever Wire Connector is compatible with 4mm squared wires, and it’ll take 32 AMP, too. So you’re free to do more, more quickly, in even the most awkward of spaces. Let’s keep things moving forwards.

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21/01/2022 14:17 22/06/2021 09:30:58

INTRODUCTION

ello and welcome to the 2022 Smart Buildings Supplement. In this issue, AWE invites you to join like-minded professionals to see, hear and experience cutting-edge technologies at AWE HQ in Epsom. Stuart Tickle, AWE’s Managing Director, explains why this Expo is a must for electrical contractors. Aico has announced the launch of its very own awards ceremony – the Community Awards. Designed to recognise excellence within social housing and the local community, the Aico | HomeLINK Community Awards have 11 different categories, all of which are now open to entries. John Appleton, Product Manager for Klik Lighting Connection at Hager, answers some of the most common questions about the company’s innovative 4 Pin and 7 Pin plug and socket lighting connection system – Klik. Neil Baldwin, Managing Director of electronic security specialist, ESP, looks at what is driving growth in the smart home market sector and how the launch of the company’s Fort Smart

Security Range is perfectly timed to provide installers with the means to easily tap into this lucrative revenue stream. B.E.G. has developed a new range of Bluetooth-controlled occupancy detectors and multi-sensors using state-of-the-art wireless technology from Casambi. Technological development drives our expectations for increasing performance from the electrical installations feeding our smart buildings, and Doepke’s DFS Audio has been specifically designed and manufactured for acoustic applications. There are many different control systems on the market, each generally targeting a different sector or methodology of installation. We all hear the different varieties thrown around, but Thomas Alt, Managing Director, Ready Controls and Stephen Payne from Eltako ask, what do these terms really mean and what are the benefits and limitations? I hope you find this supplement informative – see you next time!

Our next supplement will be published alongside the April issue and will focus on Electric Vehicle Charging. To get involved or for more information, please contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com

The editor and publishers do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors nor do they accept responsibility for any errors in the transmission of the subject matter in this publication. In all matters the editor’s decision is final. Editorial contributions to ECN are welcomed, and the editor reserves the right to alter or abridge text prior to the publication. Published monthly by All Things Media Ltd., Suite 14, 6-8 Revenge Road, Lordswood, Kent ME5 8UD. Tel: 01634 673163 Fax: 01634 673173 Overseas Subscription Rates: Europe £60.00; Rest of World £70.00 Copyright © 2022. All rights reserved. Printed by Micropress, Reydon Business Park Fountain Way, Reydon, Southwold, IP18 6SZ.

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CONTENTS… 4

xperience the latest in smart home E tech at AWE Expo

Aico announces official awards ceremony

Ask the expert — Klik

Pandemic boosts smart home market

Building controls — which way to go?

Green energy by the press of a button

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ew B.E.G. Bluetooth sensors hit N the high spots with advanced Casami wireless tech RCDs for premium sound systems

EDITOR: CARLY WILLS T: 01634 673163 E: carly@allthingsmedialtd.com

STUDIO: MARK WELLER T: 01634 673163 E: mark@allthingsmedialtd.com

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: BEATRICE LEE T: 01634 673163 E: beatrice@allthingsmedialtd.com

MANAGING DIRECTOR: DAVID KITCHENER T: 01634 673163 E: david@allthingsmedialtd.com

GROUP ADVERTISEMENT MANAGER: KELLY BYNE T: 01634 673163 E: kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com

ACCOUNTS T: 01634 673163 E: susan@allthingsmedialtd.com

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AWE

EXPERIENCE THE LATEST IN SMART HOME TECH AT AWE EXPO The AWE Smart Home Expo is back! AWE is a leading UK distributor to some of the highest quality brands for installation. This March, AWE invites you to see, hear and experience the latest technologies at AWE’s HQ in Epsom. Stuart Tickle, AWE’s Managing Director, explains why this Expo is a must for electrical contractors with an interest in installing home technology.

T The apartment features the Base Performance Simulators Blade Sim

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his will be AWE’s first Expo since 2019 and the company says it can’t wait to throw open the doors of its Epsom Smart Apartment HQ on 29th and 30th March. The smart home market is booming – there has never been a better time for electricians to benefit from this growing demand and offer it as a service. This in-person event will be the first place to see brand new product launches, along with AWE’s fully upgraded show apartment and cinema rooms. As a COVID-19 secure business, visitors can rest assured that the format will be managed to ensure compliance with any COVID-19 guidelines in existence at the time. The company says that it has the coolest and latest technology to show you, supported by representatives and talks from its industry leading brands. This will be the Expo debut of the unsurpassed range of CI and hi-fi loudspeakers from Bowers & Wilkins and immense amplification from Rotel, now both exclusively available to integrators via AWE.

Smart Buildings

Two fully refitted cinema rooms Stuart says that he is pretty sure that top of your list will be a demonstration in both of AWE’s completely revamped cinema rooms. The company has always set benchmarks for others to match, and its dedicated rooms have been fully refitted and reset expectations of what can be achieved at their price points. The AWE Reference Cinema – the audio in this clean and sophisticated space is insanely good, thanks to a combination of Bowers & Wilkins architectural loudspeakers and subwoofers driven by an immense stack of Rotel Power Amplifiers. Rich in power, dynamics and detail, the sound in this cinema is, quite simply, amazing. It blows away what was there before, and AWE has been told, the competition too – a bold claim that you need to validate by experiencing it yourself! AWE has fitted Bowers & Wilkins CI 800 Series Diamond speakers and Custom Theatre subwoofers in a 7.4.6 configuration – the most popular configuration for this size room. A Marantz Processor feeds into a stack of

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five Rotel Power Amplifiers housed in one of three Sanus 44U racks located in the adjacent comms room. Four cabinet subwoofers (CTSW15) with 15” bass drivers powered by additional dedicated amplification provide the heart-thumping bass that completes this high-performing and versatile loudspeaker set-up. This powerful, immersive audio system is matched by the incredible 4m wide HDR picture provided by a choice of Sony projectors, with the 10,000 lumen and 100% DCI-P3 wide colour gamut Sony VPL-GTZ380 Native 4k laser projector providing an image that once seen, can’t be unseen! It’s Sony’s flagship home cinema projector for a reason, so make sure you take a closer look at that, alongside the full range of native 4k lamp and laser models from Sony. AWE is also totally upgrading its smaller Performance Cinema as well, with the official unveiling being at AWE Expo. The brand new system here is a superb combination of Bowers & Wilkins 700 Series architectural loudspeakers and in-wall cabinet subwoofers, driven by a single 11-channel Marantz AV Amplifier and dedicated sub amps, all located in the

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27/01/2022 13:05

AWE What else will you see at Expo?

room – this room hits a sweet spot for CI cinema rooms. The company has fitted Epson’s recently launched EH-LS12000B projector, which features a high 2,500,000:1 dynamic contrast ratio, 4K resolution (8.3mil pixels on-screen), HDR10+ support, 3LCD and a laser light-source. It’s equally adept as a movie projector as it is for gaming, offering 4K resolution at 120 frames per second, along with input lag times below 20ms. Stuart says he is sure you’ll agree that it’s a projector that’s hard to beat for its price point. Both rooms feature URC for seamless control, and AWE collaborated with industry favourite, Cinema Build Systems on the aesthetic of the rooms. Cinema Build Systems worked with AWE to reimagine the Reference Cinema’s interior, equipping it with stunning new looks thanks to its Cinema Space Frame system, combined with Camira fabric walling and embedded colour-changing LED Light diffuser strips. The goal was to present industry leading performance in a stunning space, without the decor distracting from the core technology and experience.

Revamped show apartment The main show apartment has been substantially refitted, featuring loads of new tech too. A Sony 100” Pro Bravia screen can’t help but catch the eye and is a regular seller at the new low price point of just £13,999 SRP, which provides a serious alternative to UST projector solutions that works in all lighting conditions and has a better refresh rate. The study area features the latest Gallery OLED from LG, alongside the gorgeous Bowers & Wilkins 702 S2 floor standing speakers and Rotel amplification combo. The sound is simply sublime, and the gallery OLED is both appealing and discrete. The latest Sony 77” OLED TV has been fitted in the living room area but,

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investigate further and you will notice that the fabric surround is actually a custom designed surround housing three Bowers & Wilkins 7.2 LCR speakers and two IWS04 subwoofers. This is the Architect Frame and is being imported exclusively by AWE to provide integrators a stunning new option for a discrete high-performance speaker solution around a TV. The whole apartment is controlled by the latest URC MRX-30 processor and operated by a combination of URC TKP-8600 8” In-Wall Touchscreens and TRC-1480 2.4” Touchscreen LCD remote controls, both featuring integrated voice control. URC HDA Amps distribute up to eight sources across multiple zones (up to eight in stereo or 16 in mono) providing superb multi-room high-definition audio. Window shading options from Silent Gliss are on show in the apartment, both the signature Wave curtains and Smart system roller blinds. Representatives will be on hand to explain how AWE integrators are provided a full on-site design, consultation, and quote service completely free of charge. The nationwide installation and after sales support service is also all included within the quoted price with approved trade discounts, removing the risk and dedicated knowledge requirements from the integrator. The apartment also features the Base Performance Simulators Blade Sim – a custom-built, professional grade race simulator. The Precision Sim GPX Steering Wheel and professional steering motor from Simucube deliver the most realistic steering feel in simulation. For sound and vision, Blade is supplied with an on-board speaker system and headset plus a single 49” curved Samsung monitor with 120hz refresh rate, which creates a fully immersive driving experience. This is a simulator for those wanting an authentic simulator experience, and upgrade options in screens, audio and motion are available.

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Well, AWE will have the first showing anywhere of the brand new 4K and 8K screens for 2022 from Sony, LG and Panasonic, plus the UK premiere of a QD-OLED from Sony, a new panel technology recently unveiled at CES. This panel combines OLED with quantum dot technology for the highest colour purity and picture quality available to date. You can also check out the other Sony Master Series TVs, including the A90K OLED and Z9K Mini LED TV with upgraded Netflix-Calibrated mode, specially designed to ensure picture quality preservation according to the filmmaker’s vision and intent, no matter what the lighting conditions are. There will also be the chance to see the latest from Definitive Technology, together with amplifiers and receivers from Marantz and Denon, as well as multi-room audio products featuring Heos. Visitors will also get the opportunity to view the latest updates to the URC Total Control platform up close, with its new highly versatile and easy to program Accelerator 3 software, and entry level MRX-5 and premium MRX-30 processors, alongside other smart home solutions from Ring X-line. AWE will also be detailing a host of manufacturer presentations featuring key announcements soon, and will have special incentives and promotions for attendees, and its legendary AWE Spit Roast (with vegan options) at lunchtime! The AWE Smart Home Expo is the UK’s first event of 2022 where you can experience first-hand what’s new and exciting in the home technology industry. After what we’ve all been through these last two years, you’d be mad to miss it, and miss out! AWE, awe-europe.com

For more information and to register for your place, please visit aweeuro.pe/expo2022ecn.

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Smart Buildings

AWE says that it has the coolest and latest technology to show you

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The AWE Smart Home Expo is back! This in-person event will be the first place to see brand new product launches, along with AWE’s fully upgraded show apartment and cinema rooms. AWE will also be detailing a host of manufacturer presentations featuring key announcements and will have special incentives and promotions for attendees. Untitled-3 2

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SMART HOME AWE HQ, EPSOM 29th - 30th MARCH 2022 9am - 5pm

awe-europe.com See the latest from all of these market leading brands:

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27/01/2022 13:01

AICO

AICO ANNOUNCES OFFICIAL AWARDS CEREMONY Aico is delighted to announce the launch of its very own awards ceremony – the Community Awards.

esigned to recognise excellence within social housing and the local community, the Aico | HomeLINK Community Awards have 11 different categories, all of which are now open to entries, from College Initiative of the Year to the Rising Star Award, the Women in Fire Safety Award to the Best Distributor of the Year, including a Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative award.

Entries close on Thursday 31 March 2022 with finalists announced in early April, ahead of the awards ceremony taking place in May. The inaugural ceremony will be held at the International Convention Centre, Birmingham with host George Clarke, architect, and TV presenter, renowned in the industry. With an evening of celebration, recognition, and entertainment, the Aico | HomeLINK Community Awards will celebrate the achievements of inspirational individuals

and organisations working within social housing and the local community; innovating, demonstrating excellence, and putting people first. Managing Director, Neal Hooper, comments: “We are passionate about supporting the sector as well as our communities, and showcasing inspirational people, organisations and initiatives is a great way to champion excellence, share knowledge and collaborate in the creation of safer homes. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is such a crucial focus for Aico | HomeLINK, forming a key part of our ethos, which is also why we have launched these awards. It is vital that CSR is advocated, encouraging more involvement from people and organisations in supporting their local communities.” All colleagues are very excited about the inaugural Aico | HomeLINK Community Awards. Neal goes on to say: “We are very much looking forward to seeing all of the entries celebrating the achievements of inspirational individuals and organisations working within social housing and the local community; innovating, demonstrating excellence and putting people first.” To find out more about the Community Awards and to enter, please visit aico. co.uk/events/communityawards2022/ Aico, aico.co.uk

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Smart Buildings

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26/01/2022 16:21

The European Market Leader in Home Life Safety

RECOGNISING EXCELLENCE WITHIN SOCIAL HOUSING AND THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

THURSDAY 12TH MAY 2022 | INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION CENTRE BIRMINGHAM

The Community Awards by Aico|HomeLINK recognise the achievements of inspirational individuals and organisations working within the local community and social housing. Hosted by George Clarke, Architect and TV presenter, this spectacular awards ceremony will welcome over 300 people and finalists for an evening of celebration and entertainment.

In partnership with

Categories

College Initiative of the Year

Corporate Social Responsibility Initiative

Rising Star Award

Neighbourhood Transformation

Electrical Contractor of the Year

Resident Engagement

Inspirational Colleague of the Year

Lifetime Achievement Award

Sustainability Project of the Year

Women in Fire Safety Award

Best Distributor of the Year

To enter the Community Awards 2022, please email: marketing@aico.co.uk www.aico.co.uk | 01691 664100 | enquiries@aico.co.uk Aico Community Awards Advert.indd 1 Untitled-5 2

11/01/2022 13:40:55 21/01/2022 14:19

HAGER

ASK THE EXPERT — KLIK John Appleton, Product Manager for Klik Lighting Connection at Hager, answers some of the most common questions about the company’s innovative 4 Pin and 7 Pin plug and socket lighting connection system – Klik. The benefits of Klik’s connection and growing control range allow the installer to be confident in quoting for most types of project and lighting specification.

lik offers pre-wired or self-wired plugs, but with its factory tested pre-wired plugs, Klik is designed to save electrical contractors even more time by eliminating the chance of poor connection and allowing enough flexibility to adapt as a building or office space needs change. In addition, self-wired plugs provide a highly adaptable solution whenever systems need alteration. The Klik range includes Klik 4 and Klik 7 options, which provide fast and secure solutions to satisfy lighting designs for commercial premises. Both Klik 4 and Klik 7 ranges feature control products for local control, while Klik 7 can also provide additional system control. System control is via the Klik lighting control module (LCM) which can be easily commissioned via the KlikLink app. During installation or maintenance, luminaires can be simply plugged in or out in seconds, without the need for circuit isolation. Additionally, Klik 7 offers an enhanced range of lighting control for daylight linked dimming, intelligent occupancy sensing and DALI (digital addressable lighting interface) control requirements. The electromechanical connection solution achieves a simultaneous mechanical and electrical connection for complete peace of mind and allows individual light fittings to be removed or added without affecting other fittings on the circuit.

Can Klik only be used for on/off switching of standard luminaires? For Klik 4, yes this is true, but Klik 7 offers the ability for on/off control as well as full compatibility with DALI control solutions, making it ideal for the very latest lighting systems. If Hager doesn’t have the control products my customer specifies, can I still use Klik? Both Klik 4 and Klik 7 distributes either power or power/control signals to lighting systems and is compatible with most manufacturers’ control products. Hager can supply control products and wiring accessories from basic switching PIR sensors to DALI dimming sensors to intelligent lighting control systems. Can all of these be easily integrated with Klik? Due to its plug-in convenience and versatility, Klik can deliver total compatibility with all the systems mentioned. Can I safely unplug a luminaire at the Klik plug without isolating the circuit? Yes, the Klik plug provides safe on-load disconnection of luminaires without the requirement to isolate the circuit. With over 75% of lighting installations thought to be out-of-date and unable to meet current design standards, Klik 7 provides an energy efficient system that meets current BS product and installation standards and considers the usage and functionality required of a space by responding to daylight levels, as well as occupancy and footfall to reduce energy usage.

How can I set up Klik and control it once in use? Klik allows you to configure and control your lighting scheme exactly how you need it – the level of control available is up to the client, fully automatic with sensors, semi-automatic with additional wall switches, or even control via remote controls. Klik 7 also benefits from a lighting control module (LCM) which enables the control of an area with up to four different groups of outputs for switch and/or dimmable luminaires. Setting up the LCM is straightforward and can be achieved through the system’s programming app – KlikLink. It allows contractors or commissioning engineers to easily modulate the system for a variety of user preferences, including scene setting, light levels, daylight energy savings, dimming, partition switching, emergency test and now we even offer the ability to switch off Bluetooth used for commissioning as demanded in specification for more sensitive installations. It has been repeatedly installed in many sectors, such as education, public buildings and commercial buildings. Do I need a computer based or building control system to achieve the savings and deliver the functionality for a typical commercial lighting system? No, Klik 7 provides a fully scalable approach to lighting design and lighting control options. From simple absence/presence detection and light level or timing functions via occupancy sensors, no controller is required. For more sophisticated lighting control functions, Klik 7 solutions can be designed with Hager’s LCM controller which is integrated in the Klik 7 marshalling box. Klik 7 also provides an efficient power and control distribution solution, when used with other lighting controllers. This can also allow the lighting system to be standalone and not affected by any issues with a complete building management system which could suffer from internal or external influences. For more information about Klik, visit: hager.link/klik-lighting-connection Hager, hager.com/uk

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26/01/2022 16:22

Find out more hager.com/uk

Klik

Lighting Control Module Klik is our secure lighting connection and control system that brings plug-in convenience and versatility to lighting. It’s simple iPad Bluetooth smart interface makes modification a simple, rapid and accessible process, reducing time on site, meaning the end user is always left happy.

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Klik 7 Module Klik LCM enables the control of an area up to 4 different groups of outputs for switch and/or dimmable luminaires

Controlled Lighting Connect to up to 4 SELV occupancy sensors and up to 4 wall switch overrides to program features such as presence setting, light level offset and dimming

KlikLink app Programming is carried out via an iPad and uses Bluetooth to communicate with the LCM

26/01/2022 14:42

ESP

PANDEMIC BOOSTS SMART HOME MARKET Neil Baldwin, Managing Director of electronic security specialist, ESP, looks at what is driving growth in the smart home market sector and how the launch of the company’s Fort Smart Security Range is perfectly timed to provide installers with the means to easily tap into this lucrative revenue stream.

he most recent report from Mintel – UK The Connected Home Market Report 2021 – provides the most comprehensive and up-to-date information and analysis of the UK Connected Home market, including the behaviours, preferences and habits of the consumer. According to the report, the overall smart home market has been boosted by the lifestyle changes from COVID-19, with ownership of all connected home products increasing between March 2020 and March 2021. Older Millennials are expected to be key to the market’s long-term success as they are the most likely (66%) to say that spending time at home during COVID-19 has made them more likely to buy smart home devices. With a section of them intending to work from home in the long-term, this should help the overall connected home market. As the pandemic recedes, we are having to adapt to a new normal and it is highly likely that we will spend more time in our homes than we did before the pandemic, as a result of working from home more than we did pre-COVID. The perennial key drivers for smart home adoption – such as convenience, security and energy saving – will continue to exert their influence.

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Fort – the comprehensive smart security range As the rise in demand for smart home products continues, there is ample opportunity for installers to tap into this burgeoning sector. ESP launched its Fort Smart Security range towards the end of 2021 with the aim of providing installers with a comprehensive range of products that covers all aspects of smart home security. It is designed to be straightforward to install and operate and offers them an ideal opportunity to make the most of the huge rise in demand for smart home products that shows no sign of abating. Marketed under the brand name Fort, the complete range of smart security products includes intruder alarms, video doorbell, video security light, sensors and a selection of 1080p cameras, and they all operate under a single app – the ‘Click Smart+’ app. The app is completely subscription-free, with no additional fees incurred. By bringing the operation of the new Fort range under the well-established, tried and tested Click Smart+ app from Scolmore, users have control of a raft of connected home and security products all from one secure, easy to access platform. The Fort Smart Security range has been designed to bring simple, smart solutions together for a safer and more comfortable home. At the heart of the range is the smart intruder alarm, which will support up to 32 RF devices and provide remote monitoring and alert notifications directly to the Click Smart+ app. The smart alarm is available in handy kits or can be purchased as separate devices for a tailor-made system.

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There are six different kits in the range, with the basic kit containing one each of the following - a smart hub, PIR, door/window contact and remote control. Other kits offer an additional number of PIRs, door/window contacts and remote controls, and there are two kits which include Pet PIRs. All devices supplied within the kits are pre-registered, to assist with a straightforward install. Scolmore’s comprehensive range of Click Smart+ products is designed to simplify and streamline connected home products - lighting controls, smart sockets, security cameras and sensors. The range utilises Zigbee technology one of the most widely adopted smart home communication protocols. Click Smart+ comprises the Smart Gateway Hub (the control centre of all Zigbee connected devices), 1 and 2-gang smart sockets, plug-in smart socket, switching and dimming receivers, camera, PIR sensor, window, and door sensor, plus a temperature and humidity sensor.

Strong early demand ESP believes a key element to the early success of the Fort Smart Security range is its subscription-free app. Unlike some systems on the market which will provide a free basic system, but charge for additional devices and functions, users of the Fort smart security system will have full access to all devices and functions with no subscription fee or hidden costs to pay. The app provides an easy-to-use platform to remotely arm and disarm the system, whilst producing real time events such as activations and low battery indication status. In addition, the app supports a range of Click Smart+ home automation products which enables a range of sockets and switches to be activated in certain system scenarios. A brochure covering the full Fort range can be downloaded at espuk.com and from the Scolmore Group app. A video can be viewed at youtu.be/3vy3N1unvHI. ESP, espuk.com

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26/01/2022 16:22

leading wireless protocol to control your home

A SMARTER &

SAFER HOME

Utilise Click Smart+ and Fort to give you control and piece of mind over your home

by Click

by ESP

Devices can be controlled from anywhere using the Click Smart+ app or with Alexa and Hey Google.

www.click-smart.com

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11:37 26/01/2022 11:19

ELTAKO

BUILDING CONTROLS — WHICH WAY TO GO? There are many different control systems on the market, each generally targeting a different sector or methodology of installation. We all hear the different varieties thrown around, but Thomas Alt, Managing Director, Ready Controls and Stephen Payne from Eltako ask what do these terms really mean and what are the benefits and limitations?

Wired or wireless Wired systems need cabling to provide both power and control, whereas wireless does away with control cabling. However, of course, power cables are still needed for some devices. Wireless control removes the need for a large proportion of cabling and provides greater future flexibility and expansion. There are pros and cons to both. Wired has a perceived greater security and general reliability but has less flexibility and is harder to alter or expand later. Security is as good as any wired system – in both cases it depends on the strength of security required and the integrator.

Centralised system This is where all wiring is taken from one point and distributed to the field connections. There are benefits in the use of this type of solution, one being that it is futureproof, allowing change to controls at a later date. However, it’s limited by the extent of the wiring provided. Any future additions will most likely involve costly and inconvenient destructive works.

Decentralised system This is where all wiring is taken locally for control. In-line dimmers, switching units and controllers are fitted locally and utilise local wiring for control and power. In both, centralised and decentralised solutions can utilise wireless devices like switches, PIR’s, etc.

New build, prebuild modular and retrofit New build, prebuild modular and retrofit are as you would expect. New build is the application of a system in a new project. Prebuild modules are the same, but in an offsite prefabricated method. This has become a more popular approach due

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to what it can bring – energy reduction, material control and reduced deliveries, reduced number of personnel on a project and greater safety control – but building offsite in a controlled environment. Retrofitting is mainly seen in existing buildings where upgrades or alterations are required or there is a change in use. A key sector where this is often found in is assisted living, where an existing property is upgraded to suit the occupiers’ current needs. There are many systems that can achieve the different common methods discussed. However, there are not many that can do them all. There is a need for flexibility, especially when a building may have many changes of use over its lifetime, which highlights the need for wireless technologies and decentralised control to handle additions and changes. This is where the Eltako Series 14 comes in. Series 14 offers a wide variety of devices for centralised and decentralised control using integrated wireless communication, along with battery-free solutions using patented EnOcean energy harvesting technology. This allows a day one centralised or decentralised control system to be expanded and changes at any stage later its life. Ready Controls has used Eltako Series 14 for several projects in number of different applications:

Centralised lighting and blind control In a large high-end property in Hertfordshire, Ready Controls utilised central controllers for lighting dimming, switching and blind controllers integrated into a Nomos smart IoT server for app based control.

Decentralised retrofit lighting control On a large project made up of more than 30, two and three storey houses outside Belfast, Ready Controls utilised

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the existing conventional wiring to upgrade the system into a smart control system. Local dimmers were mounted in the back boxes of existing switches and the old conventional switches were changed out for wireless ones. All were integrated into a smart IoT server for app-based control.

Modular offsite build For another project in Northern Ireland, Ready Controls utilised the Eltako Series 14 along with wireless switches in a centralised, fully offsite prefabricated and pre-programed way. The completed panels were used to control the dimming and switching of lighting, in addition to heating control. Panels were designed, built, and programmed off site and delivered ready to install and operate.

Assisted living In a mix of all the above, Ready Controls utilised centralised, decentralised, prebuild, wireless, wired, and on-site adaptions for a retrofit apartment in London, upgraded to suit the needs of its new occupier. The company used an offsite prefabricated panel utilising Eltako Series 14 controls for lighting, blinds and heating control. Wireless switches were used for local lighting and blind control, in addition to Alexa voice-based control and app control provided by Eltako’s new MiniSafe2 server. Thomas Alt, Managing Director of Ready Controls, says: “Eltako’s Series 14 products are a fundamental part of our projects. Their flexibility, reliability and vast range makes them suitable for any ‘day one’ application and they provide the assurance that any future needs can be easily met from the extensive and growing product range.” Eltako, eltako.com

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26/01/2022 16:23

ENOCEAN

GREEN ENERGY BY THE PRESS OF A BUTTON Controlling light, music or heat with an app or voice is fascinating. But it is often the simple things that help us the most in everyday life – and ingenious technologies bring even more comfort into our homes. For example, a switch that can communicate wirelessly with lights, the stereo system or household appliances without needing cables or batteries. The finger press of a button is the only energy source it requires. The ‘Battery-free by EnOcean’ seal identifies such battery-free switches.

With its battery-free wireless technology, EnOcean has found a greener way to win energy

eaching for the smartphone has become part of our everyday lives – not only to make phone calls or write messages. In many people’s homes it is also a remote control for light and light scenes – new LED technologies with radio communication make this possible. However, you don’t always have your hands free or the time to pull your smartphone out of your pocket, open the app and select the right light. The familiar light switch is and remains the most convenient and quickest way to switch on the light. A wireless switch can communicate with modern luminaires just like the smartphone. At the same time, it is always quickly at hand and can be flexibly positioned. The disadvantage of this solution: most radio switches draw their energy from batteries. These are often empty at the most inconvenient times. As soon as the battery compartment is open, the search for a suitable replacement battery begins, which is seldom immediately at hand. All of a sudden, the wireless switch is no longer the convenient alternative to the smartphone, but causes annoying

maintenance work instead. In addition, batteries contain toxic substances and must be disposed of as hazardous waste. The degradation of lithium and the heavy metals contained in batteries, such as cadmium or nickel, pollute the environment just as much as their disposal. Batteries are a major environmental problem, and with more and more battery-powered devices, the mountain of waste continues to grow.

100% battery-free With its battery-free wireless technology, EnOcean has found a greener way to win energy. Thanks to energy harvesting, wireless switches can ‘harvest’ their energy from the immediate environment. They use the kinetic energy from the press of a button as the energy source. As soon as the user presses the button, an electromechanical energy converter inside the switch is activated. One huge advantage that self-powered switches have over wired and battery-powered alternatives is the great flexibility that comes with them. Users can simply put the switch wherever they need it – on the wall, on the living room table, by the bed etc. It is also 100% battery-free, so ready for use at any time. The seal ‘Battery-free by EnOcean’ marks such battery-free switches. Thus, the private user can deliberately choose a maintenance-free and environmentally friendly product. At the same time, the seal stands for EnOcean’s market-leading battery-free wireless technology which guarantees quality and durability.

Versatile use There are many possible uses for a battery-free switch. As a ‘central ON/OFF switch’, for example, the user can use it to switch off all consumers when leaving the house. Likewise, a battery-free switch can turn lights on and off, dim lamps or raise and lower blinds.

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Eltako is a ‘Battery-free by EnOcean’ programme partner The company Eltako also makes use of the advantages of a battery-free radio switch. As its switches are based on EnOcean’s battery-free wireless technology, they require neither batteries nor cables. Eltako has been a partner of the ‘Battery-free by EnOcean’ programme since day one and has battery-free radio switches available in different colours and designs, so there is a suitable solution for every taste and interior design. In addition, they can be combined with existing switches and sockets of the same brand because they fit into the respective single and multiple wall frames. Smart light switches, therefore, offer easy-to-understand control options and allow access to all features.

Battery-free switches for the IoT The battery-free wireless switch can also be a central element in the Internet of Things (IoT). As part of an IoT network, together with self-powered wireless sensors, it provides important data for the intelligent control and digitalisation of buildings. This is where the EnOcean wireless standard comes into play, which is optimised for communication in buildings with its reliability and long range. Whether for the right light or the right song in your own home, whether for the maintenance-free control of LED lighting systems or of shading and light in the office building – a battery-free radio switch makes everything possible with a click, without ever having to replace a single battery. EnOcean, enocean.com

Smart Buildings

February 2022 | 15

26/01/2022 16:23

B.E.G.

NEW B.E.G. BLUETOOTH-CONTROLLED SENSORS HIT THE HIGH SPOTS WITH ADVANCED CASAMBI WIRELESS TECH B.E.G. has developed a new range of Bluetooth-controlled occupancy detectors and multi-sensors using state-of-the-art wireless technology from Casambi.

he global manufacturer’s new PD4-CAS-GH models use the Finnish brand’s energy-efficient app based on Bluetooth Low Energy that its engineers developed at the Nokia Research Centre in Finland. The new B.E.G. range is connected via a 230-volt power supply and provides electrical contractors with an intelligent, wireless extension to existing or brand new DALI-controlled lighting systems via the Casambi app. Casambi is an open and smart lighting control system and app which make it easy for end users to control lighting in any space. The wireless tech firm’s solution uses low power radio technology and is used for applications which need

B.E.G.

to exchange large amounts of data. This means that Bluetooth Low Energy is more energy-efficient without consuming battery-life, meaning the hardware lasts for longer. The Casambi app works as one of the user interfaces, the commissioning tool and as well as a remote gateway. It works with iOS as well as Android devices, including smartphones, tablets and smartwatches and free to download by any end-user. The new B.E.G. sensors are ideal for high ceilings in warehouses, for example, long corridors, and large halls. This is due to its telescopic light sensor which can be pulled out with the measuring range optimised for an installation height of up to 16 metres. Together with the adjustable

parameters, this ensures reliable and energy-efficient constant light control. The oval detection area is optimally designed for use in long aisles and has a diameter of 30m in longitudinal direction even for frontal movements, creating safety and comfort for hall users. The PD4-CAS-GH DALI-2 model has an integrated DALI-2 power supply to which DALI control gear can be directly connected, and is certified by the DALI Alliance. The luminaires can be logically networked with each other, with no need for a physical connection via the DALI bus. The PD4-CAS-GH model offers the same functionality but without a DALI-2 power supply. B.E.G., beg-luxomat.com

LUXOMAT ® net

DALI-LINK LARGE OFFICE SOLUTION ■ Addressable multi-master Lighting Control System

DALI Power supply

DALI Multisensor

DALI push-button module

PS-DALI-LINK-FC Part no. 92846

PD4N-DALI-LINK Part no. 93377

PBM-DALI-LINK-4W-BLE Part no. 92732

■ Supports DALI and DALI-2 luminaires ■ Ideal for retrofitting ■ Super flat multisensor available ■ Simple, intuitive operation ■ Free Bluetooth app with 2 functions: - Scene control for end customer - Commissioning tool for installers m 2.5 0 1

0870 850 5412

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info@beguk.co.uk

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på tværs 452m� walking across

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beg-luxomat.com

26/01/2022 16:24

Professional Programme

Making neighbourhoods safer. Since our founding in 2013, we have been on a mission to make neighbourhoods safer and we believe that stronger communities are the key to building safer neighbourhoods. That’s why we’re driven to create products that help our customers protect what matters most at home and empower them to connect with their neighbours from wherever they are.

Discover Ring Professional Programme Ring Professional Programme is a freeto-join programme specially designed to educate professional installers on Ring’s range of whole-home security products, how to install them, and the benefits for your customers. To find out more about the programme, how to join, and Ring’s range of products and services, visit: ring.com/professionalprogramme

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14:37 25/01/2022 11:33

CREATE SMARTER HOMES Offer your clients the latest in building control solutions.

Get started with our FREE online KNX Ta s t e r c o u r s e

Call: 0191 497 07 7 7

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Email: knx@myknxstore.co.uk

Web: www.myknxstore.co.uk

21/01/2022 14:21

WHOLESALE TRAINING SUPPORT

KNX is a global building control system that allows all building functions to be controlled within one user-friendly platform. At the heart of KNX is a robust, scalable and customisable system.

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LIGHTING

O CC U PA N CY

BLINDS

SECURITY

H E AT I N G

ENERGY

21/01/2022 14:21

DOEPKE

RCDS FOR PREMIUM SOUND SYSTEMS Technological development drives our expectations for increasing performance from the electrical installations feeding our smart buildings.

P The DFS Audio has been specifically designed and manufactured for acoustic applications

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urchasers of high-end audio systems take sound quality seriously – the trained ear of a sound expert can detect the slightest audio aberrations, even those that can hardly be measured with technical instruments. These investors in high-end audio equipment notice interference or loss of sound quality in their systems when they use standard RCDs in circuit. The design of conventional RCDs affects sound quality due to the size and material used in the main terminal connections and contacts, use of standard current transformer designs which result in interference or loss of sound quality to the trained musical ear. We are not talking about off-the-shelf sound systems costing up to a few thousand pounds.

Customer requirements

Technology and applications

These are people with excellent hearing requiring high-quality audio systems and installations, for professional or pleasure, and a desire for a ‘pure’ musical experience – they require a decent mains power supply to feed their equipment. These users have identified that conventional RCDs used in circuit interfere with the sound quality. This led to the development of DFS Audio RCCB. The DFS Audio has been peer reviewed: “I never imagined that an RCCB could have such an impact on the sound” – Michael Helmke, electrician and audiophile. “This accessory improves the performance of a sound system so much that I can only think of one drawback – once you’ve installed it, you can never live without it again” – Jorge G., Audio & Cinema em Casa magazine, Portugal.

The DFS Audio has been specifically designed and manufactured for acoustic applications. It features high quality components such as silver-plated connection terminals, large switching contacts and solid, silver-plated internal conductors made of high-purity, low-oxygen copper and specifically designed residual current detection system. All of these elements work together to ensure an unrestricted flow of current. These impressive features of the DFS Audio have caught the attention of a group of individuals who have high purchasing power, specifically related to the audio market. The DFS Audio reliably protects people and electrical installations from dangerous residual currents and prevents loss of sound quality in domestic systems and professional settings, such as theatres, cinemas and concert venues. Doepke, doepke.co.uk

26/01/2022 16:25

Occupancy and daylight sensors for wireless meshing ecosystems Casambi

Mymesh

Ingy

Wirepas

IQRF

Silvair

Ideal for the energy saving automatic control of lighting and other loads

DANLERS Ecosystem Controls

DANLERS Limited, DANLERS Business Centre, Vincients Road, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 6NQ, UK T: +44 (0)1249 443377

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E: sales@danlers.co.uk

www.danlers.co.uk

26/02/2021 11:55

ECN Smart Buildings Supplement 2022

Articles inside

Green energy by the press of a button

Pandemic boosts smart home market

Building controls — which way to go?

Aico announces official awards ceremony