ECN Wiring Accessories Supplement 2024

WIRING ACCESSORIES PRODUCT OF THE YEAR

The Wiring Accessories Product of the Year award can be entered by either a manufacturer or distributor who has released a wiring accessory or significantly updated an existing product during the qualifying period.

A representative, such as a PR company, may also enter their client. What

Why should an electrical contractor choose your wiring accessory?

• Safety: Can you demonstrate the safety of your product? Is it fully compliant with all of the necessary regulations? What makes it the safer choice over competitor products?

• Ease of installation and innovation: How easy is your product to install? How innovative is it and what makes it stand out from the rest?

• Design: What outstanding design features does your wiring accessory have?

• Other: Is there anything else that helps your wiring accessory stand out?

Deadline for entries: 13 September 2024

Enter now at: electricalcontractingnews.com/ wiring-accessories-product-of-the-year

Hello and welcome to ECN’s Wiring Accessories Supplement 2024! In this supplement, the industry’s leading companies explore the latest innovations in the field of wiring accessories. From switches and sockets to outdoor connections and beyond, this supplement aims to provide valuable insights and information for professionals in the electrical industry.

Scolmore Group looks at ways professional installers can bring power to the outdoors to create a safer, brighter and more welcoming recreational space, and Contactum reveals details of its new 13A USB A+C Switched Sockets.

Niglon and Eurolite both give an overview of their companies and the products they have to offer; Selectric introduces its GRID360 Kinetic range; and thanks to Knightbridge’s new wall charger, laptops and other power-hungry devices can now be USB-charged directly from the socket.

Plus, find out more about the ECN Awards 2024 – see the 23 awards that are up for grabs, along with all of the key information about the event.

I hope you find this supplement informative. See you next time!

be published alongside the August issue and will focus on Skills – Regulation, Legislation & Training. To get involved, or for more information, please contact Kelly Byne at kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com.

01634

01634 673163

E: simon@allthingsmedialtd.com

01634 673163 E: kelly@allthingsmedialtd.com

GETTING CONNECTED OUTDOORS

As the summer approaches and the focus for homeowners is on their outdoor space, Katie Plumstead, Group Marketing Manager, Scolmore Group, looks at ways professional installers can bring power to the outdoors to create a safer, brighter and more welcoming recreational space.

Whatever outdoor project is being planned, the advice is always to make sure a reputable professional is engaged to ensure that any work is carried out safely and meets all the required regulations. This is where professional electricians come to their own, with the necessary skills and knowledge to advise their customers on how best to bring power to the outdoors and to upgrade or improve existing lighting installations.

Across the Scolmore Group there is an array of products that installers can call on to provide power and security protection to enhance their customers’ outdoor spaces.

Watertight solution

Power can be brought safely to sheds, office spaces, heating, and hot tubs, with the Aquip66 range of IP66-rated, easy-to-install 10A and 20A weatherproof outdoor switches and sockets.

The IP66-rated weatherproof socket and switch enclosures offer users a single fix installation – with the whole of the back box fixed to the wall to accommodate the socket or modules. Multiple knock-outs on each side (20mm) allow for entry from all angles, and a flexible rubber base with rear entry gasket provides extra weatherproof protection, as well as allowing for mounting on most types of uneven surfaces.

The range includes one and two gang switch enclosures which utilise MiniGrid

single width switch modules which are rated at 10A, as well as one and two gang switches that utilise the GridPro range of modules and offer 20A switching options. A 13A switched fused connection unit is also available with a semi-transparent cover with neon power indicator, as well as with a standard cover.

The polycarbonate construction makes this a durable and long lasting, heavy-duty range. All switch products are of modular construction allowing the installer total flexibility in designing customised switching solutions according to on-site requirements.

The right connection

Providing a strong, quick and reliable solution when working with cables and power outdoors is Unicrimp’s Q-NECT IP66 Weatherproof Junction Box. Designed to make installations more efficient, it can house four of the three Port Lever Connectors using the 360° detachable cradle. It features a curved lid, which provides additional space for wires. The lid is locked using quarter turn fasteners.

There are 10 membrane entry points, and protection against moisture and dust is enhanced with the self-sealing membranes which provide a faster and more secure cable entry whilst, at the same time, maintaining the IP66 rating.

The IP Box gives you the option to fix directly to a wall using four screws into the pre-moulded holes in the base. Alternatively, use the detachable wall clip which requires just two screws. It also provides the option of using up to eight M20 cable glands. The M20 threaded entries with membrane ensure the IP rating is maintained without the use of tools or locknuts.

These junction boxes with semi-transparent lids are available in a black or anthracite grey finish, with the anthracite grey colour option designed to match the Click Aquip66 weatherproof socket and switch enclosures, which are also available with the same semi-transparent lids.

Smart control outdoors

With power brought to the outdoor spaces, Scolmore’s Click Smart+ range will allow remote control of any electrical elements outside – switching on lighting, controlling an outdoor appliance or sprinklers, or the ability to switch off power for security.

The Click Smart+ range has been created to simplify and streamline connected home products – lighting controls, smart sockets, security cameras and sensors. It utilises Zigbee technology – one of the most widely adopted smart home communication protocols. Zigbee certified devices require the Click Smart+ Hub and communicate with each other using a mesh network. This creates multiple pathways for the connection of multiple smart home devices without compromising signal and communication range.

Installation is simple and flexible, with no additional cables or wall cutting required, making it ideal for existing or newly constructed buildings.

The bespoke Click Smart+ app gives householders ultimate control of the smart devices, which can also be operated through voice control in conjunction with a smart speaker.

Click Smart+ sockets, including the smart fused connection unit, can also be incorporated into the Aquip weatherproof enclosures to safely bring smart technology to the outdoors.

Part of the Click Smart+ range is a Smart Socket Outlet Kit which brings together all the essential components for outdoor installation. The kit includes a smart hub, four Mode 13A two gang Zigbee smart sockets and an Aquip IP66 weatherproof enclosure.

Unicrimp’s Q-NECT IP66 Weatherproof Junction Box is designed to make installations more efficient

The Click Smart+ range has been created to simplify and streamline connected home products

Smart security

Working alongside Click Smart+ is the Fort range of smart security products from Scolmore Group company, ESP. The range includes intruder alarms, video doorbell, video security light, sensors, and a selection of 1080p cameras. They all operate under the Click Smart+ app –which is completely subscription-free, with no additional fees incurred. By bringing the operation of the Fort range under the Click Smart+ app from Scolmore, users will have control of a raft of connected home and security products all from one secure, easy to access platform.

Lighting the way

When it comes to lighting solutions for the garden, it is worth considering the main functions that are required. These could include accessibility, highlighting of particular areas of the garden, security and aesthetics. Ovia has a raft of lighting solutions for the outdoors, including the recent addition of a solar powered security light, plus the Pathfinder LED floodlights which are an ideal way to provide ambient lighting around the garden – lighting up walkways and driveways, as well as highlighting architectural features when used as an up-lighter.

With power and lighting in the garden all under control, full advantage of its benefits can be taken all year round.

Scolmore, scolmore.com

All decorative switch plates are modular as standard.

This allows you to create virtually any switch plate you require. The MiniGrid® modules are all easily and quickly exchanged or mounted onto unfurnished plates.

UPGRADE YOUR CHARGING SOLUTIONS WITH CONTACTUM

Contactum is excited to introduce the new 13A USB A+C Switched Sockets, designed to meet the demands of modern living with a rating of up to 4.8A.

Contactum’s new innovative sockets combine the convenience of traditional power outlets with the versatility of USB charging ports, providing a seamless solution for all your charging needs.

The 13A USB A+C Switched Sockets are equipped with both Type-A and Type-C USB ports, allowing you to charge multiple devices simultaneously without the need for bulky adapters. With a total output of up to 4.8A, these sockets can quickly and efficiently charge smartphones, tablets, laptops and other USB-powered devices.

Engineered with safety and performance in mind, the Contactum 13A USB A+C Switched Sockets feature robust construction and high-quality materials. The sockets are designed to fit seamlessly into any standard 35mm flushed metal box, making them an ideal upgrade for homes, offices and commercial spaces. The sleek, modern design ensures they blend effortlessly with any decor, while the integrated switches provide added convenience and control.

Key features of the Contactum 13A USB A+C Switched Sockets include:

• Dual USB ports: One Type-A and one Type-C port to accommodate a wide range of devices.

• Tested to requirements

BS1363-2:2016+A1:2018

• Round, square and screwless profiles

• Made from high grade stainless steel

• Lacquered to reduce fingerprint marks

• Manufactured in the UK

In addition to this offer, all Contactum wiring accessories are now wrapped in the company’s all-new FSC-certified wiring accessories packaging.

This development marks a significant milestone in Contactum’s ongoing commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility. By adopting FSC-certified materials, Contactum ensures that the paper and cardboard used in its packaging are sourced from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social and economic benefits. This initiative reflects the company’s dedication to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting sustainable practices across all aspects of its operations in line with ISO 14001.

The new packaging is not only a testament to Contactum’s environmental stewardship but also a strategic move to enhance the overall customer experience. Designed with both aesthetics and functionality in mind, the packaging provides maximum protection from the manufacturing process to installation, ensuring the products arrive in perfect condition. This focus on safeguarding underscores Contactum’s commitment to quality and innovation.

Upgrade your charging solutions with the Contactum 13A USB A+C Switched Sockets, and experience the perfect blend of functionality, style and efficiency. Whether at home or in the workplace, these sockets provide the reliable power and versatility you need to stay connected and powered up. Available in three ranges featuring four stylish finishes:

• iConic – square modern profile, 4.5mm depth plate

• Reflect – sleek curved edge profile, 9mm depth plate

• Screwless Lyric – screwless easy clip profile, 6mm depth plate

Contactum, contactum.co.uk

13A USB A+C sockets up to 4.8A rating

Tested to requirements

BS1363-2:2016+A1:2018

Round, square and screwless profiles

Lacquered

Manufactured in the UK

Screwless Lyric - Brushed Brass (BB)

Screwless Lyric - Brushed Brass (BB)

iConic - Brushed Steel (BS)

iConic - Brushed Steel (BS)

NIGLON AND WIRING ACCESSORIES — A FAIT ACCOMPLI

Niglon is a fourth-generation family owned and run firm with purpose-built headquarters in the Midlands. Incorporated in 1966 but tracing its roots back to 1940s Birmingham, the company now has an extensive array of over 4,500 products across nine core categories – an incredible offering.

Niglon’s product range now encompasses: circuit protection, wiring accessories, installation essentials, cable management, control and automation, industrial accessories, earthing, lighting control, and fixings and tools. Almost everything an electrician might need in fact, day to day.

When you think of Niglon, it may be items such as plugtop fuses and connector strips which come to mind. However, over the last few years particular focus and energy has been put into refining and expanding the range of wiring accessory products. In a fiercely competitive market, it is important to continually update and finesse products within this category to ensure the company remains ahead of the curve and continues to provide what customers want.

There are now more than 1000 products across 10 ranges to choose from.

The company’s Operations Director, Oliver Hinley, explains, “Continual development of this range whilst maintaining a high-quality product is key for us. This makes perfect sense for the wholesalers we supply and their contractor customers; they save time and effort by being able to source their wiring accessories from one place, without having to pay over and above for the privilege.”

Niglon started selling wiring accessories over 20 years ago but really advanced the offering from 2017 onwards, when the team launched seven new ranges in two years. This necessitated significant investment in systems and development tooling to bring this to fruition.

Premium Edge S: A real advancement

Recent activity has seen the relaunch of the Premium Edge S brand, with the addition of matt black and antique brass plate finishes. These now sit in addition to the brushed and polished chrome options already available and act as the company’s prime screwed-plate offering.

All options come with metal-tometal rockers, LED indicators, modular switches, and a fixed edging gasket. The latter feature is particularly ingenious as it prevents wet plaster from soiling the stainless faceplate, and aids on the installation of uneven walls. This range is backed with a 20-year guarantee and sales are gaining increasing traction, as Niglon establishes itself as a trusted supplier of decorative wiring accessories.

Specifically, the new plate options allow for increased customer choice and seem especially popular at the moment within the trade – demonstrating that Niglon can quickly react and provide an offering tailored to the wants of the market it serves. Fashions come and go, and one way of changing the feel and look of a room when decorating is to switch (pardon the pun) out the existing wiring accessory range for something new. In this way the décor can be completely transformed with relatively little cost or timely adaptation involved. It is often the go-to option for these reasons.

Future developments in the coming months include the addition of super-fast USB C type chargers, including both 4.8A

and 45W varieties. These will complement the existing A and C type chargers, and are product additions deemed necessary to provide a strong offering fit for modern-day needs.

Median: The dependable stalwart

Median is manufactured using quality electrical components and materials, backed up with a 20-year guarantee (except electronic components, which still have a two year guarantee), giving customers the confidence that these switches and sockets will stand the test of time. The range has been tested and deemed to pass BS1363 by a reputable and independent third-party test house with a global reach, called Intertek. This gives wholesalers and installers alike confidence to buy the product in the safe knowledge that it has undergone checks and inspections not only by the factory, but also by an organisation that is impartial and independent from Niglon. Moreover, all 10AX light switches are constructed using a highly adaptable modular single screw fixing, allowing reconfiguration on site without the need for a full grid system. This saves the electrician time on site and provides terrific flexibility. Additions to the range over recent years (including, for instance, a fan switch module) mean most adaptations can now be fully handled. Finally, the Median range is made

from a high-grade Urea. This material has inherent antimicrobial properties, helping to stop the spread of bacteria such as MRSA, E.Coli, Salmonella and Klebsiella Pneumonia. Niglon has gone so far as to have its products lab-tested and can provide these results upon request. This means customers will have proof of what microbes struggle to survive on the Median product, and the effective ‘kill rates’ or efficacy of the same. For further details please contact Niglon.

Following market research and customer feedback, in 2024 Niglon decided to go further and introduce into its Median and Arctic ranges, a switched socket offering (single and double pole) which now features the BSI Kitemark. This is for customers who are looking for additional peace of mind with regards to Quality Control processes in place, and it is also envisaged this may open up greater specification opportunities for the company. Please your sales representative for further details.

The Perfect 10

White Moulded

• Profile: A 4mm, low-profile white moulded plate with screw covers and a sleek, contemporary design. A modern range of smooth-edged, moulded wiring accessories perfect for newbuild residential or commercial use.

• Median: The soft-edged plates feature interchangeable switch modules with a one screw fixing. Introduced to the market in 2020, it’s the complete solution for all jobs – clean, simple and designed to complement all interiors. It is Niglon’s fastest growing range.

• Artic Edge: A classic, bright white moulded, square-edge wiring accessories range offering traditional design values for new or existing installations.

• Ceiling Accessories: A competitive selection of ‘bread and butter’ pendants, batten holders and ceiling roses, focused on the refurbishment and newbuild market.

Decorative Metal

• Ultima: Installed in homes, hotels and commercial buildings across the length and breadth of the UK, Ultima, with its screwless plate design, is Niglon’s flagship range. The products come in a luxurious brushed or polished chrome effect finish and are manufactured with stainless steel faceplates with a huge selection of features.

• Premium Edge S: Contemporary, low-profile, stainless steel plate with a luxurious brushed chrome effect finish. Sophisticated – the Premium Edge S products easily meet the demands of the most discerning clients. Designed to enhance other room features and perfectly complete any décor.

Grid/Euro Media

• Euro Media: Developed to enable bespoke configurations, Euro Media allows integration of television, data and USB charging points. Can be clipped into unfurnished faceplates quickly and easily.

• Matrix 20: A comprehensive grid range offering a myriad of combinations. Interchangeable printed switched rocker covers enable easy on-site configuration with a modular approach offering installers plenty of flexibility. The faceplates coordinate with Niglon’s Ultima, Premium Edge, Premium Edge S, Profile and Metallic ranges.

Commercial/Outdoors

• Metallic: Designed for more demanding surroundings such as workshops, garages and light industrial units –metal-clad products are manufactured from heavy-duty steel and finished in satin silver.

• Hurricane: Weather-resistant switches and sockets for even tougher environments, providing protection against dust and water ingress –meaning Hurricane products are ideal for outdoor use.

Quality and safety

There are many factors which come into play when selecting products to use or stock – with functionality, aesthetics and cost all impacting the decision. But the Niglon team firmly believes none of these should come at the expense of the quality and safety of the product itself. Oliver explains, “The idea was to introduce high specification ranges at a price which both offered value and generated confidence in the quality of design and manufacturing. So, we were giving customers a comprehensive set of products which cater for a vast array of differing installations, aesthetic tastes and budgets.”

Niglon is so confident that it offers product guarantees of 10 years on the Hurricane weatherproof range, 20 years on the majority of its ranges, and an incredible 30 years on Median, Profile and Arctic products. Part of the reason Niglon is able to offer impressive guarantees and assure customers of the quality of its products is that the wiring accessory ranges are third-party tested.

It’s something the company is committed to – and has been urging the entire industry to adopt independent testing as standard. With risks from minor inconvenience and property damage right up to risk to life should a product fail, the company ethos is that third-party testing must be introduced as standard across the electrical industry, and that everyone from suppliers right through to the end users needs to take responsibility for asking for proof of certification.

About Niglon

The Niglon team is committed to serving the wholesaler and being an effective one-stop shop, thereby negating the need for customers to spend time and effort sourcing from multiple suppliers. By reducing the hassle of using several sources at the point of order and throughout the entire process, including management of delivery and invoice processing, Niglon provides a truly value-added service to the supply and distribution of electrical components.

The company originally operated under the name S D Hinley from the 1940s onwards before changing its name to Niglon in the 1960s. The team has significantly increased stock to maximise availability, and has thousands of lines covering circuit protection, wiring accessories, industrial accessories, and many other must-haves for electrical contractors. The company combines traditional values with a truly modern approach to distributing electrical products, investing heavily in order fulfilment systems and R&D, while expanding its offering to ensure it has a solution to suit every customer. This now includes bespoke options where required. New product lines are added regularly –meeting the needs of over 2000 branch customers up and down the country.

Niglon, niglon.co.uk

A new range of switches & sockets featuring a contemporary low-profile design, manufactured with stainless steel faceplates, available in four luxurious finishes.

• Low Profile Design 4.5mm

• Stainless Steel Plate

• Four great plate finish options

• Metal To Metal Rockers

• Matrix20 Compatible

Contact your Niglon Area Sales Manager for further details

WIRING ACCESSORIES

Brushed Chrome Polished Chrome Antique Brass Matt Black

SPOTLIGHT ON EUROLITE

Since 1998, Eurolite Wiring Accessories has been a leading developer and distributor of high-quality decorative wiring accessories. The Eurolite brand has grown from strength to strength, offering customers the support of in-house product and marketing teams, helping to supply a range of catalogues, flyers and other literature and data sheets to aid customers. A sales and merchandising team helps keep Eurolite in the eye of the customer, ensuring displays are up-to-date and visually appealing.

The company’s mission is to offer its customers the best quality and service available

Eurolite prides itself on friendly, knowledgeable customer service and next day delivery on all orders. The company’s in-house assembly team makes bespoke products for same day dispatch, and Eurolite is focused on the design, sourcing, marketing and distribution of branded building products.

Eurolite, a division of Carlisle Brass (part of ASSA ABLOY), is a renowned designer, manufacturer and distributor of architectural ironmongery. It is the parent company of distinguished brands such as Serozzetta, Eurospec, Manital, and the newly launched Alexander & Wilks. The company’s mission is to offer its customers the best quality and service available. It strives every day to meet its customer’s requirements, so that they, in turn, can meet deadlines and completion dates.

Concealed 3mm ranges

Recently Eurolite launched the Media Plate – sure to be an essential for any renovation, newbuild or major upgrade. The Media Plate is compatible with a range of modular inserts, configured to suit your requirements, and it allows for power and signal distribution from one easy-access combined area.

Eurolite has also been thrilled with its range of pull cords, available in six wonderful finishes including antique brass, matt black, polished brass,

polished chrome, satin brass and stainless steel. You can match the finishes to Eurolite’s Enhance Decorative and Concealed 3mm ranges.

Eurolite ranges and finishes

Offering ranges to suit any home or commercial space, Eurolite offers four main ranges; Enhance, Concealed, Stainless Steel and Utility.

• Enhance Decorative: Raised rounded edge products, designed to give a contemporary look, featuring five plate finishes to suit all styles.

• Enhance White Plastic: A range of white plastic wiring accessories to complement the existing Enhance products, allowing you to buy everything in one place.

• Concealed: Designed for use in modern, contemporary, domestic and commercial environments, with a range of finishes available, including; antique brass, black nickel, matt black, satin brass, polished chrome, stainless steel and white.

• Stainless Steel: A comprehensive choice of design and colour, incorporating Crabtree components. There are multiple combinations of finish, grid and inserts on offer. Take your pick from; black nickel and satin brass to stainless steel and antique brass.

• Utility: A heavy-duty range of switches and sockets ideal for use in industry, commercial and the home. This range has a tough, durable finish which is resistant to premature ageing, discolouration and corrosion.

• Utility: Weatherproof: An outdoor collection with features such as IP66 rated level of protection, hinged and lockable covers and multiple knock outs for easy entry points.

• Utility: Floor Sockets: 13A unswitched floor socket with a spring-loaded cover ideal for hotels and offices.

You can keep up-to-date with all things Eurolite via the company’s LinkedIn page, from meeting the team, new product releases, award nominations, and charitable work.

The company is always looking at its tagged posts on Instagram to see the room glow-ups and renovations people have captured using Eurolite products – the company says there’s nothing more rewarding than seeing a beautiful kitchen, bedroom or bathroom with its wiring accessories adding those finishing touches.

Sales Associate spotlight

Liz Gibson has been with the Carlisle Brass family for over six years, finding her calling with Eurolite Wiring Accessories in April 2021. Having led the Customer Service Team at Carlisle Brass, Liz’s priority is, first and foremost, the customer.

A mainstay in the office, Liz also ventures out to visit customers, which she absolutely loves. She always has an opinion – which is always listened to - regarding new products, what’s working and where the company should be headed.

Liz is a wealth of knowledge on wiring accessories, helping the customer service team wherever and whenever they may need it, but she’s always keen to listen and learn - “Every day’s a school day!”

Eurolite, carlislebrass.com/eurolite

1 GANG 10 AMP 2 WAY SWITCH 86x86x3mm

CONCEALED

Designed for use in modern, contemporary, domestic and commercial environments.

Satin BrassMatt Black Matt White

Antique BrassBlack NickelStainless

INTRODUCING THE GRID360 KINETIC RANGE

Selectric is committed to innovation that anticipates the needs of its clients. The company understands that new products are vital for the growth and success of any business, and believes that it is this proactive mindset that sets Selectric apart from other manufacturers in the electrical industry.

With the strategic appointment of new key personnel and the development of cutting-edge product ranges, backed by compelling new literature and marketing endeavours, Selectric is firmly positioned for future growth. As the company forges ahead, it maintains focus on continuous development, regularly listening to the electrical marketplace and collaborating with industry stakeholders to develop new products that align with their ever-changing needs. Recent feedback has driven Selectric to invest significantly in its smart accessories – the GRID360 Kinetic range.

The GRID360 Kinetic range is a revolutionary new wireless switch system and represents a major leap forward in sustainability and convenience. Wireless kinetic switches operate by using kinetic energy generated from pressing a button to send a signal to a receiver,

which then activates the connected device or appliance. The kinetic energy from the action of pressing the button powers the transmission of the signal, eliminating the need for batteries or wiring. This innovative technology offers a convenient and energy-efficient solution for controlling various devices in a wireless manner. This setup has several advantages over traditional switches.

No wiring

First and foremost, this advanced technology eliminates the need for cumbersome and unsightly wires. This not only simplifies the setup process, but also makes it possible to use the switch in a wider variety of locations. With a wireless switch, users can control their devices from a remote location, such as a different room or even outside. This is particularly useful for controlling lights, fans and other appliances in the home, as well as

for controlling various office equipment in the workplace.

Energy efficiency

The system uses a very small amount of energy as it generates power through the kinetic energy of the user’s interaction, making it a sustainable choice for smart home automation. This, in turn, reduces overall power consumption which results in economic savings and contributes towards an improved carbon footprint.

Flexibility

Wireless kinetic switches do not rely on traditional wiring for power, which allows them to be placed in various locations without the constraints of wiring locations. They can be placed virtually anywhere within their communication range, providing flexibility in switch placement and room design.

Ease of installation

Wireless kinetic switches are easy to install because they do not require any hardwiring or complex installation processes. Simply mounting the switch where desired and pairing it with the compatible receivers or devices allows for a quick and hassle-free setup. This makes them an efficient and convenient option for those looking to add a switch to their home without the need for professional installation.

Reliability

Another advantage of the GRID360 Kinetic wireless switch is that it is much more reliable than traditional wired switches. Since the switch does not rely on a physical connection to the device, there is no risk of the switch becoming disconnected or damaged due to accidental impacts. This results in a more dependable and stable experience, which is particularly important for professional applications.

There is a wide range of receivers to choose from to solve real-life controlling requirements and Selectric offers a range of non-dimmable, dimmable, and smart receivers. The lowest and highest brightness level can be set by an app on the smart dimmer. This helps the performance and compatibility of the dimmer to suit more dimmable light fittings whilst avoiding the flicker and slow response issues often found with smart dimmers.

The GRID360 Kinetic system uses Tuya Smart App and Smart Life App. These apps are both smartphone applications that allow users to control and manage smart home devices such as lighting, thermostats, cameras and more. While both apps are quite similar in functionality and user interface, Tuya Smart App is specifically designed to work with products powered by Tuya Technology, whereas Smart Life App is a

Up

to 10 switches can be paired with any of the Selectric receivers

more generic platform compatible with a wider range of smart devices from various manufacturers. Ultimately, the choice between the two apps may come down to the specific devices a user wants to connect and control within their smart home ecosystem.

You can pair up to 10 switches with any of the Selectric receivers, offering a large range of flexibility depending on your scenario. There’s also an IP65 waterproof silicon wireless fob switch available, which is ideal to be added to a keyring for operating garage or shed door systems.

A 30m transmission range (depending on context) ensures the switches perform steadily under complex indoor installations and a 70m transmission range for outdoor.

The GRID360 range offers a high level of flexibility and customisation

GRID360 Kinetic switches have been designed to integrate into Selectric’s ever-popular GRID360 range of plates, allowing you to match all the company’s current finishes ranging from the generic white finish to a rich dark bronze. The

GRID360 range offers a high level of flexibility and customisation with its fully interchangeable grid switch modules and plates. The elimination of yokes by allowing modules to screw directly into each plate simplifies installation and offers a wide array of options to meet various requirements efficiently. With over 400 items and thousands of possible combinations, the options available are vast and can cater to a wide range of needs, ensuring that there is something to suit everyone’s preferences and requirements.

Ultimately, the choice between wireless kinetic switches and traditional switches should be based on factors such as the building’s design, user preferences, budget, and compatibility with existing systems. So, if you are looking for a more intuitive and flexible way to control your devices, consider investing in GRID360 Kinetic wireless switches today.

Selectric, selectricuk.co.uk

KNIGHTSBRIDGE TURNS UP THE POWER WITH 63W USB CHARGING

Laptops and other power-hungry devices can now be USB-charged directly from the socket thanks to Knightsbridge’s new 63W PD wall charger.

Suited to commercial and retail environments such as hotels, cafés, bars and offices, the new 63W PD wall charger is Knightsbridge’s most powerful yet and supports Power Delivery (PD), Programmable Power Supply (PPS) and Quick Charge (QC) through two USB-C and one USB-A ports.

With compatible cables, PD and PPS laptops can be charged straight from the socket using a 63W USB-C port, without the need for bulky adaptors. With the latest USB-C interface, many Android and Apple (iPhone 8 and above) devices also support fast-charging PD technology.

PPS fast charging is the most advanced charging technology for USB-C devices. The technology adjusts the voltage and current in real time, depending on a device’s charging status, feeding it with maximum power.

USB-PD gives more power than standard USB charging, making it the ideal choice to charge larger devices such as tablets and laptops. Devices that support USB-PD can use the USB-C port to achieve a maximum 45W delivery (20V DC 2.25A).

QC allows for the charging of devices, mainly mobile phones, at levels above and beyond the typical 5V and 2A for which most standard USBs allow.

More power, faster charging, and voltage management all contribute to fast charging without supplying excessive power, which could damage electronics through overcharging or overheating.

Legacy devices, such as older Android-based smartphones, can charge at up to 15W via the USB-A port (20V DC 1.5A).

Power is shared when more than one port is active at the same time.

The sockets are available in a sleek black raised rounded edge model or the premium screwless collection, and in the company’s most popular decorative finishes: anthracite, brushed chrome, matt black and matt white.

The sockets are rated at IP20 for ingress of dust and objects over 12mm in diameter and are also LVD, EMC and ErP certified, giving peace of mind to the installer and end user. Further peace of mind is provided by a two-year warranty.

For residential use – and/or where USB charging is required alongside ‘three pin power’ – Knightsbridge also offers two gang sockets which deliver up to 45W

PD over a USB-C port and 18W QC over a USB-A port. Available in curved or square edge, the 45W sockets come in white, anthracite, matt black, matt white and brushed chrome.

Knightsbridge, mlaccessories.co.uk

The new 63W PD wall charger is Knightsbridge’s most powerful yet

USB-C PORT 1

SUPPORTS PD3.0

BEST PORT FOR TABLETS AND PHONES (MAX. 60W)

LVD, EMC AND ErP CERTIFIED

USB-C PORT 2

SUPPORTS PD3.0 AND PPS BEST PORT FOR LAPTOPS (MAX. 63W)

USB-A PORT 3 SUPPORTS LEGACY DEVICES (MAX. 15W)

SUPPORTS USB PD, QC AND PPS

63W USB WALL CHARGERS

OUR MOST POWERFUL USB WALL PLATE CHARGER TO DATE IDEAL FOR HOTELS, OFFICES, CAFES, BARS AND RESTAURANTS

THE ECN AWARDS ARE RETURNING FOR 2024!

After the success of the first ECN Awards in 2023, the event is back and promises to be even bigger and better than before!

The ECN Awards celebrate the best of the electrical contracting industry and, on 5 December 2024, 23 deserving products, companies and people will take home a coveted ECN Award.

The ECN Awards will once again be hosted at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre in Coventry, following fantastic feedback from attendees. The event will be a wonderful celebration of our industry, with delicious food and drink, entertainment, and a fabulous after-party!

Companies in the electrical contracting industry are leading the way in innovation and are constantly striving to improve safety, efficiency and sustainability in all sectors, and we believe it is important to recognise their efforts and achievements. If you feel your product, company or project deserves an ECN Award, please enter. Entries are open now – please head over to electricalcontractingnews.com/ awards-entries to enter.

We are thrilled to announce Aico as headline sponsor of this year’s awards, and are delighted that Selectric will be returning as the Projects Category sponsor, along with CEF joining us once again as the sponsor of the Sustainable

Products Category. And we are really excited to welcome Hispec as sponsor of the Companies category and Chint as sponsor of the drinks reception. Sponsorship opportunities are still available – if sponsoring is of interest then please contact Kelly Byne.

An independent panel of industry experts will judge the awards based on the criteria set out on the entry form.

Please add the ECN Awards 2024 to your diary and join us on 5 December 2024 for a fun-filled evening! The Heart of England is a stunning venue located in the centre of the country that can be easily accessed by road via the M1, M40 and M6, as well as by rail. Early bird tickets are available now at a discounted rate until 30 June and can be purchased at electricalcontractingnews.com/tickets.

If you wish to stay overnight, there is accommodation available on-site, as well as many hotels located nearby. You can find information about the local hotels by visiting electricalcontractingnews.com/ accommodation. Advanced booking is highly recommended.

If you have any questions regarding the event, please contact Carly at carly@ allthingsmedialtd.com or Kelly at kelly@ allthingsmedialtd.com or give us a call on 01634 673163.

We can’t wait to celebrate the best of the industry with you at the ECN Awards 2024 – see you there!

ECN Awards 2024, electricalcontractingnews.com/awards

ECN Awards 2024 Categories Products

• Cable Product of the Year

• Cable Management Product of the Year

• Circuit Protection Product of the Year

• Fire Safety Product of the Year

• HVAC Product of the Year

• Lighting Product of the Year

• Software/App Product of the Year

• Tools/Testing Product of the Year

• Wiring Accessories Product of the Year

Sustainable Products

• EV Charging Product of the Year

• Power Product of the Year

• Smart Buildings/Sustainability Product of the Year Projects

• Lighting Project of the Year

• Sustainable Project of the Year

• Overall Project of the Year

Training

• Training Provider/Initiative of the Year

• Apprentice of the Year Companies

• Manufacturer of the Year

• Independent Wholesaler/ Distributor of the Year

• Chain Wholesaler/Distributor of the Year (three stores or more)

• Contractor of the Year (turnover under £5m)

• Contractor of the Year (turnover over £5m)

Special Recognition Award

18–19 SEPTEMBER 2024

18-19 SEPTEMBER 2024

18 SEPTEMBER 2024