August 2013
Websites that Don’t Perform.
The Solution on Pg 12
ROTO-LUGS Rotational-Lug-Technologies
Tested at UL for 1000 Hours at 1035 AMPS
750 AL - 600 MCM CU - 3/0
Lugs That Rotate & Lock Position www.rotolugs.com
LESS BENDS - LESS INJURIES 50 % + IN LABOR SAVINGS USER FRIENDLY (630)-562-9402
LISTED 4RC9
Current Contents
GROUP PUBLISHER
4
Jim Barnhill 205-733-1343 jim@theelectriccurrent.com
New Products by Larson Electronics LLC
PUBLISHER
Hank Underwood 205-733-1341 hank@theelectriccurrent.com
NATIONAL SALES MANAGER Kristy Wynn 205-733-2025 kristy@handfmedia.net
12
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
Websites that dont Perform
Ed Bauer ed@handfmedia.net
EDITOR
Brandon Greenhill 205-733-4343 brandon@tipsmag.net
New Temperature Controller For Embedded Applications announced by Oven Industries
20 22 24
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
What College of the Desert Grads Have to Say
FACILITATOR/ HEAD COORDINATOR
V.P. OF SALES
Steven Hobson steven@tipsmag.net
Bart Beason 205-733-1342 bart@tipsmag.net
CEO
PRESIDENT Glen Hobson
Executive and Advertising Offices 2070 Valleydale Rd, Suite # 6 Hoover Al 35244 toll free: 866.981.4511 phone: 205-441-5591 fax: 205-733-1344 www.theelectriccurrent.com • glen@tipsmag.net Augu s
t 20 13
Webs ites th at Don’t Perfo rm.
2 The Electric Current • August 2013
Danny Thompson danny@handfmedia.net
Christy Hobson
Ad Index
Cover Artwork Provided by App Scheduling
WEB DESIGNER
Jacklyn Hobson jacklyn@handfmedia.net
The S olu
tion
on P g 12
The Electric Current™ is published six times a year on a monthly basis by H&F Media, Inc., 2070 Valleydale Rd, Hoover Al 35244 USA. The Electric Current™ is distributed free to qualified subscribers. Non-qualified subscription rates are $57.00 per year in the U.S. and Canada and $84.00 per year for foreign subscribers (surface mail). U.S. Postage paid at Birmingham, Alabama and additional mailing offices. The Electric Current™ is distributed to to qualified owners and managers in the electrical industry. Publisher is not liable for all content (including editorial and illustrations provided by advertisers) of advertisements published and does not accept responsibility for any claims made against the publisher. It is the advertiser’s or agency’s responsibility to obtain appropriate releases on any item or individuals pictured in an advertisement. Reproduction of this magazine in whole or in part is prohibited without prior written permission from the publisher. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to H&F Media, Inc., P.O. Box 382315 Birmingham, Alabama 35238-2315 PRINTED IN THE USA
New Products by Larson Electronics, LLC Explosion Proof LED Traffic Light with Red, Yellow and Green Lights The EPL-TL-3X10W-C LED explosion proof traffic light provides operators in industrial operations with an effective and highly durable signaling fixture that can be used in a variety of applications including routing traffic through refueling stations and indicating a stop, running, or caution status during the operation of manufacturing machinery. This LED traffic light features LED indicator lamps for high visibility and extreme reliability, explosion proof approval for use in hazardous locations, and a heavy duty design that can stand up to the rigors of industrial operations. This signal light assembly has three lamp housings, each constructed of powder coated copper free aluminum and each lamp can withstand 1,490 pounds PSI hydrostatic pressure. The mounting assembly is also constructed from heavy gauge aluminum for high strength and Larson Electronics offers the option of custom mounting assembly configurations for customers with special design requirements.
High Intensity 70 Watt LED Boat Light The LED-BL-70W LED boat light draws only 70 watts @5.84 amps when connected to 12 VDC current yet produces over 6,000 lumens of intense white light. Designed for harsh marine environments, this powerful LED boat light is IP68 rated waterproof to three meters and fully sealed against intrusion from water, dust and contaminants. Containing seven 10 watt Cree LEDs, this compact LED boat light produces more light than comparable halogen boat lights, yet uses less power and lasts for 50,000 hours of operation. To provide highly versatile operation and excellent heat control, this LED boat light contains advanced pulse width modulation (PWM) LED drivers that actively monitor LED heat and modify current accordingly to maintain an optimum LED operating temperature, in turn providing maximum LED output and lifespan over a wide range of operating conditions. 4 The Electric Current • August 2013
Simpler.Faster.Better Solar PVMounting Solutions
Solar
™
From Residential to Utility Scale HatiCon Solar Ground Mount solar PV mounting system is optimized for quick and efficient installation with a flexible and forgiving foundation, pre-assembled components and compatibility with all module types. Key Benefits:
• On-site flexibility, no on-site fabrication • 0°-35° of North/South tilt • No extensive grading required • Pre-assembled components
Contact us at
(866) 489-4472 info@haticonsolar.com www.haticonsolar.com
• Click technology components for fast installation • Non corrosive aluminum • Shallow embedment • Multiple footing options
Bearing Block ±35° North/South ±8° East/West Tilt Onsite Flexibility
Universal Clamp 51mm 33mm
Universal Clamp 51mm 36mm
Up to 12 in of onsite vertical Adjustability
Magnetic Mount LED Light Bar The LEDP3W-3-M low profile high intensity LED light bar is designed for tough conditions and high versatility and gives operators a powerful and easy to deploy source of powerful illumination. This light is also available in flood light configurations for those who need a light with a wider beam dispersion and greater coverage of larger areas. This high intensity light bar is designed for versatility and rugged use with a compact and waterproof housing formed from extruded aluminum, unbreakable polycarbonate lens, and tough magnetic mounting base with 200 lbs of grip. This LED light fixture is IP68 rated waterproof to three meters of submersion, making it impervious to the effects of driving rain and tough weather conditions.
6 The Electric Current • August 2013
LED High Bay Light Fixture The GAU-HB-30X5W-1227 LED high bay light provides operators in industrial operations the ability to improve lighting quality while also increasing efficiency. This LED high bay light pulls only 150 watts at 1.25 amps from standard 120 VAC, yet produces light output comparable to that of 400 watt metal halide light fixtures. Unlike metal halide, these LED fixtures run much cooler and do not experience color shifting and erratic operation as the lamp ages. These fixtures also do not require any ballast or large reflector assembly, making them smaller, lighter, and more reliable than standard HID systems which require ballasts to power the bulb and large reflectors to effectively distribute light output.
Explosion Proof Paint Spray Booth Light on Dolly Cart with Wheels The EPLCD-48-2L explosion proof paint spray booth light on a dolly cart is a powerful fluorescent lighting solution for those who need the full power illumination of a permanent fixture as well as the mobility of a portable light. Equipped with Larson Electronics' EPL-48-2L explosion proof light fixture, this paint booth approved light produces 10,000 lumens of quality illumination that provides the even illumination, good color rendering, and clear contrasting needed for paint booth operations. The new cart design on this paint booth light features copper free aluminum construction, four wheels, and a new fold down handle that makes maneuvering the unit into tight spaces a breeze. Operators can roll this unit in the upright position or laid flat and the long fold down handle allows operators to easily slide the cart underneath vehicles and paint booth projects. The new cart design also provides better protection for the lamp fixture due to the new double side rail construction that adds strength and a lamp cover grill that reduces the chances of objects impacting the fixture. 8 The Electric Current • August 2013
100 Foot Explosion Proof Extension Cord The EPEXC-100-250V explosion proof extension cord from Larson Electronics is designed to extend the reach of equipment in hazardous locations where power receptacles are not in close proximity to the work space. This explosion proof cord is 100 feet in length, providing ample length for moving about the work space. This unit is constructed with 100 feet of 12/3 SOOW explosion proof cord rated at 250 volts and 20 amps, making it ideal for connecting lighting and power tools when power receptacles are not near the work area. This cord is fitted with an explosion proof twist lock receptacle constructed of non sparking aluminum on one end for connection of equipment and a EPP-250-2P20A explosion proof plug on the other for safe and secure connection to power receptacles.
10 The Electric Current • August 2013
Portable Metal Halide Light Tower The WAL-C-3XM quadpod temporary light tower provides the power and performance of a full size metal halide tower without the cumbersome size and weight. This light tower features a four leg quadpod design that provides better stability and strength than standard three leg tripod towers without taking up more space. The tower assembly is constructed of powder coated steel for high strength and has a base fitting with two 10 inch wheels to allow operators to simply tilt the tower back and roll it into the desired position once set up. This light tower is adjustable and can be extended from 7 feet to 12 feet in height using an included hand winch. A ballast box is mounted to the tower base and features a built in on/off switch, line circuit protection, and power indicator light. The lamp assembly atop this tower features three independently adjustable 1,000 watt metal halide lamps. The entire lamp assembly can be lifted from the tower and the mast and leg assembly collapsed and folded, allowing the components to be easily transported in the back of a small truck or even a car.
Websites that Don’t Perform. AppScheduling.com was developed by Mark Lallemand. The site was designed and developed to be used by any type of business needing a website to accept service calls, take bookings, give price quotes and make appointments for their customers.
“Of course, I have a website that is well designed and provides an excellent corporate image but it simply did not add much monitary value to my company until I got AppScheduling.”
This website’s creation came from the construction industry where Mark has specialized for over 20 years. His experiences allowed him to see a variety of service levels and scheduling tactics used throughout the industry. A need was discovered for the contractors, as well as for the customers they were servicing. These clients had a need to conveniently schedule appointments, choose services, get price quotes and make payment immediately online. “The world is changing” Lallemand said “and if your business is not willing to change then it is going to be left behind.” Here are some facts your business should know: • 80% of all business that don’t pick up the phone will lose that business • 58% of all small business do not have a website • 2016 online sales are predicted to increase by 45% to over 327 billion • 20% of the internet traffic today comes from mobile devices • 50% of web sales will be generated from mobile web and apps by 2015 Another important fact Mark saw was the affect the economy was having on both contractors and customers in the construction industry. He knew if he could help his construction contractors in developing a website that could actually increase and handle service calls from their customers, it would increase the contractor’s sales and also help them retain those new customers for future business. 12 The Electric Current • August 2013
14 The Electric Current 誰 August 2013
Even in depressed economy, Mark’s construction contractors could actually separate themselves from fierce competition during an economic downturn.. Essentially, the site would make them stand out from the crowd by both attracting and retaining customers! This would certainly give the contractors using the AppScheduling.com website a competitive advantage that would most likely lead to increased sales. Additionally, Mark wanted to ensure the website (AppScheduling) he was creating wasn’t just an informational page. This site will enhance the customers experience with the contractor, help the contractor increase sales, and open opportunities for more prospects to be introduced to their business. Trying to do this on a customer-by-customer basis would be very time consuming and extremely expensive for any contractor. That is exactly why Mark developed this site! By developing AppScheduling. com, he could absorb all the upfront costs of creating a website for contractors without the high cost of programming each individual site. As a result, AppScheduling. com was built to manage and handle the entire complex coding required, leaving the contractor to only to add in small bits of information specific to their individual products and services. AppScheduling.com creates an environment of simplicity and ease of doing business for both the contractor and the customer. In developing this website, Mark considered that many companies do not currently have their own websites. As an additional benefit for his clients, he has included a website development feature! This feature allows companies without websites to select a format from a variety of templates provided by the AppScheduling.com team to create a personalized website for their company if they do 16 The Electric Current • August 2013
not already have one. Mark also recognizes the need for many businesses to be able to accept credit cards for services scheduled or rendered. Many companies do not have the means to accept credit cards from their websites. Hence, Mark took that worry away! AppScheduling.com includes an additional feature allowing companies to accept payments from their customers with credit cards directly from their websites with no sign up fees, no approvals required, and no monthly maintenance fees. This site is not limited to handling service calls and scheduling for the construction industry. AppScheduling.com was developed to take any service business request or orders for all service type industries; such as, auto dealerships, service garages, etc. Mark envisioned the site to be capable of taking on-line bookings for other industries like hotel or car rental businesses. The site will also make appointments for business such as hair salons, doctor’s offices, and/or attorneys. “The world is for ever changing around us and we must be willing and able to change with it.” History has proven over and over how true this is by looking at companies like IBM and NCR corporations. Approximately 5060 years ago IBM was largely a typewriter company but just look at the wonderful layers of change they have gone through. NCR began 75 years ago as “The National Cash Register” and today is one of the most divers company’s in America. NCR has become the global leader in assisted- and self-service solutions, serving businesses with our products and services such as ATM machines, Retail and Restaurant Point of Sale (POS hardware and software) and Airport SelfService Kiosks. For additional information or to sign up, go to AppScheduling.com Article by Perry Lowe
18 The Electric Current • August 2013
New Temperature Controller for Embedded Applications announced by Oven Industries
Oven Industries’ 5R7-001 temperature controller creates a seamless transition between heating and cooling devices, as it serves as the commander of thermoelectric modules. With a bi-directional or unidirectional H-bridge configuration, the temperature controller has many benefits. The included, user-friendly PC software makes it quick and simple for users to change any temperature control configurations, which eliminates signal interference or errant signals. The software also enables the temperature controller to operate as a stand-alone unit. A computer can also be connected to the device, for retrieving data. The 5R7-001 offers temperature setting and control through the remote potentiometer and the optional display. Delivering a load current of .1 to 25 Amps, the controller has several other features that make it appealing, including being RoHS compliant, allowing for a set temperature range of -40 to 250 degrees Celsius, having a large program memory space for customization, being PC programmable and having 0-36 VDC output using a split power supply system. Oven Industries supplies custom temperature controllers and sensors that serve an array of clients, from aerospace, automotive, biomedical, defense markets, medical and semiconductor. From industrial temperature controllers to programmable sensors, Oven Industries creates many detailed and customized solutions for clients, designed by an expertly trained staff of engineers. For more information about the 5R7-001 controller, visit http://www.ovenind.com/bv/Products/5R7-001-Electronic-Temperature-Controller__5R7-001.aspx. 20 The Electric Current • August 2013
Graduate Testimonials «With ever changing world we live in, I saw nothing but opportunity in the growth of knowledge that would add value to my resume. At first that was my expectation. And how impressed I was. I walked away from this course with, Yes more knowledge, but the friendship, and bonds my classmates and I formed have proven far superior than I ever expected. I utilize my former classmates for help on a daily basis. We even help on another in gaining employment. They have given me the courage to try again at my own business and I felt better than ever. I cannot express how Thankful I am for this opportunity, and the knowledge given to us from such great teachers like Servando, and Joe. They were and continue to be the best teachers EVER. Keep up the GREAT work.”
“The Solar Photovoltaic Principles and Applications course teaches the principles of solar photovoltaics, related electrical theory, essential design considerations, basic installation, and performance factors. Participants receive 60 hours of training which providing the fundamental knowledge and skills for entering into the solar energy workforce. I found that COD offered a clear and attainable path for individuals who are looking to enter the solar energy workforce. Since completion of the course I have participated within 18 hours of installs with GRID Alternatives and I have just received notification that I have successfully passed the North American Board of certified energy Practitioners (NABCEP) entry level test.”
Anthony D’Alessio Utility Scale Solar Energy Sept 2012
Ivor Newman PV Principles May 2012
22 The Electric Current • August 2013
“I took the Utility Scale Solar Power class thru College of the Desert in Sept. of 2010. I was out of work and needed some new skills to add to my teaching career. The class and the instructor, Servando Gereau, were excellent. Not only was the information top notch, the social energy in the class was infectious. We all worked together to pass the NABCEP Entry Level exam and move on to new careers in Renewable Energy. Many of my classmates are working in the solar industry and we continue to grow our network of ‘solarians’. I am now employed by the College as a training assistant for the program. As a career teacher, I am glad to give back to the program, as it has given me so much. Our PV Principles and Applications class is getting people trained and working. Our PV Technical Sales course will attract interest across the country. I am invigorated by my new career. I feel vital again.” Joe Wachsmuth Utility Scale Solar Energy Sept. 2010
The Electric Current ï Ad Index
Company
Pg.
Website
American Pipe & Plastics
BC
www.ampipe.com
App Scheduling
1
www.appscheduling.com
Byte Brothers
18
www.bytebrothers.com
California Turbo
16
www.californiaturbo.com
Cementex USA
17
www.cementex.com
College of the Desert
23
www.collegeofthedesert.edu
Dee Zee Dur-A-Lift, Inc. Elk River
7 13 14, 15
www.deezee.com www.dur-a-lift.com www.elkriver.com
Haticon
5
www.haticonsolar.com
Hercules Industries
6
www.herculock.com
Hioki USA
3
www.hiokiusa.com
Krenz Vent
10
www.krenzvent.com
LAPP USA
21
www.lappusa.com
NECA
19
www.necaconvention.org
Pelsue
11
www.pelsue.com
Ram Mount Rotational Lug Tech Steelman Industries, Inc. V-Mac
24 The Electric Current • August 2013
9
www.ram-mount.com
IFC
www.rotolugs.com
6
www.steelman.com
IBC
www.vmacair.com/ncp