EPS Magazine, October 2010 Issue

1010EPSpC1.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:07 PM

Page C1

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:27 PM

Page C2

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 1 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:27 PM

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 4 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Page 1

1010EPSp02.qxd:Layout 1

10/11/10

8:03 AM

Page 2

CONTENTS

PUBLISHER

Danny J. Salchert OFFICE MANAGER

Anita Salchert NATIONAL SALES MANAGER

Jerry DiChiara jerryd@epsmag.net CREATIVE DIRECTOR

Derek Gaylard CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

John Doherty, Muey Saephanh, Ezra Auerbach CIRCULATION DIRECTOR

Pam Fulmer

6

FEATURES 6 Yokogawa’s CW240 Power Recorder Exceeds Expectations at (UL) Underwriters Labs

By John Doherty

14

Green Lake County Center Keeping up with Today’s Technology Demands

By Muey Saephanh

20

The new NABCEP PV Technical Sales Certification – Right for You?

By Ezra Auerbach

DEPARTMENTS 26 Industry News 32 Product Focus 40 Ad Index ON THE COVER Cover photography provided by ICC

PRESIDENT

Danny J. Salchert Executive and Advertising Offices 3591 Cahaba Beach Road Birmingham, AL 35242 toll free: 800.981.4541 phone: 205.981.4541 fax: 205.981.4544 www.epsmag.net • danny@epsmag.net Electrical Products & Solutions™ is published twelve times a year on a monthly basis by ABD Communications, Inc., 3591 Cahaba Beach Road, Birmingham, Alabama, 35242, USA. Electrical Products & Solutions™ 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.

Electrical Products & Solutions™ is distributed to qualified readers in the electrical contracting 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 ABD Communications, Inc., P.O. Box 382885 Birmingham, Alabama 35238-2885 PRINTED IN THE USA

2

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 5 ON READER SERVICE CARD

7:27 PM

Page 3

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:27 PM

Page 4

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 6 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:27 PM

Page 5

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 7 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSp06,08,12.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

6:23 PM

Page 6

FEATURE • Yokogawa

Yokogawa’s CW240 Power Recorder Exceeds Expectations at (UL) Underwriters Labs

By John Doherty Underwriters Lab (UL) field technicians required an UL LISTED portable power recorder that would measure and record harmonics along with all other related power data on electrical power generating systems. The field technicians would use these power recorders onsite to verify that the power generating system met UL specifications. UL evaluated a number of instruments before choosing the Yokogawa CW240. Their decision was based on the instruments performance, ease of use and the following built in features; • Voltage Input Range: 150/300/600/1000 • Current Input Range: 200 mA, 2, 50, 200, 500, 700, 3,000 Amps.

• Measures: V, A ,W ,Var, PF, PA, Hz, kWH, Varh, Sags, Swells, Demand & Harmonic - all items can be measured simultaneously.

• Wiring: Up to 3P4W4i • Multiple System Load Measurement: Up to 4 loads simultaneously • Harmonic Measurements = V, A, P, PA, V THD & A THD • Data analyzing graphic display and Set up software packages • UL LISTED

When the technicians arrived on site they were very pleased with the easy to access configure menus and connection diagrams. The CW240 then showed the technicians if they were connected correctly with a very simple OK or NG (No Good).

Alongside of the indication is a large current and voltage phase input diagram. The technician could see exactly which inputs were on the incorrect phase ensuring acContinued on page 8 curate readings.

6

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:27 PM

Page 7

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 8 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSp06,08,12.qxd:Company Spotlight

FEATURE • Yokogawa

10/11/10

8:04 AM

Page 8

Continued from page 6

The Yokogawa CW240 Power Recorder

Once testing started, the technicians began to see all the real time data that was available for viewing. The CW240 displayed the voltages, currents, power and power factor on each phase, and also the harmonics and a view of the voltage and current wave forms, which allowed them to analyze the data more efficiently. If a voltage spike, sag or power interruption occurred, the information could be seen real time on the voltage quality log. With the push of a button the CW240 can save

8

the real time data from the viewing screen directly to a file. Onsite engineers and technicians found this to be invaluable during testing when problems occurred.

Upon completion of field testing, the technicians were required to submit hard copy documentation to both the onsite engineer and UL home office. The existing UL report template was not only time consuming, but once the report was generated it was found to be incapable of showing specific areas of data. Once the

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

technicians discovered the easily generated preconfigured data reports of the CW240’s AP240E, all issues related to the labor intensive reports were resolved.

The flexibility of the unit and its data logging software also allowed the onsite engineer to request and receive the data in a .CSV format, allowing the data to be easily imported into an existing spreadsheet. The AP240E report template was evaluated and instituted as the UL field data report.

Continued on page 12

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:27 PM

Page 9

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 9 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:27 PM

Page 10

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 10 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 11 ON READER SERVICE CARD

7:28 PM

Page 11

1010EPSp06,08,12.qxd:Company Spotlight

FEATURE • Yokogawa

10/11/10

8:04 AM

Page 12

Continued from page 8

choice for this requirement. Since the CW240 was previously accepted as a reliable testing tool, time & money were saved by not having to recertify and train the technicians on a new piece of equipment.

UL originally purchased the unit for a specific intent but with continued use they discovered a host of applications where the instrument proved to be invaluable. The CW240 is one of the most powerful, flexible, reliable, price competitive and most importantly “easy to use” power recorder/data logger in the market today.

About the Author

Companies requesting UL certification will often request that the UL engineer perform this service at their site. These engineers need to certify that the power quality of the electrical distribution system of these

facilities meet ANSI C84.1-2006. Using Yokogawa’s CW240 for large generator testing UL found that the features, flexibility and the UL listed label made the Yokogawa Power Recorder the instrument of

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 30 ON READER SERVICE CARD

12

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

John Doherty, Inside Sales / Electrical Power Applications has 20 years of experience in electrical testing, maintenance and repair in the electrical power industry. John has 10 years experience in the US Navy as an Electricians’ Mate and 10 years as the Lead Electrician and Instrumentation Technician, working in Trash to Energy Electrical Power Plants.

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:28 PM

Page 13

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 12 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSp14,16,18.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

6:33 PM

Page 14

FEATURE • ICC Pictured here are Bill DeHart (left) and Jason Bishop (right).

PHOTO CREDIT COURTESY OF BILL DEHART FROM RELIABLE CABLE

Green Lake County Center Keeping up with Today’s Technology Demands

By Muey Saephanh Green Lake County is at the southern end of the “New North” region which is northwest of Milwaukee. The county is surrounded by acres of agriculture, lakes and industrial operations. The perimeter of the county is sandy beaches, wooded shorelines and historic resorts. There is a lot of history in this small town and since the 1830s; the county has grown in many

14

ways. For a county of just 20,000, this new building is centralized and the residents can come to one building to take care of everything. There is no need to travel to one town to another just to take care of one issue; it can all be done there.

The Green Lake County Government Center is the newest and biggest building in Green Lake County. Continued on page 16

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:28 PM

Page 15

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 13 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSp14,16,18.qxd:Company Spotlight

FEATURE • ICC

10/9/10

6:33 PM

Page 16

Continued from page 14

This building houses the city hall and the government facilities all under one roof.

The Center has Heath and Human Services division and is also used by both the local Sheriff office as the dispatch control center, as well as the county jail. Moreover, the building is also used as a learning and disability center, as well as the center for the circuit court, the sheriff department and emergency services, so a robust and secure infrastructure is a must.

There are more than 200 workstations in the Center. Each workstation must be equipped with phone and high bandwidth data capabilities. Workstations are used for everyday office duties such as email, internet access and phone calls but also for emergency purposes. The site were designed with Category 6 cabling system to handle high bandwidth demands. It including one thousand CAT 6 High Density modular connectors, thirty CAT 6 48-port patch panels, over one hundred thousand feet of CAT 6 UTP riser premise cable and fifteen hundred Continued on page 18

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 31 ON READER SERVICE CARD

16

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:28 PM

Page 17

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 14 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSp14,16,18.qxd:Company Spotlight

FEATURE • ICC

10/9/10

6:33 PM

Page 18

Continued from page 16

pieces of CAT 6 patch cords. The design goal is to build a Category 6 cabling backbone with plenty of headroom to grow.

Cable management products such as 7foot 2-post distribution racks and finger ducts are also used throughout the communication rooms. The communication rooms had forethought and design to provide lots of room for growth and expan-

sion rather than just a wiring a closet. The main distribution frame (MDF) area has seven full sized distribution racks with room for expansions. The intermediate distribution frame (IDF) location also had room for expansion with four racks built in already.

The site now consists of over 1000 CAT 6 HD modular connectors. While

“I was able to save more than 35% on materials for this entire project. Based on all the testing we had, ICC was able to save us money and did not sacrifice any performance”.

— Bill DeHart, President of Reliable Cable

some cable runs were close to the maximum length allowed by the TIA/EIA standards, every channel tested out with not only passing but with very good margins.

This site is also certified with Lifetime Performance Warranty.

“This is the first time we are using ICC products and I am very happy with the outcome and the installation,” Bill Hutchison, Green Lake County IT Director, said. The project was installed by Reliable Cable of Appleton Wisconsin and procured through Crescent Electric, an authorized ICC distributor; uses ICC end to end structured cabling solution. Reliable Cable is a prominent low voltage installer in Wisconsin. Bill DeHart, owner and president of Reliable Cable, has been in the cabling industry for eight years. “I chose ICC because I’ve had a long term, good standing relationship with ICC. I use their products because I am familiar with it and I can install it with confidence,” Bill DeHart, President of Reliable Cable, said. “I was able to save more than 35% on materials for this entire project. Based on all the testing we had, ICC was able to save us money and did not sacrifice any performance”.

ICC has been manufacturing commercial and residential structured cabling solutions since 1948 with strict ISO 9001:2000 standards. Headquarters in Southern California, ICC offers complete commercial and residential structured cabling solutions.

ICC product line includes outlets, patch panels, and path cords in both copper and fiber connectivity. It also provides cable management products, premise cables, raceway products, residential media boxes and much more. For more information on ICC, please go to www.icc.com. ❏ Muey Saephanh is ICC’s Marketing Administrative Assistant, who can be reached via email at msaephanh@icc.com or by phone at 562.356.3113.

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 32 ON READER SERVICE CARD

18

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 15 ON READER SERVICE CARD

7:28 PM

Page 19

1010EPSp20,22,24.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

6:35 PM

Page 20

FEATURE • NABCEP

The new NABCEP PV Technical Sales Certification –

Right for You?

By Ezra Auerbach

Why in the world would an electrician or electrical contractor be interested in attaining NABCEP’s new PV Technical Sales Certification? The answer is simple: it takes far more than electrical know how to operate a successful solar business.

In addition to being able to perform the electrical and ancillary work involved in the installation part of job the electrician or contractor must be able to offer a competitive proposal to win the work in the first place.

No small amount of knowledge and experience is required to become a NABCEP Certified Technical Sales Professional.

The NABCEP Technical Sales Job Task Analysis (JTA) recognizes this. The JTA has seven major subject areas that define the job, they are: • Qualify the Customer • Site Analysis, • Conceptual Design, • Financial Costs, Incentives and Savings, • Financial Benefit Analysis, • Performance Analysis, and, • Prepare Proposals

every function described in this paragraph and the JTA is a necessary part of winning customer confidence and ultimately the sale.

No matter how well a PV system is in-

Clearly the PV Technical Sales Certification is aimed at solar electric industry professionals who perform the non-installation portions of the sales and commissioning process. They are the people who; meet with the customer to learn about their needs, wants and expectations, perform sites assessments, offer conservation advice, determine if PV is the appropriate technology for the customer, assess the roof and electrical service panel, measure the roof or other intended installation area, do the initial system design – string sizing, single line drawings, etc., calculate financial and non financial benefits, determine available incentives, write the sales proposal, hand off the system to the end user after commissioning and offer after sale advice and consultation. Each and 20

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

stalled, the end use customer will be dissatisfied if the sale experience results in over stated performance predictions, flawed site analysis or poor system design. The PV Technical Sales Certification is aimed at PV sales people and others who are responsible for the ethical presentation and accurate analyses and projections of electrical, environmental and financial performance of PV systems.

Any electrical business that aspires to go beyond subcontracting the installation work to a PV sales business that profits from the sale of the system must have principals or employees that are capable Continued on page 22 of performing these

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:28 PM

Page 21

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 16 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSp20,22,24.qxd:Company Spotlight

FEATURE • NABCEP

10/9/10

6:35 PM

Page 22

Continued from page 20

functions. Many of the tasks are already well within the experience of the seasoned electrical business, after all the matter of scoping out a job and developing plans and quotations is a regular part of any contracting business. Most contractors are also well aware of the value of customer service and how to build confidence with the customer as a critical part of winning the job in the first place.

It’s not a stretch to identify individuals within the company who would be able to take on the PV Technical Sales role with the benefit of additional training and mentored on the job experience. Most contractors have people who specialize in landing the work. The benefits of adding these capabilities to the team are clear and measurable in terms of increasing the scope and scale of the PV portion of the business at a time when other sectors are lagging. The ability to sell and install the job opens the door to increased revenue and greater profits. Most businesses don’t want a small piece of the pie when the en-

tire pie is available to them.

It would be easy for a contractor to say, “We can do this without seeking an outside certification, why bother?” This is indeed a valid question; the work of PV sales professionals has been conducted for years without a certification, why now?

The answer is best illustrated by the growth in demand for independently certified installers. An ever-growing number of incentive programs, bid writers, and consumers are asking for NABCEP Certified PV Installers. It will only be a matter of time before the same demand is evidenced for Certified PV Technical Sales professionals.

All one need do is read the news or listen to unhappy consumers who complain that they were victims of shoddy sales practices – poorly designed systems, unreal performance expectations, flawed site analyses, and even plain old lies – to realize that the need for qualified sales practitioners who adhere to a strict code of ethics is necessary for the continued

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 33 ON READER SERVICE CARD

22

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

growth of the PV industry.

Like all other NABCEP certifications becoming a NABCEP PV Technical Sales professional requires a combination of experience, training and rigorous testing.

There are seven different pathways to qualify to take this certification exam. The candidates handbook, available on the NABCEP website (www.nabcep.org) explains them in detail. The summary below covers the basic qualifications required for eligibility for the PV Technical Sales Certification: To qualify to sit for the NABCEP PV Technical Sales Certification examination, the candidate must have the OSHA 10 Hour Construction Class Card (international applicants, please see note above) and demonstrate that he/she meets at least one of the following minimum entry requirement tracks: a) A minimum of sixty (60) hours cumulative training covering the PV Technical Sales Job Task Analysis: AND a minimum of one (1) year Continued on page 24

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:28 PM

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 17 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Page 23

1010EPSp20,22,24.qxd:Company Spotlight

FEATURE • NABCEP

10/9/10

6:35 PM

Page 24

Continued from page 22

of verifiable sales experience; AND have successfully passed the NABCEP Entry Level PV Exam; OR b) A minimum of thirty-two (32) hours cumulative training covering the PV Technical Sales Job Task Analysis; AND a minimum of two (2) years of verifiable sales experience; AND have successfully passed the NABCEP Entry Level PV Exam; OR c) Two (2)-year renewable energy technology or technician degree from an accredited educational institution; AND a minimum of one (1) year verifiable experience; AND have successfully passed the NABCEP Entry Level PV Exam; OR d) Four (4)-year degree from an accredited educational institution; AND one (1) year verifiable sales experience*; OR e) Be a NABCEP Certified Solar PV or NABCEP Installer Emeritus*; OR f) Hold Journeyman or licensed Electrician credentials; AND have successfully passed the NABCEP Entry Level PV Exam*; OR

g) A minimum of five (5) years verifiable sales experience*. *NOTE: A minimum of 30 hours of additional training in all aspects of the PV Technical Sales Job Task Analysis is strongly recommended.

Qualifying category “f” will be of particular interest to readers of this publication. NABCEP has recognized the role of electricians and electrical contractors in the industry. With the training and experience that these individuals bring to the table along with specialty training in the basics of PV (NABCEP Entry Level) and additional training covering the PV Technical Sales JTA strongly recommended journeymen electricians will be able to take the exam.

It’s hard to imagine a more competitive advantage that a qualified electrical tradesperson could have in the PV marketplace than NABCEP dual certifications; PV Installer and PV Technical Sales. This combination of multi craft credentials truly sends a signal to consumers

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 34 ON READER SERVICE CARD

24

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

that the person holding them is a dedicated knowledgeable PV practitioner – someone committed to the highest quality standards from start to finish.

NABCEP is offering this certification examination through a national network of professional testing centers where candidates will take their 60 question multiple choice tests in a secure computer based format. This is a first for NABCEP; certification exams have always been delivered on a single day in a pencil and paper format in a limited number of sites across the country. Moving to this new method of exam delivery allows greater flexibility for candidates; the exam dates for the first round of testing are set for January 15 through 30, 2011.

Applications will be available on the NABCEP website starting on October 12, 2010 with an application closing date of December 10, 2010. ❏ Ezra Auerbach is the Executive Director at NABCEP

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:28 PM

Page 25

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 18 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSp26-30...#2.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

6:38 PM

Page 26

Industry NEWS

IES Accepts Two WattStopper Entries into 2010 Progress Report WattStopper is proud to receive

recognition from the IES (Illuminating Engineering Society) Progress Committee for two “unique and significant advancements to the art and science of lighting.” Both the company’s Energy Saving Calculators and its prototype Dual Loop Photosensor, solutions that combine new technologies with fresh ideas to help specifiers, facility managers and building owners put a stop to energy waste, have been accepted into the 2010 IES Progress Report.

Presentation of the Progress Report is an integral part of the IES Annual Conference, and this year’s presentation is scheduled for Novermber 8th in Toronto, Canada. The report will also be published in the January 2011 issue of Lighting Design + Application (LD+A) magazine.

WattStopper’s free calculators for lighting energy and plug loads help users iden- tify which lighting and control strategies best match their energy savings goals for retrofit or new construction projects, and help them maximize return on investment (ROI). The Lighting Energy Calculator permits comparison for multiple lamp and ballast types as well as multiple lighting control measures, while PlugCalc™ allows analysis of the savings from controlling plug-in office equipment and accessories. Both tools use third-party verifiable data published by industry and government organizations. The calculators are available on the company’s web site; PlugCalc is also available as an iPad application. Users can print or email results directly from the tools, and can create individual project libraries with stored results in a password-protected account.

WattStopper’s dual loop photosensor, under development for interior skylighted applications, combines open and closed loop daylighting control strategies in one product. It uses two photodiodes to measure ambient light and daylight levels, and a combined control algorithm to accu26

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

rately maintain the designed light level. It recalibrates itself every night to adapt to reflectance changes in the space, such as a new furniture layout, a new retail display or lamp lumen depreciation. ❏ WattStopper®, a Legrand group brand, is a leading manufacturer of energy efficient lighting controls for commercial and residential use. We help customers find convenient ways to save energy, meet green initiatives, and comply with energy codes with our comprehensive range of products, programs, and services.

Legrand®, located in Limoges, France, is the world specialist in products and systems for electrical installations and information networks, offering solutions for use in residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:28 PM

Page 27

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 19 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSp26-30...#2.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

6:38 PM

Page 28

Industry NEWS

Milwaukee Electric Tool Announces Chance to Win Tools for Life* Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation

announces the chance to win Tools for Life* through their recently launched Milwaukee Ink website. Dedicated to the loyal Milwaukee users that have made a lifetime commitment to the brand through body art, MilwaukeeInk.com is an interactive website that gives users the opportunity to upload their own Milwaukee® tattoo images, rate those of their peers and win prizes.

The Milwaukee Ink Tattoo of the Year contest will run through December 2011, giving users the chance to receive monthly recognition in the interim. With the “Rate Tattoo” feature on the website;

participants, friends and family can vote on each tattoo once a day to bring the best tattoos one step closer to earning the honor of “Milwaukee Tattoo of the Month”. Monthly winners will each receive a tool valued up to $300 and then be eligible to win the grand prize of Milwaukee Tools for Life*.

Since 1924, Milwaukee Electric Tool has demonstrated their commitment to the trades by offering advanced, innovative solutions that deliver unsurpassed durability. This commitment to quality has translated to users that are so passionate about the brand that they choose to publically showcase their loyalty. Milwaukee Ink serves to honor and reward these faithful Heavy Duty users. ❏ *Tools for Life: Choice of tools valued up to $500, every year for 20 years. For complete Official Rules and information on how to enter, visit www.MilwaukeeInk.com.

About Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation, a Brookfield, Wisconsin-based subsidiary of Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. (TTI) (HKEx stock code: 669, ADR symbol: TTNDY) is an industry leading manufacturer and marketer of professional, heavy duty power tools and accessories. Products include the legendary SAWZALL® reciprocating saws, M12™, M18™ & M28™ LITHIUM-ION cordless tools, HOLE-HAWG® drills, portable band saws, circular saws, driver drills, hammer drills, rotary hammers, grinders, sanders and a line of Test & Measurement tools. Accessories include SAWZALL® blades, SWITCHBLADE® self-feed bits, BIG HAWG® hole cutters, THUNDERBOLT® drill bits and SHOCKWAVE Impact Duty™. For more information on the full line of Milwaukee® power tools and accessories, please call 1-800-SAWDUST or visit www.MilwaukeeInk.com.

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 35 ON READER SERVICE CARD

28

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 20 ON READER SERVICE CARD

7:29 PM

Page 29

1010EPSp26-30...#2.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

6:40 PM

Page 30

Industry NEWS

Megger Donates Test Equipment to Mesalands Community College The North American Wind Research lege with the knowledge and experience and Training Center (NAWRTC) at Mesa- of battery technology,” David Danner,

lands Community College in Tucumcari, New Mexico, recently received battery testing equipment from Megger, a Valley Forge, Pennsylvania based manufacturer of electrical testing and measuring equipment.

Megger donated the BITE 3 Battery Impedance Test Equipment that will be used to evaluate the overall health of the batteries utilized in the College’s 1.5megawatt wind turbine, and during class demonstrations regarding battery technology.

“It’s important for students to leave col-

National Distributor Sales Manager at Megger said. “It appears batteries are the next steps in providing methods to store power generated from wind energy.” Danner has been working with NAWRTC providing their students with up to date equipment since 2008 when Megger donated over $9,000 in electrical testing equipment.

“We are pleased that Megger continues to provide our students with high quality testing equipment that is currently being utilized in the industry,” Dr. Phillip O. Barry, President of Mesalands Commu-

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 36 ON READER SERVICE CARD

30

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

(Left to right) David S. Danner, National Distributor Sales Manager at Megger, and Bill Allanson, Western Regional Distributor Sales Manager at Megger, present Dr. Phillip O. Barry, President of Mesalands Community College, with the equipment donation of the BITE 3 Battery Impendence Test Equipment to the North American Wind Research and Training Center at Mesalands Community College.

Jill Murtha (left) and Zack Foreman, Wind Energy Technology students at Mesalands Community College, use the battery testing equipment donated by Megger to gain hands-on experience in battery technology.

nity College said. “This donation will enhance the training experience of our students and better prepare them for a career in wind energy technology.” ❏

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:29 PM

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 21 ON READER SERVICE CARD

Page 31

1010EPSp34-40.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:03 PM

Page 32

Product FOCUS CAT 6A Cabling System for Tommorow’s Demands ICC introduces two Category 6A (CAT 6A) end-to-end solutions providing customers with the fastest data networking standard 10GBASE-T with transmission performance up to 500MHz. From CAT 6A UTP/FTP modular connectors and cables to patch panels, ICC has the products solutions for tomorrow’s high-bandwidth data demands.

ICC CAT 6A UTP System • Exceeds TIA-568-C.2 Category 6A standard and provides support for high bandwidth applications such as data centers and other data intensive or backbone requirements • Modular connector terminates easily with Jack-Easy tool reducing installation time • Shielded cap on connector and optimized port spacing on patch panel reduce Alien Crosstalk (AXT) • Cable designed with unique internal separator and jacket for centered wiring core to minimize AXT from neighboring cables • Qualifies for ICC Lifetime Certified Site Cabling System Limited Warranty when installed by ICC Elite Certified installers (conditions apply).

ICC CAT 6A FTP System • Exceeds TIA-568-C.2 Category 6A standard and delivers advanced performance and reliability in the most hostile and demanding datacom environments protecting vital network terminations from performance diminishing Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) • Modular connector designed for tool-less termination with integrated cap • Fully shielded connector and grounded patch panel protect against EMI and Alien Crosstalk (AXT) • Shielded jacket on cable reduces EMI and RFI noise interference • Qualifies for ICC Lifetime Certified Site Cabling System Limited Warranty when installed by ICC Elite Certified installers (conditions apply).

For more information, visit www.icc.com

O-Z/Gedney Clip-On™ Conduit Body Covers Reduce Installation Times, Provide Superior Sealing O-Z/Gedney, one of the electrical industry’s premier suppliers of conduit fittings, today debuted Clip-On™ Form-IN-Place conduit body covers that allow facilities to benefit from superior conduit body sealing, reduced inventory parts, and faster installation times. The covers fit all new or previously installed Form 7-style conduit body configurations in sizes from 1/2-inch to 4-inches.

The highlight of this unique design is an integral gasket that provides a seal that prevents wiring from being exposed to moisture and solvents. Because the integral gasket takes the place of a separate removable gasket, it helps reduce the number of parts a facility will have to keep in-house.

In addition, the covers simplify overall conduit system installation by eliminating the need to align, assemble and install a separate gasket in every conduit body. The covers can be removed and reinstalled for years of use.

Enhancing the cover’s installation ease are captive pan-head screws that provide excellent screwdriver torque and Clip-On™ clips for secure seating.

O-Z/Gedney Clip-On™ Form-IN-Place covers are made from stamped steel with a zinc pre-galvanized finish, making them exceptionally corrosion- and weather-resistant. They are UL Listed and CSA Certified for wet locations.

For more information, visit www.o-zgedney.com

32

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/11/10

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 22 ON READER SERVICE CARD

11:56 AM

Page 33

1010EPSp34-40.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:01 PM

Page 34

Product FOCUS Bridgeport Introduces Mighty-Seal™ PushEMT™ Raintight Conduit Fittings, Reducing Installation Time by Approximately 50 Percent Connectors are Part of Bridgeport’s New, Innovative Line of ‘Mighty-B’™ Fittings for Getting a Contractor’s Job ‘Done Fast, Done Right’ Bridgeport Fittings announces Mighty-Seal™ Push-EMT™ raintight connectors, the first of a product series in Bridgeport’s exclusive and innovative “Mighty-B”™ line of high-quality, high-performance products focused on getting a contractor’s job “done fast, done right.” The new Push-EMT fittings will reduce installation time by approximately 50 percent and total installed cost by nearly 15 percent, compared with conventional fittings.

Installation-ready right out of the box, the new, patent-pending Mighty-Seal™ fittings make connecting EMT conduit easier and faster than ever. All contractors need to do is just push the fitting onto the prepared conduit (a minimum ½”) and attach the fitting to the box. The job is done. In seconds, the fitting makes a secure concrete-tight and raintight seal. The fittings are both easily removable and reusable.

These time- and money-saving Push-EMT fittings exceed the stringent design requirements of UL 514B and the National Electrical Code. The fittings are also cULus Listed.

The Mighty-B™ fittings line is represented by “Mighty-B”™, a “mighty man” type superhero who stands for the innovation, speed, and maneuverability of the new Bridgeport line. Mighty-B™ himself can be followed on Twitter at www.twitter.com/CallMightyB. Bridgeport Fittings is a leading supplier of quality fittings to the industrial, commercial and residential channels of the electrical industry.

For more information, visit www.bptfittings.com

Seatek Company, Which Pioneered the Labor Saving Rotary Tool to Cut Armored Cables Has Introduced a New Model in the Roto-Split Line.

RS-101B is equipped with an exclusive auto clamping feature that does away with fussing with a thumb screw when cutting different sizes of AC/MC cable. Just squeeze the bottom lever & any cable from 14-2 to 10-4 or 3/8” Flex is secured, no adjustment is required! This new patent pending system prevents applying too much force to aluminum casing. Blade penetration is set at the factory to prevent nicking of wires in standard size AC/MC cable.

A few turns of the crank makes a clean slit through armored casing.

This takes only a few seconds, simply untwist to strip!

Best of all the cable pops out as soon as a cut is completed.

Auto-clamping adjusts to the diameter of the cable, no levers or screws to set! You can make cuts in tight quarters by ratcheting the handle back & forth when you’re in a tight spot.

Made in USA, Ergonomic crank handle is offset for maximum hand MSRP $29.95 clearance, and 6 blades can be stored in the knob.

For more information, visit www.seatekco.com

34

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

1010EPSp34-40.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:01 PM

Page 35

New Cooper Bussmann® 600Vdc Class RK5 Solar Fuses Provide Superior Circuit Protection for High Amperage Photovoltaic Systems The first Class RK5 fuse listed to the new UL photovoltaic (PV) fuse standard.

The new Cooper Bussmann® PVS-R solar fuse provides high amp ratings with the required fast-acting response to low photovoltaic DC faults. The PVS-R fuse is the first fuse of its kind to achieve a UL 2579 Listing for LOW-VOLTAGE FUSES – FUSES FOR PHOTOVOLTAIC SYSTEMS. With a dual 600Vac/dc rating, the PVS-R fuse is designed to meet the higher amperage levels of today’s larger solar power systems, while withstanding extreme high and low ambient temperatures, routine cycling, and opening under low level fault current conditions. Typical competitive offerings provide only traditional time-delay fuses that are not well suited for solar power system protection.

Unlike AC systems, the available short-circuit current in photovoltaic (PV) systems is limited and requires the overcurrent protective device to operate effectively on low levels of fault current. For this reason Cooper Bussmann, the recognized leader in critical circuit protection, power management and electrical safety, has conducted extensive research and development of fuses that are specifically designed and tested to address the unique overcurrent protection needs of PV systems. This includes testing in ovens to simulate actual application ambient temperatures. Cooper Bussmann also provides time-current curves which follow as close as possible to actual field applications.

Available in ratings from 20 to 600 amps, the PVS-R fuse is well suited for use in recombiner boxes and DC safety switches that operate at higher current levels, but experience the same low-level fault current conditions as combiner boxes and PV strings and arrays.

For more information, visit www.cooperindustries.com

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 38 ON READER SERVICE CARD

October 2010 • epsmag.net

35

1010EPSp34-40.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:01 PM

Page 36

Product FOCUS BURNDY® Announces the Expanded Line of Narrow Tongue Connectors BURNDY®, a leading manufacturer and provider of connector solutions to the industrial, energy, construction, telecommunication, petrochemical, data center, and transportation industries, announces the expanded line of Narrow Tongue connector line of product. To meet increasing demand for smaller components in today’s panels and switch gear, BURNDY® has expanded its line of narrow tongue product.

The narrow width tongue is perfect for connections in limited space applications. Made from high conductivity seamless copper tubing and electro-tin plated ensures a quality long lasting corrosion resistive connection. Marked with wire size, die index, and color coded bands to show correct number and location of crimps for proper installation. All BURNDY® narrow tongue terminals are UL Listed and CSA Certified when crimped with the approved tool and die combination, a part of the BURNDY® Engineered System. The connectors are RoHS compliant, per European Union directive, to help ensure a safer environment.

About BURNDY® Headquartered in Manchester, New Hampshire and with over 85 years of dedicated customer support in both service and product, our customers need look no further than BURNDY® for all their connector, tool, and accessory needs.

BURNDY® is the only manufacturer to have the BURNDY® Engineered System of coordinating dies, connectors and tools.

The three elements have been specifically designed to work together and engineered to meet stringent, accepted quality standards – allowing the user complete confidence in the integrity of the connection.

For more information, visit www.BURNDY.com

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 39 ON READER SERVICE CARD

36

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 40 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSp34-40.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:01 PM

Page 37

New and Improved Sta-Kon® Comfort Crimp® Compression Tool from Thomas & Betts The Most Comfortable Crimp Available from a Manual Compression Tool In a continuing effort to produce the safest, most ergonomically advanced tools on the market, Thomas & Betts recently redesigned the Sta-Kon® Comfort Crimp® Compression Tool. An award-winning product, the redesigned tool requires 25 percent less handle force to complete a crimp than earlier versions and up to 75 percent less handle force than similar tools on the market.

Additional ergonomic features include special over-molded handles that naturally place the hands in a safe, strain-reducing position, while creating a soft cushion for both fingers and palms. A new Crimp-Assist® foot stabilizes the tool when the user needs to place it on a work surface for additional leverage to crimp larger connectors.

In addition, the patented Shure-Stake® mechanism ensures a complete crimp cycle is made before it will release to the open position. The Sta-Kon tool also incorporates interchangeable dies with color-coded die nests for easy matching with Sta-Kon insulated terminals.

“T&B is committed to creating the best user experience possible in terms of comfort and strain reduction,” said Matt Willard, product manager with Thomas & Betts. “Equipment manufacturers, maintenance professionals and field technicians have come to trust and rely on the Sta-Kon compression tool for a safe, constant crimp every time.”

Sta-Kon Comfort Crimp Compression Tools are UL Listed for use with Sta-Kon connectors. Similar Sta-Kon tools are available for terminals, flags, ferrules and disconnects ranging from 6-22AWG with both insulated and non-insulated jackets.

For more information, visit www.tnb.com

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 41 ON READER SERVICE CARD

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 42 ON READER SERVICE CARD

October 2010 • epsmag.net

37

1010EPSp34-40.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:02 PM

Page 38

Product FOCUS

AEMC® Introduces Its NEW MTX 100,000-Count Digital Multimeters AEMC® stands apart from the competition with its’ new high end, hand-held graphic MTX Mobile Multimeters, offering a resolution of 100,000 counts, 0.02% basic accuracy and up to a 200kHz bandwidth. Their unique design, featuring a multi-position screen and push button function selection, makes this range of multimeters ideally suited for both benchtop and hand-held use.

The power supply system is equally innovative, offering all the benefits of a modern instrument, with rechargeable batteries for on-site use and an AC power adapter doubling as a battery charger for lab use. This prevents the instrument from shutting down due to low power during measurements over long periods. The new smart Wall Plug power pack reduces the average charging time of the batteries which have approximately 50% more capacity than the original models. The MTX Mobile Multimeters also give a precise indication of the batteries’ remaining capacity. Two 1.5V AAA rechargeable batteries are included.

For more information, visit www.aemc.com

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 43 ON READER SERVICE CARD

38

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 44 ON READER SERVICE CARD

1010EPSp34-40.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:02 PM

Page 39

Introducing New SAVANT Occupancy and Vacancy Sensors from Cooper Wiring Devices SAVANT Sensor Switches and Dimmers Expand CORE™ Lighting Control Line with Industry First Features Cooper Wiring Devices, a leading electrical wiring device manufacturer for industrial, commercial and residential applications, introduces SAVANT, a new line of best-in-class passive infrared (PIR) occupancy and vacancy sensors for the CORE™ Lighting Control line.

This new product family of sensors includes switches, dual switches and dimmers, in both occupancy (Auto ON/Auto OFF or Manual ON/Auto OFF) and vacancy (Manual ON/Auto OFF only) versions. Vacancy sensors comply with California’s updated Title 24-2008 energy code.

SAVANT occupancy (OS310U-x / OS310R-x) and vacancy (VS310U-x / VS310R-x) sensor switches and dual switches can be wired as single-pole or three-way (simply use 3-way switch or an additional sensor), and carry a 1000W (1/2 HP) rating. They work with all popular load types including incandescent, magnetic low-voltage, fluorescent, CFL and LED. Users will benefit from an industry first selectable LED nightlight with a convenient dimming function for customizing each room’s specific need (increased light level for safety or decreased to reduce spill over in to hallways and rooms). Furthermore, the PIR lens is color matched to the device housing and provides a 180-degree viewing angle for 1,000 sq. ft. major motion coverage (450 sq. ft. minor motion). The SAVANT dual switch option enables control of two independent lighting loads (lamp or fan), ideal for bathrooms.

For more information, visit www.cooperwiringdevices.com

October 2010 • epsmag.net

39

1010EPSp34-40.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

7:02 PM

Page 40

Advertiser INDEX This advertisers index is compiled as a courtesy to our readers. While every effort is made to provide a complete and accurate listing of companies, page numbers and reader service numbers, the publisher is not responsible for errors.

Company

PG#

RS#

Company

ACR SYSTEMS AEE SOLAR AEMC INSTRUMENTS ARPI OF USA ARROW FASTENER COMPANY LLC BYTE BROTHERS CONDUIT REPAIR SYSTEMS CONDUX INTERNATIONAL COPPER DEVELOPMENT ASSOCIATION EVERGREEN SOLAR EXTECH INSTRUMENTS/FLIR SYSTEMS E-Z METER GENERATOR INTERLOCK TECHNOLOGIES GENSCO HELUKABEL USA, INC. HIOKI USA ICC KING INNOVATION

30, 36 15 IFC 37 12 18 4 16 23 31 3, 9 37 10 24 5 27 19 33

36, 40 13 1 41 30 32 6 31 17 21 5, 9 42 10 34 7 19 15 22

KRENZ & COMPANY MEGGER NORTHWEST LIGHTING SYSTEMS ONTILITY LLC PG LIFELINK PHASE-A-MATIC PHILIPS CAPRI SOKKIA SOLARWORLD CALIFORNIA SOLMETRIC CORPORATION STEELMAN INDUSTRIES STRIP-TEC THE HOME DEPOT UNDERGROUND DEVICES UTILITY METALS VERVE LIVING SYSTEMS YOKOGAWA CORPORATION

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 45 ON READER SERVICE CARD

40

Electrical Products & Solutions • October 2010

PG#

RS#

38 11 25 21 29 38 13 7 BC 28 36 22 1 35 40 IBC 17

43 11 18 16 20 44 12 8 3 35 39 33 4 38 45 2 14

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/12/10

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 2 ON READER SERVICE CARD

10:12 AM

Page C3

1010EPSpFullPages.qxd:Company Spotlight

10/9/10

FOR FREE INFO, CIRCLE 3 ON READER SERVICE CARD

7:29 PM

Page C4