Smart Electrician | Issue ONE 2016

Smart Electrician

Smart

Lighting systems

The

LED revolution

Amazon Echo allows

voice control

of lighting & switches

it’s digital & limited only by

imagination!

LED lighting can now send

Exciting

Smart Electrician magazine | 2016 ISSUE 01

The Internet of Things for Electricians

Reinventing

LEDs with nanotechnology

promotional messages to

shopper’s mobile devices

Lighting

Philips Hue integrates with

Apple Watch

to instantly deliver

personalised

lighting experiences

www.osram.co.uk/led

Light is atmospheric Simply dim for a warmer colour temperature – GLOWdim LED lamps Because for us, only better will do

Light is OSRAM

www.osram.co.uk/led

From warm white to extra warm white just by dimming The new OSRAM PARATHOM® ADVANCED GLOWdim portfolio features atmospheric colour temperature dimming and therefore offers direct alternatives to incandescent and halogen lamps.

Cosier lighting by changing the colour temperature PARATHOM® ADVANCED GLOWdim LED lamps can be dimmed to reduce the brightness in a room, and at the same time their colour temperature changes from warm white to extra warm white. This special feature means that by simply dimming 2 them you can enhance your interior design and give a room a cosy atmosphere.

Features — A warmer colour temperature at reduced luminous flux – from 2,700 K to 2,000 K — Long life of up to 25,000 hours — Energy savings of up to 90% compared to corresponding incandescent or halogen reflector lamps — Simple replacement thanks to the same base and compact dimensions — 5 year OSRAM guarantee 1 — Compatible with a wide variety of commercial dimmers 2 OSRAM PARATHOM® GLOWdim lamps are ideal for: — Hotels and restaurants — Residential properties

1 2

For detailed guarantee conditions go to www.osram.co.uk/guarantee LED lamps can be operated with a wide variety of commercially-available dimmers; details and results of compatibility tests can be seen at www.osram.co.uk/dim and in the additional technical product information sheets linked there

GLOWdim Item name

Product number (EAN)

PARATHOM ADVANCED GLOWdim CL A60 frosted

4052899943360

8,5

60 W

806

2.700–2.000

80

111

60

25.000

A+

PARATHOM ADVANCED GLOWdim CL B40 frosted

4052899943377

6

40 W

470

2.700–2.000

80

105

38

25.000

A+

PARATHOM ADVANCED GLOWdim PAR16 48

4052899938700

5

48 W

330

2.700–2.000

80

58

50

25.000

A+

PARATHOM ADVANCED GLOWdim MR16 33

4052899938694

5

33 W

330

2.700–2.000

80

50

50

25.000

A+

Replacement for

To request a brochure or discuss your LED requirements call us today on 01744 812221

Here we go again... this time with smart lighting!

We present the first issue of ‘Smart Electrician’ of 2016, designed for all of you who want to go beyond traditional electrical installation and delve into the exciting world of new technologies that are already changing our world.

Smart Electrician The Internet of Things for Electricians

This is the world of the Internet of course, but also that new buzzword, the Internet of Things (IoT), its industrial counterpart, the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT), as well as smart and connected LED lighting, OLED displays and other marvels.

There are also some new and potentially very exciting ways of making LEDs much more energy efficient. This involves nanotechnology techniques and you’ll find out more in this issue.

Smart

Lighting systems

The

LED revolution

Our first issue of ‘Smart Electrician’ in November last year, was mainly about the almost exponentially expanding Internet of Things. Did you like it? Do tell, because without feedback, it’s sometimes hard to improve. Go to: www.voltimum.co.uk/SE to gives us your views, comments and ideas.

Amazon Echo allows

voice control

of lighting & switches

it’s digital & limited only by

imagination!

LED lighting can now send

Exciting

Other fascinating new technologies that will bring many new possibilities – including significant extra business opportunities for you – include Wi Fi wireless communication.

Reinventing

LEDs with nanotechnology

promotional messages to

shopper’s mobile devices

Lighting

Philips Hue integrates with

Apple Watch

to instantly deliver

personalised

lighting experiences

This edition is much more about smart and/or connected lighting, some also taking in the IoT. It is the very fact that LED lighting is digital that is now making the real waves. Being digital, LEDs are controlled very differently from conventional lamps – and in ways that are opening up entirely new possibilities. One of these is connectability, leading to lighting’s easy integration into the already massively growing IoT. Indeed, Philips considers lighting to be ‘the foundation of the IoT’ – well, it’s certainly one part of that foundation.

So take a look at this issue of ‘Smart Electrician’, which reports on smart lighting, the voice control of lighting and switches, the LED revolution, how lighting can now send promotional messages to shoppers, personalised lighting experiences, connecting lighting to Apple’s watch, plus that exciting nanotechnology development.

PRINT & DISTRIBUTION Voltimum UK & Ireland Ltd e: enquiries@voltimum.co.uk t: 020 7751 3900

SALES & ADVERTISING Amy Latchana e: amy.latchana@voltimum.com t: 020 7751 3902

DESIGN, EDITORIAL & NEWS Soraia Antunes e: soraia.antunes@voltimum.com t: 020 7751 3906

If you are not a member of the Voltimum community sign up for free today at www.voltimum.co.uk

6 6 Home Advantage

10

12

LED lighting can now send promotional messages to shopper’s mobile devices

Smart home design to everyone

Marie Parry, group marketing manager at Scolmore Group, examines the trend towards smarter homes, and looks at some of the options available for wholesalers.

A new LED lighting technology has been developed to give helpful tips to shoppers in addition to lighting.

ABB has vast experience providing advanced products, Free@home is no exception. ABB-free@home transforms the house or the flat into an intelligent smart home.

14

18

22

Exciting lighting

The LED revolution - it’s digital and limited only by imagination!

Reinventing LEDs with nanotechnology

The past decade has been an incredibly exciting one for the global lighting industry because of the LED revolution that is the result of affordable white LED lighting.

Conventional lighting systems are being superseded by LED systems.

And now the Internet of Things promises another revolution.

Technology is evolving at an amazing speed. Every day there are new developments and with the help of nanotechnology, lighting is set to be reinvented.

24

26

28

Philips Hue integrates with Apple Watch to instantly deliver personalised lighting experiences

As LEDs become commodity items, lighting design and control strategies come to the fore

Amazon Echo allows voice control of lighting and switches

Philips has announced that its LED‘Hue’ lighting system can now be controlled through the Apple Watch.

LED lighting products have become virtually commodity items. So where is LED lighting going?

Amazon Echo is a high quality audio speaker, but it has been designed around the human voice and starts working at the ‘wake’ word.

30

32

34

Is the IOT a threat to the DALI lighting standard?

Smart Lighting systems

An insatiable appetite for Technology

Bill Wright, Head of Energy Solutions at Electrical Contractors’ Association (ECA) talks to us regarding smart lighting systems and its rapid development in the industry.

Richard Hayward, lead marketing manager for Legrand’s wiring devices business, addresses smart technology adoption and the effect this is having on our everyday lives.

36

39

41

Sustainable technologies can mean very significant new business opportunities for electrical contractors

London voted World’s third ‘smartest’ city

Cooler’s making for hotter…

The DALI lighting protocol has been around since 1984 and has become widely used. But with the ‘Internet of Things’, is a big change afoot?

Want new business? Take a look at the opportunities presented by the latest ‘green’ technologies.

A new study has placed London third in a table of global ‘smart’ cities 2015, with Barcelona taking the top spot.

Find out what it takes.

In which fast rising demand for air conditioning and refrigeration – rather than merely ventilation - is going to make our world still hotter. A contradiction? Unfortunately no!

Home advantage!

Marie Parry, group marketing manager at Scolmore Group, examines the trend towards smarter homes, and looks at some of the options available for wholesalers.

Worth around ÂŁ65 million in 2011, the UK home automation

Forecasts indicate that the pace of growth will increase

market by the end of 2016 will be worth some ÂŁ156 million

over the next five years as the UK home automation

at DSP (Distributor Selling Price). In terms of volume, this

market becomes more established. This can be partly

equates to around 37,000 systems installed. This growth is

attributed to growing concerns about energy efficiency

being driven by the rapid advance in technology, which

and the environment and technological developments

is bringing intelligent automation systems to a growing

that will make home automation system products

number of homes and work places, allowing control of

cheaper and easier to use.

everything from lighting, heating, communications and entertainment.

Fewer than 0.1% of UK homes currently have a home automation system installed (this compares to around

6

Home automation technology has been available for

5% of residential homes in the USA). Although small, the

many years but demand for systems in the UK have

penetration of home automation in the UK is growing

until recently been largely limited to luxury homes and

almost exponentially for both new and existing housing

specialist projects. However, with declining costs and

stock. In terms of importance, access and security control

complexity, plus greater awareness of system benefits,

continues to be the most popular application area for

industry experts predict that home automation is set to

home automation, followed by multi-room audio, home

become one of the fastest growing markets in the UK.

theatre, climate control and lighting control.

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

The further development of super-fast broadband

For instance, central heating systems, rather than

services is likely to support demand for home automation,

heating the whole house, can be split into different zones

with new and improved products taking greater

so that rooms or areas are warmed as and when they

advantage of digital technology. These will deliver a

are required. In the same way, lighting systems can be

better and more efficient service to the homeowner.

controlled so that the right light output is delivered when and where it is needed.

Continued growth in this market sector will depend on the extent that home automation technology becomes

Wireless control

affordable and accessible to the mainstream market.

Declining prices and the increasing availability are likely

To enjoy the benefits of home automation in an existing

to accelerate market demand for these systems.

dwelling but with minimum cost and disruption, a wireless system is the answer. Complete control of the heating,

No longer the preserve of the rich and famous, the smart

lighting, shutters, blinds, gates, garage doors and

home is becoming accessible to us all and a raft of new

appliances is achievable without the need for additional

products, specifically designed to enhance our lifestyles

cabling or cutting into walls.

and save energy, is now available. Electrical wholesalers and contractors are in a prime position to take a share of

Receivers are simply fitted behind the light fittings or

this growth by understanding the products and systems

into suitable installation boxes and the transmitters are

available.

powered by battery, so require no additional power supply.

Whether the project involves updating an existing wiring system, or is the start of a brand new domestic or

Once a decision has been made on which features are

commercial building project, there is a home automation

to be controlled, the system can be installed and up and

system that will deliver the right solution while meeting

running in a very short space of time. Heating, switching,

the required budget. From RF wireless control of lighting

dimming, control of shutters, window and door opening

and heating through to the all-singing, all-dancing,

can all be quickly and easily set and adjusted.

interactive multimedia systems, smart technology is certainly here to stay.

Daily and weekly switching programmes can be set and it is also possible to simulate occupancy when a house

Intelligent energy saving

is empty - setting the lights to come on and curtains to close in the evenings, for example - giving peace of

By intelligent controlling of the lighting and heating

mind.

throughout a home it is possible to make significant cost and energy savings, and this is the case with wired and

Wired for sound

wireless automation.

Operating at the other end of the market is the wired home automation - or BUS - system. This high-specification type of system allows a myriad of different functions to be operated throughout the home or the work place even where is there no-one on the premises - thanks to the remote control capability of the whole system via a computer or mobile phone.

With the click of a mouse, a quick text or the sound of a voice, any number and combination of commands can be set in motion to operate the gadgets in a home - lights switched and dimmed, heating regulated and curtains and blinds set to create the desired ambience.

It offers total control over the number of features and appliances to be managed, as well as the configuration of the controllers that will operate them - from wall switches, voice control units, touch screen panels and IR remote controls. Sensors, switches and actuators â–ş

2016 | ISSUE 01

Smart Electrician

7

Upgrade your home...

INELS wireless control and automation products by Scolmore enable you to upgrade your electrical installation to provide added security, energy saving, comfort and control without the need for intrusive and unwanted disturbance to your décor.

Retro-fit and affordable, the products can be installed to transform any building to provide numerous benefits to suit all manner of requirements, both practical and aesthetic, that will bring added value to those using the building, whether it be a home or a business.

SIMULATED OCCUPANCY

OUTDOOR LIGHTING

Leave lighting to turn off automatically when you leave for work

Additional switching for multiple use (all the family can have a key fob to put external lights on as they approach the home)

Control of lighting (both internal and external) to create simulated occupancy

Have lighting, as well as audio devices such as radio’s switch on and off during holidays to give your home that lived in appearance

LIGHTING

Automatically turn off lighting and power when you want to. Central programmer enables you to programme lighting and power seven days a week Last man out function – not sure if the upstairs lights are still on? Easily remedied by a master switch inside the front door to turn everything off when you leave and back on when you return

Automatically switch on lights via presence detectors

Providing complete control via simple solutions

EXTERNAL POWER

Providing switching for external power so that sockets on the outside of buildings are only powered when you want to use them Automatically switch on/off Christmas lighting so that it is only on when you want it to be

LIFE’S LITTLE LUXURIES

ASSISTED LIVING

Control children’s rooms to restrict use of TV / gaming etc.

Use a bell push to switch a light on for the hard of hearing

Provide timed access routes to create scenes such as “morning” or “bedtime”

Create a bedtime route that turns all lights on and off to allow the occupier to get to bed without needing to switch lights on/off

IN THE HOME

IN BUSINESS

IN THE OFFICE

COMMUNAL AREAS

Creating scenes to provide added ambience for any situation around the home

Change the use of a room – putting switches where you want them. Ideal for converting a downstairs room into a bedroom

Switches can be mounted on any surface – even glass

Provides flexibility to change an installation to meet changing requirements of the occupier

Interacts with building management systems to provide additional control

Walkway lighting (hotels and commercial properties with interconnecting buildings)

IN THE GARDEN

Wireless switching up to 200 metres

call: 01827 63454

email: sales@scolmore.com

visit: www.scolmore.com

all interact with each other to deliver the commands that have been programmed into what is effectively a bespoke system.

Because everything is set from the computer via a simple program, it is possible to change or modify the settings of any of the devices and units connected to the system – such as creating or modifying lighting mood scenes and varying the time it takes dimmers to fade up or down. It is also possible to add and extend units at any time, which means that there is ultimate flexibility to adapt the system to suit changing needs and requirements.

With the touch of a button it is possible to regulate the heating and lighting, close the shutters and gates, see who has arrived at the front door, dim the lamp in a child’s bedroom and set the coffee machine percolating. The options are endless.

Whichever system provides the required solution, what they have in common is a means of reducing costs and saving energy, and with the 2016 deadline that will require all new dwellings to be ‘zero carbon’ looming, it is within everyone’s interest to embrace the technology that is helping to shape the future of our homes and work places.

Click iNELS RF wireless system The Click iNELS Radio Frequency wireless control system from Scolmore is suitable for both refurbishment and new build projects and can be used to update an existing wiring system. Simple and flexible installation, significant energy

The Principal choice for Security Equipment*

savings and easy programming are the key attributes of the new system, and the unique one touch centralised control panel means that everything can be easily set and adjusted from this one single control panel.

Because of its flexibility, it can be easily installed

* Project support and quote support;

Offering individual or group training on products; Intruder and CCTV specialists…

into any property - with a whole house installation taking

on

average

no

more than three days. This makes it a very attractive proposition for electrical installers who can offer it

The

Principal Choice for

to their customers as an entry-level

smart

home

solution. ■

Offering individual or group training on products Project support and quote support Prime works closely with both manufacturers Intruder and CCTV specialists… and installers. This enables Prime to offer training to an individual or a group.

The range of products which Prime supply offer great potential for installers.

www.primealarms.co.uk | t: 0844 330 0013 | sales@primealarms.uk

LED lighting can now send promotional

messages to shopper’s mobile devices Adding to the seeming avalanche of ‘smart’ lighting and

helpful information depending on where they are in the

other devices that can communicate - and which are

store.

part of the ‘Internet of Things’ - is news that an LED lighting technology has been developed that not only provides light

Take a couple of examples – in one scenario, a customer

in all the right places, but also gives helpful tips to shoppers.

going into the children’s book area could receive an offer direct to his / her phone for (say) 10% off certain titles.

If you thought you’d heard it all with LED lighting, well you

Another customer browsing the science section might

probably haven’t, because here’s a new application that

receive a list of recommended reads. Many more scenarios

has very direct implications for businesses.

are possible, but the shoppers must have Apple’s Passbook App for the system to work. And, of course, they must

LED lighting technology is now being used in a bookstore

have their smartphones switched on with the geo-location

to make the whole retail space highly attractive…so far so

enabled.

good…

The high accuracy and sub-second latency means that ….but what is really different (and perhaps slightly scary)

shop customers can be pinpointed down to a one metre

is that the technology uses Bluetooth and location

section of a store’s shelving in under a second. Unlike other

information to send promotional messages and helpful

solutions that require additional infrastructure – such as Wi-Fi

tips to shoppers and book browsers. Of course, while this

hotspots or Bluetooth beacons - this software works with an

innovative lighting scheme enhances the look of the shop

existing infrastructure, which - in this particular case - is the

and makes the book covers ‘leap out’ of the shelves, it has

LED lighting fixtures.

also been designed to make customers linger longer and spend more money.

Because LED light sources now last longer than earlier LEDs, and far longer than conventional technology lamps, and

It works this way - sensors mounted directly inside the

also save lots of energy into the bargain, it now makes

lights transmit Bluetooth signals, which are received by

financial sense for lighting companies to add other features

smartphones that have the Bluetooth option enabled. Using

to the LED lamps – in addition to those we are already used

software from ByteLight, the fixtures enable the bookshop

to, such as daylight sensing and so on.

to send a variety of messages to its customers.

There’s more to come Because the sensors are integral with the LED lights, they connect to the same power source instead of relying on

This technology is likely to pave the way for a new era of

batteries, which need far more frequent maintenance and

in-store advertising, and may well also be a new frontier in

which would reduce the cost-effectiveness of a stand-

LED lighting solutions.

alone messaging system.

However, this is just the beginning, because ByteLight is also ByteLight claims to be the first to combine Visible Light

developing a technology that uses pulses of light, emitted

Communication (VLC), Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) and

from a lighting fixture, to calculate a shopper’s precise

inertial device sensors to transform LED lights into indoor

location without Bluetooth. However, as a camera is

location waypoints. ByteLight does not make the LED

needed to receive the light pulses, currently, this technology

lighting or the fixtures, but does provide the mobile apps,

only works when the customer holds a camera-equipped

and the lighting companies, with the software to integrate

smartphone in line of sight.

ByteLight into their products.

As it happens, this first bookstore application is in the USA What it can do…

– Green Apple Books, San Francisco – but the technique could, and probably will be, applied widely and in

10

The customer specific messaging is possible because the

any country. Such scenarios clearly illustrate the way in

data communicated between smartphone and the light

which digital (LED) lighting is going, because of its easy

fittings tracks each customer’s movements and sends

connectability. ■

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

2016 | ISSUE 01

Smart Electrician

11

Success

SMART

HOME design to everyone

ABB Low Voltage Products division manufactures

low-voltage

circuit

breakers, switches, control products, wiring and

accessories, cable

systems

enclosures to

protect

people, installations and electronic equipment from electrical overload.

Now, the division has come up with a new home automation system: In addition to the above, ABB Low Voltage Products division is also involved with smart building and home

automation

products

and

systems. For example, it makes KNX systems that integrate and automate a building’s electrical installations, ventilation systems, and security and data communication networks.

ABB has vast experience providing advanced products for a broad spectrum of applications in homes, public buildings, retail outlets and industrial plant. It therefore has the expertise to design an advanced yet low cost smart home system.

automation

on the DIN rail. In the second, the

has never been so easy. ABB-free@

with

home

actuators are distributed according

home is innovative home automation

to standard mounting boxes.

with which home owners and the family

blinds,

The access point enables access to

lights, heating, air conditioning and

can

easily

control

the project planning, startup and

door communication with a simple

visualisation using a PC or tablet.

operatable function - whether via

Then, the functions of the system can

switch, ABB-free@homeTouch, web

be defined and programmed by

interface, or via app for smartphone

using a ‘wizard’ which guides the user

or tablet. It is, therefore, suitable for

step by step through the required

controlling the entire technology in

programming steps. Preconfigured

the networked house.

sensor/actuator units for the flushmounted box already offer basic

This brings new freedoms, because

functions without any programming

lights

at all.

can

be

switched

on/off,

blinds moved or rooms heated or cooled from anywhere in the house

Simple to install…

- or indeed anywhere in the world, if required. As an example, such

Free@home is easy to install; only

control allows a living room to be

a few components are required - a

transformed in a matter of seconds

two-wire bus line, a system access

to suit an occasion - for welcoming

point, power supply and the desired

guests or for a pleasant evening of

sensors and actuators (up to 64 in

relaxation.

one system). It requires no additional construction measures.

It allows people to turn on their heating while still in work, so that they

In new buildings, the walls should

can return home to a nice warm

be already open for the electrical

house on a winter’s evening.

installation – which means that the bus cable can simply be added.

ABB-free@home,

the

This makes planning easy for the

house or the flat into an intelligent

electrician since the line routing does

smart home. Whether for blinds,

not determine the function.

lights, door

heating,

transforms

air

conditioning, scenes,

When carrying out the wiring, the

there is easy remote control via a

communication

or

electrical installer can implement a

switch on the wall, with the laptop

series connection, star connection

or with the smartphone. It is very

or tree structure. The system needs

convenient, extremely comfortable,

no special cable routings or its own

and importantly these days, very

installed cable ducts.

energy efficient. Only minimal costs are involved when compared with

…and easy to configure

conventional electrical installations.

Free@home How it works

can

be

made

operational in just a few steps. First the tablet or laptop is connected

12

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 02 | 2016

The heart of the system is a Wi-Fi access

with the system access point wire

point (AP), which provides access to

Wi-Fi. This starts the app on the

the outside world and coordinates

tablet or laptop and a wizard guides

the system. The various components

the installer (or user) through the

of

with

configuration and sets up the floor

each other using a two-wire bus

ABB-free@home

interact

plans of the building. The sensors and

that supports both centralised and

actuators are inserted into the floor

decentralised management. In the

plan. All that remains to be done is to

first case the function is mounted

adjust the desired settings. ■

Future proof & easy to use home automation?

Certainly.

Free@home ® is the new easy to use home automation system. From lights and heating, to curtains and door communication. Free@home provides a quick and easy way to meet all your customer’s home automation needs.

Free@home® is also totally user-friendly - you’ll be ready to use the system after only half a day’s training (which is provided free!). For more information or to book a free training session please call 0333 999 9900 or visit www.abb.com/freeathome

ABB UK. Tel: 0333 999 9900 Fax: 0333 999 9901 E-Mail: LV.enquiries@gb.abb.com

14

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

The past decade has been an incredibly exciting one for the global lighting industry because of the LED revolution that is the result of the successful development of affordable white LED lighting.

It doesn’t seem long ago – 12 years or so - that we

lighting proportion of sales will have risen to between 60

interviewed Wolf-Dieter Bopst, then OSRAM CEO, in the

and 65%. This is a massive change.

company’s Munich HQ, who said: “Light emitting diodes, particularly the white LEDs, are opening up entirely new

Moreover, financial analysts believe that the global LED

market opportunities, including general lighting in the

lighting penetration rate will reach 70% by 2020, but

medium term. The opto semiconductor market will be an

because of the exponential growth and demand for the

important cornerstone for the future of OSRAM.”

technology, this might actually grow much faster.

Apart from the internationalisation of the group, Bopst’s

However, there’s always a ‘fly in the ointment’ and in this

name is very much associated with the boosting of

case it is that high quality LED lighting costs far more to

OSRAM’s portfolio expansions, in particular, the group’s

make than the now-banned incandescent lamps, yet

entry into the opto-semiconductor market for LED

the demand is always for ever lower prices. This is causing

development.

problems for a number of bona fide manufacturers.

Yet at the same time he said that LEDs for general

In general, the current R&D drivers of LED lighting

lighting were still a decade away because they were not

development include both LED and organic light emitting

sufficiently affordable, and in this he was perhaps wrong,

diode (OLED) technologies, maximising the energy

because the pace of LED lighting development was such

efficiency these products in the market place, removing

that the technology was being applied considerably

market barriers through improvements to lifetimes, light

sooner than this. Now, of course, the revolution is still

output, colour quality and lighting system performance,

gathering place as ever more conventional lighting

reducing the costs of LED light sources and luminaires,

types – even good and efficient solutions – are being

improving product consistency while maintaining high

superseded by LED systems.

quality products. The development of suitable standards and testing benchmarks (such as Zhaga, IEC 62031, IEC

For example, in its latest company figures, OSRAM’s

62612, IEC/PAS 62722 and IEC/PAS 62717) is seen as

LED-based business (LED lamps, light engines and LED

being crucial.

drivers) showed substantial growth again and reached 39% of total revenue. While the company’s traditional

Then there is the LENI methodology, which promotes

business performed well, despite a still very challenging

the intuitive use of lighting controls and best practise to

environment, the market trend toward LEDs has continued

minimise energy consumption.

to have a negative impact on the firm’s Classic Lamps & Ballasts (CLB).

Good news for specifiers and installers

This situation is broadly reflected at Philips Lighting. By

From the lighting designer’s perspective (as well as those

2018, Philips’ management anticipates that the LED

of lighting specifiers, contractors and installers’), the ►

g n L i i gh t i c tin g Ex !

2016 | ISSUE 01

Smart Electrician

15

news is all good as LED lighting has really significant

possibilities and driver options are all issues that

benefits that can’t be ignored. These include a very

need to be considered before making your choice

long life indeed (if high quality LED light sources are

– conventional or LED?

chosen and if they are properly installed with the correct drivers in suitable luminaires), good quality

Many opportunities

white light with colours available if required, high energy efficiency, low total cost of ownership and

Important factors driving the LED lighting market

very high lighting scheme design flexibility, among

include the rapid growth of street lighting systems,

others. Even good dimming is now available.

the expansion of the technology into the so-called ‘smart cities’ and intelligent lighting control.

key industry figures predict that

As an example, there’s OSRAM’s LIGHTIFY, with

IT companies may take a significant

system at home or in the garden just with one app

share of the wireless lighting

product can be controlled via a Wi-Fi router and the

controls market in the future

which users can control their complete lighting via smartphone or tablet PC. Every LIGHTIFY lighting LIGHTIFY gateway.

There is also the wireless LightwaveRF system, distributed in the UK by Megaman. LightwaveRF is a range of intelligent dimmers, radiator valves, sockets

Very importantly, another LED lighting benefit is that

and sensors that are just that little bit smarter. While

it is highly energy efficient – sometimes more so

they look and work just like ordinary dimmers, valves

than more conventional very efficient light sources.

or sockets, they will change the way homeowners

Bearing in mind therefore that currently, lighting

control their lighting, heating and power.

accounts for around 19% of global electricity production, according to the International Energy

Another technology that is fast becoming very

Agency, and that two thirds of the current lighting

important is the fast expanding ‘Internet of Things’

is based on older, energy-inefficient technologies

(IoT), where just about everything can be IP- or

developed before 1970, a full switch to the latest

otherwise wirelessly connected, i.e. lighting can

LED lighting solutions would provide – it has been

‘talk’ with other devices and systems and to your

estimated - an average of 40% energy savings and

smart phones and tablets.

a big reduction in CO2 emissions.

This is happening already, with for example, Philips’ Because of these benefits, LED lighting is now

innovative Hue LED lighting system, which is now –

being very widely installed – even in domestic

proverbially-speaking – in bed with Google’s Nest

homes – and there is a drive to install them into as

smart thermostat and security devices.

many applications as possible that previously used conventional lighting technologies.

So wireless networking technologies are bringing intelligence to a new generation of smart lighting. It is

16

Smart Electrician

However, LED lighting technology is not, in fact,

partly for this reason that key industry figures predict

suitable for every application. Required illumination

that IT companies may take a significant share of

patterns and coverage, desired lifetimes (not

the wireless lighting controls market in the future –

all LEDs last as long as others, depending on

possibly as part of the IoT. LED based lighting devices

price, application and colour), confusion about

combined with wireless technologies are changing

advertised light outputs and wattages, dimming

the market and finding good opportunities. ■

ISSUE 01 | 2016

The

LED revolution

it’s digital & limited only by

imagination!

The LED revolution has ensured that the past ten years or so

has been an incredibly exciting time for the global lighting industry. This vast change is gathering pace as more conventional lighting systems are being superseded by LED systems. And now the Internet of Things (IoT) promises another revolution.

18

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

“

Why is this LED revolution taking

output, colour quality and lighting

place? It’s for many reasons. One

system performance, and reducing

is that - bearing in mind lighting

the purchase costs of LED light

accounts for around 19% of global

sources and luminaires. Then there is

electricity production (according to

the rapid growth of LED street lighting

the International Energy Agency),

systems.

and that two thirds of the current lighting is based on older, energy-

Another important task – with a

inefficient technologies developed

number of advanced and reputable

before 1970, a full switch to the latest

manufacturers taking key roles – is to

LED lighting solutions would provide

improve product consistency while

massive energy savings. These, it has

maintaining high quality products.

been estimated, would average 40%,

‘Binning’ is one aspect of this and is

with a corresponding big reduction in

crucially important. As Philips Lighting

CO2 emissions.

has

noted:

‘During

production,

LEDs will vary in colour, flux and The major lighting companies that

forward voltage and this is also true

do most of the LED research – such

for products from the same batch.

as OSRAM, Philips and Megaman –

The differences are significant and

have seen very substantial growth

therefore LEDs are measured and

in LED modules, lamps, light engines

delivered to the market in subclasses

and drivers over recent years, despite

or groups called bins and this process

an

of segregating LEDs is called binning.

often

challenging

financial

environment, while financial analysts believe that the global LED lighting

‘So a particular bin may contain

penetration rate will (possibly very

LEDs, which emit light within a range

conservatively) reach 70% by 2020.

of wavelengths, range of flux values

OLEDs future applications will also include car dashboard displays, ‘billboard’ displays, and certain types of flexible lighting systems for homes, retail and offices.

and also the range of forward A downside for the serious lighting

voltage that can be applied safely

manufacturers is that LEDs are now

to the LEDs. For instance a bin might

becoming virtually commodity items,

only contain LEDs having Max - Min

with many suspiciously low-cost items

dominant wavelength in the range

on sale from across the world. While

of 587 - 584.5 nm (i.e. a range of 2.5

high quality LED lighting costs far

nm, thereby guaranteeing colour

more to make than the now-banned

consistency) and LEDs emitting flux

incandescent lamps, the demand

in the range of 6.3 - 8.2 lm (thereby

is always for ever lower prices. This

ensuring that LEDs in the bin have

is causing problems for a number of

similar brightness) and the same LEDs

bona fide manufacturers.

must have their forward voltage in the range of 2.31 - 2.55 volts (thereby

The latest trends

ensuring that when LEDs from the same bin are electrically connected

Currently, the main R&D drivers of

the applied voltage will not destroy

LED

any LEDs)’.

lighting

development

have

not changed much. They include maximising the energy efficiency of

Binning is essential for the ultimate

these products in the market place,

success of most LED applications, so

removing market barriers through

a lot of work is going into improving

improvements

consistency - and this is happening. ►

to

lifetimes,

light

2016 | ISSUE 01

Smart Electrician

19

“

OLEDs – any progress?

moment and there’s no denying the excitement it is causing.

Organic light emitting diode (OLED)

LEDs also have the potential to ease pain, revolutionise agriculture, reduce traffic accidents and improve urban safety.

technology is still very much in the

With the IoT, just about everything

development phase, and progress is

can be IP - or otherwise wirelessly-

indeed being made. Even so, it is now

connected

generally recognised that even longer

example, your lighting can ‘talk’ with

term, OLEDs are likely to find only

other devices and systems and to your

niche applications, such as for small

smart phones and tablets.

and

is

being

so.

For

screen devices (smartphones, tablets, computers and some instruments),

Yet some in the lighting industry believe

but future applications will also likely

that the future is no longer merely

include

displays,

in manufacturing LEDs to provide

‘billboard’ displays, and certain types

light; because of the almost limitless

of flexible lighting systems for homes,

possibilities

retail and offices. OLEDs are currently

lighting control and the IoT – together

thought unlikely to compete with LEDs

with LEDs, which are of course digital

(or traditional types) for most general

devices – the future instead will be

lighting applications.

much more environmental and all-

car

dashboard

offered

by

intelligent

encompassing.

Lighting and LED standards Examples include circadian lighting

The development of suitable standards

(already here), which – for example

and testing benchmarks is also crucial.

– can control the amount of blue

This

examples

light throughout the day, from a

include IEC 62031, IEC 62612, IEC/PAS

stimulating ‘biological light’ to a restful

62722 and IEC/PAS 62717 and Zhaga.

‘biological darkness’, or permanent

Then there is the LENI methodology,

digital ‘skylights’ that change in color

which promotes the intuitive use of

and intensity as the day progresses.

lighting controls and best practice to

Others include LEDs to improve your

minimise energy consumption.

health in other ways, such as better

is

continuing,

and

sleep. And LED lighting now also has a Then too there are environmental

fast-growing market in the healthcare

standards for lighting, such as Part L1a

sector for similar reasons.

of the Building Regulations (referring to dwellings), which has been in

LEDs additionally have the potential

force for some years. This is a set of

to ease pain, revolutionise agriculture,

requirements that, among other things,

reduce traffic accidents and improve

will greatly increase the use of low

urban safety. After all, the clever use of

energy lighting. It is noteworthy that

lighting (and not just LED) to boost retail

intelligence suggests that many in the

sales has been used in retail outlets and

building sector – some say over 50% -

supermarkets for years.

claim to have no knowledge of Part L1a requirements. Such findings raise

This sort of thing is important for

serious concerns.

electrical contractors and installers too, because when an LED lasts 15 to 20

Lighting becomes part of the IoT

years or more, who is going to change them often? It will be more important

20

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 02 | 2016

And then there’s the ‘IoT. The fast

to be able to work with LED lighting’s

expanding IoT is the buzzword of the

connections to the IoT. ■

Reinventing

LEDs

with

NANOTECHN

LIGHTING IS A VITAL ASPECT OF OU THE PACE OF TECHNOLOGIC

Technology is evolving at an amazing speed. Every day there are new scientific discoveries, new equipment, new developments in engineering, computer science, medicine, biomedicine, and yes, lighting too.

Lighting is a vital aspect of our existence. However the

Today,

world is fast running out of natural sources of energy

we can

including fossil fuels, meaning the need to find green

build transistors

and efficient lighting sources has become even more

that function

important.

by manipulation of individual electrons. Lighting

Nanotechnology may be a new word to many of

is no exception.

us but this technology has accelerated the pace of technological advances, shaping our world. It has also

Green lighting can blind you

contributed greatly to our electrical industry and now promises to start a new era in lighting.

CFL (compact fluorescent light) and LED or light emitting diode lights are just two of

Nanowhat?

the most common examples of green lighting sources. Despite that, as new ground is covered

Invented in 1947 - just over 60 years ago - nanoscience

in science and technology improves, the use

or nanotechnology is the study and application of

of nanotechnology to increase the efficiency of

extraordinarily small things and can be used across all

LED lighting has started to look more of a realistic

the other scientific spheres such as physics, engineering,

proposition.

biology and chemistry.

Currently, LED is efficiently replacing traditional lamps Advances in this field have allowed a huge boost in the

and conventional fixtures in external and internal areas.

development of electronics, IT and telecommunications,

Why? Because LED lighting uses only a small percentage

and have created all the equipment that we use on a day-

of energy as required by regular bulbs and they don’t

to-day basis: plasma TVs, digital cameras, smartphones,

contain any toxic metals ( e.g.. mercury) which are used in

GPS’s, DVD players and recorders, computers, laptops,

CFL bulbs. Consequently this makes LED lights more efficient,

tablets, and many other gadgets.

green, durable, and long lasting.

The use of nanotechnology is defined as the ability to

The standard bulb, for example, only has ten thousand

see and, to manipulate individual molecules and atoms.

hours of life span. This value was expanded in fluorescent

On Earth, everything is made up of atoms — the food

lamps and LED but, on the other hand, these technologies

we eat, the clothes we wear, the buildings we live and

generate a very artificial light, so white that it surpasses

work in, and even our own bodies. So can you see the

what the human eye is naturally prepared for.

potential?

That’s why, for example, the LED headlamp of a car can

22

The essence of nanotechnology is the ability to create

completely obscure the driver’s vision. But nanopower

structures with new molecular organisation.

could be the answer.

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

NOLOGY

UR EXISTENCE. NANOTECHNOLOGY IS ACCELERATING CAL ADVANCES SHAPING OUR WORLD AND LIGHTING.

Nanotech LED Lighting

This helps create an excellent picture quality, but uses only very

New nanotechnological advances can change the rules of how we manipulate light. We can use this to make

little energy, making it the primary method to be employed in devices that have display panels.

the latest devices having an unprecedented performance level.

This is encouraging news for those following the use of nanotechnology in various fields. With this

Passing electrons through nano-semiconductors, also known as ‘quantum dots,’ emits light which has

endeavour, Nanosys believes that it will be able to design LEDs in just about any colour, which will be a

many applications in fields including solar heating and

huge leap forward from the current LED displays (as well

lighting. Therefore there is a huge focus in researching

as in other electronic devices that emit stronger hues).

the use of different nanotechnologies to develop more energy efficient LEDs.

While the company has created many experimental LED lamps, these LED quantum dots will firstly be used for

Companies like Nanosys are using semiconductors of

notebook displays and TV to offer consumers a wider

remote phosphorous to develop LEDs that turn blue

range of colours. However, a larger range of colours will

light into a warmer shade of white that is similar to the

lead to inferior battery life, especially in case of laptops

currently used traditional white of fluorescent bulbs. The

and other devices etc.

phosphorous used in this experiment is created from ‘nano-materials.’

The day when nanocrystals can be ‘painted’ on flat surfaces and create paper-thin displays is not too

Since human eyes are hyper-sensitive to the colour green, the LEDs have an increased level of green that give us a false sense of brightness, without actually heightening the brightness level of the display itself.

far from now. We’ll be able to use LED to paint our walls and use any colour of our choice, rather than actual paint. Yes, truly with use nanotech, life is only going to be more exciting and, dare we say it, vibrantly colourful! ■

2016 | ISSUE 01

Smart Electrician

23

Philips Hue integrates with Apple Watch to instantly deliver personalised lighting experiences Royal Philips has announced that its LED-powered

notification on the Apple Watch will inform the

coloured ‘Hue’ lighting system that features

wearer that the lights are on as he or she arrives

personalised control via a smartphone or tablet

home, so there’s no longer any need to look for

app, can now be controlled through the new

the switch in the dark.

Apple Watch: Also through Apple Watch, precise personalisation Easy and intuitive to use, Philips Hue can now be

of the lighting is possible within the same room.

instantly accessed and controlled by a device

Whether preparing dinner, working or reading a

you wear all day every day, making certain that

book, new lighting zones can be created using

light personal to you is always at hand.

Philips Hue and Apple Watch.

“We know that light is at the heart of the digital

As a part of what Philips calls ‘a seamless

home,” said Eric Rondolat, CEO at Philips Lighting.

ecosystem’ covering bulbs, lamps and controls,

“With Apple Watch you can instantly adapt

as well as integration with the Apple HomeKit,

Philips Hue lighting to suit every moment and

Hue offers new lighting experiences that are

occasion. Together we are making personalised

personal.

lighting simpler and more accessible through the convenience of Apple Watch.”

From functional white light recipes that help people to relax or concentrate, to creating their

Apple Watch uses the widgets from the Philips

own light scenes using a favourite photo, to

Hue app to control the lights in the home and

syncing their lights to their TV via one of over 230

activate the occupants’ favourite light scenes,

third-party apps – with Hue, the possibilities are

ensuring that they have the light that they want

limited really only by imagination. It’s all part of

wherever and whenever they are in the house or

the rapidly developing Internet of Things.

other building.

The Philips Hue starter kit, comprising three Hue If a homeowner or a building occupant has

bulbs and a bridge, will get those interested

‘Geofencing’ activated on his/her iPhone, a

going. ■

2016 | ISSUE 02 24

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

Smart Electrician

24

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As LEDs become commodity items, lighting design and control strategies come to the fore

Another excellent attribute to emphasise is the ability of LED lighting to allow extreme or otherwise highly imaginative lighting products and schemes – delineating bridges and buildings, embedded into building fabrics, highly sculptural luminaires, woven into textiles – it’s really only limited by imagination (and sometimes money). And all of this is here now…it will only grow… …so, while new LED lighting developments still come thick and fast, the LED light source technology might – whisper it – be becoming almost mature, so what else

Although LED light source development is continuing

is coming along?

strongly, we’ve become used to these amazing devices. Indeed, it can be argued that they’ve

Latest developments and trends

become virtually commodity items. So where are the obvious developments? And where is LED lighting

The question of choice – what to look for, especially

going?

as there are an awful lot of very poor quality LEDs on the market.

LEDs for white (and indeed coloured) lighting are now becoming almost ubiquitous, being increasingly

I know, as I’ve experienced them. I’ve had LED

installed into as many applications as possible that

downlighters

previously used conventional lighting technologies.

flickered continuously and others that failed in less

This is starting to take place even in peoples’ homes.

time than the old halogens did. I’ve had to learn too –

that

(sometimes

but

not

always)

only buy high quality LED light sources from reputable I, for example, have eight LED downlights installed and

manufacturers like OSRAM, Philips, Megaman and

an OLED decorative light panel, plus a set of three

General Lamps (among others). Only purchase

Philips Hue LED lamps - wirelessly controlled via an app

good quality luminaires and fittings that have been

– waiting to be fitted in my home. Many householders

designed specifically for LEDs (as they must be for

are beginning to see the many benefits through

correct operation, efficiency and long life) from firms

greater exposure and better education.

like Thorn and Scolmore.

Even so, the first cost of good quality LED lighting is

Connected LED lighting systems are set to change the

still considerably higher than conventional lighting,

future of illumination forever

so the benefits of LEDs to householders should be emphasised by installers, especially in terms of their

In terms of the latest LED lighting technologies, these

total cost of ownership (deriving from a very long life

include ever greater functionality and controllability,

and low energy consumption), which is where the real

often via smartphone or tablet apps (examples

money will be saved.

include OSRAM’s Lightify and Philips’ Hue, which are still generically the ‘connected future of

Other benefits that need amplifying are the no-flicker

lighting), greater connectability as part of

instant start-up, the controllability and connectability

the IoT, integration into building structural

of some lighting systems as part of the fast growing

elements, fabrics and other substrates, ever

Internet of Things (IoT), as well as special dimming

more innovative, imaginative and stylish

options and colours for mood changing.

luminaires, plus dimming to warm.

The benefits for professionals – retail outlets, the

Since for professionals, light angle and

hospitality industry, public buildings, local government

intensity of light is far higher in demand

and industry – are also extensive. A low total cost

than colour temperature, LED lighting

of ownership is again key, but so is the good,

designs are starting to reflect this.

highly directional light, the reduced maintenance

There is also Chip On Board (COB)

requirement and toughness (not easy to break), as

technology,

well as special attributes such as LEDs being ideal for

simple for the installer by reducing

use at very low temperatures.

the install-time. ■

which

keeps

By James Hunt, voltimum’s Editor

26

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

things

Regulation 421.1.201 in Amendment 3 to the wiring regulations is not just about non combustible enclosures for consumer units, this new regulation requires non combustible enclosures on similar switchgear assemblies too. “Similar switchgear assemblies� includes switchgear that is used for the same fundamental purpose as consumer units i.e. circuit protection applications within domestic household premises. This is why Wylex have introduced several additions to their Amendment 3 range.

As well as the NM range of consumer units there’s the range of Meter Cabinet Consumer Units (previously known as Skeleton Units) in full non combustible all metal enclosures. These bespoke units are designed for use in high rise, and similar applications where the electricity meter is housed within a cabinet outside the dwelling and the consumer unit is located in the same enclosure in the space above the meter.

In addition there is a brand new range of Domestic Switch Fuse Units in all metal non combustible enclosures.

These products are used wherever large buildings are being converted into several apartments. These are ideally suited for sub main circuit protection applications in 60A 80A & 100A ratings.

To further enhance the fire safety standards that are intended by regulation 421.1.201 Wylex, has introduced a range of accessories including intumescants, flame retardant grommets, non combustible blanks & mains tails glands All Wylex domestic circuit protection units meet the requirements of the relevant product standards (BS EN 61439) and the latest requirements of BS7671 Wiring Regulations including Amendment 3.

For further information where you can find contact details for your local Wylex Sales Engineer go to www.electrium.co.uk, or follow @ElectriumNews

In a new ‘Internet of Things’ coupled with home automation and Cloud move, Internet giant Amazon Echo has unveiled its latest innovation - support for Philips Hue and other products, such that you can activate lights and switches using nothing but your voice.

28

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

Hot on the heels of the Amazon Echo

lamp (or lamps) on before rising

network without requiring human-

voice-activated speaker, comes

from bed, turn on the fan or space

to-human or human-to-computer

the next stage in the product’s

heater while reading in a favourite

interaction. This can be achieved

evolution. Now, in addition to its

chair, or dim the lights from the

locally or from around the world.

initial music duties, the unit can

settee to watch a film – “all without

accept

lifting a finger ...or even raising your

Amazon Echo, therefore, relies

voice”, says Amazon Echo.

on

spoken

commands

to

enhance home automation – and one of the products it works with is

ubiquitous

computing

and

smart home technologies, so its

Philips’ Hue LED lamps. It also now

Being Bluetooth-enabled means

efficiency ultimately depends on

works with Belkin WeMo home

that the system can stream a user’s

its compatibility with third-party

automation

chosen music services like Spotify,

products – such as Philips’ Hue.

gadgets,

including

light switches.

iTunes, and Pandora from his or her smartphone or tablet.

Google’s

Philips’ Hue is the connected

Nest

is

yet

another

example of the IoT trend, with its

lighting system that can become

Moreover, the system continues

wirelessly-connected

an integral part of its users’ day-to-

working when the user is away

and alarms, Philips Hue, plus LG

day lives, being able to respond to

from home, so - with the free

smart fridges recently added to its

alarms, timers, alerts and moods.

companion

‘Works with Nest’ programme.

Using Hue, householders can even

Android, iOS and desktop browsers

link to data feeds so that these

- users can easily manage their

The smart devices that are part

innovative coloured LED lights can

alarms, music, shopping lists and

of the IoT are growing in number

tell them – for example - when

more.

same

fast, and one prediction is that by

they receive an important email.

companion app enables simple

2020, there will be at least 50 billion

And now, using Amazon Echo’s

set up to the home network.

devices connected to the Internet

app

Importantly,

on

Fire

the

OS,

newest incarnation, Hue can now

thermostats

(some say this is very conservative

be operated using the voice.

How it works

Once Hue and the other devices

The system is simple in essence and

that

Echo

in use, yet doubtless complicated

There are, of course, potentially

are connected to a home’s WiFi

in practice. Amazon Echo works

big

system, an easy ‘discover my

via an array of seven microphones

contractors

appliances’ routine automatically

under its light ring. These sensors

wholesalers too – not least because

matches the devices to that they

use beam-forming technology to

many of the devices are consumer

will communicate together. Then,

‘hear’ the user from any direction.

items designed for retail outlets

all that is needed to operate them

With enhanced noise cancellation,

and are simple for householders

is to utter suitable phrases.

the system can hear users ask

to install. However, the market will

questions even while music is

be so huge that there should also

Amazon Echo is a high quality

being played. On-device keyword

be very real business benefits for

audio speaker, but it has been

spotting detects the wake word,

the professional electrical sector.

designed

human

when the system lights up and

We’d like to hear your views on this.

voice. It’s always on, so all users

streams audio to the Cloud. There,

have to do is ask for information -

Amazon Web Services recognises

news, weather, music and more.

it and responds to users’ requests.

and it’s more likely to be 200 billion).

work

with

Amazon

around

the

The system starts working as soon

implications

for

and

electrical installers;

Where’s the catch?

Is there, indeed, a catch? Well,

as it detects the ‘wake word’.

Part of the Internet of Things

The system’s intelligence is in the

Looked at along with the growing

everything ‘talks’ to almost every

Cloud, running on Amazon Web

numbers of devices it will work with,

other thing and to people too,

Services, so that it continually learns

such as Hue, Echo is also part of the

there is another issue here as if you

and adds more functionality over

‘Internet of Things’ (IoT), the fast

want to buy Amazon’s Echo, you’ll

time. The more Echo is used, the

growing scenario in which objects,

need to buy one through eBay.

more it adapts to a user’s speech

animals or people are provided

But be prepared to pay extra for

patterns, vocabulary and personal

with unique identifiers and the

the privilege - around £220 on the

preferences. Users can switch a

ability to transfer data over a

auction site. ■

apart from very real concerns about security in a future where

2016 | ISSUE 01

Smart Electrician

29

The DALI lighting protocol has been around since 1984 and has become widely used as a standard throughout the world. But with the ‘Internet of Things’ now expanding fast, how will DALI fit into the lighting scheme of things?

Smart control of household lighting as part of building automation and the smart home has been a dream and even a sometimes difficult reality for over 50 years, but the Digital Addressable Lighting Interface (DALI), accepted as an international standard in 2002, has made things a lot easier.

DALI is the now well-known data protocol and transport mechanism that was jointly developed and specified by several

Is the

IOT THREAT a

to the DALI lighting standard?

manufacturers of lighting equipment, including Philips Lighting.

DALI’s common platform enables lighting equipment from

Some think so. But why? This is because of a number of reasons,

different manufacturers to be connected together.

but one is that the IoT is likely to result in the lighting industry moving towards having far more proprietary protocols that are

The capabilities of DALI lighting controls are ideally suited to

not interoperable or have much less interoperability than DALI.

commercial buildings - particularly hotels - but an increasing

With many of the devices (‘things’) being wireless, this doesn’t

number of large domestic homes have also turned to DALI for

help either, as there is a plethora of wireless standards (Bluetooth,

lighting control. There are many and varied reasons for DALI’s

ZigBee, 6LoWPAN, EnOcean, Z-Wave and many others).

success, but possibly the most important of these is that it is an ‘open’ protocol that allows for many different vendors to be

There also are many other choices for IoT lighting controls – what

involved – indeed, its interoperability is huge.

hardware platform to use? Will the system be wired controls (still common for industrial and commercial lighting systems)? Or will

So, it might be thought that the future for DALI is rosy – and it

the customer want a wireless standard? If so, which? This can

certainly should be – but with the onset of the IoT, will DALI’s

be a serious issue, although over time some of it is likely to be

future be quite so rosy?

resolved.

The IoT and what it means

Some of the above choices mean that there’s a potential threat to DALI longer term; that’s what many in the industry believe,

One definition of the IoT is that it is a network of physical objects

but others feel that this threat is exaggerated. This is because

(or ‘things’), each endowed with electronics, software, sensors

of DALI’s openness, which is a crucially important benefit, and

and connectivity that will together enable it to achieve greater

because DALI also provides excellent failure feedback (for

value and service by exchanging data with the manufacturer,

example, providing notification of failed lamps and ballasts, and

operator and / or other connected devices.

their positions). Other systems often have a hard time achieving this. DALI is also quite simple to install, which is not always the

To achieve this, every ‘thing’ - which could be an LED light source

case with products and systems running on other protocols –

or luminaire, or thermostat, for example - must be uniquely

even wireless.

identifiable through its embedded computing system, yet it must also be able to interoperate within the existing Internet

Another fear is that with the burgeoning IoT, in which mega

infrastructure. Such devices already exist and are becoming

organisations like Google are fast getting in on the act, it

available at an ever-faster rate.

becomes ever more likely that the future of lighting controls will increasingly depend upon people outside the lighting industry

Typically, the IoT covers many protocols, domains and

who do not understand it. This is a very clear and important

applications, and offers advanced connectivity of devices,

worry.

systems, and services that goes beyond machine-to-machine (M2M) communications. These are very important benefits, yet

But DALI still holds first place

those many protocols and domains can pose tricky compatibility issues.

Even so, while this implied IoT threat has become an important topic in the lighting sector over recent months, many lighting

Will the IoT damage DALI?

experts agree that DALI is far from dying and is improving all the time. For example, DALI 2 is a real improvement over DALI 1,

30

The technology to provide the ‘domestic lighting meets IoT’

but many more improvements will follow, with still better cross-

solution is even now available, but there are also many practical

manufacturer functionality. Even so, the general consensus of

implementation questions. So, with IoT lighting devices and

opinion seems to be that DALI will have to evolve in line with the

systems starting to become more widely available, does this

IoT threat (if it is a threat), if it is to survive as the lighting industry

pose a threat to DALI?

standard further down the line. ■

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

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SM ART

I don’t think that since the invention of the fluorescent tube has there been such rapid development of a lighting product than the LED lamp & its associated control systems!

LIGHTING SYSTEMS Today’s LED lamp is virtually unrecognisable from

office. Electricians will have to learn new skills to

the tiny indicating lamp that first entered the

keep up with the latest developments, as they

scene, mounted on circuit boards, and which was

may find they need to wire data cables rather

used primarily as a condition indicator rather than

than mains voltage cables for lighting systems.

for illumination. These lights consumed a fraction of a watt and had a reputation as a high speed

In many cases, equipment can be prefabricated

fuse if you connected them incorrectly!

and simply plugged into luminaires, significantly reducing luminaire installation times. This DC

The latest developments use LEDs as high power

distribution could also be extended to other

flood and spot lights, where the lamps are rated in

appliances round the office and home. Most

tens of watts. Today, the price and performance

PCs and TVs can run on DC inputs, so we may

of LED luminaires is such that it finally begs the

soon see a DC distribution system in offices and

question ‘why anyone would still choose an

homes, with mains power only for those pieces of

incandescent lamp for illumination’?

equipment which require higher power. Standards are currently being considered for DC distribution

Hand in hand with the development of the LED

in buildings.

lamp has been the incredible progress with control gear and LED drivers. The early systems had many

Modern control gear has also revolutionised the

faults, including high leakage currents and low

information that can be gleaned from a luminaire.

power factors, but these have all been resolved

Data on power consumption and hours run can

and the modern control gear allows lamps to do

be obtained for an internet connected luminaire

many things that were on recently regarded as

with its own ISP.

impossible!

Many companies are now providing these with Think colour changing, dimming, data collection

their associated web sites where information can

and even the dissemination of information over

be downloaded and analysed. ‘Li Fi’ is also now

the web, all of which are becoming increasingly

available, where luminaires are used as local Wi Fi

common. All these can be combined with a

hotspots, and where the LED output is modulated

range of smart technologies, while the low power

to transmit data. This could be a boon in shops,

consumption of an LED also lends it to being

for example, where special offers could be

powered over a data cable. The first office blocks

transmitted to customers close to the luminaire.

are now being built with the LED luminaires that are not connected to a 230V power system but

The luminaires can also be controlled remotely to

instead, DC powered via a data cable.

provide colour change, and vary switching times and output, all controlled from external wireless

The luminaires are connected together with a CAT

controllers such as an iPhone.

5 or 6 cable and a RJ 45 plug and socket. Why run a separate mains cable when they will run on

With further improvements still likely, such as

ELV DC? The current rating of power over Ethernet

lower costs, increased capability and reduced

cable gives around 100W of available power, which can be enough to light a reasonably sized

32

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

power consumption, it’s an exciting industry to be

by Bill Wright involved in!

Head of Energy Solutions, ECA

Kevin Snowdon, Managing Director, NES Electrical

The ECA is more than a badge: it’s a valuable business benefit. ECA members can get free specialist technical advice on design, installation, inspection and maintenance as well as being kept up-to-date on the latest regulations.

ECA Membership includes, but is not limited to: • The ECA Guarantee of Work to give your customers peace of mind • Discounted training courses • Commercial contracts and legal advice on a range of issues affecting your business • Credit rating and debt recovery services • Advice on employee relations, recruitment, disciplinary matters, employment law and industrial relations • Reduced rates for BUPA cover, life insurance and pension scheme • Health and Safety advice on how to reduce risks and comply with legislation

Here to help your business. www.eca.co.uk Connect with us | ECAlive

Technology

An insatiable appetite for

In the following article, Richard Hayward, lead

part of their lives. Therefore, integrating this technology

marketing manager for Legrand’s wiring devices

with everyday home processes, through the IoT, is an

business, addresses smart technology adoption and

exciting next step.

the effect this is having on our everyday lives – and on smart homes:

Yet, lifestyle and convenience are not the only factors influencing change. A growing requirement for cost

Recent UN statistics have shown that there are a

savings and efficiencies throughout the market could

staggering 6.8 billion mobile phone subscriptions around

also be one of the biggest factors in smart technology

the world and just seven billion people. From this alone

adoption in coming years, thanks in part to the smart

it is easy to see how our world is better connected than

meter rollout.

ever before, and that the vast majority of consumers are eager to grasp its potential.

As such, the way that the UK uses energy in the home is also changing. The smart meter rollout and the

The truth of the matter is, consumers around the world

introduction of in-house display units will help consumers

have an insatiable appetite for technology which,

to visualise how and where we all use energy.

thanks to the arrival of new portable tech in recent years such as the smart phone and tablet, has helped

As the country begins to shift away from a centralised

to change the way that we live, work, and shop. Now,

energy network, and our homes become both

with an increasing focus on the Internet of Things (IoT),

generators and users of electricity, there will gradually

the possibilities for the consumer to connect everything

be a shift in perception around energy and efficiency.

in the home with a whole host of new technologies,

The intelligent home, linked to the smart grid, can

and all through smart devices, are endless.

adapt to peaks in demand and call for, or divert,

IOT

Crucially, the way we interact with technology is

energy accordingly in order to relieve stress on the grid during peak times.

changing. Rather than simply inputting a command, technology can be programmed to shape actions

It’s important to remember however that while

based on consumer tastes and experiences over time.

energy efficiency is important, the average consumer

If you consider technology in the home today, we can

doesn’t buy the latest gadget because it is efficient

set the heating to come on at a certain time because

or because it will save them money. It is our desire for

we have set the timer – the output is directly linked to

new technology, and an appetite for smarter control

us doing something.

solutions that will be key to the widespread adoption of

But, technology has moved on and has the capacity

home automation - efficiency will therefore come as a secondary benefit.

to ‘learn’ so that when you arrive home, the lights come on automatically and the stereo tunes in to your

As technology continues to develop and becomes

favourite music station - without you having to tell it to.

more integrated with current products and solutions

Much more is already possible in terms of automatic

within the market, consumers will begin to understand its

control along these lines. Indeed, it’s really only limited

true potential in terms of cost savings and convenience.

by your imagination.

In truth, smart phones and tablets have opened up a Integration through the IoT

gateway to a more connected world, which has been made possible through the IoT. The next step is two-fold;

34

Smart Electrician

Just as computers record our buying patterns and visits,

educating the market in what is possible, and secondly,

our homes too can be intelligent and alter and shift in

helping to influence change which we all have a role

order to enhance our lives. Homeowners are already

to play in. As smart home technology develops, now is

familiar with technology such as smart phones, tablets

the time for the electrical industry to make a real stamp

and smart TVs, and are increasingly expecting it to be

on the home market. ■

ISSUE 01 | 2016

Designed to exceed the new standards

Sustainability means regulation, greater efficiency and clever new technologies

36

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 01 | 2016

Sustainable technologies can mean potentially big new business opportunities for electrical contractors and installers!

Today, sustainable ‘green’ technologies are becoming ever more important in the drive to reduce CO2 emissions to atmosphere whilst saving energy and money.

Sustainability effectively means development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, and in electrical terms, it means sustainable equipment and products that can be fitted and commissioned by electrical contractors and installers into existing buildings or into modern sustainable buildings and related environs.

Such equipment is quite broad, including modern high efficiency heating systems, heat pumps, solar photovoltaic (solar PV) arrays, wind turbines, micro- and mini-CHP units, biomass boilers, fuel cell systems, whole house ventilation and heat recovery systems, ventilation fans having advanced energy saving motors, the latest energy saving lighting systems (including of course LED), as well as smart homes and buildings.

Such technologies can provide large costs savings to home and building owners, as well as helping to reduce those all-important carbon emissions into the atmosphere, and it is here that electrical contractors and installers can often find new business.

A mere six years ago, buildings accounted for about 43% of all the UK’s carbon emissions. This is reducing but so far not by that much. So buildings and other developments can also damage the environment through poor waste management or inefficient use of resources. This is such an arresting figure that both the EC and the UK Government have been trying to improve things with a raft of legislation, regulation and incentives all aimed at reducing the carbon emissions from buildings.

In this article, we look at some very clever technologies – at least one of them genuinely new – that help to reduce the costs of energy usage, part of that cost being the damage that carbon emissions cause, which have their own costs.

The EU’s strict 2020 renewable energy targets for member states are looming, yet countries such as the UK, the Netherlands and France are not currently meeting targets. CXC Global believes that this means business benefits for contractors, here

and in those other countries. Schneider Electric has been participating in the government’s £9.5m initiative to modernise the UK’s energy infrastructure so that it will be able to accommodate millions of homes fitted with solar PV and electric vehicle charging facilities.

The most recent amendments to Part L and Part F of the Building Regulations and their accompanying compliance guides are shaping ventilation design in sustainable homes.

Then there’s Dimplex’s new, innovative and simple solution for energy storage. Called Free-E, this works with the homeowner’s solar PV installation to heat the hot water cylinder for free. This clever energy management system diverts surplus energy generated by solar PV installation to the immersion heater in the domestic hot water tank. Crucially, says Dimplex, it opens up a huge market of existing solar PV users to contractors.

Two very interesting techniques concerned with energy saving, energy sharing and sustainability come from Tesla Motors, the electric car manufacturer, and a Dutch-based company, Nerdalize. The former is using its extensive electric car advanced battery expertise to branch out into energy storage.

The company’s rechargeable lithium-ion batteries will power homes and businesses to store solar energy and serve as a back-up system for consumers and businesses during blackouts. Such ‘stationary storage’ techniques will be crucial for the greater take-up of ‘green’ energy sources.

The latter, on the other hand, has devised a way to decentralise data server farms to provide free heat into domestic (and other) environments…in essence, this is a data centre spread across many homes and businesses, using their local computers as radiators. Yes, really, and it’s been nicknamed ‘nerd power’!

Take note of the IoT….

Many Smart Electrician readers will now be becoming aware of the fast growing ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT). This is a huge topic in its own right and the IoT will have enormous effects on our lives and on businesses. Suffice to say for now, that the IoT has the potential to make even larger energy savings in homes and other buildings, so it is essential to start learning about it now. ■

2016 | ISSUE 01

Smart Electrician

37

London voted World’s third ‘smartest’ city

A new study has placed London third in a table of global ‘smart’ cities 2015, with Barcelona taking the top spot.

The latest research by Juniper Research

City Rankings’ is a part – and it provides

equivalent to those produced by the

has

ranking

analysis of the highly important emerging

annual consumption of 130 million barrels

smart cities globally for 2015 are (first)

smart city landscape. Such a landscape

of oil.

Barcelona, then New York, followed by

necessarily includes smart grids, intelligent

London, Nice and Singapore. The secrets

traffic management, smart street lighting

The report found that, despite substantial

for success were the cities’ use of smart

and reduced emissions levels, as well

differences in energy market regulation

grids, intelligent traffic management and

as technological capability and social

and policy, there is a strong desire on

smart street lighting. But the Internet of

cohesion, among others. Even the fast-

a global scale to implement a ‘smarter

Things will play a major role in the smart

growing ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) is a

grid’.

cities of the future.

component.

caused by emissions reduction policies,

While London came an excellent third,

The

it was found that the leader, Barcelona,

revealed

that

the

top

National

energy

concerns,

transmission line loss and grid reliability, study

also

explores

how

a

are among the many drivers behind the

combination

of

factors,

including

need to transition to a ‘two-way’ grid,

performed consistently well across all

increases

urban

metrics and serves as an exciting model

concerns over rising levels of greenhouse

of success from which others can learn.

gases have driven the desire for greater

in

population

and

which essentially, is what a so-called ‘smart grid’ is.

efficiency in the delivery of resources and

This study, found that high levels of

For Barcelona, Juniper Research says

process execution. It is from comparisons

city

that sustainable initiatives were key to the

of all these variables that the list of the

with advancements in IoT sensors and

city’s success, while other leading cities,

top five cities was derived.

software solutions, have driven plans to

such as New York and London, still require

traffic

congestion,

combined

reduce high traffic levels through a range Global call for smarter grids

of smart initiatives.

is, the report says, ‘despite excelling in

Another of Juniper’s recent reports,

Other

areas such as technological capability

‘Smart Cities: Strategies, Energy, Emissions

grids will dramatically reduce energy

and a willingness to engage with citizens

& Cost Savings 2014-2019’, has found that

consumption in cities through rapid

through open data’.

smart grid initiatives will achieve nearly £7

smart meter deployment and intelligent

billion savings annually by 2019, through

distribution automation, and that smart

This market research firm’s pioneering

a

energy

street lighting is also expected to produce

research into key vertical markets has

consumption and emissions reductions

significant cost savings, aided by the fall

been designed to assess the effect of

in smart cities. Smart cities, which are

in LED fixture costs. Smart networked

emerging technologies, identifying the

being developed now, will be crucially

control systems will further add value.

latest trends that are rapidly changing

important to control traffic, enable fast

the global market.

data flows and additionally reduce

However, issues such as grid cybersecurity

overall energy use.

and winning over the consumer where

greater

emphasis

on

implementing

environmentally positive projects. This

combination

of

reduced

Such research includes the organisation’s ‘Smart Cities’ studies – of which ‘Smart

key

findings

are

that

smart

smart metering is concerned still need to The predicted reduced emissions are

be addressed, the report states. ■ 2015 | ISSUE 01 2016 | ISSUE 01

Smart Electrician Smart Electrician

39 39

In which fast rising demand for air

decade ago and in researching it, found

more potent as ‘greenhouse’ gases

conditioning and refrigeration – rather

a then major manufacturer of air-con

than CO2. This is a big worry indeed.

than merely ventilation - is going

systems saying, basically, that these

to make our world still hotter. A

were incompatible with fighting climate

However, what’s it to do with us? We

contradiction? Unfortunately no!

change!

are all intensely threatened by this

The Guardian newspaper recently

And you don’t have to be much of

If you don’t agree with us, just spend a

produced a whole ‘Berliner’ format

an engineer to realise that air-con

few honest hours (minutes should do it

page devoted to keeping things cool.

systems take energy to operate – a lot

actually) Googling climate change. You

of it. Just leave your car at idle and

will be shocked.

THINK GREEN

Cooler’s making for hotter…

by James Hunt, Voltimum’s Editor

biggest issue for mankind and our world.

On this one page were three lengthy

turn the air-con on full – the idle speed

articles about the problems keeping

will immediately fall with the extra

More directly to the point for Smart

things and people cool – and the even

energy taken from the engine (at least

Electrician readers, air-con systems (and

bigger problems that are being caused

until the ECU restores the original idle

I repeat, we’re not talking ventilation

by this. It’s that vexed issue of man-

speed). And your fuel economy will be

here, which is relatively benign in energy

made climate change again.

significantly worse driving with the air-

usage terms, and which can actually

con turned on.

save energy in some cases) have a

As the Guardian says in its opening

high electrical content – and some are

paragraph: ‘The world faces a looming

It’s frightening - the US apparently

specified and installed, and/or serviced,

and potentially calamitous cold crunch,

already uses as much electricity to

by Smart Electrician readers.

with demand for air conditioning and

keep buildings cool as the whole of

refrigeration growing so fast that it

Africa uses on everything (yes, really!),

So it’s relevant to our readers in several

threatens to smash pledges and targets

and India and China are catching up

ways, not least because really, this is

for global warming’…

quickly. Even in relatively cool UK climes,

old technology cooling; if we have to

air conditioning and refrigeration have

have it, then a far more efficient and

…because, of course, keeping

been estimated to account for almost

less dangerous technology is needed.

things cool with air conditioning and

20% of total electricity use.

Ideas, anybody? Heat pumps in reverse?

refrigeration takes (paradoxically to

Something completely new?

some) a great deal of energy – which is

Indeed, says the Guardian, the global

heat, mostly derived from fossil fuels. And

energy consumption for air-con systems

In any case, while we don’t live

this in turn means more carbon emissions

alone is forecast to increase 33 times by

somewhere really hot like the Middle

and more global warming.

2100.

East in summer, or uncomfortably warm and humid like Mumbai (and we can’t

Based on projected increases in

This is sometimes made worse by poor

honestly say that the people who live

population, income, and temperatures

operating practices – it’s been known,

there shouldn’t have air-con), I for one

around the world, Morna Isaac and

for example (and my brother was witness

rather like the feel of summer, of winter,

Detlef van Vuuren of the Netherlands

to this when he worked in Canada) for

hot and cold and all points in between.

Environmental Assessment Agency

certain home owners, especially in the

I like the sun on my face, but I also like

predict that in a warming world, the

days when energy was really cheap, to

the rain on my face. Being aware of the

increase in emissions from air-con

have their heating AND air-conditioning

weathers that our world can throw at

systems will be faster than the decline in

on at the same time to gain what their

use is one of the things that makes us

emissions from more efficient heating.

owners perceived as exactly the right

human…and too much air-conditioning

As a result, they further predict, the

conditions! Doh!!

at the wrong times can spoil that…

heating and cooling will begin rising

It gets worse – air-con and refrigeration

…well, that’s what I think. ■

soon after 2020 and then rocket up

result in extra CO2 to atmosphere, but

through the end of the century.

they also use HFCs and other refrigerants

combined greenhouse impact of

that often leak (or are not disposed In fact this isn’t at all new. I was writing

of properly), and which are typically

an article on air-con systems nearly a

hundreds or even thousands of times

air-conditioning ventilatiom?

2016 | ISSUE 01

Smart Electrician

41

Confused about what the Internet of Things means and how it can help you in your business?

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work buildings, such as connected lighting, will also see

with over 3,500 entries of FAQs in the Q&A area, a product

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the future.

get all this essential reading for FREE!

IoT is officially one of the world’s biggest ever IT projects.

There is a grand total of nearly 36,000 articles currently in our

In order to roll out this project, the UK will need electrical

archive. Since February 2015, we’ve had nearly two million

engineers who understand smart technology. Are you one

page views and 2,456 new registered users. So come and

of them?

network with any of our 11,200 weekly users and learn from their experience. You can also influence the content of

All this new technology means there are lots of new

articles, new releases and versions of our Partners’ products

terms and concepts to learn. But don’t worry if you’re not

and services. Become a Smart Electrician with Voltimum. It’s

completely up to speed – we’ve collated some of the

very simple indeed.

most important changes to the industry so far. And as the electrical industry is continually changing, we’ll keep it up to

Register for free today on www.voltimum.co.uk and make

date with new terms as they emerge.

your life easier. That’s what we call enlightenment. For any query, you can contact us - enquiries@voltimum.co.uk

Voltimum is THE ultimate Electrical Industry definition guide.

It is a free-access, free-content portal that gathers all the

One more thing… why not download the free Voltimum

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it takes!

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Presenting the now & future of smart solutions in the electrical industry

LIVE Helping anyone in the electrical industry to grow their business How will the IOT impact the industry and your business? Join us to understand what technologies and opportunities are here today and are coming in the future.

Industry experts will explain how you can differentiate your business and utilise the technology the biggest manufacturers, associations, and educators will be present to guide you through the business opportunities that you can take advantage of straight away.

Tickets will go quickly and space will be limited.

To ensure you attend this essential one day seminar reserve your seat now at: www.voltimum.co.uk/SmartTech

Save the date

Friday 27th May 2016 in partnership with the