Smart Electrician | Issue TWO 2016

Smart Electrician The Internet of Things for Electricians

SECU

at you r

R I fin TY gertip

s

Securing Smart Electrician magazine | 2016 ISSUE 02

new installation

opportunities Protect user data!

say security experts

BIM the basics explained

Connecting to the internet

through lighting The Feds issue an

IoT warning Internet of Things

fraud risks challenge utility suppliers, manufacturers,

users and installers!

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The Internet of Things brings benefits with risk in a smarter world So here we are with the second issue of ‘Smart Electrician’, 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 lives.

Smart Electrician The Internet of Things for Electricians

SECU

at you r

RITY

fingert

ips

Last issue we mainly looked at the latest in LED (i.e. digital) lighting and how, being digital, it lends itself towards easy and valuable integration into the inflationary universe of the Internet of Things (IoT).

Securing new installation

opportunities Protect user data!

say security experts

BIM the basics explained

Connecting to the internet

through lighting

This issue is different, as we make a return – in large part – to the IoT itself and its manifest potential and real advantages for the

The Feds issue an

IoT warning Internet of Things

fraud risks challenge utility suppliers, manufacturers,

users and installers!

world at large. This is a brave new world in which ‘connectivity’ is the ultimate key to unlocking smart devices, homes, grids and cities – which is precisely what our first article is about.

Going further, speed is of the very essence today and a recent development – essentially Wi-Fi but using light – is making super high-speed waves in the connectivity world. Called Li-Fi, we also take a look at this exciting technology here.

Other articles in this issue examine the IoT in terms of better and more convenient domestic safety, comfort, ventilation and heating control, all via those ubiquitous smartphone apps.

But it’s not all good news, it seems, because a completely connected world offers vast dark opportunities for fraudsters, hackers and the like, so in this issue, we also examine IoT security and the reduced privacy that universal connection will inevitably bring. The good news is that there are ways to address the problems – mostly to do with good housekeeping and common sense. Do take a look….there’s a series of articles on this.

But if you are beginning to feel we’ve been a bit too IoT heavy, we also cover building information modelling (BIM), which is now mandatory in the UK for all Government construction projects (and yes, smaller contractors can benefit too!), as well as a time and money saving cable management system….being ‘smart’ doesn’t necessarily mean super high-tech....just being smart….

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 a re not a sign up memb er for free today a of the Voltim um t www.v oltimum community .co.uk

….so do take a look.

CONTENTS

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10

14

Building automation, creating smarter homes for smart consumers

Eight best smart locks for your home

Welcomed in every home

The rise of the Internet of Things (IoT) promises a brave new world of connected devices, smart cities and homes, and ultimately better living.

Thanks to home automation, residents can activate their security systems and manage cameras and motion sensors remotely through a smartphone.

With ABB-Welcome, safety can be increased and comfort raised. The variety of connected devices creates new flexibility for installation and application.

16

18

20

Securing new installation opportunities The world is becoming a smarter place. This development, combined with the growth of the Internet of Things and the demand for connected buildings, should mean more opportunities for electricians.

New US rules threaten IoT development and compliance

Switch on the potential of home security and safety solutions

The IoT has global reach, but under the new FCC rules, global IoT and RF device compliance labs will be affected, raising serious business issues for the manufacturers that use them.

As the appetite for home automation continues to grow, Legrand’s wiring devices business discusses the opportunities that home security and safety solutions bring.

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24

27

The Feds issue an IoT warning

Internet of Things fraud risks challenge users, utility suppliers, manufacturers and installers!

Protect user data say security experts

Think of all of those Internet connected thermostats, lamps and myriad other devices everybody’s been getting so excited about. It turns out, that the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is worried.

Fraudsters are developing ever more effective techniques to manipulate products and services for their own ends. The IoT is no exception.

The privacy and security of many current devices and apps on the Internet of Things (IoT) should be improved. Future applications will pose more serious risks for users, according to the Online Trust Alliance.

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30

32

Connecting to the Internet through lighting

nCube home

BIM - the basics explained

by Flex Connectors

nCube Home is a small, stylish hub that is plugged directly to the broadband router. Home works as the brain of the smart home, the app allows the user to create any combination of commands.

Acronyms seem to be in plentiful supply in all walks of life these days and the construction industry is no exception. BIM is another acronym that’s destined to take over.

36

41

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Ventilation gets smart

‘Innovate and radically improve prime cost’ - too good to be true?

Drayton grants your wishes with MiGenie

Paul Cooper, UK Key Account Manager for Unitrunk, explains how the firm’s quickly installed cable management systems and cost calculator can save lots of money.

The new collection of Internet connected heating control packs – known as miGenie Wishes - add a touch of magic to your life by making smart technology simple.

Li-Fi, which has been described as the new era of wireless connections, is a method of data transmission more than 100 times faster than traditional Wi-Fi using lighting.

With the development of App control via Wi-Fi rather than complex hard-wired systems and interfaces, there is now a great opportunity for electricians to benefit from this new breed of velation system.

Building automation creating smarter homes for smart consumers Asad Zaidi, Channel Marketing Engineer, Schneider Electric

The

Things

a reality for consumers. This is also coupled

(IoT) promises a brave new world of

rise

of

with a dramatic change in customers’

connected devices, smart cities and

expectations. People expect to be in

homes,

control of their energy use, by managing

and

the

Internet

ultimately

of

better

living.

According to technology research firm

the

TechNavio, the number of connected

electrical devices in their home from a

devices is expected to pass 17 billion

single hand-held device. This marks the

in the next five years. The ability of

new era of smart, connected homes.

lighting,

heating

and

all

other

devices to connect to each other and feed important information back to us

An automated home brings together

should lay the path for a smarter, more

many control aspects including security,

holistic way of managing and interacting

lighting, temperature, audio and video

with our environments, where continual

entertainment

improvements and efficiencies can be

curtains, sprinklers etc. You can enter your

gained.

home and find the temperature perfectly

systems,

blinds

and

set for your arrival, or have the lights go For

smart

up as the sun goes down, or even unlock

thermostats like Nest and Hive have

the

consumer

market,

your front door with a smartphone;

already made waves in this regard and

the possibilities are endless. There are

hit the headlines. Drayton by Schneider

different types of systems in the market

Electric is also set to launch its smart

capable of automating a single product

thermostat with an attractive mobile app.

like cameras or heating etc., but a fully

These products enable users to control

integrated system can incorporate all of

temperature and boiler activity in their

these disparate systems and combine

homes remotely, and promote better

them into one single point of control or

energy management and efficiency.

an application. All of these connected

They are among the first products to

elements work together to make the

demonstrate the true potential value

home

of connected buildings and remote

convenient and safer for the homeowner.

more

energy

efficient,

more

access to home infrastructure, giving us the knowledge and power to optimise

However, these devices ultimately should

our home environment to best suit our

be able to talk the same language

individual preferences, reduce energy

for the connected home to run as

bills, and even alter our behaviour towards

smoothly as possible. In a similar way

energy saving and the sustainability of

to commercial building management

the planet as a society.

systems, smart devices can run on a variety of different protocols. ZigBee is a

Intelligent building systems are not just

wireless communication system built by

available for offices and commercial

the Institute of Electrical and Electronics

buildings; the decrease in the price of

Engineers (IEEE). It consumes a small

technology has made home automation

amount of power and is built on a â–ş 2016 | ISSUE 02

Smart Electrician

7

mesh network, to offer excellent range and

By integrating energy management with

communication interoperability between

other home control functions, the KNX and

devices, with no need for a complicated

C-Bus home control systems go beyond

web of wires. It saves both energy and

automation. They turn homes into smarter

raw materials, while dramatically cutting

living spaces. They let us monitor and

installation and maintenance costs.

manage our homes to maximise energy efficiency and lower energy bills, either

In mesh networks, each wireless node

locally or remotely. This also ensures the

communicates with the one adjacent

integration of any future comfort, security,

to it. Should one node fail, information is

and energy saving functions. Along with

automatically rerouted to allow devices

wireless KNX capabilities, the central control

to carry on their respective functions. This

unit can communicate with other devices via

dynamic node link redundancy contributes

a wired KNX connection. This combination

to ZigBee’s low maintenance needs and

of mobile devices and remotely operated

high reliability. Thanks to this rerouting

technology is transforming how we live.

capability, nodes on a ZigBee can ‘walk through’ walls and even communicate

From

with each other through a building’s floors.

home automation has some key benefits,

Furthermore, even when they are not in line

especially with programmable thermostats.

of sight, nodes are still able to form networks.

Turning down a thermostat by just one

Mesh networks like ZigBee and its nearest

degree can reduce heating bills by up to

competitor, Z-Wave do not experience

10%, and most UK smart/programmable

signal loss — partly because of their very

thermostats promise a reduction in heating

low-bandwidth. This makes these standards

bills of up to 20%.

an

energy

saving

perspective,

great for simple devices like window and door motion sensors, or smart lightsources

C-Bus Wiser lets you program, monitor

that only need data connections to turn on,

and operate your home’s heating and

off or set a dimming level.

air

conditioning,

lighting,

appliances,

electronics and security systems while at In a home, different systems like lighting,

home or away and adjust them according

heating and cooling can be automated to

to what you want to pay each month.

improve conservation, convenience and

Without sacrificing convenience or comfort,

safety. Households can benefit more if these

you can make smart decisions and choices

home automation systems are capable of

that can achieve savings of up to 30% on

providing the users with information on their

your home’s annual energy costs.

usage trends. Consumers can then optimise their consumption of natural resources

There’s both a growing need and desire

whilst being aware of the cost and scale of

for people to be more energy efficient

their use. Home automation systems such

than ever before. Stories regarding global

as Schneider Electric’s C-Bus Wiser Home

warming and rising energy costs are always

Control System gives homeowners an insight

in the headlines, and homeowners are

on their energy usage, thus allowing them

increasingly worried about keeping their

to reduce or shift energy use during peak

utility bills in check. However, people looking

times, saving money in return and ultimately

at installing a smart home system also want

helping electricity providers reduce load on

an element of style and flexibility, so a

the grid and improve network reliability.

connected system that can be updated and added to over time is very much in line

We are looking to drive the change in what

with people’s habits and needs.

homes can do for their owners. Together

8

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

with architects, engineers, electricians and

Energy efficiency is all about controlling your

other partners, we are bringing connectivity

habits more readily and looking for ways

to homes through solutions like the C-Bus

to lower your carbon footprint, but there

and KNX home control systems. These

doesn’t have to be a compromise with style

technologies connect a wide variety of

and aesthetics. There’s a very clear drive

devices, allowing home owners to control

towards this when so much of our lives is

everything from lighting and temperature

already integrated with technology – and

to entertainment systems — to create a

people are looking for this to be extended

perfect environment for every moment.

into their homes. ■

Designed to exceed the new standards

8

BEST SMART LOCKS for your home

One of the key selling points of a smart home is particularly important not only to families but to those who live alone or travel a lot. Thanks to home automation, residents can activate their security systems and manage cameras and motion sensors remotely through a smartphone.

Haven

How many times have you walked

them to turn on using alternate

platform and unlike many other

away from home unable to remember

schedules so that your home looks

locks listed, It is anchored to your

whether you locked the door or not?

as though there are people inside.

front door at its strongest point –

With electronic locks, you receive an

Whether you’re considering buying or,

the base. It acts as a mechanical

alert so that you can secure it even if

as an installer, recommending a smart

barrier to entry, released via

you’re away from home. There is also

door lock to a client, you should first

Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. Created by

a convenience element, as smart

know your options.

a former Army airman in Iraq,

is

a

‘preventative’

first-of-its-kind home

security

Haven also features a physical

locks (via the Bluetooth connection in your smartphone) can automatically

There are two main types available:

footplate that can release the

detect your presence and unlock your

Bluetooth-only

locks.

lock in an emergency. Made

front door for you.

Bluetooth-only locks (because of their

with steel and glass-reinforced

nature) offer more security, but at

nylon and aluminum, the Haven

the expense of many cool features.

system

(that work only during times that you

Bluetooth also generates a minor -

relentless kicking, lock bumping

specify) instead of lending keys to

but annoying - lag in the unlocking

and even a battering ram. Haven

others. You can know who entered

process.

is

It is also possible to generate passwords

your

residence

and

and

Wi-Fi

stands

compatible

strong

with

against

the

Nest

thermostat and Apple HomeKit;

synchronise

opening the door to other features,

Wi-Fi locks offer more functions such as

Z-Wave compatibility is being

such as the activation of lights or an

being able to see whether your door is

‘researched’.

alarm system. If you are travelling, you

locked in real time or telling your smart

can use the remote monitoring system

thermostat when you’re away so it

Price: $219 (£154), but only

to check every room of your home.

can enter its energy-saving mode.

available in the US

However, these are inherently less safe

10

Haven

There is also the possibility of leaving

because they’re always connected

some smart lights connected as a

to the Internet, and thus potentially

protective

open to hackers.

measure,

Smart Electrician

programming

ISSUE 02 | 2016

August Smart Lock This Skybell

that lets you answer the door, no matter where you are, BUT the key selling point of this device is its video capabilities. You can hear, see and speak to the person at your door using any iOS and Android devices. SkyBell features video

camera,

speaker,

microphone and motion sensor and sends you the video feed over Wi-Fi 4G LTE. Forget about codes

an

automatic

access

app (Bluetooth). It’s smart enough

SkyBell is a Wi-Fi enabled doorbell

a

is

control worked via fingertip or

and

temporary

eKeys,

your doorbell simplifies your life even more. The exclusive Motion Sensor launches a call even when the person at your door doesn’t actually press the button, acting as a security camera at your front door.

Price: £210

to know when you’re coming and going - it actually knows not to unlock the door if you’re passing by the house instead of going inside it. The August Smart

Goji Smart Lock

Lock, which replaces your current deadbolt lock, is a Bluetooth-only

Goji is a ‘packed with features’

lock, but to add on Wi-Fi features

digital lock for your home with its

like remote buzz-ins and real-

own on-lock welcome screen. It

time unlock alerts, all you need

works both via Wi-Fi for remote

to do is purchase the optional

control

August Connect (coming soon).

for smartphone connection and

It’s powered by four AA batteries,

fob proximity unlocking. Each Goji

and it will send a low-battery

comes with four electronic keys

alert to your phone. It also works

and two mechanical backup

with Nest. And because August

keys. However this device can

is HomeKit enabled, you can

send photos of visitors who are

control it using Siri on your iPhone,

outside the door, allowing you

iPad, or iPod touch.

to enable temporary access to a

functionality,

Bluetooth

third party. You can also use it to Price: £202.64

record all entry and exit activity.

And if you are concerned about what happens during a power outage,

you

can

lock

and

unlock the door normally. If you somehow lock yourself out without your phone – Goji maintains a customer service call centre for lockout requests.

Price: £199.99

2016 | ISSUE 02

Smart Electrician

11

Lockitron Bolt The Lockitron Bolt is the least expensive smart door lock on this list. This Bluetooth-only lock, which replaces your existing deadbolt lock, offers the basics - sensing your approach and automatically unlocking for you when you arrive home. It’s a good option for renters, as the physical lock’s

Sesame

setting can be easily matched to any key. You can add on the

Sesame’s main selling point is

optional Lockitron Bridge for Wi-Fi

its installation - just slot it over

functionality, allowing the device

your deadbolt lock, which will fit

to deliver real-time unlocking

inside the Sesame, and configure

alerts. There are no advanced

the app and voila, you have an automated lock. It syncs with the app and lets you pop open the lock, or close it, whenever you feel like it. This five-patented design works with just about any single cylinder deadbolt in the world - yes, in the world. Sesame also comes with a Wi-Fi access point - a very desirable addition to this door lock. The optional WiFi access point connects Sesame to the Internet without further draining the batteries. The Wi-Fi Access Point runs open source OpenWrt Linux and uses 2.4GHz 802.11b/g/n Wi-Fi and a Bluetooth LE 4.0 radio. It’s fully compatible with Arduino IDE v1.5.4 or later -the ideal choice to connect your Bluetooth devices to your home/ mesh

Wi-Fi

network.

Another

super cool feature is its Knock Recognition. Yep, simply knock on your phone or your door to unlock Sesame!

Price: $89 (£62.50), but only available in the US

smart home features but it does Genie Smart Lock

the job - it unlocks the door without your assistance. Lockitron

Genie Smart Lock is the new

has a beautifully rigid design, built

smart

with die-cast metal for durability.

market

lock.

The

lock

doesn’t primarily use traditional keys (but the option is there if you

Waterproof

want to). The device offers users a

electronic components, it has

system that allows them to lock or

a backlit keypad for use in low

unlock any enabled door in the

light and up to ten changeable

world using Wi-Fi AND Bluetooth.

codes

The Genie will fit traditional 54mm

user and master levels. There’s

door holes and can be removed

also

a

without a trace, making it great

with

adjustable

for both homeowners and renters

indicators for code entry, 50

- and you don’t need a locksmith

event audit trail recording, anti

to install it.

spy code encryption and low

assembly

backset,

LED

with an emergency power jump

locks is that many go through

override. It’s suitable for indoor

batteries pretty quickly. But not

and outdoor use and no external

Genie. It’s with this in mind Genie

wiring is required.

Smart Lock creators set out to design a device with all of the features needed, but much less power drain. Genie promises up to 12 months of life rather than the one month life all the other devices use. This is only possible

BLE signals, and the Genie Hub (a Wi-Fi-connected device that is part of the system) receives those signals and sends them to the user’s smartphone through Wi-Fi. This means that the lock itself is never actually connected to and searching for a wireless internet signal,

thus

keeping

consumption very low.

Price: $249 (£175), but only ISSUE 02 | 2016

deadlatch

passage,

The problem with these kind of

(BLE). The lock itself only sends out

Smart Electrician

including

protect

battery warnings as standard

by using Bluetooth Low Energy

12

seals

available in the US

power

Price: £101.96

Kwikset Kevo and Kevo Plus Your

life

With

Kevo’s

just

got

easier.

Touch-to-Open

technology you can simply leave your smartphone in your pocket or purse upon entering. The best part of this is that Kwikset Kevo is rather discreet for a smart door lock because it doesn’t look much different than a standard deadbolt - except for the ring of blue lights around it.

The Bluetooth-only lock works by touch – tap the lock, and it’ll unlock - as long as your smartphone

or

keyfob

are

nearby. Each Kwikset Kevo now comes with two physical keys, two electronic keys (eKeys) and free unlimited 24-hour guest keys (as long as they have a compatible Smartphone so they can use their phone as a key too). Extra eKeys are available.

Receive

notifications

of

lock

activity and manage the lock and eKeys with the Kevo mobile app. You can add, delete or disable eKeys from the mobile app. This single cylinder deadbolt key on the outside, or the turn of a button on the inside. The crisp, clean appearance of the ‘Satin Nickel’ finish adds to the overall look of the product and brings a modern feel.

Price: £285 each

Photo Credits: Haven Lock; Skybell: Gizmodo; Phoenix Lock Master; Candy House; Keynie; Lockitron; and Kwikset.

can be locked or unlocked by a

Welcome in every home With ABB-Welcome, safety can be increased

Giving the best perspective with the new CCTV

and comfort raised. The variety of connected

camera interface

devices creates new flexibility for installation and application. The design adapts itself to both the

ABB also introduced its new camera interface.

user and the building.

This gives greater flexibility and a better overview with up to 15 external cameras integrated into the

Next to the known quality and functionality of

ABB-Welcome system.

ABB-Welcome with remote access via the ABBWelcome App, the stainless steel outdoor station,

The comprehensive interface provides a wide

as well as the newly released access control

view. This allows alternative or supplementary

modules, ABB once again displayed its innovation

visibility angles to be implemented, because

with new products at Light + Building 2016 in

the interface processes the signals of up to 15

Frankfurt.

analogue cameras. In addition, the recorded signals can be transferred to an external DVR or TV

The ABB-Welcome Status Module

system. Even a classical video camera and dome and mini-dome camera are now available.

The

current

ISO

CD

21542

(barrier-free

construction) standard is an increasing demand

Last but not least, the new mini-system controller

to door communications. The new component is integrated into an outdoor station, into a letterbox

With only six modules width, the new ABB-Welcome

system or into the side panel of the door. The

System controller mini is said to be the perfect

module is backlit in blue or red, signalling a visitor

choice for installations where DIN rail space is

with impaired hearing when he or she is requested

limited. With only half the size of the normal one, it

to speak, when the door is opened, when the bell

is ideal for smaller installations with up to two ABB-

is ringing and also when no-one is available.

Welcome Touch panels. An efficient one-to-one replacement of old systems saves money, time

14

Smart Electrician

With the info module, the user can display the

and brings satisfaction to both, installer and end

door number, company names or opening times.

user. All this can, of course, be integrated into the

Also, it is clearly visible at night thanks to the LED

ABB-i-bus ÂŽ Building Automation system, as well as

background illumination.

into ABB-free@home. â–

ISSUE 02 | 2016

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

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!

SECURING NEW INSTALLATION OPPORTUNITIES The world is becoming a smarter place as time goes by. This

fall into the ‘nice to have’ bracket as a ‘must have’. This

development, combined with the growth of the Internet-

may be true in the domestic market, but in the world of

of-Things (IoT) and the demand for connected buildings,

commercial installations it’s a different story.

should mean more opportunities for electricians. This is particularly true in the security market, as the industry’s

In the commercial market, the end users’ increasing

innovative nature has meant that a wide range of new

focus on the overall lifecycle costs of a system – which

products and services have been developed. The big

includes product, installation, operational costs, servicing

challenge lies less in working out which of the vast array

and management costs – has meant clients are often

of products and services are ‘best’, and more in identifying

reluctant to replace access control equipment whilst it still

which add the most overall value to the end user’s security

working – unless the new system can deliver a real return

system.

on investment. But this is where the challenge lies – in explaining to and convincing the client of the benefits of

In the case of access control systems, technological

making that investment.

developments have already led to a greater involvement of IT software. With system providers driving the uptake of

This entire field may sound complicated or even unrelated

Internet Protocol (IP) and wireless technology, coupled

to current working activities, but the increasing demand for

with the wide range of intelligent objects promising

connected buildings presents a number of opportunities

to connect together, collect and compare data and

for electricians that are enhanced by the commitment

seamlessly operate these systems and services, the process

of standards bodies and manufacturers to make the

of commissioning and installing systems can start

transition to an increasingly ‘smart’ world one a simple

to sound very complex. But it doesn’t have to be.

one. But simple does not mean insecure – far from it.

In the context of access control, we could view intelligent

The integrity of security is at the heart of the IoT and is what

objects as quite simply an extension of well-established

we as contractors need to deliver - as there are several

technologies like door release, smart phones, CCTV,

security and privacy concerns that need to be considered

biometrics and motion detection. However, the rise of

and addressed when commissioning, designing and

the IoT has introduced the added complexity of making

installing a system in both the commercial and the

them work in harmony with each other through a common

domestic markets. As a result, an in-depth knowledge

language and protocol over a wireless and structured

and commitment to the right industry standards and best

data cabled installation to help determine and manage

practice is of the upmost importance – not least because

authentication to gain physical entry to a building, venue

insurance companies would be quick to question it if a

or public space.

system hasn’t been configured properly.

This is an area of the market that is predicted to grow –

With this in mind, now is the ideal time for forward-

partly because of the evolving nature of security threats

thinking electricians to prepare themselves for new

and the proliferation of mobile devices. The latter of

business opportunities by obtaining the relevant training,

the two has led to an increasing demand for greater

accreditation and understanding of this industry, so they

interaction with home systems, and with it an increased risk

are in a position to add real value to their customers and

that the end user will start to view technology that could

clients as this market evolves. ■

by Steve Martin

ECA HEAD OF SPECIALIST GROUPS AND THE FIRE & SECURITY ASSOCIATION 16 16

Smart Smart Electrician Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016 2016 ISSUE 02 |

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 The ECA operates within England, Wales and N. Ireland.

Those businesses located in Scotland wishing to consider trade association membership should contact SELECT (www.select.org.uk).

New US rules threaten

IoT development and compliance The IoT has global reach, but under the new FCC rules, global IoT and RF device compliance labs will be affected, raising serious business issues for them and the manufacturers that use them. Be warned!

A

US

commission

has

introduced

new

equipment

authorisation rules that could significantly increase the

from non-accredited 2.948-listed labs that are currently accepted.

compliance costs of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and systems across the world.

This means that under the new rules, RF equipment manufacturers currently using 2.948-listed testing labs in

Such devices and systems use the Internet and radio

non-Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) countries will

frequency communication (RF) techniques – otherwise

no longer be able to use the results to certify RF devices

known as ‘wireless’, and vast numbers of new RF devices

sold in the US. Of course, the FCC could revise the proposed

are being developed, tested, manufactured and sold

new rules so that those affected laboratories can still be

globally.

recognised.

To control costs, many manufacturers selling their IoT

Note that it is not only the manufacturers of RF-enabled

devices in the US carry out their design and regulatory

IoT devices and systems that will be affected; those that

compliance abroad.

develop and make other RF devices – such as Radio Frequency Identification Devices (RFID) will be too.

Over the next decade or so, the IoT is expected to be a

RFID technologies are, like the IoT, fast expanding in

major part of every developed and developing country

functionality, applications and take-up, but all this could

in the world, with applications ranging from agriculture

be adversely affected by the new FCC rules.

to defence. This IoT sector will require new and more advanced devices and powerful security measures, but

The rules will come into force this year, and all 2.948-listed

also more wireless broadband.

labs’ authorities will expire on July 13th, 2016. Furthermore, from October 12th 2016, no further test reports from such

New RF authorisation regs

laboratories will be accepted for devices tested before the July 13th deadline. This includes both US-based and

It is for these reasons that the US Federal Communications

foreign manufacturers.

Commission (FCC) - which regulates US interstate and international communications by radio, television, wire,

A costly change

satellite, and cable - has introduced new RF equipment authorisation rules. These, however, will significantly

The result is that manufacturers having 2.948-listed

adversely affect RF equipment manufacturers, importers,

laboratories in non-US, non-MRA countries will need to

marketers and testing laboratories.

relocate their testing facilities – a very costly exercise.

Alternatively, other expensive arrangements will have

Under the current – soon to be superseded regulations -

to be made if such manufacturers still wish to sell their

applicants for all such RF equipment certification must

products in US markets.

submit test reports prepared by either an FCC-accredited

18

or 2.948-listed laboratory. The ‘2.948’ relates to Section

The law rears its ugly head, and as an article in RFID Journal

2.948 of the FCC rules that authorise the use of those

makes clear, the new rules – which concern far more than

laboratories. An FCC-accredited laboratory must meet

just the compliance issues - are complicated in their effects,

general ISO/IEC requirements in accordance with FCC

and may result in other, possibly unforeseen implications

rules. However, the new rules, which include testing and

for IoT and RF device manufacturers – especially as the

compliance labs outside the USA - will disallow test results

market for such devices continues to proliferate. ■

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

2016 | ISSUE 02

Smart Electrician

19

THE POTENTIAL OF HOME SECURITY

WITCH O

AND SAFETY SOLUTIONS

As the appetite for home automation continues to grow, Richard Hayward, lead marketing manager for Legrand’s wiring devices business, discusses the opportunities that home security and safety solutions present to the electrician.

We live in a safety conscious society where

must also have an understanding of end-

protecting the home from external threats

user requirements and the technologies

and improving the quality of life of home

available, in order to successfully tap into

occupants, is paramount. Naturally, these

the market. For the elderly or those with small

factors have influenced the development

children, for example, something as simple

and introduction of home safety and

as skirting sensors or Passive Infrared Red

security automation products throughout

(PIR) sensors, can provide enormous peace

the

fully

of mind. PIR motion sensors, for example,

integrated controls, there is a solution for

can automatically activate lighting systems

every home and therefore an opportunity

when they sense movement – helping to

to up-sell for the electrician.

light the way to the bathroom at night time

market.

From

entry-level

to

perhaps.

What is important to remember, is that home security is about more than simply

Another increasingly popular technology,

installing an alarm in the home. Technology

across a broad variety of properties, is

has advanced and from simple standalone

door entry systems and as the technology

solutions - such as door entry systems

becomes more stylish, and easy to install,

through to a fully integrated lighting and

this trend is expected to continue. Take

CCTV solution – the opportunities are

the Bticino range of door entry systems as

endless. Likewise, gone are the days where

a prime example, on one level it provides

home automation installations were limited

people with the secure access control that

to specialists or custom installers; there are

they demand but secondly it is available in a

now opportunities for all.

ready-to-install door entry kit, using two wire technology, making it easy for electricians

The challenge for electricians, therefore, is

to install.

to start exploring the technology available,

20

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

and begin to understand the transition

It is clear that with an eager customer-

required, in order to install and programme

base looking for the latest technologies to

smart

the

safeguard their homes and families, and

budding smart electrician may be surprised

a breadth of product solutions to match,

to know that the same technology is

the onus is now on the electrical installer

used for both door entry systems as it is for

to deliver. My advice is to do your own

lighting controls, so once one technology

research and get ahead of the market,

is mastered, you have the basics for other

and I predict those who do, will see their

aspects too. Crucially however, electricians

businesses grow no end. ■

technology.

For

example,

ThE

FeDs iSsUe aN IoT WaRnInG Think of all of those Internet connected thermostats, lamps and myriad other devices everybody’s been getting so excited about. It turns out, that the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is worried. It has issued a public service announcement entitled ‘Internet of Things Poses Opportunities for Cyber Crime’.

22

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

As noted earlier in Smart Electrician,

Email spam attacks are now being

the Internet of Things (IoT) could bring

sent

massive benefits to mankind – but the

connected

security downsides are potentially huge

televisions, and appliances with wireless

too. The FBI’s announcement relates

network connections. Devices affected

to all IoT implementations, especially

are

consumer,

factory default password is still in use or

and

but

includes

recommendations

information of

use

to

from

usually

home-networking

routers,

multi-media

centres,

vulnerable

because

the

the wireless network is not secured.

manufacturers.

Criminals can gain access to unprotected Possible IoT risks

devices used in home health care, such as those used to collect and transmit

The Universal Plug and Play protocol

personal

(UPnP) can be exploited to gain access

dispense medicines. These devices may

to many IoT devices. UPnP describes the

be at risk if they are capable of long-

process when a device remotely connects

range connectivity.

and

communicates

automatically

on

without

a

monitoring

data

or

time-

network

authentication.

Business-critical devices connected to the

UPnP is designed to self-configure when

Internet, such as the monitoring systems

attached to an IP address, making it

on fuel (i.e. petrol or diesel) pumps,

vulnerable to exploitation. Cyber actors

are a target for cyber-crime. Using this

can change the configuration and run

connection, the criminals could cause the

commands on the devices, enabling the

pump to register incorrect levels, creating

devices to harvest sensitive information,

either a false shortage, or allowing a re-

conduct

homes

fuelling vehicle to dangerously overfill the

and businesses, or engage in digital

tanks, creating a fire hazard. Alternatively,

eavesdropping.

the connection to the point of sale system

attacks

against

could be interrupted, allowing fuel to be An exploitation of default passwords can

dispensed without registering a monetary

allow the sending of malicious and spam

transaction.

emails, or steal personally identifiable information or credit card details.

Is IoT appropriate for my business?

Unsecured or weakly secured devices

Business readers should carefully consider

provide opportunities for cyber criminals

whether an IoT solution is appropriate,

to intrude upon private networks and

and only use manufacturers with a proven

gain access to other devices and to

track record in providing secure solutions.

information attached to these networks.

IoT devices should operate on their own

Devices with default passwords or open

protected networks, which are regularly

Wi-Fi connections are an easy target for

updated with the latest security patches,

cyber actors to exploit.

and UPnP should be disabled.

Cyber criminals can take advantage

Consumers should be aware of the

of security oversights or gaps in the

capabilities and pitfalls of devices installed

configuration of closed circuit television

in their homes, and should always change

and automated devices, such as security

default passwords to strong passwords on

systems, garage doors, thermostats, and

a secured Wi-Fi router.

lighting. Systems not properly secured can be located and breached by actors who

Patients should be informed about the

wish to stream live feed on the Internet

capabilities

for anyone to see. Any default passwords

prescribed for at-home use. If the device

should be changed as soon as possible,

is

and the wireless network should have a

transmission of data, it could be a target

strong password and firewall.

for a malicious actor. â–

capable

of of

any

medical

remote

devices

operation

2016 | ISSUE 02

or

Smart Electrician

23

Internet of Things fraud risks

challenge users, utility suppliers, manufacturers AND installers!

Fraudsters are developing ever more effective techniques to manipulate products and services for their own ends.

The Internet of Things (IoT) is no exception.

24

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

Today’s

increasingly

introducing

a

wide

connected range

of

world

is

from a significant malicious hack (aside from

commercial

occasional bank cloned details or identity theft).

elements into everyday objects, ranging from cars to barbecue grills. However, the reality of

In a recent case, a Samsung smart fridge,

whether we are ready to embrace the concept

designed to sync over Wi-Fi with the user’s Google

of the IoT and enjoy it to its fullest - from a revenue

Calendar, failed to validate SSL certificates. SSL

perspective too - is quite different.

Certificates are small data files that digitally bind a cryptographic key to an organisation’s details.

The IoT is shaping, gradually, the behaviours

When installed on a web server, it activates the

and the dynamics in and between companies,

padlock and the https protocol (over port 443)

bringing with it a new set of challenges and

and allows secure connections from a web

plenty of inconvenience, especially when one

server to a browser. The Samsung fridge left

considers the context of protecting customers,

users’ Gmail credentials wide open to theft.

assets and revenues. As a result, the revenue discussion is no longer purely focused on

The problem itself is when you add technology

financial concerns. The implications of IT and

to items that previously haven’t had it. These

security spending will change a company’s

new products become security challenges

culture entirely.

you haven’t thought about before. It’s not the things in the IoT that we should worry about. It’s

As the IoT is considered one of the biggest

the cloud servers with vast personal information

business opportunities of recent times for many

gathered from all those connected devices.

of our current well known names, it will introduce

It’s a grown up game hacking a refrigerator,

new device manufacturers and application

or a watch, many hackers are doing it for the

(apps) providers that many industries, including

sheer fun and some because they are legally

ours, have not worked with before. This will result

contracted to do so. However hacking is also

in an additional security and fraud risk, as these

a business to fraudsters. And in the business of

‘relying parties’ will have to be audited to ensure

fraud, while the device has no value, the data it

that they meet the expectations of operators,

generates certainly does.

installers and users.

Manufacturers, Fraudsters and hacking the IoT

utility

suppliers

and

data

operators have a legal and moral responsibility to store highly confidential and sensitive data

The IoT concept is embedded in everything,

associated with their customers (whether that’s

from our kids’ toys to our cars to our bodies.

installers or end users) and business partners.

However it is increasingly clear that the Internet

Firms will need to consider how these new

of Things is not just about producing additional

devices connected to the IoT will maintain the

revenue for manufacturers – it introduces all the

integrity of the information stored or exchanged

vulnerabilities of the digital world into our ‘real’

with their partners. Risks to data protection and

world. The actual level of fraud risks and revenues

privacy include espionage potential from other

associated with IoT products and services vary

users, fraudsters masquerading as client devices

widely depending on where organisations reside

or networks to gather data transmitted from

within the supply chain.

users’ device over the network, and information supplied illegally to third parties.

In order to stay ahead of the curve, organisations need to consider and assess - with a risk self-

No, we are not saying devices aren’t a problem.

awareness approach - which elements of their

Devices are famously hard to secure, and can be

products/services are exposed, to what and

extremely easy to compromise, mainly because

to whom, as well as understanding all the risks

users fail to change log in details. But they don’t

that may be caused by having their devices

tend to contain a ton of data - not compared

connected to a network. Any faults with their

to the servers to which they are untiringly

technology and fraudsters will be able to gain

connected. These devices can, however, be

access through a cyber attack.

manipulated to open doors for hackers to exploit companies’ networks remotely. And if these IoT

Security researchers are currently exposing

devices are linked to cloud services, these can

holes in everything IoT-enabled. So far, these

be controlled by untrustworthy hosts, resulting

are mostly demonstrations paid for by security

in compromised user credentials, exposure of

companies or hacking contractor firms hired

personal data or – in the case of companies –

by manufacturers; the real world is yet to suffer

the unveiling trade secrets. There are also ►

2016 | ISSUE 02

Smart Electrician

25

additional

with

cyber criminals, clearly defined for the IoT.

relatively cheap consumer gadgets or fakes to

vulnerabilities

that

come

Moreover, fraud and security measures need to

consider.

be a key strategy in the product life cycle and servicing of products provided by operators

Is it a profitable time for hackers?

(data

and

network),

utility

suppliers

and

manufacturers. By making a comprehensive As we have seen, fraudsters are becoming

risk assessment, companies can ensure that

increasingly

new,

they are taking a balanced approach, with

more effective techniques to get exactly

not only their technology, but also with people

what they want. The IoT will be no exception.

and processes working together to create an

Data

effective strategy that could reduce or even

innovative,

operators,

installers

developing

and

users

can

never be complacent and forget that these

eliminate the significant risks of fraud.

highly organised fraudsters operate their own businesses and need to ’serve‘ their customers.

The demand and requirements of security

Their business models to commit fraud cover

created by the IoT will lead to interesting

all kinds of technologies across international

strategic partnerships between manufacturers

borders. They are based traditionally on the

and operators and utility suppliers. Everyone

inability of network operators and manufacturers

must, however, consider the implications and

to respond and recover in a timely manner,

requirements to minimise exposure to fraud risks

and it is the installer’s responsibility to educate

associated with mobile devices, applications,

and inform end users of how best to protect

processes and different business models.

themselves.

We believe that companies need to find secure One of the key business requirements for data

systems and strategies that will enable them to

and network operators will continually be risk

continue to innovate and bring about business

management, the implementation of fraud

growth, while keeping a firm hand over business

models, security and risk protection against

processes, customer experience and revenue. ■

2016 | ISSUE 02

Smart Electrician

26

The privacy and security of many current

remain. For example, when someone sells a

devices and apps on the Internet of Things (IoT)

house with a smart thermostat or garage door,

should be improved. Future applications will

how does the new owner ensure that former

pose more serious risks for users, according to

users can no longer access these devices? How

the Online Trust Alliance.

do manufacturers protect against intrusions into smart TVs and the theft of data collected from

The alliance has just published its IoT Trust

device cameras and microphones?”

Framework, which it says is the first document to address the risks inherent in the IoT. It contains

The alliance proposes a number of best

guidelines for those who develop, manufacture

practices for organisations involved in the

and sell home automation products and

IoT. It suggests thar privacy policies should

wearable devices for consumer health and

be available to customers before purchase,

fitness.

download or activation of products; that all personally identifiable information should be

The framework identifies three factors it says are

encrypted; that a device’s data collection

essential to ensure the safety and reliability of

policies should be disclosed before purchase,

any IoT-connected device, app or service. The

along with the impact on its functions if such

first two are security and privacy; but the third

data is not supplied by the user; and that users

is sustainability, which the alliance says is often

should be told whether it is possible for them to

overlooked.

remove or make anonymous all personal data when the device is sold or disposed of.

The

authors

of

the

framework

define

sustainability as the ‘life-cycle supportability of a

The Alliance’s IoT working group – which was

device and the protection of the data after the

formed in January 2015 and includes experts

warranty ends’. Craig Spiezle, Executive Director

from ADT, Microsoft and Symantec among its

and President of the Alliance, said: “Important

members – has invited the industry to read the

capability gaps in privacy and security design

document and provide feedback. ■

2016 | ISSUE 02

Smart Electrician

27

Connecting to the Internet through lighting Li-Fi, which has been described as the new era of wireless connections, is a method of data transmission more than 100 times faster than traditional Wi-Fi, and it only requires that you turn on a light! With speeds of up to 1GBps, this new technology could enable a high-definition film to be downloaded in seconds.

Where does Li-Fi technology come from?

•

Greater security: Wi-Fi technology penetrates through walls and can be intercepted and used by

Li-Fi refers to the term Light Fidelity and it is a form of

non-authorised users. Li-Fi allows increased security

visible light communication - a wireless technology that

on local networks as the signal gets blocked by

uses visible light communication or the infra-red and near ultraviolet spectrum rather than radio frequency

walls; •

waves. It is a kind of optical wireless communications

operate than Wi-Fi and therefore is potentially more

technology, and can transmit large amounts of data at an ultra-fast speed. In other words, it is a wireless

Energy efficiency: Li-Fi requires less power to energy efficient, as well as being cheaper; and

•

Where there is light, there is Internet! Any light

communication system similar to Wi-Fi but using light

source with a Li-Fi device installed can be used as

instead of electromagnetic waves. Considering that light

a hotspot or lighting router. This is the case for both

speed is incredibly fast… can you imagine being able to

indoor and outdoor lighting.

connect to and navigate the Internet at light speed? … And the disadvantages?

A bit of history…

Li-Fi cannot be deployed outdoors in direct sunlight (as The term Li-Fi was created by Professor Harald Haas from

this would interfere with its signal). The connection can’t

the University of Edinburgh. Haas demonstrated the

travel through walls, which makes the usage limited.

technology at the TED Global Conference in 2011. After

The initial use is likely to be applied as a supplement in

introducing the technology, Haas started promoting

places where Wi-Fi connections are limited, for example

it, setting up a company – PureLiFi – to market Li-Fi

in hospitals. It doesn’t work when the light is off - this

products. At the end of 2011, different industry groups

could imply an increase of light usage. It only works with

and companies formed the Li-Fi Consortium with the

devices that have Li-Fi compatible receptors.

objective of establishing the new wireless technology in the market.

What is the future of Li-Fi?

What are the advantages of the Li-Fi versus Wi-Fi?

Even though Li-Fi is still in the early stages of development, research is moving forward very fast. The

•

Speed: Li-Fi is up to five times faster than Wi-Fi;

market for IoT products is rapidly growing, demanding

•

Price: Li-Fi is around 10 times cheaper than Wi-Fi ;

an increased connectivity through devices. As a result

•

Less interference between devices: unlike Wi-Fi,

of this, faster and heavier data transmission is going be

Li-Fi does not interfere with other radio signals,

required.

so could be used on aircraft and in other places

28

where interference is an issue. Because of the fact

While Li-Fi might not completely replace Wi-Fi, it is likely

that light has no electromagnetic interference, Li-Fi

that both technologies could be used in parallel to

could be of major benefit in hospitals;

create more efficient networks. ■

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

THE POWER TO HELP YOU GET TO GRIPS WITH DATA CABLING LOOKING FOR NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? Digital and data communication installations represent a new market for contractors to install data communication networks and Part R of the Building Regs, due to be released shortly, will drive this demand further.

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the power behind your business

nCube Home When you look around, it’s not hard to see the incredible

Danfoss, Everspring, Popp, Parrot flower power, TKB home,

impact that smart home technology has on our daily lives.

Netatmo, Sonos, Belkin, Wemo and many other Z-Wave

Products range from smart thermostats that can help us

devices.

reduce energy consumption and control our home energy, to smart sensors that can trigger an alarm, to

How it works

smart door lock that locks the door automatically after we leave home. The solutions are infinite, which makes

nCube Home is a small and stylish square hub that

deciding which brands or devices one should bring into

can be plugged directly to the broadband router.

their smart home very difficult.

Communication with various smart devices is sent to the hub which is connected to the smartphone through the

Gone are the times when we thought that smart home

app. nCube Home works as the brain of the smart home,

products belonged only in movies; today we can find

the app allows the user to create any combination of

many smart devices at an affordable price. Many

commands known as ‘Cubes’ for their connected home.

companies are offering a variety of smart devices and a

For example, the homeowner can come back home for

central hub that controls them all. But what if a customer

a ‘warm welcome’ where the lights are switched and

likes one particular brand for their thermostat and another

dimmed, the music tuned on, heating regulated and

one for their speakers and another one for their door

blinds and curtains set to create the desired ambience.

locks? Do they really have to buy all their smart products from one particular company so that they can control it

However smart homes become more powerful when

from one single app?

the smart devices are properly installed in a hidden way inside the sidelight switches (such as Z-wave controlled

Open platform

relays) and when the humidity, temperature and motion sensors are correctly mounted for environmental and

The answer is no. This is what nCube Home is all about.

security purposes. Furthermore, the heating system should

nCube Home is an open platform that allows devices

be professionally installed as most thermostat are not DIY

from different brands to speak to each other. This will give

suitable. ■

the homeowners the freedom to buy any smart devices

30

they wish, be it Nest, Sonos, Philips etc and they will still be

We are looking for the first few installers to work with us. If

able to control all of them using one single app. In fact

you are interested in becoming one of our installers, send

nCube Home is compatible with more than 100 devices

us an email to info@ncubehome.com. For more info about

from different brands: Lifx, Nest, Tado, Philips Hue, Fibaro,

nCube Home: www.ncubehome.com

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

TRENDY NOW

BIM The basics explained

Acronyms seem to be in plentiful supply in all walks of life these days and the construction

industry is no exception; BREEAM, DALI, BSi, ISO etc. etc. As since April, another that’s wheedled

its way to the forefront of many a building professional’s mind this year is BIM; Building Information Modelling.

A good many people are already well versed in all

created. This is so accurate it can be used to prove all

things BIM, but equally some are not, and if that’s

aspects of construction and long term performance

you there may be a number of questions you’d like

before so much as a shovel hits the ground. The

answering - What’s this BIM thing all about? Why

virtual finished product is called a BIM model and is

is April so important all of a sudden? What does it

made up of all the components that will be used in

mean for me? The aim of this article is to answer

its physical construction. If it’s a regular building, a

those three questions in relatively broad, layman’s

school or office block for example, that will include

terms so that the BIM novices out there will have

all the usual things you’d expect like bricks, doors

a basic platform from which to build on (no pun

& windows, thermal insulation, steelwork, pipework,

intended).

HVAC, plant & switch gear, sanitary ware, luminaires, controls, ceilings, furniture, floor coverings and even

What is BIM?

the paint on the walls - the list is almost endless.

These individual items are called BIM objects and

Broadly speaking, BIM is something of an umbrella

can be likened to the pieces of a jigsaw; of limited

term that relates to both the methods employed to

use on their own, but collectively and interactively

design using digital modelling, and the way in which

a very powerful resource for all connected with a

collective data, inherent with any construction

project to interrogate, manipulate and share.

project, is formatted and shared. Its purpose is to ensure that the whole life management of the

Each BIM object is a multifaceted bundle of data

facility, from its initial design all the way through to

comprising 2D and 3D representations of the product,

its eventual decommission or demolition, is made as

dimensional information including any additional

efficient and cost effective as possible. In truth, BIM

clearances that may be required during install or

is as much a road map as it is a design tool.

to operate safely and correctly, performance & technical data and the manufacturer’s details.

32

Working in line with BIM from the outset of a project,

Some of this information is delivered in CAD form,

a 3D representation of the finished structure is

Revit being adopted in the UK as the platform of

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

by approximately 20% by the end of parliament.

utilising PDF and Excel formats as required. This

In short, with less money in the coffers due to the

standardisation of product information across the

recent economic downturn, better value for money

board means that architects, building consultants,

would be necessary with respect to projects funded

main contractors, sub-contractors, end users, clients

via the public purse. One element identified in the

etc. are all working with the same information,

paper which was deemed key if the government’s

laid out in exactly the same way and using the

aspirations

same software. The result, in theory at least, being

standardisation of the methods employed in the

unrestricted collaboration between all disciplines

planning, procurement, construction and whole

and a joined up decision making process that’s

life cycle management of an asset. Fast forward a

more informed than ever before.

few years to the present day, allow for a number

were

to

be

successful,

was

the

of amendments to the original 2011 strategy, and Why April 2016?

a significant part of that previously mentioned standardisation has developed into Level 2 BIM

Back in May 2011 the Cabinet Office published

which became a mandatory requirement with

the

respect to centrally procured public sector projects

Government

Construction

Strategy

which

highlighted how the construction industry, which

on April 4th 2016.

at the time made up 7% of GDP, had to change if it were to contribute more effectively to the

At this point it would be easy to adopt a cynical

then coalition Government’s plans for economic

attitude and view this as yet another scheme dreamt

growth. The document went on to state how

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trace. However, although this April saw the introduction

from your portfolio will need to be made available as

of Level 2 BIM, its evolutionary journey is well underway

BIM objects and which will not, as well as being able

with the next iteration, Level 3 BIM, planned to see the

to create them in partnership with you. They’ll also be

light of day sometime in 2019, which would appear

able to host your BIM objects in their online library where

to suggest that far from being a flash in the pan, the

your client base can download them, usually for free.

Government is in this for the long haul. Furthermore, a

However, before taking the plunge and signing on the

number of countries around the world are in the process

dotted line, make sure that the BIM object you end up

of adopting BIM too, and this being the case, it’s not

with will be compliant with the rigorous Level 2 standard.

hard to envisage BIM eventually becoming the global

If it’s not, you may well find yourself falling short of your

de facto standard for the construction industry.

customer’s, not to mention the Government’s, minimum requirements. If in doubt, the standard to refer back to

What does BIM mean for me?

is PAS 1192-2.

If you’re involved in the ‘bricks & mortar’ side of

In Summary

the building industry, be it design, specification, procurement, construction, facilities management etc.

The introduction of Level 2 BIM only applies to

it’s fair to say that you’ll find yourself at the sharp end

Government funded projects in the UK and is intended

of BIM. Some practices have already picked up the

to address some of the inefficiencies of builds that we,

baton and are actively introducing it as their preferred

the tax paying public, fund. This being the case, it would

option. Perhaps having researched the subject, these

appear that those involved in the public sector side of

organisations have arrived at the conclusion that the

construction will have little choice but to embrace BIM if

benefits that BIM can bring to their day to day activities

they plan to remain active in that particular arena.

are simply too good to pass up, regardless of whether public sector contracts are, or are not their bag. For

For those organisations operating solely in the private

those who may still be unsure of the implications that

sector, April 2016 may well have passed by much

the adoption of BIM holds for them, a quick internet

the same as March and February did before it, but

search on something like ‘BIM training courses’ will throw

how long will that remain the case? It seems unlikely

up a whole host of industry trusted bodies that can offer

that the larger architect, consultant and contractor

advice, information and training.

organisations, who in the main operate in both the public and private sectors, will run with two platforms

If you’re a product manufacturer, then it is your

side by side for very long; it hardly makes sense to use

responsibility to produce BIM objects for your products.

BIM for one project type and an alternative package for

The creation of a BIM object is subject to fairly strict

another. Additionally, if BIM really can make the building

criteria and although many manufacturers will possess

and running of a publicly owned hospital or suspension

the capability to create them in house, undoubtedly

bridge more efficient, logic dictates it can do just the

some will not. If as a product manufacturer you happen

same for a privately owned office block or hotel. After

to fall into the second categor, it is suggested that

all, don’t the people holding the purse strings in the

for you to have a conversation with one of the BIM

private sector crave value for money just as much as

specialists would be a good place to start.

Government?

Search the net for ‘BIM downloads’ to bring up a list of

So for economic reasons, as well as plain old logic, the

suitable organisations; if they have objects to download

BIM trickle down appears to have started this Spring

it’s a safe bet they can help you create yours. From the

and it would seem only to be a matter of time before its

outset they’ll be able to advise exactly which products

effects are felt by everyone involved in construction. ■

by Paul Bellamy, director at flex connectors For more go to www.flexconnectors.co.uk/bim

34

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

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Get past the confusion caused by all those technologies!

36

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

VENT ILAT ION GETS SMART Smart technology has been around for some time but until recently it was only accessible to those with large budgets. This is now changing with a huge growth in the sector that offers the latest technology controlled over Wi-Fi via an App making it affordable. Included in this growth are the latest ventilation systems. Ian Mitchell, Product Marketing Manager - New Build Residential at Vent-Axia explains.

The smart home used to only be on offer

App-controlled commissioning

in high-end developments with just a small number of electricians able to profit from this

For

niche market. With the development of App

touch screen or App-controlled commissioning

electricians,

Advance’s

control via Wi-Fi rather than complex hard-

offers simplified installation, saving time. By

wired systems and interfaces, there is now a

using the pioneering Wi-Fi enabled App,

great opportunity for electricians to benefit

commissioning

from this new breed of system.

installers hold a vane anemometer to measure

is

simplified

unit-mounted

since

when

airflow in one hand, using the other hand This

means

they can employ the App to control airflows

the latest Mechanical Ventilation with Heat

technological

during measurement, making it unnecessary

Recovery

bringing

to repeatedly return to the unit to adjust fan

new connectivity to the HEVAC sector with

speeds. This saves costs by simplifying and

pioneering interfaces and functions available

reducing installation time, ensuring accurate

via simple web-enabled App control. In

commissioning, in turn avoiding call backs.

addition to offering the latest ventilation, this

Plus electricians can save even more time by

type of MVHR is a great entry-level product for

pre-commissioning Advance through its USB

electricians into the smart-home world while

functionality.

(MVHR)

development systems

are

using a familiar technology.

Another important feature for the latest MVHR For example, the launch of Vent-Axia’s new

systems is BMS connectivity.

In residential

Sentinel Kinetic Advance takes MVHR to

apartments or student accommodation this

the next level. Topping the PCDB list with

allows landlords or FMs to monitor the systems’

exceptional efficiency, near silent operation,

performance and status through a BACnet

high pressure development and improved

BMS system (a data communication protocol

indoor air quality (IAQ), Advance features

for building automation and control networks).

time-saving commissioning and control via a

This system monitoring allows landlords to

unique web-enabled App.

both ensure good IAQ and that systems are performing efficiently.

While ventilation specification and control can be a complex system involving pressure

Also, App control heralds the growth of the

calculations

measurements,

Internet of Things (IoT). IoT allows products to

Vent-Axia has designed the complexity into

talk to each other and react based on a set of

the product so the human interface via

inputs. The BACnet BMS connectivity therefore

Advance’s App is as simple as possible.

allows the newest MVHR systems to respond ►

and

volume

2016 | ISSUE 02

Smart Electrician

37

enlighten (verb) make it easier Find all the product data, brochures news and technical advice you need in one place

The IoT revolution is changing the way you work, as an individual, or within an organisation or company. The influx of smart technology into homes and work buildings, such as connected lighting, will also see significant benefits for you as an electrical professional in the future.

The IoT is officially one of Europe’s biggest ever IT projects. In order to roll out this project, the UK will need electrical engineers who understand smart technology. Are you one of them?

All this new technology means there are lots of new terms and concepts to learn. But don’t worry if you’re not completely up to speed – we’ve collated some of the most important changes to the industry so far. And as the electrical industry is continually changing, we’ll keep it up to date with new terms as they emerge.

Voltimum is THE ultimate electrical industry definition guide. It is a free-access, free-content portal that gathers all the latest product data together for you in one easy to use site. It’s so simple you’ll wish you had heard of Voltimum years ago!

Voltimum is updated daily with the latest industry news, key manufacturer news, and lots of technical articles covering all aspects of the electrical industry. There is also a section with over 3,500 entries of FAQs in the Q&A area, a product review section, and links to educational webinars. And you get all this essential reading for FREE! There is a grand total of nearly 36,000 articles currently in our archive. Since February we’ve had nearly two million page views and 2,456 new registered users. So come and network with any of our 11,200 weekly users and learn from their experience. You can also influence the content of articles, new releases and versions of our Partners’ products and services. Become a Smart Electrician with Voltimum.

Register for free today on www.voltimum.co.uk and make your life easier. That’s what we call enlightenment.

One more thing… If you’re as tech-savvy as we think you are, why not download the free Voltimum App from the iTunes store and Google Play?

www.voltimum.co.uk Follow and like us

to emergency alarms. For example, if a fire

Best in class

alarm is triggered, the fan will shut down – reducing airflow that could feed a fire, an

Although Advance offers new connectivity

important safety feature.

benefits,

it

also

leads

the

way

with

efficiency, silence and performance. For Silence and control

housebuilders, energy efficiency is still the most important specification factor for

For today’s digital-savvy house buyers

ventilation. Advance is therefore the best

Advance’s

ventilation

performing MVHR unit in its class, boasting

makes an attractive addition to their

a specific fan power of 0.38W/l/w with 93%

high-tech

heat recovery and airflow of 100l/s at 150Pa,

App-controlled homes.

Providing

interactive

control via a downloadable free App on

offering high pressure development.

a smartphone or via the on-board screen, Advance allows households to take control

However, it is not only efficiency that is

of their ventilation, an important issue

important house buyers are increasingly

following recent research linking poor IAQ

requesting

to health problems.

extensive R&D, Advance has achieved

quiet

ventilation.

Following

maximised airflows and minimised noise Featuring a simple user interface Advance

and energy through highly sculpted interiors

offers programmable controllers where the

combined with cutting-edge EC motors.

unit can be scheduled to boost when very

Advance is therefore extremely quiet with

hot or avoid boost, perhaps when a baby is

trickle settings up to 40% staying below

sleeping. Meanwhile, 100% Summer Bypass

20dBA, providing households with quiet

helps ensure thermal comfort, a significant

energy efficient comfort.

issue in air-tight new build properties. This sophisticated

Summer

Bypass

features

So

with

tech

savvy

end-users

now

an evening or overnight purge, allowing

demanding more from their homes, the

occupiers

take

latest MVHR units are a fitting addition to

advantage of cooler air during hot summer

to

choose

when

to

new high-spec living. Not only does this new

periods.

technology provide good IAQ and comfort but

While

units

controlled

trailblazing

connectivity

offers

via

the digital experience we expect from

smartphone App will be attractive

products today. For electricians, MVHR’s

to homeowners, the Advance is fully

new connectivity offers a great opportunity

autonomous and controls can be locked

to enter the smart-home market. And for

to prevent modification to flows and

developers, the latest MVHR systems provide

other settings. Advance can also alert the

them with the energy efficient, near silent

homeowner when to change filters. With

systems they desire, while offering market-

filters available up to F7 grade, this ensures

leading connectivity. ■

a

MVHR

its

For electricians, MVHR’s new connectivity offers a great opportunity to enter the smart-home market.

that even properties in heavily urbanised areas can filter out impurities, including damaging PM2.5.

2016 | ISSUE 02

Smart Electrician

39

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

Product Review

‘Innovate and radically improve prime cost’ - too good to be true?

Cable management is often

calculator using the standard

a key part of an electrical

industry rates from the Luckins

installation and the procurement

Electrical

of the material required on a

Guide, so you can be sure

project clearly needs to be

that there is no mystery to this

carefully considered - but so

simple process. As an example,

does the time taken to install it.

a project that has a labour cost

Only the combination of both

of £30,000 to install a traditional

gives the ‘prime cost’ for a

pre-galvanised

product and it’s this factor that

will show a saving of around

is becoming vitally important

£20,000 when using the Uniklip

for estimators, engineers and

system.

Installation

tray

Times

Paul Cooper, UK Key Account Manager for Unitrunk, explains how the firm’s quickly installed cable management systems and cost calculator can save lots of money.

range

project managers.

Uniklip tray is proven to be Labour is one of the most

three times faster to fit than

difficult elements of any project

conventional

to manage and this is where

installers

Unitrunk can help. RIS (Rapid

about the fuss of conventional

Installation Systems) ranges are

equipment,

designed to make life on site

of standard fixings and the

more cost effective for installers,

traditional

but one significant and often

cutting and filing of multiple

overlooked benefit of using

components – these can be

these systems is in the tendering

things of the past…

systems

can

now

the

and forget

assembling

time

consuming

EasyConnect wire cable tray

process.

If installers are looking for that Most installers would probably

competitive edge, then Uniklip

agree that the point at which

and

they require a real competitive

ranges offer clear advantages

advantage is when they are

over

quoting projects - with the help

and the key issue in making

of Unitrunk this has never been

the most of them is an early

more straightforward. The RIS

engagement with the supplier.

ranges include Uniklip cable

Given the highly competitive

tray, EasyConnect wire cable

nature of securing project work,

tray (basket) and Speedlok

can you afford not to take a

cable ladder, and we have

look at these ground breaking

created simple cost calculators

innovations? ■

that

enable

quickly

and

estimators easily

the

other

traditional

Unitrunk

RIS

products

to

identify,

Uniklip cable tray

where shown, the huge savings to be enjoyed by choosing these fast fitting systems.

The Uniklip cost calculator is an easy to use tool that requires nothing more than the labour rate and the tray quantities to be inputted – the installed timings for both traditional and Uniklip cable tray systems have been incorporated into the 2016 | ISSUE 02

Smart Electrician

41

Product Review

DRAYTON GRANTS YOUR WISHES WITH MIGENIE

Heating controls specialist Drayton

The miGenie Wish 3 pack includes a

has granted your wishes by launching

multi-channel controller, two room

its most intelligent range of products

thermostats and Internet gateway.

to date – miGenie. This new collection

It is the ideal option for time and

of Internet connected heating control

temperature

packs – known as miGenie Wishes -

properties, and an existing cylinder

can add a touch of magic to your life

thermostat can be wired in so that

by making smart technology simple.

two thermostats provide zone control

control

in

larger

for heating.

The miGenie Wishes feature heating controls is similar to the leading MiTime

Simon May, Product Manager at

and MiStat range. However, miGenie

Drayton

devices

rise of smart technology becomes

utilise

smart

technology,

Controls,

said:

“As

the

enabled by an intuitive app that users

commonplace,

download onto an iOS or Android

consumers are requesting heating

smartphone, tablet or Apple Watch.

controls that can be controlled via

This allows homeowners to regulate

mobile devices; that’s why we have

their heating and hot water from

developed miGenie.

more

and

more

anywhere, at any time, using the app.

“It’s Products

contained

within

the

the

familiarity

perfect and

combination innovation.

of The

miGenie Wishes are pre-bound and

standard backplate means you can

boast a standard backplate, meaning

upgrade controls in minutes; the pre-

they are easy to retrofit and can be

bound two-way wireless connection

installed straight from the box in as

means units are ready to go straight

little as ten minutes. The controls are

out of the box; and the signal strength

really simple to operate too, featuring

indicator ensures correct positioning

familiar buttons and icons, and step-

first time. All that’s left to do is plug

by-step instructions for set up.

the Internet gateway into the home router and ‘alakazam’ - installation

British built to last, the miGenie wishes

can be done and dusted in just 10

are suitable for all applications to

minutes.

make installation easier and ensure that the installer has the perfect

“Once

solution for every job.

downloaded the app, heating and

the

homeowner

has

hot water can be controlled from a The miGenie Wish 1 pack includes

phone, tablet or watch, so wherever

a single channel controller, room

they are, they can be in complete

thermostat and internet gateway,

control. No longer will they be a slave

ideal

to their heating schedule...they can

for

time

and

temperature

control of combination boilers, giving

be its master!” ■

the installer the option to upgrade controls without the need for re-wiring.

The miGenie Wish 2 pack includes a

dual-channel

controller,

room

thermostat and Internet gateway, ideal for time and temperature control of conventional boilers. Installers can upgrade time control and thermostat without re-wiring and use with an existing cylinder thermostat.

42

Smart Electrician

ISSUE 02 | 2016

To find out more about the new Drayton miGenie range call 0845 130 5522 or visit http://www.mi-genie.co.uk/

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