ECD Solutions Jan/Feb 2014

ECD SOLUTIONS

FROM THE EDITOR

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2014

CONTENTS

The scorching heatwaves in Victoria and South Australia have put significant pressure on the power grids. Victoria and South Australia recorded the highest levels of electricity consumption since January 2009, with a maximum demand of 10,151 MW recorded in Vic and 3046 MW recorded in SA on 14 January, according to the Australian

4

Energy Market Operator (AEMO). This

Understanding power quality disturbances

triggered the need for load shedding in parts

10 Efficiency + Renewables

10

The smart city: Where intelligent power grids work with intelligent buildings

18

ATO sets sights: on medium-sized businesses

of SA and Vic. Load shedding usually begins with industrial and commercial customers,

says AEMO. The potential negative effects of such events make me wonder if a faster move to the smart grid will help us address some of these extreme weather challenges.

The widespread deployment of smart grids will require expensive infrastructure upgrades

19 Electrical Distribution

and a long-term vision.

21

Improving power quality by reducing harmonics

technicians in Europe are working towards

24

The future of remote powering applications

Research and development engineers and creating the smart KNX City model, where an intelligent power grid works with intelligent buildings. This issue features an article on the

Cover: ©iStockphoto.com/David Joyner

project and how it could change our future.

29 Comms + Data

31

Thermal ageing of PVC cables

36

Data centres aim for the stars

41

Optimising field service: for improved profitability and efficiency

44 Automation + Security

44

Benefits of migrating to IP-based systems

Closer to home, the grid trials for Australia’s first commercial-scale Smart Grid, Smart City project have been completed. The project tested a range of technologies and applications across grid and customer scenarios, including distributed generation and storage trials and a search for synergies with other infrastructure (such as gas and water) and the NBN, according to the Department of Industry. The final report on the project, delivered and funded in partnership with Ausgrid, EnergyAustralia and their consortium partners IBM Australia, GE Energy Australia, Hunter Water and Newcastle City Council, is expected to be available in early 2014.

The findings will help understand the cost and benefits of smart grid in the real context, and

NOW in DIGITAL!

make future decisions.

Your copy of ECD Solutions is now available as an online eMag.

Mansi Gandhi - Editor mgandhi@westwick-farrow.com.au

http://www.ECDsolutions.com.au/latest_issues This month’s eMag is proudly sponsored by www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

UNDERSTANDING POWER QUALITY DISTURBANCES

©iStockphoto.com/Jeramiah Barber

Nicolas Larue*

4

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

With the growing need for more base- and critical-load supply, many countries struggle to manage their energy usage. This article provides details insights on the most common power quality problems, their likely effects and potential solutions.

W

e live in a fast and constantly evolving society where responsiveness is vital. With this comes availability which, in turn, brings reliability. Our technological world is heavily dependent on these three factors. Can we imagine the effectiveness of an economy in the event of poor power availability? How would the economy function with an unreliable power grid which is subjected to interruptions or disturbances?

The practice of ensuring the quality of power, that is power quality, is a way to minimise such power problems affecting today’s technological equipment, whether sensitive or heavy industrial. These problems reflected at the transmission level are typically caused by weather conditions, including lightning storms along with equipment failure and major switching operations. Similarly, the problems are observed at the load level from heavy start-up loads, a faulty distribution network and electrical noise.

Power quality disturbance is commonly defined as any change in power, voltage, current or frequency that interferes with the normal operation of the electrical equipment. This encompasses numerous types of disturbances. As a result, the IEEE Standard 1159-2009 attempts to define them to clear the confusion created with the mixed use of terminology and applications. Using the correct terms effectively can make a big difference in the decision-making process in selecting the appropriate solution.

This article explains seven categories of power quality disturbances as defined by the IEEE.

Transients Transients are probably the most damaging type of power disturbance, often categorised as impulsive or oscillatory. Impulsive transients are fast and sudden high, fast peak events that raise voltage and/or current levels from steady state, either

positively or negatively, for less than 50 ns. Impulse transients are caused by electrostatic discharge (ESD), lightning, poor grounding, inductive load switching and utility fault clearing. The consequences of a network subjected to impulse transients range from loss or corruption of data to physical damage of equipment.

As such, adequate protection is critical for sensitive electronic equipment.

Surge protective devices (SPD) and transient voltage surge suppressors (TVSS) are commonly used in the industry to protect equipment against impulsive transients. ESD is a common effect that, although it may not be dangerous for humans, can destroy sensitive electronic or computer systems. In data centres or electronic manufacturing facilities, for example, the environmental conditions are controlled to adjust the moisture levels to within 40-55% with the aim to reduce the potential for ESD. Oscillatory transients are sudden changes which occur in the steady-state condition of voltage and/or current, oscillating at the natural system frequency.

This is opposed to impulsive transient which introduces short duration peaks and are non-oscillatory. Oscillatory transients normally decay to zero within a cycle, which is relatively slow compared to impulsive transients. These phenomena are caused by the switching in and out inductive or capacitive loads, such as a motor or capacitor bank respectively. They can be disruptive to electronic equipment and can cause overvoltage tripping in variable speed drives (VSD) due to the slow transient causing a rise in the DC link voltage. One solution to this problem is the introduction of series line reactors or DC chokes to dampen the oscillatory transients.

Sag/undervoltage Sag is a phenomenon observed due to voltage drop, for a given frequency, for

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 5

POWER QUALITY

THE SYMPTOMS OF HARMONIC DISTORTIONS INCLUDE OVERHEATED TRANSFORMERS, NEUTRAL CONDUCTORS, TRIPPING OF CIRCUIT BREAKERS AND LOSS OF SYNCHRONISATION ON TIMING CIRCUITS REQUIRING ZERO CROSSING TRIGGER. HARMONICS CAN BE VERY DAMAGING TO EQUIPMENT, ESPECIALLY DESTRUCTIVE TO CAPACITOR BANKS IF NOT PROTECTED BY DETUNING REACTORS, AS WELL AS CAUSING TRANSFORMERS TO SATURATE.

0.5 to 50 cycles. On the contrary, an interruption, which can be instantaneous, momentary, temporary or sustained depending on its duration, is defined as a complete loss of supply voltage or load current. Sags are typically caused by system faults or switching on loads with heavy start-up currents. For instance, a motor can draw up to six times its rated current during start-up, creating a large and sudden electrical load that the system needs to supply. As a result, it draws a large inrush current from the network leading to a voltage drop to the rest of the circuit affecting equipment on the same bus.

Dedicated circuits for large loads may be the most effective solution for performance but are not necessarily practical or cost effective. As alternatives, other solutions such as reduced-voltage starters, solid-state soft starters and VSD may be viable options depending on the application. This is because the speed of the motor is varied according to the load to reduce the large inrush upon start-up.

Sags can go undetected until equipment damage, data corruption or process and equipment malfunctions are noticed.

An undervoltage is defined as a 90% reduction in voltage magnitude for more than one minute (ie, >50 cycles). It is the long-term result of problems that lead to sags initially. Due to the sustained duration of reduced voltage, undervoltages can create overheating in motors and lead to failure of non-linear loads. Consequently, there are fewer risks of undervoltages if a system is protected against sags.

Swell/overvoltage The effect of swell is the opposite of sag. It is a result of an increase in AC voltage, for a given frequency, for 0.5 to 50 cycles. Swells can be caused by highimpedance neutral connections, sudden load reductions and a single-phase fault on a three-phase system. The effects of a swell can be data errors or corruption, lights flickering, degradation of electrical contacts and insulation and damage to

6

sensitive electronics. Similarly, swells can be hard to identify, but installing a UPS or powerline conditioner could provide a solution, by allowing visibility of these events.

An overvoltage can be seen as an extended swell. This can occur in networks where the tap settings on the supply transformer may need to be readjusted due to the load reduction for seasonality reasons.

Some equipment may be able to operate on an overvoltage as long as their maximum limit and duration are not exceeded. Some common detrimental effects are the extra heat generated, electrical stress on equipment and nuisance-tripping downstream.

Waveform distortion DC offset: is the effect seen when a direct current (DC) is induced into an AC system.

This is often due to failure of rectifiers within the AC to DC conversion stage.

Consequently, the DC component adds unwanted current to devices that may already be operating at their full load. This will lead to overheating and saturation of the transformers which prevent the unit from operating correctly to deliver its full power to the load. As a collateral effect, this creates further instability to electronic equipment. The solution to avoid such damage is to replace the faulty equipment.

Harmonics: a harmonic is a signal (or wave) whose frequency is an integral multiple of the reference frequency, in electrical terms, the fundamental frequency. Harmonic distortion is the corruption of the fundamental 50 Hz sine wave at multiple integer frequencies. Non-linear loads, such as power electronics typically present in switch-mode power supplies (SMPS), VSD, inverters and UPS are the most common harmonic generators.

The symptoms of harmonic distortions include overheated transformers, neutral conductors, tripping of circuit breakers and loss of synchronisation on timing circuits requiring zero crossing trigger. Harmonics can be very damaging to equipment, especially destructive to capacitor banks if not protected by detuning reactors, as

well as causing transformers to saturate.

The four most common mitigation methods applicable to reducing or eliminating harmonics in an electrical network today are: AC line reactors or DC chokes; passive filters; active front end rectifiers; active harmonic filters (AHF).

While active harmonic filtering solutions provide some very unique added value, every method has its place and adds its own complexity. Other less-common solutions such as multi-pulse or K-rated transformers exist.

Thanks to advances in technology, new IT tools are now equipped with more efficient SMPS and power factor corrected power supplies operating as linear, nonharmonic loads. These do not contribute to harmonic pollution, but do, however, introduce the challenge of having an overall leading power factor. Fortunately, some active harmonic filtering solutions are capable of correcting this problem.

Interharmonics: these are a type of waveform distortion created as the result of the inter-modulation of the fundamental and harmonic components of the system with any other frequency components.

They are introduced by loads such as static frequency converters, induction motors, arcing devices, cyclo-converters and sub-synchronous converter cascades - essentially, all loads that do not pulsate synchronously with the fundamental frequency.

Cycloconverters, used to control large linear motors in rolling mill, cement and mining are the major contributors of interharmonics problems. The result is a supply voltage transformed into an AC voltage of a frequency lower or higher than that of the supply frequency. The impacts of interharmonic frequency components greater than the fundamental frequency are overheating, just like with harmonics, flicker, torsional oscillations, overload of conventional series tuned filters and communications interference.

Passive and active filters are the most common techniques to mitigate interharmonics. Once more, while passive filters

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

Cable Assembly @ Ampec

Local manufacturing capabilities for cable assembly with a fully equipped factory

Ampec Technologies specialises in manufacturing of custom design cable assemblies at our local factory in Sydney.

We also have overseas manufacturing partners to cater for high volume production.

Our experienced team is at your service.

e sales@ampec.com.au w www.ampec.com.au

Production team trained to IPC/WHMA-A-620A

Fully automatic cut, strip and crimp machines

High mix low volume and quick turnaround

+61 2 8741 5000

POWER QUALITY

This could potentially lead to mechanical damage, cause the motor to run inefficiently and lead to overheating as well as degradation of the motor.

Voltage imbalance

ŠiStockphoto.com/Aleksej Kostin

are relatively inexpensive compared to active filters, this method is insufficient since the series tuned filter causes a parallel resonance when interharmonics are present and need to cover a wide range of frequencies. As such, passive filters must be equipped with damping resistors to minimise that effect as well as be a multistage filter which add to the complexity.

Notching: this has a similar effect as impulse transient. However, since it is a periodic disturbance caused by electronic devices under normal operation, notching is considered a waveform distortion problem.

The consequences of notching may be seen as being less severe than the ones above but can however lead to system halts, data loss and data transmission losses. UPS and filtering solutions are viable solutions to rectify this problem.

Noise: this is typically used to refer to background or stray signals. Noise is unwanted voltage or current signals superimposed on the power system waveforms. Possible sources are power electronic devices, control circuits, arc welders, SMPS and radio transmitters.

IT and telecommunications equipment and computer systems are the most susceptible to noise which can cause data errors, equipment malfunction, prolonged equipment failure and affect video data. Noise filters, isolation transformers and proper grounding and shielding techniques are some of the many approaches used to reduce noise.

Voltage fluctuation Voltage fluctuation is fundamentally different from the rest of the waveform anomalies in

8

that the variation in the voltage waveform occurs in an orderly manner. The series of random voltage changes are relatively small, notably 95 to 105% of the nominal voltage at a low frequency.

Whenever significant current variations are present, voltage fluctuations are introduced.

Arc furnaces are the major contributors of this problem on distribution and transmission networks. The effects are flicker and possible damage to sensitive electronic devices. UPS and some dynamic VAR compensation systems have the capabilities to resolve this problem.

Frequency variation Extensive investment is made to maintain the electricity grid within its frequency tolerance to avoid any possible equipment failure on the customer sites. However, when sites or plants run on standby generators or poor power infrastructure, frequency variation is a common problem especially if the generator is not properly sized. Such a problem mainly affects the motors and sensitive devices that rely on steady regular power cycles over time.

Failure to maintain the frequency within its limits can cause a motor to accelerate or run slower to match the frequency of the supply.

Voltage imbalance is regarded as a power quality problem of significant concern at the electricity distribution level. This type of power quality disturbance is caused by an unequal distribution of loads amongst the three-phase power distribution system. Although the voltages are quite well balanced at the generator and transmission levels, the voltages at the utilisation level can become imbalanced. This is due to the unequal system impedances and the unequal distribution of single-phase loads.

An excessive level of voltage imbalance can have serious impacts on mains-connected induction motors. The level of current imbalance that is present is several times the level of voltage imbalance.

Due to voltage imbalance, the line currents can lead to excessive losses in the stator and rotor that may cause protection systems to operate causing loss of production. Greater imbalances may cause excessive heat to motor components and the intermittent failure of motor controller. Correcting voltage imbalance involves rebalancing the loads physically.

Alternatively, some dynamic VAR compensators have the capabilities to perform load balancing depending on the application.

Power quality solutions critical in all situations The need for power quality solutions is everywhere, considering the widespread use of critical and sensitive electronics which require both clean and reliable power.

Similarly, mission-critical applications such as data centres and hospitals cannot afford to be subjected to even the smallest electrical fluctuations given their dependence on critical power. In industrial applications, downtime and business performance rely on power reliability and availability. Power quality aims to bring together a synergy that ensures clean, reliable and dependable power.

Schneider Electric Power Business Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V775

*Nicolas Larue is the product manager for power factor correction and harmonic filtering solutions. He has been with the company for four years with prior experience in deploying energy management and SCADA systems. He is responsible for the growth and market penetration of the technology. Coming from a power systems background where he has been involved in power generation and developing excitation control systems for microhydroelectric generators, he shares a passion for electrical machines and energy efficiency. He holds a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of Technology Sydney (UTS), specialising in power system engineering.

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

It’s easy to see why VOLTEX is Australia’s fastest growing electrical brand

It’s what’s on the inside that counts Cable-Loc is focused on providing quality products at affordable prices.

All VOLTEX products exceed Australian Safety Standards and come with a 10 year Warranty.

T: 1300 722 275 F: 1300 738 717 E: sales@cableloc.com

THE SMART CITY

WHERE INTELLIGENT POWER GRIDS WORK WITH INTELLIGENT BUILDINGS Ian Richardson, Senior Product Engineer

Engineers and technicians in Europe are working towards creating smart cities where building controls, industrial control systems and city infrastructure systems can all work together for a solution that offers energy efficiency as well as the highest possible supply availability.

Read on to find out more.

F

or many years we have been fascinated with the futuristic view depicted in radio plays, books, television shows and films. We called this genre science fiction and names such as HG Wells, Jules Verne, Isaac Asimov and more recently Arthur C Clarke and Stanley Kubrick captured our imagination with their wonderful ideas of the future.

We also laughed at the outrageous ideas portrayed in animated cartoons set in a future where the lifestyle of the characters came from the creative genius of the animators. In many of these shows automation was a normal tool to provide a lifestyle where the environment was controlled to the optimum level that the characters required for comfort and security.

But wait, wasn’t one of these futuristic innovations an amazing travelling staircase that enabled people to travel from one floor to another without walking? We know it now as an escalator. In the 1800s people could only dream of flying. Then in 1903 the innovations of Orville and Wilbur Wright saw the first successful powered flight over a distance of about 37 metres. In just 66 years from this first experimental flight, man broke the sound barrier in flight and was able to set foot on the Moon after flying a distance of more than 400,000 km and return safely to earth.

10

We should not be surprised when science fiction becomes science fact.

In the world of building control and automation we have seen developments that may have seemed unrealistically futuristic become commonplace in a very short space of time. Not long ago we thought the humble light dimmer gave us the amazing ability to set an ambient lighting mood. Nowadays this can be achieved automatically and is considered commonplace.

In Europe the research and development engineers and technicians are looking to the future trend where building controls (including lighting, heating, cooling, security, comfort and household appliances), industrial control systems and city infrastructure systems can all work together for a solution that offers energy efficiency as well as the highest possible supply availability.

The idea has been cited as the ‘KNX city’ where an intelligent power grid (smart grid) is working with intelligent buildings.

The goal is to ensure the available grid capacity is managed in conjunction with the required building comfort levels and energy efficiency targets, to achieve a reliable and uninterrupted supply.

We have been encouraged to revise our lighting habits for some time. This has brought about the introduction of energy efficient

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

©iStockphoto.com/RadomanDurkovic

THE KNX CITY

lamps to replace the classic light bulbs in nearly all households.

We have also utilised basic lighting controls for some time in an effort to conserve energy consumption. Each step that we take is a step in the right direction, however, we are viewing the problem like an island rather than looking to the bigger picture.

The smart grid takes care of the demands on the network via information derived from smart electricity meters and matching network capacity with demand. The traditional smart home or building tries to conserve energy and increase comfort levels through lighting controls and efficient heating and cooling appliances. The increased use of renewable energy sources such as solar and wind energy also is individually controlled with smart technology.

We are making good progress with the smart use of these individual solutions, but are we really looking at the model of an intelligent city that will see us to our future requirements?

In order to ensure a solid foundation into the future, a major factor to be considered is that of standardisation and compliance. KNX is the world’s only international standard for home and building automation being defined in IEC 14543. Being an international standard means that product compliance can be ensured and systems can be futureproof due to the fundamental

requirements of the standard which ensures compatibility and interoperability.

Technological convergence is a term entering into the language of systems. Essentially this refers to the ability for different technological systems to evolve toward performing similar tasks on a common platform. KNX already provides this level of convergence through the standardisation of a variety of building management functions.

Linking all of these electrical components and systems provides an intelligent approach to building management and automation. With all of these building automation systems already available through the KNX common platform we can now look to the next step.

The KNX city concept looks to the bigger picture beyond the level of individual buildings or separate energy conservation measures. As the system from one building to another is on a common platform following a recognised IEC standard, we can provide simple communication between these buildings so that the intelligent building is becoming part of an intelligent neighbourhood. Renewable energy resources for example can be shared at the neighbourhood level. An excess supply of renewable energy at one building can be communicated to neighbouring building so that the neighbours load profile can efficiently utilise the extra resource locally. This could take demand away from the limited resources of the grid. This could also then extend to a suburb and further, to the entire city.

Working in reverse, if the smart grid has an issue with demand or another situation that could compromise the supply availability, a request could be sent to the linked neighbourhood for a reduction in demand in order to ensure supply availability.

One command from the grid could ask the neighbourhood to adjust an air-conditioning set point by 1 to 2 degrees across multiple buildings. Lighting levels could be dimmed by 2%. Certain loads could be delayed from coming online until the grid capacity is better placed to cope with this. All of these minor adjustments over the neighbourhood, suburb or city can have a small and potentially unrecognisable impact on the environment for the occupants of the building, but it could have a dramatic effect on averting the risk of a grid outage.

The building necessities of lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, window shading, security and comfort controls can be integrated with energy measurement and demand monitoring, grid capacity requirements and total city infrastructure services management.

Energy efficiency and energy conservation without intelligent building services engineering is an island approach. To have a variety of incompatible systems in building automation applications introduces unnecessary protocol conversion and risk. To use a system that is not compliant with an international standard lacks security of product supply and future design changes.

A ‘smart power grid’ electrical network without utilising an intelligent building is also lacking a holistic approach to the needs of an intelligent city. Does it all sound like another episode in a futuristic science fiction or fantasy?

The building blocks exist today. By applying the model we can work towards not only an intelligent building, we can seize the opportunity to develop the true city of the future. The KNX city.

ABB Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V787

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 11

Integrated building management system Schneider Electric has launched SmartStruxure Lite, an integrated software and hardware solution that enables small and medium-sized businesses to increase the energy efficiency of their buildings. According to the company, the solution also reduces operating costs, making retrofitting facilities with

LED floodlight range Vibe Lighting’s LED floodlights are suitable replacements for metal halide floodlights.

The floodlights are solid machined aluminium units with black gloss powdercoating and a polycarbonate face which protects the CREE LED chip inside.

The fitting is IP65 rated, making the floodlights resistant to dust and water.

In the floodlight range, there are six wattage variations, each with a lifespan of 50,000 h. The range includes a 20, 30, 50, 70, 120 and 200 W variation.

All fittings come with a flex and plug and have a colour temperature of 4000K (cool white). The lights have SAA approved certification.

The lights can be used in a range of areas, including: sporting arenas, car parks, abattoirs, warehouses, farms, sheds and gardens. They are suitable for use as security lighting.

the energy-saving solutions easier.

The building energy management solution is a combination of software and hardware packages using wireless technologies to deliver operating-efficient solutions for small to medium-sized buildings where an iBMS would previously not have been cost effective.

It uses a web-based control system that provides one-click access to remote monitoring of

ANL Lighting

lighting and power functions in a

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V598

building, as well as management of multiple sites. The company says the product offers a solution

LED light for medical applications Osram Opto Semiconductors has introduced the Osram Ostar Medical, an LED light with a colour-rendering index of 95. The ‘tunable white’ LED light offers the possibility of adjusting the temperature of the white light, making it suitable for medical applications such as operating rooms where a precisely controlled chromaticity coordinate and high natural colour rendering are required.

The light comprises four different LED chips in the colours warm white, ultra white, verde and amber. This enables users to set the shade of white emitted by the LED according to individual requirements within a colour temperature range of between 3700 and 5000K - at an overall CRI of 95.

When optimised for the red spectrum (RaR9), the CRI remains at around 95 so that red shades are true to life, making it suitable for light systems in operating rooms.

The compact light has a footprint of 5.9 x 4.8 mm and a housing height of 1.2 mm. The compact design is due to the flat, antireflex-coated glass cover with which the LED is equipped.

The component is standardised, meaning users can use the commonly available lenses.

The LED is simple to install with standard soldering processes.

12

for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) that previously had a limited budget for facilities or building maintenance.

The system covers HVAC, lighting, power applications, room and zone control, air-volume control and metering and sub-metering functions.

The iBMS is scalable, so it can be tailored to the size of the business as it expands. This allows the technology to grow with the building’s needs to meet the demand for improved NABERS rating for the building.

The solution can also be applied in retrofitting retail shops, hotels and motels, heritage buildings, schools, doctors’ offices and clinics and similar buildings. It uses wireless technology, eliminating the need to rewire any existing power controls or functions.

Osram Australia Pty Ltd

Schneider Electric Power Business

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V960

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V899

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

CASE STUDY

Lighting retrofit at Sistine Chapel

M

ultinational lighting manufacturer Osram is set to retrofit lighting at the Sistine Chapel in Rome, Italy. The artconserving installation is expected to enable significantly higher illuminance values and consume 60% less power compared to the existing lighting installation.

Osram will install around 7000 LEDs at the Sistine Chapel. The colour spectrum has been custom-adapted on a scientific basis and with high precision to the colour pigments of the paintings; for example, to the pigments in the Michelangelo frescoes. The luminaires will be installed away from view below the windows to make sure that light is emitted in the same direction as the natural daylight. Until now, the art could only be seen according to the ingress of daylight, and the view was limited by technological and conservational constraints.

The conservational aspect played a particularly important role during the planning of the project.

Illuminance of approximately 50 to 100 lux (previously 5 to 10 lux) ensures that the art can be clearly discerned, but with as little ageing as possible. In addition to the quality of the lighting, the new solution is said to be significantly more economical than the previous system. Although the level of brightness can be increased, the power consumption is expected to be reduced by more than 60%. The savings are due to the efficiency of LEDs and the highly exact light planning that illuminates the chapel with high precision and without light spill.

This pilot project, with the working title of LED4Art, is subsidised by the European Subsidy Program for Information and Communication Technology within the Framework Program on Competitiveness and Innovation (PSP-CIP). The aim of the subsidy program is to demonstrate new possibilities for LED technology with regard

14

to energy efficiency and improved quality of light, and thus to achieve more rapid market penetration for the new technology. In addition to the project coordinator Osram, other partners involved are the University of Pannonia in Hungary, the Institut de Recerca en Energia de Catalunya in Spain and the planning offices of Faber Technica in Italy.

Osram Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V737

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

9–10 APRIL 2014 | MELBOURNE PARK FUNCTION CENTRE, MELBOURNE OLYMPIC PARK

ACI Connect is Australia’s new conference and exhibition focused on automation, control and instrumentation technology, advances and applications.

ACI Connect is brought to you by Westwick-Farrow Media, publisher of What's New In Process Technology and ProcessOnline.com.au, and developer of industry-specific events like the Industrial Technology Regional Roadshows and (Radio) Comms Connect www.Comms-Connect.com.au.

If you are an industrial technology professional looking to enhance your knowledge base, engage in hands-on workshops and see the latest products and technologies, then you need to be in Melbourne on April 9–10 at ACI Connect.

Features of the conference program* include: • Wireless protocols panel discussion • Machinery safety workshops • Cybersecurity technical paper • Which bus? panel debate • Local case studies A FREE trade exhibition will feature the leading suppliers of automation, control and instrumentation products, technology and services.

Exhibition space is strictly limited. For more information or to book your space, contact Narelle Granger — ngranger@westwick-farrow.com.au or (02) 9487 2700. *The full conference program will be posted on the website in mid February.

Organised by:

Association Partner:

www.ACIconnect.com.au

Media partner:

LED lamps mimic candlelight Combined arrester for PV systems

Verbatim has launched its Natural Vision VxRGB technology, which mimics candle flames. It is

The DEHNcombo YPV SCI combined arrester

available as Classic B (realistic candle) and MR16

from DEHN reliably protects PV systems from

retrofit LED lamps.

surges caused by lightning. This arrester concept

True Candlelight LED lamps are designed to

combines a number of

give users the warmth and ambience of candle-

benefits for PV systems

light. Delivering 1900K colour temperature, the

in a single device. The

white light spectrum and intensity of the LED is

surge-protective device

claimed to closely match those of a real candle

combines a type 1 light-

flame - a feature not possible with traditional LED

ning current arrester

or incandescent lamps.

with a type 2 surge ar-

Suitable for use in decorative lighting fixtures such

rester. It incorporates the

as chandeliers, wall sconces and table settings,

proven Y circuit with the

the 2.5 W VxRGB candle LED has an E14 base

patented SCI technology

fitting and optics that include a flame tip design.

and takes up little space.

The range also includes a 6.5 W MR16 Natural

A compact, lightning

Vision LED lamp that produces 170 lumens out-

current carrying com-

put and has a CRI of 97 and correlated colour

bined arrester for the

temperature (CCT) of 2950K. Benefiting from a

DC side of photovoltaic

phosphor mixture to achieve high CRI with a well-

systems, it can be used

balanced spectrum, the MR16 LED lamp is also

without back-up fuse up to 1000 A. It has a total

suitable for retail or museum lighting to highlight

discharge current of 12.5 kA (10/350 µs) and a low-

objects in natural light.

voltage protection level, allowing coordination with terminal equipment.

The SCI technology with a combined disconnection and short-circuiting device is the core of the DEHNcombo YPV SCI. In case of overload, the arrester

The MR16 LED lamp with 25° beam angle uses diamond-cut optics to deliver glare-free illumination.

Verbatim Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V860

is safely disconnected and the DC switching arc is extinguished, since the arrester does not feature a mere disconnector but a switching concept specifically developed for PV systems. of the new CLC/FprTS 50539-12 standard and the

Constant-current LED driver

national supplement 5 of the DIN EN 62305-3 stand-

RECOM Lighting’s RACD07 constant-

ard. They have a short-circuit current rating Iscpv

current LED driver has a universal input

of 1000 A DC and can thus be used in both small

range of 90-295 VAC and is suitable

and large-scale systems. The combined arrester is

for a range of applications. Supplying

available for voltages of 600, 1000 and 1500.

a power of 7 W, the driver is available

The devices are tailored to meet the requirements

With a width of only four modules, the device is

with constant-current options of 250,

compact and space saving. Nevertheless, it features

350, 500 and 700 mA.

an operating-current-free operating state and fault

To facilitate the installation for

indication as well as a remote signalling contact which

applications with limited space, the

immediately provides information on the availability

connections are located on one

of each protective circuit.

side of the compact device, which

DEHN + SOHNE GmbH + Co KG

also includes a grounding clip for screw mounting. The RACD07 is

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V922

compliant with IP67, meaning it can be installed in damp rooms like sanitary facilities and basements, as well as exteriors.

The driver is short circuit- and overcurrent-protected and has a high isolation voltage of 3750 VAC between input and output.

The driver is certified to EN61347, EN61000-3-2 Class C and EN55015.

RECOM Asia Pte Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V659

16

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

UV-LED range SemiLEDs Corporation has released two product families - the 10 W high-power N9 series and the 0.17 to 0.5 W mid-power P50N series. Both families use SemiLEDs’ patented vertical LED structure that is claimed to deliver good performance in directional industrial applications such as printing, coating and curing, as well as specialty applications including signage and medical/cosmetic use.

The N9 series, housed on a 9 x 9 mm ceramic package, is offered in wavelengths from 385 to 420 nm in 5 nm bins. Drive currents up to 1000 mA deliver typical output of 5000 mW of optical power at the nominal 350 mA drive rate at 30 V. The lambertian output distribution is compatible with secondary optics to allow precise control of the high-intensity UV light. Compared to the standard 1000 to 4000 h life of the incumbent UV lamp technologies, vertical UV-LED systems support lifetimes of up to 50,000 h under optimal thermal management conditions, thereby decreasing system maintenance requirements.

With instant on/off capabilities and a compact point-source that is compatible with a variety of optics, the UV-LED allows solution integrators to eliminate components such as mechanical shutters or focusing windows.

The mid-power P50N UV-LED series consists of a complete product family available for 0.17, 0.34 and 0.50 W drive options, delivering up to 140 mW of output, for wavelengths from 385 to 420 nm in 5 nm bins. The 5 x 5 mm package is suitable for integration into compact arrays or for backlight elements in UV-driven signage.

The selection of output combinations simplifies the system integrator’s task by allowing a common design platform for portable device applications, such as cosmetics or health care, where differing performance profiles are needed to address separate curing or treatment functions.

SemiLEDs Corporation www.semileds.com

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 17

T

©iStockphoto.com/Kurt Paris

ATO SETS SIGHTS

he ATO has medium-sized businesses and wealthy individuals in its sights for 2013-14. Unsurprisingly, in a revenue constrained economy with a persistent government fiscal deficit, the ATO plans to conduct more tax compliance reviews and audits this year.

The ATO has flagged plans to undertake more than 1000 income tax reviews and audits of medium-sized businesses in 2013-14, compared to 931 in 2012-13. It has also undertaken to contact another 2500 medium-sized businesses to verify information. The ATO also plans to undertake 1500 reviews and audits of highly wealthy and wealthy Australian individuals, compared to around 677 in 2012-13.

At the same time we are witnessing state authorities, such as the NSW Office of State Revenue, becoming more demanding in such areas as payroll tax and land tax.

The right help at the right time is imperative. It is important to obtain professional help and approach a review or audit in the correct way from the beginning. This ensures that the right impression is made with the revenue officer, the right relationship is built with the revenue office, accurate and relevant information is provided in a complete and timely manner, and issues, such as avoiding any unnecessary waivers of legal professional privilege on communications with lawyers, are managed properly.

The ATO has a number of standards imposed on the conduct of its reviews and audits and any subsequent actions or settlements that may follow from these actions. These include the internally imposed requirements of the new ATO ‘Code of Settlement’ and legislative obligations such as: the requirement to follow the ‘good management rule’ (that not every potential dollar of tax revenue should be pursued, regardless of cost); the requirement to take ‘genuine steps’ to resolve tax disputes through the use of alternative dispute resolution whenever possible; the ‘model litigant’ rule to strictly follow proper court procedure if the dispute proceeds to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal or Federal Court. Consequently, in addition to the normal technical complexity, which accompanies an ATO or OSR review, there are a number of administrative and

18

ON MEDIUMSIZED BUSINESSES Arron Dickens

procedural areas of best practice that can make a significant difference to the outcome.

Getting the right help at the right time ensures the ATO follows the stipulated requirements for the conduct of its review and best practice procedures for tasks such as requesting information or requiring taxpayer interviews. The right advice will significantly increase the effectiveness of your communication with the relevant revenue authority.

Handling disputes A common question is if a dispute arises in connection with an ATO review or audit, does it go to the Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) or Federal Court? Going to the AAT or the Federal Court is not usually the first step in resolving a dispute with the ATO or Office of State Revenue should you be issued with an amended assessment subsequent to a review or audit. It is normal (and best) practice to proceed through the objection process provided in the Tax Acts.

This requires lodgement of an objection with the ATO and the subsequent discussions, provision of information and negotiations that follow. These require experienced hands to conduct properly.

If the objection is not successful you may then choose to proceed to the AAT or Federal Court. Again, even the decision concerning the forum in which to proceed is not necessarily simple: while the AAT may appear to be cheaper and less formal, it is not possible to appeal from the AAT to the Federal Court on matters of fact, or mixed matters of fact and law, so it is best to ensure that all factual matters are accounted for and presented carefully at the AAT. The Federal Court is more expensive, requires legal representation, and runs the hazard of costs being awarded, but is generally better for dealing with points of law and its decisions in matters of fact may later be appealed.

HLB Mann Judd www.hlb.com.au

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

Two great names help you put safety first.

Whether you’re responsible for circuit protection, power monitoring and control for a residential, commercial or industrial project, you can rely on Clipsal and Schneider Electric to provide superior products that will meet your specifications.

From the Clipsal Resi MAX™ and MAX 4 ranges, to the comprehensive Schneider Electric Acti 9™ range; when it comes to electrical safety we get it and we’ve probably got it. The global expertise of Schneider Electric combined with the local strength of Clipsal, provides you with more choice and greater confidence.

Discover more.

Download our new Clipsal Resi MAX and Acti 9 brochures today.

Visit www.SEreply.com Key Code 50977Y

© 2013 Schneider Electric. All Rights Reserved.

SEAU 26799

IMPROVING POWER QUALITY BY

REDUCING HARMONICS Sey-Veng Lu, product manager for ABB’s high-power drives, looks at the problems caused by harmonic distortion. He examines how plant operators can win their battle against an invisible enemy which has the potential to cause equipment failures that negatively impact on business.

H

armonic distortion or network noise is a form of pollution in the electricity supply that can make equipment behave erratically. Many industries are affected by network noise, especially where there is a large installed base of AC drives and other nonlinear loads. Harmonics can be difficult to identify and users often attribute the symptoms to other causes, frequently applying mitigating action that fails to solve the problem. Harmonics can be effectively dealt with if properly identified.

Harmonic distortion can cause problems if the sum of harmonic currents increases above certain limits. For instance, a mine site tends to operate many loads that are both susceptible to harmonics and which generate harmonics. A harmonic frequency is a multiple of the network frequency, for instance, a 250 Hz waveform on a 50 Hz network is the 5th harmonic.

A harmonic waveform represents energy that cannot be used by the connected equipment and this can make the equipment behave erratically - motors can overheat or become noisy, cable insulation can get damaged, circuit breakers can trip and meters can give false readings.

Harmonics are produced by non-linear loads, such as computer power supplies and electronic lighting, as well as both AC and DC drives. For example, a mining company tends to have large numbers of AC drives across many sites. Many of these sites are in remote locations with weak supplies and these are particularly prone to harmonics. Also the back-up generators used at many sites can be an additional source of, or be susceptible to, harmonics.

Identifying the cause Harmonics caused by AC drives can be managed and suppressed to a level where they no longer cause a problem, or can be eliminated altogether. However, problems caused by harmonics are frequently not recognised as such. As the user is not aware that the problems are caused by harmonics, inappropriate action is often taken, for instance, additional cooling and higher-rated transformers, cables and capacitors. Although such action may limit the problem it does not address the fundamental cause.

Reducing harmonics Most AC drives use diode rectifiers which create high levels of harmonics. These have to be mitigated after they have been created.

Filtering can be achieved with either a passive or an active filter.

A simple line reactor can reduce the harmonic levels; a passive filter will remove some or part of the spectrum; while a more effective way to get rid of harmonics is the active filter, which can target specific harmonic frequencies.

An alternative approach is to use a low harmonic drive. This has an active rectifier and a built-in LCL (inductor-capacitor-inductor) filter. The active rectifier is controlled to eliminate low-order harmonics, while the LCL filter suppresses the switching frequency components caused by the rectifiers’ semiconductors.

The type of filtering needed depends on the network and on the drive installation. On a 400 V network with just a single drive of no more than 37 kW, meeting the product standard EN 61000-3-12, no additional filtering is needed. A large number of independent small drives are best filtered by an active filter, while a few larger drives will, in most cases, be best suited for solutions involving low harmonic (active front end) drives. ABB has low harmonic drives for 415 V to 6.6 kV and ideal for new and upgrade projects.

Evaluating the cost Many solutions exist to mitigate harmonic distortion. However, it is not just the drives that need to be taken into account. The network also has a great influence and there is no substitute for a skilled pre-installation evaluation, which can save significant costs. ABB can also provide expertise from initial energy audits, power network surveys and harmonic analysis, to delivering tailored solutions across all areas of power quality.

There is no need to miss out on the benefits of variable-speed drives just for fear of harmonics. Variable-speed drives can vastly improve the efficiency and performance of motors, pumps and fans in many applications and offer plant operators enormous energy savings.

ABB Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V626

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 21

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

Thermal imaging camera series FLIR Systems has launched its improved FLIR Exx series of thermal imaging cameras.

The cameras are equipped with Meterlink and Bluetooth connections that enable fast and accurate inspections. Connecting thermal imaging cameras with other devices or measurement tools allows for easy information exchange with customers or colleagues.

FLIR Meterlink technology allows users to save time by transferring, via Bluetooth, the data acquired by an Extech clamp meter or multi-function moisture meter into the thermal imaging camera. In addition, the cameras can transfer images wirelessly to a smart phone or tablet PC. The cameras have an updated user interface and key pad that make them simple to operate. Measuring temperatures up to 650°C, they produce instant, ‘point-and-shoot’ JPEG thermal imagery and video recording/streaming with all required temperature data included.

The company’s MSX technology provides thermal images of good quality in real time, resulting in sharper thermal images, quicker target orientation and clutter-free reports. The cameras also offer combined storage of MSX, thermal, picture-in-picture (PiP) and visual images.

The cameras have an auto-orientation feature, which means that the cameras automatically adjust the measurement information on the display to the vertical or horizontal position of the camera.

The E40 gives thermal image quality of 160 x 120 pixels and can sense temperature differences as small as 0.07°C. The E50 gives image quality of 240 x 180 pixels and senses temperature differences as small as 0.05°C. The E60 offers image quality of 320 x 240 pixels and can sense temperature differences as small as 0.05°C. All models come with a 3.1 megapixel built-in visual camera.

FLIR Systems Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V897

Intrinsically safe thermal imager The TC7000 is claimed to be the first fully radiometric ATEX and IECEx certified intrinsically safe thermal imager. It is suitable for use in hazardous (explosive) areas within industry sectors, including oil and gas, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, mining, food processing, aviation and marine.

An intrinsically safe thermal imager can remove the need for a hot work permit as it is certified to operate within explosive areas safely.

The camera is easy to operate and is lightweight, weighing less than 1.3 kg. It can measure temperatures up to 600°C and reference each stored image to an RFID tag using its onboard RFID scanner.

It has a full colour screen and thousands of fully radiometric files can be stored easily with 8 GB of onboard memory and downloaded via USB into the cross-platform report and database, which is provided with the camera.

Applied Infrared Sensing Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V859

22

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

THE FUTURE OF REMOTE POWERING APPLICATIONS

Remote powering applications utilise the copper balanced twisted-pair IT cabling infrastructure to deliver DC power to IP-enabled devices. The popularity of this technology and the interest in expanding its capabilities is staggering.

I

n less than a decade, remote powering technology has revolutionised the look and feel of the IT world. Now, devices such as surveillance cameras, wireless access points, RFID readers, digital displays, IP phones and other equipment all share network bandwidth that was once exclusively allocated for computers.

It is common knowledge that the networking of remotely powered devices for autonomous data transmission and collection is driving the need for larger data centre infrastructures and storage networks. However, many executives aren’t aware that remote power delivery produces temperature rise in cable bundles and electrical arcing damage to connector contacts. Heat rise within bundles has the potential to cause higher bit errors because insertion loss is directly proportionate to temperature. In extreme environments, temperature rise and contact arcing can cause irreversible damage to cable and connectors. Fortunately, the proper selection of network cabling can completely eliminate these risks.

Choosing qualified shielded category 6A and category 7A cabling systems provides the following advantages that ensure a ‘futureproof’ cabling infrastructure capable of supporting remote powering technology for a wide range of topologies and operating environments: • Assurance that critical connecting hardware contact mating surfaces are not damaged when plugs and jacks are cycled under remote powering current loads.

• Higher maximum operating temperature for IEEE 802.3 Type 2 PoE Plus applications.

• Fully compliant transmission performance for a wider range of channel configurations in environments having an ambient temperature greater than 20°C. • A n option to support remote powering currents up to 600 mA applied to all four pairs and all networking applications up to and including 10GBase-T in 70°C environments over a full 4-connector, 100-metre channel topology.

• Reliable and thermally stable patching solutions for converged zone cabling connections (eg, device to horizontal connection point) in hot environments.

24

Protecting your connections Telecommunications modular plug and jack contacts are carefully engineered and plated (typically with gold or palladium) to ensure a reliable, low-resistance mating surface. Today’s remote powering applications offer some protection to these critical connection points by ensuring that DC power is not applied over the structured cabling plant until a remotely powered device (PD) is sensed by the power sourcing equipment (PSE). Unfortunately, unless the PD is shut off beforehand, the PSE will not discontinue power delivery if the modular plug-jack connection is disengaged. This condition, commonly referred to as ‘unmating under load’, produces an arc as the applied current transitions from flowing through conductive metal to air before becoming an open circuit. While the current level associated with this arc poses no risk to humans, arcing creates an electrical breakdown of gases in the surrounding environment that results in corrosion and pitting damage on the plated contact surface at the arcing location.

While it’s important to remember that arcing, and subsequent contact surface damage, is unavoidable under certain mating and unmating conditions, contacts can be designed in such a way as to ensure that arcing will occur in the initial contact ‘wipe’ area and not affect mating integrity in the final seated contact position.

To ensure reliable performance and contact integrity, Siemon recommends that only connecting hardware that is independently certified for compliance to IEC-60512-99-001 be used to support remote powering applications. This standard was specifically developed to ensure reliable connections for remote powering applications deployed over balanced twisted pair cabling. It specifies the maximum allowable resistance change that mated connections can exhibit after being subjected to 100 insertion and removal cycles under a load condition of 55 VDC and 600 mA applied to each of the eight separate plug/outlet connections.

Keeping it cool The standard ISO/IEC operating environment for structured cabling is -20 to 60°C. Compliance to industry standards ensures reliable, long-term mechanical and electrical operation of cables and con-

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

POWERING IP DEVICES

maximum permanent link length must be reduced from 90 metres to 72 metres to offset increased insertion loss due to temperature.

For minimally compliant category 6A F/UTP horizontal cables, the length reduction is 7 metres at 60°C, which means reducing maximum link length from 90 metres to 83 metres. The key takeaway is that shielded cabling systems have more stable transmission performance at elevated temperatures and are best suited to support remote powering applications and installation in hot environments.

©iStockphoto.com/blackred

A better patching solution

nectors in environments within these temperature limits. Exceeding the specified operating range can result in degradation of the jacket materials and loss of mechanical integrity that may have an irreversible effect on transmission performance that is not covered by a manufacturer’s product warranty. Since deployment of certain remote powering applications can result in a temperature rise of up to 10°C within bundled cables, the typical rule of thumb is to not install minimally compliant cables in environments above 50°C. This restriction can be problematic in regions such as the Northern Territory, the American southwest or the Middle East where temperatures in enclosed ceiling, plenum and riser shaft spaces can easily exceed 50°C. To overcome this obstacle, Siemon recommends the use of shielded category 6A and 7A cables that are qualified for mechanical reliability up to 75°C. Not only do these cables inherently exhibit superior heat dissipation, but they may be installed in high-temperature environments up to the maximum 60°C specified by TIA and ISO/IEC structured cabling standards without experiencing mechanical degradation caused by the combined effects of high-temperature environments and heat build-up inside cable bundles due to remote power delivery.

Maximising reach Awareness of the amount of heat build-up inside the cable bundle due to remote power delivery is important because cable insertion loss increases (signals attenuate more) in proportion to temperature.

The performance requirements specified in all industry standards are based on an operating temperature of 20°C. The temperature dependence of cables is recognised in cabling standards and both TIA and ISO specify an insertion loss de-rating factor for use in determining the maximum channel length at temperatures above 20°C. The temperature dependence is different for unshielded and shielded cables and the de-rating coefficient for UTP cable is actually three times greater than shielded cable above 40°C. For example, at 60°C, the standard-specified length reduction for category 6A UTP horizontal cables is 18 metres. In this case, the

While TIA and ISO/IEC temperature dependence characterisation focuses on the performance of solid conductor cables, it is well known that the stranded conductor cables used to construct patch cords exhibit significantly greater insertion loss rise due to elevated temperature than do solid conductor cables. To maximise flexibility and minimise disruptions when device moves, adds and changes are made, a zoned cabling solution is the topology of choice for the building automation systems (BAS) most likely to take advantage of remote powering solutions. However, most BAS horizontal connection points in a zoned topology are located in the ceiling or in plenum spaces where high temperatures are most likely to be encountered. Fortunately, the risk of performance degradation due to elevated temperatures in zone cabling environments can be mitigated by using solid conductor cords for equipment connections.

The future of remote powering applications The advent of remote powering technology has significantly increased the number of networked devices, with surveillance cameras, IP phones and wireless access points driving the market for PoE chipsets today. As the PD market matures, new and emerging remote powering technology continues to evolve to support advanced applications, improved efficiency and increased power delivery. Power over HDBaseT, UPOE and the work of the IEEE 802.3 4-Pair Power over Ethernet Study Group formed to investigate more efficient power injection schemes are enabling remote powering applications that will support new families of devices, such as lighting fixtures, high-definition displays, digital signage and point-of-sale (POS) devices that can consume more than 30 W of power. All trends indicate that four-pair power delivery is the future of remote powering technology. Choosing connectors and cables that are specifically designed to handle remote powering current loads, associated heat build-up and contact arcing are important steps that can be taken to minimise the risk of component damage and transmission errors.

Conclusion As the market for remotely powered IP devices grows and more advanced powering technology is developed, the ability of cables and connectors to operate in higher temperature environments and perform under DC load conditions will emerge as critical factors in the long-term reliability of cabling infrastructure used to support PoE and other low-voltage applications that deliver power over twisted pairs. Fortunately, cabling products designed to operate under demanding environmental and remote powering conditions are already available today.

Siemon Australia Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V748

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 25

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

Narrow space power supply series The Wieland Electric Wipos PB1 power supply series is designed for low installation heights and narrow installation spaces that are common for small distribution boards, shunting distributors and control cabinet applications.

Power buffer module The FEAS SSE2410 buffer module for 24 VDC systems is designed to help ensure a reliable and uninterrupted power supply, even during heavy network fluctuations, such as power brownouts.

For maintenance-free operation, the module has been built with an onboard accumulator pack. This allows the device to be used within systems which are located in areas that are difficult to access, such as offshore platforms or in applications where maintenance involves a high financial cost.

The aluminium casing is completely cast sealed with a durable For some buildings, electrical installations are often laid in suspended ceilings, in intermediate floors or in the trunking. With this in mind, the switching power supplies are designed for 0.42 to 4.2 A and are mounted on DIN rails with screw connection also possible from 2.5 A upwards.

These compact AC/DC power supply units supply 100% output at ambient temperatures of up to 60°C and can be used in a wide temperature range between -25 and +70°C, as well as in outside areas.

Other features of the series include long hold-up times of >60 ms, compensation of voltage drops through adjustable output voltage as well as a broad-range voltage input for worldwide use. The LED diagnosis enables easy commissioning and the power supply series meets all necessary standards and is approved for UL and CE required installations.

Treotham Automation Pty Ltd

epoxy resin, ensuring that the entire electronic system is optimally protected against humidity and dirt.

The module has a flexible and modular design. To improve performance, it is possible to either cascade or connect the modules in parallel. Selective protection of critical loads is possible as well as remote monitoring via relay contacts.

The device is overload and open-circuit protected, and also short-circuit proof. Stored energy capacity is 0.95 Wh (3.42 kJ), input voltage range is 23.5 to 32 VDC, and the buffered voltage range is 22.5 to 30 VDC, with an operating temperature range of -30 to +80°C. Automated Control Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V566

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V858

26

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

NECA national award winners announced James Tinslay, CEO As we head into the festive period this year, it’s certainly clear that this is not going to be a dull period. The new federal government seems to be giving us a taste of what’s to come next year - and let’s hope they keep up the pace. There’s certainly a lot to do if we want to get businesses back on track.

When I look back to my last update I have to admit that not a lot has moved on in terms of industry issues.

In the case of national licensing we are assured that this is on the government’s agenda for 2014. We believe that a number of options are being considered including adopting the ‘driving licence’ option. In that scenario you would register your business in your own state but your qualifications would be recognised in the other states and territories as well. And you would not have to maintain multiple registration and training logs. So that could be an easy-to-administer option that may suit the government given the time and budget challenges it is facing.

We are already seeing more general changes being introduced to make doing business easier and we hope this is just the beginning of what’s to come. We expect a lot of changes to be announced over the next two months and sense that 2014 will be a year of change. Hopefully, all for the better.

This is also a very busy time of the year for NECA. We have just had our national awards and once again have been enormously impressed by the calibre of the entries.

The national finalists met in Sydney this year and both events were a huge success.

State winners from across Australia came to the national awards ceremony with great expectations. In some categories we had as many as seven finalists. We saw projects as diverse as upgrading the Sydney Harbour Bridge’s communications network through to work on Jamie Oliver’s new restaurant in WA. The winning projects were competed over the past 12 months or so. And they included the Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) in New South Wales, the Sir Samuel Griffith Centre in Queensland and the Anderson Point Port in Western Australia.

Three Queensland projects, two New South Wales projects and one each from Victoria, Western Australia, Australian Capital Territory and Tasmania received the top national awards in front of over 400 industry representatives including contractors, educators and government representatives at the showcase event of the electrical and communications industry at the Sheraton on the Park in Sydney. www.neca.asn.au

Wind Energy

Photovoltaics

Communications

Process Industry

Transportation

Security Systems

DEHN Australia EMAIL: info@dehn.com.au WEB: www.dehn.com.au TEL: +61 (03) 8414 8277 PO Box 290, South Melbourne, VIC 3205 Australia Distributors throughout Australia and New Zealand

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 27

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION

IR windows

Contractor mentoring program Malcolm Richards, CEO While starting up a new business can be an exciting and heady challenge, many first-time business owners unconsciously step into a minefield of paperwork, administration duties and financial needs that come hand in hand with setting up a new business. MEA understands that starting a new business, and keeping it not only going but flourishing, can be a difficult challenge for many tradies new to the game.

This was why MEA recently introduced the Pre-contractor Program - designed to provide expert mentoring advice and training in business management completely free of charge, and empowering electricians with the skills and knowledge needed to give themselves a head start in the business world.

All too often industry sees ambitious new contractors entering the marketplace without the skills or experience needed to run a successful business. They have the right skills as sparkies but not the business know-how needed to manage a prosperous company. In the long run, this leads to electrical contractors paying the price by picking up the pieces when a new and inexperienced business is forced to close down.

The Pre-contractor Program provides electricians with the opportunity to learn the tricks of the business trade from an experienced industry mentor, boosting the success rate of small businesses within the sector.

Mentors in the program meet with their allocated precontractor for six face-to-face mentoring sessions. They’ll also be able to attend webinars and events specific to the program, which aims to provide in-depth expert advice on a variety of business-related topics. Most importantly, they’ll have the support they need from someone with experience and an understanding of the business world.

Eligible pre-contractors must meet the following criteria: have permanent residency, that is, as an Australian citizen or as a permanent resident of Australia; not be an undischarged bankrupt; not have previously completed the small business qualifications; and not be subsidised from other government funding, including Commonwealth, states and territories, for the same eligible qualifications offered under the AtoB Program.

To apply for the Pre-contractor Program either as a mentor or mentee, contact MEA on 1300 889 198. Participants of the program must be located in Queensland, New South Wales or Victoria.

MEA’s Pre-contractor program is funded by the Department of Industry and sponsored by CNW. Programs such as these aim to equip electricians with training and expert mentoring to enable them to make informed career choices and boost their chances of business success.

The views and opinions expressed in this document are those of MEA and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Australian government or state and territory governments. www.masterelectricians.com.au

The Fluke ClirVu CV Series IR windows eliminate the need to open the panel door to take infrared camera readings and have an installation time of five minutes or less.

The series offers protection for electricians, engineers and inspectors who work around high-energy equipment. They are said to be Torture Tested to the highest arc blast test ratings and, when properly installed, maintain a panel arc test rating of up to 63 kA. Once installed, there’s no need to power down or remove panels. Inspections can be conducted quickly, easily and safely - often with little, if any, personal protective equipment. Installation is said to take one technician five minutes or less. Simply lockout-tagout, punch one hole with a standard conduit punch without removing the panel door, attach and secure the cover. The AutoGround feature instantly grounds the IR window to the metal enclosure, eliminating the need to separately ground each metal component of the window. The hinged cover is easily opened with a quarter-turn latch or key to perform infrared inspections. It also protects the window from accidental exterior impact.

Fluke Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V789

High-current feedthrough terminal Phoenix Contact’s PWO 16-pot high-current feedthrough terminal is a moulded terminal with a push-in connection. It consists of inner and outer parts which interlock through the housing panel without requiring any tools. The outer part provides wire connection via a push-in spring at a 45° angle; the inner part provides connection via a straight ring cable lug.

The

high-current

feedthrough terminal can handle currents up to 76 A and voltages up to 1000 V. Despite its compact dimensions, the moulded terminal - or terminal with suitable spacer plates - fully complies with the 600 V UL requirements according to UL 1059.

The push-in spring provides fast and tool-free connection of wires with diameters ranging from 1.5 to 16 mm2. Rigid wires and wires with ferrules are simply inserted into the clamping point, where the spring securely pushes them against the current bar. To connect finely stranded wires without ferrules, the terminal is held open using a standard screwdriver.

Rittal Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V836

28

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

TESTING

©iStockphoto.com/kodda

THERMAL AGEING OF PVC CABLES

Thermal ageing of polymer cables can lead to serious safety, performance and cost issues. Martin Francis discusses thermal testing and operating temperature ranges for general-market PVC cables.

A

ustralia experiences temperatures ranging from -10 to +40°C depending on location and season. Cables installed in roof and wall cavities risk encountering extreme heat for prolonged periods during their service life, this exposure can be exacerbated by installations where thermal insulation is encountered.

Modern cables are manufactured using polymers formulated to give the following characteristics: electrical protection, mechanical protection, ease of installation (cable preparation at termination), and long service life.

Thermal ageing of polymers over time may cause a loss of these characteristics such that a cable can be rendered unsafe for its intended daily use. Critical aspects of type testing for low-voltage consumer cables include thermal-based testing. These tests are designed to give a representation of the deleterious effects on cable components due to prolonged exposure to heat.

Insulation and sheath compounds The most common insulation and sheath compounds used in ‘general building wires’, those being manufactured to AS/NZS 5000.1 and 5000.2, are polyvinyl chloride (PVC). A typical formulation will consist of: PVC copolymer, mineral fillers, lubricants, stabilisers (thermal), plasticisers and colourants.

In a correctly formulated compound, these components are blended to provide excellent electrical, mechanical and processing capabilities. In relation to thermal performances of the various PVC compounds the following characteristics are evaluated:

Loss of mass Loss of mass is the evaluation of loss of plasticisers and lubricants due to volatilisation during heating. The temperature and duration of ageing is dependent on the type of compound and its temperature rating, for example, a V-90 compound will be aged at 115 ± 2°C for 120 hours. The test consists of comparison of weight of the compound before and after ageing.

Accelerated ageing Accelerated ageing takes place in ovens using prescribed temperature, air flow and air disturbance. The temperature and duration of ageing is dependent on the type of compound and its temperature rating, for example, a V-90 compound will be aged at 115 ± 2°C for 504 hours.

The test consists of a comparison of the physical characteristics (tensile and elongation) of the compound based on before- and afterageing values, effectively reporting loss in mechanical properties.

Pressure test (hot deformation) Pressure testing is the measure of deformation of a compound due to force during a heat cycle. As with the previous two tests, the temperature is dependent on the type of compound and its temperature rating, for example, a V-90 compound will be tested at 90 ± 2°C. A load is applied to the specimen over a prescribed area during heating. The specimen is cooled under load and the resultant permanent deformation (indent) is measured.

Heat shock Heat-shock testing is a measure of a compound’s ability to withstand heating under stress without cracking. In this test, specimens are wound onto a mandrel and heated at 150 ± 3°C for one hour. After cooling the specimens are examined for any cracking.

Plasticiser exudation This test, although performed at 23 ± 2°C, is important in that it is designed to provide an indication of the stability of the plasticiser base of the PVC compound.

Failure mechanism When exposed to heating, poorly formulated PVC compounds will rapidly demonstrate a loss of physical properties due to loss of plasticiser. Operation in elevated temperatures (such as found in roof cavities and cladded walls) is the primary concern for these cable types. The main failure reported is cracking of the insulation

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 31

TESTING

and sheaths, exposing the conductors and rendering the installation unsafe. Instances of green, oily fluid leaking at switches and power points should be investigated. While the oily substance itself is not electrically dangerous, it is a known indicator of thermal ageing in poorly formulated PVC compounds.

In Australia there is not a propensity to operate low-voltage PVC cables at current ratings high enough to cause thermal degradation due to self heating. Australian Standard 3008.1.1 considers current ratings for PVC insulated cables at a maximum continuous operating temperature of 90°C. This rating is qualified by note 3 of table 1 - Limiting temperature for insulated cables viz: “The normal operating temperature of thermoplastic cables, including flexible cords installed as installation wiring, are based on a conductor temperature of 75°C. This is due to the risk of thermal deformation of insulation if the cables are clipped, fixed or otherwise installed in a manner that exposes the cable to severe mechanical pressure at higher temperatures.

V-90 and V-90HT insulated cables may be operated up to the maximum permissible temperatures 90 and 105°C provided that the cable is installed in a manner that is not subject to, or is protected against, severe mechanical pressure at temperatures higher than 75°C. Such applications also allow for cables to be used in - (a) locations where the ambient temperatures exceeds the normal 40°C, eg, equipment wiring in luminaires and heating appliances, or in roof spaces affected by high summer temperatures; and (b) locations affected by bulk thermal insulation that restricts the dissipation of heat from the cable ...”.

How to determine if a cable is suitable for the intended operating temperature In Australian Standards, cable insulation and sheaths compounds have designations to define their performance criteria and specific uses.

COMMS + DATA

The AS/NZS 3808 - Insulating and sheathing materials for electric cables nominates V-75, V-90 insulation & 3V-75, 3V-90, 4V-75 & 5V-90 sheath designations - these compound designations are called up in the relevant cable build standards for these cable types. These designations are cross referenced in both AS/NZS 3008.1.1 - Electrical installations - Selection of cables - Cables for alternating voltages up to and including 0.6/1 kV - typical Australian installation conditions and AS/NZS 3000 - the wiring rules.

For all cables manufactured to AS/NZS 5000.1 or 5000.2 the insulation compound designation must be shown in the cable sheath markings, hence a product such as 2.5 mm2 2-core and earth flat building wire will have in the marking legend either the compound designation V-75 or V-90, dependent on the manufacturers choice of compounds. By reference to table 1 of AS/NZS 3008.1.1 it can be seen that V-75 designated compounds are suitable for a maximum permissible temperature of 75°C and a V-90 designated compound is suitable for a maximum permissible temperature of 90°C (subject to previously stated note 3).

Summary Whichever marking is shown on the sheath, the primary responsibility for the cable supplier is to ensure all relevant testing has been performed to ensure the integrity of the compounds used in the cable and that such compounds are suitable for the operating temperatures indicated by the insulation designation. It is the responsibility of the installer to select and install wiring within the guidelines of AS/NZS 3000 Wiring Rules, to ensure thermal runaway conditions are mitigated.

Prysmian Cables & Systems Australia Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V969

19″ rack switches Phoenix Contact has available rugged managed switches for deployment in 19″ racks as used in control centres and data centres. In the past, these types of systems frequently relied on devices designed for office environments, which made them of limited use in industrial applications.

The new switches offer all the advantages of industrial ethernet in a suitable 19″ rack format. They are designed for extreme electromechanical and climatic conditions and fully comply with the IEC 61850-3 and IEEE 1613 requirements for deployment in energy systems. The switches provide fanless operation and can handle a wide temperature range extending from -40 to +70°C. This ensures ongoing availability even when the heating or air-conditioning system fails. Redundant power supplies offer additional system stability and permit maintenance and replacement during live operation. Despite a high port count of 28 ethernet ports, the units only take up one rack unit in the switching cabinet. Depending on requirements, the switches are available with copper or fibre-optic ports. In addition to managed switches, Phoenix Contact offers a wide range of infrastructure components for 19″ racks in control systems and data centres. These include solutions for structured cabling, network security, power supply and surge protection. Using a special adapter, compact industrial devices designed for DIN rail mounting can be easily installed in 19″ racks.

Phoenix Contact Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V733

32

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

COMMS + DATA

Gigabit ethernet tester The Ideal Industries UniPRO MGig1 E bidirectional, single-port and dualport ethernet testers are now available with the UniPRO SEL1 intelligent loop-back device. The MGig1 technology makes it possible to test the actual performance of ethernet links, testing the performance under service-level agreements including the performance of Q in Q, a technique whereby packets are transmitted over a customer’s own or rented backbone network with VLAN tags appropriate to nested private networks.

Using these testers in combination with the intelligent loop-back device permits the end-to-end testing of long-distance links without having to dispatch skilled technicians to remote locations. The loop-back device is simple to employ, and can be sent out to a remote site with the minimum of instructions as to how to plug it in. The link test is then carried out by a single, experienced technician. The device is completely and remotely controlled by the technician.

The solo version, in combination with either a second instrument or with the UniPRO SEL 1, is able to test for throughput, latency, jitter, frame loss and system recovery. These testers test BERT in ethernets from level 1 to level 4. The solo version has a single copper port and is supplied with two, 30 cm Cat 5e patch cables. There are dual copper port versions available and these are equipped with optical ports permitting the testing of fibre-optic links.

Connectors with EMC protection ifm efector’s ecolink EVC series connectors provide permanent high EMC protection. The asymmetrically acting saw-tooth contoured vibration protection holds the coupling nut tight in position. In addition to screening, this ensures a low contact resistance between the nut of the connector and the housing of the connected device.

This ensures a permanent high protection against interfering fields.

Connectors are often exposed to harsh environmental conditions.

The ecolink connectors’ integrated mechanical end stop made from FKM protects against destruction from overtightening of the nut.

A torque wrench is not necessary. ifm efector pty ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V578

The testers and the loop-back devices are engineered to allow three to eight levels of VLAN within VLAN nesting for RFC2544, Y.1564 (NetSAM), BERT and SLA-Tick testing. The most complete test is RFC 2544 - a specification developed by the Internet Engineering Task Force.

Power Parameters Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V796

FREE SUBSCRIPTION! ECD Solutions is FREE to qualified industry professionals

in Australia & New Zealand.

To continue receiving your free copy you will be asked to register every three years.

Quick registration @ www.ECDsolutions.com.au/subscribe 34

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

DATA CENTRES AIM FOR THE STARS

Data centres account for around 1.5% of Australia’s total annual energy consumption - and, given our increasing reliance on computing and mobile technology, this figure is likely to continue to grow. In a competitive market, companies can stay ahead of the pack by demonstrating the energy efficiency of their data centres.

I

n February 2013, NABERS announced the new NABERS Energy rating tools for data centres, which enable data centre owners, operators and tenants to obtain ratings for their data centre infrastructure, IT equipment, or both.

Why rate with NABERS? “With data centres responsible for 1.5% of Australia’s total annual energy consumption, the need for tools to enable greater energy efficiency in this sector is evident,” Environment Minister Robyn Parker said in February 2013, when the new data centre rating tools were released.

NABERS Energy for data centres is a set of benchmarking tools for measuring the energy efficiency and environmental impact of a data centre.

The rating condenses a large amount of information about a data centre’s energy efficiency and emissions intensity into an easy-to-understand star rating from one to six, where a rating of one indicates very poor energy efficiency and a rating of six indicates market-leading performance.

There are three different NABERS Energy ratings: • NABERS Energy for data centres (Infrastructure) • NABERS Energy for data centres (IT equipment) • NABERS Energy for data centres (Whole facility) The three different ratings enable organisations to more accurately compare the energy efficiency performances of data centres.

Because each rating type analyses a data centre based on the service it provides, data centres or IT equipment owners are not penalised for factors beyond their control.

36

NABERS Energy for data centres (Infrastructure) Designed for data centre owners and managers, this rating determines a facility’s energy efficiency in supplying infrastructure services to the IT equipment in the data centre. It is suitable for colocation centres in which the operators supply cooling, power delivery and security systems but have no control over the tenant’s IT equipment.

The Infrastructure rating uses the power usage effectiveness (PUE) ratio, which measures how efficiently a data centre uses its power. It distinguishes between the power consumed by IT equipment and power consumed by the infrastructure services.

As NABERS is an emissions-based rating, PUE is expressed in kilograms of emissions.

To calculate the rating, IT equipment electricity consumption and infrastructure services energy consumption are measured over a 12-month period. The consumption of external energy (such as electricity, gas, diesel and coal) used by each piece of equipment is determined from utility meter readings.

Infrastructure services include: • Air conditioning • Lighting • Power back-up, including generator fuel and UPSs • Power distribution, including power distribution units (PDUs) • Security services for the data centre The NABERS website (www.nabers.gov.au) has a NABERS Infrastructure self-assessment calculator that gives an indication

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

ENERGY RATINGS

compute and store data with the energy used (and associated emissions), awarding a higher rating for data centre equipment that consumes less energy for a given level of capacity.

NABERS Energy for data centres (Whole facility) As the name implies, this rating assesses the energy efficiency of the facility as a whole, taking into account both IT equipment and infrastructure. It is designed for organisations which manage and own the data centre, or where internal metering arrangements preclude a separate IT Equipment or Infrastructure rating.

©iStockphoto.com/Baran Ozdemir

Improving your Infrastructure rating

of a data centre’s star rating. The following information is required for self assessment: • Energy consumption (IT): 12 months of energy consumption data for the assessable IT equipment.

• Energy consumption (infrastructure): 12 months of energy consumption data for the infrastructure services.

• Location: the postcode of the data centre’s physical location.

For a NABERS Accredited Assessment, a business will need to provide the following information: • Energy consumption of all IT equipment over a 12-month period.

• Energy consumption for infrastructure services over the same 12-month period.

• A single line diagram showing the location of meters within the data centre.

• The postcode of the data centre’s location.

The NABERS assessor will need to see full copies of bills as they need to determine energy consumption, rather than energy costs.

NABERS Energy for data centres (IT equipment) This rating specifically analyses IT equipment such as servers, storage devices and network equipment, but does not take into account data centre support services such as air conditioning, lighting and security. It is relevant to organisations that own or manage IT equipment, rather than those which manage infrastructure or data centres in their entirety. It is also useful for businesses wishing to measure just IT equipment, rather than a data centre as a whole. The rating compares the capacity to

NABERS offers several suggestions for improving the efficiency of infrastructure services: • fine-tuning and commissioning the HVAC controls • implementing hot/cold aisle containment • installing occupancy-based lighting controls • using more efficient UPSs and PDUs • using PDU level metering In addition, the ASHRAE 2012 Thermal Guidelines for Data Processing Environments (Third Edition) allows for higher temperatures in data centres. Adhering to these guidelines can lower electricity usage and, in turn, emissions.

First Australian data centre rated Fujitsu’s Noble Park data centre has become the first in Australia to receive the certified NABERS Energy for data centres rating.

The data centre received a 4-star rating, which NABERS says represents good performance on the NABERS 6-star scale. Fujitsu completed a NABERS Energy for data centres (Infrastructure) rating, which assesses the efficiency of the building services (such as cooling and lighting), but not the efficiency of the IT equipment within the data centre.

Good for business, environment and industry “This is excellent news for the data centre industry, for businesses and for the environment,” said Tom Grosskopf, Director of the Metropolitan Branch at the Office of Environment and Heritage.

“By rating its facility with NABERS Energy for data centres, Fujitsu is demonstrating its commitment to sustainability and helping to make efficient centres the industry standard.

“With the energy-intensive data centre industry expanding so rapidly, energy efficiency in this sector is essential for helping to minimise future price rises and improving the competitiveness of Australian data centres. The widespread use of NABERS Energy for data centres ratings will be a central component of this.”

What the customer says “NABERS is a comprehensive and trusted assessment that has provided our customers with validation of our application of best practices in this area,” said Mike Foster, CEO of Fujitsu Australia and New Zealand.

“We have made significant investments in our data centre infrastructure in Australia including a recent upgrade of the Noble Park facility. We are pleased to be awarded a 4-star NABERS rating; it is an excellent reflection of the focus we have placed on this important aspect of our business.”

More information on the NABERS Energy for Data Centres ratings is available on the NABERS website: www.nabers.gov.au.

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 37

COMMS + DATA

Making sure the NBN delivers

Paul Stathis, CEO

Regardless of how the NBN is rolled out - FTTH or FTTN - having the NBN delivering super-fast broadband to Australian homes doesn’t guarantee an improved internet experience. That’s because the NBN infrastructure is only part of the picture, albeit the biggest.

The last 10-odd metres from the NBN box (NTD) to PCs, smart TVs, IP security cameras, etc that’s often overlooked plays a pivotal role in the user’s experience. With the wrong infrastructure inside the house, broadband could drop to a trickle beyond the NTD. Further exacerbating the dilemma, over a million security and health-alarmed homes are at risk of malfunctioning if existing alarms aren’t correctly interfaced with the NBN. That’s about to change, because Australia’s cabling registrars, of which BICSI is one, have collectively developed www.registeredcablers.com.au - a website providing guidance for industry and consumers to get it right so that the NBN delivers on expectations, right up to the devices: • What to do when the NBN is installed to an existing home; • How to cost-effectively prepare a new home or renovation for reliable broadband delivery; • What technology options are available to consumers and what are their pros and cons; • How and where to find qualified cablers; and • How cablers can promote themselves to local communities to show that they’re qualified and available to provide infrastructure beyond the NTD. The primary goal of this initiative is to educate consumers and industry on getting the NBN right, all the way up to the device, not just to the home. It’s a collaborative development by the cabling registrars that administer compliance to the Cabling Provider Rules for the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), in association with the International Copper Association Australia.

Cablers can find the facts on broadband reticulation and detailed information on the technologies they can offer consumers. With the appropriate qualifications, they will also be able to register their availability to be contacted by consumers seeking their services to make homes ‘NBN-ready’. Consumers can be guided on the various options to deploy in their homes, including wireless, power line communications (PLC) and structured cabling (Cat 5/6); find qualified cablers who can interface existing security and health alarms to the NBN; and be more informed when speaking with internet service providers (ISPs) before deciding on what steps to take, be it a little or a lot.

NBN Co has no involvement in what consumers do ‘downstream’ of the NTD. www.registeredcablers.com.au is a ‘destination’ that NBN Co directs consumers to, to obtain factual, non-commercial and unbiased guidance on making their home ‘NBN-ready’. NBN Co Call Centres are referring enquiries about infrastructure beyond the NTD to www.registeredcablers.com.au.

ISPs provide content to consumers and typically don’t have the resources to provide individualised broadband reticulation in consumers’ homes. While a few ISP/RSPs may elect to undertake this service, most ISP/RSPs will be happier to direct their customers and prospective customers to www.registeredcablers.com.au. Several of the major ISP/RSPs have already endorsed the website and will refer its customers to it. www.bicsi.com.au

Switches and security routers Switches and security routers from the current Phoenix Contact product range are now certified by ABB as “Industrial IT Enabled”.

Due to the ABB certification, these network components from the Factory Line family belong to a portfolio suited to solutions in automation and information technology designed by ABB users. Testing for certification proved unlimited compatibility with the ABB Industrial 800xA automation architecture.

The SFN switches, SMCS managed switches, as well as the MGUARD GT/GT, RS2000 and RS4000 security routers, are documented with the ‘Industrial IT Enabled’ certificate of ABB. This means that users can combine the devices with other Industrial IT components.

Phoenix Contact Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V898

Vectored VDSL2 testing solution Telebyte’s VxT-48 xTalk Emulator is a solution for physical layer testing of equipment that utilises vectoring technology.

The technology allows for a more efficient utilisation of existing copper infrastructure by cancelling the crosstalk between neighbouring pairs within a cable. This is said to increase data rates far beyond current levels, making bandwidth-intensive applications such as IPTV and triple play available in areas where it was not possible before.

It offers repeatable and configurable vectoring performance testing of up to 48 independent loops in one complete unit. Multiple units are suitable for parallel testing to ensure consistent performance from site to site. The product design emulates FEXT between loops 2, 4 and 6 of WT-249 (Revision 08).

The VxT-48 emulates the symmetric model of the ATIS multipleinput multiple-output (NIPP-NAI-2009-014R3) on 48 channels (using the upper-left 48 x 48 quadrant of the 100 x 100 random-drawn matrix). It also models crosstalk between xDSL multipairs within a cable binder and is sufficient for automatically running test cases for systems with vectoring capabilities. The simulation accuracy is principally focused on the attenuation of the direct and crosstalk paths rather than the phase/delays.

TelecomTest Solutions Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V681

38

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

COMMS + DATA

Pre-loaded enclosure range Hager is releasing four loaded golf enclosures. The enclosure packages are pre-loaded with a main switch, three RCBOs, a busbar and accessories.

The enclosures also include the accessories that come standard will all golf enclosures: busbar, pole fillers, busbar insulating strips, patented marking system and cable management clips.

The loaded golf range comprises the VS12PS631610, the VS12PM631610, the VS12PM632010 and the VS12TM632010.

The VS12PS631610 comes with one 12-pole opaque enclosure, one 63 A Iso switch with red toggle, two 6 kA RCBOs 16 A Type A and one 6 kA RCBO 10 A type A. The VS12PM631610 comes with one 12-pole opaque enclosure, one 63 A MCB, two 6 kA RCBOs 16 A Type A and one 6 kA RCBO 10 A Type A. The VS12PM632010 comes with one 12-pole opaque enclosure, one 63 A MCB, two 6 kA RCBOs 20 A Type A and one 6 kA RCBO 10 A Type A. The VS12TM632010 comes with one 12-pole transparent enclosure, one 63 A MCB, two 6 kA RCBOs 20 A Type A and one 6 kA RCBO 10 A Type A.

440 V plugs and sockets The 3h 440 V plugs and sockets in ABL Sursum’s CEE Form Shipping Container range provide 32 A 4-pin connections for applications where external power is required, such as refrigerated containers.

With the same mounting hole centres as the Mennekes version, the ABL Sursum connectors enclose nickel-plated contacts in PC/ABS plastic to provide IP67 protection.

The Turn2Fix system used on the panel mount and cable connectors allows tool-less assembly and the plugs are mechanically linked to the sockets after insertion to prevent accidental disconnection.

The plugs and sockets are temperature resistant from -25 to +80°C. The contacts are manufactured from a copper-zinc alloy, which the company says offers good performance.

Connector-Tech ALS Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V964

Hager Electro Pty Ltd Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V599

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 39

Australasia’s Leading Summit for Field Service & Workforce Mobility Main Conference: 19 - 20 March 2014 Interactive Workshops: 20 – 21 March 2014 Venue: Australian Technology Park, Sydney, NSW

Improving Mobile Workforce Productivity and Service Delivery KEY SPEAKERS INCLUDE: Craig Omundsen Infrastructure Asset Management Advisor, Strategic Technical Services, Riyadh AECOM

Rob Coulson Manager Technology Projects Powercor Network Services

Ben Somerville Spatial Systems Manager, Spatial Engineering Services Thiess

Paul Eagling General Manager A.G. Coombs Servicing

ECD Solutions readers save 25%!

Simply quote ‘ECD25%’ when booking.*

Kim Collison Field Service Administrator, Surface Mining – Australasia Joy Global

Maxmise your time out of the office with these 4 interactive workshops: Workshop A:

Workshop B:

Workshop C:

Workshop D:

Building Effective Field Service Mobility Strategies with Mobile Technology and GIS

Strategies for Successful Implementation of Field Services

Maximising Customer Service and Customer Satisfaction with FSM

Create your own FSM Application to Meet the Needs of your Field Staff and Organisation

* Discounts are not applicable to vendors (e.g. providers of technology solutions, software and devices).

Event Partners:

Associate Sponsors:

Media Partners:

BOOK NOW!

Exhibitors:

Organised by:

+61 2 9229 1000 • registration@iqpc.com.au • www.fsmaustralia.com.au

FIELD SERVICE MANAGEMENT

OPTIMISING FIELD SERVICE

FOR IMPROVED PROFITABILITY AND EFFICIENCY

©iStockphoto.com/photocanal25

Jared Haube, Field Service Management Summit

Against the backdrop of a rapidly progressive technology market, increasing consumer demands and economic fluctuations, companies are recognising the need to develop strategic measures in field service mobility. Optimising field service processes can help businesses cut costs, achieve operational efficiency, and improve productivity and customer satisfaction.

F

ield service operations are beginning to move beyond the use of outdated platforms that were previously difficult to use and expensive to customise. The spending on field service technology has also been steadily increasing. With the explosion of technology and increased consumer demand for efficient service delivery, companies have had to rethink the way they conduct field services. They’ve realised the need to underpin their efforts through strategic coordination and matching the right technicians to the right jobs.

The National Computing Centre (NCC) conducted an in-depth report that explored the main drivers for improving effectiveness of field staff operations and key people-related issues. 58% of organisations featured in the NCC Insight Report that have started implementing field service management software have seen a marked increase in customer satisfaction ratings. Companies have also experienced increased field technician productivity up to 20%.

The four main drivers for improving the effectiveness of field staff operations are: • Improving customer service levels.

• Improving worker productivity.

• Reducing the cost of field service operations .

• Improving reliability and timeliness of information coming back from the field.

Based on these key drivers, there are five areas of action which need to be optimised in field service management: Scheduling Customers won’t accept an eight-hour service turnaround. Not only is an exact estimated time of arrival (ETA) of the technician anticipated, there’s an expectation to remain informed should that ETA change. Optimising field service staff embodies a key operational metric and directly impacts on improving scheduling. Integrating that optimisation with an automated scheduling system considers staff skills, accreditations and available spare or required components.

Dispatch and course-plotting Enabling a flexible scheduling approach means using GPS and realtime traffic data. Field staff can be accurately directed depending on location and traffic conditions to mitigate potential delays and improve response and travel times.

On-site performance While supported by a constant connection to the office, field staff can record precise performance data with more efficiency.

By enabling reporting of accurate arrival and departure information and particulars of work that has been conducted, companies and organisations can maximise precision and accountability. Mobile accessibility also ensures efficient on-site problem resolution.

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 41

FIELD SERVICE MANAGEMENT

INCREASED CONSUMER DEMAND IS DRIVING THE NEED FOR IMPROVED FIELD SERVICE MOBILITY EFFICIENCY AND REDUCED OPERATIONAL COSTS. THE PRESSURE OF A RAPIDLY EXPANDING TECHNOLOGY MARKET HAS ALSO INFLUENCED THE METHODS THROUGH WHICH COMPANIES MANAGE FIELD SERVICE DATA AND COORDINATE TECHNICIANS.

Revenue generation Field technicians have the unique capability to extend on-site services through a combination of specialised upskilling and tools.

Such opportunities can see offers closed through digital signature capture or credit card transactions.

Travel and cost recording Some companies and organisations track re-billing expenditure.

By collating timely and reliable travel and spend data, they can condense billing cycles, reduce customer queries and days sales outstanding (DSO) for billing.

Driving automated field service management Internationally, the Aberdeen Group’s Field Service 2013 Workforce Management Guide surveyed 156 service professionals from December 2012 to January 2013. Only 58% of respondents met customer satisfaction goals in 2012, 57% met customer retention goals and 51% met service profitability goals.

These statistics reflect a significant gap and emphasise the need for organisations to improve customer service performance through strategic means. Success is pinned on improving organisational efficiency and productivity. It’s important for organisations to move beyond analysis of the total number of jobs attended per day and evaluate the use of field technicians and maximise mobility capabilities.

Building an FSM framework Important drivers behind an effective strategy include leveraging technology to achieve greater operational efficiency and effectiveness, strengthening organisational capability to provide a high-quality, cost-effective service and strong growth objective.

Identify the challenges • Complexity: Relating to stakeholders, finance and scheduling.

• Multidisciplinary: Aligning different business units and having staff trained on various aspects of a new system requires comprehensive planning.

• Increased scope: It’s no small task to develop such a strategy, and resources will need to be strategically allocated.

• Pace of change: Companies and organisations operate in a digital environment in which consumer demand has rapidly increased.

Systems planning has important requirements. These include: • Involve all stakeholders when conducting a gap analysis.

• Analyse strengths and weaknesses of the current system from the perspective of all stakeholders.

• Establish what dependencies there are between functional units.

• Have a big picture view for problem solving, communication and planning.

42

The critical success factors involve effective change management, identification and involvement of stakeholders, overcoming constraints, knowing your own assumptions and challenging them, and preparation for adapting the planned FSM strategy to changing requirements.

There are several common causes of failure. These include: the link between the project and the organisation’s strategic priorities; project measures of success; senior management ownership and leadership; engagement with stakeholders; skills and a proven approach to project management; selecting on price rather than value/benefit; breaking execution into manageable steps.

It is also important for businesses to address the right questions: What’s worked well with previous systems that have been implemented?; What didn’t work well and why?; What would you do differently next time?; What else needs to be considered to ensure a successful implementation?; What makes an FSM project implementation unique or particularly challenging?; How would you measure or define when an implementation is successful?; What would the role of HR be, if any, and how important is it for successful implementation?

Conclusion Increased consumer demand is driving the need for improved field service mobility efficiency and reduced operational costs.

The pressure of a rapidly expanding technology market has also influenced the methods through which companies manage field service data and coordinate technicians.

Integration and a cross-functional approach are more important than ever; organisations have to reduce operational costs and align FSM objectives with the overall business strategy.

The link between customer experience and effective field service management represents a shift from traditional service models to business sustainability and continuous improvement.

Technology plays a crucial role in facilitating and underpinning FSM operations.

Trends and developments in field service management will be discussed at the upcoming 6th Annual Field Service Management Summit to be held in Sydney from 19-21 March 2014. Each year the event brings together 200 senior-level professionals from across Australia and overseas to discuss the latest developments in field service management, workforce automation, asset management, dispatch management, general enterprise mobility and mobile computing to achieve higher workforce mobility and productivity, effective field force automation, advanced scheduling and automated workforce management with effective mobile workforce solutions.

IQPC Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V743

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

Company video-surveillance systems are an integral part of network infrastructures. They must be designed to respond to specific prerequisites in terms of performance and security in order to be used successfully in the management of various applications.

I

P video cameras are comparable to full-fledged PCs to which other devices can be connected. The video camera is a PC equipped with optics and a Linux operating system, which is nowadays used in mobile phones, tablets, PCs, consoles, mainframes, supercomputers and servers.

Most IP cameras these days feature Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology or, in other words, are supplied power through the same cable in use for data transmission, with considerable saving on the installation of dedicated power supply cables, especially in locations that are difficult to reach, and simplifying the installation of continuity units (UPS) capable of guaranteeing non-stop operation, 24/ 7. PoE technology also makes it easier to move video cameras to a new position and to add new ones to the video-surveillance system. Another advantage is given by the increased security of the system, in as much as its activation can, in fact, be operated from the server room; data security

44

is simultaneously ensured thanks to the use of Cat-5 or higher cables, according to standard IEEE 802.3af, which prevents any type of external influence.

What’s more, unlike analog systems, in which it is fairly easy to pick up the video or replace the signal of one camera with another, in IP video-surveillance systems, transmitted information is screened for authentication: the user or the device identify themselves through a username and a password, which are therefore checked before access is granted to the system. The products with Axis network video technology offer protection by means of a multilevel password. Three levels are available: administrator (access to all functions), operator (access to all functions except the pages dedicated to network configuration and login) and visitor (access limited to live video streams). This basic security system is suitable when a high level of protection is not necessary or when the video network is segmented compared to the main network.

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

©iStockphoto.com/Eugene Kazimiarovich

BENEFITS OF MIGRATING TO IP-BASED SYSTEMS

To eliminate the possibility of unauthorised access via a physical connection to the network, many IP surveillance cameras support the standard IEEE 802.1X, which provides authentication to devices connected to a LAN port. IEEE 802.1X establishes a point-to-point connection or prevents access from the LAN port in the case of an authentication error. IEEE 802.1X prevents so-called ‘port hi-jacking’, which consists in an unauthorised access by a PC to a network by means of network connector inside or outside a building, which proves especially useful for those network video cameras installed in public areas, where a network connector can be easily accessed, creating considerable risks in terms of security.

In modern company networks, IEEE 802.1X is becoming a basic requirement for any element connected to a network.

Usually, access is authenticated by a third party, like a remote authentication dial-in user service (Radius) server, which provides client authentication or the strong authentication changes and the procedure could be the following: • A network video camera sends out a request to access the network to a switch or access point.

• The switch or access point sends the request to the authentication server.

• If authentication is successful, the server indicates to the switch or access point to open the port in order to allow the network cam data to pass through the switch, for it to be sent into the network.

If a higher security level is required, it is preferable to resort to cryptography whose most common protocols are HTTPS, also known as SSL/TLS, the VPN and WEP, or the WPA for wireless networks.

HTTPS is identical to http, but with the difference that the data are cryptographed via secure socket layer (SSL) or transport layer security (TLS). An exclusive channel is created via VPN between two communicating devices: the data are ‘encapsulated’ in another package that contains only the addresses of the two communicating devices and therefore only the devices that have the correct key can access the VPN. Further security advantages offered by many IP network cameras are the filtering of IP addresses, which grants or denies access rights to set IP addresses and storage onboard. Network video cameras are configured by default to grant access to the products with network video technology, only to the IP address of the server that hosts the video management software. The option to use an SD/SDHC card eliminates the risks of sabotage and problems tied to the security of the connections. As a matter of fact, if a network fault occurs, the flows of footage filmed by the video camera are saved on the card. When the network connection is restored and the system resumes normal operation, the central VMS is capable of recovering and splicing local video recordings uninterruptedly.

For the user, this means having the certainty of benefiting from video recordings without interruptions.

To further enhance the security levels offered, during installation, once the IP address has been assigned, the first mandatory step with IP surveillance cameras products is to change the password. To configure the password, a standard http connection can be used or one with higher level, the https. The user asks the video camera to create an authentication certificate; once received, the user can insert it into the configuration to be able to safely change the password.

Axis Communications (S) Pte Ltd

Regulatory requirements for specialised cabling John Fleming, General Manager As many of you would be aware, the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has amended the regulatory requirements for cabling providers who install specialised cabling within customer premises. Registered cablers who intend carrying out specialised cabling after 1 July 2014 are reminded that the ACMA’s rule changes for specialised (such as structured, coaxial and optical fibre) cabling come into force on that date.

Cablers undertaking structured, coaxial, optical fibre or broadband cabling must by then have the training competencies relevant to this specialised cabling work. The new competencies only apply to cabling providers who undertake the relevant specialised cabling work within customer premises. 30 June 2014 is the final date on which cablers may undertake the full range of cabling operations with a basic Open cabling registration.

The amendments to the ACMA cabling arrangements have been made to ensure cabling providers have the necessary skills required to perform specialised cabling work for the current and emerging customer cabling environment.

How the changes affect Open registered cablers Registered cablers and all Open registered cablers doing these types of specialised/advanced cabling within customer premises must by 1 July 2014 have acquired the appropriate specialist competencies (also known as Endorsements).

Cablers who have already attained Endorsements for structured (previously Cat 5), coaxial and optical fibre cabling will not need to do further training in these specialisations as these endorsements are equivalent to the current competencies.

Restricted registered cablers Also by 1 July 2014, all Restricted registered cablers intending to work on broadband installations must have acquired the relevant Restricted Broadband specialist competency. With the transition period for the ACMA’s changes (2012-2014) fast running out, ASIAL is witnessing growing numbers of registered cablers upgrading their qualifications in readiness, indicating a sharp spike in demand for training places in these courses with registered training organisations (RTOs).

ASIAL urges cablers to act now to avoid missing out and risking disruption to their legal scope of work.

Cablers seeking assistance in sourcing a reputable RTO are encouraged to contact ASIAL Cabling on 02 8425 4331 or cabling@asial.com.au. Alternatively, cablers can contact ACMA at comply.label@acma.gov.au.

Registered cablers - changing address? Notify your registrar When your cabling registration is up for renewal, your registrar will send you a renewal notice. Notifying your registrar of any changes to your postal address will help ensure you receive the renewal notice, which will enable you to renew your registration on time. It is an offence under the Telecommunications Act 1997 to perform customer cabling work without a registration.

Significant penalties may apply for performing customer cabling work without a current registration. www.asial.com.au

Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V753

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html 45

CASE STUDY

ANZ Tower installs lighting controls for energy savings

D

eveloped by Grocon and designed by leading architects Francis-Jones Morehan Thorp, ANZ Tower is the newest addition to the Sydney skyline. The building officially opened in September 2013 and has already been awarded the 6 Star Green Star Office Design v2 rating by the Green Building Council of Australia.

ANZ Tower is home to NZ Bank, global law firm Herbert Smith Freehills and Boston Consulting Group. The building has a net lettable area of 59,000 m2 over 44 levels and features high-efficiency chillers, a trigeneration plant, a thermally shielded automated facade and rainwater harvesting. The design of the building’s iconic roof structure and highly glazed facade allows high levels of daylight into the floor-plate. mySmartCTI was awarded the four major components of the lighting control system comprising the Base Building and the tenancy fitouts of ANZ, Herbert Smith Freehills and Boston Consulting Group. One of the key sustainability initiatives in the building is the KNX lighting control system from systems integrator mySmartCTI. At over 1800 devices, this is said to be the largest KNX project in the Southern Hemisphere.

The two main requirements of the lighting design were the need for flexibility in configuring the open-plan office spaces, including any future reconfiguration, and the need to maximise the efficiency of the lighting solution to reduce energy consumption. The lighting control solution uses KNX control with the lighting ballasts on DALI networks. KNX/DALI Gateways from ABB ensures streamlined connectivity. An ABB KNX touch screen located close to the lift core on each level and Hager KNX wall switches strategically located throughout the floor allow the users to manually operate the lighting in specific areas when required.

A highlight of the project has been the interfacing of the tenants’ AV requirements into the KNX lighting control solution. To achieve this, over 30 AMX KNX interfaces have been used throughout the building’s meeting spaces, allowing the setting of lighting scenes and controlling the curtains and blinds within these rooms. An ethernet backbone runs through the building linking the NETx Automation Voyager-based lighting control server to the various KNX networks. Finally, the KNX lighting control solution is interfaced to the building management system via a KNX/BACnet interface. This allows scheduling of the lighting in areas throughout the building including offices, car parks and the external lighting and signage from the BMS. To ensure the building’s lighting system uses the minimum amount of energy, daylight harvesting and presence/absence detection strategies have been employed. KNX detectors throughout the building constantly monitor the ambient daylight levels across the floor and automatically adjust the lighting to suit.

Combined with the presence detectors, this ensures that the optimum light level is delivered while reducing energy wastage. Specific attention has been paid to after-hours lighting. Naturally the safety and security of any occupants working late is paramount and this is ensured while also using a minimum level of energy to do so. This is achieved through the highly flexible lighting control solution and numerous user interface points. mySmartCTI chose KNX for ANZ Tower over a proprietary solution due to the several benefits of the protocol. These include: KNX is a global standard; KNX products from all manufacturers are certified to be compatible; all KNX manufacturers must be ISO9001 compliant; the protocol is independent from any hardware or software technology; there are over 300 KNX manufacturers/members globally.

An additional reason for the use of a KNX solution on the ANZ Tower project was that the tenant clients both had specific requests regarding the finish and functionality of the sensors and user interfaces that were simply not achievable with proprietary systems. mySmartCTI Contact info and more items like this at wf.net.au/V826

46

A.B.N. 22 152 305 336 Head Office Cnr. Fox Valley Road & Kiogle Street, (Locked Bag 1289) Wahroonga NSW 2076 Australia Ph: +61 2 9487 2700 Fax: +61 2 9489 1265 Editor: Mansi Gandhi mgandhi@westwick-farrow.com.au Assistant Editor: Alice Richard Chief Editor: Janette Woodhouse Publisher: Geoff Hird Art Director/Production Manager: Julie Wright Art/Production: Tanya Scarselletti, Odette Boulton, Colleen Sam Circulation Manager: Sue Lavery circulation@westwick-farrow.com.au Copy Control: Mitchie Mullins copy@westwick-farrow.com.au Advertising Sales: National Sales Manager - Nicola Fender-Fox Ph: 0414 703 780 nfender-fox@westwick-farrow.com.au NSW, QLD, VIC - Mark Ryu Ph: 0404 803 356 mryu@westwick-farrow.com.au SA, WA - Lachlan Rainey Ph: 0402 157 167 lrainey@westwick-farrow.com.au New Zealand - Gemma Burr Ph: 0800 442 529 gburr@westwick-farrow.com.au USA - Huson International Media East Coast Ph: +1 212 268 3344 West Coast Ph: +1 408 879 6666 ralph.lockwood@husonmedia.com UK - Huson International Media Ph: +44 1932 56 4999 gerryb@husonmedia.com ASIA - Lachlan Rainey Ph: +61 (0) 402 157 167

Subscriptions:

For unregistered readers - price on application

If you have any queries regarding our privacy policy please email privacy@westwick-farrow.com.au

March 2013 Total CAB Audited Circulation (Aust + NZ) 7,307 (68% personally requested) ECD Solutions: ISSN 2201-2702 Printed and bound by Webstar +61 2 9748 0020

All material published in this magazine is published in good faith and every care is taken to accurately relay information provided to us. Readers are advised by the publishers to ensure that all necessary safety devices and precautions are installed and safe working procedures adopted before the use of any equipment found or purchased through the information we provide. Further, all performance criteria was provided by the representative company concerned and any dispute should be referred to them. Information indicating that products are made in Australia or New Zealand is supplied by the source company. Westwick-Farrow Pty Ltd does not quantify the amount of local content or the accuracy of the statement made by the source.

This issue is sponsored by — TE Connectivity — www.te.com/en/industries/enterprise-networks/australia.html

State of the art Advanced Power Quality Analyser & Metering Functionality EM720

PM175

eZPAC

PM180

APPLICATIONS • Voltage Sags/Dips • Voltage Spikes/Swells • Waveform Capture • Interruptions • Bay Controller • Fault Recording • Harmonic Spectrum • Power Factor

• Motor Starting • Metering • Transients • Flicker • Breaker Tripping (SOE’s) Sequence of Events (Status Inputs) • Enhancement of Protection Relaying (Electro-Mechanical)

STANDARDS • Power Quality Performance Compliance IEC61000-4-30 Class A • Harmonic IEC61000-4-7 • Flicker IEC61000-4-15 • Voltage Compliance EN50160

• Energy Measurements IEC6205222 Class 0.2S • IEC61850 • Goose Messaging • Modbus/DNP3

www.satec-global.com.au

ConneCting AustrAliA & new ZeAlAnd for over 30 yeArs

The leading brands in the Australia & New Zealand cabling market,

AMP Netconnect and KRONE, together under one company - TE Connectivity.

TE Connectivity is the sole manufacturer in Australia & New Zealand providing ITC solutions from Data Centre to Enterprise buildings.

KRONE has been in Australia & New Zealand for

Data Centre Infrastructure Management systems

made RJ-45 outlets for australian faceplates.

more than 30 years designing & manufacturing products such as the ever-lasting disconnect module for all telephone systems, to the locally-

With local technical expertise and manufacturing

Choice of media and application speed

we are able to provide custom solutions and

Cabling for Building Automation Systems

tailored products for the Australian and New

Designed for low operating cost Local design and project support 25 year system warranty

Zealand market.

A country wide network of distributors and a large central warehouse near Sydney, means we can support your projects as needed.

FROM TE CONNECTIVITY

Contact us call 1800 TE INFO (1800 83 4636) | email infoanz@te.com www.te.com/enterprise-au | www.te.com/enterprise-nz