Bisbee’s Buzz

 additional medical support to nyc Sept. 11 victims = $7.4 BILLION

There’s something corporate IT and telecommunications management should know. Most of the cable they’re now installing in the workplace across the U.S. contains halogens – chemical that give off toxic fumes when they burn.

INCAPACITATION AND PERMANENT LUNG DAMAGE

In a fire, halogen cable can release acid gases that sear the eyes, nose, mouth, and throat. The fumes can disorient victims, preventing them from escaping the blaze. They can cause severe respiratory damage. And they can kill.

additional medical support to nyc Sept. 11 victims = $7.4 BILLION

The James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2009, sponsored by  Rep. Carolyn Maloney (D-N.Y.), would provide medical monitoring to those exposed to toxins at ground zero, bolster treatment at specialized centers for those afflicted by toxins on Sept. 11 and reopen a compensation fund to provide for the economic loss of victims.

And it’s all paid for by closing a tax loophole on foreign companies with U.S. subsidiaries, Democrats said.

The bill, if passed, would reopen the Victims Compensation Fund until 2031 — instead of litigation, victims could try to get money from the fund. Republicans are calling the extension “well beyond what is needed to take care of latent claims,” according to a policy statement from the GOP.

“Republicans continue to believe that those who responded to the [World Trade Center] attack should get the treatment and liability protection they need because they dutifully answered a call for help,” the policy statement reads.

Recognizing this potentially deadly problem, a number of international governments have already standardized on zero-halogen cabling. However the U.S. National Electric Code (NEC), which serves as the basis for local standards in most states, effectively forces IT managers to use halogen-insulated Category 5 & 6 UTP in the plenum spaces above ceilings and below floors in office buildings. And while some organization that are exempt from local building code – like the military and mass transit authorities – have banned halogen from their networks, most network managers have little choice but to obey the law.

Halogen cabling can emit toxic fumes in a fire. Many international governments have moved to less lethal alternatives.

Low Smoke Zero Halogen and RoHS compliant - Why hasn't the U.S. done the same?

And that, argue halogen-free advocates, could be fatal. Building plenums are typically used to circulate air throughout the workplace. If there’s a fire, they warn, heating and air conditioning ducts could become conduits for hydrogen chloride, hydrogen fluoride, and the other gasses that cause far more fatalities than flames or visible smoke. The Air Conditioning Committee (NFPA 90A) of the National Fire Protection Association, which developed the section of the code dealing with Plenum-approved cabling without conduit, has not required any toxicity testing on these cables. If they had tested the Teflon FEP they would have discover a nightmare of toxic gasses are released under heat,

TOXIC TEFLON FEP heat decomposition and off-gasses

http://tuberose.com/Teflon.html

DuPont scientists list the hallmark human symptoms of polymer fume fever as tightness of chest, malaise, shortness of breath, headache, cough, chills, temperatures between 100 and 104°F, and sore throat, based on a survey of complaints registered by workers who were struck by the illness. Based on this suite of symptoms, cases of polymer fume fever from home exposures could easily be mistaken for the common flu. The toxic particles and gases identified as Teflon offgas products, and the temperature at which they are first identified in the studies reviewed, are shown below, with toxicity information that is drawn primarily from high dose animal studies, the only source of information available for most of the chemicals:

464°F - Ultrafine particulate matter: Teflon produces very small (ultrafine) particles which are very toxic, causing extreme lung damage to rats within 10 minutes of exposure. Longer exposures cause death. At higher temperatures, Teflon also produces toxic gases. Some scientists have found that the particles and gases together are responsible for Teflon's toxicity, perhaps because the gases adsorb to the particles, which because of their small size can lodge deep in the lower respiratory tract.

680°F - Tetrafluoroethylene (TFE): The National Toxicology Program considers tetrafluoroethylene (TFE) to be a "reasonably anticipated" human carcinogen because it is known to cause cancer in laboratory animals, but has not been adequately studied in people. In rats, inhaled TFE causes tumors of the kidney tubules, liver, blood vessels in the liver and one form of leukemia (mononuclear). Mice that breathe TFE develop tumors of the liver and tumors that develop in blood vessels in the liver or white blood cells.

680°F - Hexafluoropropene (HFP): In people, air exposure to fluorocarbons like HFP can lead to eye, nose and throat irritation; heart palpitations, irregular heart rate, headaches, light-headedness, fluid accumulation in the lung (edema) and possibly death. Long-term exposure in workers is associated with decreased motor speed, memory and learning. In mice and rats, inhalation of hexafluoropropene (HFP) causes kidney lesions, decreased numbers of a type of immune cell (lymphocyte) and increased urination. HFP also causes increased numbers of chromosomal abnormalities in hamster ovaries. HFP can also be added to pesticides as an "inert" ingredient, which does not mean that it is non-toxic, but only that is not the pesticide active ingredient. Another example of a pesticide inert ingredient is butyl benzyl phthalate, a chemical well known to cause serious birth defects of the male reproductive system in laboratory animals.

680°F - Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA): Very few studies have looked at the toxicity of trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), but those that have found decreased growth of fetal rat bone-forming cells (osteoblast) and cartilage cells (chondrocytes), and neural tube defects in rat embryos at high concentrations. Other studies show that HCFC-123, a hydrofluorocarbon that breaks down into TFA, causes enlarged liver and decreased levels of glucose, triglyceride and cholesterol in adult animals. But, it is unclear whether these effects are due to HCFC-123 or a metabolite. A monkey study found the TFA concentration in the fetus was two to six times higher than in the mother's blood following dosing with HCFC-123. The long-term environmental impacts of TFA are unknown, but it is extremely persistent and toxic to plants. TFA is also a breakdown product of many hydrochlorofluorocarbon (HCFCs) and hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) used as replacement for chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs), which are potent ozone depleters used in refrigeration systems, aerosols and other products. Recently, scientists have suggested that high levels of TFA in the environment could be partly due to heated Teflon and other fluoropolymers because measured environmental levels are higher than predicted, based on breakdown of HCFCs and HFCs alone.

680°F - Difluoroacetic acid (DFA): Very little is known about the toxicity of difluoroacetic acid (DFA), although kidney toxicity has been reported in rats.

680°F - Monofluoroacetic acid (MFA, fluoroacetic acid or compound 1080): Monofluoroacetic acid is extremely toxic, doses as low as 0.7 to 2.1 mg/kg can kill people. Initially, people report nausea, vomiting, numbness, tingling, anxiety, muscle twitching, low blood pressure and blurred vision. If exposure is high enough, people can have irregular heart rate (ventricular fibrillation), heart attacks, and severe convulsions leading to respiratory failure. MFA quickly breaks down into a chemical called fluoroacetate. Sodium fluoroacetate was previously used as a powerful rodent killer (rodenticide). In the body, it breaks down into sodium and fluoroacetate, which is responsible for the toxicity. Sodium fluoroacetate kills rodents, and other animals, by inhibiting the tricarboxylic acid cycle which transforms energy found in food to energy the body uses. Sodium fluoroacetate also causes heart and respiratory failure, central nervous system depression and damage to the testes, including decreased sperm production.

878°F - Silicon tetrafluoride (SiF4): Silicon tetrafluoride is a highly toxic, corrosive gas. In the lungs, moisture causes the silicon particles to separate, releasing toxic hydrofluoric acid and also coating the lung with silicon particles. Inhaling hydrofluoric acid can cause eye and throat irritation, cough, difficult breathing, bluish skin color caused by lack of oxygen, lung damage and fluid accumulation in the lung (edema). Long term exposure can cause weight loss, decreased numbers of red and white blood cells (anemia and leukopenia), discoloration of the teeth and abnormal thickening of the bone (osteosclerosis).

887°F - Perfluoroisobutene (PFIB): Perfluoroisobutene (PFIB) is extremely toxic and inhalation can lead to fluid build up in the lung (edema), a condition that can lead to death. PFIB is listed in the Chemical Weapons Convention as a Schedule 2 compound. PFIB is about ten times more toxic than phosgene, a highly toxic corrosive gas also listed as a chemical weapon. In water, PFIB breaks down into hydrogen fluoride which is also very toxic (see below). Short-term symptoms of PFIB exposure in people include bad taste in mouth, nausea and weakness. Lung edema occurs about one to four hours after exposure, which is life-threatening in some cases, but in most people clears up in about 3 days.

932°F - Carbonyl fluoride (COF₂): Breakdown of Teflon (PTFE) in air is the major source of carbonyl fluoride exposure. Carbonyl fluoride is the fluorine version of phosgene, a chlorinated chemical warfare agent. Carbonyl fluoride fumes can irritate eyes, ears and nose. More serious symptoms of exposure include chest pains, breathing difficulty, fluid accumulation in the lungs, weakness, liver damage and increased glucose levels. Because carbonyl fluoride breaks down into hydrogen fluoride and carbon dioxide, it causes many of the same toxic effects as hydrogen fluoride (see below).

932°F - Hydrogen fluoride (HF): Hydrogen fluoride (HF) is a toxic corrosive gas, and can cause death to any tissue it comes into contact with, including the lungs. The toxicity of HF is due to the fluoride ion and not the hydrogen ion. Breathing HF can cause severe lung damage, such as fluid buildup in the lungs (edema) and inflammation of lung passages (pneumonia). The fluoride ion (charged particle) is extremely toxic. It is a small ion and weak acid that diffuses quickly and can pass through tissues with relative ease. Fluoride ions inhibit cell respiration, decreasing production of ATP, the major form of chemical energy used by the body. Fluoride attacts cell membranes causing cells to die. The fluoride ion is negatively charged and naturally likes to react with positively charged ions in the body like calcium and magnesium. When fluoride and calcium bind, creating a "precipitate," a life-threatening condition of decreased calcium (hypocalcemia) can occur. Left untreated, decreases in calcium (and magnesium) can cause abnormal heart rhythm leading to heart attack, muscle spasms and death. Calcium administration is the main treatment for HF poisoning.

1112°F - Trifluoroacetic acid fluoride (CF₃COF): Trifluoroacetic acid fluoride is toxic, mostly because it breaks down into hydrogen fluoride, which is very toxic, and trifluoroacetic acid. The few studies that have looked at the toxicity of TFA found decreased growth of fetal rat bone-forming cells (osteoblast) and cartilage cells (chondrocytes), and neural tube defects in rat embryos at high concentrations. Other studies show that HCFC-123, a hydrofluorocarbon that breaks down into TFA, causes enlarged liver and decreased levels of glucose, triglyceride and cholesterol in adult animals, but it is unclear whether these effects are due to HCFC-123 or a metabolite. A monkey study found TFA in the fetus was two to six times higher than in the mother's blood following dosing with HCFC-123, a hydrofluorocarbon that breaks down into TFA. Fluoride ion (charged particle) is extremely toxic. It is a small ion and weak acid that diffuses quickly and can pass through tissues with relative ease.

Fluoride ions inhibit cell respiration, decreasing production of ATP, the major form of chemical energy used by the body. Fluoride attracts cell membranes causing cells to die. The fluoride ion is negatively charged and naturally likes to react with positively charged ions in the body like calcium and magnesium. When fluoride and calcium bind, creating a "precipitate," a life-threatening condition of decreased calcium (hypocalcemia) can occur. Left untreated, decreases in calcium (and magnesium) can cause abnormal heart rhythm leading to heart attack, muscle spasms and death. Calcium administration is the main treatment for HF toxicity.

1112°F - Octafluorocyclobutane (OFCB): Octaflurocyclobutane is a fluorine-containing gas that is used in the semiconductor industry, sold as Zyron 8020 by DuPont. According to DuPont, inhaling high levels of octafluorocyclobutane can cause heart beat irregularities, unconsciousness and death. People with pre-existing heart conditions may be extra vulnerable. Only a few toxicity studies in animals are available for octafluorocyclobutane. In one study, rats exposed to a one-time-only inhaled exposure of octafluorocyclobutane lost weight and had abnormal breathing. Dogs that inhaled high concentrations (10-25% air), and were dosed with the stimulant epinephrine, had heart problems. According to DuPont, tests for genetic damage in insects are "inconclusive."

1112°F - Perfluorobutane (PFB, Trade Name CEA-410): As a global warming chemical, perfluorobutane has a long half-life in the upper atmosphere and has over 8,000 times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide. Perfluorobutane is not as acutely toxic as other PTFE off-gases, but has not been tested for long-term effects.

1202°F - Carbon tetrafluoride (CF₄, perfluoromethane): In addition to being a long-lived fluorinated Teflon "off-gas," perfloromethane is used in the semiconductor industry, is a refrigerant and propellant and a byproduct of aluminum production. The U.S. government is encouraging these industries to decrease emissions of perfluoromethane because it is a potent greenhouse gas, with a global warming potential almost 6000 times higher than carbon dioxide, and can last in the environment for 50,000 years. In the past, perfluoromethane has been used in pesticides as an "inert" ingredient; a label that has nothing to do with toxicity but only means the ingredient is not the main active pesticide. Inhaling fluorinated hydrocarbons like carbon tetrafluoride can cause eye, ear and nose irritation; heart palpitations; irregular heart rate; headaches; confusion; lung irritation, tremors and occasionally coma.

LIFE AND BREATH

For some critics, the difference between international and U.S. standards reveals start contrasts. “U.S. cabling codes are designed to save property. In Europe, we are more interested in saving lives, “ says Dario Erba, Manager for structured cabling at IBM Europe (Vimercate, Italy), which installs only acid-free cables.

Erba’s assessment my strike many as unduly harsh, but it raises an important concern: Given halogens’ lethal potential, why are they used in cabling at all?

There’s actually a method to this apparent madness. Halogens are an extremely effective fire retardant. Adding them to cable insulation increase its kindling point.

The big lie

“If the cable doesn’t catch fire, it won’t give off toxic fumes,” has been the response from DuPont (Wilmington, DE). The chemical company is the leading manufacturer of FEP (fluorinated ethylene propylene), the most toxic halogen and the one used in the majority of cabling. FEP heat dissipation produce deadly gas without catching fire.

NO EASY ANSWERS

It’s a deadly double blind: Halogen insulation helps prevent cables from catching fire, but if the cable jackets do ignite the resultant fumes can drive up the death toll. And this dilemma has been at the heart of a decade-long debate about the continued use of halogen. “Fluorinated polymers are hundreds of times more toxic than zero-halogen cabling.” Comments Marcelo Hirschler, a consultant with BGH International Inc (Mill Valley, CA) a firm that specializes in fire-safety issues. “They’re also far less flammable.”

To date, halogen’s defenders, which include DuPont and B.F. Goodrich CO (Akron, OH), have carried the day. But the opposition, whose ranks include manufacturers of zero-halogen cable, is running up the heat in hopes of convincing the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA, Quincy, MA) to change the current code. The latest NEC will go into effect in January 2011.

“There was a lot of argument about this, but the people in favor of zero-halogen couldn’t prove their case,” says Dave McCormack, assistant to the president of the International Association of Firefighters (St. Louis). McCormick believes the code should be changed to restrict the use of halogen cabling, which some tests show to be more than five times as toxic as its acid-free equivalent.

CATASTROPHIC CORROSION

This time around, however, the anti-halogen forces are taking a different track. They now argue that these chemicals should be outlawed because of the catastrophic effect acid fumes have on computer circuitry - causing millions of dollars worth of damage even in small fires. “Corrosivity is the Achilles’ heel of halogen cables,” comments Michael Keogh, corporate fellow at Union Carbide Corp. (Danbury, CT). “It ‘s a matter of machine toxicity, now human toxicity,” Union Carbide makes the raw materials used in both halogen and halogen free cable.

And where does all this leave IT managers interested in eliminated halogen from their networks? Unfortunately, they don’t have many options. The law is clear: Meet the code or risk the consequences, which range from being fines by building inspectors or fire marshals to insurance companies that refuse to pay up in the event of disaster (se “The Insurance Angle”).

STANDARDS SCHISM

International cabling standards were developed in response to events in the Falklands War. Research showed that most shipboard fatalities during the conflict were the results of the smoke from fires started by missiles and bombs rather than by the weapons themselves. “Acid gasses also prevented personnel from fighting the fires,” says Karen Long, a physicist at the Naval Sea Systems Command (Washington, DC). Long is responsible for developing fiber cabling standards for the U.S. Navy, which has decided to go halogen-free.

Many countries - including Australia, France, Italy, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, and the U.K. – have also moved to halogen-free cabling. And even in countries where the choice of cable is still left to the installer, zero-halogen is becoming the technology of choice, according to IBM’s Erba. “Halogen-free cables account for 40 percent of the total communications cable in Europe, “ he says. He believes that the remaining 60 percent is halogen sheathed PVC (polyvinyl chloride).

The easiest way to see the difference between international and U.S. cabling codes is to compare what they cover. International standards address three issues:

• fire resistance (how fast cable burns)
• smoke density (how much visible smoke is produced)
• toxicity (how harmful the smoke is to human beings)

U.S. codes, in contrast, only address two of those criteria: fire resistance and smoke density. The National Electric Code is still silent when is comes to toxicity. It should be noted, however, that the U.S. standards for fire resistance are more comprehensive and more stringent than their international counterparts. Three levels are defined. The first and least demanding applies to general-purpose cabling (such as that used to connect a phone to a wall jack). The second applies to cables installed in building risers. The third and toughest code is reserved for cabling installed in plenum spaces.

CHEMICAL CONDITIONING

The only way to meet the more demanding U.S. standards is to add one of several halogens to the polymer plastic used in cable insulation. PVC cable contains chlorine; FEP (also known as Teflon ® FEP) is made with fluorine.

FEP is highly fire resistant. Those two characteristics have made FEP the key component in plenum-rated Category 5 & 6 UTP (unshielded twisted pair) in the USA.

It’s a different story overseas. In order to meet rigorous international toxicity specs cable manufacturers avoid halogens altogether, instead adding metal hydrates to their polyethylene and polypropylene cable insulations. When heated, these chemicals release steam.

But halogen-free cables made with metal hydrates are not a fire-resistant as their U.S. counterparts. And once the metal hydrate is exhausted, the insulation burns freely.

Zero-halogen cable meets the two less stringent U.S. fire-resistance standards. It’s acceptable for general purpose use and for building risers. But in order to obtain a plenum rating manufacturers would have to add so much metal hydrate to their insulation that the cable would no longer meet Cat 5 or Cat 6 UTP electrical requirements. “The flame retardant additives, “ explains Keogh, “do not have good electrical properties.”

BURNING ISSUES

When the PVC cables used in building risers burn they emit both hydrogen chloride (an acid gas) and dioxin, which Greenpeace, the environmental advocacy group, calls “the most toxic synthetic chemical known to science” (see table I). Long-term exposure to dioxin has been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer, reproductive disorders, birth defects, impaired neurological development, diabetes, and immune system suppression.

When FEP cable burns it releases hydrogen fluoride, an odorless invisible gas that is considerably more toxic than hydrogen chloride. Tests conducted at University of Pittsburgh in the 1980’s also indicate the presence of another, far more deadly gas, in FEP fumes – known in the cabling industry as “the supertoxin.” Some scientist theorize the gas is a fluoro-phosgene- the fluorine equivalent to phosgene gas used in World War I. The supertoxin has been properly identified. “We know there’s hydrogen fluoride, but that’s not the real problem,” says BGH’s Hirschler. “There’s something else in the gases, and nobody knows what it really is except that it’s highly, highly toxic.”

There is approximately10 lbs of FEP in each 1000’ of plenum cable.

49% of FEP heat decomposition is released as HF – hydrogen fluoride. Upon contact with moisture (even humidity) HF converts to Hydrofluoric acid. This acid evens “eats” glass.

Maybe, it is time to consider the TOXICITY issue, We cannot afford to delay.

Remember: Safety is too important to ignore.

But that’s just my opinion,

Frank Bisbee - Editor
HOTS - Heard On The Street
www.wireville.com
4949 Sunbeam Rd, Suite 16
Jacksonville, FL 32257
(904) 645-9077 office
(904) 237-0365 cell
(904) 645-9058 fax
frank@wireville.com

Megladon Announces Bit Error Rate Certified 10GIG HLC® Fiber Assemblies

Austin, Texas, October 8, 2010 – Megladon Manufacturing Group announced today the release of Bit Error Rate Tested and certified 10GIG HLC fiber patch cables. This product line ships with an eye diagram and Bit Error Rate test data which enables the installer to deploy with confidence.

As the migration to 10GIG continues in fiber optic networks, many installers and maintenance personnel are challenged when they realize a percentage of the Laser Optimized fiber optic patch cables ordered either have a high bit error rate when mated or develop intermittent issues in a short period of time. What is not known is those products sold as “10GIG patch cables” are not bit error rate tested using an actual 10GIG signal. Instead, the standard insertion loss performance is considered the pass/fail criteria. This does not guarantee an acceptable bit error rate.

Megladon’s HLC SCRATCHGUARD® connection technology has been known for a decade for its durability and repeatable performance. It is a one of a kind product that enables business critical applications to operate with minimal connectivity issues. The repeatability of the Hardened Lens and its properties also allows Megladon to bit error rate test and certify the terminated product with an extremely high first pass yield.

“The market has been taught that any multimode fiber patch cable with an aqua jacket will perform in a 10GIG system. The truth is the glass is designed for such a system but the finished patch cable has not been tested with a bit error rate tester. We have not found one manufacturer that will provide bit error rate data with the product. That changed today” said John Culbert, President of Megladon.

Megladon® Manufacturing Group Ltd., a subsidiary of TyRex Group Ltd.®, is recognized as a leader in the fiber optic marketplace. Founded in 1997, Megladon made it their mission to provide customers with fiber optic products that far exceed industry standards minimizing installation time and maintenance cost. As technology innovators, Megladon created the HLC® (Hardened Lens Contact) connection, which has changed the market and taken it to the next level. For additional information on Megladon and their patented processes please visit the company’s website at www.megladonmfg.com.

For additional information regarding Megladon’s variety of fiber optic products please contact John Culbert at 512.615.4687 or by email at scratchguard@megladonmfg.com.

Wired for Improvement

The markets for low-voltage electronic, datacom, and fiber-optic cabling have begun to rebound.

by Dan Carazo

Judging by their 2008 and 2009 financial reports, most manufacturers of wire, cable, and fiber-optic products have suffered badly during this recession. However, based on the more recent performance by some of these companies, the worst may be over. According to Nexans’s 2009 Annual Report, the company experienced a 28% contraction in overall demand. Now contrast that with a statement from Nexans’s 2010 first-half-year results released July 28: “After a particularly difficult first quarter marked by an organic decrease in sales of 11.1%, the second quarter saw a sharp 12% upturn in sales across all businesses.” Another major cable producer—Belden—also reported strong second-quarter 2010 results with Q2 revenue totaling $426.1 million, up 24% compared to Q2 2009. Belden’s president and CEO, John Stroup, explained the company’s good news in glowing terms.

“The strong results we delivered this quarter and over the first six months of 2010 demonstrate that our strategic initiatives are working,” said Stroup. “The improvement in our business was broad based with all product groups and regions contributing—a reflection of the enhanced quality and diversity of our portfolio.”

Such continued improvement in the markets for low-voltage and fiber-optic cable will certainly be welcomed relief for this hard-hit group. Gene Stang, vice president, product management and market development, for Coleman Cable, confirmed that sales volumes for Cat 5e and coaxial cable product lines have declined 50% from the peak of the U.S. residential and commercial building market. Stang believes the market will remain flat in 2010, but is optimistic that 10% growth is attainable “if the housing market turns around in the next few years.”

According to Pete Comber, executive vice president of marketing for Omni Cable, both the low-voltage copper and fiber-optic cable categories are already showing renewed strength. “This can be attributed to the fact that low-voltage cables are no longer daisy chained in alarm and signal applications, but are instead required as separate circuits,” he explained. “However, fiber’s growth is primarily due to the continued increase in bandwidth in every environment. Over the next several years, we expect steady single-digit growth.”

Electronic cable, especially bundled access control products, have benefited as companies continue to invest in security. “One dominating trend is the access control cables for secure doorways and higher-level secured access,” said Jay Lahman, vice president and general manager for Carol, Gepco, and Isotec brands for General Cable. “This will continue to evolve as IP is added to these areas. We expect electronics to be flat in 2010 with growth projected in the next five years.”

“The growth of addressable fire and signal systems has increased the use of colored cable construction as well as requests for striping of traditional cables,” added Comber.

In the datacom cable segment, Bethany Sarchet, market development manager, datacom, for General Cable, has seen a shift to higher-end copper category cables with customers moving away from traditional Cat 5e cables to Cat 6 and 6a. “Thanks to the TIA/EIA Cat 6a standard adopted in 2008, Cat 6 and Cat 6a (10GB) cabling has been gaining traction as people are future-proofing their networks to support increasing bandwidth demands. We expect the datacom market to continue to decline in 2010, but with government-funded projects and stimulus money, we see the datacom project pipeline building in 2011 with an expected 4% growth and another 8% by 2012,” said Sarchet.

The use of fiber-optic cables has grown in volume, with domestic demand reaching $1.9 billion in 2008. The data center market, where the split of installed cable has increased in favor of fiber in recent years, has proven to be a key driver.

According to Greg Carnes, product manager, fiber-optic cable, for General Cable, OM3 fiber-optic cable has shown wide market adoption, making up almost half of all the multimode fiber sold in 2010. “While most forecasts have predicted 2010 to be between 5% and 10% down, with 1% to 2% CAGR over the next five years, the market has actually shown growth in 2010 and is now back to 2008 levels, roughly 18% above 2009,” explained Carnes.

It’s important for distributors to realize that the installation and termination of fiber-optic products are no longer reserved for a “specialized” group. “Customers of electrical distributors have done an excellent job expanding the capabilities of their workforce to install and terminate fiber-optic cables,” Combers pointed out. “This trend allows electrical distributors to participate in the diverse supply chain side of fiber-optic cables.”

Carazo provides B2B marketing services for electrical industry organizations. He can be reached at dcaraz@optonline.net.

REPRINTED with permission from tED Magazine www.tedmag.com

Electrical Contractor Magazine Names 2010 NECA Showstoppers

          BOSTON, October 7, 2010 — Electrical Contractor magazine at http://www.ecmag.com awarded 15 products during the 2010 NECA Convention and Trade Show, October 2-5 at the Boston Convention and Exhibition Center. Judged by a panel of electrical contractors, the magazine's annual Showstoppers recognize the most innovative products and systems featured in this year's exhibition among many new products submitted.
           "We're thrilled to honor these innovations selected by electrical contractors around the country," said Electrical Contractor Publisher John Maisel. "They represent the best in emerging technologies for our industry and add excitement throughout the show."
           Displayed at the front of the show hall with blue ribbons, this year's Showstoppers offered diverse products, equipment and systems from a range of manufacturers and systems developers.
           Siemens Industry, Inc., won for the first 600V DC enclosed solar/photovoltaic disconnect switch UL listed for use with three, separate 600V DC circuits.
           "We are pleased and excited that those viewing our display recognized that our new Solar Switches represent a significant design innovation to service the emerging solar energy market," said Dennis Krizan, product manager, safety switches, Siemens Industry, Inc.
           GE Energy won for its electrical vehicle charging station, showing both residential and commercial chargers. "The key to ours is the design," said Chris Bowler, general manager of marketing, who demonstrated the charger's retractable cord for ease of use.
           "Nobody has ever addressed the transmission/distribution contractors," said Todd McCormick, president, McCormick Systems, Inc., whose company won with transmission and distribution estimating software.
           Schneider Electric also won for its electric vehicle charging station due to become available in two to three months. Its features include a delay function for charging at specific times of the day for better energy management.
           "The biggest thing is that the bending and cutting are brought into the product along with a full range of factory fittings that results in a safe, low-cost installation," said Gregory Cambrun, RCCD, national sales manager, Wiremaid Products Vision, for its Pro-10 series cable tray.
           The 2010 Showstoppers winners include:

·                  Accubid: Enterprise Estimating

·                  L.H. Dottie: Ceiling Solutions Pole

·                  ElectricSmarts/NetPricer: Smart e-CAT

·                  Extech: EX540 Wireless Datalogging Multimeter

·                  GE Energy: WattStation

·                  Klipsch: Klipsch Light Speaker

·                  McCormick Systems, Inc.: Transmission and Distribution Estimating System

·                  Milwaukee: Test Meters

·                  Russound: Collage Powerline and Media System

·                  Schneider Electric: Electric Vehicle Charging Station

·                  Siemens Industry, Inc.:Solar Safety Switch for Three 600V DC

·                  Thomas & Betts: Sta-Kon® Comfort Crimp® Compression Tool

·                  Vision InfoSoft Corporation: Electrical Bid Manager Enterprise

·                  Werner: Lock-in Accessory System

·                  Wiremaid USA: Wiremaid Cable Mgr PRO-10, The One-Tool System

###

Published by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), Bethesda, Md., Electrical Contractor magazine delivers 85,300+ electrical contractors and more than 68,000 electrical contracting locations, more than any other industry publication. Telephone: (301) 657-3110. Web site: http://www.ecmag.com.

The NEXT NECA Convention & Show

CONTRACTORS CONNECTING THE WORLD WITH POWER + LIGHTING + INTEGRATED SYSTEMS

October 22-25, 2011

San Diego Convention Center

National Electrical Contractors Association

NECA 2010 Boston Hits a Home Run!

60+% of the Boston NECA Exhibitors have already renewed their commitment to our industry by signing up for NECA 2011 San Diego.

Why? Here are just a few on the NECA 2010 Boston On-site Survey Results:
-99% of Attendees were either “Very Satisfied” or “Satisfied” with NECA 2010 Boston

-69% of Attendees either “Make the Final Purchasing Decision” or are “Part of the Purchasing Decision” for their firm

-53% of Attendees are planning the purchase of new equipment or services (as seen on the show floor) within the next 12 months

-another 26% of Attendees are unsure, but could possibly purchase new equipment or services (as seen on the show floor) within the next 12 months

-69% of Exhibitors ranked their experience at NECA 2010 Boston as either “Very Satisfied” or “Satisfied”

The thousands of Electrical Contractors who came to Boston were very pleased with the entire event. Here are just a few of their comments:

“As you know, I have been going to NECA National Conventions for a few decades and I want you to understand that this was the best so far.” 
Don Campbell, NorCal NECA

"The Trade Show was amazing!  I always heard the NECA Trade Show was great, but this was unbelievable."

Steve Willinghurst, JATC Training Director

“That opening reception was the best I've ever been to and a great start to the Convention.  Being a huge Beatles fan I was in heaven at the closing reception and couldn't help but dance the entire evening.   You and your staff did a great job.  My members that attended enjoyed everything about the Convention and will be talking it up, which will hopefully encourage those that did not attend to consider San Diego next year.”

Steven B. Chesley, Executive Manager, Quad Cities Chapter, NECA

“All I can say is CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!  Once again my members and I had such a great time at Convention - and you and your staff are truly remarkable.  From the hotels, to the shuttle service, to the courses and the trade show- this Convention will go down in the record books for being one of my favorites.” 

Brian Sullivan, Executive Director of the Nebraska Chapter of NECA

Sign up today for NECA 2011 San Diego while prime locations are still available. Full details are available on our website

Download the 2011 Exhibitor Prospectus

View the 2011 Floor Plan

Download the 2011 Space Contract

Don't Miss Out!

Benefit by participating in the electrical construction industry’s largest event. Feel free to contact me with any questions at 770-632-0044 or julduda@necanet.org

THE SHOW FOR THOSE WHO POWER THE WORLD!

NECA 2011 San Diego
October 22-25, 2011

San Diego Convention Center

National Electrical Contractors Association

NECA is the voice of the $130 billion electrical construction industry that brings power, light, and communication technology to buildings and communities across the U.S. NECA’s national office and 119 local chapters advance the industry through advocacy, education, research and standards development. For more information, visit www.necanet.org.

Media Buzz on the BOMA Standard

The industry is talking about BOMA’s new Office Standard and the media is listening. MRSA Architects' Michael Semenzin gave Bisnow Chicago reporter Maureen Wilkey the lowdown on the new BOMA Office Standard.

"While the standard shouldn’t change the amount of square footage in your building significantly, they give owners and tenants a verifiable and defendable standard for classifying different spaces, including building service areas, mezzanines and floor amenity areas. One of the biggest changes is the addition of Method B, a standard that allows building owners to cap their load factor."-Excerpt from National Real Estate Bisnow- October 1, 2010 

Visit the BOMA Store for more information about Office Buildings: Standard Methods of Measurement (ANSI/BOMA Z65.1 2010).

Read more

OSP| 10-13-10

Please visit DRAKA at Booth #213 in San Antonio, TX!

Read more

CableTec Expo (SCTE)| 10-20-10

Please visit DRAKA at Booth #1410 in New Orleans, LA!

Read more

DRAKA is a world leader in fiber optic cables.

DRAKA will be there for you. DRAKA is ready to explain deployment solutions through exhibits and hands-on demonstrations DRAKA  customers will get first-hand experience with their  flexible deployment solution sets. Visitors to the exhibit will also see the innovations that have enabled these flexible deployment solution sets.

UNIQUE PERFORMANCE

“Partnering with Draka and joining Megladon’s SCRATCHGUARD HLC connection technology (www.megladonmfg.com) with Draka’s cable products has created a one-of-a-kind solution for our customers. The relationship has exceeded our expectations. Network designers, engineers and installers can now choose to deploy extremely repeatable terminated cables into business critical applications and know they have created a rock solid asset that is scalable beyond 10G.” Added John Culbert, president – Megladon Manufacturing. New tests are revealing some areas of concern. There are flaws in many of the 10G connectors from other major manufacturers.

About DRAKA Communications
DRAKA Communications (www.draka.com/communications) is a world leader in fiber optic cables.

Total customer solutions
“We can do more than just supply cables. Draka can take on extensive projects, both in size and complexity. We do this because we believe in service and ‘total customer solutions’. Customers may for example, ask us to supply the cable, but also to look after logistics or design and engineering. Sometimes we are even responsible for the whole project, including installation, testing and commissioning. But whatever we do, we always listen carefully and seek out ‘the question behind the question’. Besides making the right cable for the job, we try and help identify what exactly is needed. Only then can we contribute actively to the customers’ success. How can we be of service to you?” Greg Williams, DRAKA Sales and Marketing Manager.

Draka Communications Americas
2512 Penny Road
Claremont NC 28610
United States

Toll free number: 800.879.9862
Int. number: 828.459.8895
Email address: info@drakaamericas.com

Accu-Tech Introduces LEED Training Course

Accu-Tech has been a proud member of the U.S. Green Building Council since 2009 and is pleased to announce we are a certified USGBC Education Provider.

Beginning Fall 2010, Accu-Tech kicks off it's LEED training seminars with Energy Efficient Data Center Cabling Infrastructure Design. This course will be held in the Washington DC / Baltimore area and is free to attend. If you are interested in bringing our training seminars to your area, contact your local Accu-Tech branch and let them know.

TRAINING:

Energy Efficient Data Center Cabling Infrastructure Design

FORMAT                         COURSE LEVEL            DURATION             PRICE
Facilitator-led Workshop  200 (Understanding)     Half-day                Free

Energy & Eco Efficient Data Center Cabling Infrastructure Design is a 4 class seminar (each class is 1 hour) that reviews the role of network cabling, as it relates to energy efficiency and the environment. The focus is data center (or any building with a data network) "best practices" for Thermal Management, Fiber Optics, Halogen Free Cable, and Network Electronics. Upon completing this seminar the attendee will have a broader knowledge of how the network cabling design can add value and efficiency to a building. A basic understanding of network cabling is beneficial for this seminar.

For more info, click here.

*LEED and the related logo is a trademark owned by the U.S. Green Building Council and is used with permission.

http://www.accu-tech.com/accu-insider/bid/51793/Introducing-Energy-Efficient-Data-Center-Cabling-Infrastructure-Design

Thanks Frank. My travel has increased 100%, it's crazy. Hardly in the office anymore. Traveling seems so much more fun when you're not doing it!

Brian P. Brown
Lead Web Developer & Internet Marketing
Accu-Tech Corporation
Cell: 678-997-9768 | Office: 770-663-2387

www.accu-tech.com
Follow Accu-Tech on Twitter
Join our Facebook Fan Page!
Subscribe to Accu-Tech's YouTube Channel
Find our Group on Linkedin

Anixter will launch its new infrastructure assurance program at AFCOM

Anixter will launch its new infrastructure assurance program—Anixter ipAssured for Data Centers(SM)—during a special live event at the upcoming AFCOM Data Center World trade show. Anixter ipAssured is an infrastructure assurance program that includes the physical infrastructure products and best practices needed to support current and future data center applications. The program will be unveiled at a customer reception that will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. on October 4 at The Mirage in Las Vegas.

Data centers are coming under unique pressures for strict sustainability, security and performance requirements. With its technical experts, Anixter is uniquely positioned to understand how a data center's physical infrastructure has a direct impact on overall performance. From reducing carbon emissions to improving operational efficiencies to boosting performance for longer life cycles, the scope of data concerns is increasing beyond storage and speed.

Several trends are directly impacting the design, performance and efficiency of data centers," said Andrew Jimenez, Anixter's Vice President of Technology for Enterprise Cabling Solutions. "From consolidation and virtualization to enhanced security and reducing environmental impact, data centers need to reduce energy consumption, ensure near continuous uptime and maximize operating costs." By implementing ipAssured, data centers can reduce their power consumption while boosting performance, which can result in an up to 55 percent savings in energy costs.

Anixter's new infrastructure assurance program will help simplify the tough choices data center and facility managers, enterprises, contractors and integrators need to make when building or upgrading new and existing data center facilities. The program includes the appropriate network cabling, racks and cabinets, power and cooling solutions, accessories, security, and data center management and monitoring products to support the needs and goals of an existing or new data center.

For ease of planning, ipAssured for data centers addresses three possible scenarios: "Refined" (IP- Class 1+), "Enhanced" (IP-Class 5+) and "Advanced" (IP-Class 10+). These classes provide users with readily identifiable categories of products and best practices for creating a robust infrastructure that will maximize the efficiency, sustainability and profitability of a data center.

Anixter ipAssured for Data Centers is part of Anixter's successful ipAssured infrastructure assurance program. Anixter ipAssured(SM)  for Security is an infrastructure assurance program that matches the cabling infrastructure to the security equipment based on the technical, application and life-cycle requirements of the user. For those that have attended Anixter's ipAssured for Security Webinars, nearly 90 percent said that based on what they learned from the program they will make different, more informed cabling purchasing decisions.

About Anixter

Anixter International is a leading global distributor of communication and security products, electrical and electronic wire and cable, fasteners and other small parts.

Cabling Installation & Maintenance Webcast: TIA Standards Update

October 13, 2010  1:00 pm EDT

The Telecommunications Industry Association’s TR-42 Engineering Committee develops the cabling specifications that set the benchmark for system performance and application support. This web-delivered seminar produced by Cabling Installation & Maintenance provides some of the latest information to come out of the subcommittees and groups within TR-42.

Presentation 1: Revising the TIA-942 Data Center Standard

Presenter: Doug Coleman; Manager of Technology and Standards, Corning Cable Systems

Initially published in 2005, the TIA-942 Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard for Data Centers is due for revision, and that revision is underway. This presentation will provide a brief overview of the specifications in the original 942 standard, then look at the additions and revisions that are being worked into the 942-A document.

Presentation 2: The TIA-1179 Healthcare Facility Telecom Infrastructure Standard

Presenter: Brian Ensign, RCDD, NTS, OSP, CSI; Director of Training and Technology, Legrand Ortronics

One of the newest standards to come from the TIA, the 1179 standard covers cabling requirements for healthcare facilities including hospitals. This presentation will explain why the cabling requirements for healthcare environments are vastly different from those for commercial buildings, and how the 1179 standard addresses those requirements.

Presentation 3: TIA’s OM4 fiber and the IEEE’s 40/100-GbE specifications’

Presenter: Kevin Paschal; Senior Product Manager, CommScope

Now completed, the specifications for OM4 fiber performance are a notable part of the IEEE’s 802.3ba specifications for 40 and 100 Gbit/sec transmission. This presentation takes on both topics, first explaining the specifics of OM4 and its capabilities, then describing what OM4 can deliver in terms of 40- and 100-Gbit/sec optical transmission as specified in 802.3ba.

To register or for more information:

http://www.cablinginstall.com/index/webcasts/webcast-display/6618596805/webcasts/cabling-installation-maintenance/live-events/tia-standards_update.html

On Oct. 8, TIA hailed enactment of the "21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act," which included consensus language on Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) that TIA negotiated with the accessibility community late last year.

More on TIA Standards Development

• Review new TIA standards projects adopted in Q3 2010
• See all TIA standards published in Q3 2010
• Bookmark TIA engineering committees' meetings calendar - with agendas and meeting reports
• Learn more about TIA standards development and how to participate
• TIA standards are available for purchase at http://global.ihs.com/

TIA Fosters International Cooperation on Smart Device Standards at GSC-15

A textbook case on the advances in personal Smart Device Communications was reported recently when a Texas man on vacation received a text message by an app on his iPhone notifying him that motion sensors in his home had been activated. Using his mobile phone, he watched - via a live feed from Webcams he had installed in his home - as burglars broke in. He immediately notified police, who arrived minutes later.

That's the mobile world we live in today: The sky's the limit, but only if the smart devices can communicate machine-to-machine (M2M).

To help ensure seamless interoperability through standards, TIA last year launched TR-50 Smart Device Communications Engineering Committee. TR-50's mission is to develop and maintain access-agnostic interface standards for the monitoring and bi-directional communication of events and information between smart devices and other devices, applications or networks.

The TR-50 mission is dependent on international cooperation, which is paramount to the smart device standards development effort.

Recently, TR-50 Chairman, Dr. Jeffrey Smith, CTO of Numerex, Inc., joined the TIA delegation led by TIA Vice President for Technology and Business Development Cheryl Blum, in Beijing. There they evangelized for the engineering committee's recent efforts to expand its support base during the 15th meeting of the Global Standards Collaboration (GSC-15), hosted by the China Communications Standards Association (CCSA) Aug. 30 to Sept. 1.

Dr. Smith gave a presentation (download PDF of slides - 225 KB) on TR-50's activities during the GSC-15's M2M session. At GSC-15, M2M was identified as a "High Interest Subject" for 2010.

The world's leading telecommunications and radio standards organizations meet annually at GSC to promote innovation and collaboration on next generation standards for converged fixed/mobile communication services.

More than 100 participants attended GSC-15 from eight Participating Standards Organizations (PSOs) and the ITU (International Telecommunication Union), as did observers from additional groups. Along with M2M, a broad spectrum of standards topics was discussed, including:

• International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT)
• Next Generation Networks (NGN)
• Home Networks
• Emergency Communications
• Cybersecurity
• ICT Management and Operation
• IPTV
• Reconfigurable Radio Systems
• Broadband Wireless Access and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
• ICT and Environment
• Smart Grid
• Cloud Computing
• Service Oriented Networks

The TIA delegation to GSC-15 participated in all the programming and provided invaluable insight and contributions toward the outcomes of the meeting.

• Download the communiqué from GSC-15 (PDF - 16K) >>

More Promotional Highlights for TR-50

Recent and upcoming presentations by TR-50 Chair, Dr. Jeff Smith, Numerex CTO:

• "Standardization as a Catalyst of M2M Market Expansion" - IEEE - Santa Clara University, Sept. 25
• "International Cooperation in the Area of M2M Standardization" - ITEXPO - M2M Evolution Conference, Los Angeles, Oct. 5
• "M2M's Intelligent Edge - The dynamic interaction between device, network, and application and its implications on standardization" - European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) M2M Workshop, Sophia Antipolis (France), Oct. 20

Recent presentation by TR-50 Vice Chair, Dr. Mitch Tseng, Tseng InfoServ, LLC (Representing Huawei Technologies):

• "M2M on CDMA: Challenges and Opportunities" - ITEXPO - CDG Smart Wireless Workshop: Building the Future with M2M - Oct. 4

For more information about TR-50 please contact Victoria Mitchell at vmitchell@tiaonline.org.

TR-42 Telecommunications Cabling Systems Meeting News

TIA's TR-42 Telecommunications Cabling Systems Engineering Committee held a week of meetings starting Sept. 26 in Albuquerque, N.M., where they launched the revision work on TIA-570-B, Residential Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard. TIA-570-B is an essential standard for cabling requirements, installation requirements, and planning for both single-family and multi-family residences. This revision will incorporate the information on residential security and control cabling currently addressed in addendums 1 and 2 to TIA-570-A.

The Committee also agreed to publish TIA-758-B, Customer Owned Outside Plant Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard, which specifies minimum requirements for customer-owned outside plant (OSP) telecommunications facilities in a campus environment. Customer-owned OSP cabling extends between separated structures including the terminating connecting hardware within the structures. The OSP pathways may include aerial, direct-buried, underground (e.g., duct), and tunnel distribution techniques. Customer-owned OSP pathways and spaces specified by the standard are intended to have a useful life in excess of 40 years. The OSP cabling specified by this standard is intended to support a wide range of applications (e.g., voice, data, video, alarms, environmental control, security, audio) on commercial, industrial, institutional and residential sites.

Additionally, the TR-42.7 Subcommittee on Telecommunications Copper Cabling Systems began discussion about possible standardization of Category 7 cable. Talks on this issue will continue at the next meeting of TR-42 in February 2011.

For more information about TR-45 please contact Teesha Jenkins at tjenkins@tiaonline.org.

TR-45 Mobile and Personal Communications Systems Standards Committee Meeting News

TIA TR-45 Mobile and Personal Communications Systems Standards Engineering Committee met Aug. 25-26 in Chicago, where key activities and agenda items included discussion and work on: IMT-Advanced, IMT-2000, Global Wireless Equipment Identifier Numbering, Joint ATIS/TIA standards development work, and numerous projects approved for ballot or publication as TIA or ANS standards by the TR-45 subcommittees.

The TR-45 Ad Hoc on International Mobile Telecommunications (AHIMT) completed its Final Report on the evaluation of candidate radio interface technologies for the terrestrial component of IMT-Advanced. The AHIMT discovered no cases where either IMT ADV/4 (IEEE 802.16m) or IMT ADV/8 (3GPP LTE-Advanced) failed to meet the minimum requirements. Committee TR-45 approved the Final Report that was submitted to the June 2010 meeting of ITU-R WP5D.

Regarding IMT-2000, Subcommittees TR-45.3, Time Division Digital Technology - Mobile and Personal Communications Standards, and TR-45.5, Spread Spectrum Digital Technology - Mobile and Personal Communications Standards, continue to provide revisions to the ITU-R WP5D Recommendation M.1457 relative to TDMA-SC and CDMA-MC, respectively.

At the Global Standards Collaboration (GSC-15) Aug. 30 - Sept. 2 in Beijing, TR-45 subcommittees and ad hoc groups prepared presentations for TIA on five of the High Interest Subjects (HISs): IMT standardization, emergency communications, lawful interception, wireless access, and IP over broadband access to support convergence. In addition, TR-45.5 contributed to the TIA presentations on M2M and Smart Embedded Device Communications.

The TR-45 EUM Ad Hoc Group continues its work to provide guidance to the ESN, UIM_ID, and MEID Administrators regarding manufacturer code assignment, re-assignment, and UIM_ID designation, as well as providing ESN to MEID and EUIMID migration industry outreach to promote awareness and guidance.

Work continues in the existing JCMAS group on the joint ATIS/TIA standards project on the certification and testing of the CMAS C-interface to be published as J-STD-102 later in 2010.

The next meeting of TR-45 is scheduled for Dec. 13-14 in Hawaii.

For more information about TR-45 please contact Victoria Mitchell at vmitchell@tiaonline.org.

Phase II Milestone for P25 Public Safety Standards Anticipated

A vote on final publication of the Project 25 Phase 2 TDMA MAC Layer document (TIA-102.BBAC) is on the Oct. 20 agenda for the TIA TR-8.12 Two Slot TDMA Engineering Subcommittee in Charleston, S.C., where TR-8 Mobile and Personal Private Radio Standards Engineering Committee is meeting next week.

The publication of TIA-102.BBAC represents a significant milestone and accomplishment for both TIA and the industry because it represents the completion of the P25 Phase 2 TDMA TIA-102 Core Definition Documents directly enabling development of interoperable P25 Phase 2 TDMA equipment.

TIA acts as a catalyst for the wireless industry to develop and maintain public safety standards for digital equipment and systems that will assist the life-saving and damage-control activities of first responders at the scene of an emergency or disaster situation. P25 is supported by industry, government agencies and public safety communications officials alike, including the Department of Homeland Security's National Communications System (NCS), the Department of Defense, and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

P25 Phase II implementation involves time and frequency modulation schemes (e.g., TDMA and FDMA), with the goal of improved spectrum utilization. Significant attention is also paid to interoperability with legacy equipment, interfacing between repeaters and other subsystems, roaming capacity and spectral efficiency/channel reuse. In addition, Phase II work involves console interfacing between repeaters and other subsystems, and man-machine interfaces for console operators, which would facilitate centralized training, equipment transitions and personnel movement.

The P25/TIA-102 Phase 2 TDMA Trunked Standard provides manufacturers and agencies a public safety standard that meets the 6.25 kHz spectral efficiency regulations defined by the FCC.

For more information about TR-8 please contact Ronda Coulter at rcoulter@tiaonline.org.

TR-34: Setting Satellite Standards Since 1995

TIA's TR-34 Satellite Equipment & Systems Engineering Committee celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. TR-34 has been setting satellite standards since 1995. The TIA standards developing engineering committee works closely with the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) to develop standards for space-borne and terrestrial hardware, interfaces on standards for satellite and terrestrial systems, and the efficient use of spectrum and orbital resources, including sharing between satellite and terrestrial services. Projects range from studies on how best to accomplish inter-service spectrum sharing to developing standards for achieving interoperability between satellite systems as well as among satellite and terrestrial systems, networks and services. TR-34 continues to provide input on a regular basis to the the National Institute of Science & Techn! ology (NIST) Smart Grid initiative. For more information about TR-34 please contact Ronda Coulter at rcoulter@tiaonline.org.

FOLS Webconference: Bend, Bandwidth or Both?

Making the Right Choice for Enterprise Networks

As part of the Fiber Optics LAN Section's (FOLS) ongoing webinar series, Ravi Yekula from Corning Optical Fiber is presenting "Bend, Bandwidth or Both? Making the Right Choice for Enterprise Networks." The free, 60-minute webinar will be held Thursday Oct. 28, from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.. The webinar will provide a vendor-neutral perspective on the role of multimode fiber in the enterprise as networks migrate to 40 GbE and beyond.

Participants will earn one BICSI Continuing Education Credit for attending.

Specifically the webinar will cover:

• Why multimode fiber remains the most cost-effective choice for enterprise networks
• How bend-insensitive multimode fibers can help solve key concerns of enterprise network operations

How OM4 fibers are now standardized and provide a path for extended distances for next generation speeds

• Why next generation standards will use OM3 and OM4 fibers to provide low cost future-proof solutions for enterprise networks

Plus, you'll have the chance to ask your questions about multimode fiber cabling.

Register at: http://fols.org/news/events/oct_2010_web conf.cfm

FOLS Web Conferences Available on Demand

In 2010, FOLS has continued with its series of web conferences developed for the premises market. If you missed participating live you still have the chance to watch them on demand AND earn a BICSI CEC by attending. PDF copies of the slides are also available on the FOLS web site (http://www.fols.org) in the presentations section.

• OM4 Fiber for Next Generation Networks, presented by John Kamino, OFS
• Multimode Fiber Trends, presented by Ryan Chappell, Draka Communications
• LAN Standards, News & Trends, presented by Herb Congdon, Tyco Electronics

New White Paper on Field Testing Installed Fiber

"Field Testing Installed Fiber (PDF - 1.1 MB)," co-authored by Fluke Networks and Ortronics/Legrand, reviews best practices for the technician performing field tests on installed optical fiber cabling.

TIA Attends 74th General Meeting of International Electrotechnical Commission

The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) attended the International Electrotechnical Commission's (IEC) 74th General Meeting in Seattle. The General Meeting began on Oct. 11 and runs through Oct. 15. Technical meetings began on Oct. 6 and continue through Oct. 16. TIA serves as secretariat for a number of IEC U.S. Technical Advisory Groups.

The IEC prepares and publishes international standards for all electrical, electronic and related technologies - collectively known as "electrotechnology." The IEC also manages conformity assessment systems that certify that equipment, systems or components conform to its international standards.

The 2010 General Meeting is IEC's biggest ever, with almost 2,800 delegates registered. There are 100 Technical Committees and Subcommittees meeting with over 400 groups in total. The meeting is supported by 58 general sponsors and 94 technical sponsors, representing a broad cross section of support and teamwork from industry, government, and organizations across the United States. TIA is a platinum sponsor for the meeting.

TIA Supports 21st ISO/IEC JTC1/SC25 Meeting

In conjunction with the IEC meeting, TIA is managing the 21st ISO/IEC Joint Technical Council 1/Subcommittee 25, Interconnection of Information Technology Equipment, plenary and working group meetings Oct.14-22, also in Seattle. The meeting for Working Group 1, Home Electronics Systems, is being held Oct. 14-17. Working Group 3, Customer Premises Cabling, is meeting Oct. 18-21, and Working Group 4, Interconnection of Computer Systems and Attached Equipment, meets Oct. 20-21.

TIA member companies participating include Bel Stewart Connectors; CommScope Network Solutions; Corning, Inc.; Erico, Inc.; Fluke Networks; J&M Consultants; Leviton Network Solutions; Microsoft Corp.; Siemon Company; and Tyco Electronics.

During World Standards Week, TIA Showcases Accessible Technology on Capitol Hill

TIA celebrated World Standards Week the last week of September, joining others that volunteer time and effort in the development of "standards for accessibility," the theme for this year's U.S. Celebration of World Standards Day.

Recognizing the critical role of model codes, standards, and conformity assessment activities in developing and maintaining the built environment, products, technologies, and systems that are accessible for persons with special needs, TIA participated at an ANSI-sponsored outreach event on Capitol Hill. TIA showcased the TIA-1083 standard that reduces noise and interference for digital phones when used by people with T-Coil equipped hearing aids or Cochlear implants. The standard has been updated recently to apply to newer technologies with digital interfaces, including Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, and USB.

On Oct. 8, TIA hailed enactment of the "21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act," which included consensus language on Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) that TIA negotiated with the accessibility community late last year.

More on TIA Standards Development

• Review new TIA standards projects adopted in Q3 2010
• See all TIA standards published in Q3 2010
• Bookmark TIA engineering committees' meetings calendar - with agendas and meeting reports
• Learn more about TIA standards development and how to participate
• TIA standards are available for purchase at http://global.ihs.com/

TIA Fosters International Cooperation on Smart Device Standards at GSC-15

A textbook case on the advances in personal Smart Device Communications was reported recently when a Texas man on vacation received a text message by an app on his iPhone notifying him that motion sensors in his home had been activated. Using his mobile phone, he watched - via a live feed from Webcams he had installed in his home - as burglars broke in. He immediately notified police, who arrived minutes later.

That's the mobile world we live in today: The sky's the limit, but only if the smart devices can communicate machine-to-machine (M2M).

To help ensure seamless interoperability through standards, TIA last year launched TR-50 Smart Device Communications Engineering Committee. TR-50's mission is to develop and maintain access-agnostic interface standards for the monitoring and bi-directional communication of events and information between smart devices and other devices, applications or networks.

The TR-50 mission is dependent on international cooperation, which is paramount to the smart device standards development effort.

Recently, TR-50 Chairman, Dr. Jeffrey Smith, CTO of Numerex, Inc., joined the TIA delegation led by TIA Vice President for Technology and Business Development Cheryl Blum, in Beijing. There they evangelized for the engineering committee's recent efforts to expand its support base during the 15th meeting of the Global Standards Collaboration (GSC-15), hosted by the China Communications Standards Association (CCSA) Aug. 30 to Sept. 1.

Dr. Smith gave a presentation (download PDF of slides - 225 KB) on TR-50's activities during the GSC-15's M2M session. At GSC-15, M2M was identified as a "High Interest Subject" for 2010.

The world's leading telecommunications and radio standards organizations meet annually at GSC to promote innovation and collaboration on next generation standards for converged fixed/mobile communication services.

More than 100 participants attended GSC-15 from eight Participating Standards Organizations (PSOs) and the ITU (International Telecommunication Union), as did observers from additional groups. Along with M2M, a broad spectrum of standards topics was discussed, including:

• International Mobile Telecommunications (IMT)
• Next Generation Networks (NGN)
• Home Networks
• Emergency Communications
• Cybersecurity
• ICT Management and Operation
• IPTV
• Reconfigurable Radio Systems
• Broadband Wireless Access and Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS)
• ICT and Environment
• Smart Grid
• Cloud Computing
• Service Oriented Networks

The TIA delegation to GSC-15 participated in all the programming and provided invaluable insight and contributions toward the outcomes of the meeting.

• Download the communiqué from GSC-15 (PDF - 16K) >>

More Promotional Highlights for TR-50

Recent and upcoming presentations by TR-50 Chair, Dr. Jeff Smith, Numerex CTO:

• "Standardization as a Catalyst of M2M Market Expansion" - IEEE - Santa Clara University, Sept. 25
• "International Cooperation in the Area of M2M Standardization" - ITEXPO - M2M Evolution Conference, Los Angeles, Oct. 5
• "M2M's Intelligent Edge - The dynamic interaction between device, network, and application and its implications on standardization" - European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) M2M Workshop, Sophia Antipolis (France), Oct. 20

Recent presentation by TR-50 Vice Chair, Dr. Mitch Tseng, Tseng InfoServ, LLC (Representing Huawei Technologies):

• "M2M on CDMA: Challenges and Opportunities" - ITEXPO - CDG Smart Wireless Workshop: Building the Future with M2M - Oct. 4

For more information about TR-50 please contact Victoria Mitchell at vmitchell@tiaonline.org.

TR-42 Telecommunications Cabling Systems Meeting News

TIA's TR-42 Telecommunications Cabling Systems Engineering Committee held a week of meetings starting Sept. 26 in Albuquerque, N.M., where they launched the revision work on TIA-570-B, Residential Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard. TIA-570-B is an essential standard for cabling requirements, installation requirements, and planning for both single-family and multi-family residences. This revision will incorporate the information on residential security and control cabling currently addressed in addendums 1 and 2 to TIA-570-A.

The Committee also agreed to publish TIA-758-B, Customer Owned Outside Plant Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard, which specifies minimum requirements for customer-owned outside plant (OSP) telecommunications facilities in a campus environment. Customer-owned OSP cabling extends between separated structures including the terminating connecting hardware within the structures. The OSP pathways may include aerial, direct-buried, underground (e.g., duct), and tunnel distribution techniques. Customer-owned OSP pathways and spaces specified by the standard are intended to have a useful life in excess of 40 years. The OSP cabling specified by this standard is intended to support a wide range of applications (e.g., voice, data, video, alarms, environmental control, security, audio) on commercial, industrial, institutional and residential sites.

Additionally, the TR-42.7 Subcommittee on Telecommunications Copper Cabling Systems began discussion about possible standardization of Category 7 cable. Talks on this issue will continue at the next meeting of TR-42 in February 2011.

For more information about TR-45 please contact Teesha Jenkins at tjenkins@tiaonline.org.

TR-45 Mobile and Personal Communications Systems Standards Committee Meeting News

TIA TR-45 Mobile and Personal Communications Systems Standards Engineering Committee met Aug. 25-26 in Chicago, where key activities and agenda items included discussion and work on: IMT-Advanced, IMT-2000, Global Wireless Equipment Identifier Numbering, Joint ATIS/TIA standards development work, and numerous projects approved for ballot or publication as TIA or ANS standards by the TR-45 subcommittees.

The TR-45 Ad Hoc on International Mobile Telecommunications (AHIMT) completed its Final Report on the evaluation of candidate radio interface technologies for the terrestrial component of IMT-Advanced. The AHIMT discovered no cases where either IMT ADV/4 (IEEE 802.16m) or IMT ADV/8 (3GPP LTE-Advanced) failed to meet the minimum requirements. Committee TR-45 approved the Final Report that was submitted to the June 2010 meeting of ITU-R WP5D.

Regarding IMT-2000, Subcommittees TR-45.3, Time Division Digital Technology - Mobile and Personal Communications Standards, and TR-45.5, Spread Spectrum Digital Technology - Mobile and Personal Communications Standards, continue to provide revisions to the ITU-R WP5D Recommendation M.1457 relative to TDMA-SC and CDMA-MC, respectively.

At the Global Standards Collaboration (GSC-15) Aug. 30 - Sept. 2 in Beijing, TR-45 subcommittees and ad hoc groups prepared presentations for TIA on five of the High Interest Subjects (HISs): IMT standardization, emergency communications, lawful interception, wireless access, and IP over broadband access to support convergence. In addition, TR-45.5 contributed to the TIA presentations on M2M and Smart Embedded Device Communications.

The TR-45 EUM Ad Hoc Group continues its work to provide guidance to the ESN, UIM_ID, and MEID Administrators regarding manufacturer code assignment, re-assignment, and UIM_ID designation, as well as providing ESN to MEID and EUIMID migration industry outreach to promote awareness and guidance.

Work continues in the existing JCMAS group on the joint ATIS/TIA standards project on the certification and testing of the CMAS C-interface to be published as J-STD-102 later in 2010.

The next meeting of TR-45 is scheduled for Dec. 13-14 in Hawaii.

For more information about TR-45 please contact Victoria Mitchell at vmitchell@tiaonline.org.

Phase II Milestone for P25 Public Safety Standards Anticipated

A vote on final publication of the Project 25 Phase 2 TDMA MAC Layer document (TIA-102.BBAC) is on the Oct. 20 agenda for the TIA TR-8.12 Two Slot TDMA Engineering Subcommittee in Charleston, S.C., where TR-8 Mobile and Personal Private Radio Standards Engineering Committee is meeting next week.

The publication of TIA-102.BBAC represents a significant milestone and accomplishment for both TIA and the industry because it represents the completion of the P25 Phase 2 TDMA TIA-102 Core Definition Documents directly enabling development of interoperable P25 Phase 2 TDMA equipment.

TIA acts as a catalyst for the wireless industry to develop and maintain public safety standards for digital equipment and systems that will assist the life-saving and damage-control activities of first responders at the scene of an emergency or disaster situation. P25 is supported by industry, government agencies and public safety communications officials alike, including the Department of Homeland Security's National Communications System (NCS), the Department of Defense, and the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).

P25 Phase II implementation involves time and frequency modulation schemes (e.g., TDMA and FDMA), with the goal of improved spectrum utilization. Significant attention is also paid to interoperability with legacy equipment, interfacing between repeaters and other subsystems, roaming capacity and spectral efficiency/channel reuse. In addition, Phase II work involves console interfacing between repeaters and other subsystems, and man-machine interfaces for console operators, which would facilitate centralized training, equipment transitions and personnel movement.

The P25/TIA-102 Phase 2 TDMA Trunked Standard provides manufacturers and agencies a public safety standard that meets the 6.25 kHz spectral efficiency regulations defined by the FCC.

For more information about TR-8 please contact Ronda Coulter at rcoulter@tiaonline.org.

TR-34: Setting Satellite Standards Since 1995

TIA's TR-34 Satellite Equipment & Systems Engineering Committee celebrates its 15th anniversary this year. TR-34 has been setting satellite standards since 1995. The TIA standards developing engineering committee works closely with the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI) to develop standards for space-borne and terrestrial hardware, interfaces on standards for satellite and terrestrial systems, and the efficient use of spectrum and orbital resources, including sharing between satellite and terrestrial services. Projects range from studies on how best to accomplish inter-service spectrum sharing to developing standards for achieving interoperability between satellite systems as well as among satellite and terrestrial systems, networks and services. TR-34 continues to provide input on a regular basis to the the National Institute of Science & Techn! ology (NIST) Smart Grid initiative. For more information about TR-34 please contact Ronda Coulter at rcoulter@tiaonline.org.

FOLS Webconference: Bend, Bandwidth or Both?

Making the Right Choice for Enterprise Networks<=

As part of the Fiber Optics LAN Section's (FOLS) ongoing webinar series, Ravi Yekula from Corning Optical Fiber is presenting "Bend, Bandwidth or Both? Making the Right Choice for Enterprise Networks." The free, 60-minute webinar will be held Thursday Oct. 28, from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.. The webinar will provide a vendor-neutral perspective on the role of multimode fiber in the enterprise as networks migrate to 40 GbE and beyond.

Participants will earn one BICSI Continuing Education Credit for attending.

Specifically the webinar will cover:

• Why multimode fiber remains the most cost-effective choice for enterprise networks
• How bend-insensitive multimode fibers can help solve key concerns of enterprise network operations

How OM4 fibers are now standardized and provide a path for extended distances for next generation speeds

• Why next generation standards will use OM3 and OM4 fibers to provide low cost future-proof solutions for enterprise networks

Plus, you'll have the chance to ask your questions about multimode fiber cabling.

Register at: http://fols.org/news/events/oct_2010_web conf.cfm

FOLS Web Conferences Available on Demand

In 2010, FOLS has continued with its series of web conferences developed for the premises market. If you missed participating live you still have the chance to watch them on demand AND earn a BICSI CEC by attending. PDF copies of the slides are also available on the FOLS web site (http://www.fols.org) in the presentations section.

• OM4 Fiber for Next Generation Networks, presented by John Kamino, OFS
• Multimode Fiber Trends, presented by Ryan Chappell, Draka Communications
• LAN Standards, News & Trends, presented by Herb Congdon, Tyco Electronics

New White Paper on Field Testing Installed Fiber

"Field Testing Installed Fiber (PDF - 1.1 MB)," co-authored by Fluke Networks and Ortronics/Legrand, reviews best practices for the technician performing field tests on installed optical fiber cabling.

Call for Speakers Opens for 'TIA 2011: Inside the Network'

Save the Dates: May 17-20, 2011 at the Gaylord Texan Hotel by Dallas/Fort Worth Airport; TR-50 Meeting to Be Held at the Event

TIA is accepting submissions for presentations and panel sessions for TIA 2011: Inside the Network, a Summit and Exhibition taking place May 17-20, 2011, at the Gaylord Texan Hotel near Dallas.

TIA TR-50 Smart Device Communications Engineering Committee will be meeting at TIA 2011: Inside the Network.

TIA 2011: Inside the Network features new insight, perspective and information about the evolving role of the network service provider, technology solutions provider, and new entrants to the broadband communications ecosystem. The growth of bandwidth and IP connectivity on multiple platforms - TV, broadband, and mobile - creates unprecedented opportunity for businesses and consumers to use digital content on their own terms: anytime, anywhere, on potentially any device. Yet such flexibility also creates new challenges for all players in our industry, ranging from content producers, to integrated communications carriers, to technology solutions providers, applications developers, and more.

TIA 2011: Inside the Network addresses this changing business landscape with new thinking, new approaches to content monetization, and new frameworks for partnerships that will help lead the broadband communications industry to meet the needs of customers of all kinds with One Network - secure, reliable, scalable, and sustainable.

TIA is seeking knowledgeable, insightful and forward-looking speakers covering all aspects of broadband communications, networks and services. Speakers are required to be objective, dynamic, and enthusiastic about sharing their expertise and knowledge.

To review the conference tracks/topics, guidelines, evaluation criteria and other important facts regarding speaking opportunities, go to http://www.tia2011.org/speakers.htm. The deadline for submissions is Nov. 15, 2010.

• Read the full press release | Watch TIA 2011 Trailer >>
• Learn more about TIA 2011: Inside the Network >>
• Exhibiting and sponsorship opportunities: Contact TIA at exhibits@tiaonline.org, or call +1.703.907.7002 >>
• Download the prospectus (PDF - 1.5 MB) >>
• For media barters contact Jeff Hannah at jhannah@tiaonline.org, or call +1.703.907.7582 >>

Stay Current with TechTrends Update to 'TIA ICT Market Review & Forecast'

TIA's TechTrends Report is now available for subscribers to TIA's ICT Market Review & Forecast. Get the latest updates on:

• The Consolidation of the Independent Telcos
• Highly Anticipated Smartphones Entering the Market
• A Roundup of Recent Broadband Regulatory Developments

Keep pace with ICT market intelligence through TIA's ICT Market Review & Forecast, an invaluable tool that gives you the knowledge you need to a gain a competitive edge. The report covers the global and U.S. ICT industry, with detailed chapters that include a U.S. Policy overview as well as analyses of Landline, Mobile/Wireless, Enterprise, and International markets by region. Filled with forecasts based on data, trends, and analysis, the report is more than 500 pages and includes more than 400 statistical charts.

As a TIA member, you pay only $700 for the report, a discount of more than 60 percent. The TIA TechTrends report is included with your purchase.

• Get your copy today >>

Get Your TIA 2009-2010 STAR Report

The latest edition of TIA's annual Standards and Technology Annual Report (STAR) provides a full and detailed overview of the thrust of TIA's innovating standards developing programs. Download the free PDF version >>

TIA is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) to develop voluntary industry standards for the information and communications technology (ICT) industry.

TIA's Standards and Technology Department comprises 11 technology areas that sponsor more than 70 standards formulating groups. These technology areas are Mobile Private Radio, Point-to-Point Communications Systems, Multi-Media Access, Protocols and Interfaces, Satellite Equipment and Systems, User Premises Telecommunications, Telecommunications Cabling Systems (both copper and fiber), Mobile and Personal Communications Systems, Terrestrial Mobile Multimedia Multicast, Vehicular Telematics, Healthcare ICT and Smart Device Communications. Each area is represented by engineering committees and subcommittees that formulate standards to serve the industry and users.

Editor's Note

Your feedback is most welcome. Please feel free to contact me at msnyder@tiaonline.org. To learn more about participating in developing TIA standards, go to http://www.tiaonline.org/standards/. Thank you. - Mike Snyder, Innovating Standards

Leading Analyst Firm Declares ShoreTel the Fastest Growing IP Telephony Vendor Worldwide

ShoreTel Also Rated as the #1 Worldwide Unified Communications Desktop Solution Provider and Moved Into the Top Three Suppliers in the United States

SUNNYVALE, CA--(Marketwire - 09/22/10) - ShoreTel® (NASDAQ:SHOR - News), the leading provider of brilliantly simple IP phone systems with fully integrated unified communications (UC), today highlighted the results from the most recent Synergy Enterprise Voice Q2 2010 report:

Fastest growing: Synergy data shows that ShoreTel is the fastest growing IP telephony vendor worldwide, based on Q2 revenues over Q1.

Leads the industry in UC desktop deployments: ShoreTel continues to lead the industry as the No. 1 UC desktop vendor for small and midsize businesses.

Top three suppliers in North America: For the second quarter in a row, ShoreTel is in the top three IP telephony suppliers in the United States, based on revenue.

QUOTES FROM THE SYNERGY REPORT:

"ShoreTel has rapidly become successful in terms of market share and revenue growth and is regarded by most as a healthy company, even in these tough economic times, which adds to its allure."

"ShoreTel's success in capturing market share in the SMB and now larger enterprise markets centers on product quality and simplicity (a single communications platform) and its development of a strong global indirect distribution channel."

"Over the past several quarters Synergy's research has identified ShoreTel as the leading vendor in the global SMB voice marketplace."

"Although ShoreTel's initial strength was in the SMB market, the company has been encroaching upon the larger enterprise market. Every new enterprise win will add credibility in this area."

"National partners, which are ATT, Qwest, Verizon, BlackBox and CDW, showed a solid 77 percent growth in volume fiscal year-over-year."

"We believe those vendors that are strong will be able to ride out the current situation and gain market share when spending improves." Synergy has identified ShoreTel as one of these strong vendors.

ShoreTel also recently was named the Best IP Telephony Provider in the Nemertes PilotHouse Awards -- Top Providers, IP Telephony 2010 for the seventh consecutive year. Like last year, ShoreTel was again ranked first in every category against every competitor.

In addition, the company recently initiated a major advertising campaign to call attention to an "Anti-Complexity Movement" that encourages business to reject the unnecessary and costly complexity that has become the norm for many vendors in enterprise communications.

SHORETEL QUOTE
"This Q2 2010 Synergy report validates that our ongoing commitment to product and service excellence continue to meet the communication and collaboration needs of our customers. ShoreTel continues to grow and capture market share because of our brilliantly simple approach to sophisticated IP-based communications. As more and more businesses emerge from the downturn, they are recognizing that upgrading their communications infrastructure is key to prospering in the highly competitive environment ahead, and that ShoreTel can give them the business agility they need."

- Kevin Gavin, Vice President of Marketing, ShoreTel

SYNERGY QUOTE
"ShoreTel continues to successfully execute on its growth strategy in the Enterprise IP Telephony market. In Q2 2010, ShoreTel grew its U.S. revenues faster than any other vendor, faster than Avaya and four times faster than Cisco. Considering the size of their competitors and the state of the economy, ShoreTel is showing signs of remarkable strength and resiliency."

- Jeremy Duke, Founder and Principal Analyst at Synergy Research Group.

For detailed information on ShoreTel products and features, click here.

Follow ShoreTel on Twitter and Facebook.
Subscribe to ShoreTel's blog.

RELATED LINKS & CONVERSATION

ShoreTel Anti-Complexity Movement

ShoreTel Corporate Overview

ShoreTel Customer Success Stories (videos and case studies)

ShoreTel Features

ShoreTel Awards

About ShoreTel, Inc.
ShoreTel, Inc. (NASDAQ:SHOR - News) is the provider of brilliantly simple Unified Communication (UC) solutions based on its award-winning IP business phone system. We offer organizations of all sizes integrated, voice, video, data, and mobile communications on an open, distributed IP architecture that helps significantly reduce the complexity and costs typically associated with other solutions. The feature-rich ShoreTel UC system offers the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO) and the highest customer satisfaction in the industry, in part because it is easy to deploy, manage, scale and use. Increasingly, companies around the world are finding a competitive edge by replacing business-as-usual with new thinking, and choosing ShoreTel to handle their integrated business communication. ShoreTel is based in Sunnyvale, California, and has regional offices in Austin, Texas, United Kingdom, Sydney, Australia and Munich, Germany. For more information, visit www.shoretel.com.

Nemertes Research Awards ShoreTel Best IP Telephony Provider for Seventh Year in a Row

ShoreTel Customers Rate Its Technology, Customer Service, and Value Highest in the Industry

SUNNYVALE, CA--(Marketwire - 09/15/10) - ShoreTel® (NASDAQ:SHOR - News), the leading provider of brilliantly simple IP phone systems with fully integrated unified communications (UC), today announced that for the seventh consecutive year, it has received the highest ratings for IP telephony products from IT decision makers in Nemertes Research annual benchmark. Nemertes, an independent research firm based in Illinois, received ratings for 37 IP telephony vendors and determined the award solely on the views and experiences of more than 2,000 actual users of IP telephony systems.

ShoreTel continues to win by a significant margin in all areas evaluated, beating all providers, including Cisco, Avaya, and Mitel, in all categories. "ShoreTel has maintained its first-place standing, with more authority than ever," the report states. "This year, ShoreTel is the winner with an impressive 4.22 overall score." The next highest overall score from a competing vendor was 3.90.

NEWS HIGHLIGHTS

Customers rated their providers on a scale of 1 to 5 in the following categories: Technology, Customer Service, and Value. ShoreTel was the only vendor to score above a 4 rating in all categories. Nemertes analysts also conducted in-depth conversations with a subset of IP telephony decision-makers to understand the reasons behind the results.

Technology: This year, ShoreTel received its highest rating yet for technology, 4.33, surpassing last year's 4.08. "From a technology perspective, participants rating ShoreTel also say the system is easy to understand and not overly complex like some of its competitors," the report states.

Customer Service: ShoreTel received a 4.10 rating for customer service, another jump over the previous year. One research participant, a CIO of a $100 million K-12 school district, is quoted in the report as saying of ShoreTel, "They are sterling relative to their peers." ShoreTel was the only vendor to score above 4 in this category.

Value: The value rating measures what customers think about what they get for their money. With the top value rating of 4.24, ShoreTel far surpassed the competition, beating out vendors such as Cisco, Avaya, Mitel and Microsoft.

QUOTES

"We are honored to earn this highly prestigious award for the seventh year running. Clearly, ShoreTel customers value our commitment to product and service excellence. ShoreTel's all-in-one UC system was designed to eliminate complexity by offering a brilliantly simple solution to help our customers align business communications with business goals, improving efficiency, reducing costs and increasing productivity. Our partners and employees understand how important it is to our customers that the decision to bring ShoreTel into the business is the right decision. Our consistently high marks in the Nemertes PilotHouse Awards indicate that we continue to deliver on these promises."
- John W. Combs, CEO, ShoreTel

"ShoreTel is the only vendor in any technology category to have received the highest scores since Nemertes started tracking IT decision-maker ratings seven years ago. ShoreTel's customers continually rate its customer service, technology and value ahead of all of its competitors."
- Robin Gareiss, Nemertes' executive vice president and senior founding partner

For detailed information on ShoreTel products and features, click here.

Follow ShoreTel on Twitter and Facebook.
Subscribe to ShoreTel's blog.

RELATED LINKS & CONVERSATION

ShoreTel Customer Success Stories (videos and case studies)

ShoreTel Features

ShoreTel Awards

About ShoreTel, Inc.
ShoreTel, Inc. (NASDAQ:SHOR - News) is the provider of brilliantly simple Unified Communication (UC) solutions based on its award-winning IP business phone system. We offer organizations of all sizes integrated, voice, video, data, and mobile communications on an open, distributed IP architecture that helps significantly reduce the complexity and costs typically associated with other solutions. The feature-rich ShoreTel UC system offers the lowest total cost of ownership (TCO) and the highest customer satisfaction in the industry, in part because it is easy to deploy, manage, scale and use. Increasingly, companies around the world are finding a competitive edge by replacing business-as-usual with new thinking, and choosing ShoreTel to handle their integrated business communication. ShoreTel is based in Sunnyvale, California, and has regional offices in Austin, Texas, United Kingdom, Sydney, Australia and Munich, Germany. For more information, visit www.shoretel.com.

New datacom manufacturer opens for business

Staring down the “worst recession since The Depression” as we have all heard ad nauseam, data-communications industry veteran Tony Casazza has launched QuickTreX (www.quicktrex.com), a product manufacturer. Currently the QuickTreX brand includes four product categories, but Casazza says more will be added in the coming year. The initial product set includes the following.

• Copper cabling hardware including plugs, jacks and patch panels
• FiberWhips - preterminated fiber-optic cable assemblies that can be custom ordered
• Tools for terminating, testing and installing network cabling
• Toolkits

Though launched this year, the company is based on an idea Casazza says he’s had for many years. Before founding QuickTreX, he operated online data-communications supply store LANshack (www.lanshack.com) for more than a decade after years of field work as an electrician and structured cabling installer. LANshack is still in full operation and carries QuickTreX products. “In the online store we faced the product limitations set by various manufacturers and always knew that we could do much better in many different ways,” he says.

Casazza said that he has identified entities that are willing to work with QuickTreX to develop new products. Some of those established partnerships have resulted in the products now available from QuickTreX, with the promise of more to come. “QuickTreX tools ... are thoroughly designed, engineered and tested by experts under real-world conditions,” Casazza states.

www.quicktrex.com.

Reprinted with permission from PennWell’s Cabling Installation & Maintenance Magazine – September 2010 issue  www.cablinginstall.com

PennWell Corporation Market Sectors Served: Oil and natural gas, Electric power generation,  Electric power delivery, Hydropower, Renewable energy, Water and wastewater treatment, Waste management, Electronics and semiconductors, Optoelectronics and photonics, Imaging and machine vision, Fiber optics and communications, Aerospace and defense, Cabling installation and maintenance, LEDs and lighting, Firefighting and emergency services, and Dental.

Hitachi Cable Manchester Introduces Mojave™ Dry-Block Fiber Optic Cables

Manchester, NH, September 7, 2010 

Hitachi Cable Manchester is pleased to introduce a completely gel-free outside plant fiber optic cable.  The Mojave™ line of fiber optic cables, available with 12 to 432 strands of optical fiber, consists of 250 micron optical fibers (Corning™ glass is standard) housed within buffer tubes that utilize aramid yarns impregnated with Super Absorbent Polymers (SAP) for water blocking.  Outside the buffer tubes, additional SAP impregnated yarns are used to further prohibit water migration within the cable. The cable core is protected by a robust polyolefin outer jacket that is moisture and fungus resistant.  Optical fiber options include all multimode and singlemode glass types. Mojave™ cables are also available with corrugated armor and all Mojave™ cable constructions are compatible with all connectors intended for loose tube 250 micron glass.  Mojave™ cables are available through HCM’s network of authorized distributors.

About HCM

HCM, located in Manchester, NH manufacturers a complete line of copper and fiber optic cables for the communication industry.  Over 3,500 different cable products are manufactured at this facility. Products include Category 7, 6A, 5e and 3 copper communication cables, indoor, outdoor and indoor/outdoor fiber optic cables, as well as round and flat electronic cables.

To learn more about HCM products and where you can purchase them, please contact HCM toll free at 800-772-0116 or visit the HCM website at www.hcm.hitachi.com. 

29 More Buildings Receive the BOMA 360 Designation for Excellence in Management

(WASHINGTON—September 22, 2010) The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International today announced the 29 buildings that make up the latest class of buildings to earn the BOMA 360 Performance Program® designation. The BOMA 360 Performance Program is a groundbreaking new program designed to recognize commercial properties that demonstrate best practices in building operations and management. Since the program’s inception in Spring 2009, more than 150 buildings have been designated.

“Today’s challenging marketplace demands excellence in property management and these buildings have proven that they are meeting quality benchmarks in every aspect of building management and operations,” commented BOMA International Chair Ray H. Mackey, Jr., RPA, CPM, CCIM, partner and chief operating officer, Stream Realty Partners, L.P. “The BOMA 360 designation will help them attract and retain tenants, and ultimately enhance asset values for their owners and investors.”

The BOMA 360 Performance Program evaluates properties on six major areas of building management: building operations and management; life safety/security/risk management; training and education; energy; environment/sustainability; and tenant relations/community involvement. The comprehensive nature of the BOMA 360 Performance Program means that every aspect of building performance is assessed and scores are based on how buildings meet an extensive checklist of best practices. The program comes at a critical time, as building owners and managers are looking to differentiate themselves from competition in a distressed market.

The new class of BOMA 360 buildings includes:

191 North Wacker             

Chicago, Ill.

Owned by: The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company (U.S.A) 

Managed by: Manulife Financial

2300 Cabot Drive               

Lisle, Ill. 

Owned by: Piedmont Office Realty Trust          

Managed by: Piedmont Office Management, LLC

475 14th Street   

Oakland, Calif.      

Owned by: Okland 14th Office, Inc. Managed by: RREEF/CB Richard Ellis

5th and Bell

Seattle, Wash.       

Owned by: Hines REIT 5th and Bell LLC           

Managed by: Hines Interests Limited Partnership

855 Boylston Street           

Boston, Mass.

Owned by: Gateway Longwood, Inc.

Managed by: CB Richard Ellis - New England

Bank of America Plano Tower

Plano, Texas

Owned by: Parmenter 101 E. Park Boulevard LP

Managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners

Corridors III       

Downers Grove, Ill.              

Owned by: Wells Real Estate Funds

Managed by: Piedmont Office Management, LLC

Federal Reserve Plaza       

Boston, Mass.

Owned and managed by: Federal Reserve Bank of Boston

Fifth Third Center              

Cleveland               , Ohio

Owned by: Behringer Harvard 600 Superior Avenue LP

Managed by: HPT Management Services

Las Colinas Tower I

Irving, Texas

Owned and managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners    

Las Colinas Tower II         

Irving, Texas         

Owned and managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners    

Nashville City Center         

Nashville, Tenn.   

Owned by: Parmenter Nashville City Center LLC

Managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners

Northrop Grumman Plaza               

Los Angeles, Calif.

Owned by: California State Teachers' Retirement System              

Managed by: CB Richard Ellis, Inc.

One Financial Plaza           

St. Louis, Mo.        

Owned and managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners    

One Glenlake       

Atlanta, Ga.           

Owned by: Wells Real Estate Funds

Managed by: Wells Real Estate

One Park Plaza    

Milwaukee, Wisc. 

Owned by: GLL Real Estate Partners

Managed by: Transwestern

One Warren Place              

Tulsa, Okla.

Owned by: Parmenter One Warren, L.P.

Managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners

Overlook III

Atlanta, Ga.

Owned by: Parmenter Overlook III, LP, LLLP

Managed by: Parmenter Realty Partner

Pacific Plaza        

Daly City, Calif.     

Owned by: DB Real Estate Pacific Plaza Partners L.P.     

Managed by: CBRE

Piedmont West Medical Office Park

Atlanta, Ga.           

Owned by: Carter H.M. MOB I, LLC

Managed by: Carter and Associates

Pleasanton Corporate Commons

Pleasanton, Calif.

Owned by: 6200 Stoneridge Mall Road Investors, LLC   

Managed by: Hines Interests, L.P.

Post Montgomery Center  

San Francisco, Calif.             

Owned by: NLI and Prudential Real Estate Investors     

Managed by: Cushman & Wakefield

SunTrust Center 

Richmond, Va.      

Owned and managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners, LP, LLLP

Tamarac Plaza One            

Denver, Colo.        

Owned by: Parmenter Hampden Avenue, LLC

Managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners

Tamarac Plaza Two           

Denver, Colo.        

Owned by: Parmenter Hampden Avenue, LLC

Managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners

Tamarac Plaza Three

Denver, Colo.

Owned by: Parmenter Hampden Avenue, LLC

Managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners

Two Pierce Place               

Itasca, Ill.               

Owned by: Piedmont Office Realty Trust

Managed by: Piedmont Office Management

Two Warren Place             

Tulsa, Okla.           

Owned by: Parmenter Two Warren, L.P.          

Managed by: Parmenter Realty Partners

Woodson Tower

Houston, Texas     

Owned by: American General

Managed by: Cushman & Wakefield

To view all the buildings that have received the BOMA 360 designation, visit http://www.boma.org/getinvolved/boma360/Pages/360Buildings.aspx.

For more information on the BOMA 360 Performance Program, visit www.boma.org/GetInvolved/BOMA360.

***

About BOMA International

The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International is an international federation of more than 100 local associations and affiliated organizations. Founded in 1907, its 16,500-plus members own or manage more than nine billion square feet of commercial properties. BOMA International’s mission is to enhance the human, intellectual and physical assets of the commercial real estate industry through advocacy, education, research, standards and information. On the Web at www.boma.org.

CABA news brief - Continental Automated Building Association

September 30, 2010

News for the automated homes and buildings industry

Click here for CABA's Industry Event Update

Home Systems

§                       Video: Can the PlayBook tablet compete?
Research in Motion's 0.9-pound PlayBook tablet will hit the market in 2011 featuring a 7-inch screen, Flash video and Wi-Fi connection, co-CEO Michael Lazaridis revealed Monday. Analysts say the question remains: Can RIM effectively complete with Apple and Google's Android in the tablet space? ClipSyndicate/Bloomberg (9/28)

§                       AMX premieres AMXhome with energy management
AMX, a leading provider of solutions that simplify the implementation, maintenance, and use of technology to create effective environments, recently announced AMXhome with energy management. This new feature provides homeowners greater energy-efficiency as they can monitor and manage their utilities, including electric, water, gas and oil, from a touch panel. AMX (9/23)

§                       Let me hear your body talk
Freer Logic has created an armband sensor that picks up brainwaves and sends signals wirelessly to a PC, so that a user could potentially control the computer with her mind. Called BodyWave, the device monitors the brain’s physiologic signal through the body. The device can be worn on the arm or leg. The company points out that such technology is less intrusive than headsets or wired sensors. Network World (9/28)

§                       No single device or manufacturer will dominate connected home, says report
The connected home has evolved and is no longer about connecting several PCs around the home to the Internet, but rather about connecting any number of devices to the network so that users can access their content wherever they are in the home, according to a new report from Informa Telecoms & Media (publisher of IPTV News). Broadband World Forum 2010 (9/28)

§                       Cox weighs its home-networking strategy
Cox Communications is taking a long look into whether it should get into managed services for its customers' home-networking needs. "We're figuring out whether to move to more of a managed services model with the gateways," said Seth Hogan, Cox's vice president of strategy and product development. "We're putting some capabilities into our network that give us the ability to do some remote diagnostics and remote repair. We could offer customers the option for us to manage their home networks for some kind of recurring fee." CEDMagazine.com (9/28)

§                       Study shows most are not living in a "connected" world
A report from NPD Group shows 75% of respondents do not take advantage of consumer-electronics devices that can be connected to the Internet. Those who are using connected devices said they have done so via computer (15%), video-game player (6%), smartphone (4%) and Blu-ray or digital video player (2%). Home Media Magazine (9/28)

§                       CEDIA announces its Electronic Lifestyles® awards winners
The Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA) recognized the outstanding work of its members at its annual Electronic Lifestyles® Awards Banquet last week. The honorees included more than 40 winning projects in the Designer Awards competition, 15 Manufacturers’ Excellence Awards winners, three inductees into the CEDIA Fellows program, and the 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient. Also honored were the year's top volunteers. CEDIA (9/21)

§                       Bendable, foldable displays are on the horizon
Firms such as CABA member, the Industrial Technology Research Institute in Taiwan, are developing a new breed of device display that can be folded, twisted or rolled up. The benefits of such a screen, according to this report, are that they could be used to make consumer-electronics devices even more lightweight and portable than they are already. The Wall Street Journal (9/26)

§                       Report: Apple is expected to ship TV gadget within weeks
Apple, according to published reports, might begin shipping its Apple TV product within the next few weeks to those who have pre-ordered the device. Apple has announced content partnerships with ABC and Fox for the device, but whether NBC and CBS come on board remains an open question. PC World/ITworld (9/26)

§                       It's good news, bad news for the massively multiplayer online business
Despite the fact the massively multiplayer online market in the U.S. and Europe has grown from $1.4 billion in 2008 to $1.6 billion last year, the average revenue derived from each player during that period fell by 10%, according to Screen Digest. The drop in per-player revenue was chalked up to emerging business models such as microtransactions and free online titles. Joystiq.com (9/26)

§                       Streaming video adds competition, different rules for Netflix
Netflix has won the battle for dominance in the DVD-rental business, just in time to gear up for more competition as consumers move away from DVDs in favor of streaming video. In the new arena, which includes competitors such as Amazon, Apple and Google, the strongest players will be the ones that strike the best content deals with movie and TV studios, according to this article. The New York Times (9/26)

§                       Will Cisco unveil a version of TelePresence for consumers?
Cisco Systems on Oct. 6 is scheduled to introduce a major consumer product and, according to this report, it could be a more user-friendly version of its TelePresence video-conferencing system. In May, Cisco's Robert Lloyd said the company was looking to offer a far less expensive version of the TelePresence system that would be targeted to consumers. Reuters (9/27)

§                       Roku's new line of video players takes aim at Apple TV
Roku released a line of low-cost video players this week that stream high-definition content from companies including Netflix and Amazon. The new offerings aim to compete with Apple TV and similar products from search giant Google and startup Boxee, which is slated to launch later this year. MIT Technology Review (9/24)

§                       IBM research could expand hard-drive memory from GBs to TBs
IBM has developed a new process to observe atomic reactions in real time, an advancement that could lead to dramatically increased memory in PCs and mobile devices. The technique might make it possible for companies to produce hard drives that store 1,000 times more data than currently is possible. "Think of iPhones that, instead of having gigabytes, have terabytes -- that's what this could mean," said Rob Enderle, a principal analyst at Endrle Group. Bloomberg (9/23)

§                       Chinese iPod Touch-to-iPhone converter looks to U.S. market
A Chinese company named Yosion has developed a device called the Apple Peel that, in effect, allows iPod Touches to be turned into full-fledged iPhones. The company has found a partner in GoSolarUSA, which is looking to patent the product with Yosion and bring it to the U.S. CNET/Apple blog (9/23)

§                       Firms prepare new offerings for multiroom and systems integration
A variety of equipment suppliers are introducing brands into the multiroom A/V system and systems-integration markets. The new products for multiroom are coming from companies such as URC, Emotive and Russound, while new systems-integration solutions are being set forward by Aton and Legrand. TWICE (9/23)

§                       10% of Americans own an e-reader, poll finds
One in 10 U.S. consumers now owns an e-reader and an additional 12% plan to purchase one within the next six months, according to a poll from Harris Interactive. The survey found that more than half of the respondents who used the devices had read more books in the previous six months than those who didn't own an e-reader. eWeek.com (9/22)

§                       Dell mulls streaming devices
Dell is considering following in the footsteps of companies such as Apple and Roku in developing devices that stream content from personal computers to TV screens. The computer company is talking with set-top box makers and original design manufacturers and is even kicking the tires on the Google TV platform. Network World/IDG News Service (9/23)

§                       Best Buy-backed app aims to ease gadget buying
A new app dubbed Tecca was designed to make it easier for consumers to make gadget-buying decisions. Tecca, the first product to come from a digital development fund started by Best Buy last year, offers product reviews and specifications, gadget pictures and pricing information, all of which shoppers can access on their mobile devices while they're out shopping. MocoNews.net (9/22)

§                       Report: U.S. virtual goods market growing
Despite some skepticism about America's appetite for purchasing digital trinkets in games and on the Internet, the "virtual goods" market is growing at a healthy clip, according to a recently released industry report. CNN (9/29)

§                       Jetson-style smart homes no longer just a dream
Owning a smart home that automatically controls lighting, digital art and security is no longer the prerogative of only the “rich and famous,” for smart technology is being adopted by an increasing number of non–celebrities for safety, comfort and convenience. TMCnet (9/24)

§                       Smartphones and broadband are making our homes smarter
Consumers can take advantage of smartphones and mobile broadband to create their own smart homes for much less. As an example, consumers can purchase a $200 thermostat and a smart light switch to start adding intelligence to their homes, and install these products easily and in a matter of minutes. GigaOm (9/28)

§                       Smart home technology conserves resources, increases convenience
Smart homes rely on networking, programming and automation to connect all the devices and appliances in your home so they can communicate with each other and with you. With a smart home, you can control just about any element of daily living. Systems can turn on your coffee maker in the morning, adjust the temperature of your heated pool or control the time your landscape lighting goes on at night. RealEstateRama (9/21)

§                       Video: Monster Cable previews new 3-D glasses, HDMI cable at CEDIA 2010
Monster Cable provides an overview of their latest innovations, including new HDMI cables, as well as a first look at their Universal 3D Glasses. YouTube (9/24)

§                       Sling founder brings android to home automation
For the past 18 months, Blake Krikorian, founder of Sling Media, has been working on an Android-centric home-control interface as part of an extensive home remodel project. Specifically, Krikorian has developed an Android app for Crestron, the home control system that powers his own house. Codenamed R2, the solution was demonstrated at the Crestron booth at CEDIA Expo. CEPro.com (9/22)

§                       CEDIA honors Lutron’s Joel Spira with lifetime achievement award
The Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA) has named Joel Spira, founder of lighting control manufacturer Lutron Electronics Co., Inc., the recipient of its 2010 Lifetime Achievement Award. Business Wire (9/28)

Click here for CABA's Industry Events Update

Large Building Automation

§                       Video: Montage of Microsoft's future office vision
How will emerging technology improve our productivity in the years ahead? What opportunities will arise from evolving trends and global change? Microsoft has collaborated with customers, partners, and thought leaders across multiple disciplines to develop scenarios that explore how long-term trends, customer challenges, and emerging technologies might converge to improve our lives, both at work and home. OfficeLabs (9/29)

§                       Building owners a driving force in green design, retrofitting
Smarter, sustainable design is increasingly being driven by building owners, not just architects and engineers. Green buildings command premium tenants and premium leases. They cost less to operate and, over their lifecycle, deliver a better return on investment, said Diana Osler-Zortea, president of the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) of Canada. Journal of Commerce (9/29)

§                       Schneider Electric recognized by Cisco as U.S. video surveillance provider
This certification shows Schneider Electric’s commitment to use the network as a platform upon which more collaborative and integrated physical-security systems can be built – enabling higher levels of situational awareness in environments where intelligent and timely decision-making is crucial. Schneider Electric (9/29)

§                       Cisco, Duke plan to link North Carolina buildings to smart grid
Cisco Systems Inc. and Duke Energy Corp. plan to link office towers such as the Bank of America Corp. headquarters in Charlotte, North Carolina, to a so-called smart grid to cut energy use. Cisco, the largest maker of networking systems, will pay 20 percent of the estimated $5.3 million project cost, the companies and former U.S. President Bill Clinton said today in a statement from the Clinton Global Initiative in New York. The companies aim to cut energy use in the buildings by 20 percent in five years. Bloomberg (9/13)

§                       Honeywell teams with Tridium to enhance security management
Honeywell recently announced that its Pro-Watch security management software is now leveraging the Niagara AX Framework from Tridium, an open software platform that enables the integration and interoperability of building automation systems for real-time monitoring and control of security, secondary fire and other applications. Tridium (9/28)

§                       ILLUMRA LED dimmer wins best control award at LED Show
ILLUMRA, the supplier of self-powered, battery-free, wireless lighting and HVAC controls in North America has won "Best Dimming or Control" at The LED Show in Las Vegas. A panel of LED experts reviewed the dimmer and announced the award on August 27, 2010. The constant voltage dimmer is available in a wireless or wired configuration that responds to hardwired or wireless battery-free controls to adjust the brightness of LED fixtures. Lighting & Sound America (9/28)

§                       Opinion: Microsoft partnering to lead utilities into the smart grid cloud
Jess Berst of SmartGridNews.com believes the "Utility of the Future" will need access to a wide selection of applications from a wide selection of solution providers. Here Microsoft has a great advantage with its emphasis on a smart energy ecosystem and its global network of partners. SmartGridNews.com (9/28)

§                       NTIA makes final broadband stimulus awards
Every U.S. state and territory, as well as the District of Columbia, won broadband stimulus funding this week when the National Telecommunications and Information Administration made 56 awards totaling $190 million in the State Broadband Data and Development (SBDD) grant program. Telecompetitor (9/28)

§                       Interview with Verizon's Mark Hahn
Mark Hahn is Principal Member of Technical Staff at Verizon, USA. Mark gave Broadband World Forum 2010 his view on how the broadband industry has changed over the past 12 months, his take on future-proof technologies, the technological challenges anticipated as media delivery migrates to IP networks as well as the current trends and future growth areas for the broadband industry over the next few years. Broadband World Forum 2010 (9/28)

§                       Lighting Science Group receives first ENERGY STAR label for LED bulb
Lighting Science Group has received the industry’s first ENERGY STAR label for an LED light bulb following rigorous government performance testing. The approved LED bulb is 80% more efficient than the 75 watt incandescent halogen bulb it replaces, has approximately 50 percent more lumens (light output) than competing products, and is fully dimmable. ECN (9/28)

§                       Nominations open for U.K. BCIA Awards
The Building Controls Industry Association are now calling for nominations for the 2011 BCIA Awards. The 2011 BCIA Awards have been re-packaged and re-launched to bring together the entire building controls industry in a celebration of the companies, innovations and people that are achieving the highest standards and driving this dynamic industry forward. BCIA Awards (9/28)

§                       iiSBE launches Synergy Grid research project
The International Initiative for a Sustainable Built Environment (iiSBE) has launched a working group to develop a Synergy Grids concept, an extension of Smart Grids that includes neighborhood-scale optimization of supply, demand and storage of DC power, thermal energy, greywater and solid waste as well as the integration of local public transport. For further info, contact larsson@iisbe.org, or see www.iisbe.org. IISBE (9/16)

§                       Free research paper from Intelligent Buildings International
This paper, titled “Influence of hot arid climate on the use of outdoor urban spaces and thermal comfort: Do cultural and social backgrounds matter?”, aims to develop a better understanding of the complex relationship between the microclimate and human behaviour in open public spaces in hot arid climates. It was published in the journal Intelligent Buildings International. Intelligent Buildings International (9/20)

§                       New tool measures how ICT can reduce GHG emissions
The information and communication technologies (ICT) sector recently released a methodology to measure how new initiatives and technologies, such as smart buildings or videoconferencing systems, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions. GreenBiz.com (9/28)

§                       GE adopts Advanced Telemetry's residential energy management system
Advanced Telemetry, developer of the EcoView™ smart energy management system for light commercial and residential applications, recently announced that General Electric Co. has adopted its "EcoView Residential" solution for select energy conscious home builders across North America. Constructech (9/16)

§                       CGS launches Just Smart Green
Consolidated Green Services (CGS) has created a new platform for education and advocacy in the intelligent, green building industry with the launch of their new business unit called Just Smart Green. This division will serve as a virtual on-line community for education, information, and collaboration on energy management and sustainability solutions. Just Smart Green (9/29)

§                       BIM a ‘growing factor’ in how U.S. contractors do business
Building information modeling (BIM) is becoming “a growing factor” in how contractors do business in the U.S. construction market, says the president of the Mechanical Contractors Association of America (MCAA). Journal of Commerce (9/29)

§                       N.J. firm is perfecting building materials with embedded solar cells
The next generation of solar power may not rely on free-standing panels. New Jersey-based Applied Photovoltaics is gearing up to manufacture prefabricated building materials with embedded solar cells. Recently, Energy Secretary Steven Chu and Rep. Rush Holt, D-N.J., stopped by the Hopewell Township plant for a look at the company's breakthrough. The Times (Trenton, N.J.) (9/27)

§                       $2.75 billion to be spent on smart grid in 2010, report says
As companies small and large jostle for position in the rapidly growing smart grid market, more than $2.75 billion will be spent on core technologies for the sector in 2010, according to The Cleantech Group’s 2010 U.S. Smart Grid Vendor Ecosystem report. SmartPlanet.com (9/28)

§                       U.Va. researchers land $2 million grant for 'smart building' energy systems
A multidisciplinary team of researchers at the University of Virginia has been awarded a four-year, $2 million grant from the National Science Foundation to develop "smart building" energy systems for residential and commercial buildings. UVAToday (9/23)

§                       World's first "earthquake-proof" building unveiled
The world's first "earthquake proof building" will be completed on September 29 in Japan. The Obayashi Corporation's Technical Research Institute's new main building in Kiyose City, Tokyo will incorporate the "super active vibration control system" that can reduce building tremors to one fiftieth the intensity of ground tremors during an earthquake. The Denki Shimbun (9/28)

Member Press Releases

§                       FieldServer Technologies Gateway aboard Latest U.S. Navy Advanced-Tech Destroyer
FieldServer Technologies’ Gateway will be serving aboard the new Zumwalt-class destroyer (DDG-1000), the latest design in U.S. Navy craft with advanced-technology, multi-mission capability. The Zumwalt-class is designed to operate seamlessly with other naval, ground and land-based air forces in accordance with the Navy’s “Network-Centric Warfare” concept of operations for the 21st century.

§                       Other Items

MatrikonOPC maximizes security and interoperability in building automation with OPC Server for LonWorks
MatrikonOPC offers Universal Connectivity for Vendors and OEMs
SAVANT Desktop and In-wall iPad Docks Mark the Beginning of a New Era in Affordable Touch Panel Solutions
New Powerlink® EM Lighting Control System from Schneider Electric Incorporates Smart Metering Technology
Yoga chosen to be a partner of VTT, the leading technical research centre of Northern Europe
Global Caché Products Now Control4 Certified
FieldServer Technologies provides communication at South Africa World Cup
FieldServer Technologies Partners with AMX for Next-Generation Building Management Solutions

CABA members can post their media releases by logging into the CABA Web site.

CABA Research Spotlight

§                       LEED In Healthcare
This paper explains how hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics can implement energy conservation and achieve LEED certification (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) even though LEED was developed for office buildings. Methods for water savings are presented, emphasizing substitutes for potable water in laboratory and cooling applications. Some LEED standards such as indoor-air-quality and temperature control are generally in-place in healthcare facilities. The U.S. Green Building Council is preparing "The LEED Application Guide for Healthcare." Read the full report as published in CABA's Public Research Library. Paid CABA membership provides you access to the full CABA Member Research Library.

Education & Training

§                       Webinar: Fired Up about the Fire Detection Business
In this informative webinar, to be held October 19 from 1 p.m. – 2 p.m. by the Electronic Security Association, you’ll learn about the code changes and the training and certification that can help you expand your fire detection system business.

§                       Event: The Next Generation Enterprise
Oracle and Panduit invite you to mark your calendar for October 26 and 28, and attend a two day interactive customer showcase featuring Panduit! This showcase event will feature a variety of keynotes delivered by Panduit, Oracle and industry thought leaders in addition to breakout sessions, demo grounds, UPI Pavilion and facility tours of Panduit's corporate headquarters. To register for this FREE event call 1.800.820.5592 and ask for ext. 7917.

§                       Smart Energy Expo
Smart Energy Expo is BUILDINGS Magazine's first virtual event and ongoing resource base for learning profitable ideas for smarter, more energy efficient buildings. The Expo will be held online on November 9, 2010 at 11:00 am ET. This free event is on BUILDINGS Magazine's new BUILDINGSVIP Web site – an online community for commercial building owners, developers and facilities management professionals.

§                       Event: Demand Response: Transitioning to Demand/Supply Optimization (Canada)
CABA members receive 15% off registration. Use promo code CABA15 to take advantage of this offer! New demand response technologies are enabling utilities and their customers to manage consumption in ways that are dramatically evolving from traditional electricity production and usage. What does this demand response (DR) and overall demand side management (DSM) push mean to utilities and their customers? In addition to technology, what other pricing and policy issues must come together to create a unified demand response solution? One aspect is certain – to effectively take shape, all of these elements will have to work together to shift and reduce usage. The goal of this program is to share cutting edge ideas, potential solutions, as well as challenges on the horizon in this critical effort to revolutionize Canada’s energy portfolio.

§                       Event: Demand Response Optimization: Strategies in Pricing, Policy, Technology and Customer Adoption (U.S.)
CABA members receive 15% off registration. Use promo code CABA15 to take advantage of this offer! The advent of AMI and the Smart Grid are pushing the envelope and enabling customers/utilities to manage consumption in ways that are dramatically evolving from traditional electricity production and usage. What does this mean to utilities and their customers? In addition to technology, what other pricing and policy issues must come together to create a unified demand response solution? One aspect is certain – to effectively take shape, all of these elements will have to work together to shift and reduce usage. Hear first hand experiences from the utilities in the U.S., how the technology and pricing pilots are being designed and executed, how some are using DR as a virtual power plant, and how residential load management programs are being executed. The conference will also address which policies promote the development of DSM and how to optimize the true value proposition. Last but not least the event will evaluate strategies in educating, engaging, and empowering the customer.

CABA News

§                       Video: CABA President & CEO at Digital Home Summit 2010
During the 2010 Digital Home Summit, CABA President & CEO Ronald J. Zimmer, shared insights about the organization's Connected Home Roadmap initiative and how the smart grid would come into play in home area networks of the future.

§                       Best Buy Joins CABA Board of Directors
CABA is pleased to announce that electronics retailer Best Buy Co., Inc. has joined the CABA Board of Directors. Kris Bowring, Senior Director, Platform Lead, New Business Customer Solutions Group, will represent Best Buy.

§                       Stephane Kirkland from Direct Energy Business appointed to CABA Board
Direct Energy Business and the Continental Automated Buildings Association are pleased to announce the appointment of Stephane Kirkland from Direct Energy Business to the CABA Board of Directors.

Decisive Media Is Online TV Media Partner for 'TIA 2011: Inside the Network'

Decisive Media to Produce a Digital Marketplace for TIA Event, Tapping the Latest Technologies to Enhance the Live Event With Online Conference, Exhibition and Business Networking

Arlington, Va. – The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) is working with Decisive Media to host a Digital Marketplace for TIA 2011: Inside the Network, the premier annual event for the information and communications technology industry. The live event – including a Summit and Exhibition – is taking place May 17 – 20, 2011 at the Gaylord Texan Hotel near Dallas, Texas.

The Digital Marketplace will use Decisive Media's online tools to enable marketing, business networking and educational activities supporting the live event. Online exhibiting through the Digital Marketplace begins in April 2011 and runs through June.

TIA 2011: Inside the Network addresses this changing business landscape with new thinking, new approaches to content monetization, and new frameworks for partnerships that will help lead the broadband communications industry to meet the needs of customers of all kinds with One Network -- secure, reliable, scalable and sustainable.

Decisive Media, the pioneering company which owns and operates TelecomTV, is the official online TV media partner for the event. The company has a proven track record of bringing industry events to online audiences through the latest digital media technology.

"Innovation has always been the key driver of the ICT industry," said TIA President Grant Seiffert. "As the network ecosystem evolves and grows, the advances in communications that TIA member companies have brought to the market give us new opportunities for online exhibiting and interaction, enhancing and extending the presence of industry events. Decisive Media has been at the forefront of innovation in digital media, and we look forward to working with them on the Digital Marketplace to provide what we view as the prototype for online industry events."

"TIA has recognized that the ICT sector is looking for an approach to industry events that is more indicative of the innovation it delivers," said Sean Carr, CEO of Decisive Media. "Obviously we are delighted that TIA has chosen to partner with us to help deliver the content from the event in a way that will allow the rest of the industry - that cannot attend the live experience - to participate virtually on Decisive Media's social media platforms."

TIA and Decisive Media have been working together on other projects as part of TIA's digital media presence.

• To learn more about TIA 2011: Inside the Network, go to http://www.tia2011.org/
• To learn about exhibiting or sponsorship opportunities, please contact TIA at exhibits@tiaonline.org, or call +1.703.907.7002
• To review conference tracks/topics, guidelines, evaluation criteria and other important facts regarding speaking opportunities, go to http://www.tia2011.org/speakers.htm (Deadline Nov. 15)
• For media barters contact Jeff Hannah at jhannah@tiaonline.org, or call +1.703.907.7582

About TIA
The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) represents the global information and communications technology (ICT) industry through standards development, advocacy, tradeshows, business opportunities, market intelligence and world-wide environmental regulatory analysis. Since 1924, TIA has been enhancing the business environment for broadband, mobile wireless, information technology, networks, cable, satellite and unified communications. Members' products and services empower communications in every industry and market, including healthcare, education, security, public safety, transportation, government, the military, the environment and entertainment.

TIA is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Visit tiaonline.org.

TIA's Board of Directors includes senior-level executives from ADTRAN, Alcatel-Lucent, ANDA Networks, AttivaCorp, Cisco Systems, Ericsson, Inc., GENBAND, Inc., Henkels & McCoy, ILS Technology, Intel Corporation, Intersect, Inc., LGE, Microsoft, Motorola, Nokia Siemens Networks, OneChip Photonics, Openwave, Inc., Panasonic Computer Solutions Co., Powerwave Technologies, Qualcomm, Research In Motion, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave Corporation, Tellabs, Tyco Electronics, Ulticom, Inc., Walker & Associates and WirefreeCom, Inc. Advisors to the Board include FAL Associates and Telcordia Technologies.

Draka Communications Americas Announces New Ruggedized Indoor-Outdoor Cable Products for Transit Applications

Claremont, North Carolina, (NYSE EURONEXT: DRAKA) – Draka Communications – Americas, one of the leading North American producers of fiber optic cable, announces the release of two new optical fiber cable products for use in transit applications.

Draka ezPREP® Indoor-Outdoor Gel-Free Low-Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) cables, are now available in two heavy-duty designs, and will provide more robust cable solutions to address particularly challenging mass transit applications, such as tunnels. Both cable designs utilize Draka's extensive single-mode and multimode optical fiber portfolio including BendBright®, Draka's highly desired bend-insensitive fiber. The new dual-jacket non-armored design is capable of sustaining a 1000lbf tensile load which is more than 60% improvement over standard products.

Draka is also releasing an LSZH cable incorporating corrugated steel tape armor which provides greater compressive loading resistance, as well as rodent protection for direct buried applications or other harsh environments. The gel-free cable construction has been proven to save time and reduce installation costs. Both of these cables meet the flame requirements of Type OFNG cable in accordance with NEC Article 770 and comply with the FT4 flame testing per CSA. "These versatile indoor-outdoor cable designs are ideal for confined spaces where reduction of smoke and hazardous emissions are primary safety concerns", states Dean Yamasaki, Manager of Applications & Technology at Draka Communications Americas.

About Draka
Draka (Euronext Amsterdam: DRAK), headquartered in Amsterdam, has 9,400 employees in countries worldwide and 2009 revenues of over € 2 billion. Draka has a presence in 31 countries in Europe, North and South America, Asia and Australia.

Draka's activities are divided into three groups: Energy & Infrastructure, Industry & Specialty and Communications. Draka Communications with its four business units, Telecom Solutions, Multimedia Specials, Optical Fiber and Cable Solutions is a global market leader in the development, production and sales of fibers, cables and advanced network solutions. For more information visit us online at www.draka.com/communications.

-----
Draka Communications Americas Media Contact
Tina Bryant, Marketing Communications Manager
Phone: 828.459.8772
tina.bryant@draka.com

Electec announces cCSAus International Certifications for North American market

ELECTEC Ltd., a Canadian innovator of Manufactured Wiring Systems is proud to announce cCSAus Certification for EZ-Wiring® D-Series (4-wire) and H-Series (8-wire) components. 

Meeting the requirements of CSA Standard 22.2 No.203.1 and UL Standard 183 (QQVX), EZ-Wiring represents the next generation of modular wiring with its eco-friendly construction and a smart, reusable system design.

More than ever, engineers and building owners are searching for cost-effective, sustainable alternatives that deliver added value to their properties.  Electec EZ-Wiring achieves this in the following ways –

                   Accelerating installation time of building wire and electrical equipment by up to 80% and reducing installed costs by up to 40%. 

                   Enabling rapid relocation and re-use of building wire delivering further cost and time savings to users.

                   Virtually eliminating downtime as a result of building wire maintenance (moves, adds, changes), delivering further cost and time savings and convenience to users.

Built with RoHS-compliant and low-smoke, zero-halogen (LSZH) materials, EZ-Wiring is a GreenSpec™ Listed (www.buildinggreen.com) modular wiring system.

For further information contact Chris Pezoulas, VP Business Development at 613-836-0300 x226 or click www.electeconline.com

About Electec
A leading-edge manufacturer of modular wiring systems (MWS), Electec is the only GreenSpec™ listed manufacturer of modular wiring systems for branch circuit and voice/data applications.  Electec manufactured wiring systems are industry proven with hundreds of installations across North America.

Register now for the 2011 BICSI Winter Conference & Exhibition!

This January, Orlando, Florida, is the place to be for more than 20 first-rate educational sessions, networking opportunities and top-notch exhibits at the 2011 BICSI Winter Conference & Exhibition! BICSI is pleased to announce that registration is now available for the conference. Conference attendees will be able to enjoy:

·         more than 20 educational sessions         

·         a large Exhibit Hall

·         the BICSI Cabling Skills Challenge         

·         E³—Enhanced Education & Exhibits

·         the BICSI Annual Awards Banquet          

·         ...and more!

A full schedule of events and education can be found here.

Here's a taste of what we've got planned during the Winter Conference:

Opening Keynote Speaker: Tom Koulopoulos

Closing Keynote Speaker: Steve Wozniak

Hotel information is also posted on the conference site. Make sure you Book It 2 Win It! Book your room at the Rosen by December 8 to receive the $199/night group rate and be entered to win fantastic prizes. Click here for more information, including a list of prizes, and to make your hotel reservations.

Maximize your travel investment by also registering for one of BICSI's many courses scheduled before or after the Winter Conference in Orlando. Click here for details.

More conference updates are being posted regularly, so keep checking back for the latest news. The 2011 BICSI Winter Conference & Exhibition offers world-class education, exhibits and networking, along with a group of fantastic special events and presentations you won't want to miss. Register today! We look forward to seeing you in Orlando!

For further information contact Chris Pezoulas, VP Business Development at 613-836-0300 x226 or click www.electeconline.com

About Electec
A leading-edge manufacturer of modular wiring systems (MWS), Electec is the only GreenSpec™ listed manufacturer of modular wiring systems for branch circuit and voice/data applications.  Electec manufactured wiring systems are industry proven with hundreds of installations across North America.

Extech Once Again to Stream Live Video at 2010 NECA Convention & Trade Show

(Boston, MA, USA) Extech Instruments (www.extech.com/instruments), makers of the best handheld test and measurement tools, will once again be streaming live video from the Extech booth #938 at the 2010 NECA Convention and Trade Show, held October 2-5, 2010, at the Boston Convention & Exposition Center, 415 Summer Street Boston, MA. Live video will be streamed at www.PlanetExtech.com, the fastest-growing social networking website for test equipment users and fans.

Extech will be exhibiting an array of innovative multimeters, clamp-on meters, and other electrical testers and meters at the electrical industry’s biggest annual trade event. Following the success of our live broadcast at the 2009 NECA show in Seattle, our live booth cam will once again be transmitting live via UStream onto www.PlanetExtech.com.

Show-goers are invited to visit booth 938 to enter a variety of giveaway contests throughout the event including an Apple iPad, and Extech’s popular BR200 wireless video borescope inspection cameras, electrical test kits, and electrical testers. During the event, Extech customers will also be able to share their Extech switch stories via live video.

Showstopper Showcase
In addition, as part of 2010 NECA’s Showstopper Showcase, Extech will be featuring its award-winning EX540 wireless datalogging multimeter. The Showstopper Showcase recognizes the latest and greatest in electrical product innovations. Attendees can see the EX540 and other products on display in the Showstopper Showcase during the 2010 NECA Show. Now combined with the NECA New & Featured Products, attendees are encouraged to stop in and see ground-breaking products like Extech’s innovative wireless datalogging multimeter designed to help electrical contractors on the job.

To learn more about 2010 NECA Convention and Trade Show, visit http://www.necaconvention.org/ To watch the live video, visit www.planetextech.com during trade show hours.

About Extech Instruments

Extech Instruments is recognized as the source for the best handheld test and measurement tools worldwide. Founded in 1971, Extech is known for its depth and breadth of innovative testers and meters suited for electrical, HVAC, building/restoration, as well as a host of environmental testers for measurement of sound, light, humidity and other factors. All Extech meters are distributed worldwide through leading representatives, distributors and OEMs. The company is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, USA and is ISO 9001 2000 certified. Extech is a wholly owned subsidiary of FLIR Systems, Inc.

Coleman Cable Names Howard Strauss as Vice President of Wire & Cable Distribution

WAUKEGAN, Ill. (October 1, 2010) – Coleman Cable Inc. (Nasdaq: CCIX) announces Howard Strauss has joined our company as Vice President, Wire & Cable Distribution.  Howard will be leading our efforts in the Wire & Cable and the Security Home Technology business units. Howard will be responsible for all facets of these businesses to drive growth though new products, increase market share and aid in achieving our corporate objectives.

“Howard is an excellent addition to the Coleman Cable team which will strengthen our industrial and security group for the challenges ahead,” said Ken McAllister, Coleman Cable Executive Vice President, Distribution Group.  “His wealth of product and market knowledge will play a major role in expanding our industrial market presence.”

Howard has over twenty-five years of industrial and low voltage product experience along with a proven track record of success with key leadership qualities at Lake Cable, Genesis Cable, Houston Wire and Cable and is returning to Coleman Cable where he held various positions in sales, marketing and business development.

About Coleman Cable Inc.

Coleman Cable, Inc. is a leading manufacturer and innovator of electrical and electronic wire and cable products for the security, sound, telecommunications, electrical, commercial, industrial, and automotive industries. With extensive design and production capabilities and a long-standing dedication to customer service, Coleman Cable, Inc. is the preferred choice of cable and wire users throughout the United States. The company is located at 1530 Shields Drive, Waukegan, IL 60085.  For more information, visit: www.colemancable.com

KITCO Fiber Optics Again Named to “Top 100” Military Training Technology List

KITCO Fiber Optics has been named for the fifth consecutive year to the Military Training Technology “Top 100” List.  The list is compiled by Kerrigan Media International and Military Training Technology magazine from companies around the world that have made a significant impact on the military training industry.  An impartial panel selected the winners based on various criteria including total military sales, innovation and program effectiveness.

KITCO Fiber Optics is a leading provider of fiber optic connectorization products, training and consulting services to the military and commercial communications industry.  We specialize in the design and fabrication of fiber optic tools, tool kits and custom cable assemblies; producing private label kits for a number of major connector manufacturers and selling our own broad line of commercial and military products.  We develop curriculum and provide commercial and military training worldwide, and serve as the U.S. Navy’s sole shipboard fiber optic trainer.  Our highly skilled field services team can respond to your fiber optic requirements anytime, anywhere – rapidly providing the best solutions for overcoming system problems or delays.

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Cathy Dunn, RCDD

Business Development Manager

KITCO Fiber Optics

5269 Cleveland Street

Virginia Beach, VA 23462

Direct Line: 757-216-2205

Fax: 757-518-9700

Cell: 757-589-7289

cathy.dunn@kitcofo.com

www.kitcofo.com

Mike Holt's Code Forum - September 2010 - Top 30 New Topics

Another great resource from Mike Holt Enterprises! The following is a list of the top 30 topics discussed on our code forum in the past month. Simply click on any topic that interests you to read or join in the discussion. If you’re not already registered as a code forum member,click here to sign up now!

• 1: Romex switch legs with 103 replies in the NEC forum
• 2: Legal or not? Spot The Violation, Monday Edition. with 82 replies in the NEC forum
• 3: sub panel in attic with 77 replies in the NEC forum
• 4: Wind Turbine Voltages? with 71 replies in the Electrical Contracting and Estimating/Management forum
• 5: 25 amp breaker for # 10 wire with 67 replies in the NEC forum
• 6: laundry 20 a circuit with 59 replies in the NEC forum
• 7: This looks... exciting. with 59 replies in the Safety forum
• 8: 2011 Code Changes- Post your favorite and Discuss them with 58 replies in the NEC forum
• 9: Hot tub diconnect location with 57 replies in the NEC forum
• 10: Feeder Tap Leaves Panel Out to Disconnect. I say violation. with 55 replies in the NEC forum
• 11: 3 Year NEC Cycle Too Often? with 55 replies in the NEC forum
• 12: Feeder circuit for electric heaters with 54 replies in the Electrical Calculations/Engineering forum
• 13: Compliant? You make the call with 54 replies in the NEC forum
• 14: Heat Pump Failure (who's fault?) with 53 replies in the Electrical Calculations/Engineering forum
• 15: Little Romex Question with 52 replies in the NEC forum
• 16: computer loads and a stickler Inspector with 50 replies in the NEC forum
• 17: How far will a Fluke Ohm meter read? with 49 replies in the Electrical Calculations/Engineering forum
• 18: ser vs seu? with 47 replies in the Grounding versus Bonding forum
• 19: High Leg Dryer with 47 replies in the NEC forum
• 20: bath gfci with 46 replies in the NEC forum
• 21: Minimum Size Grounded Conductor for a Branch Circuit with 45 replies in the NEC forum
• 22: Solar Panels on residential Homes with 45 replies in the Electrical Calculations/Engineering forum
• 23: 3 phase wiring question with 44 replies in the NEC forum
• 24: Problem with GFCI breaker on transformer with 42 replies in the Electrical Calculations/Engineering forum
• 25: Dedicated circuit for domestic refrigerator with 42 replies in the NEC forum
• 26: Shared well setup legal under 225.30? with 41 replies in the NEC forum
• 27: shuting down a business with 41 replies in the Electrical Contracting and Estimating/Management forum
• 28: any subsitute for greenfield ?? with 40 replies in the Electrical Contracting and Estimating/Management forum
• 29: Commercial Bathroom Requirements with 40 replies in the NEC forum
• 30: wire scrap with 38 replies in the Electrical Contracting and Estimating/Management forum

The Fiber Optic Association, Inc. Newsletter

Monthly News From The FOA
September, 2010

The Latest Issue Of The FOA Newsletter Is Now Online.
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In This Issue

Wired Towns Edge Out Big Cities
Who's Beating Google and Verizon to Gigabit FTTH Speeds?
New FOA OSP Certification
Corning Hosts FOA Instructors For Training
FOA @ IBEW Training Institute
And a large number of technical questions we received this month!
 
September has been another busy month at the FOA. We have released our new OSP certification, CFospT, and created an online Study Guide that uses the website on OSP fiber optics on our Online Reference Guide to complement our new OSP textbook. You can study online or take a class from many FOA-Approved schools to receive your OSP certification.

Many of you may not know that you can come directly to the FOA for certification if you already have field experience in fiber. If you already have a CFOT, adding a CPCT for premises cabling or CFospT for outside plant fiber is possible with some self-study. You can also qualify for the specialist certifications. See the web page on FOA certifications.

We have published more eBooks, with all three of the FOA reference guides available on the Kindle and momentarily as iBooks from Apple. Expect some iPad apps from the FOA soon.

We also added a number of videos to the YouTube channel for the FOA including ones on cable preparation terminations, testing and fusion splicing.
 
Plus several job opportunities in this month's newsletter.

Go To The FOA Newsletter

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New FOA "Jobs" Website
http://www.thefoa.org/jobs/jobs.html)

 
Don't forget the free online self-study program on Fiber U.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Quick Links...

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FOA Website: www.thefoa.org

FOA Online Newsletter
FOA Online Fiber Optic Reference Guide
Tech Bulletins

Contact Information

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Fiber Optic Association, Inc. | 1119 S Mission Road #355 | Fallbrook | CA | 92028

phone: 760-451-3655  

FOA Website: www.thefoa.org

BICSI ANNOUNCES THE FIRST SUCCESSFUL RITP CANDIDATES

Tampa, Fla., Oct. 5, 2010—BICSI, the association supporting the information technology systems (ITS) industry with information, education and knowledge assessment, is pleased to announce the first successful candidates of the BICSI Registered Information Technology Professional (RITP^TM) exam.

BICSI would like to extend congratulations to Dennis Garraty of Ocala, Fla., for attaining the RITP designation. Garraty was the first applicant to pass the newly released RITP exam. Garraty is also a BICSI-credentialed Technician and currently works for Marion County Information Technology. He has been active in the industry for nine years and holds many other industry certifications through organizations such as, but not limited to, Cisco, CompTIA, and Microsoft.

Following Garraty, two others have also been successful obtaining the credential—bringing the total amount of RITPs to three. Congratulations to John Fitzpatrick, RITP, and Jeff Silveira, RITP, AStd. Silveira is a BICSI staff member and currently holds the position of BICSI Director of Standards.

The RITP designation was created for individuals who work in the ITS industry but do not design ITS systems or have limited design experience including instructors, educators, project managers and sales personnel. “This is an exciting time within BICSI in that we have successfully launched the RITP, which is our newest credential,” stated Brian Hansen, RCDD, NTS, CSI, BICSI President. “This is an initiative that came from our NxtGEN Committee to the Board and one that we have embraced. The RITP is a professional designation for those key stakeholders within BICSI that have great knowledge of the ITS industry, but lack the design experience. We wish to congratulate those listed above who have successfully passed and received our newest credential!”

The RITP exam consists of 150 questions drawn from the BICSI Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual (TDMM). The format of the RITP exam is closed-book, multiple choice and true/false questions. To qualify for the RITP credential, applicants are required to have a minimum of two years of ITS industry-related experience. Applicants also need either to have graduated with an Associate of Science, Bachelor of Science, or Master of Science degree in an approved technical field of study or have achieved two or more approved industry certifications. Applicants must also have successfully passed the BICSI ITS Design Fundamentals examination through BICSI CONNECT.

Additional information about the RITP credential can be found at www.bicsi.org/ritp.

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BICSI is a professional association supporting the information technology systems (ITS) industry. ITS covers the spectrum of voice, data, electronic safety & security, and audio & video technologies. It encompasses the design, integration and installation of pathways, spaces, fiber- and copper-based distribution systems, wireless-based systems and infrastructure that supports the transportation of information and associated signaling between and among communications and information gathering devices.

BICSI provides information, education and knowledge assessment for individuals and companies in the ITS industry. We serve more than 23,000 ITS professionals, including designers, installers and technicians. These individuals provide the fundamental infrastructure for telecommunications, audio/video, life safety and automation systems. Through courses, conferences, publications and professional registration programs, BICSI staff and volunteers assist ITS professionals in delivering critical products and services, and offer opportunities for continual improvement and enhanced professional stature.

Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, USA, BICSI membership spans nearly 90 countries. For more information, visit www.bicsi.org.

BICSI MEMBERS ELECT NEW OFFICERS

Tampa, Fla., October 6, 2010— BICSI, the association supporting the information technology systems (ITS) industry with information, education and knowledge assessment, has completed the 2010 Board of Directors Election as members have elected five board members to serve two-year terms. In voting that ended September 30, members have selected the following individuals:

SECRETARY: Christine Klauck, RCDD, NTS, JaffeHolden, Norwalk, Conn.
Klauck is a Senior Consultant, IT/Security with JaffeHolden, where she consults and designs structured cabling systems for voice, data, wireless and security. Klauck is currently serving as the incumbent Secretary on the Board of Directors and served two terms as U.S. Northeast Region Director from 2004 to 2008. She has been a BICSI member since 1992 and BICSI Cares committee member and Chair since 2006. Additionally, Klauck has participated on the Codes, Standards, Membership & Marketing and Technical Information & Methods committees.

CANADIAN REGION DIRECTOR: Peter Levoy, RCDD, Anixter Canada, Mississauga, Ontario
Levoy currently serves as the Vice President of Marketing for Anixter Canada. He joined BICSI in 1993 and since has served on the Standards Committee for two years and later joined the Membership & Marketing Committee where he served for two years. He has been an active BICSI Cares Committee member since 2004 and is currently Vice Chair. Levoy was the recipient of the Ross G.H. Cotton Canadian Region Award in May 2010.

U.S. SOUTH-CENTRAL REGION DIRECTOR: Paul Marek, RCDD, CCNA, AT&T, New Braunfels, Texas
Marek is a Technical Consultant for AT&T where he designs complex network solutions for large emerging market clients; assesses clients’ network requirements; and recommends design solutions. Marek has been an active BICSI member for more than 15 years. He actively promotes BICSI’s standards and best practices across the communications industry.

U.S. SOUTHEAST REGION DIRECTOR: Mel E. Lesperance, RCDD, Affiliated Engineers, Tampa, Fla.
Lesperance is the Senior Information Technology Consulting Engineer for Affiliated Engineers’ Gainesville and Tampa offices in Fla. As a BICSI member since 1987, he previously served as BICSI Treasurer from 2001 to 2003 and assumed the role of BICSI Interim Executive Director from 2003 to 2004. He currently serves on the Board as the incumbent U.S. Southeast Region Director. He has also been active on various BICSI committees through the years—including Standards, Publications, Nominating and Exhibitor Liaison.

U.S. WESTERN REGION DIRECTOR: Todd Strand, RCDD, NTS, OSP, On Target Voice and Data, Irvine, Cal.
Strand is a Senior Consultant for On Target Voice and Data where he designs and estimates small and large projects for voice and data applications. Strand currently sits on the Board as the incumbent U.S. Western Region Director and is actively involved with the Standards Committee on the Post Secondary Education Standard and the Codes Committee.

“I would like to say congratulations to all candidates! The Nominating Committee did a wonderful job of putting together a great slate of candidates for our membership to vote on,” stated Brian Hansen, RCDD, NTS, CSI, BICSI President. "We are anxious to get the new Board members up to speed in Board governance, which we will do in November.”

The new officers will officially be inaugurated in January 2011 during the BICSI Winter Conference & Exhibition at the Rosen Shingle Creek Resort in Orlando, Fla.

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BICSI is a professional association supporting the information technology systems (ITS) industry. ITS covers the spectrum of voice, data, electronic safety & security, and audio & video technologies. It encompasses the design, integration and installation of pathways, spaces, fiber- and copper-based distribution systems, wireless-based systems and infrastructure that supports the transportation of information and associated signaling between and among communications and information gathering devices.

BICSI provides information, education and knowledge assessment for individuals and companies in the ITS industry. We serve more than 23,000 ITS professionals, including designers, installers and technicians. These individuals provide the fundamental infrastructure for telecommunications, audio/video, life safety and automation systems. Through courses, conferences, publications and professional registration programs, BICSI staff and volunteers assist ITS professionals in delivering critical products and services, and offer opportunities for continual improvement and enhanced professional stature.

Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, USA, BICSI membership spans nearly 90 countries. For more information, visit www.bicsi.org.

Contact: Ashley Macaluso, amacaluso@bicsi.org, or Maarja Kolberg, mkolberg@bicsi.org, +1 813.979.1991

NJATC & Bluevolt Launch Enhanced Online Training Portal for NECA-IBEW Electrical Workers & Key Training Partners

Upper Marlboro, MD – The National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (NJATC), the training arm of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) and National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), has partnered with BlueVolt (www.BlueVolt.com), a technology company specializing in bringing online learning and marketing together, to enhance the organization’s online learning University.

NJATC’s new University is completely redesigned to support the latest technology proven to enhance and improve learning. Now, NJATC University learners can participate in high-quality training from any location at any time and view local training events and opportunities from key Training Partners like Klein Tools, IDEAL Industries, and Thomas & Betts; to name a few.

“The NJATC University (NJATCU) will become the “go-to” resource for Apprentices and Journeymen who have access,” said Michael Callanan, Executive Director for the NJATC. “In this economy, it’s important we take bold steps to lead the industry to new training heights and opportunities. The NJATCU enables our community to get the information they need, right when they need it. It is the future of training for the electrical industry.”

The NJATC University provides online training opportunities to local Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee (JATC) Training Directors, Instructors, Journeymen, Apprentices, and Training Partners.  It will most certainly assist them in gaining a competitive advantage in today’s marketplace. Courses include:  Significant Changes to the National Electrical Code (NEC), Compliance, Safety, and Product Training. Trainers can also author custom courses and post them to the University.

The NJATC University is fully integrated with BlueVolt’s Learning Management System (LMS) to provide unsurpassed learning and marketing capabilities including:

• A convenient calendar feature to help JATCs promote local training events, learners to view local and national training opportunities, and Training Partners to publicize training events.
• Blended learning features including trackable assessments, pre-assignments, learning aids and activity tracking.
• Social learning enhancements that integrate training with day-to-day activities such as: search functions, real-time collaboration, content syndication and integration with popular social media sites such as Facebook, Salesforce, LinkedIn and Twitter.
• Powerful reporting available on demand and via email.
• BlueVolt’s $BlueBucks^™ reward system, a virtual currency based on a flexible points-based program with a dollar-for-dollar redemption value accepted at hundreds of name-brand retailers in addition to course purchases.

“We are very proud of the new, revitalized NJATC University,” said Lisa Bordeaux, director of sales and business development for BlueVolt. “Although training and safety should always be top-of-mind for electrical workers; now, in particular, is a great time to brush up on skills and prepare for changes to the NEC. With technology continuing to advance, electrical workers cannot afford to fall behind.”

Significant Changes to the 2011 NEC Courses

Later this year, the NJATC University will feature a new course designed to address the major significant Code changes brought about by the 2011 National Electrical Code.

Key changes in the 2011 NEC are expected to incorporate green technologies and alternative energy. The course will feature Michael Johnston, Chair of the NEC Technical Correlating Committee, who will explain the reasoning behind some of the more “storied” significant changes.

Leading manufacturers are rushing to produce online training for new products that help electrical workers and contractors comply with the new Code change requirements.  These manufacturer courses will also be available through the NJATC University.

“Our new online University supports in-person learning experiences with online learning tools that are easy to create and administer,” said Michael Callanan. “Offering online training and continuing education options are a real benefit to our members; allowing them to enhance their safety preparedness and establish a more competitive edge in the marketplace.”

The new NJATC University also offers free web-hosting services to local IBEW/NECA JATC Programs looking to establish or improve their online presence.

For more information about the new, improved NJATC University visit www.njatcu.com

About BlueVolt

Portland, Oregon-based BlueVolt connects and advances participants in industries through its leading online Learning + Marketing Platform, its comprehensive, quality learning catalog, and its talented professional services team. Platform participants include manufacturers, associations, distributors, contractors, and skilled professionals in the electrical, plumbing, flooring, welding, and HVAC industries. The Platform enables online training and learning experiences including social/collaborative, blended, on-demand and live multi-camera webcast with enterprise-level functionality and performance. BlueVolt’s unique approach to training encourages learning with its proven reward program that is valuable to both content consumers and content sponsors. As of August 2010, BlueVolt delivered over 734,000 courses to over 95,000 registered users. For more information, visit www.BlueVolt.com.

About the NJATC

The NJATC is a nonprofit organization founded in 1941 by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW). The organization is committed to developing and standardizing education in the electrical industry to properly and effectively train members of NECA and the IBEW; providing the electrical construction industry with the most highly trained and skilled workforce possible. Since its inception, more than 325,000 apprentices have completed NJATC training programs and become competent Journeymen, making the organization one of the largest training and apprenticeship programs of its kind. For more information, go to www.njatc.org.

About National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA)

NECA is the voice of the $130 billion electrical construction industry that brings power, light, and communication technology to buildings and communities across the United States. NECA’s national office and 119 local chapters advance the industry through advocacy, education, research, and standards development. For more information, visit www.necanet.org.

About The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW)

The IBEW is an international labor organization that has trained the most qualified electricians in the trade for more than 117 years.  With approximately 725,000 members in the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam and the Republic of Panama, the IBEW has members in construction, utilities, manufacturing, telecommunications, broadcasting, railroads and government. For more information, visit www.ibew.org

IEC Chesapeake Implements Mike Holt Curriculum for 2010/2011 School Year

Maryland Apprenticeship Training Council (MATC) Approves New Program

On Tuesday, September 14, 2010, the Maryland Apprenticeship Training Council (MATC) approved IEC Chesapeake’s revised Apprenticeship Standards with significant changes to its four-year electrical apprenticeship program curriculum designed around Mike Holt Enterprises’ four-year apprenticeship curriculum.  This four-year apprenticeship curriculum has also been approved in Virginia by the Virginia Community College System (VCCS), as well as with the DC Apprenticeship Council.

IEC Chesapeake decided to implement Mike Holt’s four-year electrical apprenticeship curriculum for the 2010/2011 school year because of its clearly defined lesson plans and user-friendly format. Mr. John Ennis, Jr., IEC Chesapeake Apprenticeship & Training Committee Chair further elaborated on the review process as follows:

             “After an extensive and comprehensive review of several curricula, we collectively decided that Mike Holt’s program was the best curriculum for both the apprentices and the instructors.  It is our expectation that the partnership with Mike Holt Enterprises and IEC Chesapeake will continue to improve our apprenticeship program and provide the highest level of training available to our industry.”

Having said that, this transition is definitely a springboard to IEC Chesapeake’s “new and improved” electrical apprenticeship training program.  The following is Mr. Mike Holt’s response to the new partnership:

“We were honored to build a program with the IEC Chesapeake apprenticeship team. Our mission is to provide the finest training material to the Electrical industry.  When their apprenticeship team chose us as their educational partner we were impressed with their dedication to all of the details in making this transition a success.”

IEC Chesapeake recognizes the collective efforts of Mr. Mike Holt and company, as well as IEC Chesapeake’s Apprenticeship Committee, Instructors, and Staff for making the curriculum transition a success.  IEC Chesapeake looks forward to a long-term training relationship with Mike Holt Enterprises, Inc!

Garvin Industries unveils 14 “green” and labor-saving products featured at NECA 2010’s Showstopper Showcase

Franklin Park, IL – October 1, 2010 – Garvin Industries announced today that it will unveil 14 “green” and labor-saving products at NECA 2010’s Showstopper Showcase, including:

High-Output Compact Fluorescent Work Light – weighing only 4 lbs, this energy efficient 105 watt light fixture will “Green Up” jobsites with a huge 80% energy savings over traditional metal halide lights.

Glow-In-The-Dark  Zero-Energy Exit Sign – The ultimate “green” exit sign! This eco-friendly exit sign reduces overhead costs with zero energy consumption, zero maintenance and no disposal fees. It’s also non-radioactive and fully recyclable.

Universal Breaker Lock – a patented device that fits most manufacturer’s breakers, eliminating the need for manufacture-specific lock out devices.

Split-Collar Ground Bushing – installs before or after wire pull! Garvin’s unique design allows ground bushings to be installed without removing existing wires in the raceway. Save countless labor hours and ensure that power stays on while the grounding bushing is installed.

See all 14 Showstopper products here http://www.garvinindustries.com/neca-2010

Garvin Industries is a 120-year-old, family-owned manufacturer of electrical, low voltage and lighting products, specializing in the design & development of unique, innovative, and labor-saving solutions. For more information contact Garvin Industries at (847)455-0188 or info@garvinindustries.com. Visit online at www.GarvinIndustries.com.

Renowned Experts Gergen, Zell and Linneman Headline 2011 BOMA International Conference

(WASHINGTON—Oct. 12, 2010) The 2011 BOMA International Conference, the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International’s annual conference, June 26-28 in Washington, D.C., will feature world-renowned experts David Gergen, Sam Zell and Peter Linneman. Gergen, revered journalist and White House advisor, will present the Sunday keynote address, sponsored by Constellation Energy and AOBA Alliance, Inc. Real estate icon Sam Zell and world-class economist Dr. Peter Linneman will debate the state of commercial real estate in the U.S. and around the globe in a lively dialogue during the Monday General Session, sponsored by Yardi.

“David Gergen, Sam Zell and Dr. Peter Linneman together provide an unmatched level of talent, experience and insight, and perfectly embody this year’s conference theme, Leading the Future,” noted BOMA International Chair Ray H. Mackey, Jr., RPA, CPM, CCIM, partner and chief operating officer, Stream Realty Partners, L.P.  “Whether speaking about cap rates, the next presidential election, the debt markets or globalization, these experts will provide BOMA conference attendees an insider look at the forces shaping commercial real estate and the economy, both now and in the future.”

A White House adviser, journalist and teacher over the past 40 years, David Gergen worked in the administrations of Presidents Nixon and Ford and was director of communications for President Reagan. He also served as counselor to President Clinton on both foreign policy and domestic affairs. He is a senior political analyst for CNN, a professor of public service at the Harvard Kennedy School and the director of its Center for Public Leadership.

Gergen began a career in journalism in 1985. He was the moderator of World @ Large, a 13-part PBS discussion series for two seasons and for five years teamed up with Mark Shields on the MacNeil/Lehrer NewsHour for widely acclaimed Friday night political discussions. Today, he contributes to CNN as a senior political analyst, Parade Magazine and the U.S. News & World Report as editor-at-large. He holds 19 honorary degrees and sits on many boards, including Teach for America, the Aspen Institute and Duke University.

Sam Zell is chairman of Equity Group Investments LLC, the private, entrepreneurial investment firm he founded more than 40 years ago. Zell’s investments span industries and continents, and include interests in real estate, energy, logistics, transportation, media and health care. He is recognized as a founding father of today’s public real estate industry after creating three of the largest real estate investment trusts (REITs) in history. Previously, he served as chairman for Equity Office Properties Trust (EOP), which was sold in February 2007 to The Blackstone Group for $39 billion in the largest private equity transaction in history at the time.

Zell serves on the JPMorgan National Advisory Board; the President’s Advisory Board at the University of Michigan; the Visitor’s Committee at the University of Michigan Law School; and with the combined efforts of the University of Michigan Business School, established the Zell-Lurie Entrepreneurial Center. He is a long-standing supporter of the University of Pennsylvania Wharton Real Estate Center, and has endowed the Samuel Zell-Robert Lurie Real Estate Center at Wharton. He has also endowed the Northwestern University Center for Risk Management.

Dr. Peter Linneman is the principal of Linneman Associates and also serves as the Albert Sussman Professor of Real Estate, Finance and Public Policy at the Wharton School of Business, the University of Pennsylvania. A member of Wharton's faculty since 1979, he served as the founding chairman of Wharton's Real Estate Department and was the Director of Wharton's Zell-Lurie Real Estate Center for 13 years. He is the founding co-editor of The Wharton Real Estate Review. His teaching and research focuses on real estate and investment strategies. He has published over 80 articles during his career.

Linneman is widely recognized as one of the leading strategic thinkers in the real estate industry. He was cited as one of the 25 most influential people in real estate by Realtor Magazine and was named one of the 100 most powerful people in New York real estate by the New York Observer. He is also a co-coordinator/sponsor/moderator, with Sam Zell, of the prestigious industry roundtable, The Marshall Bennett Classic.

The BOMA International Conference and The Every Building Show® is the premier meeting and tradeshow for commercial real estate professionals to learn strategies and build relationships that are vital for achieving operational excellence and sustaining their business through this challenging market cycle. For more information, visit www.bomaconvention.org.

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About BOMA International:

Founded in 1907, the Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International is an international federation of more than 100 local associations and affiliated organizations. The 16,500-plus members of BOMA International own or manage more than nine billion square feet of commercial properties in North America and abroad. BOMA’s mission is to enhance the human, intellectual and physical assets of the commercial real estate industry through advocacy, education, research, standards and information. On the Web at www.boma.org.

Uncover the Value in Value-Added Offerings

Distributors are creating real value for their customers—but it takes real creativity to successfully charge for those services.

by Joe Salimando

Most distributors realize that the beyond-the-product-itself services they routinely provide add to their customers’ productivity and profitability. In a perfect world, these value-added offerings—things like wire cutting, energy audits, and staggering and staged deliveries—are things for which customers would routinely (even gladly) pay. But in tough times, with contractors bidding below their cost to get a share of the shrinking pie, insisting on being paid for extras can leave your company in second place.

So what’s a distributor to do? To answer that question, we turned to distributors across the country that are employing a wide range of strategies and tactics.

For example, in Harrisburg, Pa., Schaedler Yesco Distribution (SYD) has added a relatively new service—called Site Inventory Management Solutions (SIMS)—and customers are paying for it. The key? “We don’t give it away,” said Matt Brnik, president.

And at Electrical Distributors Inc. (EDI), the added value offered allows the company to differentiate itself “so that customers would rather buy from us,” noted Brent Spear, president of the Charlotte, N.C., company. The secret to getting paid for these services: “A deep knowledge of the wants and needs of the customer base,” said Spear.

Barry Boyer, chairman and CEO of Van Meter Industrial (VMI) in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, stresses quantifying the value of the problems you are solving for a customer. “There are going to be customers who ‘get’ that and others who don’t,” said Boyer. “At the end of the day, we want to align ourselves with the customers who understand total cost of acquisition.”

In some parts of the country, the renewables market can be a key area in which to add value. “The electrical contractors who are getting involved in renewable projects are looking for help,” said Rocklan “Rocky” Lawrence, owner of National Electric in Albuquerque, N.M. He noted that National has pursued renewable energy as an added value—and found it rewarding.

Of course, getting value out of value-added can be a case of trial and error. Keep reading, and you’ll find a tale of a New Jersey-headquartered distributor that tried adding energy auditing as value-added service—until it became a case of value subtracted—and how tough times led a California company to take a hard look at the value of the services it provides, resulting in one being outsourced.

Value-added services come in a variety of shapes and forms, but the goal of each is the same: “Value-added effort is all about leading the customer to develop a preference for our company,” said Victor Jury, president and CEO of Summit Electrical Supply in Albuquerque, N.M.

“It’s about knowing your customer and knowing your market,” Jury noted. “There are certain services we offer that differentiate us with a specific customer segment that are not important or even relevant to another segment. It’s our job to know what’s important to each customer.”

At Summit, the value-added key is IT capabilities. The company’s ERP platform—SAP—allows it to provide customized IT services such as online catalogs specific to individual project requirements.

“Our enhanced IT capabilities allow us to provide the type of sophisticated value-added services that large domestic and international customers look for,” said Jury.

For additional perspective, Bruce Merrifield (merrifield.com), noted distribution industry consultant, offered his take: At some level, Merrifield said, value-added can be a curse. “It starts with the basics, and [in these times], what it can get a distributor is ‘the last look’ from a customer before a project is awarded.

“But getting the last look puts zero real value on a company and its services —that is, you’re being given a chance to match someone else’s price. You get nothing for the value you bring to that customer.”

The key, he noted, is to be prepared. “You need to be able to go after that customer, to remind him or her of why your company is worth a bit more than the other guy,” said Merrifield. “In other words, you have to be able to say —in one way or another—‘We are worth the last look, plus.’”

Find something unique

Electrical contracting companies working on jobsites need materials that they don’t have. The reasons vary, but it often boils down to a last-minute reach, a foreman or project manager placing an emergency order, and someone jumping into a pickup truck to get what’s needed in a big hurry. Productivity goes out the window. Efficiency vanishes. And what’s worse, this can happen more than twice on a given job.

SIMS is the answer SYD developed for this problem: The distributor will put an unmanned trailer on a jobsite, full of the products that a contractor might need to get the job done. It’s perhaps the most popular value-added service SYD provides right now.

“In 2008, we had maybe a dozen of these trailers in the field,” said Brnik. “Now, we have upwards of 40 of them out there.”

Essentially, the service evolved from a value-added service provided to industrial and OEM storerooms. The jobsite trailer the SIMS team leaves on a site is customized for the contractor and the job.

According to Brnik, SYD rarely gives this service away. “I can’t say ‘never,’” he explained, “because on occasion, we have done a first project at cost for a contractor, just to prove that it works.” He added that the service is something that competitors in his company’s service area—which includes Pittsburgh—haven’t yet succeeded in duplicating.

“Right now, we have a team of people, and this is all they do—generate bills of material, design and customize the trailers, deliver the material, stock and barcode the shelves, take the inventory, generate replacement orders on the site, and automatically upload the list to the CDC for replenishment,” Brnik noted. “Some sites we deliver once daily. On smaller jobs, it might be once a week. It’s all based on the needs of the contractor.”

For the on-site project manager or foreman, the trailer is a dream come true. Everything needed is there; the company pays only for materials consumed. The secret, if there is one, to the success of this SYD service is the contractor’s project manager for the site.

“We have lots of repeat customers for this service,” Brnik said. “Whenever a foreman or project manager gets to run one job this way, afterward he wants every job to have this service.”

More than value-added?

From SYD’s perspective, Brnik said, the construction site solution beats the storeroom version: “For the industrials, it was a very sophisticated program without a lot of volume. In some storerooms, the product just doesn’t turn. This new business passed the storeroom business from a gross-margin standpoint in dollars two years ago. Now it’s about double.”

With the economy putting pressure on contractors, today the trailer-on-the-jobsite service is even more important to his company’s customers, Brnik said. “As the contractors have cut staffs, the project managers have to rely more on someone like us,” he noted. “They just have fewer people. With the project managers and foremen doing everything these days, this trailer is one less worry for them.

“We have a number of contractors who have done maybe as many as five or more projects with the trailers,” he continued. “And what we hear from them now, when a new project is under consideration, is, ‘We’re definitely doing a trailer on the job.’ It’s become more of a partnership.”

As Brnik summarized it, the jobsite SIMS trailer sounds like something more than a value-added service: “It’s something that gets many of these contractors to commit to us up front.”

And what’s that worth?

It’s all about attitudes and relationships

“I don’t think the model is really all that hard,” said Boyer. “Get to the customer’s pain and quantify that pain. You have to develop relationships with people. You need to show them you are serious about providing an advantage to them now and over the long term.”

Your value, said Boyer, is your unique solution—one that makes the customer’s pain disappear at a profit to your company.

“That’s the secret, frankly, for many of us,” he noted. “The customer doesn’t shackle you; you shackle yourself. We need to stop thinking of ourselves as distributors. If you wake up every day thinking that the market is never going to change—well, you’re going to find what you are looking for.”

Asked for an example, Boyer provided a big one: turning a supplier into a customer.

“We had an executive for a supplier to one of our market sectors in here the other day, from Europe,” he explained. “The supplier mentioned that his company needed a place in the United States where it can take the products brought in to modify them for sale here. I’m proud to say that our salespeople immediately responded with, ‘We can do that for you.’”

According to Boyer, the supplier reacted nicely, “but did so in such a way as to dismiss us—something along the lines of, ‘That’s nice of you, but you’re a distributor, thank you very much.’

“But our people didn’t give up,” he continued. “They took that executive on a tour of our distribution center and showed him the capabilities we have in our organization.”

So what happened?

“That supplier is now flying staff here from Europe, to see what we can do for them,” continued Boyer. “I estimate it’s a multimillion-dollar opportunity, and I’ll bet we end up working with them.”

How does a company develop the sense of urgency that VMI’s people displayed in that instance? “It’s not necessarily easy,” said Boyer, “but I know this for sure: The only thing we can actually control is our attitude and our activity.”

Know the customer

At EDI, getting paid for the extras and the effort is a result of heavy investment throughout the years.

“We have more than 10 people here in quotations and project management,” noted Spear. “We’ve brought in a lot of talent, and we have really good software. We know we can outperform our competitors, and we want to get paid for it.” The investment, he noted, was initially made to satisfy the demands of key customers that he wanted to keep.

“They told us, ‘We need this and this in a certain way,’” explained Spear. “For example, say that they wanted all of their information from us electronically. Once you develop the capability to do these things for your most demanding customers, what you find is that you now have the ability to do it for everybody.

“We don’t have a lot of industrial business here, so we’re focused on the contractor community,” he continued. “It seems to me that the contractors are more open to the potential of value-add propositions than they were maybe 10 years ago. They know there are certain things—like material handling—that they just can’t do nearly as well as a distributor.”

EDI will do kitting and wire cutting, meet special labeling requirements, and take care of a lot more for customers. The focus is on providing services that individual contractors really need and want. For example, Spear noted, “We have gotten to the point where we have one of our project managers spend most of a day on a customer’s jobsite, getting to know the contractor’s project manager on that job and what the challenges on that site are.

“Is that a value-add? You bet it is,” he said. “The estimator on that job might have priced out the job, but the project manager wants our end to be done right. We’ll put in the extra effort to do that, and our customers know it.”

Value-add ups and downs

At National Electric, Lawrence sees services offered by his company’s relatively new Energy Solutions Group as a value-add. “The electrical contractors who are getting involved in renewable projects are looking for help,” said Lawrence. “There’s a lot more to these projects than the solar collectors. It’s absolutely added value for our company. When we win one of those renewable projects, we are also able to secure all of the traditional electrical products for the project, including switchgear, lighting, and miscellaneous material.

“For example, we’re doing a solar system for a wastewater treatment plant,” he said. “Normally, it might be a $100,000 job, but this one is $400,000. By providing more value to the contractor on such jobs, we help them to get the work. And we get more value, too.”

In a conversation about wire cutting and paralleling, Ron Lim, vice president of sales and marketing at Griffith Electric in Trenton, N.J., revealed that his company recently eliminated a value-added service.

“We tried to provide energy auditing as a service with our own people, but it didn’t work for us,” Lim said. “We had problems. So instead of doing it ourselves, we found a third-party provider.

“It’s much more effective,” he continued. “My outside salesperson brings in this provider, and he delivers a complete service, which we were not able to do. He’s also able to help the customer with the rebates and the paperwork, something we discovered is definitely worth paying for.”

The company’s cutting and paralleling services, however, have proven to be valuable value-adds. “We introduced those services within the past three years or so and they are working out fine,” said Lim. “Like a lot of distributors, we sometimes end up throwing in the cutting and paralleling, but I’d say we are getting paid for it 25% to 30% of the time.”

Last but not least, Kathy Ellison, owner of B&K Electric Wholesale, headquartered in City of Industry, Calif., has found a less expensive way to provide a routine value-added service: In August, the company began outsourcing all of its deliveries.

“We’ve always done our own delivery, and we were always hesitant to outsource,” she explained. “After all, we thought you had to have your name on your truck.”

Making the change came down to this: Not only was it not a revenue-generating function, but there were numerous headaches in providing the service with B&K’s own workforce, including accidents and maintenance.

“It’s early, but now we don’t have to worry about trucking, as we no longer have any driver employees,” Ellison noted. “So far, it’s been very good.”

Salimando writes regularly for “tED,” tedmag.com, and eleblog.com. Reach him at ecdotcom@gmail.com.

REPRINTED with permission from tED magazine

Siemon Optical Fiber Cabling and High Speed Interconnect Solutions Support the Newly Ratified IEEE 802.3ba 40 Gb/s and 100 Gb/s Ethernet Standard

Watertown, CT.  September 29, 2010.   The recently ratified IEEE 802.3ba Standard specifies 40 Gb/s and 100 Gb/s Ethernet applications for deployment over optical fiber cabling and high speed interconnect assemblies.  Siemon supports the newly ratified 802.3ba Standard with a comprehensive product offering consisting of:

·        40 Gb/s and 100 Gb/s support of up to 100 meters over Siemon’s XGLO® OM3 multimode optical fiber and MTP connectivity in short reach mode

·        40 Gb/s and 100 Gb/s support of up to 150 meters over Siemon’s XGLO OM4 multimode optical fiber and MTP connectivity in short reach mode

·        40 Gb/s and 100 Gb/s support of up to 10 kilometers over Siemon’s XGLO® singlemode optical fiber and LC connectivity in long reach mode

·        100 Gb/s support of up to 40 kilometers over Siemon’s XGLO singlemode optical fiber and LC connectivity in extended reach mode

·        40 Gb/s support of up to 5 meters over Siemon’s QSFP+ passive copper high speed interconnect assemblies

·        40 Gb/s support of up to 4 kilometers over Siemon’s Moray™ QSFP+ active optical cable assemblies

“Siemon has always been on the cutting edge with our twisted-pair and optical fiber cabling solutions and our new high speed interconnect technology enables us to support Ethernet deployment across the entire breadth of possible data center configurations,” explains John Siemon, Chief Technology Officer of The Siemon Company.  “The decision to develop high speed interconnect solutions was based on global market drivers and technical studies that clearly demonstrate increased adoption of direct connections between servers and switches located in the same rack or in adjacent racks.  By extending our family of cabling products, we are able to support both traditional structured cabling as well as factory pre-configured unified architecture deployments to meet our customer’s data center needs.”

While the current 40 Gb/s and 100 Gb/s copper deployments are limited to short length twinaxial cable assemblies, this emerging technology is anticipated to drive advancements related to the support of next generation Ethernet applications over twisted-pair cabling.

“Unfortunately, some manufacturers are taking advantage of the lack of information regarding the IEEE 802.3ba standard by making claims regarding support of 40 Gb/s applications with twisted-pair cabling,” says Robert Carlson, Siemon’s VP of Global Marketing.  “In the absence of a call-for-interest by IEEE, application support claims cannot be verified.  Any such claims are misleading.” 

Until objectives for a new Ethernet project are adopted, assessing headroom to published standards and selecting products with stable transmission performance at extended bandwidths is the only way to differentiate performance capability between manufacturers. 

Based on its industry leading performance and bandwidth capability, Carlson notes that Siemon’s TERA® category 7A cabling system is ideally prepared to support applications beyond 10GBASE-T. TERA systems provide performance up to at least 1.2 GHz, deliver guaranteed transmission headroom for improved signal-to-noise margin and have been deployed globally for more than a decade.

For more information on Siemon’s comprehensive line of 10 Gb/s, 40 Gb/s, and 100 Gb/s-ready solutions, including category 6A UTP, category 6A shielded, category 7A S/FTP (fully-shielded), laser-optimized multimode and low water peak singlemode optical fiber, visit www.siemon.com.  Information on Siemon’s QSFP+ and passive copper cable assemblies and Moray QSFP+ active optical cable assembly products can be found at www.siemon.com/sis .

Follow Siemon on Twitter:  http://twitter.com/siemoncabling/

Join Siemon on Facebook: http://www.siemon.com/go/facebook

###

About Siemon

Established in 1903, Siemon is an industry leader specializing in the manufacture and innovation of high quality, high-performance network cabling solutions. Headquartered in Connecticut, USA, with global offices and partners throughout the world, Siemon offers the most comprehensive suite of copper (unshielded and shielded twisted-pair) and fiber cabling systems available. Siemon’s Interconnect Solutions business unit (SIS) specializes in the development of high-speed interconnects.  With over 400 patents specific to structured cabling, Siemon Labs invests heavily in R&D and development of industry standards, underlining the company's long-term commitment to its customers and the industry.

*IEEE 802.3ba is a trademark of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers

Contact Information

Brian Duval

MarCom Manager

Siemon

101 Siemon Company Drive

 Watertown, CT 06795

Ph: 860-945-4380

E: brian_duval@siemon.com

Siemon High-Speed Interconnect Assemblies Pass Key Ethernet Alliance 40 Gb/s and 100 Gb/s Interoperability Testing

Watertown, Connecticut – October 5, 2010 – Siemon, a leading global manufacturer of IT network cabling and infrastructure systems, today announced that its high speed interconnect products have passed key 40 and 100 Gigabit Ethernet testing at the Ethernet Alliance’s recent Higher Speed Ethernet (HSE) subcommittee interoperability plugfest for IEEE Std. 802.3baTM-2010 40 and 100 Gbps Ethernet.

Hosted by Ixia at its iSimCity lab in Santa Clara, CA and assisted by the University of New Hampshire Interoperability Lab, the plugfest was designed to verify interoperability of 40 Gb/s and 100 Gb/s test equipment, systems, NICs, transceivers and cabling. Testing included Siemon’s Moray QSFP active optical and QSFP passive copper cable assemblies, multi-fiber MTP connectorized equipped OM3 and OM4 optical assemblies and singlemode fiber with SC connectors.  All Siemon high-speed cable assemblies passed their respective 40 Gb/s and 100 Gb/s interoperability tests.

“The plugfest was instrumental in proving that the higher speed Ethernet ecosystem is ready for deployment,” said David Schneider, marketing chair of the EA’s Higher Speed Ethernet subcommittee. “Siemon’s full line of cables fully interoperated with the transceivers and systems at the plugfest.”

“With the recent activity in IEEE 802.3ab, this EA plugfest becomes absolutely crucial in signalling the commercial viability of high-speed Ethernet to the larger network infrastructure market,“ explained Randy Below, VP of Business Development at Siemon’s Interconnect Solutions business unit.  “It also allowed Siemon to highlight the breadth of its cabling line. We have end-to end twisted pair and optical fiber systems supporting application speeds up to and beyond 10Gb/s, including category 6A shielded and UTP and fully-shielded category 7A TERA as well as XGLO singlemode and multimode fiber. We can now add fully interoperable 40Gb/s and 100Gb/s Passive twinaxial Copper, Active Optical and Passive Optical interconnects to that list.”

Learn more about Siemon’s high-speed interconnect products at: www.siemon.com/sis

Follow Siemon Interconnect Solutions on Twitter: http://twitter.com/siemonis/

Join Siemon on Facebook: http://www.siemon.com/go/facebook

Read our blog at www.siemon.com/sis/blog

###

About Siemon:

Established in 1903, Siemon (www.siemon.com) is a global industry leader in the development and manufacture of high quality, high-performance network cabling solutions. Siemon’s Interconnect Solutions business unit (SIS) specializes in the development of high-speed interconnects. Headquartered in Watertown, Connecticut, USA, Siemon operates directly in over 30 countries and, through its channels, services customers in over 100 countries. Siemon offers a comprehensive suite of copper and optical fiber cabling systems. With over 400 patents, Siemon Labs invests heavily in R&D and is actively involved with numerous industry standards organizations around the world.

www.siemon.com/sis

www.siemon.com

Media Contact:

Brian Duval

MarCom Manager

Siemon

101 Siemon Company Drive

 Watertown, CT 06795

Ph: 860-945-4380

E: brian_duval@siemon.com

Product Information Contact:

Tom Pike

Product Manager

Siemon Interconnect Solutions

Ph: 860-945-8499

E: tom_pike@siemon.com

Siemon’s QSFP+ High-Speed Passive Copper Interconnect Products Pass Key InfiniBand Testing

40Gb/s interconnect cable assemblies tested and accepted by the InfiniBand Trade Association (IBTA) as compliant to the InfiniBand Architecture Specification

Watertown, Connecticut – September 20, 2010 – Siemon, a leading global manufacturer of IT network cabling and infrastructure systems, today announced that its passive copper QSFP+ (Quad Small Form-factor Pluggable Plus) high speed interconnect products have been tested and accepted by the InfiniBand Trade Association (IBTA) as compliant to the InfiniBand Architecture Specification.

Siemon Interconnect Solutions QSFP+ Passive Copper Cable assemblies were developed for high-density applications, offering a cost-effective, low-power option for high-speed data center interconnects up to 10 meters depending on wire gage and IO interface usage. Ideal for server blade to box, rack-to-rack and shelf-to-shelf interconnects as well as high-speed networking and storage equipment applications, the QSFP+ form factor can replace up to four standard SFP+ connections, providing greater density and reduced system cost.

By passing the rigorous IBTA testing, Siemon’s QSFP+ assemblies are now included on IBTA's Integrators' List, which is designed to support data center managers, CIOs and other IT professionals with deployment of InfiniBand systems.  End users and OEMs frequently check the IBTA Integrators' List prior to the deployment of InfiniBand solutions, including small and large computing clusters, to ensure product compliance with the InfiniBand architecture specification as well as interoperability with other InfiniBand products.

Twelve variants of Siemon's copper QSFP+ cable assemblies in various gages and lengths are certified on the IBTA's Integrators' List as being compliant to 10G per lane QDR data rates. The current IBTA Integrators' List is available at http://www.infinibandta.org/content/pages.php?pg=integrators_list_overview

Interoperable with compliant SFF-8436 interfaces, Siemon’s QSFP+ copper interconnects are also fully compatible with a wide array of data protocols/interfaces, including Ethernet 10G, 40G (IEEE-802.3ba) and SONET. They also support Fibre Channel 10G, 40G SAN; FCoE, RapidIO and Myrinet 40G systems links.

This interconnect is part of the Siemon’s high speed connectivity products that include Moray QSFP Active Optical Cable assemblies and MTP Plug and Play solutions as well as a comprehensive range of innovative copper and optical fiber structured cabling products..

Learn more about Siemon’s high-speed interconnect products at: www.siemon.com/sis

Follow Siemon Interconnect Solutions on Twitter: http://twitter.com/siemonis/

Join Siemon on Facebook: http://www.siemon.com/go/facebook

Read our blog at www.siemon.com/sis/blog

###

About Siemon:

Established in 1903, Siemon (www.siemon.com) is a global industry leader in the development and manufacture of high quality, high-performance network cabling solutions. Siemon’s Interconnect Solutions business unit (SIS) specializes in the development of high-speed interconnects. Headquartered in Watertown, Connecticut, USA, Siemon operates directly in over 30 countries and, through its channels, services customers in over 100 countries. Siemon offers a comprehensive suite of copper and optical fiber cabling systems. With over 400 patents, Siemon Labs invests heavily in R&D and is actively involved with numerous industry standards organizations around the world.

www.siemon.com/sis

www.siemon.com

Media Contact:

Brian Duval

MarCom Manager

Siemon

101 Siemon Company Drive

 Watertown, CT 06795

Ph: 860-945-4380

E: brian_duval@siemon.com

Product Information Contact:

Tom Pike

Product Manager

Siemon Interconnect Solutions

Ph: 860-945-8499

E: tom_pike@siemon.com

SoleraTec Releases Video Surveillance Application for Drobo Storage Family

Drobo FS and DroboPro FS units can now double as professional grade video surveillance appliance for businesses needing protection.

San Diego – October 18, 2010 – SoleraTec LLC, a provider of innovative video lifecycle management and storage software solutions, has teamed with Data Robotics, Inc., to develop a version of the Phoenix RSM surveillance video management application that runs natively on the Drobo FS or DroboPro FS file sharing systems to create a video surveillance appliance.  Connecting compatible network IP cameras to the Drobo FS or DroboPro FS running Phoenix RSM, businesses can easily record, store, and manage video surveillance feeds as well as search for previously recorded video from their own computers.

Drobo FS and DroboPro FS provide straightforward, expandable, storage that allows customers the ability to “pay as you grow” with their video surveillance needs. They can increase the video retention periods by simply adding another Drobo unit to the network.  With the built-in storage capacity of the Drobo family, embedding the Phoenix RSM software delivers exceptional archiving and retention capabilities for video surveillance management.

The Drobo-based video surveillance appliance is a smart alternative to other overly complex video security products.  Users can easily add, move, and remove cameras as well as additional Drobo storage resources via an intuitive centralized management console.  They can quickly set up a megapixel IP camera, schedule recording periods, and easily search on all recorded video from that or any camera, all within 20 minutes of installation.

“Small businesses need a cost effective way to retain video surveillance data. With Phoenix RSM  and Drobo, companies can easily add additional video storage by simply plugging it into their network,” said Mark Fuccio, Data Robotics’ Sr. Director, Products & Markets.

Users can select from a list of hundreds of RTSP-enabled IP network cameras offering a wide selection of camera quality and resolution options. This combination of high quality IP cameras, the Phoenix RSM surveillance video management software, and the ease of the Drobo NAS family delivers professional-grade NVR capabilities to today’s businesses needing security surveillance.

“What sets the Drobo systems apart is the ease of use, functionality, and scalability.  The ability of Phoenix RSM to handle the centralized management of integrating video cameras, to re-order the video storage requirements based upon the available Drobo units, and to quickly and easily access all recorded video offers a compelling solution for today’s demanding customer,” stated Jay Jason Bartlett, Vice President of Business Development at SoleraTec.

Pricing and Availability

The Phoenix RSM application for Drobo FS and DroboPro FS will be available at the beginning of November 2010.  Pricing will depend on storage capacity and configuration. Contact SoleraTec for information.

About Data Robotics

Data Robotics, Inc., the company that delivers the best storage experience ever, develops the award-winning Drobo family of automated storage products that are designed to ensure data is always protected, accessible and simple to manage.  Based on the patented and proven BeyondRAID technology, Drobo provides an unprecedented combination of advanced data protection features and ease-of-use.  For more information, visit Data Robotics at www.drobo.com. Data Robotics, Drobo, DroboPro, DroboElite, and BeyondRAID are trademarks of Data Robotics, Inc.

About SoleraTec

SoleraTec is a leading developer of archive, storage, asset, and video lifecycle management software for corporate customers. SoleraTec leverages a heritage of nearly a decade and a half to deliver a level of quality, sophistication, and technological advancement that has established it as one of the premier data protection solution providers in the industry. SoleraTec works through OEM, dealer, and integrator relationships to deliver complete data protection solutions. The company was established in 1997 by a team of industry veterans with experience deploying data protection, HSM, and storage lifecycle management solutions to some of the largest companies around the world. For more information, please visit www.SoleraTec.com.

BICSI World Headquarters Course Update

BICSI World Headquarters Course Update
BICSI is committed to bringing you world-class education and training to help you achieve your career goals. Take advantage of these upcoming courses and exams at BICSI World Headquarters in Tampa, Fla., throughout December.

DD200: Telecommunications Distribution Design Review, December 6-9
Are you preparing for the RCDD exam? DD200 features a fast-paced review of the BICSI TDMM, 12th edition, highlighting the critical areas you should know for the RCDD exam. Practice tests and general test-taking tips and strategies are included.

OSP200: OSP Design Specialist Review, December 9-10
This course presents a fast-paced review of the BICSI OSPDRM. This 2-day course will highlight the critical areas students should know for the OSP Specialist examination.

RCDD, RITP, ESS, NTS, OSP and WD examinations will be held December 11.

IN225: BICSI ITS Installer 2, Copper Training, December 6-10
Whether new installation or existing premise, BICSI’s ITS Installer 2, Copper Training Course gives you a competitive distinction by allowing you to showcase your skills as a copper system specialist. IN225 is a 5-day course that provides the foundations of a copper-based structured cabling system installation.

ITS Installer 2, Copper examinations will be held December 10-11.

DD120: Grounding and Protection Fundamentals for Telecommunications Systems, December 13-15
This 3-day course teaches you the latest knowledge on grounding, in addition to the protection of customers’ cable and equipment investments.

PM125: Telecommunications Project Management Program, December 13-17
This intensive 5-day course covers the entire cycle of a project, from bid to completion, and prepares you for the Telecommunications Project Manager (TPM) exam, included at the end of the course.

DD100: Introduction to Voice/Data Cabling Systems, December 13-14
This course introduces you to cabling pathways and spaces, different types of cabling, transmission characteristics of cabling, how to work with contractors, how to evaluate the work and how projects are implemented.

DC110: Data Center Design Best Practices, December 15-17
Receive an in-depth introduction to designing data centers and review the best practices covered in BICSI 002-2010, Data Center Design and Implementation Best Practices.

DD125: Advanced Grounding and Bonding, December 16-18
The DD125 course is an advanced 3-day course that gives the student the ability to move far beyond the traditional textbook instruction and apply real-world information in a practical, hands-on environment.

Save Now!
Register for three or more courses at the same time and save 10 percent! Offer also valid if three or more students from the same company preregister for the same class at the same time.

Don't forget! Preregister for a course at least 45 days in advance and save five percent. (BICSI CONNECT courses and training provided by companies outside of BICSI are not eligible for this discount.)

Register today! For more information or to reserve your seat, follow the above links, or contact BICSI toll-free at 800.242.7405.

TIA 2011: Inside the Network Call for Speakers Is Open

Telecommunications Industry Association Annual ICT Industry Event to Be Held

May 17-20, 2011 at Gaylord Texan in Dallas Technology Corridor

Arlington, Va. – The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) is accepting submissions for presentations and panel sessions for TIA 2011: Inside the Network, a Summit and Exhibition taking place May 17 – 20, 2011 at the Gaylord Texan near Dallas, Texas.

TIA 2011: Inside the Network features new perspective and vision to the evolving business case, value proposition and technology use case of the broadband economy. Where there once was voice, video and data – there is now an emerging all-IP network of converged wireless and wireline content.

Today, network operators serve enterprises and residences. More and more, customers may include utilities, utility cooperatives, application developers, over the top video (OTT) providers, technology suppliers and more. At the same time, demands being placed on the network infrastructure will increasingly affect network security, reliability and sustainability. TIA 2011: Inside the Network focuses on challenges and solutions for the global community of buyers, sellers and users of the network.

TIA is seeking knowledgeable, insightful and forward-looking speakers covering all aspects of broadband communications, networks and services. Speakers are required to be objective, dynamic and enthusiastic about sharing their expertise and knowledge.

To review the conference tracks/topics, guidelines, evaluation criteria and other important facts regarding speaking opportunities, go to http://www.tia2011.org/speakers.htm,

Deadline for submissions is Nov. 15.

To learn more about TIA 2011: Inside the Network, go to http://www.tia2011.org/. To learn about exhibiting or sponsorship opportunities, please contact TIA at exhibits@tiaonline.org, or call +1.703.907.7002. For media barters contact Jeff Hannah at jhannah@tiaonline.org, or call +1.703.907.7582.

About TIA

The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) represents the global information and communications technology (ICT) industry through standards development, advocacy, tradeshows, business opportunities, market intelligence and worldwide environmental regulatory analysis. Since 1924, TIA has been enhancing the business environment for broadband, mobile wireless, information technology, networks, cable, satellite and unified communications. Members’ products and services empower communications in every industry and market, including healthcare, education, security, public safety, transportation, government, the military, the environment and entertainment.

TIA is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Visit tiaonline.org.

TIA’s Board of Directors includes senior-level executives from ADTRAN, Alcatel-Lucent, ANDA Networks, AttivaCorp, Cisco Systems, Ericsson, Inc., GENBAND, Inc., Henkels & McCoy, ILS Technology, Intel Corporation, Intersect, Inc., LGE, Microsoft, Motorola, Nokia Siemens Networks, OneChip Photonics, Openwave, Inc., Panasonic Computer Solutions Co., Powerwave Technologies, Qualcomm, Research In Motion, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave Corporation, Tellabs, Tyco Electronics, Ulticom, Inc., Walker & Associates and WirefreeCom, Inc. Advisors to the Board include FAL Associates and Telcordia Technologies.

TIA Hails Enactment of the 21st Century Communications & Video Accessibility Act

Washington, D.C. – The Telecommunications Industry Association today hailed the enactment of the "21st Century Communications and Video Accessibility Act," thanking President Obama for signing the legislation into law.

TIA earlier thanked the U.S. Congress for the passing the bill, which was improved in committee to ensure that it met the goal of continued availability of accessible technology without hampering the technological innovation that is the hallmark of America's information and communications technology (ICT) industry. The bill included consensus language on Hearing Aid Compatibility (HAC) that TIA negotiated with the accessibility community late last year.

"We are gratified that the Congress and the Obama Administration took effective action to see that this law was enacted this year, in which we marked the 20th anniversary of the Americans With Disabilities Act," said TIA President Grant Seiffert. "TIA is committed to making technology accessible to all Americans and will continue to champion this important mission."

TIA has a long history of working closely with the Hearing Loss Association of America and Gallaudet University to develop standards, including the TIA-1083 standard that reduces noise and interference in digital cordless phones when used by people with T-Coil-equipped hearing aids or Cochlear implants. The standard has been updated to apply to newer technologies with digital interfaces, including Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), Wi-Fi, Bluetooth®, and USB.

As part of World Standards Week 2010, the theme of which was "standards for accessibility," TIA participated at an outreach event on Capitol Hill that showcased the TIA-1083 standard for members of Congress on Oct. 2.

About TIA
The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) represents the global information and communications technology (ICT) industry through standards development, advocacy, tradeshows, business opportunities, market intelligence and world-wide environmental regulatory analysis. Since 1924, TIA has been enhancing the business environment for broadband, mobile wireless, information technology, networks, cable, satellite and unified communications. Members' products and services empower communications in every industry and market, including healthcare, education, security, public safety, transportation, government, the military, the environment and entertainment.

Join TIA at its new annual industry event - TIA 2011: Inside the Network - at the Gaylord Texan in Dallas, May 17-20, 2011.

TIA is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Visit tiaonline.org.

TIA's Board of Directors includes senior-level executives from ADTRAN, Alcatel-Lucent, ANDA Networks, AttivaCorp, Cisco Systems, Ericsson, Inc., GENBAND, Inc., Henkels & McCoy, ILS Technology, Intel Corporation, Intersect, Inc., LGE, Microsoft, Motorola, Nokia Siemens Networks, OneChip Photonics, Openwave, Inc., Panasonic Computer Solutions Co., Powerwave Technologies, Qualcomm, Research In Motion, Sumitomo Electric Lightwave Corporation, Tellabs, Tyco Electronics, Ulticom, Inc., Walker & Associates and WirefreeCom, Inc. Advisors to the Board include FAL Associates and Telcordia Technologies.

For more information about this press release or other TIA or EIATRACK news, please contact TIA PR Director Mike Snyder at msnyder@tiaonline.org.

U.S. Navy Awards IDEAL with Five-Year Contract for LanTEK II Network Cable Certifier

SYCAMORE, IL, October 8, 2010 -- The United States Navy has awarded a 5-year contract to IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC., a global leader in data communications technology, that will provide the Navy and other U.S. federal government agencies with contract pricing on the IDEAL LanTEK® II network cable certifier.

The Navy version of the LanTEK II, which includes the IDEAL Alien Crosstalk testing kit, is available to U.S. federal government agencies through NAVICPMART. Three commercial versions of the LanTEK II can be purchased by government agencies through GSA.

The LanTEK II is deployed by technicians to certify that newly installed Ethernet cables meet international performance standards, as well as to conduct general troubleshooting of existing networks.

Along with its unprecented testing accuracy, a key factor in the success of the LanTEK II is speed. The 1000 MHz LanTEK II delivers 11-second Cat 5e and 14-second Cat 6A tests with full performance data, along with10 Gigabit Alien Crosstalk testing that's more than four-times faster than competitive systems.

For more information, contact IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC., Becker Place, Sycamore, Illinois 60178. Or phone 1-800-435-0705, Fax: 1-800-533-4483. On the web, www.idealindustries.com.

ABOUT IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC.
IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC. has been serving the electrical industry since 1916. IDEAL is one of the world's leading manufacturers of professional quality tools and supplies serving installation professionals in the construction, maintenance, data communications and original equipment manufacturing industries.

AN INNOVATIVE ALTERNATIVE TO TRADITIONAL TWIST-WIRE CONNECTORS - THE DOUBLE-SPRINGED HELACON PLUS WIRE CONNECTOR

September 22, 2010 (Milwaukee, WI) ― HellermannTyton (www.hellermann.tyton.com), a global manufacturer and supplier of solutions which help connect, manage and identify wire and cable components, introduces the newest wire and cable connection technology — the DOUBLE-SPRING DESIGN HelaCon Plus push-in connector.   With the introduction of this connector to its HelaCon series of push-in style connectors, HellermannTyton has once again coupled innovative safety and efficiency in a distinct solution that offers options to traditional twist-wire connectors for electrical and original equipment manufacturer applications.

HelaCon Plus is a unique push-in style wire connector because it features DOUBLE-SPRING TECHNOLOGY that delivers safe, reliable and simple wire connections.  The first spring allows for low insertion force, and the second secures the firm connection with a significantly higher retention value.  With HelaCon Plus, HellermannTyton offers an affordable and ergonomically-friendly alternative for completing routine wire termination tasks.

Consistent and reliable, the HelaCon Plus connector is an effective and efficient substitute to twist-on wire connectors because it is able to join any combination of solid and stranded wire through its individual pole slots within the same housing unit.  It is a safer, more dependable connector with a 24 A maximum current rating, and UL listed approval up to 600 volts for building wire and 1000 volts for fixtures and signs.  The HelaCon Plus connector also has multiple in-line port options for greater flexibility and future expansion.

ABOUT HELLERMANNTYTON

HellermannTyton is a recognized manufacturer of high-quality cable ties, clamps, clips, connectors, cable management products, and identification systems for the electrical, industrial, commercial data, and telecommunications markets.  Located in over 30 countries, HellermannTyton offers an integrated approach to design, operation, and delivery to optimize service and solutions for local and global customers.  The company’s engineered solutions and innovative products are designed and constructed to meet the strictest quality standards while delivering reliable implementation at the lowest cost.

AT&T’s LTE MARKETING: LAME

This week at the 4G WORLD Conference at McCormick Place in Chicago where they are talking about the next-generation wireless networks of LTE (Long Term Evolution) and WiMAX, I happened to sit in on a presentation entitled “Managing Customer Experience in the World of Complex Products, Devices and Market Pressures”.  I, along with others, was not impressed by the presentation of the AT&T “expert” on customer experience.  To sum it up in one word: tedious.

WHO IS YOUR TARGET MARKET?

The presentation started off with some complex slides showing the detailed approach of analyzing the market and what the needs are for both business and consumers, but the example that was dwelled upon for most of the presentation was not what the audience wanted to hear.

The example of providing new capabilities to an owner of a horse-breeding farm and providing access via a wireless (LTE) connection to the owner to check on the mares and how they were doing in their gestation period was lame.

Maybe someone is playing too much Farmville at their desk at AT&T, but I fail to see how that application is going to be the earth-shattering, mega-seller application that is going to sell thousands of smartphones.  They might be able to corner the small elite market segment of horse-breeding farms, but how many phones and how much network traffic does that translate to?

This presentation may have been better off being presented at the Rural Telecom Conference but I think even there it would have been viewed as not addressing the big picture of small rural areas.

You have to go back to the mid-1980s ISDN strategy to bring up a more lame understanding and application marketing approach to the end users.  Remember 2B+D?  Two Bearer channels and a D channel for signaling?  How does the customer relate to that? 

My contention was that if they would have named the service “Two-for-one” and priced it like Happy Hour (two lines for the price of one) everyone would have had ISDN in their house by the early 1990s. 

To quote from my 1987 Network World article, “The Wizard of ISDN” that questioned that strategy for selling that application:

http://books.google.com/books?id=gx0EAAAAMBAJ&pg=PA25&lpg=PA25&dq=%22Wizard+of+ISDN%22&source=bl&ots=UQ0SY0q66k&sig=ErthXgbMKviyKz4lvXYNEAJzAUs&hl=en&ei=L-6-TM7aOdGknQfS4LSJDg&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=1&ved=0CBMQ6AEwAA#v=onepage&q=%22Wizard%20of%20ISDN%22&f=false

“Some of the preliminary applications that have been suggested hold up under practical scrutiny about as well as the Wicked Witch under a bucket of water.”

That same assessment could have been applied today to the horse-breeding farm smartphone application the AT&T “expert” dwelled on.

WHAT I EXPECTED

I guess my expectations were too high, but I thought she were going to discuss the important shift in marketing to a new breed of consumer using new technology and a fresh strategic approach.  An approach which is very focused on customization, individualization, and personalization of the smartphone device to their specific needs.

It turns out AT&T is using Microsoft’s SURFACE product in some of its retail stores to provide a more personalized approach to customizing the customer’s choice of phone and network plan.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BN_LjdPDglw&feature=related

 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1IpDStL23M&feature=related

I think the “Managing the Customer Experience” presentation would have been much more relevant using something like these real examples of customization and personalization of the customer experience in selecting devices and network plans, rather than going through the tedious example of all the fine points of monitoring pregnant mares for a horse-breeding application.

With all the presentation’s complexities describing voice calling; social networking; access to web, video, and games; specialized applications and security, the basics of:

-          Who is the target market? 

-          Who is the audience you are presenting this marketing strategy to?

was somehow forgotten.

FROM THE EXHIBIT HALL

In walking around the Exhibit Hall, the FCC had a booth there which I thought was a good use of government resources.  Then I picked up a very colorful US Frequency Allocations map of the radio spectrum that was dated October 2003 and asked if they had anything more recent?  The person in the booth said they were waiting on the NTIA to provide them with an update. 

What did you expect?  With all the changes that have happened in frequency auctions and everything else, I thanked him for the colorful birdcage liner.

More politically accurate perspectives are forthcoming as I walk around and talk with the industry.

CARLINI-ISM :  In the big mega-buck racetrack of broadband wireless applications, I would not be betting on the AT&T Horse.

James Carlini is attending 4G WORLD and will have other articles focusing on WiMAX and LTE in future articles.

Follow daily Carlini-isms at www.TWITTER.com/JAMESCARLINI

Copyright 2010 – James Carlini

Check out www.carliniscomments.com JAMES CARLINI’s BLOG

SoleraTec’s Phoenix RSM Passes Intransa Initial Testing and Validation

Phoenix RSM along with Milestone and OnSSI modules prove to be compelling solution for video surveillance solutions.

October 18, 2010 – SoleraTec LLC, a provider of innovative video lifecycle management and storage software solutions, has recently completed the initial testing process of Intransa’s Physical Security Virtual Test Lab and validated the integration capabilities of the Phoenix RSM surveillance video management solution, along with the Phoenix RSM-ME (Milestone Extention) and RSM-OE (OnSSI Extension) modules.

SoleraTec’s engineers worked for over a week on the Intransa VA210 appliances in a Windows™ environment. The initial testing environment called for capturing 12 IP-camera feeds through Axis encoders.  This was performed in a 24 hour period with low CPU utilization being detected on the Intransa appliance.  The testing environment was then shifted to capturing eight IP-cameras and simultaneously extracting four camera feeds from an OnSSI server. 

The Intransa VA210 appliances performed impeccably and were very quick in delivering the various search and video playback requests initiated.  Performance is becoming increasingly important in an IP video surveillance solution and the Intransa systems are capable storage solutions.

“We were very happy with the performance and responsiveness of the Intransa appliances and SoleraTec is a proud partner of Intransa in delivering a total solution for customers needing a high performing video surveillance storage and management system,” stated Mark Armstrong, CEO of SoleraTec. “Both Intransa and SoleraTec focus on the storage, retention, and management of a video surveillance solution and both want to deliver the best possible products to our mutual customers.”

Widely deployed by customers in physical security, industrial video, and related markets since its introduction in mid-2009, Intransa's VideoAppliance was recently recognized as the Best in Video Storage and Distribution by the Security Industry Association at ISC West 2010, which is the latest in a string of similar awards.  SoleraTec is scheduled to complete the next phase of the Intransa SELECT Partner Certification process before the end of the year.  

“We look forward to working with SoleraTec to complete the certification process and to showcase this unique system to our customers,” stated George Vaiser, Vice President, Intransa. “With our Physical Security Virtual Test Lab we can ensure the highest quality products function as advertised and deliver the best solution to our customers.”

About Intransa

Intransa, Inc. the VideoAppliance™ Company, delivers simple and scalable installer-ready appliances, purpose-built for the demands of physical security and industrial video. Intransa VideoAppliance™ sets itself up automatically in under 5 minutes, and is ready for activation of video management software from the leaders in the industry. Our ground-breaking technology eliminates the complexity, cost and ongoing support challenge of integrating commodity servers, storage and hardware, replacing them two-for-one with scalable appliances. That's in part why Intransa VideoAppliance was named the Best in Video Storage and Distribution by the Security Industry Association at ISC West 2010, as New Product of the Year at ASIS International 2009, and one of the Top 30 Technology Innovations of 2009.

About SoleraTec

SoleraTec is a leading developer of archive, storage, asset and video lifecycle management software for corporate customers. SoleraTec leverages a heritage of nearly a decade and a half to deliver a level of quality, sophistication, and technological advancement that has established it as one of the premier data protection solution providers in the industry. SoleraTec works through OEM, dealer, and integrator relationships to deliver complete data protection solutions. The company was established in 1997 by a team of industry veterans with experience deploying data protection, HSM, and storage lifecycle management solutions to some of the largest companies around the world. For more information, please visit www.SoleraTec.com.

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ASIS RECAP by Security Produxts magazine

From Ralph Jensen,
Security Products

Editor-In-Chief at ASIS 2010

October 12-15
Dallas

Editor's Note: School Application Goes Wild

Daily News from ASIS

Security Products Taps ASIS Resources

By Sherleen Mahoney
It's no secret that Security Products magazine dominates the print side of the security industry, and we strive to capture the No. 1 spot with our online properties.

With my promotion to Web Managing Editor, my main goals at ASIS was to promote some of the big changes that are coming to the Security Products website, as well as securing original, interesting and unique content for the website.

By Cindy Horbrook
School security expert Paul Timm asked attendees to consider a number of questions during Thursday's ASIS 2010 session Safe and Secure Schools: Trends, Practices and Funding.

Timm, president of RETA Security, implored attendees to think of how they would answer the questions to his "pop quiz."

Headlines from ASIS

SALTO Introduces RFID Synchronized Access Control System

Arecont Vision Unveils New Compact H.264 Cameras

Telular Announces Telguard TG-7FS Sole Path Cellular Alarm Communicator

Sarnoff, ePortation Demonstrate Iris Identity Verification System

ASIS Breaking News Center