Wireville.com

It's been about 15 years since Gigabit Ethernet on fiber caused the re-evaluation of 50/125 multimode fiber. 50/125 fiber had much more bandwidth with the VCSEL sources used with Gigabit Ethernet than the 62.5/125 multimode fiber then in widespread use, so it gave longer distance capability to gigabit links. 50/125 became the focus of fiber engineering and the old variety of 50/125, now called OM2 developed into OM3 and OM4 with higher bandwidth at the 850nm wavelength used with VCSELs evolved into fibers that supported long links at 10G.
So you would think that everybody is installing OM3 or OM4 fiber, wouldn't you? Well, think again! According to an article in CI&M this month, 62.5/125 fiber still represents 25-30% of all multimode fiber sold.
Why? It appears that most is used in networks that are 1G or less, support legacy equipment or slow equipment like industrial controllers or security CCTV cameras, or are extensions of current networks running on 62.5 fiber where the user does not wish to have the problems one can have when mixing the two fibers.
Certainly new networks based on MM fiber should use the more capable 50 micron fiber, but one hopes the user also installs hybrid cables with singlemode fiber in the cable as well, in case they find out that they really could benefit from using an OLAN system (see other mentions of OLANs on this page.)
Read the full CI&M Article on why not to install new 62.5/125 fiber here.

Latest Google Rumors

Other than talking about Google Fiber in Kansas City and soon Austin, TX and Provo, UT and recently showing artistic photos of their data centers, Google is secretive about their projects. Estimating how much of the Internet traffic is Google's is a industry favorite activity. We have seen estimates from 6% to the latest in a Wired article which estimates 25% including all the YouTube traffic.
Even more interesting is Google's building of data centers - now on four continents - and the newest - putting Google servers in many ISPs. These servers store the most popular content - e.g. viral videos off YouTube - locally to reduce the actual Internet backbone traffic.
Read the Wired story here.

In other Google news, Starbucks and Google have made an agreement for Google to replace AT&T as the provider of WiFi in Starbucks stores, upping the speed considerably.

OLANs - Optical LANs

New Association for OLANs

Not surprisingly, OLANs now have their own association to educate users about the advantages of OLANs. The Association for Passive Optical LAN is a non-profit organization composed of manufacturers, distributors, integrators, and consulting companies who are actively involved in the Passive Optical LAN marketplace. Its members support the growth and education of the Passive Optical LAN industry and are focused on formulating solutions on how best to market, install, educate, and support this burgeoning field.
The new organization's website already has some good technical information on OLANs.

APOLAN
105 East 34th Street, Suite 103, New York, NY 10016
E-mail: : contact@apolanglobal.org
APOLAN website http://www.apolanglobal.org/

CI&M OLAN Webinar Now Available Online

FOA, working with Cabling Installation and Maintenance magazine, presented our third webinar for them- this time on OLANs. The webinar covered the history of cabling for LANs and look at the evolution of cabling for today's high speed networks. More on the webinar at http://www.cablinginstall.com/webcasts/2013/03/passive-optical-lans.html Register to view it at http://video.webcasts.com/events/pmny001/viewer/index.jsp?eventid=45518&adid=ws

OLANs - Resources

Over the last couple of years, we've written a lot about all-optical LANs, either based on FTTH passive optical network (PON) or point-to-point (P2P) Ethernet architecture. The more we see of these types of networks, the more we appreciate their design and economy. But how about scale - how big can they get?
In November, we ran a picture story about the new San Diego Central Library which is using a Tellabs optical LAN using PON technology that was using about 1000 4 port drops. Now we hear another Tellabs customer has over 16,000 users. That must make it one of the biggest LANs in the world.

Here are more sources of information on optical LANs - BTW, they need a name - let's start calling them OLANs!

FOA Guide Page on OLANs and FOA YouTube Video

Tellabs

Motorola

Cliff Walker's FTTO paper

3M on POLs

And the new FOA Lecture 30, OLANs, Optical LANs

Have a safe and enjoyable Labor Day Holiday as we close out the summer. The months ahead will give us new challenges and we’ll bring all the news you can use directly to your screen.

NEVER EVER DRIVE WHILE TEXTING. No Excuses.

Frank Bisbee - Editor

"HOTS - Heard On The Street" Monthly Column

www.wireville.com

4949 Sunbeam Rd, Suite 16

Jacksonville, FL 32257

(904) 442-2741 DIRECT

frank@wireville.com

ADVANTAGES OF FIBER OPTICS - Performance at ultra high performance requires a new set of rules

Whatever the application, there are numerous advantages to using optical fiber, the most important of which is bandwidth. When one designs a system addressing future bandwidth demands is critical. Fortunately there are multiple types of optical fibers designed to meet future bandwidth needs. In many cases, network operators can increase the bandwidth of their existing fiber simply by changing terminal equipment.

Another benefit of fiber optics is its low signal attenuation. In addition, signal attenuation in copper cables increases with frequency, so the more information you try to force through a copper conductor, the higher the losses. This effect is not nearly as pronounced in fiber optic cables.

WEIGHT and SIZE

A copper cable with 900 pairs carrying 21,000 telephone channels has a diameter of 7 centimeters and weighs 7 metric tons per kilometer. The largest optical cable contains 1728 fibers and can carry almost 450 million equivalent voice circuits when using only one wavelength at 40 gigabits per second and it weighs a fraction of the copper cable.

One of the finer attributes of fiber is its size. Optical fibers are not much thicker than a human hair. Even when fibers are coated and incorporated in cable structures, they are far smaller and lighter than metallic cable. Small size and light-weight makes storage, handling and installation much easier. In most urban areas today, copper cabling has filled existing duct-work to capacity. By using smaller fiber cables, efficient use of inner duct space is ensured.

Noise immunity is also a tremendous benefit. Because glass is an insulator, no electric current can flow through an optical fiber, and because the optical signal cannot pass between fibers, optical cables are immune to both optical and electrical interference.

Excerpted from The Light Brigade’s “Fundamental of Fiber Optics DVD (W-6D-112)”

Fiber Optic Cable

The concept of light transmission has existed since the early 1840’s when French inventors Daniel Colladon and Jacques Babinet demonstrated the guiding of light over distance by refraction.

Approximately ten years later in the mid 1850’s Irish inventor John Tyndall performed a similar demonstration using water fountains. These early experiments led to the development of television when Scottish inventor John Logie Baird demonstrated the transmission of moving images at the London Institute in 1925.

In 1952, UK based physicist Narinder Singh Kapany invented the first actual fiber optical cable based on John Tyndall’s experiments three decades earlier. Thirteen years later in 1965 two British research scientists, Charles Kao and George Hockman working with Standard Telephones and Cables discovered that attenuation of fiber optics was caused by impurities in manufacturing. If the attenuation could be lowered sufficiently, they theorized fiber optics could be used as a practical means of communication.

The attenuation barrier was broken in 1970 by four research scientists working for Corning Glass Works (now Corning Inc.), Robert Maurer, Donald Keck, Peter Schultz, and Frank Zimar.

Advances in Fiber Optic Cable

Within two decades, innovative research pushed the attenuation rate low enough for fiber optics to become the dominant carrier of electronic information.

By the early 1990's as the Internet was becoming popularized in the public realm, fiber optic cables started to be laid around the world with a major push to wire the world in order to provide infrastructure to counter the perceived problems of the Y2K issue.

Today, fiber is present in virtually every nation on the Earth, forming the absolute backbone of the modern communications infrastructure.

We support the concept of Integrated Systems and the use of Fiber Optic cabling to support that goal. In the span of the last decade, we have seen the underside of the fiber optic industry strengthen substantially, but still not enough to replace the copper cabling world.

Over the past 40 years, the USA has “rewired America” several times with obsolete and environmentally irresponsible copper-based cabling. We have suffered at the hands of misguided folks armed with outlandish claims from chemical cartels in both Codes and Standard bodies.

Deceptive and misleading claims continue to be the basis for the net results in our premise networks. Today, in the USA we have about 16.2 million miles of premise cables installed in the workplace. Most of that cable may be considered toxic HAZMAT and incapable of delivering the performance requirements of the commercial world over the coming decade. We need a program to get the positive message to the public.

FTTH - FIBER TO THE HOME (AND WORKPLACE) will have a huge value to our future economic potential. Many industry observers have compared the next decade in networks to the post WWII implementation of the Interstate Highway System. Getting that message out is a real challenge as we compete for media exposure with the super-funded commercial entities that are heavily invested in the copper-based buggy whip production/distribution business model.

We (Integrated Systems Contractors & Designers) try to educate and illuminate the future, while the copper cable clowns (kicking & screaming) try to squeeze every last dollar from their obsolete technology.

NOTE: Reports from the industry indicate that the chemical companies make more profit on a 100’ box of CAT6 4pr UTP copper-based datacom cable than the cable manufacturer or the distributor.

Imagine a world with automated “Smart Buildings” interlinked in Smart Communities and so on…. We can do this with FIBER OPTIC technology. I believe the fiber optic cabling sector is capable of replacing the millions of miles of installed copper cables in the workplace over the next two decades. The technology continues to improve and the fiber industry expands with justifiable strength.

I believe that fiber optic cable will gradually replace virtually all of the copper cabling in the process of addressing the constant churn of MACs (Moves, Adds, and Changes). Installed costs of both technologies are nearly in parity at current costs. Why would you install a “buggy whip?” If we look at the full picture of costs, fiber has a legitimate advantage. I could go on and on…

Communications Network Backbone

Optical Fiber is used in place of metal wire for many reasons including its ability to carry signals over very long distances with minimal attenuation or loss. They are also immune to electromagnetic interference, unlike the metal wires they are increasingly replacing.

Used primarily as the backbone of the modern telecommunications grid, the advent of Fiber Optics allowed for universal broadband Internet access for homes and businesses around the world.

During the early days of the commercial Internet, hundreds of thousands of kilometers of fiber optic cables were laid, much of which is still not in use (known as Dark Fiber). That mass of fiber optic cable is credited with the rise of India and China as major technological powers because it allows literally thousands of individual entrepreneurs to find or create employment for themselves serving clients in other countries thousands of kilometers away.

Single and Multimode Fiber Optic Cable

Fiber optic cable works to transmit light because the hollow, round glass (or sometimes plastic) wires reflect the light back to the core of the wire, causing the cable to act as a waveguide.

Fibers that support multiple propagation paths are called Multimode Fibers (MMF). MMF cable is generally used for short distance communication or in applications where large amounts of power are required.

Fibers that support a single mode are called Single Mode Fibers. This tends to be the type of fiber optical wire used in high-speed data transfer and as the backbone of the Internet.

The apparent top technology is single mode fiber to the workzone and in many cases to the desktop. Under these design criteria, the Single Mode Fiber Optic cabling would extend the LAN network to a hub device in the terminal workzone. Copper patchcords could plug into the hub from the desktop PCs or other devices.

Like the proverbial buggy whips, demand for obsolete copper cabling may plummet to the lowest levels ever recorded. Even before this expansion of the fiber optic cable distribution, the FO cable backbone extended to the IDF – Intermediate Distribution Frame (Floor Closet) may reduce copper cable consumption by as much as 42-48%. The copper cable reduction may cause the manufactures to experience reduced revenues to the extent that they will plunge into a sea of red ink.

Carriers And Networks Wrestle With The Upgrades To Fiber Optic Cable.

Beginning in the mid-1980s, fiber optic installations expanded rapidly all over the globe, and generations of improved systems followed quickly one after the other. Fiber had enormously higher capacity, which increased even further with each generation, and much cheaper operating costs. For example, the last copper transatlantic cable, TAT-7, opened in 1978 with a capacity of 4,000 calls; the first fiber cable opened in 1988, with a capacity ten times greater. That was just the beginning of a massive increase in capacity; by the late 1990s, new generations of fiber optic systems could carry millions of calls, though in practice by this time most of what was transmitted was data, and not conversation. Or to put it in data terms, coaxial copper cable carried millions of bits, or megabits, per second; early 1980s fiber optic cable, hundreds of megabits; 1990s fiber, gigabits; and 2000s fiber, terabits.

In the 1980s, engineers assumed that optical cables would replace more expensive copper cables for telephone service, saving money in the process. When the use of the Internet exploded in the 1990s, suddenly there was a great demand for cables that could carry heavy loads of digital data. Optical fiber fit the bill perfectly, and many thousands of miles of new cable have been laid all around the world.

Fiber optics rendered all previous telephone network transmission media obsolete. By 2000, copper wire for the most part persisted only in local loops that ran between telephone exchanges and individual subscribers, and microwave systems had been largely decommissioned. The cost of transmitting a phone call to any place on Earth within reach of a fiber-optic cable rapidly approached zero, thus knitting the planet more closely into a single instant communications web, greatly facilitating global commerce. Among other things, the widespread adoption of fiber optics made the global internet possible.

WIRELESS EVERYWHERE

On top of the need to upgrade the premise LAN capabilities, we face the tsunami of mobile wireless user demand. From spoken-word conversations to real-time video, a dazzling array of communications options are now available at the touch (or click) of a button. This new demand of service from the wireless users pushes the technologies at the heart of fiber-optic communications. We recognize a network demand for Fiber Optic cable backhaul from the cellular tower or node to the network. Add the planned additional traffic from automotive vehicles; we are left with no choice but to eliminate obsolete or soon to be obsolete technologies in the infrastructure. We just do not have the financial resources to build the networks and rebuild it over and over again as each archaic technology crashes against the barrier of obsolescence.

“Building big broadband networks are not just a matter of international competition; it is also economically efficient. Due to the limited dollars available, it is more economically efficient to invest finite resources into networks with virtually-unlimited potential (such as fiber-optic cable) than to invest in the deployment of a multitude of interim technologies whose bandwidth could be overwhelmed by Internet traffic in a few years.

American policy should thus focus on future-proof networks – networks employing technologies that are scalable and adaptable to future growth in demand. Several existing copper-based cabling technologies are limited by physics and geography and will be obsolete in three to five years. Our resources will be better spent on technologies that have a long shelf life." From A Blueprint For Big Broadband.

Over the past several years, the Fiber Optic Cabling Industry has released a host of new optical fiber cable products for use in almost any application that you can name. From cable to connectors, the flood of new products that boggles the imagination. Here are some outstanding examples.

PRYSIAM Indoor-Outdoor Gel-Free Low-Smoke Zero Halogen (LSZH) cables, are 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 PRYSIAM’s extensive single-mode and multimode optical fiber portfolio including BendBright®, PRYSIAM'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.

PRYSMIAM has also released 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"

Milan, Italy - Since Prysmian launched the VertiCasa™ cabling system in 2008 into the North American market the demand has been incredible. Prysmian’s VertiCasa™ system was specifically designed for bringing optical fiber directly into high-rise apartments and office buildings. The heart of the VertiCasa™ system is a new concept in optical cable construction, which allows remarkably easy fiber access and break-out. Prysmian’s VertiCasa™ system has been widely deployed throughout the world. And now, Prysmian has tailored the VertiCasa™ system to meet the specific needs of the North American market.

The VertiCasa™ system provides a fast and flexible means of connecting users in a multiple dwelling unit (MDU) whether for new buildings or retro fitting to existing buildings. The system is built around a special riser cable, from which long lengths of fiber can easily be extracted. Fibers are removed through small breakout windows in the riser cable using Prysmian's patented access method. This allows the riser cable to be installed without slack loops, and requires very little space for fiber access, fiber routing in the vertical riser and horizontal connections. The extracted fibers can be routed directly to individual subscribers without the need for intermediate splices. Various accessories are also available, which allow a wide range of installations in the horizontal space.

This innovative technology has already made VertiCasa™ one of the most appreciated FTTH innovations. This interest has been confirmed by a large number of FTTH projects under way in several locations in Western Europe, The Middle East and Asia. Prysmian is continuing to build upon this successful experience by providing new features developed specifically for the North American market.

The VertiCasa™ system will also be available in conjunction with preconnectorized MDU cables and components in order to provide efficient installations and reduce labor costs. Megladon’s HLC SCRATCHGUARD® connection technology has been known for more than 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 VertiCasa™ system also offers a full spectrum of bend-tolerant fibers, including Prysmian's leading-edge CasaLight™ Xtreme fiber. In the most demanding applications, CasaLight™ Xtreme can be used for bend radii as small as 5mm. VertiCasa™ drop cables containing CasaLight™ Xtreme have been designed to withstand sharp 90 degree bends under tension and installation with staple guns. CasaLight™ Xtreme exceeds the requirements of ITU-T Recommendation G.657.B, while remaining fully compatible with G.652 fiber. This allows customers to choose the ideal fiber for each network segment, thereby optimizing the optical and economic performance of their network design.

The VertiCasa™ system comprises all supporting accessories and connectivity products necessary to complete the full installation from main fiber distribution point, generally in the basement of the MDU, through to the end user.

Prysmian is a leading global supplier of Optical Fibers and Communication Cables. With multiple production facilities worldwide Prysmian supplies a comprehensive portfolio of state-of-the-art products into the communications industry, including: Optical Fiber, Optical Cable, Fiber to the Home Solutions, Premises Data Cables, & Connectivity Hardware. Headquartered in Lexington, SC, the Communication Cables and Systems division serves the United States, Canadian, and Mexican markets.

The Challenge To Connect Fiber Optic Cables

As another example of available solutions consider this unique product: 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 more than 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.

Fiber Optic Connections plus TAILOR MADE SOLUTIONS from Megladon Mfg.

A few years ago, if a network engineer wanted a configuration that was not a standard product, the only solution was CUSTOM MADE (also read EXPENSIVE). Today, due to the flexibility of many of the newest FO products, engineers can approach manufacturers like Megladon Mfg and outline their needs to get tailored solutions at much lower costs than the CUSTOM designs of the past. John Culbert (Megladon Mfg) told us “Cabinets and panels can be configured to your needs… easily and without paying those big CUSTOM prices. Just call us and let us know what you need the equipment to do.” www.megladonmfg.com or call John Culbert direct 512-615-4687

For the maximum value and best barrier to obsolescence, you need to make your invest extend into the future of Integrated Systems, Multi-Tasking, and Automated “Smart” Buildings. Do the math. You will agree.

Article from CI&M magazine - Patch cords can’t afford to be a weak link by Patrick McLaughlin

Solid performance of every segment in an end-to-end cabling system is growing more important than ever.

By Patrick McLaughlin

At a time when an increasing amount of precision is required to accurately install and terminate a structured cabling system in the field, the economic pressures of price and low-margin business are dangling the temptation for cabling-system stakeholders to use potentially underperforming patch cords in their networks. When one gives in to that temptation, and network performance eventually suffers as a result, the perception of patch cords as a cabling system’s weak link is perpetuated. Such is the reputation of that portion of the cabling system that is most visible to the everyday user at a workstation, who knows or cares little about the cabling system that facilitates connectivity to a corporate network and to the outside world. By and large these users view patch cords only as nuisance speed bumps as they wheel their chairs around a workspace. A network cabling-system administrator, on the other hand, takes more serious and critical consideration of the cords used in the work area as well as equipment cords used in telecommunications rooms. At least, we hope these administrators take such consideration.

Bad press?

Typically patch cords make headlines, with us and with other cabling-related news and information sources, for unfortunate reasons. Every now and then Underwriters Laboratories (www.ul.com) issues a public notice about patch cables that use its (UL’s) mark without authorization. It issued the most recent such notice a little more than a year ago, in March 2012, bringing the public’s attention to Category 5e cables, as well as USB 2.0 cables, sold at Big Lots stores under the brand name TriQuest, that “bear an unauthorized UL Mark on the product packaging.” As is typically the case when UL issues such a notice, it added, “The products have not been evaluated by UL to the applicable standard for safety and it is unknown if they comply with the UL safety requirements.” In its notice, UL reported there were 95,120 units of the patch cable produced.

With UL not having issued a notice of this type in more than a year, is the circulation of this type of patch cable an anecdote, or an example of a more-widespread problem? Caution and prudence would suggest it being viewed as the latter. Two points of fact about these notices from UL are worth considering. First, the organization only issues a notice when its brand and markings are used incorrectly. A patch cord that does not perform at the level stated on its packaging, but does not use the UL mark, will not be on UL’s radar. And second, UL exhausts multiple efforts to reach and work with a manufacturer before issuing a public notice. Before such a notice is issued, UL has been unable to satisfactorily resolve the issue with the manufacturer. In some cases, the manufacturer and UL have had no discourse at all, with UL’s efforts to communicate being unsuccessful. With that in mind, it is plausible that some manufacturers are responsive to UL’s inquiries and the issue is resolved without a public notice being issued. So the idea that anytime a rogue patch cord reaches the market, UL issues a notice about it, is false.

Many-headed beast

The existence of substandard patch cords in the marketplace was addressed in an article we published in January 2012. Authored by comCables’ (www.comcables.com) Andy Work and Tom McAllister, the article was titled “The patch-cord conundrum: Corrosion versus conformity.” In it, the authors explained, “Quality, as well as code- and standard-compliance, has a price tag. A high-priced patch cord does not mean it is standards-based and will pass the performance requirements; however, price is the first indicator to help guide your decision … Typically patch cords are not supplied by the structured cabling installer, nor are they found on the request-for-quote. Patch cords are usually supplied by the end-user’s IT department after the installation is complete. Projects are not awarded for their patch-cord prowess; typically they are won on price and performance.

“It is ironic how a company will build a multi-million-dollar facility with new networking hardware, then the IT department will box up their old patch cords and reinstall them. If the cords are not reused, they are sourced off the Internet for the cheapest ones to be found, or worse, the cords are home-made.”

In the field

That issue of field-made patch cords is debatable. Naturally, a company like comCables that factory-produces and tests patch cords will caution against the act of field-terminating two plugs on the end of a length of patch cable, pointing out the absence of quality-control measures in such an approach. Another viewpoint is put forth as well, though. For example, LANshack (www.lanshack.com), which provides cable, connectors, installation tools and numerous other products, includes tutorials on its website about how to properly construct Category 5, 5e and 6 patch cords.

Within LANshack’s tutorial is a caution about the potential for substandard performance. It reads, “If the completed assembly does not pass continuity, you may have a problem in one or both ends.” The tutorial then advises to recrimp and examine the assembly and if necessary, to reterminate.

Whether they are constructed in the factory or the field, testing patch cords for continuity, or wiremap, alone has been regarded as insufficient by companies including comCables and Fluke Networks (www.flukenetworks.com). In their article, Work and McAllister said, “The only way to really know that a patch cord has been manufactured to standards is to test it. Or you can choose to buy patch cords exclusively from manufacturers that performance-test 100 percent of their products using the correct test method before shipment is made.”

The authors also call out a common myth—that users can test patch cords for standard performance using the channel adapters that come with Fluke Networks’ DTX 1800 tester. “A channel test is a lenient test for patch cords because it includes significant leeway for all component parts of the end-to-end system.”

Fluke Networks agrees with that sentiment—so much so that in spring 2011 it introduced a patch-cord test adapter for the DTX tester. The DTX Patch Cord Test Adapter series can certify twisted-pair patch cords, shielded or unshielded, to Category 5e, 6 and 6A component specifications established in TIA-568-C and ISO 11801 standards. With the adapters, a user can test patch cord parameters including wiremap, length, propagation delay, delay skew, near-end crosstalk, resistance and return loss. When announcing the adapters the company explained they are appropriate for field and factory use.

In a data sheet for the adapter series, Fluke Networks explained, “Most cords are only tested for wiremap, not performance—in spite of what may be indicated on the jacket. Channel certification shows the performance of the completed end-to-end link including equipment and work area patch cords. Permanent link certification shows the true performance of the installed link without the cords. This is very common because it’s the most practical and accurate way to certify new cabling links, but it is dependent on compliant patch cords. Patch cord certification can quickly determine whether a patch cord meets industry performance specifications.”

Some providers of factory-manufactured patch cords have taken steps not only to encourage the use of factory cords, but also to make it easier for users to acquire them. One example is Leviton Network Solutions’ (www.leviton.com/networksolutions) fall 2012 launch of an online copper patch cord customization tool, which allows customers to configure cords for their specific applications by selecting cord type, color and exact length. Specifically, nine cord types, eight jacket colors and 200 lengths are available to choose from. After selecting their options, customers each receive a part number for each unique cord, along with specific ordering details.

Leviton Network Solutions senior product manager Kirk Krahn said the tool was launched “to make it simpler for our customers to select the exact cords they need for their network. Our custom patch cords reduce installation costs and eliminate the waste and tangle of excess cord lengths by allowing customers to select the appropriate length for their application.”

Being direct

Discussion about field-production of patch cords is an interesting topic, and when the topic is debated an issue frequently discussed is the precision workmanship required to produce a cord that complies with demanding standard-based electrical performance characteristics. Wherever the skill to achieve such performance does exist, it can be valuable in several ways, including a field-termination style that is gaining attention and use in the structured cabling industry.

The Single Connector Modified Permanent Link connection method frequently is referred to as direct-attach. Under this method, horizontal cable is terminated to a modular plug rather than to a jack. So it would be inaccurate to say direct-attach terminations are really just lengthy patch cords, because just one end of the horizontal cable is terminated to a plug. Even so, the skill required to effectively achieve that termination method is the same skill put to use when one attempts to field-construct a patch cord.

Graybar dedicates a page on its website (www.graybar.com/directattach) to this connection method, including a white paper, video demonstration of the attachment method, and test results of direct-attach systems. Karl Griffith, director of emerging technology and author of the white paper, explained in it: “Direct attach was designed to help network architects and technicians leverage both their skill in communications wiring systems and UTP as the cable of choice for building facility-system networks … Many non-user administered IP devices are mounted in places high on walls, or on or in ceilings. In these locations the typical configuration isn’t practical for installation and maintenance … The direct attach philosophy aims to decrease the safety hazards and configuration issues encountered with non-user administered IP devices by installing the modular plug directly on the end of the cable servicing the IP device, therefore eliminating the jack, faceplate and patch cord.”

While the method may indeed eliminate the need for patch cords to connect some networked devices, it simultaneously can shine light on the need for sufficient skill in the installation environment, to successfully terminate twisted-pair cable to a plug.

PATRICK McLAUGHLIN
Chief Editor
patrick@pennwell.com

Reprinted with permission from CI&M - Cabling Installation & Maintenance Magazine – a leading publication for structured cabling and networking for over 20 years. CI&M magazine is a PennWell publication. Check out their powerful web seminars

www.cablinginstall.com

Article from CI&M magazine - Why ‘multi-everything’ is normal for cabling-certification

Today’s contractors must be able to manage multiple environments, media, standards and technologies in order to succeed.

By Jason Wilbur, Fluke Networks

Today’s information technology (IT) discussions are filled with terms like cloud, virtualization, SAN, SaaS and SLA. Rarely is the physical layer part of the buzz, but as we know in our industry, all network technologies lead back to that critical, foundational layer and the cabling infrastructure that supports it. Like the technologies around it, Layer 1 of the seven-layer OSI Model is changing. Consultants and network owners who do not embrace this change by addressing the mounting complexities of installation and certification will struggle for profitability and the very survival as a business.

This article explores the state of the cabling industry—where it has been and where it is going—and evaluates what it takes to succeed in the face of an exponentially greater need for cabling contractors to manage multiple environments, media, standards and technologies. This “multi-everything” world is the new normal. What do cabling professionals need to do differently to ensure success and profitability? And what is needed to properly navigate the changing landscape of media, standards and more? Furthermore, how can we as a professional community change the project-management game? This article will explore these possibilities.

Changing environment

The physical setup of data centers as we have known them is changing. The archetypal data center design, including a three-tier network architecture of access, aggregation and core switches, has been common for years. But significant changes are afoot. Standalone storage and servers have been virtualized; that virtualization drives increased density and subsequent demand for better performance within the data center. The three-tier architecture is collapsing into a single-hop network fabric that promises to help deliver dramatically better performance. Organizations are starting to displace proprietary switches with software-defined networks (SDNs) built on commodity hardware and open-source traffic-management software.

In networks’ horizontal legs, Ethernet connections are being overlaid by an increasing number of WiFi-connected devices. The era of bring your own device (BYOD) is having a significant impact on networks. Issues including propagation, interference, rogue access, constant evolution and others, WiFi adds strain and complexity to the underlying infrastructure.

Additionally, for the past decade 1-Gbit/sec copper connections have been extremely effective. These cables are common, inexpensive, relatively straightforward to install and repeatedly test, and have been fast enough for most needs. But this era is coming to a close, as the networking industry moves from 1-Gbit/sec copper to 10-Gbit/sec copper and 40- and even 100-Gbit/sec fiber. As more data travels over each connection, each cable is increasingly more critical.

Evolving challenges

The issue of evolving standards further complicates matters. Where Category 5 used to rule, now users have options including Category 5, 6, 6A or 7 for copper, as well as multiple types of fiber. A broad range of industry standards, measurement and compliance requirements also exist in a virtual alphabet soup that includes such acronyms as TIA, ISO, EF, TCL, CDNEXT, TCLT, ELTCTL and more. Further, for WiFi there’s 802.11a, b, g and n—with ac coming soon and ad further on the horizon. Going away is the notion: “Pull this Category 6 and connect it to the server rack; pull this Category 6 and connect it to the switch; pull this Category 5e for the LAN.”

At the same time, those responsible for deploying and maintaining this infrastructure—cable installers, project managers, network administrators and others—face limited resources. With time and money as obvious constraints, they need to get more done, faster, and for less. A reality that can go unrecognized in these situations is the twin constraints of manpower and expertise. Fewer trained personnel are available to do certain work—specifically in terms of the ratio of installer to installation—and those who are available may have limited expertise. The divide between project managers and technicians or installers continues to grow. Project managers often have professional certifications and substantial expertise across a range of installation and testing requirements, while techs or installers often have more-limited training, isolated expertise, and in some cases may even be temporary workers.

Amid the environment that includes more-complex cabling projects and limited resources to facilitate those installations, the volume of cable installation and certification is still high. According to surveys, nearly 95 percent of cabling contractors expect to certify the same or a higher volume of links next year as this year. Specifically, 59 percent expect the number of links installed to remain the same, and 34 percent expect the number to increase. Of course testing and certification are key requirements for these installations, for more reasons than just the obvious need to make sure everything works. Generally certification reports are required for payment, to comply with manufacturer warranties, and to facilitate troubleshooting.

With high volumes of work and scarcity of resources, contracting organizations commonly deploy roaming install/test teams and separate service teams. As a practical matter, this approach can separate the personnel with the ability to fix a faulty link from the personnel who will discover those faults during testing. When a fault is found and cannot be fixed immediately, work stalls. A recent survey of installers showed 55 percent of them move their test equipment several times per month—not just from one site to another, but also back again.

Surveys conducted by Fluke Networks of its customers showed that 91 percent of U.S.-based installers, 90 percent of Asian-based installers and 97 percent of European-based installers report at least one problem occurring within the most recent 30-day period. More than half of the installers from the U.S. and Europe reported seven or more problems over the time period. More than half of the installers in Asia reported 10 or more problems within 30 days.

It is important to remember that while many of those problems are issues with the cable or installation itself, they are just as likely to be errors in process. The potential for process errors is significant, and when it comes to certification these errors can include incorrect test limits, misconfigurations or parameters, test data spread across multiple testers, mismatched results, incomplete testing or reporting and more. The mobility of test instruments (from one worksite to another and often back again) can be a significant contributing factor to many of these process errors.

And of course these problems for installers add up in the form of lost productivity. The survey data shows that on average, a 1,000-link project in the U.S. includes 45 hours spent resolving cable-infrastructure issues. In Asia an average of 61 hours is spent resolving cable-related issues per 1,000-link project. And in Europe the average is 26 hours per 1,000-link project.

Crossover point?

The opposing forces of increasingly complexity and thinly stretched expertise appear to be on a collision course. The implication is that if something does not change, then some other factor has to give. Continued-increasing complexity without commensurately increasing resources will result in a steady increase in either time or cost per installation. Either it will take longer to test and certify links—thereby slowing growth until volume, complexity and resources reach an unsteady equilibrium—or the cost will begin to rise, allowing additional expertise and resources to catch up to the growth in volume and complexity.

Clearly, better efficiency and agility are needed, including among the tools used for certification. Tools that can assume a larger role in the installation process will have a greater impact on the installation contractor’s business. Over the past decade, the nature of that efficiency and impact has evolved. For the past 10 years or so speed (coupled with accuracy and reliability) has been an extremely valuable asset that a certification tool can deliver to a user. But the evolution of the industry as described in this article provides a new opportunity to wring time, cost, complexity and errors out of the rest of the certification process.

The certification process can be divided into six steps. Here, I describe those six steps as they realistically exist for many of today’s complex projects.

1. Planning—Typically left to the project manager. Today most installers manage the testing and certification of multiple jobs simultaneously, each with multiple teams, test tools and requirements. This complexity can lead to costly errors.

2. Setup—Ensuring the requirements are known and the tool is correctly configured. Multiple media types and varying standards are just some of the complexities affecting setup. Often frontline technicians either need to wait for a particular expert to set up the tool, or risk making errors that require rework.

3. Testing—It can always be faster, but current testers’ speed is such that the ability to gain a significant advantage in this part of the process is limited. Greater gains can be had elsewhere.

4. Troubleshooting—Varying technician skill-level, or the very lack of familiarity with certain installation types or standards, often mean project delays until the required expertise is available.

5. Reporting—The bane of the installation in many ways. It is increasingly complex, with multiple testers, teams, standards and test regimes involved. Generating the correct reports is a time-consuming process when all goes correctly. But this is also the point at which errors and oversights from earlier in the process become apparent, causing delays.

6. System acceptance—A growing challenge for customers. Installers who are quite familiar with cabling can be overwhelmed by the increasing complexity. End-user customers, especially those not as familiar with cabling, easily can be overwhelmed by multiple complex reports, varying test regimes and more factors.

Certification’s future

One possible answer to today’s demanding requirements is to add more expert project managers to the process. They could apply the insight, training and oversight needed to eliminate errors and improve efficiency. This option, however, is not economically feasible in many circumstances. In those cases, another solution is a testing tool that can help take on that role, managing the test process as well as the test itself.

A test solution with these capabilities is more agile, has the ability to address all six steps in the certification process, and can manage multiple testing scenarios. To solve the multiple challenges that exist in today’s certification environment, a tool will need to be built from the ground up for the “multi” environment. If it is built that way, it can help project managers and technicians meet the evolving challenges associated with cable certification.

Editor’s Note: This article is derived from the white paper entitled “The New Normal: Multi-Everything—The State of the Cabling Certification Industry.” That paper was written in support of Fluke Networks’ launch of its Versiv family of copper and fiber-optic certification tools. The unedited white paper is available at www.flukenetworks.com.

Jason Wilbur is vice president and general manager of Fluke Networks’ data-communications installer business unit (www.flukenetworks.com).

Jason Wilbur, vice president and general manager of Fluke Networks’ data-communications cabling installation business, commented, “When doing cabling installation and certification, the difference between having a job be profitable versus a loss is oftentimes just a few percentage points. In 2004 we defined the certification market with the introduction of the DTX, which was focused on certification testing speed. But today’s challenges have changed and our customers must improve their agility and reduce errors when working across multiple mediums, codes and projects. The Versiv family is focused on helping our contractors profitably manage the complexities that are now part of their new normal.”

Wilbur elaborated on that concept in an interview with Cabling Installation & Maintenance. He explained, “Today’s contractors have to deal with a number of multiples—multiple projects being handled simultaneously, multiple types of infrastructure, multiple industry standards, multiple varieties of tools used for reporting, and multiple complex measurements being made.”

With so many proverbial moving parts, the project scheduling, deployment and commissioning processes are prone to error. And when errors occur, they negatively impact the project’s profitability for the contractor. Hence the emphasis Fluke Networks is placing on this new testing platform’s ability to simplify the complex, thereby significantly limiting any project’s susceptibility to error. (In a white paper, Fluke Networks outlines results of its own research into the frequency of errors among contractors around the globe, and the impact of those errors on business profitability. We intend to provide detail on these findings in a future issue.)

The Versiv platform comprises four test solutions, two of which already exist in Fluke Networks’ portfolio and two of which are new. The company’s existing OptiFiber Pro and OneTouch AT test products now exist in the form of modules for Versiv. Additionally, the platform includes new testers CertiFiber Pro Plus, an optical-loss test set (OLTS) and DSX 5000 CableAnalyzer, Fluke Networks’ next-generation copper-cabling test instrument.

A key capability of Versiv’s fiber-test functions is the Set Reference Wizard, which automatically zeroes out the reference cords—saving installers the burden and potential confusion of having to do so.

The DSX-5000 is a 1-GHz test instrument that meets the proposed ISO Level V accuracy specifications, enabling it to certify Level FA (Category 7A) cabling systems. The tester’s characteristics also include a 10-second Category 6A test, as well as the ability to test a system’s balance.

More detail is sure to follow from Fluke Networks about each test module’s particular capabilities. The overarching theme of the company’s Versiv release is that any or all of these tester types (OLTS, OTDR, network assistance, copper-cabling certifier) can be used interchangeably within the Versiv chassis. That, along with the software-based test-reporting and project-management functions, provides a simple and flexible tool that can drive down errors and positively impact a contractor’s bottom line, Fluke Networks says.

PATRICK McLAUGHLIN
Chief Editor
patrick@pennwell.com

www.cablinginstall.com

Article from CI&M magazine - Progressive technology on exhibit at iconic art museum by Bob Carlson of The Siemon Company

Category 6A and Category 7A cabling equip the St. Louis Art Museum for today and the future.

By Robert Carlson, The Siemon Company

Forest Park in the heart of St. Louis has hosted its share of events throughout its 137-year history, including the 1904 World’s Fair and Summer Olympics. Now home to a variety of attractions like the St. Louis Zoo, Science Center and Missouri History Museum, this 1,371-acre public space recently hosted another event—the privately funded $130-million expansion of the iconic St. Louis Art Museum (SLAM).

Over the past 125 years, SLAM has acquired collections that place it among the ten most comprehensive art museums in the country. With more than half a million visitors each year viewing works from distinguished artists like Martisse, Van Gogh, Picasso, Monet and Gauguin, SLAM had outgrown its main building that was originally constructed for the 1904 World’s Fair. SLAM’s expansion includes a new 224,000-square-foot East Building that increases the museum’s public space by more than 30 percent, expanded education facilities in the South Building, 300 additional parking spaces and a new fully accessible entrance.

Designed in keeping with the original 1904 structured by the independent firm Arup (www.arup.com), the expansion project also includes extensive improvements to the entire museum that address existing infrastructure deficiencies, including the network cabling infrastructure. While few can see the relationship between classic works of art and state-of-the-art networking, Jason Stockmann, SLAM’s director of information technology, knew he needed the right cabling infrastructure solution to support the museum’s technology objectives.

A new specification

When it came to designing the cabling infrastructure for the museum, Stockmann and the design engineering firm of William Tao & Associations (www.wmtao.com) felt the original Category 5e specification with a maximum 1-Gbit/sec transmission rate was a very “watered down” version of what would be required to support the museum’s objective of a converged Internet Protocol (IP) network.

“While we never tell our clients what to use, if they are considering a technology that is on the way out, or if the applications being considered call for something else, we work with the client to suggest the right technology for their needs,” says Janis Christopher, RCDD, telecommunications project engineer with William Tao & Associates. The firm also designed the lighting, audio/visual, sound, security, building-automation, fire-protection and plumbing systems for the project and provided Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) design and management services.

In addition to voice and data, the museum wanted to deploy IP-based security, audio/visual, video, lighting, environmental controls, adjustable shades and parking-garage security with complete remote-control capabilities.

“We planned for museum lighting to be automatically controlled via servers on the network, as well as all environmental controls, like boilers and chillers,” said Stockmann. “We have very strict temperature and humidity controls to protect the precious antiquities inside the building. The cabling infrastructure needed to be the foundation of the facility, while providing the capability to support technologies well into the future, which at some point will include free WiFi access for museum visitors.”

As a believer in standards-based technology, Stockmann wanted a cabling solution that would serve as a strong backbone for all current and future networking capabilities that the museum required, even if they had not yet been identified. During the early planning stage for the museum expansion, Tony Campbell, regional sales manager for Siemon and an art enthusiast, developed a relationship with Stockmann and educated the museum’s information technology (IT) department on network cabling infrastructure solutions capable of supporting their vision for the next 20 years.

“I sought to completely future-proof the process, and I knew that Siemon could help us do that,” said Stockmann. “The goal was to eliminate the possibility of a sub-standard, high-cost, inefficient design that might require removal and replacement of the cabling infrastructure in the future as needs expanded.”

Stockmann worked with William Tao and Siemon to upgrade the original specification to a Category 6A shielded solution able to support 10-Gbit/sec transmission. Working within the constraints of the project budget, Stockmann had to rally for implementation of the higher-performing solution and ensure careful planning and execution to stay within budget. He was able to highlight the higher long-term cost that the originally specified Category 5e solution would require, illustrating how a shielded solution supports multiple generations of networking applications and would not restrict the museum’s ability to progress technologically.

“We didn’t know exactly what applications and what type of art exhibits would be deployed at the museum, including the potential for electronic media exhibits that could potentially introduce interference,” said Christopher. “With its superior resistance to EMI [electromagnetic interference] and RFI [radio-frequency interference], we felt that shielded cabling would give them the ultimate protection. Due to the architecture and having to deal with existing pathways and coffered ceilings, the size of the pathway was also a concern. The smaller diameter of the shielded cable was therefore another benefit to consider.”

The right components

The museum was required to seek competitive bids and reviewing the various responses to the request for information (RFIs) proved challenging. “Some vendors tried to substitute lower-end solutions and substandard warranties, which we absolutely did not want,” said Stockmann. “At the end of the day, Siemon provided not only competitive pricing and a carefully orchestrated specification and implementation, but also offered us a rock-solid warranty.” Siemon provided SLAM with an end-to-end 20-year system warranty covering products, performance margins and applications assurance. Additional benefits included Siemon’s comprehensive quality-control procedures and no outsourcing for manufacturing, which offered Buy American compliance.

To support voice, data, IP security and building- and environmental-control systems throughout the museum from 26 strategically placed telecommunications rooms (TRs), SLAM deployed a Siemon ConvergeIT solution consisting of a Z-Max Category 6A shielded end-to-end cabling system. Able to easily support 10-Gbit/sec transmission, Siemon’s Z-Max 6A shielded system is independently tested and provides high margins over all TIA and ISO/IEC performance requirements for Category 6A, including critical alien-crosstalk parameters. The system consists of shielded Z-Max 6A outlets, Category 6A F/UTP cable, shielded Z-Max patch panels and shielded patch cords. Shielded Z-Max connecting hardware features a unique, patented printed circuit board (PCB)-based plug design that maintains pair symmetry and eliminates termination variability, and a punchdown connection that eliminates split and crossed pairs. Z-Max connectors also provide a termination time of less than one minute, automatically terminating the cable shield without additional steps.

For the renovated education center in the South Building, the museum implemented an even higher-performing solution—Siemon's TERA Category 7A fully shielded solution, which exceeds ISO/IEC Category 7A/Class FA specifications and provides a bandwidth of 1.2 GHz per pair, as well as cable-sharing capabilities. Cable sharing is the practice of running more than one application over different pairs of a twisted-pair copper cable. When using the TERA Category 7A connector that eliminates split pairs, up to four applications can be shared over a single cable. The TERA connector can accept a single four-pair cord, four one-pair cords, or two two-pair cords without the need for splitters or adapters, allowing various applications to be converged onto a single cable.

“In designing the new education center with its three classrooms and flexible open space, we considered the fact that the museum did not know exactly what type of technologies and applications would need to be supported by the connection—it could be a projector, video display, computer or phone,” said Christopher. “We had the experience with the TERA Category 7A solution and cable sharing in our own facility, and we knew that the versatility of the system was a good match for this space. The dynamic interface of the TERA Category 7A system and its ability to support multiple applications over a single cable would allow the museum to use the connections for whatever they needed without having to add additional cables in the future.”

Within the data center that connects to each of the museum’s 26 TRs via 12 strands of Siemon XGLO laser-optimized 50-micron multimode fiber, fiber connections between switches are made with Siemon’s Plug and Play system. This system features trunk cables that consist of Siemon’s RazorCore 50-micron laser-optimized multimode fiber cable, factory-terminated to 12-fiber MTP brand connectors, thereby providing rapid installation and deployment. In keeping with SLAM’s eye on the future, the MTP fiber trunks and connectors also support easy migration to future speeds of 40 and 100 Gbits/sec.

Two 12-fiber MTP trunks are connected to the rear of each Plug and Play module that breaks out to 24 Siemon duplex LC connections at the front of the module. Siemon’s XLR8 prepolished mechanical-splice LC connectors were terminated using the XLR8 termination tool, which incorporates an exclusive dual-process activation that significantly reduces termination time. Within the museum data center, active and passive equipment is housed in Siemon’s RS3 series cable management rack system that eases routing of cabling and patch cords, and includes covered vertical channels for a clean, professional look.

With the help of Siemon’s technical support team, SLAM also deployed a fiber-to-the-desk application to the new information desk in the main hall. To preserve the original marble floor in this area, Siemon provided a surface-mount fiber solution using a customized flush-mount box under the marble tile that terminated MTP fiber in the floor. This allowed SLAM to maintain the plug-and-play MTP application and support future migration beyond 10 Gbits/sec.

Ready for tomorrow

In addition to enhancing the infrastructure of the century-old building, the expansion of SLAM creates a new gallery space for collections, and expands and improves visitor amenities. The additional gallery space has also given curators the opportunity to rethink the way the museum’s world-class collections are installed.

The expansion also aimed to construct a building with a distinctive architectural character that complements the existing facilities, takes advantage of the museum’s spectacular site in Forest Park and ensures environmental sustainability. The new East Building features a dark, polished concrete façade as well as new galleries and public spaced with skylights, and a number of floor-to-ceiling windows to provide views from both inside and outside. Upon completion, the museum received LEED Gold certification for the project, which helps support sustainability of the Forest Park area—all supported by a Siemon ConvergeIT cabling systems using a single, simplified structured cabling infrastructure for a smarter, greener building.

“Being based here in St. Louis and having a lot of pride in the Forest Park area and its history, we were honored to be a part of the SLAM expansion project,” said Christopher. “Having always been an icon on the hill, the museum is more spectacular than ever before.”

The museum scheduled a June 29^th opening with a grand celebration including a gala and ribbon-cutting ceremony, and Stockmann is confident the Siemon cabling infrastructure William Tao designed will support the museum’s technology needs for many years to come. “This infrastructure gives us the capability to handle anything that comes our way for probably more than 25 years,” he said. “Any limitations in bandwidth will be with the outside services coming to the building, not with the structured cabling inside.”

Stockmann enjoyed working with Siemon, and ultimately had his IT team become Siemon Certified Installers (CIs) to be able to install additional network locations and better maintain and manage the infrastructure, while maintaining the warranty. “From our very first conversation through today, the depth of pride and enthusiasm that Siemon has had for this project is evident in every aspect,” he said. “From identifying the appropriate copper and fiber solutions right down to the face plates and the training, working with Siemon was seamless. Like the invaluable artwork adorning our walls, the cabling inside those walls is equally riveting. But cabling isn’t just cabling—it’s the people behind it that make the difference, and Siemon definitely made a difference.”

Robert Carlson is vice president of global marketing for The Siemon Company (www.siemon.com).

Visit www.siemon.com/lcbp.

About Siemon

Established in 1903, Siemon is an industry leader specializing in the design and manufacture of high quality, high performance network cabling solutions and services for Data Centers and Intelligent Buildings. Headquartered in Connecticut, USA, with global sales, technical and logistics expertise spanning 100 countries, Siemon offers the most comprehensive suite of copper and optical fiber cabling systems, cabinets, racks, cable management, data center power and cooling systems and Intelligent Infrastructure Management solutions. With more than 400 patents specific to structured cabling, Siemon Labs invests heavily in R&D and the development of Industry Standards, underlining the company’s long-standing commitment to its customers and the industry.

PATRICK McLAUGHLIN
Chief Editor
patrick@pennwell.com

www.cablinginstall.com

CommScope files for IPO

August 5, 2013, CommScope, which was a publicly traded company before being acquired and taken private by Carlyle Group, has filed Form S-1 Registration Statement for Proposed IPO [initial public offering] with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Several sources report the IPO will be valued at $750 million. CommScope has been a major player in the network industry for many years.

“CommScope intends to use the net proceeds from the offering to redeem a portion of CommScope Inc.’s 8.25 percent senior notes due 2019 and to pay related fees, expenses, and premiums,” CommScope said in a statement announcing the filing, “with the remainder of the proceeds to be used for general corporate purposes.”

The announcement also indicated the securities to be offered in the IPO will include shares to be issued and sold by CommScope as well as shares to be sold by a current stockholder of CommScope.

In October 2010, CommScope agreed to a merger with Carlyle Group for $31.50 per share, which represented a 36 percent premium over the company’s prior closing price. The Shareholders approved the merger and it became official in January 2011.

For this proposed IPO, CommScope stated, it has hired J.P. Morgan, Deutsche Bank Securities and BofA Merrill Lynch as lead book-running managers.

Earlier in this month, CommScope Acquires Redwood Systems – this acquisition will add innovative LED lighting performance to intelligent building infrastructure solutions. HICKORY, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--To answer the growing demand from business enterprises for full-scale intelligent infrastructure solutions, CommScope has acquired Redwood Systems, Inc., an industry leader in LED lighting solutions and integrated sensor networks for data centers and buildings. The terms of the acquisition are not being disclosed. www.commscope.com

HOT NEW TRENDS ON CAMPUS OLANs – Big on campus

Many campuses are facing upgrades to transport the bandwidth needed for new services. A new network architecture is available that should be their next step in upgrades – OLANs or optical LANs. It could also be their last upgrade needed.

OLANs are based on the fiber to the home (FTTH) technology now used to connect over 100 million subscribers worldwide. FTTH uses networks based on splitting optical signals in a passive optical network (PON) to share one set of downstream electronics among up to 64 users connected on a single fiber each, significantly reducing the cost per user. OLANs require no electronics – or power - between the main equipment room and the end user. At the user end, an Ethernet switch with POE allows connection of 4 wired devices or wireless access points with regular “Cat 5” patchcords.

For the typical campus, OLANs are a lifesaver. The PON architecture requires fewer fibers than traditional structured cabling. Indoors they use tiny cables based on bend-insensitive fibers that can be bent around corners impossible with regular cables. Installation can be done quick and easy using prefab cable assemblies or splice-on connectors developed for fast installation of FTTH subscribers.

The most appealing feature of OLANs is the cost. The installed cost per user is much less than traditional structured cabling. The operating cost is even lower with easy centralized management and lower power consumption. Upgrades are easy – the equipment is ready for 10G+ incoming and 2.4G to the users. Users are even bragging about the money they make by recycling all that copper they pull out to install OLANs!

Jim Hayes, President of The FOA Fiber Optic Association www.thefoa.org

School is back in session. Will technology add a new layer of security for our children?

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. - Some Jacksonville parents say the big concern at schools now is not necessary reading and writing, but safety.

"Our children come first, and when they're in school we shouldn't have to worry if they're safe," parent Tamara Raddle said. So when kids return to school this month in Duval County, others will be joining them in the classroom: more security guards.

As part of the budget approved by the Duval County School Board this week, at least one unarmed security guard will be stationed at all elementary schools, and an armed police officer will be at all middle and high schools.

Superintendent Nikolai Vitti said it's in response to problems that have occurred recently and because its something parents have requested. "I think this is about being proactive rather than reactive with some of the discipline issues, mainly bullying, that we see in our schools," Vitti said. "We want more adults in the building to focus on preventing issues, and when they do occur, we have adults on the ground that can problem solve with students to talk through, why did you make the decisions you made, and what can we do differently so it doesn't happen again."

“This trend is repeating itself all over the country. Technology can add another layer of security and at affordable prices.” Frank Bisbee, HOTS Editor.

Sumitomo Electric Lightwave Introduces New Quantum V-Groove Fusion Splicer with Industry First and Only Advancements

Research Triangle Park, NC, July 16, 2013 — Sumitomo Electric Lightwave (www.sumitomoelectric.com), a major leader in the design and manufacturing of optical fiber and connectivity solutions, today announced the introduction of the Quantum Type-Q101-VS™ V-Groove Fusion Splicer, the third splicer launched in its Quantum Splicer product line. The design of the Quantum VS is based on the market demand for an advanced, yet economically affordable, fusion splicer that provides the speed, performance and efficiencies for data center, enterprise, FTTx, OEM, and communication network applications.

The Quantum Type-Q101-VS V-Groove Fusion Splicer is the industry’s only V-groove splicer with patented dual independent heat shrink ovens that eliminate the heat waiting time for streamlined, consecutive splices—making the splicer one of the fastest V-Groove splicers that increases splicing efficiency by 70%.

Like the Quantum Type-Q101-CA Core Alignment fusion splicer and the Quantum Type-Q101-M12 Mass fusion splicer, the Quantum VS is the only v-groove splicer with a fully functional touch-screen interface, making splicer function navigation more intuitive, faster, and easier than traditional keypad interfaces. Like its predecessors, the Quantum VS incorporates both the touch-screen and keypad interfaces to offer technicians a preferred choice. Like all Quantum fusion splicers, the Quantum VS is also the industry’s only v-groove splicer with internet interface for 24/7 remote maintenance, an SD port for virtually unlimited data storage, and the capability of downloading and uploading work related splicing project data, training videos, audio, and software. The key feature of this splicer is that it incorporates these industry-only advanced features, yet is one of the most competitively priced v-groove splicers on the market.

Without compromising full splicing functionality, performance, and ruggedness, the Quantum VS is compact at 120w x 154D x 130H mm and weighs only 2.1kg with battery, making it easier to carry and work within the many small, confined spaces characterizing the data center, enterprise network, FTTx and outside plant work environments. Despite its small footprint and light weight, the Quantum VS boasts the industry’s largest 640 x 320 fiber view and longest electrode life, while complying with the most stringent shock, waterproof, and dust resistance requirements.

“We are pleased to offer our customers the most technologically advanced v-groove splicer while making it one of the most affordable to own,” comments Dwayne Holst, product manager for the Lightwave Network Products division at Sumitomo Electric Lightwave. “Our goal is to listen to our customers’ valuable input and to design fusion splicers with our history of unwavering commitment to product and service reliability that ultimately offers our customers what they have asked for; the best and most advanced fusion splicing technology with 24/7 service and support. The consistent achievement of this goal is the foundation of the Quantum fusion splicer line’s success. “

The new splicer is compatible with the Lynx2 CustomFit® Splice-On Connectors for customized, on-site cable builds and terminations. Orders and shipping for the unit are immediately available.

About Sumitomo Electric Lightwave: Sumitomo Electric Lightwave (SEL), located in Research Triangle Park, NC, is a leader in the design, innovation, and manufacturing of optical fiber and connectivity solutions, including optical fiber, fiber optic cable, fusion splicers & accessories, field installable connectors, and its FutureFlex® Air-blown Network Solutions. SEL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd, a global leader in the innovation, development, and manufacturing of products to advance the information and communications industry. For more information, please call 800-358-7378, email info@sumitomoelectric.com, or visit www.sumitomoelectric.com.

Article from BICSI NEWS - The Rise of Plug-and-Play Preterminated Cabling By Charlie Bogolawski, RCDD (Leviton Network Solutions)

Many of today’s businesses rely on advanced, ever-changing technology to increase their agility and flexibility while reducing cost. At the same time, they require mission critical networks that can deliver resilient, fault-tolerant applications for their employees and customers. Because data centers are a capital investment essential to achieving corporate goals, businesses demand unfailing reliability and fast deployment of these critical spaces, while information technology and data center professionals strive to manage complexity and costs.

Modularity is becoming increasingly popular in data center design to properly control scalability and manageability. Whether a top-of-rack, middle-of-row and end-of-row configuration is deployed, modular designs require minimum investment while allowing for flexibility, growth and maintaining low latency when accessing data.

The information technology systems (ITS) industry is also seeing an evolution in how data center projects are designed and deployed. While a traditional three phase design-bid-build process is still a viable way of doing business under many circumstances, design-build is better geared toward purpose-built facilities such as data centers that are constructed from the ground up and that demand more specialized expertise.

Design-build is basically a joint venture between the customer (i.e., owner) and general contractor that dictates a single contract for design, construction and installation, and establishes costs during the preliminary design phase of the project. This typically eliminates a low-bid process and provides the following benefits for the customer:

§ One point of contact for project questions/concerns

§ Tighter communication and improved collaboration

§ Faster delivery for project deployment and network cutover

§ Reduced conflicts when it comes to project development

§ One contract to manage

As design-build becomes a more accepted business practice for construction projects and businesses demand fast data center deployment, preterminated optical fiber and copper cabling solutions are becoming increasingly popular. Designed for rapid deployment, preterminated cabling eliminates the need for field terminations, which can significantly reduce installation time and increases network performance to exceed industry benchmarks. Preterminated cabling is also factory-terminated and tested before it leaves the manufacturer; it is ideal for data centers that demand performance, flexibility and scalability while still keeping costs and material waste in check.

Build a Better Infrastructure

Preterminated cable provides a plug-and-play solution for links between switches, servers, patch panels and zone distribution areas in the data center. These solutions include a variety of trunk cables, array cables and plug-and-play cassettes that give data center managers choices to suit specific needs. When compared to field-terminated cabling, there are many reasons to consider preterminated optical fiber and copper cabling.

As bandwidth requirements increase, the list of benefits that comes with using preterminated cabling in data center applications continues to grow. For starters, installation time savings of up to 80 percent can be achieved. This savings frequently offsets higher component costs by:

§ Eliminating the need for field terminations (the most time consuming, labor-intensive process of cable installation) and special tools. Once preterminated cabling is delivered, it can be unpacked, readied for deployment and connected very quickly.

§ Removing the need for transmission performance testing (testing is done by the manufacturer before shipment). Only continuity testing and 10 percent insertion loss testing are typically needed.

§ Allowing for quick clean-up due to minimal leftover materials and scrap.

§ Providing more consistent channel transmission characteristics due to no variation on skill levels of field technicians.

Precision factory-termination processes take place in a clean environment, unlike termination in uncontrolled field conditions. This increases the likelihood of clean and uncontaminated optical fiber ports, enables lower loss budgets and provides overall better electrical transmission. Factory terminations are also guaranteed under warranty, which gives data center managers peace of mind.

Preterminated solutions can also help meet green design, waste reduction and material reuse goals. With preterminated cabling there is less waste and material to clean up after a project is complete. The components are reusable, and can be moved and relocated as necessary to accommodate moves, adds and changes (MACs).

With preterminated solutions, data center managers can make changes on the fly based on rapid network growth, business decisions or shifting requirements. In disaster recovery situations that call for fast, temporary data communications set-up, preterminated cabling can minimize business downtime and establish communications quickly. It can also be disassembled quickly when the situation is resolved.

This plug-and-play cabling solution also offers:

§ Accommodation of higher port densities because preterminated assemblies allow for faster deployment of high-density, multi-port connectivity.

§ Data center modularity and consistency, making cabling accessible and organized. Preterminated solutions are ideal for data centers designed with consistent distances between cabinets and rows. Preterminated cabling also eliminates excess loops, so storing excessive slack is not a concern.

§ Easier 10 gigabit Ethernet (GbE) to 40/100 GbE migration as adoption takes off, providing the infrastructure necessary for new bandwidth requirements; the mutifiber push-on (MPO) connectors and multifiber channels required for standards-based 40/100 GbE are already used in preterminated assemblies.

Rules and Roles are Changing

In design-build data center projects, an integrator (consultant or specifying engineer) typically serves as the owner’s representative and works with the general contractor to design and oversee the deployment of cabling. When preterminated solutions are used, these individuals often take on the role of project manager. This opportunity gives them a chance to be more involved and valuable, and may translate to more work from that same customer down the road, resulting in long-term profitability.

Smaller integrators also have the chance to stack up competitively against larger entities when preterminated optical fiber or copper cabling is specified. In data center environments requiring many terminations, for example, field-terminated cabling could involve as many as 20 installers to perform the terminations. With preterminated assemblies, a smaller staff could get the same amount of work done at the same data center—within the same schedule and with only four or five installers. Those installers also do not have to worry about owning expensive ribbon splicers or other special termination tools.

Although it does not require as much time—or as many installers—in the field, preterminated cabling does require more upfront planning. A thorough, detailed analysis establishes the cabling and termination routes and lengths needed along cable trays and in cabinets (see sidebar). Once the topology is finalized, it is turned over to the manufacturer with detailed information, including a schedule and bill of materials with expected breakouts, labeling, overall construction and electrical or optical transmission performance requirements.

Stepping into a design assistant role, the manufacturer works closely with the integrator to assemble preterminated cabling per specifications and required performance levels. Some manufacturers even offer design services if a customer is unsure about appropriate products or infrastructure design. Manufacturers then complete 100percent testing to ensure quality for every preterminated assembly that leaves the manufacturing floor.

Because preterminated cabling is a custom solution, it may result in longer lead times and change project sequencing. Better coordination while waiting for preterminated cabling from the manufacturer will keep the data center project on track. Integrators should also be onsite to ensure cabling quality upon delivery and during and after installation.

Choose the Right Manufacturer

There are many options when selecting a preterminated assembly manufacturer to work with. Search for a qualified, reliable provider that can offer services and features such as guaranteed cabling performance, design assistance and large quantities of preterminated assemblies on time.

All preterminated copper or optical fiber purchased through a manufacturer should be tested by a third party to exceed TIA and IEEE standards. The manufacturer should also provide 100 percent testing in a quality-controlled environment before the cabling is shipped out to the worksite.

Termination and testing of optical fiber should include:

§ High-precision laser cleaving.

§ End-face geometry testing.

§ Insertion loss performance verification.

§ Return loss performance for singlemode optical fiber.

§ Up to 400X magnification to validate end-face polish quality.

§ Apex offset, radius of curvature and optical fiber protrusion testing.

§ No variance (consistency from connector to connector).

Termination and testing of copper cable should include:

§ No variance (consistency from connector to connector).

§ Technologies that increase resistance to strain and damage.

§ Full standards-based performance testing.

ISO 9001 certification is also a consideration. This certification, which includes third-party auditing of manufacturer sites, functions, products, services and processes, can help ensure that quality manufacturing processes and controls are being followed. Other considerations include:

§ Preterminated solutions at large capacities through multiple factories and a wide distribution network.

§ Dedicated 24/7 make-to-order facilities that can take on large orders while providing fast turnaround. Orders that are too large (or too small) may be pushed to the bottom of the production pile in some manufacturing environments, but make-to-order facilities prevent this problem.

§ Quality documentation and warranty, meaning that each product is labeled with a unique serial number for full traceability. Also look for lifetime product, system and performance warranties.

§ Complete design service. Look for a manufacturer that offers technical experts either remotely or onsite at no additional charge to help with topology and infrastructure layout, along with elevations, pathways and specifications.

§ Respected, quality-certified contractor programs.

§ Green manufacturing policies.

Closing Thoughts

Addressing data center infrastructure efficiency, deployment time, performance and scalability has encouraged the rising adoption of preterminated structured cabling systems. As data center managers aim to increase bandwidth and processing capacity, they will be looking to integrators that can serve as project managers and oversee the deployment, helping to implement design plans that will maximize space efficiency, focus on sustainability and reduce operational costs. Quality cabling manufacturers can offer fair pricing, as well as work to establish a true partnership through the warranties, guaranteed performance standards and design services they offer. Reducing risk is central to a successful project.

Key Pre-Term Considerations

Preterminated cabling solutions require more upfront planning and a thorough, detailed analysis to establish the cabling and termination routes and lengths needed. From determining the overall architecture, cabling media, pathway systems, elevations and rack-level details, to understanding the customer’s unique requirements for scalability, density, manageability and deployment schedules, there are many considerations that go into planning a preterminated cabling infrastructure.

Some key considerations to remember include:

§ Architecture and configuration—It is important to understand what type of architecture and configuration will be deployed, such as traditional three-tier switch architecture, fabric switch architecture, end-of-row, middle-of-row and top-of-rack configurations. This will help determine the placement of equipment and servers, and ultimately impact the cabling termination routes and lengths required.

§ Cabling media—Determining applications and required cable media for both copper and optical fiber links is a key part of the planning process. This might include cost considerations, bandwidth needs, distance limitations, equipment interfaces, power consumption, pathway space and overall lifecyle costs. The environment itself also should be considered, including any electromagnetic or radiofrequency interference (EMI/RFI).

§ Migration and scalability—Knowing the customer’s migration strategy and future plans will go a long way in selecting the right preterminated cabling components. For example, if there is a need to support a migration from 10 GbE to speeds to 40/100 GbE, careful consideration must be given to the optical fiber count, connector type, distances, insertion loss budget and ease of switching out cassettes or other connectivity components.

§ Pathways—The position, elevations, required separation and type of pathway system used can impact the cable lengths. For example, determining whether cabling will be run overhead or underfloor, knowing specific rack heights and clearances, accommodating required separation and selecting the cable support system (e.g., ladder rack, cable tray, trough) will all need to be determined before calculating cable lengths between equipment and patch panels.

§ Cable runs—To carefully determine preterminated cable lengths, it is important to know the rack-level detail of the installation. Bend radius and service loops must be considered, as should the distances to, from and within each cabinet. With preterminated cabling systems, it is important to order lengths that do not come up short, while avoiding too much slack in cabinets and pathways. Proper sequencing is also important to ensure that longer cable trunks are laid into trays first for an overall cleaner installation.

§ Additional considerations—From density and airflow in the cabinet, to preferences for polarity and color coding, proper planning for preterminated cabling solutions requires an extremely detailed analysis of the customer needs and specifications. The deployment schedule must also be carefully reviewed and communicated with the manufacturer to ensure on-time delivery of materials.

Words of Wisdom from the Field

With preterminated cabling solutions shifting the role of integrators and installers into a higher-level project management role, these individuals must have the expertise and experience to take on the additional responsibilities involved in planning, coordination and avoiding pitfalls. Those with the ability to do so can benefit from the time and money savings, quality and consistency that preterminated solutions deliver.

“When you’re looking to cut cost, whatever can be done to reduce installation and labor cost in the field is essential. While preterminated solutions replace the time consuming process of fusion splicing and hand polishing with optical fiber and punching down with copper, it is more than just that. With field termination, a large amount of time is also spent prepping cable, and unfortunately that process can introduce human error and a higher failure rate during testing that often results in having to replace links and channels,” says David “Bo” Conrad, RCDD, Tech Level III, ATF instructor and owner and operator of Bo Enterprises. “Manufacturers have more ideal conditions and equipment for termination that ultimately results in higher quality and consistency. With preterm, link failures are significantly reduced and rework goes down, which provides a higher ROI for the contractor and increased value for the customer.”

According to Conrad, there are many considerations involved with preterminated solutions, as well as the need to work closely with the owner’s representative and the manufacturer. “To maintain manageable and neat, final dressing of cables, preterm lengths cannot be too short or too long, while also allowing for some manageable slack. Not only do the lengths have to be exact, but lead times have to be carefully managed. That makes a close relationship with the owner’s representative, manufacturer and distributor that much more important,” he says. “Project managers need to see the big picture and understand which cables should be installed first. For example, longer links are typically installed first to support proper dressing and layering of cables. Some customers may also have requirements for specific rows in the data center to be up and running before others. To meet deadlines, you need to work carefully with the manufacturer to ensure that the priority cables are delivered first.”

Other considerations, such as the staggering of connectors on the assembly, height and location of patch panels, firestop pathways, labeling and how the preterminated solutions are packaged can also impact success.

“There are many aspects that need to be considered during the planning stage—from the way cables need to connect at the back of the panels and the need for rear horizontal wire support, to the height of ladder rack or basket tray above the finished floor (AFF) or below raised floors,” says Conrad. “How preterm solutions are packaged and delivered is also a consideration. If the materials you need are on the bottom of the wrong pallet, it can cause unnecessary delays by having to unpack five or six pallets of boxes to retrieve the one you need. Accordingly, the quality of the boxes and spools, packing slip information for inventory control and the width of the pallets to ensure they fit between the doors are also important—even with all the emphasis on quality assurance at the factory, it still comes down to how it arrives.”

Conrad acknowledges that preterminated solutions are not for every situation, but when a project can be preplanned and the pathways can support it, it is typically the best option. “The head-ends of preterminated assemblies are typically larger to protect the terminations. It is important to avoid damaging them during installation through pathways. If cabling has to be pulled through tight conduit, if the project features crowded outside plant (OSP) pulls, or if quick onsite customization of lengths is required, preterminated cabling might not work,” says Conrad. “While there will always be a need for field termination, the shift to open trays between spaces in the data center is enabling more preterminated cabling solutions than ever.”

When it comes to selecting a manufacturer for preterminated solutions, the decision is often driven by the specification. However, Conrad believes that manufacturers also need to be head of the game. “First, you look for compliance with the spec. Then it is about quality, lead times and consistency of performance and labeling. How the materials are packaged and the methods used to protect the cables during installation are also important,” says Conrad. “For example, quality manufacturers will use a ‘snake skin’ covering the multiple cables in a preterm assembly; not just a ‘skip wrap.’ They will also strategically locate the labeling both inside and outside the pulling eye.”

Manufacturers of preterminated solutions also have to be responsive. According to Conrad, unforeseen problems like lengths being ordered too short can happen, and manufacturers need the resources to quickly produce and deliver replacement product in those circumstances without complicated return material authorization (RMA) procedures.

While roles are elevated and integrators and installers have the opportunity to save time and money with preterminated solutions, having the right skills and expertise is key to success. “With preterminated solutions, responsibilities have migrated from being an installation foreman to being a combination of designer, installer and quality control manager. You need intimate knowledge of the technology, excellent project management skills and a bird’s eye view of the project to foresee any possible hiccups,” says Conrad. “While preterminated solutions might not be for everyone and every project, the bottom line is that they offer better quality, consistency and return on investment for many large termination projects like data centers. There is definitely an evolution taking place—preterminated solutions are the newest trend, and integrators and installers would be wise to get to know them.”

AUTHOR INFO:

Charlie Bogolawski, RCDD, CDT, is the director of technical sales for Leviton Network Solutions where he leads a team of specification engineers and technical sales personnel, spearheads training and develops innovative sales tools. He has more than 20 years of experience in the ITS industry and can be reached at cbogolawski@leviton.com.

Reprinted with permission from BICSI NEWS www.bicsi.org BICSI News Magazine provides relevant, best practices, vendor-neutral and authoritative information that helps ITS design and installation professionals improve their skills and knowledge, enhance their professional stature and expand the scope of their work in the ITS industry.

EDITOR’s NOTE:

When we reviewed the outstanding July/August BICSI News magazine – we discovered the remarkable article by Charlie Bogolawski, RCDD, CDT - Leviton Network Solutions.

“The Rise of Plug and Play Preterminated Cabling” is timely, well-written and right on target with the driving issues and the technical challenges.

Leviton Network Solutions continues to demonstrate a leadership role in Quality and Value for the Integrated Systems Contractors as they handle the infrastructure requirements of a growing Automated Building market. We also support the new product partnership with Berk-Tek. http://www.wireville.com/hots/hotsjune13.html#xx5

The team at Leviton Network Solutions is very effective.

Getting ready to REWIRE AMERICA…FTTx = AFL increases warranty on fiber-optic testers

June 22, 2013 AFL has increased the warranty period on its Noyes Optical Power Meters (OPM), Optical Light Sources (OLS) and Fiber Identifiers (OFI) to five years -- at least two years greater than most industry-standard warranties offered on such optical network test tools, contends the company. In addition, because of the products’ overall durability, AFL is extending the recommended calibration interval from one year to three years.

“We are confident that our test sets are the most reliable on the market today,” comments Seán Adam, general manager for AFL’s Noyes test and inspection division. “By increasing the calibration interval and warranty period, we are giving our customers additional assurance that they are buying a high quality product and that their investment is well-protected.”

The Noyes fiber-optic test and inspection products range from OTDRs Optical Time Domain Reflectometers and loss test kits to inspection and cleaning tools. All products are engineered to endure harsh outside plant environments, and feature intuitive user interfaces that provide quick results without complicated training requirements.

AFL's Adam concludes, “We remain focused on our core mission–to deliver quality solutions and services that delight our customers. The new five-year warranty and three-year calibration interval on our test sets supports and communicates this commitment to quality and long standing performance.”

Accurate results and excellent customer service define AFL's test and inspection family

AFL's test and inspection products consistently meet and exceed customer needs. We deliver exceptional fiber optic test equipment and outstanding service. Our ISO 9001:2008 certification and quality practices ensure you receive excellent products and documentation.

NOYES products are designed to provide accurate results every time. They are engineered to endure outside plant environments, and feature intuitive user interfaces that provide quick results without complicated training requirements. Product lines include optical time domain reflectometers (OTDRs), loss test kits, inspection and cleaning, fiber identifiers, fault locators and more.

OTDRs

AFL's OTDRs range from simple fault locating to multifunction testing. Exclusive Touch and Test™ brings advanced functionality in an easy-to-use interface. TRM™ certification and reporting software provides a PC analysis tool for viewing, managing, archiving and printing OTDR traces along with comprehensive reports compliant to TIA/ISO guidelines.

Loss Test Kits

AFL provides loss testing capabilities for all budgets. Simple power meters and light sources offer reliable loss measurements. Advanced kits add functionality including in-unit storage of test results and TRM reporting software which enables technicians to organize test data, apply test rules for pass/fail analysis and build custom test reports using industry accepted templates.

Inspection and Cleaning

Connector integrity is crucial to reliable network performance. AFL offers solutions ranging from standalone inspection scopes to probe options for direct connection to NOYES OTDRs or a PC. Successful inspection of fiber connectors is dependant upon cleaning with fiber optic-grade cleaners. See our full line of One-Click Cleaners, Cletop cassette cleaners, and cleaning sticks, available individually or packaged in convenient cleaning kits.

Fiber Identifiers and Fault Locators

Optical Fiber Identifiers (OFI) allow technicians to identify in service fibers without interrupting traffic. Visual Fault Locators (VFL) inject visible red light into an optical fiber to enable technicians to quickly locate sharp bends, breaks, or simply trace a fiber in cluttered fiber areas.

Whether you’re installing fiber optic cable or testing a splice with our equipment, the job is done right. And if you need expert advice, our dedicated customer service representatives and support staff are always here to help.

http://www.aflglobal.com/Products/Test-and-Inspection.aspx

AFL’s (NOYES Test and Inspection products) Five-Year Warranty Sets New Standard

In a market that shows an overwhelming demand for more bandwidth and ever-faster speeds, it seems copper can’t keep up. Are you ready to handle the demand for FTTx - FIBER to The EVERYTHING?

Spartanburg, SC and Lowell, MA – AFL increased the warranty period on NOYES® Optical Power Meters (OPM), Optical Light Sources (OLS) and Fiber Identifiers (OFI) to five years, at least two years greater than industry standards on these products. In addition, because of the products’ overall durability, AFL is extending the recommended calibration interval from one year to three years.

“We are confident that our test sets are the most reliable on the market today,” explains Seán Adam, general manager for AFL’s NOYES Test and Inspection Division. “By increasing the calibration interval and warranty period, we are giving our customers additional assurance that they are buying a high quality product and that their investment is well-protected.”

NOYES Test and Inspection products are in use daily around the world. From Optical Time Domain Reflectometers (OTDRs) and loss test kits to inspection and cleaning products, NOYES products are engineered to endure outside plant environments, and feature intuitive user interfaces that provide quick results without complicated training requirements.

Adam continues, “We remain focused on our core mission–to deliver quality solutions and services that delight our customers. The new five-year warranty and three-year calibration interval on our test sets supports and communicates this commitment to quality and long standing performance.”

For additional information on AFL, NOYES test equipment and additional products and services, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

About AFL
AFL provides industry-leading products and services to the electric utility, broadband, communications, OEM, enterprise, wireless and transit rail markets as well as the emerging markets of oil and gas, mining, nuclear, avionics, medical, renewable and intelligent grid. The company’s diverse product portfolio includes fiber optic cable, transmission and substation accessories, outside plant equipment, connectors, fusion splicers, test equipment and training. AFL’s service portfolio includes market-leading positions with the foremost communications companies supporting inside plant central office, EF&I, outside plant, enterprise and wireless areas.

Founded in 1984, AFL is proud to offer engineering expertise, exceptional products and reliable service that help our customers improve their critical and electrical infrastructure. AFL has operations in the U.S., Mexico, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific. The company is headquartered in Spartanburg, SC, and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan. For more information, visit www.AFLglobal.com

Lightwave reports Alcatel-Lucent transmits 31 Tbps over 7200 km of fiber

July 16, 2013

Lightwave Staff

Alcatel-Lucent (Euronext Paris and NYSE: ALU) says it has transmitted 31 Tbps over 7200 km on a single fiber. The achievement represents a new record for single-fiber optical transmission at transoceanic distances, the company asserts.

The transmission test, carried out at Alcatel-Lucent’s Innovation City campus in Villarceaux near Paris, saw researchers from Bell Labs transmit 200 Gbps each over 155 carriers on a 50-GHz grid. The fiber link featured amplifiers every 100 km.

“Undersea fiber-optic transmission is integral to the digital economy, delivering vast amounts of video and data between countries, regions, and continents,” commented Philippe Keryer, chief strategy and innovation officer of Alcatel-Lucent. “As our customers cope with increasing demand on their networks for data capacity and higher-speeds of transmission, our researchers are intensifying their application with tests like this to develop new technology solutions to transform global data networks. This underlines the strategic R&D focus we recently announced as part of The Shift Plan.”

Alcatel-Lucent presented details of the experiment in a post-deadline paper presented earlier this month at the Opto-Electronic Communication Conference (OECC) conference in Japan.

For more information on high-speed transmission systems and suppliers, visit the Lightwave Buyer’s Guide.

General Cable’s ULTROL® Medium-Voltage Products Pass 60-Year-Life Nuclear Qualification Testing

HIGHLAND HEIGHTS, KENTUCKY, July 29, 2013 ― General Cable (NYSE: BGC), one of the world’s largest wire and cable manufacturers and leading supplier of medium-voltage (MV) cables to the utility industry, is proud to announce the introduction of its MV line of ULTROL^® 60+ nuclear-qualified cable. This MV cable solution joins the ranks of low-voltage (LV) ULTROL^® cables that recently passed 60-year-life testing. With nearly four decades of continued commitment to the nuclear power generation industry, and a dedicated nuclear team, General Cable’s ULTROL 60+ cables support both the existing nuclear fleet and Gen III reactors.

With MV cables critical to safety system operation, and linking nuclear plants to emergency power, the role of legacy suppliers like General Cable has never been more important than it is today. Backed by an established platform in LV nuclear-qualified cables, advanced material expertise, and renowned testing capabilities through its world-class Marshall Technology Center, General Cable began a five-year testing and certification program in 2008 to develop MV cables that meet AEIC qualifications for 60-year-life in the most rigorous inside containment applications.

General Cable’s extensive third-party testing ensures conformance of ULTROL 60+ to all nuclear requirements under ASME NQA-1 and US NRC 10CFR50 Appendix B, as well as regulatory guidelines of nuclear reactor manufacturers. Kinectrics (formerly Ontario Hydro Technologies) completed thermal aging, radiation exposure and Design Basis Events (DBE) testing to a total integrated dosage of up to 350 MRad gamma radiation, confirming that General Cable’s ULTROL 60+ MV products meet both prior industry standards and Gen III+ reactor profile requirements for a proven 60-year service life.

“Medium-voltage cables are a critical component to safe, ongoing nuclear power plant operation, and the required service life of 60 years for new plants extends to the cable,” said Robert W. Schuermann, Vice President and General Manager, Specialty Cables, General Cable North America. “As a leader in the development of medium-voltage cables for utility and industrial applications, our ULTROL 60+ medium-voltage cables are a natural extension of General Cable’s already strong product portfolio. After significant compound profiling, lengthy ageing profiling, and AEIC certifications, we are proud to deliver a proven 60-year-life cable for medium-voltage containment and balance-of-plant applications that meet evolving industry requirements. These recent test results confirm General Cable’s position as a major cable supplier for new builds in the nuclear generation market.”

With a 40-year track record as a leading supplier of nuclear grade cables, General Cable combines exceptional cable manufacturing capabilities and more than 100 years of experience in developing market-leading insulation and jacket materials to bring innovative cable solutions like ULTROL 60+ to the marketplace—reaching new levels of performance that ensure safe, reliable nuclear power plant operations for 60 years and beyond.

General Cable (NYSE: BGC), a Fortune 500 Company headquartered in Highland Heights, Kentucky, is a global leader in the development, design, manufacture, marketing and distribution of aluminum, copper and fiber optic wire and cable products for the energy, construction, industrial, specialty and communications markets. General Cable, with annual revenues approaching $6 billion, has 57 manufacturing facilities in 26 countries and offers competitive strengths in such areas as breadth of product line, brand recognition, distribution and logistics, sales and service and operating efficiency. For more information about General Cable products, please contact your local sales representative or visit our Web site at www.generalcable.com.

ShoreTel Names Don Joos as President & CEO

ShoreTel SVP Steps Up to Top Role for Leading Unified Communications Provider

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Aug. 8, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- ShoreTel® (SHOR), the leading provider of unified communications systems including business phone systems, applications and mobile UC solutions, today announced that its board of directors has named Don Joos to serve as the company's president and chief executive officer.

"With a successful track record of strong leadership, operational excellence and customer focus both at ShoreTel and throughout his career in the business communications industry, the board is very pleased to appoint Don Joos to the role of president and CEO," said Chuck Kissner, chairman of the board. "After an extensive search it became clear that Don is uniquely qualified to fully mobilize the company in its drive to be the leading unified communications provider. His achievements, knowledge of the industry, vision, respect of his peers and employees, and commitment to the company's strategy set him apart."

Joos joined ShoreTel in April 2011 as vice president of global services, and for the past year has served as senior vice president of business operations overseeing approximately 50 percent of the company operations through the direct management of engineering/R&D, product management, global support and services, IT, quality and operations. He was instrumental in evolving the company's business strategy which is focused on providing a brilliantly simple unified communications platform to customers via a premise, hosted or hybrid offering. Prior to joining ShoreTel, Joos spent nine years as a company vice president at Avaya. Joos applied his business entrepreneurial capabilities helping to build an e-commerce start-up and has held service and operational roles at Williams Communication Solutions, Nortel Communication Solutions and Marshalls Inc.

"ShoreTel now has the opportunity to extend its leadership position by fully integrating its cloud offering across its suite of unified communications products," said Joos. "With some of the highest customer satisfaction in the business, world-class employees and a strong track record of innovation, the company's prospects are unlimited. I look forward to working with the ShoreTel team during this very exciting time to further accelerate our recent progress."

About ShoreTel
ShoreTel, Inc. (SHOR) is a provider of business communication solutions whose brilliantly simple unified communications platforms, applications and mobile UC solutions promise a new rhythm of workforce engagement and collaboration. With costly complexity eliminated by design from its award-winning, all-in-one IP phone system, UC and contact center solution, and its industry-leading hosted phone system, workers enjoy a freedom and self-reliance that other providers can't match. Users have full control to engage and collaborate, no matter the time, place or device, for the lowest cost and demand on IT resources in the industry. ShoreTel is headquartered in Sunnyvale, Calif., and has regional offices and partners worldwide. For more information, visit shoretel.com or shoretelsky.com.

Sumitomo Electric Lightwave Introduces New Quantum V-Groove Fusion Splicer with Industry First and Only Advancements

The new splicer is compatible with the Lynx2 CustomFit® Splice-On Connectors for customized, on-site cable builds and terminations. Orders and shipping for the unit are immediately available.

About Sumitomo Electric Lightwave:
Sumitomo Electric Lightwave (SEL), located in Research Triangle Park, NC, is a leader in the design, innovation, and manufacturing of optical fiber and connectivity solutions, including optical fiber, fiber optic cable, fusion splicers & accessories, field installable connectors, and its FutureFlex® Air-blown Network Solutions.SEL is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd, a global leader in the innovation, development, and manufacturing of products to advance the information and communications industry. For more information, please call 800-358-7378, email info@sumitomoelectric.com, or visit www.sumitomoelectric.com.

Utah State University Selects ShoreTel for Campus-Wide Unified Communications

University installs ShoreTel's full suite of business communication and collaboration solutions to improve productivity and reduce costs

SUNNYVALE, Calif., Aug. 5, 2013 /PRNewswire/ --ShoreTel® (SHOR), the leading provider of unified communications systems including business phone systems, applications and mobile UC solutions, today announced Utah State University™ has begun implementing and using ShoreTel integrated business communications solutions to serve thousands of academic and administrative staff members.

Utah State University (USU) is a public research university with 29,000 students, offering top-notch academics, nationally recognized research, and Division I athletics. The university was looking for a new solution to replace their outdated system and selected ShoreTel because of its low cost of ownership, ease of use and overall ease of deployment and maintenance.

USU purchased the full portfolio of ShoreTel offerings including the ShoreTel IP-PBX solution with integrated unified communications, ShoreTel Enterprise Contact Center (ECC), ShoreTel Mobility, and ShoreTel Conferencing along with implementation and professional services. The UC and contact center installs are complete across 3,600 phones, and the roll-out of mobility and conferencing is currently taking place.

"ShoreTel was less expensive to purchase and install than other UC providers, and we are seeing other cost benefits as well," said Amy Kitchen, business officer, information technology at USU. "ShoreTel is easy to administer and does not require the IT man power of other solutions, since users can do many tasks on their own. Along that same theme, the solution is so simple to use. Initially staff were skeptical about having to learn a new system, but the feedback has been very positive and everyone loves its ease of use."

Continues Kitchen: "We've seen enhanced employee productivity since installing ShoreTel just by using ShoreTel Communicator, since there are so many functions that can happen within this one tool. Another huge time saver is having a full faculty and staff directory at our fingertips – no more flipping through a paper copy phone directory or navigating our website to pull extensions. Now users open ShoreTel Communicator, search for the person they need to call, and with one click, the phone is dialing!"

"Utah State University is our newest education customer, joining a roster of 1,400 schools, colleges and universities around the globe," said Don Joos, senior vice president of business operations at ShoreTel. "The ShoreTel solution provides USU and all of our constituents with more efficient communication capabilities, freeing IT resources while delivering the lowest total cost of ownership in the industry."

Communication Planning Corporation is North Florida’s leading ShoreTel dealer.

Since 1980, CPC has provided quality service for their communications and cabling needs. CPC and ShoreTel can deliver unified communications. www.communicationplanning.com

Contact Michael Shannahan, Vice President – Communication Planning Corporation (Jacksonville, FL) Tel. 904-645-9077 or michael@communicationplanning.com

Southwire’s New Electrician’s Tools is tedmag.com’s Most Viewed Article in July

Southwire Introduces Electrician's Tools, Adding to Current Line of Maxis Contractor Equipment

Published 7/19/2013 12:30:16 PM

CARROLLTON, Ga. – As an enhancement to its robust line of innovative wire and cable products and solutions, Southwire has introduced Southwire™ Electrician's Tools, a comprehensive line of hand tools, testers and meters.

Long known as a powerful brand in the wire and cable industry and for "real change" that empowers electrical contractors and installers, Southwire is now expanding its product line, unveiling Southwire™ Electrician's Tools. Southwire has eagerly entered into the tools marketplace, unveiling an impressive suite of tool products. The tools are manufactured with top-quality materials to ensure superior performance and durability throughout the lifecycle of the tool, and include added features to help enhance user productivity – all backed up with strong warranties.

"This is an extension of the work that we do every day at Southwire, being a solutions-based company, with a focus on the electrical contractor and the electrician," said Brandon Moss, vice president of Southwire's Tools & Accessories. "We've got a premium tool that's been field-tested and is going to exceed the performance requirements of anybody that tries the tools and test equipment. We're proud of the products that we're bringing to the market, and I think that they're worthy of the Southwire name and what people have come to expect when they see 'Southwire' on a product."

Southwire's Electrician's Tools will be available in retail outlets, electrical wholesale and tools supply houses nationwide, allowing easy access for professional contractors. The collection consists of a full line of professional grade hand tools that includes pliers, strippers, and screw drivers, as well as a wide array of electrical meters and testers.

"We listen to the wants and needs of contractors and we work to offer real solutions that positively impact the job they do every day," said Moss. "Adding Electrician's Tools to the existing line of Maxis™ Contractor Equipment completes the product portfolio. We now offer solutions on both ends of the spectrum, from contractor equipment to electrician's tools and a whole range of other categories in between."

Contractors and electricians who use Southwire products and services have come to know Southwire for its premium quality products, innovation, and performance reliability that deliver value. They know that Southwire is in it for the long haul, and will continue to listen to their concerns and support their needs for years to come.

"Southwire has provided high quality electrical wire and cable for over six decades. We're proud to now tie our name to a line of durable and cutting-edge tools for the electrical industry," states Norman Adkins, EVP Southwire, president Southwire's Electrical Division. "Our launch advertising campaign states, our tools are 'Built for Strength. Built for Reliability. Built for Work.' We think users will agree."

Reprinted with permission from the ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTOR magazine (tED magazine) www.tedmag.com

About tED Magazine - A monthly textbook for the electrical distribution channel.
tED Magazine is the voice for the top distributors in North America. From national chains to successful independents, tED is read by the top distribution companies in the industry. While targeted to the distributor salesperson, tED is also read by key executives. The publication is known for addressing the tough issues within the channel. If you have a message or product to get in front of the electrical channel, tED’s readers are the top performers and decision makers you need to reach.

Published every month, tED provides:
• Green initiatives and alternative markets
• Market trend data
• New product information
• Manufacturer marketing program roll-outs
• Best practices of electrical distributors
• Voice-data-video features
• Lighting features
• Economic outlooks
• News of both electrical distributors and suppliers

TedMag.com
As a complimentary product, tED Magazine offers TedMag.com to disseminate information immediately. With seven news sections and a weekly special report, TedMag.com covers industry news as it breaks. www.tedmag.com

tED GreenRoom
TEDGreenRoom.com, designed to be the electrical distributor’s resource center for selling energy efficiency and becoming Green. The site, along with tED’s new quarterly supplement with the same name, provides manufacturers with a targeted approach to market their Green products through the energy expert—the electrical distributor.

For more information: NAED - National Electrical Distributor Association www.naed.org

CABA NEWS BRIEF

Large Building Automation

A perfect match: Energy efficiency and facility management
By Archita Datta Majumdar
The first phase of facility management was integrating all components of managing a larger infrastructure and offering managed services so occupants can live or work in a smooth and comfortable environment. Once the idea was ingrained in everyone's mind, hiring professionals to undertake facility management functions was not new concept anymore. With this acceptance came the need to improve services and offer better facilities and comfort to the end user. The next phase is therefore poised to make even more of a difference to our lives with energy-efficient services to make the entire facility management operation greener, as well as cheaper.

Survey: http://multibriefs.com/surveys/survey.php?SurveyID=1163

READ MORE

The top 10 software vendors connecting smart buildings to the smart grid
Greentech Media
A new report from Groom estimates that the worldwide market for software and fees from demand response is upwards of $6.2 billion, and is growing at 30 per cent annually. Of 40 vendors evaluated, Groom created a 'Top 10' list, which included CABA members: Schneider Electric and Siemens.

READ MORE

CTBUH Canada and Tridel offer office condo tours
Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat
CTBUH Canada and Tridel are pleased to offer 40 participants the opportunity for small group guided tours of the Hullmark Corporate Centre, a new office condominium complex in Toronto. The tours will take place Aug. 13th, from 4:00-6:00 p.m. CTBUH Canada and Tridel are both CABA members.

READ MORE

Siemens' Crystal awarded BREEAM 'outstanding' rating
2degrees
The futuristic Crystal building in London opened by Siemens in September last year has achieved an outstanding rating under BRE's environmental assessment methodology. The building houses the world's largest high-tech exhibition on the future of cities as well as providing a conference center and a global technology and innovation centre for the German manufacturing and engineering giant. Both Siemens and BRE Trust are CABA members.

READ MORE

Laney College offering certificate in building automation systems
Laney College
Laney College, a CABA member, has developed an in-depth curricular pathway for students to gain expertise in maintaining, programming, and troubleshooting building control systems. Energy efficiency theory and best practices are interwoven throughout the entire course sequence. Classes start Aug. 19.

READ MORE

Saudi Arabia builds clean energy capacity
Natural Resources Canada
RETScreen software has been identified as a key enabling element of Saudi Arabia's clean energy strategy. In June 2013, RETScreen International conducted on-site training at King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy (K.A. CARE) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, delivering two back-to-back courses to 20 participants from K.A. CARE and the Saudi Energy Efficiency Center (SEEC). RETScreen International is managed under the leadership and ongoing financial support of the CanmetENERGY research centre at Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), a CABA member.

READ MORE

Video: Tips to reduce certification time of wireless devices
Youtube
Anaren, a CABA member, provides tips on simplifying the process of certifying a new wireless device to standards like FCC, IC, and ETSI.

READ MORE

TRENDING ARTICLES

Missed last week's issue? See which articles your colleagues read most.

HomeGrid Forum announces 12 new certified HomePNA products (HomeGrid Forum)
The water-heater-to-smart-grid connector goes commercial (Greentech Media)
Cisco CEO touts work on router 'for the Internet of Everything' (Network World)

Click here to see what else you missed.

Home Systems

Microsoft releases operating system for house
MIT Technology Review
Researchers at Microsoft have released software aimed at making it easier for homes to be monitored, automated, and controlled using computers and the Internet. It also paves the way for developers to create apps that can be "installed" into homes with numerous different devices to make use of them in new ways. Microsoft is a CABA Board member.

READ MORE

ZigBee Home Automation Standard Version 1.2 ratified
ZigBee Alliance
The ZigBee Alliance, a global ecosystem of organizations creating wireless solutions for use in energy management, commercial and consumer applications, announced that an update to ZigBee Home Automation has been ratified and is now available for product development. The new version is fully interoperable with the earlier versions of the standard. ZigBee Alliance is a CABA member.

READ MORE

Study: Tablets are found in more U.S. broadband homes
Telecompetitor
Nearly half of all broadband households in the U.S. have a tablet computer, a 33 per cent increase in ownership between 2011 and 2012, according to Parks Associates, a CABA member. "The tablet is taking market share from other devices with overlapping functionality, but its continued growth depends on manufacturers' ability to continue to carve out a niche that differentiates the tablet from other form factors while also complementing them," Parks senior analyst Jennifer Kent said.

READ MORE

Google unveils $35 web-TV connector called Chromecast
The Wall Street Journal
Google unveiled its newest approach to getting online content onto high-definition TV sets with its $35 Chromecast device that can play Web videos from Netflix, YouTube and Google Play on an HDTV. The device uses a home's Wi-Fi, plugs into a TV's HDMI port and can be controlled by a smartphone, tablet or computer. This is Google's second connected TV device and will largely combat Apple's $99 Apple TV.

READ MORE

Survey: Mobile devices bridge work and home
Online Media Daily
About four in 10 users of smartphones and tablets use their devices for business and personal purposes, according to a global IGS survey. As for mobile commerce, the survey found that 56 per cent of smartphone users and 73 per cent of tablet owners make purchases on their devices.

READ MORE

WigWag takes home automation mobile
Gizmag
Life automation is a concept that is really growing lately. All kinds of products designed to connect our homes and businesses and make mundane tasks automatic are hitting the market, and many of them are seeing fast adoption from users. WigWag is another device with that goal, and it has some distinct features that its creators hope will help it stand tall above others on the market.

READ MORE

FEATURED ARTICLE

TRENDING ARTICLE

MOST POPULAR ARTICLE

The future of condominium living defined
Business Mirror
Today, the newest technological developments have made home automation a reality. While fully functional household robots have yet to be developed for homeowners to help address their needs, smart home technology is now becoming more accessible than ever and is beginning to introduce a new brand of innovative lifestyles.

read more

6 technologies making buildings smarter
Metering.com
Smart buildings are leveraging emerging machine-to-machine (M2M) technologies to become even smarter, with six advances in smart building technology enabling a new era in building energy efficiency and carbon footprint reduction, according to real estate services provider Jones Lang LaSalle.

read more

Time Warner Cable keeps rolling out IntelligentHome
Multichannel News
Time Warner Cable, with the introduction of its IntelligentHome brand in Dallas, now reaches 60 per cent of its customers with the home security-automation service. The cable provider by Dec. 31 plans to wrap up the service's launch in New York City and other "major markets."

read more

CABA News

CABA to attend SAP Intelligent Building Forum
CABA
CABA would like to meet you at the SAP Intelligent Building Forum on August 14 in Newtown, Pennsylvania. Erin Mills, CABA Research Director and George Grimes, CABA Business Development Manager, will be attending the Forum and would like to learn more about your organization. If you would like to arrange a meeting with Erin Mills and/or George Grimes, please call 613.686.1814 x226 or email grimes@caba.org.

CABA launches 'Monetization of the Connected Home' research project
CABA
The Continental Automated Buildings Association, through its Connected Home Council, has launched a collaborative research study entitled "Monetization of the Connected Home." The purpose of the landmark study is to improve our understanding of consumer attitudes towards home automation, to explore business models currently in use by select industry participants and importantly, to identify areas of potential growth and opportunity. The following CABA members are confirmed sponsors of the study: ALARM.COM, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Arrayent, fifthplay, Hydro One Networks Inc., Hydro-Québec, IBM, Lowe's Companies, Inc., Pella Corporation, Qualcomm Incorporated, Robert Bosch LLC, Samsung, Schneider Electric, SecurTek Monitoring Solutions and TELUS. To explore this unique opportunity go to: http://www.caba.org/research/projects/connected-home-monetization. If you have any questions or would like more information about the study, please contact: CABA's Business Development Manager, George Grimes at 613.686.1814 x226 or Grimes@CABA.org.

CABA's 'Life Cycle Costing Study' officially launched
CABA
Increasingly, end users in the intelligent buildings industry, such as architects, building owners, tenants, and builders are seeking ways to improve the cost efficiency of buildings and building-related systems and components. This landmark report offers organizations an exciting opportunity to collaborate and create one of the most timely research projects undertaken through the CABA Intelligent & Integrated Buildings Council. The goal of this research is to help educate end-users with strategies to improve their competitive edge. For more information on this important research project, go to: http://www.caba.org/research/projects/life-cycle-costing. The following CABA members are confirmed sponsors of the study: buildingSmart Alliance, Cadillac Fairview Corporation Limited, Consolidated Edison Co. of New York, Inc., CSA Group, Hydro One Networks, Hydro-Québec, Honeywell, International Facility Management Association (IFMA), Ingersoll Rand/Trane, Johnson Controls, Microsoft Corporation, PCN Technology, Inc., Philips, Public Works and Government Services Canada, Siemens Industry, Inc., The Siemon Company and WattStopper/Legrand. If you would like more information about the study or to become a sponsor, please contact: CABA's Business Development Manager, George Grimes at 613.686.1814 x226 or Grimes@CABA.org.

Mark your calendar: November 19th Philly!
CABA
CABA's Intelligent Buildings & Digital Home Forum is coming to Philadelphia, PA on Nov. 19, 2013... just in time for Greenbuild 2013 which will be held from Nov. 20-22, 2013, at the Pennsylvania Convention Center. This is the opportunity to attend the CABA Connected Home and CABA Intelligent & Integrated Buildings Council meetings and network with the CABA Board of Directors, which will be meeting on Nov. 20 hosted by CABA Board member Penn State University and the EEB Hub. To learn more about the sponsorship and speaking opportunities, or if you would like to attend as a delegate, please contact CABA's Business Development Manager, George Grimes at 613.686.1814 x 226 or Grimes@CABA.org. You can view the sponsorship opportunities at: http://docs.caba.org/documents/CABA-Forum-Sposorship-Packages.pdf .

Research Spotlight

Evaluation of Steam Cleaning in AHU Coil Sanitization and Energy Conservation
CABA
The paper from CABA member Pure Air Control Services, Inc. investigates indoor air quality degradation caused by contaminants in air-conditioning equipment. A detailed analysis was performed on an air-conditioning coil that had been operating since 1967. Bacteria and fungi were discovered and cataloged along with reduced airflow. A cleaning procedure using a jet of steam at 350°C was effective in removing nearly all of the contaminants and in increasing airflow. This should improve indoor air quality. Read this report as it appears in CABA's Member Research Library, the world's largest collection of connected home and intelligent building research. CABA members have access to the Member Research Library as a membership benefit. The CABA Public Library is complimentary to all industry stakeholders and features over 500 reports.

Welcoming Our New Members

CABA acknowledges member support
CABA
The Board of Directors of the Continental Automated Buildings Association would like to thank and recognize the following renewing members: BRE Trust and Eagle Technologies. Your support of CABA is greatly appreciated.

www.caba.org

Mike Holt reminds us that SAFETY is too important to ignore

Littelfuse Electrical Safety Hazards Handbook

“Electrical Safety is a Serious Issue. Electrical Safety in the workplace is the most important job of an electrical worker. No matter how much training one has received or how much employers try to safeguard their workers, Electrical Safety is ultimately the responsibility of the electrical worker. The human factor associated with electrical accidents can be immeasurable. No one can replace a worker or loved one that has died or suffered the irreparable consequences of an electrical accident. “

The purpose of Littelfuse Safety Hazards Handbook is to identify electrical safety hazards and present ways to minimize or avoid their consequences. It is a guide for improving electrical safety and contains information about governmental regulations, industry-accepted standards and work practices. It presents ways to meet the standards and reduce the hazards.

Download here: http://www.littelfuse.com/data/en/Arc-Flash_Literature/LittelfuseArc-FlashSafetyHandbook-PF339.pdf
Other Littelfuse Electrical Safety Resources

www.mikeholt.com

USGBC’s LEED in Motion Report Reveals More Than 4.3 Million People Live and Work in LEED-Certified Buildings

New report series demonstrates breadth, momentum of green building movement

Washington, D.C. — (Aug. 14, 2013) — The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) has released its inaugural LEED in Motion report, a holistic statistical snapshot of the green building movement aimed at equipping its members with the insight to make a strong case for sustainable building activity.

The first of three reports in the LEED in Motion series, available exclusively to USGBC member companies, LEED in Motion: People and Progress examines the individuals and organizations that are driving and benefitting from green building, utilizing graphics, charts and other tools to demonstrate the breadth of the community intent on creating buildings that are better for the environment and the people who utilize them every day.

“LEED is a transformative force that works at the intersection of a variety of societal and economic interests, including the construction, real estate and environmental communities,” said Rick Fedrizzi, president, CEO and founding chair, USGBC. “The new LEED in Motion report reflects that incredible cross-section of people — diverse in background, geography and vocation — who are working together to fulfill USGBC’s mission of a sustainably built environment within a generation.”

The first section of the report, Occupants and Industry, examines the broad community that engages with green buildings as residents and tenants — as much a part of the movement as industry practitioners. Currently, USGBC estimates that more than 4.3 million people live and work in LEED-certified buildings, while more than 6.2 million people experience a LEED-certified project every day.

The LEED Professionals section of the report considers the community of more than 186,000 LEED credential holders who are actively applying their specialized knowledge of LEED to advance the green building rating system while adding value to the firms that employ them. In particular, the report notes the top 10 U.S. states for LEED Professionals, as well as the top 10 industries in which they are employed.

The report also examines the nearly 13,000 USGBC member organizations, ranging from Fortune 100 corporations to small neighborhood businesses, representing 13 million employees and $1.8 trillion in combined revenue. People and Progress reports on the location and market sectors of these geographically and professionally diverse organizations, which are advancing green building with activities such as portfoliowide LEED certifications and participation on LEED development committees.

Additionally, the report features USGBC’s network of 77 chapters and nearly 30,000 chapter members, explaining how the network’s educational, advocacy-related and community-based activities are proving pivotal to the expansion of green building in local communities around the nation.

The report also features several project spotlights, highlighting sustainable features and achievements at projects in the medical, education and commercial real estate sectors, in addition to interviews with green building leaders.

USGBC will release the next two LEED in Motion reports, Places and Policies and Impacts and Innovation, later this year.

USGBC members can download LEED in Motion: People and Progress, by visiting http://www.usgbc.org/resources/leed-motion-people-and-progress.

Media are welcome to request a copy of the report from Jacob Kriss, USGBC Media Associate: jkriss@usgbc.org.

About the U.S. Green Building Council

The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to a prosperous and sustainable future through cost-efficient and energy-saving green buildings. USGBC works toward its mission of market transformation through its LEED green building program, robust educational offerings, a nationwide network of chapters and affiliates, the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities. For more information, visit usgbc.org and connect on Twitter and Facebook.

The 2013 tED Magazine Best Of The Best Awards

Here is the list of winners of the 2013 tED magazine Best Of The Best Awards, held Tuesday, August 6 during the NAED AdVenture Conference in Chicago.

Brand Awareness: Distributor $25 million to $200 million: Alameda Electrical Distributors (New Look, Same Great Service)

Brand Awareness: Distributor over $200 million: Van Meter, Inc. (It's All About Building Relationships)

Brand Awareness: Supplier over $250 million: Legrand (Designed For You)

Creative Display: Distributor under $25 million: Vaughn Electrical Supply (The Experience Center)

Creative Display: Distributor $25 million to $250 million: Warshauer Electric Supply (Lighing Design Crew)

Creative Display: Distributor over $200 million: Summit Electric Supply (Scan Code and Download)

Creative Display: Supplier under $250 million: RAB Lighting (Slim Merchandising Display)

Creative Display: Supplier over $250 million: Southwire (SIMpull WireBARREL Wall Display)

Digital/Social Media Campaign: Distributor under $25 million: Swift Electric Supply (Social Media Campaign 2012)

Digital/Social Media Campaign: Distributor over $200 million: Dakota Supply Group (Contractor Portal-Work Order Generator)

Digital/Social Media Campaign: Supplier under $250 million: Madison Electric Products (Measurable Results With Social Media)

Digital/Social Media Campaign: Supplier over $250 million: Lutron Electronics (Social Media Presence)

Direct Promotion: Distributor $25 million to $200 million: Needham Electric Supply (Farm Light)

Direct Promotion: Distributor over $200 million: Summit Electric Supply (Texpansion!)

Direct Promotion: Supplier under $250 million: Service Wire (2012 Direct Mail Campaign)

Direct Promotion: Supplier over $250 million: Phillips Lighting (Smart Promotion)

Event: Distributor under $25 million: C.N. Robinson Lighting Supply (Don't Miss the Bus!)

Event: Distributor $25 million to $200 million: Schaedler Yesco (Expo 2012)

Event: Distributor over $200 million: Irby (Wire Pulling Rodeo)

Event: Supplier under $250 million: Madison Electric Products (Innovation Roundtable)

Event: Supplier over $250 million: Lutron Electronics (Press Conference and Event)

Integrated Promotional Campaign: Distributor under $25 million: C.N. Robinson Lighting Supply (Don't Miss the Bus!)

Integrated Promotional Campaign: Distributor $25 million to $200 million: Western Extralite (Leading Edge LEDs Now!)

Integrated Promotional Campaign: Distributor over $200 million: CapitalTristate Electrical Distributor (Energy Saving Work)

Integrated Promotional Campaign: Supplier under $250 million: Universal Lighting Technologies (EVERLINE LED Campaign)

Integrated Promotional Campaign: Supplier over $250 million: Legrand (Healthcare Campaign)

Literature/Selling Tool: Distributor under $25 million: Atlantic Electrical Supply (A Renewed Dedication)

www.tedmag.com

2014 BICSI Winter Conference Looking for Presenters

Help Shape the Winter Conference schedule.
Become a Conference Presenter!

Are you a seasoned presenter, or even someone looking to gain valuable public speaking experience? Are you knowledgeable in information technology systems (ITS) industry topics? Apply today to be a part of the upcoming 2014 BICSI Winter Conference & Exhibition in Orlando, Florida, to be held February 2-6, 2014.

Share your knowledge, ideas and practices with other professionals.
Gain valuable industry recognition.
Provide Winter Conference attendees with information they can immediately put to use in their ITS careers.
Receive a complimentary 2014 Winter Conference registration!

Click here for more information on what kinds of presentations we are looking for and to fill out an application form.

Don’t miss your opportunity to help make the 2014 BICSI Winter Conference & Exhibition a success by sharing your insight about the ITS industry with conference participants.

Please feel free to forward this email to a colleague or friend. The deadline for completed submissions is September 27, 2013. www.bicsi.org

AFCOM’s 3rd Annual Australian Symposium Features Wide Range of Trends, Technology Presentations by IT and Data Centre Experts

Glenn Ashe, Former Australian Government CIO to Keynote

Brisbane, Australia – August 6, 2013 –AFCOM, the world's leading data centre association, announced today the line-up of speakers for the 3^rd annual symposium held at Rydges South Bank in Brisbane, Australia, September 9-11, 2013. Glenn Ashe, former Australian government CIO for Attorney-General’s Office, will present the keynote speech on “Future Demands and Expectations for Data Centre Capability in the Asia Pacific Region”.

“The AFCOM Australian Symposium is one of the most important events on the ICT calendar, said Glenn Ashe. “It brings together data centre professionals to discuss, share and gain exposure to trends and over-the-horizon elements of data management. I look forward to addressing the conference and working with colleagues from around the globe.”

Mr. Ashe will highlight the emerging importance of data centres in the Asia Pacific region, the demands created by data centre consolidation initiatives from all levels ofGovernment, and the increasing service demands and expectations from the growing digital economy. Mr. Ashe is an ICT and security professional with extensive experience in the military, private sector and in the Australian federal government.

“By bringing the third annual AFCOM Symposium to Brisbane, AFCOM is pleased to serve the Australian data centre community,” said Tom Roberts, president of AFCOM. “AFCOM provides vendor-neutral and relevant education to help keep pace with the rapid changes within the data centre.”

Other speakers for the 3-day symposium include:

· Tom Townsend, Data Centre & Networks Manager,University of Canberra – Session: How Many Tiers Do You Need?

· Glenn Allan, Service Performance Manager Data Centre, National Australia Bank – Session: Colocate or NOT “The Multi-Million Dollar Question”

· Mathew Smorhun, Assistant Secretary Strategic Reform, Department of Defence – Session: Large Scale ICT Procurement in Government: Driving Business Outcomes from Large Technology Contracts

· Nigel Phair,Director of Internet Security at Canberra University - Session:

Cyber Security for Organisation Survival

The AFCOM Symposium: Brisbane, will gather Australia’s leading data centre professionals for three intense days of learning, networking, and discussion aimed at helping to provide specific guidance on building data centre strategies and achieving optimum effectiveness in daily operations. With a specific focus on data centre trends, technology and talent, attendees of the Symposium will be both student and teacher, as they collectively work to advance as data centre professionals.

Join us in Brisbane, Australia from September 9 – September 11 for the third annual AFCOM: Symposium. For more information or to register to attend, go to http://www.afcom.com/asiapacific/

About AFCOM

AFCOM (www.afcom.com) is theleading association supporting the educational and professional developmentneeds of data center and facilities management professionals around the globe. Established in 1980, AFCOM currently boasts more than 4,500 members and 40 chapters worldwide, and provides data center professionals with unique networking opportunities andeducational forums and resources through its bi-annual Data Center World Conference, published magazines, regional chapters, research and hotline services, and industry alliances.

AFL Recipient of Three Technology Patents

Spartanburg, SC – July 22, 2013 – Five AFL associates were recognized for receiving patent awards for their work developing new products and technologies.

Ted Lichoulas, R&D engineering manager and Eddie Kimbrell, senior designer, received a patent for “method and apparatus for universal xDSL demarcation interface with multi-functional capability and signal performance enhancement.” Part of a Fiber-to-the-Node solution, the method splits the combined voice (POTS) and VDSL (data, video and VoIP) signal from the Telco central office and routes it to the point-of-use within a customer premise. Using this method, a carrier is allowed to use copper wiring on the last mile and provide triple-play services to a residence.

Tony Nieves, global key account manager for AFL, and Chris Donaldson, R&D engineer at AFL, received a patent for “Optical Fiber Cable Connector.” This new invention allows the termination of traditional flat drop optical cable to a hardened fiber optic connector. The cable retention device, a one-piece structure, eases the assembly of the fiber and stress rod members to the optical connector. The patented design contains features that allow for proper alignment of fiber optic cable with enhanced cable strain-relief.

Kheng Hwa Seng, director, supply chain management at AFL, received a patent for a "secured fiber optic connecting system and method using different fiber positions of a multi-fiber connector.” The technology uses one or more, but not all, fiber positions of a multi-fiber connector in order to achieve security in an optical interconnect system.

For more information about AFL and its products and services, visit www.AFLglobal.com.
Pictured (left to right): Ted Lichoulas, Eddie Kimbrell, Chris Donaldson, Tony Nieves and Kheng Hwa Seng

About AFL
AFL provides industry-leading products and services to the electric utility, broadband, communications, OEM, enterprise, wireless and transit rail markets as well as the emerging markets of oil and gas, mining, nuclear, avionics, medical, renewable and intelligent grid. The company’s diverse product portfolio includes fiber optic cable, transmission and substation accessories, outside plant equipment, connectors, fusion splicers, test equipment and training. AFL’s service portfolio includes market-leading positions with the foremost communications companies supporting inside plant central office, EF&I, outside plant, enterprise and wireless areas.

Founded in 1984, AFL is proud to offer engineering expertise, exceptional products and reliable service that help our customers improve their critical and electrical infrastructure. AFL has operations in the U.S., Mexico, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific. The company is headquartered in Spartanburg, SC, and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan. For more information, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

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AFL Secures Patent for OTDR Technology

Spartanburg, SC and Belmont, NH – July 15, 2013 – AFL has been awarded a patent for “Optical Time Domain Reflectometer,” US Patent 8,411,259. The patent covers Optical Time Domain Reflectometers (OTDRs) where multiple wavelength-specific test signal generators and detector channels are combined on a single OTDR test port. The approach enables users to determine if a fiber is live or dark, to measure the power level of any signals present on the fiber and to apply test signals (including non-interfering signals) on dark and live fibers, all without the need for swapping test ports or test equipment.

The NOYES® OFL280 and FLX380 FlexTester OTDRs with ServiceSafe™ leverage this newly-patented approach to automatically detect live fibers, measure downstream signal levels and restrict tests signals to only those wavelengths not present on the fiber.

“Our focus is to provide innovative, easy-to-use solutions and services to make our customers successful,” commented Seán Adam, general manager of AFL’s NOYES Test and Inspection business unit. “This unique OTDR architecture reduces the complexity and time it takes to test a PON network, increasing our customers’ efficiency and reducing their test costs.”

Existing OTDRs typically have a number of test ports. One port, for example, may be the source of dark (out-of-service) test signals while another may be the source of live (in-service) test signals. Because all test signals are not present on one port, users are required to swap the fiber under test from one port to the other to complete testing. In addition, OTDRs may include PON power meter ports for measuring the signals present on a fiber. AFL’s newly-patented approach is the first to combine a PON power meter with a live/dark fiber OTDR on a single test port.

For additional information on ServiceSafe™, OFL280 and FLX380 FlexTester OTDRs, please visit www.AFLglobal.com.

About AFL
AFL provides industry-leading products and services to the electric utility, broadband, communications, OEM, enterprise, wireless and transit rail markets as well as the emerging markets of oil and gas, mining, nuclear, avionics, medical, renewable and intelligent grid. The company’s diverse product portfolio includes fiber optic cable, transmission and substation accessories, outside plant equipment, connectors, fusion splicers, test equipment and training. AFL’s service portfolio includes market-leading positions with the foremost communications companies supporting inside plant central office, EF&I, outside plant, enterprise and wireless areas.

Founded in 1984, AFL is proud to offer engineering expertise, exceptional products and reliable service that help our customers improve their critical and electrical infrastructure. AFL has operations in the U.S., Mexico, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific. The company is headquartered in Spartanburg, SC, and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan. For more information, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

AFL’s Five-Year Warranty Sets New Standard

Spartanburg, SC and Lowell, MA – July 18, 2013 – AFL increased the warranty period on NOYES® Optical Power Meters (OPM), Optical Light Sources (OLS) and Fiber Identifiers (OFI) to five years, at least two years greater than industry standards on these products. In addition, because of the products’ overall durability, AFL is extending the recommended calibration interval from one year to three years.

“We are confident that our test sets are the most reliable on the market today,” explains Seán Adam, general manager for AFL’s NOYES Test and Inspection Division. “By increasing the calibration interval and warranty period, we are giving our customers additional assurance that they are buying a high quality product and that their investment is well-protected.”

NOYES Test and Inspection products are in use daily around the world. From Optical Time Domain Reflectometers (OTDRs) and loss test kits to inspection and cleaning products, NOYES products are engineered to endure outside plant environments, and feature intuitive user interfaces that provide quick results without complicated training requirements.

Adam continues, “We remain focused on our core mission–to deliver quality solutions and services that delight our customers. The new five-year warranty and three-year calibration interval on our test sets supports and communicates this commitment to quality and long standing performance.”

For additional information on AFL, NOYES test equipment and additional products and services, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

About AFL
AFL provides industry-leading products and services to the electric utility, broadband, communications, OEM, enterprise, wireless and transit rail markets as well as the emerging markets of oil and gas, mining, nuclear, avionics, medical, renewable and intelligent grid. The company’s diverse product portfolio includes fiber optic cable, transmission and substation accessories, outside plant equipment, connectors, fusion splicers, test equipment and training. AFL’s service portfolio includes market-leading positions with the foremost communications companies supporting inside plant central office, EF&I, outside plant, enterprise and wireless areas.

Founded in 1984, AFL is proud to offer engineering expertise, exceptional products and reliable service that help our customers improve their critical and electrical infrastructure. AFL has operations in the U.S., Mexico, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific. The company is headquartered in Spartanburg, SC, and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan. For more information, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

AFL Introduces New Family of NYFORS™ Recoating Products

Spartanburg, SC – August 12, 2013 – AFL now offers Nyfors Teknologi AB’s new family of recoating products including the ReCoater 2™, AutoCoater 2™, MiniCoater 2™ and ReCoater 2 XL™. Ideal for restoring the protective coating on optical fibers, NYFORS’ new recoaters are sold exclusively by AFL in the North American market.

Perfect for high strength applications, the ReCoater 2 allows the operator to choose different fiber and fiber coating diameters. Fibers can be recoated at exactly the same diameter as well as smaller or larger diameters than the original fiber. This product can also be upgraded to the AutoCoater 2 by adding the AutoCoater 2 Dispensing Robot.

With the addition of the Dispensing Robot, which contains a remote reservoir tank, injection pump, supply lines and injection needle, the AutoCoater 2 performs fully automatic skill-independent recoating operations. The remote reservoir allows users to quickly change recoating compounds without the need to purge and clean the tank.

The MiniCoater 2 is best suited for small scale productions where fiber types and dimensions need to be changed frequently. The product encompasses a cordless battery operation that allows for easy transportation, and similar to the ReCoater 2 and AutoCoater 2, the MiniCoater 2 can recoat fibers to a uniform, undersized or oversized diameter.

Lastly, the ReCoater 2 XL is designed to process long sections of stripped fiber, accepting molds of up to 110 mm length. In addition, the ReCoater 2 XL, AutoCoater 2, ReCoater 2 and MiniCoater 2 enable shorter curing times by using an UV LED array positioned along the length of the mold. All NYFORS recoaters, except the MiniCoater 2, come with an ergonomic, bench-top design for comfortable operation.

For more information about AFL, its products and services, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

About AFL
AFL provides industry-leading products and services to the electric utility, broadband, communications, OEM, enterprise, wireless and transit rail markets as well as the emerging markets of oil and gas, mining, nuclear, avionics, medical, renewable and intelligent grid. The company’s diverse product portfolio includes fiber optic cable, transmission and substation accessories, outside plant equipment, connectors, fusion splicers, test equipment and training. AFL’s service portfolio includes market-leading positions with the foremost communications companies supporting inside plant central office, EF&I, outside plant, enterprise and wireless areas.

Founded in 1984, AFL is proud to offer engineering expertise, exceptional products and reliable service that help our customers improve their critical and electrical infrastructure. AFL has operations in the U.S., Mexico, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific. The company is headquartered in Spartanburg, S.C., and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Fujikura Ltd. of Japan. For more information, visit www.AFLglobal.com.

About NYFORS
Nyfors Teknologi AB develops fiber preparation equipment for high strength and specialty fusion splicing applications. Specializing in advanced solutions for fiber pre- and post-processing, the product range includes: precision fiber cleavers and cleave check interferometers, fiber optical recoaters and tensile testers, and custom manufacturing solutions for e.g., fiber optic gyroscope production. Behind our products you find unique and original expertise accumulated during more than 20 years of research and development for the fusion splicing industry. For more information about NYFORS, visit www.nyfors.se.

Agilent Technologies Introduces Industry’s Most Comprehensive Compliance Testing for 10GBASE-KR and 40GBASE-KR4 Ethernet Backplane Standards

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 1, 2013 – Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today introduced compliance testing support for 10GBASE-KR Ethernet backplane standards used in networking applications. The N8814A 10GBASE-KR Ethernet compliance application is Agilent’s solution for transmitter tests. It includes 10GBASE-KR and optional 40GBASE-KR4 Ethernet backplane test standards as described in the IEEE 802.3ap specification. The application is compatible with all currently shipping Infiniium real-time oscilloscopes that have bandwidth of 25 GHz or more.

Growing consumer demand for more bandwidth from the Advanced Telecommunications Computing Architecture is driving the need for more network testing. 10GBASE-KR and 40GBASE-KR4 are widely used standards for networking hardware. These standards allow a large number of network devices (including routers, switches and servers) to communicate across an Ethernet backplane.

The Agilent 10GBASE-KR compliance application provides an automated test script that allows engineers to quickly and reliably test Ethernet signals across a backplane. An option is also available for testing 40GBase-KR4 devices using Agilent’s switch matrix. The compliance application can be automated to run over extended periods, and it allows engineers to add incremental user-defined tests.

Additional information about Agilent’s N8814A 10GBASE-KR compliance application can be found at www.agilent.com/find/10G-KR. Product images are available at www.agilent.com/find/10G-KR_images.

U.S. Pricing and Availability

The N8814A 10GBASE-KR compliance application is available now at $6,900. The application includes support for the 10GBASE-KR Ethernet backplane standard and offers optional support for the 40GBASE-KR4 Ethernet backplane standard. Additional switch matrix hardware and software options are required for 40GBASE-KR4 compliance testing.

Agilent’s complete portfolio of oscilloscopes is available in a variety of form factors, from 20 MHz to 90 GHz. Agilent scopes offer industry-leading specifications and powerful applications.

About Agilent Technologies

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is the world’s premier measurement company and a technology leader in chemical analysis, life sciences, diagnostics, electronics and communications. The company’s 20,500 employees serve customers in more than 100 countries. Agilent had revenues of $6.9 billion in fiscal 2012. Information about Agilent is available at www.agilent.com.

TRADE NEWS: Agilent Technologies Enhances X-Series Signal Analyzers with Improved Phase-Noise Performance, Sweep Speed

SANTA CLARA, Calif., Aug. 1, 2013 – Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today announced greater core performance in two of its X-Series signal analyzers, the midrange MXA and general-purpose EXA. The respective improvements in phase noise allow engineers to more precisely characterize the frequency stability of oscillators and synthesizers. The faster sweep speeds of these analyzers accelerate searches for spurious signals in the testing of transmitters, active antenna arrays and power amplifiers.

Phase-noise performance is a key factor in obtaining low and accurate error vector magnitude values for communication systems and devices. In the MXA, phase noise has been improved by 10 dB or more for close-in and pedestal offset frequencies, providing a best-in-class advantage of 7 dB over the closest comparable competitor. EXA phase-noise performance is up to 5 dB better across wide offset frequencies.

In manufacturing test, spur searches in wide spans at narrow resolution bandwidths have been slow and are often the cause of bottlenecks. The new “fast sweep” capability of these analyzers is up to five times faster than that of competitive models, depending on resolution bandwidth. Faster sweeps improve measurement throughput and make it easier to check the spurious-free dynamic range of devices under test.

“The MXA enhancements are an important complement to our recently introduced options for 160-MHz analysis bandwidth and real-time spectrum analysis,” said Jim Curran, marketing manager of Agilent’s Microwave Communications Division. “Together, these capabilities can help our customers ensure that their devices will transmit accurately and deliver excellent quality of service.”

Enhancements to X-Series Measurement Applications

Agilent also announced new capabilities in three of the measurement applications available for X-Series signal analyzers. The N9069A noise figure measurement application now includes advanced features that support measurements of multistage converters, multipliers and dividers.

The industry-leading N9080A (FDD) and N9082A (TDD) LTE measurement applications now support multimedia broadcast single-frequency network (MBSFN) signals with mixed cyclic-prefix subframe structures. This allows engineers to test physical multicast channels and MBSFN reference signals using virtually any subframe-structure configuration.

The Agilent N9083A multi-standard radio measurement application has been enhanced to support noncontiguous test configurations as defined in 3GPP Release 10. This enables one-button measurements of the cumulative adjacent-channel leakage ratio.

U.S. Pricing and Availability

The new capabilities are available now worldwide. Depending on maximum frequency coverage, base pricing ranges from $31,525 to $50,767 for the N9020A MXA and from $17,470 to $36,645 for the N9010A EXA.

Fast sweep is included at no extra charge with the purchase of an MXA or EXA configured with select options, or as an upgrade for existing instruments.

More information is available at www.agilent.com/find/X-series_enhancements. High-resolution images are available at www.agilent.come/find/MXA_images.

Agilent Technologies Receives Global Growth Leadership Award for Oscilloscopes

SANTA CLARA, Calif., July 17, 2013 – Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) today announced it has received Frost & Sullivan’s Global Growth Leadership Award for Oscilloscopes.

Frost & Sullivan’s independent analysis of the oscilloscopes market showed that Agilent demonstrated significant growth over the past two years, outperforming all other market participants and gaining significant share. In the same period, competitors either lost market share or did not grow at nearly the same rate.

“There were four major factors driving Agilent’s growth performance: innovation in the high-performance offering, the ability to effectively address the mid- and mainstream market needs, overall product quality and reliability, and a strong product distribution strategy,” said Jessy Cavazos, Frost & Sullivan industry director. “Our evaluation revealed that Agilent had made great strides in the global oscilloscopes market over the past three years, which has resulted in an impressive market share gain of more than 8.5 percentage points. Such performance is the result of a heavy focus on research and development, which has translated into the launch of innovative products across the various segments of the oscilloscopes market.”

“We are really excited to receive this level of recognition,” said Jay Alexander, vice president and general manager of Agilent’s Oscilloscope and Protocol Division. “The global oscilloscope market is highly competitive, and we are committed to delivering innovative, high-value, best-performance products while continuously responding to customer needs. That’s why, since 2002, engineers have made Agilent the fastest-growing oscilloscope company in the world.”

All Agilent oscilloscopes, from economy to high-performance models, come with a three-year warranty. www.agilent.com/find/ThreeYearWarranty.

Additional information on the Frost & Sullivan award can be found at www.agilent.com/find/OscilloscopesAward_backgrounder. Agilent’s complete offering of oscilloscopes can be found at www.agilent.com/find/Oscilloscopes.

About Agilent Technologies

Article from ECMAG.com = JAMES CARLINI: THE DA VINCI OF INTELLIGENT BUILDINGS

By Frank Bisbee

Today, there are many companies and organizations struggling to keep up with technology and maximize their systems and profit potentials. In the public sector, Local, State and Federal Government units are facing similar challenges dealing with efficiency, controls, and service through technology. Education facilities from K -12 to our colleges and universities are addressing technology boldly in all areas of their operations.

The concept of Building Automation now extends to capabilities that were not even conceived of a few years ago. The world of Commercial Real Estate (CRE) is adapting to a new set of competitive challenges by using technology in the buildings to serve the tenants. Technology is rewriting the book in healthcare facilities in so many ways that is difficult to keep up.

As we marvel at the new designs of Integrated Systems in Smart Buildings, it is interesting to look at one of the visionaries that helped us see this future.

Like Da Vinci, Carlini’s comments and his defining concepts of emerging multi-disciplinary concepts and building strategies are well ahead of the industry’s adoption. – Frank Bisbee

DEFINING NEW INTERSECTIONS OF INTEREST

In the great established and evolving domains of real estate, infrastructure, technology, and regional economic development, there is an intersection where all these diverse worlds of industries, as well as complex developments, meet.

At that multi-faceted crossroad, you will come across James Carlini defining the undefined. You will find him classifying and constructing the framework of interrelationships of these four vast areas in order to crystallize a multi-disciplinary approach and strategy for high-tech real estate. Understanding that strategy will enable organizations to develop and shape the structure that can be used effectively in today’s mobile internet age.

His knack of being able to develop an understandable structure, where no logical structure has been available, has helped companies with improving their marketing strategies, broadening their offerings in real estate to a more sophisticated corporate tenant, and improving the impact of mission critical networks for both companies and municipalities. For a court case, he actually developed a model for evaluating the “virtual real estate” of banner ads and what their valuations should be based on where they were positioned on the website (home page, following pages, static ads and rotating banners).

PIONEER OF MEASURING BUILDING INTELLIGENCE

Carlini started back in the mid-1980s when he was given the task by a large, real estate firm to make sure they were getting their money’s worth on a $20,000,000 retrofit of one of their properties, the Seafirst Building in Seattle, Washington. By that time, he had already gained a broad knowledge of telephony and software engineering from Bell Telephone Laboratories as well as Illinois Bell headquarters. He was Director of Telecommunications and Computer Hardware consulting for Arthur Young when he embarked upon this project.

He developed the Carlini Building IQ Test to measure the amount of technology within the Seafirst Building and then compare it with the surrounding Class A buildings within the downtown Seattle area. This was a radically different approach to competitive marketing strategies that compared traditional amenities of one building to the other. His test actually measured and compared what technologies the buildings deployed.

He actually coined the phrase “intelligent amenities” that defined the new and emerging technologies that were starting to be placed in buildings: Information, Communications, and Building Automation Technologies. These technologies became critical as more sophisticated tenants depended on communications-based information systems to support their core businesses.

He developed the initial framework of the concept and wrote about it in several publications in 1985 including Government Data Systems: Intelligent Buildings: Smart Buildings, Dumb Buildings: How Do You Measure Their IQ?” and in the Fall 1985 edition of New York University’s Real Estate Review. In his Real Estate Review article, Measuring A Building’s IQ, he set the foundation for what network infrastructure as well as other technologies would be in buildings of the future. With such a clear visionary definition, his words still ring true today.

Carlini further defined four levels of Smart Buildings from the lowest level: “The Frankenstein” which offered basic and traditional amenities to the highest level, “the Einstein” which offered sophisticated network services as well as redundant power.

He pointed out, As buildings become smarter, the cabling issue becomes critical. Such requirements would affect the architectural design of new buildings and impose a need for improvements on existing buildings.

Today, companies are still trying to find out the winning combination of wired and wireless transmission media in order to service the constantly evolving corporate workspace. His insights were before WiFi, DAS and Smartphones, yet his framework accommodates these new and emerging technologies.

Back in 1985, Carlini focused on the importance of having the right network infrastructure within the building and warned that existing building could become obsolete. In order to remain competitive, he suggested:

Cabling is also important to owners of existing buildings who want to turn their “Frankenstein” into an “Einstein” building.

Another concept that he pointed out is that the network infrastructure within the building should match up with the lifespan of the building and not of the technology that hangs off of it: The wiring should try to reflect the building’s lifespan, rather than the communications/ information system’s lifespan.

In other words, you should not be upgrading the wiring of a building every time you switch out technology. This practice has still yet to be fully adopted and the waste that goes on with companies installing network infrastructure that becomes prematurely obsolete is widespread.

In 1985, Carlini concludes Measuring A Building’s IQ with this vision:

As more of the real estate industry becomes comfortable with the idea, sophisticated marketing approaches will be created and refined. The question, “How smart a building do you need?” will become as common as, “How much space do you want to lease?”

In 1988, he was asked to write a chapter further defining, “Measuring a Building’s IQ” in Johnson Controls’ Intelligent Building Sourcebook. (Published by Prentice Hall in 1988).

By that time, he had concluded the comparison of buildings and project work for the real estate company. He also had several other articles appear on the results of that project including one in Commercial Renovation. He changed the way buildings were assessed and compared, yet appraisers today still do not compare intelligent amenities when valuating buildings.

In 1990, Carlini worked with AT&T Network Systems to develop a better marketing approach for selling central offices. At $40,000,000-plus for each one, these were very sophisticated systems to sell to Regional Bell Operating Companies. Again, Carlini devised a better approach by developing a framework for features as well as a better naming convention for them.

He also developed the Twelve Criteria for RFPs that focused on twelve categories rather than just “price” in making a buying decision. All the criteria started with R, F, or P: Reliability, Redundancy, Reduced Operating Costs, Resources, Risks, Realities, Functionality, Flexibility, Familiarity, and Price, Performance, & Personnel.

AT&T shared this with all its RBOC customers to distribute to those making decisions on premise-based versus central office-based phone systems. He later used this Twelve Criteria for RFPs framework in courses he taught at Northwestern University both at the undergrad level and the Executive Masters level.

Knowing that you needed to have a well-defined capabilities framework to sell complex systems and services, Carlini devised a way to market complex systems by providing a yardstick to measure the competition. His advice to AT&T was, “If you don’t give them a yardstick, your competitors will - and you will never measure up on their yardstick.”

Carlini became an advocate for using fiber optic networks in communications long before most companies were even thinking about implementing fiber optic networks in campus environments. He believed changing and upgrading the network infrastructure would “transform organizational Titanics into Starships” by adding huge amounts of bandwidth capacity and provide capabilities that were not attainable with copper-based media.

One of James Carlini’s largest projects was also one of the most significant projects utilizing SONET networks.

In his role as Consultant to the Mayor’s Office on the Chicago 911 Emergency Communications Center, he recommended to go with fiber optics to connect to the central offices feeding the center as well as connecting all the police and fire stations with fiber. In the end, Chicago had over 176 miles of fiber optics connecting over 80 buildings. This was long before any company even thought about undertaking this big an implementation of a fiber-optic based campus network.

Carlini worked on other projects including multi-million dollar lawsuits involving network infrastructure and mission critical networks. He was an advocate of using fiber optics and worked on the planning of the 800-acre DuPage Business Center which has multiple network carriers coming into the campus with speeds in excess of 40 Gigabits per second. (This was at a time supposed ‘in-the-know” associations, like Educause, were coming out with whitepapers advocating a very obsolete 100Megabits per second as a baseline for enterprise network transmissions).

In his research while working on this project he came up with several white papers defining this next-generation real estate as well as finding matching endeavors in Asia (Hong Kong, Mainland China, and Taiwan).

CLASSIFYING NEXT-GENERATION REAL ESTATE: INTELLIGENT BUSINESS CAMPUSES

Around 2006-2008 is when Carlini started to see that single disciplines were merging and overlapping to create next-generation real estate. He defined Intelligent Business Campuses (IBCs), Intelligent Retail/ Entertainment/ Convention center (IREC) Complexes, and Intelligent Infrastructure in a series of white papers. The whitepaper on Intelligent Infrastructure was written and presented for the US Department of Homeland Security at Columbia University in 2009.

He has spoken in different international conferences on Intelligent Infrastructure as well as 21^st century real estate pointing out these huge paradigm shifts in real estate.

He has developed numerous rules-of-thumb within his 100s of articles and whitepapers. He has actively pursued replacing obsolete rules-of-thumb that some in the industry still cling to.

His advice to projects in the planning stage has always been to look at broadband connectivity as a must-have, and not a hoped for.

QUOTES AND CARLINI-ISMs

James Carlini is a firm believer of gaining wisdom through other leaders’ quotes. He shared some of them with me. Here are some that have influenced him throughout the years:

Malcolm Forbes - “He, who has the wheel, sets the direction.”

“Any fool can handle the helm in calm seas.”

General George S. Patton - “A good plan violently executed now is

better than a perfect plan executed next week.”

Harold Geneen, former Chairman, ITT - “Words are words, Explanations are

explanations,

Promises are Promises, but only

Performance is Reality.”

He has many quotes and his own “Carlini-isms” as he put it. He used them in classes to point out things that practicing professionals should be aware of as well as things they should avoid.

I asked Mr. Carlini what are the ones he is most noted for or ones he thought were significant. He gave me some of his quotes, the year he first said them and a brief comment about them:

“Leading-edge organizations do not maintain their position using trailing-edge technologies.” (1984) – When I said this at Arthur Young, I did not know how timeless this observation was. It really speaks volumes.

“There are no experts in this industry. The best you can be is a good student – always learning.” (1986) – I used to start all my courses at Northwestern University with this to put people at ease.

“There’s no such thing as a new $5,000 Rolls-Royce. You get what you pay for.” (1986) – I used this one a lot in class as well as its converse logic: “If you only have $5,000, there’s no such thing as a Formula 1 Yugo.”

“You cannot get Superman by paying Jimmy Olson wages.” (1999) – This was a comment I first made in a job interview where they were looking for a very dynamic vice president, but did not want to pay for all the skill sets they were looking for. I later taught executives in my courses at Northwestern University that you pay for what you get and that skilled people do not come cheap.

“The three most important words in real estate today are, “Location, Location, Connectivity.”” (2004) – I was quoted in an article for Business 2.0 on issues with locating a business outside of Silicon Valley. I said this would be important to the success of the business and since then decided to write a book about this shift in real estate priorities.

“Economic Development Equals Broadband Connectivity, and Broadband Connectivity Equals Jobs” (2008) – This is my conclusion after working on and researching several next-generation real estate projects.

Carlini has worked on international issues and developed a course on International Applications of Technology long before anyone had international courses in their curriculum. Some people in grad programs took this Northwestern undergrad course and transferred it to their university for graduate-level credit.

His latest endeavors include putting all of this logic, wisdom and defining frameworks in an upcoming book, “Location, Location, Connectivity”.

James Carlini will be the keynote speaker at AGL Magazine’s Seminar in Chicago on September 19^th. Details at - http://agl-mag.com/agl-midwest-regional-conference/ Carlini can be reached at 773-370-1888 or james.carlini@sbcglobal.net

INFRASTRUCTURE: THE PLATFORM FOR COMMERCE

“FIVE THOUSAND YEARS IN THE MAKING”

LAYER	LEVEL	DOMINANT INITIAL DRIVER OF IMPLEMENTATION IMPORTANCE
SPACE (INTERPLANETARY) (FUTURE)	8	JUST BEGINNING TO BE BUILT ((Space shuttles, space station, satellite networks) Future: mid-21^st century, 22^nd century? US, RUSSIA, JAPAN, CHINA?)
BROADBAND CONNECTIVITY NETWORK (CYBERINFRASTRUCTURE)	7B (wireless) 7A (wired)	CHINA, JAPAN, S. KOREA, NETHERLANDS, US (beginning 21^st Century, IBCs, IIPs & IRECs)
AIRPORTS	6	EUROPE, UNITED STATES (mid-20^th Century)
POWER (GRIDS, NUCLEAR POWER, OIL)	5B (Nuclear) 5A (everything else)	UNITED STATES (beginning/ mid 20^th Century)
TELEPHONE NETWORK (ANALOG VOICE ONLY)	4	UNITED STATES (beginning/mid 20^th Century)
RAILROADS	3	UNITED STATES (mid-1800s)
ROADS/BRIDGES	2	ROMAN EMPIRE (500BC- 476AD)
PORTS/ DOCKS/ WATER	1	PHOENICIANS (1200BC-900BC) EGYPTIANS (3000BC-1400BC)

This framework depicting Infrastructure is critical because it provides a more universal look at what encompasses the infrastructure for today’s global economy rather than what many people hold as the traditional definition of infrastructure (roads, bridges, railroads, and maybe the power grid). Economic development decisions affecting regional sustainability must include all facets of infrastructure in order for them to be viable. – James Carlini

Reprinted with permission from the ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR magazine. http://www.ecmag.com

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR magazine serves the field of electrical construction, including inside, line work, lighting, maintenance, control, electrical work, voice/data systems, security, fire and life safety, fiber optics, home and building automation systems, integrated building systems applications and others applicable to the field. The magazine is part of the National Electrical Contractors Association, but serves the entire electrical construction industry. The 85,000+ readers include business owners, partners, presidents, engineers, estimators, purchasing agents, project managers, supervisors, foremen, electricians and others.

ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR Magazine is the Official Publication of the National Electrical Contractors Association. (NECA) ECmag.com is the fastest growing and most visited site by electrical contractors in the industry and offers the broadest array of digital information available, all of which is fully searchable with archives going back to 2000. ECmag.com contains videos, webinars, white papers and a whole lot more. –

See more at: http://www.ecmag.com/about-us#sthash.Q42IYU0d.dpuf

http://www.neca.org

The expanding role of the National Electrical Contractors Association. (NECA) now encompasses the entire scope of the Integrated Systems Contractors.

POWER – LIGHTING - CONTROLS – COMMUNICATIONS – SAFETY/SECURITY

And more…

BICSI Releases New Standard For Electronic Safety And Security System Design (ESS)

Tampa, Florida, July 24, 2013—BICSI, the international association supporting the information technology systems (ITS) industry with information, education and knowledge assessment, announces the release of its latest standard, ANSI/BICSI 005-2013, Electronic Safety and Security (ESS) System Design and Implementation Best Practices.

The need for security is almost as old as mankind itself. Today, security systems are converging onto the network and its cabling infrastructure at an increasing rate. As the systems used within security have become more complex, so too has the cabling infrastructure to address both communication and security requirements.

Little has been written to support this convergence of security and cabling infrastructure, until now. BICSI 005 bridges the two worlds of security and communications by providing the security professional with the requirements and recommendations of a structured cabling infrastructure needed to support today’s security systems while providing the cabling design professional information on different elements within safety and security systems that affect the design. BICSI 005 also provides information on the concept of “direct attach” and how it may be used within many forms of ESS systems.

“The protection against risks and threats to life-safety, business and personal assets is and always will be a matter of great importance,” said Jerry Bowman, RCDD, NTS, RTPM, CISSP, CPP, CDCDP, BICSI President. “BICSI 005 is a tremendous resource for those working on the design and implementation of electronic safety and security and related infrastructure. This standard, like all BICSI standards, establishes best practices for the supporting infrastructure for a variety of security functions and systems. We truly appreciate the efforts of all the volunteer subject matter experts who contributed to this publication.”

The BICSI Standards Program is an ANSI-accredited, consensus-based standards development organization. It creates standards and guidelines for use in the design, installation and integration of information technology systems (ITS) and related telecommunications fields. BICSI standards are written to define current practices and drive improvement in quality and performance over the spectrum of voice, data, electronic safety and security, project management and audio and video technologies, and encompass optical fiber, copper and wireless-based distribution systems.

More information regarding the BICSI 005 standard can be found at www.bicsi.org/005.

BICSI is a professional association supporting the information technology systems (ITS) industry. ITS covers the spectrum of voice, data, electronic safety & security, project management and audio & video technologies. It encompasses the design, project management and installation of pathways, spaces, optical 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 100 countries. www.bicsi.org

BOMA International Elects 2013-2015 Executive Committee Members

(WASHINGTON – July 25, 2013) The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International elected five Executive Committee members at the 2013 Every Building Conference & Expo in San Diego.

The BOMA International Executive Committee is responsible for developing the strategic direction and policies for the association. Executive Committee members work with BOMA International officers and executive staff to maximize the effectiveness of BOMA International, while ensuring resources are available to achieve its goals. Executive Committee members serve a minimum term of two years.

The Board of Governors of BOMA International elected the following individuals to the Executive Committee:

· Shane Baggett, CPA, RPA, senior property manager, Columbia Property Trust , BOMA/Dallas

· Susan E. Engstrom, RPA, FMA, senior real estate manager, ACP Property Services, LLC, BOMA/Greater Phoenix

· Cary Fronstin, LEED Green Associate, RPA, associate director, Property Management, Newmark Grubb Knight Frank, BOMA/Ft. Lauderdale and the Palm Beaches

· Scott O. Jones, operations manager, Northern California, Jacobs Engineering Group, BOMA/San Francisco (Second term)

· Sheldon Opperman, executive vice president, Compass Properties, LLC, BOMA Wisconsin

Shane Baggett currently serves as senior property manager at Columbia Property Trust/Wells Real Estate. Baggett is president of BOMA/Dallas and recently was named the local association’s Outstanding Member of the Year. Within BOMA International, Baggett has served on the Finance, State Government Affairs, Government Affairs and Emergency Preparedness Committees.

Susan Engstrom has been in the property management field for more than 30 years. She currently works as senior real estate manager for ACP Property Services, LLC. Engstrom served as president of BOMA/Greater Phoenix in 2004 and 2009 and president of Arizona BOMA in 2010 and 2011. She has chaired both the State Government Affairs and Government Affairs Committes for BOMA International and actively participates in BOMA’s advocacy efforts. Engstrom was named Pacific Southwest Regional Member of the Year in 2012 and again in 2013.

Cary Fronstin has more than 19 years of commercial property and asset management experience. As the Associate Director of Property Management for Newmark Grubb Knight Frank, he manages a portfolio containing 7.5 million square feet of office, industrial and retail space. Fronstin is an active member of BOMA/Fort Lauderdale and the Palm Beaches, having served as president from 2003-2004 and currently serving as Vice President. He currently chairs BOMA International’s Industry Defense Fund Oversight Committee.

This will be Scott Jones’ second term on the BOMA International Executive Committee. He currently serves as Operations Manager in Northern California for Jacobs Engineering Group. Prior to his recent move to San Francisco, Jones was an active member of BOMA/Fort Worth, where he served as president from 2008-2010. Jones also has served as chair of BOMA International’s State Government Affairs Committee and chair of the Careers in Real Estate Task Force Returning Veterans Outreach Sub-Group.

Sheldon Oppermann currently serves as executive vice president of Compass Properties, LLC. He recently completed a one-year term as president of BOMA Wisconsin, following his service as vice president from 2009-2012. Oppermann also serves on BOMA International’s Government Affairs and Asset Management Course Committees. One of the buildings in his portfolio, CityCenter at 735 in Milwaukee, Wis., won a 2013 International TOBY Award in the Historical Building category.

About BOMA International
The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International is a federation of 93 BOMA U.S. associations, BOMA Canada and its 11 regional associations and 13 BOMA international affiliates. Founded in 1907, BOMA represents the owners and managers of all commercial property types, including nearly 10 billion square feet of U.S. office space that supports 3.7 million jobs and contributes $205 billion to the U.S. GDP. Its mission is to advance the interests of the entire commercial real estate industry through advocacy, education, research, standards and information. Find BOMA online at www.boma.org.

BOMA International Releases New Healthcare Real Estate Guidebook

Developing, Leasing and Managing Healthcare Facilities in an Evolving Healthcare Environment Gives Healthcare Real Estate Professionals an Edge in a Complex and Growing Industry

(WASHINGTON, D.C. – August 14, 2013) The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International has released its newest publication, Developing, Leasing and Managing Healthcare Facilities in an Evolving Healthcare Environment. The publication, which is authored by healthcare real estate expert Neil Carolan, offers guidance on how to keep pace in this dynamic industry with in-depth analysis that breaks down the varying issues and trends confronting healthcare real estate professionals.

Much has changed in healthcare real estate in the 10 years since BOMA last published a guidebook that looked at the complexities of development, financing, leasing and management of healthcare facilities. The updated 2013 edition examines the impact of healthcare reform, STARK regulations and an aging population, among other factors, on the industry and provides specific instruction on the steps seasoned professionals and new practitioners should take to be successful.

“This guidebook is a must-have resource for healthcare real estate professionals” said Co-Chair of BOMA International’s Medical Office and Healthcare Facilities Committee and Head of Healthcare Real Estate for Raymond James, Laca Wong-Hammond. “As the types of medical assets continue to evolve with the changing landscape of healthcare delivery and regulations, practitioners need to stay one step ahead. It’s an exciting market sector with real opportunity for the informed participant.”

“Healthcare real estate has experienced significant change since this guidebook was last published in 2003,” noted Co-Chair of BOMA International’s Medical Office and Healthcare Facilities Committee and President and CEO of Healthcare Real Estate Consulting, LLC, Neil Carolan. “The healthcare delivery system as we know it is transforming and we revised the guidebook to highlight the developing best practices, trends and challenges that anyone developing, leasing or managing a healthcare facility needs to be aware to gain an edge in this competitive market.”

Developing, Leasing and Managing Healthcare Facilities in an Evolving Healthcare Environment features expert guidance detailing the core functions and nuances of healthcare real estate, with specific focus on:

· Pre-Development and Development

· Financing

· Forms of Ownership

· Architectural Issues

· Leasing

· Management

· Evolving Business Models; and

· Impacts of Healthcare Reform.

Developing, Leasing and Managing Healthcare Facilities in an Evolving Healthcare Environment is available on BOMA International’s online store.

About BOMA International

The Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA) International is a federation of 93 BOMA U.S. associations, BOMA Canada and its 11 regional associations and 13 BOMA international affiliates. Founded in 1907, BOMA represents the owners and managers of all commercial property types, including nearly 10 billion square feet of U.S. office space that supports 3.7 million jobs and contributes $205 billion to the U.S. GDP. Its mission is to advance the interests of the entire commercial real estate industry through advocacy, education, research, standards and information. Find BOMA online at www.boma.org.

Additive Manufacturing Needs Broadband Connectivity” A Carlini Presentation – Chicago Sept. 19th

Both large and small companies are developing custom approaches to manufacturing anything from hard-to-find car parts, to dental implants, jewelry, jet parts, bio-medical parts and everything in-between.

CARLINI-ISM : Adequate bandwidth will go from gigabit speeds to terabit speeds faster than you may think as 3D printing takes hold in all types of industries.

Also, mark your calendars for September 19th. I will be the keynote speaker at the AGL Regional Conference at the Westin Chicago Northwest, 400 Park Blvd, Itasca, IL 60143 on Sept. 19th

My presentation will be, "WiFi, DAS, & Smartphones in 21^st Century Real Estate”. The latest concepts on the convergence of WiFi, DAS and Smartphone technologies for multi-venue environments. This is the next step going from single-venue stadiums/airports to combined Commercial venues: Intelligent Retail, Entertainment, Convention center Complexes (IREC Complexes). More details to follow.

James Carlini, President &

Certified Infrastructure Consultant

CARLINI & ASSOCIATES (since 1986)

Strategic Infrastructure Consultants

773-370-1888

“Additive Manufacturing Needs Broadband Connectivity”

There is a lot of promise from the growing industry of 3D printers and manufacturing products through their use as well as new 3D scanners. This technology is providing a second industrial revolution in the United States as well as globally. Both large and small companies are developing custom approaches to manufacturing anything from hard-to-find car parts, to dental implants, jewelry, jet parts, bio-medical parts and everything in-between.

The 3D printers required to make these one-off custom products are not expensive anymore and because of that “affordable pricing”, there are many start-ups creating new niche markets everyday as well as well-established large manufacturers looking at a whole new level of intricate customization and affordability in making prototypes.

The intelligent amenity needed in real estate to support this new technology is bandwidth and lots of it. Most in commercial real estate don’t realize that their properties are probably obsolete. In the last several years, corporate site selection committees that didn’t even know what broadband connectivity was a decade ago, now have it in their criteria list as one of the top three attributes a property must have.

HOW MUCH BANDWIDTH DO WE NEED?

Last year (2012) in the New York Times, Thomas Friedman said,

“Big bandwidth, combined with 3-D printers, would also allow for the rapid prototyping of all kinds of manufactured products that can then be made anywhere.”

Back in 2004, I talked about having gigabit speeds in order to attract new businesses out of Silicon Valley and that the three most important words in real estate have become, “Location, Location, Connectivity” in an interview with Business 2.0 Magazine.

Several years ago in 2006, I started saying that 1Gigabit per second (1Gbps) should be the baseline when it comes to speeds coming into the consumer. There was a high-tech 800-acre property developed that in the planning stage, we said that it should provide 40Gbps to any corporate tenant that was leasing space.

Of course we got the “Are you crazy?” response from those still living in the 1950s, but we surged ahead anyway and created a next-generation industrial park or Intelligent Business Campus (IBC).

The time has come where even one gigabit is not enough bandwidth for the new emerging applications being used in additive manufacturing.

A key component for any industrial park today needs to be bandwidth and lots of it. It is not enough to have 100Mbps (100 Megabits per second (which is 1/10 the rate of 1Gbps) as some out-of-date experts would still lead you to believe. You need properties to offer multi-gigabit speeds in order to attract all the cutting-edge companies.

The quicker property management companies figure this out, the faster they will be screaming for network infrastructure to be upgraded so that they can get access to multi-gigabit connectivity.

It is not a gimmick or “slick offer” to have multi-gigabit connectivity, it is a matter of regional survival and more smaller communities understand this need for economic survival and sustainability more than some of the larger cities and regions.

BACK TO COTTAGE INDUSTRIES?

With the cost of 3D printers and 3D scanners coming down to the price of what a good laser printer cost 15 years ago, many are seeing that there is also a resurgence in small companies growing out of a household that may have great potential as more people use the technologies and become creative and innovative.

With 3D technology being affordable to small start-ups, the need to have access to broadband connectivity (anything 1Gbps or more) becomes a building amenity that better be available. This means that not just industrial parks will require high-speed capabilities. Residential areas that have available network capabilities will be hotbeds for small, entrepreneurial start-ups.

Large companies, like GE, are using this technology to build more durable parts that are cheaper as well as stronger. This short video provides a quick perspective http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8QKgY9O3kwE

If a city or region is concerned about regional economic development and sustainability, they better invest in their infrastructure to provide adequate bandwidth to attract maintain these large and small companies of next-generation manufacturing because 3D manufacturing is here and it is geometrically expanding.

Will Moore’s Law apply to 3D printing? Only time will tell. If it does, bandwidth demands will increase geometrically.

CARLINI-ISM : Adequate bandwidth will go from gigabit speeds to terabit speeds faster than you may think as 3D printing takes hold in all types of industries.

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

CABA NewsBrief Supplement

The Continental Automated Buildings Association (CABA) is an international not-for-profit industry association dedicated to the advancement of intelligent home and intelligent building technologies.

The organization is supported by an international membership of nearly 400 companies involved in the design, manufacture, installation and retailing of products relating to home automation and building automation. Public organizations, including utilities and government are also members.

CABA's mandate includes providing its members with networking and market research opportunities. CABA also encourages the development of industry standards and protocols, and leads cross-industry initiatives.

The organization was originally founded in 1988 as the Canadian Automated Buildings Association. The founding members included Bell Canada, Bell-Northern Research, Ontario Hydro, Hydro-Québec, Consumers Gas, Canadian Home Builders’ Association, the Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers Association of Canada, Industry Canada, Minto Developments Inc. and the National Research Council of Canada.

In 2006, CABA integrated the Internet Home Alliance, an association of technology companies committed to research and development within the intelligent home sector. The working group became CABA's Connected Home Research Council.

In 2010, CABA's collaborative research scope evolved and expanded into the CABA Research Program, which is directed by the CABA Board of Directors. The CABA Research Program's scope includes market research for both large building technologies and home systems. www.caba.org

Home Systems

Security researchers talk home-system hacking
Network World
Researchers, at an event in Las Vegas, talked up the vulnerabilities of home-security systems and detailed how they can be defeated, mostly through the Internet. While some identified specific product holes, presenters from Bishop Fox, a security consultancy firm, took a more holistic view of the issue. "We started looking at security sensors, going from the outside in, and we found a few implementation issues that we can take advantage of," Bishop Fox's Drew Porter said.

READ MORE

Interview on CABA's Monetization of Connected Homes
HomeToys
In an interview, CABA President & CEO Ron Zimmer talks about a new collaborative research study entitled "Monetization of the Connected Home." The purpose of the landmark study is to improve our understanding of consumer attitudes towards home automation, to explore business models currently in use by select industry participants and importantly, to identify areas of potential growth and opportunity. The following CABA members are confirmed sponsors of the study: ALARM.COM, American Honda Motor Co., Inc., Arrayent, fifthplay, Hydro One Networks Inc., Hydro-Québec, IBM, Lowe's Companies, Inc., Pella Corporation, Qualcomm Incorporated, Robert Bosch LLC, Samsung, Schneider Electric, SecurTek Monitoring Solutions and TELUS. To explore this unique opportunity go to: http://www.caba.org/research/projects/connected-home-monetization.

READ MORE

Homes get smarter with app technology
Reuters
How would you like to be able to control everything from the temperature of your oven, to your sound system and even ordering your favourite coffee — simply using your tablet computer? Home automation is becoming increasingly popular, and there are predictions the market will grow by more than 50 per cent by 2017.

READ MORE

Are smart homes a security threat to electric power utilities?
SmartGridNews
Smart grid security isn't just about control centers, substations and transmission and distribution networks. It's also about grid-connected devices you might not think about, like those used for home automation. Learn why utilities need to be absolutely sure those devices are secure too.

READ MORE

Holograms set to make an entrance in homes and offices
InAVate
Projected human sized floating images could walk into homes and offices if a Kickstarter campaign, launched by Provision Interactive Technologies, proves successful. Provision has marketed what it describes as "3D holographic technology" successfully in the retail space and is seeking funding to further the concept to create life-sized images for telepresence, gaming and entertainment applications.

READ MORE

Department of Energy overestimating impact of energy efficiency standards on appliance prices
American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy
A new report released by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy and the Appliance Standards Awareness Project finds that the U.S. Department of Energy has been overestimating the impact that energy efficiency standards for appliances and other products have on their price tags.

READ MORE

TRENDING ARTICLES

Missed last week's issue? See which articles your colleagues read most.

The top 10 software vendors connecting smart buildings to the smart grid (Greentech Media)
Microsoft releases operating system for house (MIT Technology Review)
A perfect match: Energy efficiency and facility management (By Archita Datta Majumdar)

Click here to see what else you missed.

Large Building Automation

AT&T focuses on connectivity, customer interaction in new store design
All Things D
AT&T is replicating some of the design features of its recently inaugurated flagship store in Chicago to enhance customer engagement and highlight next-generation devices by doing away with checkout counters and relying on tablets to complete purchases. The environmentally friendly store will also include large-screen connected video screens as well as specific stations focused on music, photography and fitness devices, among other things.

READ MORE

Bluetooth sensor gateway for smart building and Internet of Things under development
Intelligent Sensor Networks
Esensors is developing an Internet via Ethernet gateway for Bluetooth LE enabled sensors suitable for smart buildings, smart grid and Internet of Things. The gateway is based on a standard Linux platform with a Bluetooth wireless transceiver which processes and reformats sensor data as Internet/Ethernet accessible formats.

READ MORE

TELUS to build new high-rise tower in Calgary
Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat
TELUS, one of Canada's largest telecommunications companies, is set to begin construction on a 58-story tower in Calgary's downtown core. The TELUS Sky tower, designed by Bjarke Ingels Group, will incorporate office space, retail stores and 341 residential rental suites. TELUS is a CABA member.

READ MORE

CEN and CENELEC to coordinate European standards for smart cities
Metering.com
The European standards organizations CEN (European Committee for Standardization) and CENELEC (European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization) have set up a joint body to coordinate standardization activities in Europe on smart cities and communities.

READ MORE

Tyco completes acquisition of Exacq
SP&T News
Tyco Security Products announced that the company has completed the acquisition of Exacq Technologies, a developer of open architecture video management systems for security and surveillance applications for $150 million in cash.

READ MORE

Samsung launches next gen school in India
Systems Integration Asia
Samsung Electronics, in partnership with Modern School at Barakhamba in New Delhi, recently launched the "Samsung School," a joint initiative to improve student learning with easy-to-use immersive technology for the digital classroom. Samsung Electronics is a CABA Board member.

READ MORE

oBIX seeks public comment from CABA members
OASIS
Ludo Bertsch of Horizon Technologies, long time CABA member, reports that the latest version 1.1 specifications for open standard oBIX (open Building Information Exchange) are out for public review and comment. oBIX, developed by OASIS, enables mechanical and electrical control systems to communicate with enterprise applications such as human resources, finance, customer relationship management and manufacturing. Bertsch, a member of the Technical Committee and representative for CABA, encourages comments from not only of those working in the building automation industry, but also home automation. Feedback is welcome from everyone, including non-members of OASIS, with a deadline of Aug. 28, 2013.

READ MORE

Re-tooling commercial real estate curricula
On Purpose Magazine
Selling products and services into this 21st century integrated real estate environment requires an expertise in understanding multi-disciplinary skills and next-generation solutions. It is a multi-level sell when trying to promote new intelligent amenities for next-generation buildings, multi-venue entertainment centers, and intelligent business campuses.

READ MORE

FEATURED ARTICLE

TRENDING ARTICLE

MOST POPULAR ARTICLE

Planes, trains and automobiles
AutomatedBuildings.com
The building automation market is currently on a journey towards an ideal where the majority of buildings has an automated control system achieving energy savings. Whilst some journeys can be fast, efficient and stress free; others are not as simple. On this building automation journey, different parts of the world are having very different experiences.

read more

Building automation and controls market to grow $49.5 billion by 2018
SBWire
According to a new market research report "Global Building Automation & Controls Market (2013 – 2018): By Product (Lighting, Security & Access, HVAC, Entertainment, Outdoor, Elevator Controls, Building Management Systems), Application & Geography (Americas, Europe, APAC, and ROW)" published by MarketsandMarkets, the total building automation and controls market is expected to reach $49.5 billion by 2018 growing at a CAGR of 11.2 per cent from 2013 to 2018.

read more

CABA News

CABA to attend M2M Evolution Conference
CABA
CABA President & CEO Ron Zimmer will be actively involved in two key sessions at the forthcoming M2M Evolution Conference. This event will take place August 26-29 in Las Vegas. Hear the latest CABA research in these sessions: "M2M Managing Energy Solutions for Buildings" and "Digital Life: Security, Surveillance, Monitoring and Home Automation." If you are interested in discussing the connected home and intelligent buildings market, please email zimmer@caba.org to arrange a meeting.

READ MORE

CABA to attend SAP Intelligent Building Forum
CABA
CABA would like to meet you at the SAP Intelligent Building Forum on Aug. 14 in Newtown, Pennsylvania. Erin Mills, CABA Research Director and George Grimes, CABA Business Development Manager, will be attending the Forum and would like to learn more about your organization. If you would like to arrange a meeting with Erin Mills and/or George Grimes, please call 613.686.1814 x226 or email grimes@caba.org.

CABA's 'Life Cycle Costing Study' officially launched
CABA
Increasingly, end users in the intelligent buildings industry, such as architects, building owners, tenants, and builders are seeking ways to improve the cost efficiency of buildings and building-related systems and components. This landmark report offers organizations an exciting opportunity to collaborate and create one of the most timely research projects undertaken through the CABA Intelligent & Integrated Buildings Council. This goal of this research is to help educate end-users with strategies to improve their competitive edge. For more information on this important research project, go to: http://www.caba.org/research/projects/life-cycle-costing. The following CABA members are confirmed sponsors of the study: buildingSMART Alliance, Cadillac Fairview Corporation Limited, Consolidated Edison Co. of New York, Inc., CSA Group, Hydro One Networks, Hydro-Québec, Honeywell, International Facility Management Association (IFMA), Ingersoll Rand/Trane, Johnson Controls, Microsoft Corporation, PCN Technology, Inc., Philips, Public Works and Government Services Canada, Siemens Industry, Inc., The Siemon Company and WattStopper/Legrand. If you would like more information about the study or to become a sponsor, please contact: CABA's Business Development Manager, George Grimes at 613.686.1814 x226 or Grimes@CABA.org.

Research Spotlight

The Connected Consumer Challenge: Extending the electronics experience through services
CABA
Today's consumers expect to do more with their connected devices, demanding high performance and integrated device experiences. To provide this experience, electronics companies must expand their traditional focus on quality product manufacturing to include new capabilities for service excellence. This white paper looks at these new areas of service excellence, which include: open collaboration, customer insight, service operation, software development and flexible infrastructure. Read this report as it appears in CABA's Member Research Library, the world's largest collection of connected home and intelligent building research. CABA members have access to the Member Research Library as a membership benefit. The CABA Public Library is complimentary to all industry stakeholders and features over 500 reports.

Welcoming Our New Members

CABA acknowledges member support
CABA
The Board of Directors of the Continental Automated Buildings Association would like to thank and recognize the following renewing members: Complete Learning Solutions, Energent Incorporated and ON WORLD Inc. Your support of CABA is greatly appreciated.

Article by Jim Carlini - Re-Tooling Commercial Real Estate Curricula

Hear that huge shattering sound of multiple stories of glass crashing down to the ground? That is the shattering of decades’ worth of commercial real estate concepts that don’t work anymore.

The sad part is that many in the Commercial Real Estate (CRE) market need to tune into this deafening thunder. The status quo has been shattered and shattered again. As I said in an earlier article: (http://onpurposemagazine.com/2013/02/20/defining-21st-century-real-estate-2/ )

Selling products and services into this 21^st century integrated real estate environment requires an expertise in understanding multi-disciplinary skills and next-generation solutions. It is a multi-level sell when trying to promote new intelligent amenities for next-generation buildings, multi-venue entertainment centers, and intelligent business campuses.

New real estate concepts are not that new, they just have not been adopted as quickly as they should be by CRE professionals. Want to sell high-tech real estate into today’s sophisticated market? These are the people you need to sell to:

- The Building Owner (Property Owner)

- The Developer

- The Financier

- The Property Manager

- The Leasing Agent

- The Tenant(s)

- The Media (Yes, the media because they can help sell the whole package or they can kill it by not presenting its unique qualities because they don’t understand it.)

Look at the graduate school curriculum at most major universities in the United States. Real estate curricula are at best, based in the 1950s and at worst, in the 1850s. Is that an exaggeration? They don’t even have one course on Intelligent Buildings and Intelligent Buildings have been around for 30 years.

Except for some universities in Asia, the University of Reading in Great Britain and one in Dubai, most schools teaching real estate have not added degree programs or even single courses that should be out there to train today’s graduates on tomorrow’s building amenities.

Sometimes Intelligent Building strategies are mutually exclusive. Before real estate companies can set any strategy, everyone has to agree on what the organization’s direction is. How can you set a direction, if you really don’t know the advanced concepts, let alone the fundamental principles of intelligent real estate? How can you develop the right mix of buildings and amenities for a target market? How can you sell prospective corporate tenants?

Some schools might argue that they have a “Special Topics” course that include “emerging trends” but Intelligent Buildings should have had their own course by now, if not a whole section of courses dedicated to these new concepts.

WHAT SHOULD BE IN A CURRICULUM?

There already should be courses on:

- Intelligent Building Concepts (A general overview to get familiar with terminology as well as basic applied principles),

- Intelligent Infrastructure (the Platform for Commerce which focuses on supporting regional economic development), and

- Courses on next-generation Real Estate:

o Intelligent Business Campuses (IBCs) (the next-generation business campus, industrial park or technical campus. IIP is the acronym used in Asia for an IBC.)

o Intelligent Infrastructure (II) (supportive infrastructure like power grids and broadband connectivity)

o Intelligent Retail/ Entertainment/ Convention Center complexes (IRECs) (Study of multi-venue campuses of retail stores, entertainment/restaurant centers and convention and/or sports arena built to provide new Smartphone applications that cross-market the products and services of those businesses within the “umbrella” of the DAS (Distributed Antennae System) wireless network.)

The problem is that different spheres of disciplines are starting to intersect and overlap with each other. The dynamics of most schools is to teach a single discipline and a single focus. Today, four diverse spheres are intersecting at critical junctures, curricula need courses that discuss the combined concepts of these new converged principles and how they impact the market.

The more graduates who have a grasp of the new multi-disciplinary focus, the more effective their ongoing leadership and team management will become as the real estate industry evolves.

CARLINI-ISM: There are no experts in this emerging industry. The best you can be is a good student – always learning.

Cisco will cut 4,000 jobs, citing a inadequate & disconnected economic climate

There is absolutely no way to put a happy face on four thousand families losing a wage earner. The layoffs, which account for 5 percent of the company's workforce, will begin in 2014.

Shares of Cisco plunged 10 percent in after-hours trading. The stock had initially slipped by 4 percent after Cisco released its financial results for its fiscal fourth quarter.

In the prior two quarters, Chambers had said he was cautiously optimistic and that the economic environment was "slow but steady." He struck a decidedly more sedate tone on Wednesday's conference call with Wall Street analysts, saying the global economic environment has been "challenging and inconsistent."

Chambers explained he's "real pleased" with Cisco's growth, but "it's just not growing as fast as we need." The company needs to work more quickly and focus on growth areas, he said.

Overall, Cisco earned $2.8 billion on sales of $12.4 billion for its fiscal fourth quarter -- and each figure was just a hair above Wall Street expectations. In-line results weren't quite enough to please investors who have become accustomed to Cisco trouncing analysts' forecasts.

Cisco's focus on hot Internet trends like video, wireless and big data has helped propel the company's earnings to new heights lately. Shares are up 34 percent so far this year.

The company also reported it has an incredible $50.6 billion in cash, up more than $3 billion from the previous quarter. Cisco and other big tech companies including Appl and Microsof have been amassing large cash hoards during the past few years.

Cisco touches all parts of the networking process, and the company's success is largely tied to sentiment about the world's economy. Many large businesses and government agencies are Cisco customers, and they're unlikely to buy up networking equipment when they're worried about the economic situation.

Meanwhile, Cisco has worked to evolve past its history as the king of switchers and routers, because the Internet networking world is changing. Though those core businesses have continued to comprise half of the company's revenue, switches and routers have been declining.

Concert Technologies Launches Data Center Support Services Program

DULLES, VA, JULY 23, 2013 – Concert Technologies today announced its data center support services program to provide cabling, management, support and maintenance services for data centers on a nationwide and international scale. This program supports data centers of any size with a single, trusted partner available 24/7 providing a variety of cabling and physical infrastructure services whether at single location or multiple locations spread across the globe.

The data center program launch coincides with the release of a video produced by Concert Technologies to inform its data center customers of the full suite of physical infrastructure and cabling services available to them. The video can be viewed on YouTube at http://youtu.be/l7iz_wfFh3s.

The video reviews the following data center services:

· Installation of data center equipment and physical infrastructure cabling

· Data center consolidations or moves

· Data center physical infrastructure clean-up

· Data center physical infrastructure management including equipment patching, telecom circuit testing, smart hands assistance with server access and equipment configurations, and verification and documentation of existing conditions

“Our data center support services program was launched as a result of the high demand from our customers to provide a full suite of data center services for nationwide and global rollouts,” said Dennis Mazaris, President and CEO of Concert Technologies. “Our team of skilled local resources is available 24/7 to support the planning and management of even the most demanding of data center requirements.”

In addition to the video, Concert Technologies has launched a webpage dedicated to its data center support services program. For more information about this program, visit http://www.concerttech.com/Data-Center-Support-Services.htm.

Influencing the high customer demand for data center services is the expansion of existing data center facilities to keep up with the rapidly growing industry. Cabling Installation & Maintenance Magazine reports a forecasted Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7.61 percent from 2012-2016 for the data center construction market in the U.S.

About Concert Technologies

Concert Technologies, founded in 1995, is a privately-held technology rollout company based in Dulles, VA. It is the leader in the accelerated delivery of nationwide and global technology rollouts for federal government, commercial and international organizations. Utilizing Concert’s unique system of methodologies, it quickly implements, installs and manages multi-site, multi-service, technology infrastructure projects utilizing local authorized partners. Visit Concert Technologies online: www.concerttech.com

PON and Cable Broadband Equipment Revenue Poised for Annual Growth through 2017

Five-Year Forecast Also Predicts Growth for VDSL

REDWOOD CITY, Calif. – August 5, 2013 – Dell’Oro Group, the trusted source for market information about the networking and telecommunications industries, predicts annual revenue growth for PON and Cable equipment in its most recent Access Five-Year Forecast report. Upgrades will be the driving force for equipment demand through at 2017 as both Cable and Telecom operators look to increase the bandwidth capabilities of their networks to handle increasing internet traffic, enable new revenue-generating services, and stay competitive with one another.

“For PON, although we expect China to continue to dominate the market through much of our forecast horizon, we are forecasting Chinese growth to moderate, resulting in single-digit PON revenue growth the next five years versus the previous double-digit growth,” said Steve Nozik, Principal Analyst of Access research at Dell’Oro Group. “For CMTS, the dynamics underlying this market remain strong, despite a weak 2012, and we forecast growth to resume in 2013 and continue through our forecast horizon. For DSL, despite raising our VDSL forecast due to a more optimistic scenario for VDSL vectoring, we still expect total DSL revenues to decline albeit at a slower pace than over the past several years, with VDSL growth only partially offsetting rapidly declining ADSL sales,” added Nozik.

About the Report

The Dell’Oro Group 5-Year Forecast Report provides a complete overview of the broadband access industry, with tables covering manufacturers’ revenue, average selling prices, and port/unit shipments for Cable, DSL, and PON equipment. Network infrastructure equipment includes Cable Modem Termination Systems (CMTS), Digital Subscriber Line Access Multiplexers ([DSLAMs] by technology ADSL, ADSL2+, G.SHDSL, VDSL), and PON Optical Line Terminals (OLTs). Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) technology reflects Voice-over-IP (VoIP) or data-only. To purchase this report, call Julie Learmond-Criqui +1.650.622.9400 x244 or email Julie@DellOro.com.

About Dell’Oro Group

As the trusted source for market information about the networking and telecommunications industries, Dell’Oro Group provides in-depth, objective research and analysis that enable component manufacturers, equipment vendors, and investment firms to make fact-based, strategic decisions. For more information, contact Dell’Oro Group at +1.650.622.9400 or visit www.DellOro.com.

GovSec, TREXPO and CPM East 2013 Attendance Increased by 7%; Exhibitors Increased by 14%

WASHINGTON, DC -- July 8, 2013

The leading government and homeland security event, GovSec, featuring TREXPO and held in conjunction with CPM East, attracted 3,514 attendees and 175 exhibitors for its 12th year.

“GovSec along with CPM East was successful in all respects this year. Despite the challenges of sequestration, attendance increased an additional 7% after an increase of more than 20% in 2012. The event featured 175 exhibitors, an increase of 14%, with the expo floor growing by 19%. This year’s results reinforces GovSec as the leading event for government security products, education and networking,” said Don Berey, Senior Event Director for GovSec and CPM East.

Among the highlights of the collocated events were addresses by:

General Stanley McChrystal, a four-star general and former commander of U.S. and international forces in Afghanistan and the former leader of Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), which oversees the military’s most sensitive forces.
Joe Theismann, entrepreneur and former star quarterback for the Washington Redskins. Currently, Theismann works for the NFL Network as an analyst, broadcasting the Thursday Night NFL games. He is also a co-host for the NFL Network show Playbook.
Dave Grossman, Lt. Colonel, U.S. Army (ret.), an internationally recognized scholar, author, soldier, and speaker who is one of the world's foremost experts in the field of human aggression and the roots of violence and violent crime.

There were also numerous on-the-floor demonstrations featuring K9s, knife tactics and active shooter response training.

“The continued growth in both attendance and exhibitors showcases the importance of the event to all aspects of the marketplace,” said Kevin O’Grady, President of the Security, Safety, and Health Group of 1105 Media.

GovSec, TREXPO and CPM East featured a comprehensive conference and exhibition, which included industry-leading exhibitors that demonstrated a wide variety of products for first responders and government security professionals from agencies, departments, and organizations from the federal, state and local level.

“GovSec 2013 was my first experience in DC as well as at the federal security level. It was a very eye-opening experience, as well as a comforting one. Up until this point, I hadn't really considered the scope of what it means to be involved in National Security....seeing it in real life in front of you really helps put it into perspective. I truly appreciate attending GovSec for helping me to increase my contacts, job prospects and overall security sector viewpoint.” (2013 Attendee)

“This show over the last 6 years....has proven to be exceptional in bringing in all the Government Agencies we deal with. I will continue to attend this Expo and the locale is perfect.” (2013 Exhibitor)

GovSec, TREXPO and CPM East will be held May 12-14, 2014. Law Enforcement Appreciation Day will be on May 14, the day prior to Peace Officers Memorial Day in Washington D.C.

About GovSec featuring TREXPO
GovSec provides the equipment, tools and strategies needed by security professionals and first responders to proactively prepare for, prevent and respond to emerging and ongoing threats to their communities, companies, agencies and the homeland. TREXPO -- the definitive event for tactical training, equipment, technology, and services for law enforcement, military, security, and federal agencies -- joined GovSec in 2013 and further empowers law enforcement to fulfill their role as the first line of defense against threats to our homeland and the communities they serve.

About CPM East
CPM East provides the private and public sectors with the strategies and products they need for disaster mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery. CPM East combines exhibits, education and peer-to-peer networking to provide the knowledge to recover from natural disasters, accidents or intentional acts in the minimum amount of time, with minimum disruption and at minimum cost. Together with GovSec, CPM East provides a unique forum for security and business continuity /disaster recovery professionals, as well as first responders to become versed in the common challenges and solutions arising during times of natural or man-made disasters.

About the Security, Safety, and Health Group
GovSec, TREXPO and CPM East are members of the Security, Safety, and Health Group -- a division of 1105 Media, Inc. In addition to premier industry events such as GovSec and CPM, the group includes the media brands Security Products, Occupational Health & Safety, and Home Medical Equipment, as well as ancillary products related to these brands. It is an industry leader in every category it includes.

About 1105 Media
1105 Media is a leading provider of integrated information and media in targeted B-to-B markets, including specialized sectors of the information technology community; industrial health, safety and compliance; security; environmental protection; and home health care. 1105’s offerings span print and online magazines, journals and newsletters; seminars, conferences and trade shows; training courseware; and Web-based services. 1105 Media is based in Chatsworth, Calif., with offices throughout the United States. Visit 1105media.com.

For information on exhibiting at GovSec, TREXPO, or CPM East 2014, please contact:

Kharry Wolinsky - East
kwolinsky@1105media.com or 703-876-5069

Nancy Calabrese - Midwest, West
ncalabrese@1105media.com or 702-228-3293

Hendrix Wire & Cable Announces Kitting Solution For Distribution Systems

Kitting Cable Components Saves Space & Time

Milford, NH- Hendrix Wire & Cable, a premier provider of high quality overhead and underground power distribution products, announces the offering of a Kitting Solution for Spacer Cable Systems.

Hendrix designs and manufactures complete Spacer Cable Systems including cable, hardware, spacers, and other accessory products. A complete stock of component parts is maintained at the factory. Using Hendrix’s Kitting Solution, components necessary to complete the Spacer Cable System can be purchased together, assembled at the Hendrix manufacturing plant, and then shipped directly to a job site or a temporary staging area. Since cables are cut to length for the job, scrap and installation time can both be reduced. There are no short lengths left on the reels at the end of the job, less set ups on the reel trailers, and less splicing. In addition, warehousing costs can be eliminated along with the time to kit the material at the utilities warehouse.

For more information or to set up a Kitting Solution with Hendrix Wire & Cable, please visit www.hendrix-wc.com or contact overhead@hendrix-wc.com.

About Hendrix Aerial Cable & Systems

Aerial Cable & Systems is one of four operating divisions of Hendrix Wire & Cable, a provider of high-quality overhead and underground power distribution products located in Milford, NH. The division's benchmark product, Spacer Cable, formed the foundation of the company in 1951, solving local utilities' reliability problems, reducing weather-related outages, and providing options for areas difficult to engineer with standard bare wire systems. Today, Hendrix Spacer Cable is available at 15kV through 69 kV.

ISO 9001-certified Hendrix Wire & Cable, Inc. is a member company of The Marmon Group, an international association of more than 125 business units that operate independently within diverse business sectors. Member companies have collective revenues of $7 billion. The Marmon Group is owned by Berkshire Hathaway Inc. More information about the company is available at www.hendrix-wc.com

HENDRIX OFFERS DUAL BLOCKÔ FOR UNDERGROUND CABLE

Prevents water from entering cable core

Milford, NH - Hendrix/Kerite Cable (Marmon Utility, LLC.), a premier provider of high-quality underground power distribution products, announces its DUAL BLOCKÔ product. This offering provides a dual water blocking capability on Hendrix primary, underground cable.

Water is one of the enemies of long-life in primary cable, as water entering the cable core can lead to premature failure. Hendrix DUAL BLOCKÔ helps prevent this from occurring. First, a fill compound is continuously applied into the conductor interstices. This prevents longitudinal water migration. Second, a water-swellable powder is applied under the polyethylene jacket. This prevents water from migrating along the neutral wires, under the jacket. Taken together, these two applications provide a reliable barrier that prevents water from entering the cable core.

DUAL BLOCKÔ is an option for all stranded conductor, Hendrix cables.

For further information, please contact your local Marmon Utility LLC representative or visit www.hendrix-wc.com

ICC New Front Access Zero U Patch Panels

Fullerton, California - ICC is introducing new Front Access Zero U Patch Panels. Available in CAT 6 and CAT 5e; Front Access Patch Panels have been tested to exceed TIA performance standards. With a low-profile design sitting at only 1.17” height, they’re perfect for tight spaces. Panels can be mounted on a backboard with mounting screws provided. They can also be mounted on TIA rack vertically, or even over existing rack panels and not take up any additional rack space. A removable cover protects and routes terminated cables from the left and right. Front termination with true 110 IDCs allow convenient moves, add-ons and changes. Colored diagrams provide wiring instructions for both the 568-A and B wiring. Each panel has 12 ports, ideal for a small business installation or for a quick add-on to an existing network. Each jack has contacts coated with 50 micro-inch gold for corrosion resistance and high speed performance, the best in the industry.

ICC’s Front Access Patch Panels are available through a nationwide network of ICC Elite Preferred DistributorsTM. To locate a distributor near you, visit www.icc.com/distributor or call ICC at 888-ASK-4ICC (275-4422).

About ICC

ICC is a leading manufacturer of residential and commercial structured cabling products governed by strict ISO 9001:2008 standards. With 29 years of innovation, ICC products have established a reputation of premium quality, proven performance and competitive prices supporting voice, data, audio, video and fiber optic connectivity. For more information, visit ICC’s website at www.icc.com

IDEAL Tuff-Rod™ Poles Reduce Time & Hassle of Running Cables In Hard To Access Spaces

SYCAMORE, IL, AUGUST 7, 2013 -- Tuff-Rod™ push/pull poles from IDEAL simplify the task of running cables above ceilings, down walls, under raised floors, or through hard to access voids and cavities. Flexible yet strong, the poles can be used with a variety of cable and wire types, including speaker and telephone wire, twisted pair data cables, fiber, thermostat, coax and general electrical cables to dramatically reduce time on the job.

Made of non-conductive fiberglass rods to protect the installer from electrical shock, IDEAL Tuff-Rods are designed to be threaded together to achieve a maximum length of thirty feet, allowing the installer to create custom rods for longer cable runs.

Three attachment-ends extend the rod's versatility. The J Hook attachment aids in re-positioning wires and re-directing cables, while the Bullet tip is perfect for pushing the rods through wall cavities, under floorboards and similar tight spaces. The Wisp head is specifically designed for working over the top of suspended ceilings where the large head enables the rod to be pushed over the grid work ridges without getting stuck.

In addition to standard white and blue, a pale green "glow in the dark" version is available for contractors working in attics, basements and other dim lit areas. Tuff-Rod repair kits can also be purchased, complete with replacement hardware and quick-drying epoxy for fast, convenient, in-the-field repairs.

For more information, visit www.idealindustries.com or call 800.435.0705.

Intertek Awarded PTCRB Accreditation

Intertek is now an accredited testing laboratory for all major CDMA, GSM, and LTE certification schemes.

Lexington, KY -- Intertek, the leading quality solutions provider to industries worldwide, announces its PTCRB Accreditation, issued June 13, 2013. With this approval added to the company’s global accreditation portfolio, Intertek fulfills all qualifications to conduct testing under any industry certification scheme for all 2G, 3G, and 4G wireless technologies, providing global device manufacturers with a more efficient path to certify their products through the PTCRB Certification Program.

Throughout its network, Intertek’s infrastructure supports all major carrier networks including AT&T, T-Mobile, NTT DOCOMO, Orange, Telefónica, and Vodafone. As an approved testing facility for all technologies covered under the PTCRB scope, which includes testing per E-UTRA (LTE) 3GPP standards, Intertek offers manufacturers the opportunity to test virtually any device type – mobile phones, modules, M2M devices, wireless routers, hotspots, tablets, laptops, infrastructure equipment, apps, and software – with Intertek, regardless of technology or certification body.

“The ongoing investment in our network of accredited testing facilities enables us to support the industry’s leading carriers and device manufacturers as they bring new technologies to market,” says Darrell Lehman, Sr. VP of Intertek’s Wireless Global Business Line. “The accreditation from PTCRB comes on the heels of the recent ISO 17025 accreditation at our San Diego test site, and the launch of Intertek’s new OTA testing capabilities in Taipei, Taiwan. We are taking every available opportunity to provide our clients with the services needed to fulfill global certification requirements.”

Intertek is a longtime provider of CDMA services and carrier testing accepted by carriers around the world, such as Verizon Wireless, Sprint, Metro PCS, Cricket, US Cellular, KDDI, and others. And while its PTCRB accreditation is creating new opportunities for Intertek clients to launch mobile devices on any carrier network, Intertek has provided LTE services as an approved GCF testing lab since the technology emerged in 2010.

Intertek has been a leader in telecom and wireless technology for more than 50 years and recognized as a Telecommunication Certification Body (TCB) since the program’s inception in 2000. Intertek serves device manufacturers and carriers by providing custom testing for Acoustics, RF Performance, Signalling Conformance, Feature Testing, Field Interoperability, Radiated Performance, FCC/IC/EU/ETSI, Accessories, Batteries, and RF Exposure (SAR).

The PTCRB (PCS Type Certification Review Board) was established in 1997 to certify GSM devices such as mobile phones, modules, and M2M devices.

Intertek is now an accredited testing laboratory for all major CDMA, GSM, and LTE certification schemes with the PTCRB Accreditation

The PTCRB (PCS Type Certification Review Board) was established in 1997 to certify GSM devices such as mobile phones, modules, and M2M devices.

Klein Tools Doubles Its Pledged Donation to Operation Homefront

July 30, 2013 (Chicago, Ill.) – Today Operation Homefront (http://www.operationhomefront.net) accepted a generous $50,000 donation from Klein Tools (http://www.kleintools.com) to support ongoing efforts to provide emergency financial aid and other assistance to military members and their families.

Klein Tools, a leading U.S. hand tool manufacturer, originally pledged to donate $25,000 to Operation Homefront this year in conjunction with the company’s Limited Edition Camouflage Pliers Promotion. In the promotion, Klein Tools transformed the look of its most popular 2000 Series Side-Cutting Pliers with an exclusive plastic-dipped camouflage handle design and a distinct black-oxide plier head with a special laser-etched “Support Our Troops” logo. The Klein promotion was such a success that it decided to double the donation.

“Our camo pliers promotion provided us an opportunity to give back to the service men and women who have sacrificed so much,” said Megan Klein, associate marketing manager of Klein Tools. “We hope this also raised awareness of all the different ways Operation Homefront helps our military and their families.”

“We were amazed that Klein Tools decided to double their contribution,” said James Michael, executive director of Operation Homefront of Illinois. “The $50,000 donation will go a long way to provide financial or other necessary assistance to military families in these challenging economic times.”

A national nonprofit, Operation Homefront leads more than 4,500 volunteers with nationwide presence who provide emergency and other financial assistance to the families of service members and wounded warriors. Operation Homefront has met more than 750,000 needs of military families since its inception in 2002. A four-star rated charity by watchdog Charity Navigator, nationally, 95 percent of total revenue donated to Operation Homefront goes directly to programs that provide support to our military families. For more information, go to www.OperationHomefront.net.

Since 1857 Klein Tools, a family-owned and operated company, has been designing, developing and manufacturing premium-quality, professional-grade hand tools. Klein Tools are manufactured in seven plants throughout the United States and are the number one choice among professional electricians and other tradespeople. For more information, visit www.kleintools.com.

MaxCell - Fabric Mesh Innerduct Inside the Data Center?

Since the inception of fabric mesh innerduct in 1999, it has largely been considered an outside plant (OSP) type product. But, with today’s growing bandwidth requirements in data centers, many designer engineers and data center managers need to think and plan for tomorrow’s requirements today. That is achieved by maximizing their EMT conduit from the start by installing multiple packs of fabric mesh innerduct on new builds, removing ridged HDPE innerducts and replacing it with fabric mesh innerduct, or by installing a fabric mesh innerduct in occupied conduits with bare cables.

MaxCell is the only flexible fabric innerduct system designed specifically for the network construction industry.

Case study one- congested conduit:

A leading data center provider that is leasing multiple floors at a collocation site in a major market is facing congestion in their backbone conduits. They need to expand in order to meet existing and new customer requirements. Currently, the data center provider has multiple backbone conduit runs with the following scenario; three 1.25 inch ridged HDPE innerducts in a four inch EMT conduit which provides three raceways, most of which have one or two live cables installed in the ridged innerduct. The DC provider has three options; the first is adding new four inch EMT conduits by means of new construction, which would be extremely challenging, costly and time consuming. The second option would be to install a cable into the last ridged innerduct and kick this problem down the road. Option three would be to remove unoccupied ridged innerducts while pulling one or two packs of fabric mesh innerduct. This not only provides a dedicated raceway now, but also two to five future races ways depending on how many packs were to be installed.

Case study two-new build:

A leading customer relationship management firm is expanding multiple data centers due to rapid growth. The CRM firm is leasing multiple rooms in a collocation site and provided with two four inch conduits. The challenge is how to meet today’s requirements of two fiber cables and one copper cable, while also planning for tomorrow’s growth. Traditionally, three 1.25 inch ridged innerducts would be installed completely filling the first of the two four inch conduits, thus leaving only three future raceways in the second four inch conduit for future growth. By using fabric mesh innerduct, this leading CRM firm can triple their cable capacity in the first four inch conduit and leave the second for future use. This is accomplished by installing three packs of three cell fabric mesh innerduct in one of the four inch conduits. The fabric mesh innerduct solution provides the CRM firm with nine raceways in one of the four inch conduits with each raceway accommodating a one inch outer diameter size cable.

Fabric mesh innerduct takes up very little space within the EMT conduit until the media of choice is placed within. This affords designers and data center managers the flexibility to quickly change their conduit capacity and/or add cables in a much more timely fashion, all while keeping their labor in check. In fact, according to the 2011 Manual of Labor Units report, published by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), when installing a common size fabric mesh innerduct under normal circumstances the installation takes 75 per cent less time when compared to ridged innerduct.

Fabric mesh innerduct is available in multiple sizes and cell configurations to meet various conduit and cable sizes. Each pack of fabric mesh innerduct comes with pre-installed pull tapes in each cell. It is available in detectable, self supporting, plenum and riser rated. Fabric mesh innerduct is shipped on smaller reels compared to that of ridged HDPE reels thus allowing for smaller work space requirements and less techs needed during installation.

About MaxCell

With 10 years of industry leading technology, MaxCell is one of the fastest growing products in the network construction industry. RUS accepted and installed by the largest global telecommunications companies, cable MSOs, and Fortune 500 companies, MaxCell has become the standard for allowing companies to maximize their conduit space while reducing total system cost.

MaxCell is the only flexible fabric innerduct system designed specifically for the network construction industry.

The unique fabric construction allows MaxCell to conform to the shape of cables placed within, greatly reducing the wasted space associated with rigid innerduct.

Today’s network owners and builders use MaxCell to increase their cable density by as much as 300%. Faced with the challenge of deploying new infrastructure while minimizing investment costs, using MaxCell will:

Reduce the number of conduits required for new network construction
Minimize the need for additional conduit in overlay applications
Enable incremental deployment to match system requirements

Over 200 million feet of MaxCell innerduct have been successfully installed around the globe in a variety of applications including:

Cable TV
Telecom
Wireless Backhaul
Power/Utilities
Municipalities
University, Corporate, and Hospital campuses
Military and Government installations

http://www.maxcellinnerduct.com/default.aspx?lang=eng&

McCormick’s Online Training Sessions Offer Customized Education Choices

Estimating is the most important thing a contractor does – it is the operations backbone, determining which projects a company bids, which ones it gets to complete, and the potential profit in each job won.

That’s why McCormick Systems – a leading vendor of estimating systems for electrical, mechanical, T&D, and automated building systems contractors – is focused on helping its customers, and has been since its 1979 founding.

In 2013, the company has added something new: Online Training. McCormick’s skilled trainers create sessions customized to each customer’s specific needs – and teach them via online connections. A customer company can have a single session or opt for several, (sessions are typically two hours long) – and can have from one to ten attendees on its end.

“We’ve had our own product database for many years, and we needed to update it – to take advantage of real-time pricing options offered by Trade Service and distributors,” said Mike Huskey, chief estimator for Tri-City Electric (Davenport, IA).

“We needed some help from McCormick in learning how to accomplish this. We told them what we needed. They taught two of us – online – in 3 two-hour sessions.”

McCormick’s other educational offerings include

§ Standard and Advanced courses (taught in AZ and MD);

§ By-Hand Estimating courses (the basics, taught with pencil and paper);

§ customized “On-Site” training (trainers travel to a customer facility);

§ videos on YouTube.com (McCormick’s channel is: http://www.youtube.com/McCormickSystemsInc); and

§ Written tutorials included in the materials sent to customers.

“We will maintain our scheduled training classes, as we always have.” explained Todd McCormick, company president. “Now, if a given contractor needs help with a specific facet of our system, they can get it – without needing to send someone our way, and avoiding the expense of sending our trainer on the road. We can orient the training to the customer’s precise needs and deliver it quickly.”

About McCormick Systems

Privately owned McCormick Systems (Chandler, AZ) is the nation’s leader in software used for electrical and ABS estimating and project management. The company’s products enable contractors to quickly produce consistent, profitable estimates for electrical and voice-data-video work, and more.

More information: www.mccormicksys.com or 800-444-4890.

tED Magazine Names 2013 Best of the Best Marketing Award Winners
Van Meter, Legrand Take Top Honors with “Best Overall” Distinctio

ST. LOUIS … tED, the official publication of the National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED), has honored 55 of the electrical industry’s finest marketing programs in its 2013 Best of the Best Marketing Awards Competition.

Best of the Best Judges Katrina Olson and Shad Thomas presented the awards at a special ceremony during NAED’s 2013 AdVenture Marketing Conference on Aug. 6.

For more than four decades, tED magazine has recognized the electrical industry’s top marketing initiatives with its Best of the Best Competition. This year’s awards honored electrical distributors and suppliers for stellar campaigns launched in 2012.

Every year, the publication selects one distributor and one supplier to represent the overall best marketing practices for the industry. This year’s “Best Overall” winners were:

• Van Meter, Inc. – Based in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, this distributor earned an individual Best of the Best award in the Brand Awareness Category for “It’s all About Building Relationships.”

• Legrand – This international supplier earned individual Best of the Best awards in three categories: Integrated Promotional Campaign (“Healthcare Campaign)”, Literature/Selling Tool (“Is Your Building RetroFIT?”), and Brand Awareness (“Designed for You”).

In addition, the following companies received the Best of the Best category awards. See all the winning campaigns in the August issue of tED.

BRAND AWARENESS
• Distributor $25 million - $200 million – Alameda Electrical Distributors, “New Look. Same Great Service”
• Distributor over $200 million – Van Meter Inc., “It’s All About Building Relationships”
• Supplier over $250 million – Legrand/Pass & Seymour, “Designed for You”

CREATIVE DISPLAY
• Distributor under $25 million – Vaughan Electrical Supply, “The Experience Centre”
• Distributor $25 million - $200 million – Warshauer Electric Supply, “Lighting Design Center”
• Distributor over $200 million – Summit Electric Supply, “Scan Code and Download!”
• Supplier under $250 million – RAB Lighting, “SLIM Merchandising Display”
• Supplier over $250 million – Southwire, “SIMpull WireBARREL Wall Display”

DIGITAL/SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN
• Distributor $25 million - $200 million – Swift Electrical Supply, “Social Media Campaign 2012”
• Distributor over $200 million – Dakota Supply Group, “Contractor Portal – Work Order Generator”
• Supplier under $250 million – Madison Electric Products, “Measurable Results with Social Media”
• Supplier over $250 million – Lutron Electronics, “Social Media Presence”

DIRECT PROMOTION
• Distributor $25 million - $200 million – Needham Electric Supply, “Farm Light”
• Distributor over $200 million – Summit Electric Supply, “Texpansion!”
• Supplier under $250 million – Service Wire, “2012 Direct Mail Campaign”
• Supplier over $250 million – Philips Lighting, “SMART Promotions”

EVENT
• Distributor under $25 million – C.N. Robinson Lighting Supply, “Don’t Miss the Bus!”
• Distributor $25 million - $200 million – Schaedler Yesco, “Expo 2012”
• Distributor over $200 million – Irby, “Wire Pulling Rodeo”
• Supplier under $250 million – Madison Electric Products, “Innovation Roundtable”
• Supplier over $250 million – Lutron Electronics, “Press Conference and Event”

INTEGRATED PROMOTIONAL CAMPAIGN
• Distributor under $25 million – C.N. Robinson Lighting Supply, “Don’t Miss the Bus!”
• Distributor $25 million - $200 million – Western Extralite, “Leading Edge LEDs Now!”
• Distributor over $200 – CapitalTristate Electrical Distributor, “Energy Saving Week”
• Supplier under $250 million – Universal Lighting Technologies, “EVERLINE LED Campaign”
• Supplier over $250 million – Legrand, “Healthcare Campaign”

LITERATURE/SELLING TOOL
• Distributor under $25 million – Atlantic Electric Supply, “A Renewed Dedication”
• Distributor $25 million - $200 million – Alameda Electrical Distributors, “Electrical Supply that Powers Your Bottom Line”
• Distributor over $200 million – Crescent Electric Supply, “Vertical Market Sell Sheets”
• Supplier under $250 million – Hubbell Outdoor Lighting, “LED Products Guide”
• Supplier over $250 million – Legrand, “Is Your Building RetroFIT?” (TIE)
• Supplier over $250 million – Philips Lighting, “Margin Mix Improvement Tool” (TIE)

PRINT AD – CAMPAIGN
• Supplier under $250 million – Columbia Lighting (Hubbell Lighting), “LED Ads”
• Supplier over $250 million – Southwire, “Social Media Campaign”

PRINT AD – SINGLE
• Distributor over $200 million – Dakota Supply Group, “Joining Forces”
• Supplier under $250 million – Alera Lighting (Hubbell Lighting), “Daylight Harvesting Just Got Easier”
• Supplier over $250 million – Philips Lighting, “Dimmable LED PAR Lamp Ad”

PRODUCT LAUNCH
• Distributor over $200 million – Cooper Electric Supply, “Lutron Sensors”
• Supplier under $250 million – Universal Lighting Technologies, “EVERLINE LED”
• Supplier over $250 million – Leviton, “Zipline”

PUBLIC RELATIONS/COMMUNITY OUTREACH
• Distributor over $200 million – NorthEast Electrical Distributors, “Project Green Lights 2012” (TIE)
• Distributor over $200 million – CapitalTristate Electrical Distributor, “Wounded Warrior Project” (TIE)
• Supplier over $250 million – GE Lighting, “Women in STEM – Preparing for the Future with Confidence”

PUBLIC RELATIONS/CORPORATE
• Distributor over $200 million – Dakota Supply Group, “Married to the Brand”
• Supplier under $250 million – Federal Signal, “Revealing Americans’ Awareness and Preparedness Surrounding Emergency Situations”
• Supplier over $250 million – Fluke, “2012 Press Summit”

PUBLICATION
• Distributor $25 million - $200 million – Shealy Electrical Wholesalers, “The Circuit”
• Supplier over $250 million – CapitalTristate Electrical Distributor, “CapitalTristateNow Magazine”

WEBSITE
• Distributor $25 million - $200 million – Buckles-Smith, “buckles-smith.com Redesign”
• Distributor over $200 million – CapitalTristate Electrical Distributor, “CapitalTristateAdvantage.com”
• Supplier under $250 million – EverLast Lighting, “EverLast Website 2.0”
• Supplier over $250 million – OSRAM Sylvania, “www.sylvania.com Redesign”

JUDGES’ CHOICE
• Distributor – Summit Electric Supply, “Conduit Fill Tracker Mobile App”
• Supplier– Progress Lighting, “Mobile App”

BEST PRESENTATION (presented to a winner with an exceptionally well-prepared entry)
• Summit Electric Supply (all entries)

Details on tED’s 2014 Best of the Best contest will be released in November. For additional contest information, contact tED Editor Misty Byers at 314-812-5316 or mbyers@naed.org.

Circulated to more than 27,000 readers throughout the electrical distribution industry, the award-winning tED magazine serves as the industry’s primary source for trends, best practices, and news happening throughout the electrical supply chain. In addition to its monthly print edition, tED produces up-to-the minute news through tEDmag.com, four weekly e-newsletters, and its LinkedIn, Facebook, and Twitter channels.

The NAED is the trade association for the $70+ billion electrical distribution industry. Through networking, education, research, and benchmarking, NAED helps electrical distributors increase profitability and improve the channel. NAED’s membership operates in approximately 4,400 locations internationally.

Southwire Introduces Electrician’s Tools that are More Durable, Perform Better and Enhance the Total Solutions for Professional Contractors

New Line of Tools Adds to Current Line of Maxis® Contractor Equipment,

New Vice President Oversees Southwire Tools & Accessories

CARROLLTON, Ga., July 23, 2013 – To enhance its robust line of innovative wire and cable products and solutions, Southwire has introduced Southwire™ Electrician’s Tools. This comprehensive line of hand tools, testers and meters is manufactured with top-quality materials to ensure superior performance and durability throughout the lifecycle of the tool. The tools include added features to help enhance user productivity and are backed by strong warranties.

The impressive suite of tool products is a natural extension of Southwire’s Maxis® Contractor Equipment line, which Southwire acquired in 2009. The new unit will be led by Brandon Moss, who was recently named vice president of Southwire’s Tools & Accessories. Moss helped spearhead the rigorous product research and testing Southwire conducted while developing the new tools.

“As a leader in the wire and cable industry, we know contractors and understand the wants and needs they face daily on the jobsite,” Moss said. “Adding Electrician’s Tools completes the product portfolio. We now offer solutions on both ends of the spectrum, from contractor equipment to electrician’s tools and a whole range of other categories in between.”

Southwire’s Electrician’s Tools will be available in retail outlets and electrical wholesale and tools supply houses nationwide, allowing wide availability for professional contractors. The collection consists of a full line of professional grade hand tools that includes pliers, strippers, and screw drivers, as well as a wide array of electrical meters and testers.

The Electrician’s Tools line marks the latest innovation for Southwire, long known as a company with a powerful brand in the wire and cable industry and for “real change” that empowers electrical contractors and installers.

“Southwire has provided high quality electrical wire and cable for over six decades. We’re proud to now tie our name to a line of durable and cutting-edge tools for the electrical industry,” states Norman Adkins, a Southwire executive vice president who oversees the company’s Electrical Division. “Our launch advertising campaign states that our tools are ‘Built for Strength. Built for Reliability. Built for Work.’ We think users will agree.”

Moss has become vice president of Southwire’s Tools & Accessories six years after joining the company. He started as director of the company’s Lowe’s business, and in 2009 he was promoted to vice president of retail sales. He earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing from Miami University and a master’s of business administration from Wake Forest University.

“Brandon’s experience in our retail sector will be a tremendous asset as he leads our growth in the tools market,” said Jack Carlson, Southwire’s president of North America operations. “With a broad offering of Maxis contractor equipment, hand tools and other tools, we now are able to serve both contractors’ and electricians’ needs. Combined with our SIMpull Solutions products, the tools business unit will continue to be a business leader in cable pulling, handling and installation.”

About Southwire Company

A leader in technology and innovation, Southwire Company is one of North America's largest wire and cable producers. Southwire and its subsidiaries manufacture building wire and cable, metal-clad (MC) cable, FlatWire Ready^® products, cord products (including Tappan™ sound, security, and communication cables through Tappan Wire & Cable Inc.), utility cable products, industrial power cable, OEM wire products, SCR^® copper and aluminum rod, and continuous casting technology. Southwire also supplies MAXIS® Contractor Equipment and Southwire™ Electrician’s Tools to the commercial, industrial, retail, electrical wholesale outlet and utility construction markets. To learn more about Southwire's products, community involvement, and its vision for a sustainable Southwire, please visit Southwire on the web at www.southwire.com.

Siemon Launches Z-MAX Termination Challenge Contest

July 25, 2013. Watertown, CT – Siemon, a leading global network infrastructure specialist, today announces the launch of a new online contest: The Z-MAX Termination Challenge. This contest challenges cabling contractors to test their skills against fellow cabling pros to see who can perform the fastest termination using Siemon’s innovative Z-MAX RJ-45 outlet. And, with available prizes of $1000, $500 and $250 for the top three fastest times, the Z-MAX Termination Challenge offers more than bragging rights.

Contest entry is easy. Contractors simply need to record a smart-phone video of their fastest Z-MAX termination and email it to challenge@siemon.com. Full contest details, rules, video recording and email instructions are posted at: www.siemon.com/zmaxchallenge.

While at www.siemon.com/zmaxchallenge, contractors can also request a free Z-MAX Termination Challenge kit, which includes everything needed to practice a few Z-MAX terminations before recording what could be a $1000 video.

Siemon’s Channel Marketing Manager, Brian Duval, described the history behind the Z-MAX Termination Challenge. “We designed Z-MAX to be the fastest terminating category 6 and 6A outlets on the market and since we first launched Z-MAX in 2009, our contractors have been reporting increasingly impressive termination times” Duval explained. “Then, a few months back, Brandon Beckman, a Siemon Certified Installer äwith i2 Solutions in Naples, FL, posted a Z-MAX termination time that made our jaws drop.”

Actual footage of Brandon’s record-breaking time is posted at www.siemon.com/zmaxchallenge and can be seen at the conclusion of the brief Z-MAX Termination Challenge overview video.

“We originally billed Z-MAX 6A as a 60-second termination, but seeing Brandon in action makes it clear that techs in the field may be significantly quicker than that,” Duval added. “So we developed the Z-MAX Termination Challenge to see just how fast Z-MAX can be in the hands of cabling installation pros, and reward the best with some great prizes. While you don’t have to beat Brandon to win the money, anyone who does claims serious bragging rights.”

The Z-MAX Termination Challenge is open to cabling contractors only and ends on September 30, 2013. Please visit www.siemon.com/zmaxchallenge for details.

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, manufacturing and service partners throughout the world, Siemon offers the most comprehensive suite of copper (unshielded and shielded twisted-pair) category 5e, category 6 (Class E), category 6A (Class EA) and category 7/7A (Class F/FA), and multimode and singlemode optical fiber cabling systems available. With over 400 patents specific to structured cabling, from patch cords to patch panels, 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.

Article by Jim Hayes from ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR magazine “Fiber Optic Update: Where Are The Jobs In Fiber Optics?”

Jim Hayes = EC January 2013

Every year when we do a fiber optic update, we report on new technology and applications. This year, we’d like to take a different viewpoint and look at where we see the jobs are in fiber optics. In our role with the FOA, we talk to many contractors and network owners, so we get a broad picture of the industry. Here is our current summary of where the activity is.

Communications Infrastructure: Developed countries are well-connected on fiber already but are building more links for increasing broadband coverage. For those areas of the world that are still developing communications backbones, investments are being made in fiber to connect the landings of submarine cables to all parts of the region. Municipalities are installing fiber networks to connect public services, offer FTTH (fiber to the home) and lease fiber to big users.

Fiber To The Home (FTTH): The insatiable demand for Internet speeds, primarily driven by online video but also by the competition among cities to get tech companies to locate nearby, is creating lots of demand for FTTH and those who know how to design, install and run them. FTTH is no longer dominated by telcos as electrical utilities and independent organizations take matters into their own hands. The leaders in FTTH are two cities where gigabit FTTH is already available: Chattanooga, TN installed by the local electrical utility EPB and Kansas City where Google is doing a demonstration.

Wireless Broadband: Since practically everybody either has a smartphone and/or tablet or will get one soon, the traffic in mobile broadband is growing astronomically. Cellular towers are being connected on fiber to replace wireless or copper backhaul and those towers already on fiber are requiring upgrades. As the towers get more antennas to provide user bandwidth, those antennas are being connected to the base of the tower on fiber to reduce the bulk and weight of current coax cables. New microcells connected on fiber are also becoming available for use in urban areas.

Energy: While the term “Smart Grid” is becoming an overused term with broad (and fuzzy) meaning, one thing is certain – it will use fiber to tie together the electrical grids around the world to make them more efficient and reliable. Efficiency is obvious, but reliability is another issue made more obvious by recent large scale blackouts caused by failure of the grid. Alternative energy projects like wind and solar require fiber in large quantities to monitor and control the systems and connect to the grid. Recently FOA arranged for one of our schools to send 10 techs to work at the Ivanpah solar facility where they will be installing tens of thousands of cables. The Chattanooga gigabit FTTH project is based on a FTTM – fiber to the meter – system installed by the local electrical utility.

Premises Cabling: WiFi has moved in and taken over enterprise networks while the fiber and copper factions were fighting each other. Cabling in large public buildings is still required for connecting LANs, WiFi and cellular antennas, security cameras and systems and much more. For many LANs, fiber backbones and copper to the desktop work just fine, with the same old architecture used since the dark ages of telephones. But for larger numbers of users, especially where security is a big issue, FTTH PON architecture is becoming popular (POLs or passive optical LANs) and the FTTO (fiber to the office) architecture we’ve discussed in recent columns offers a viable alternative to traditional structured cabling. Both let you connect your devices with the standard “Cat 5” patchcord but use optimized singlemode fiber to save cost and really future proof the network.

Data Centers: If you are experienced in installing premises cabling, you are undoubtedly aware that data centers are sprouting up everywhere. You are probably also aware of the debate over where the data center goes next as network speeds jump from 1 to 10 to 100 gigabits per second. Will UTP copper find a place here? Will multimode fiber make the grade? Or can we expect to see data centers lead the move to singlemode fiber for every network? Google is already using singlemode – we have it confirmed from installers. Two singlemode fibers and WDM (wavelength division multiplexing) beats twenty multimode fibers in simplicity and soon, if not already, in cost. And for you electrical contractors, the issues of electrical power consumption are very important in data centers.

There are lots of jobs in fiber optics, just sometimes not in traditional applications. Contractors pursuing these jobs need to keep up to date with technology, especially the move from multimode to singlemode fiber, and ensure their workers and equipment are up to the task.

HAYES is a VDV writer and educator and the President of The Fiber Optic Association. Find him at www.jimhayes.com.

Reprinted with permission of ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR magazine www.ecmag.com and The FOA – Fiber Optic Association. www.thefoa.org

IFC and World Green Building Council Announce Global Partnership to Accelerate Green Building Growth

Washington, D.C., July 16, 2013—IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, and the World Green Building Council (WorldGBC) today announced that they will collaborate to rapidly scale up the construction of green buildings in emerging markets. The new partnership demonstrates a shared commitment to playing a leadership role in transforming the built environment and mitigating climate change.

The WorldGBC has agreed to connect its network of national green building councils to IFC’s investment and advisory program. The WorldGBC’s local affiliate councils will certify green buildings through IFC’s EDGE, a new web application that reveals solutions at the early design stage to reduce energy, water, and material consumption by 20 percent.

The partnership will focus on rapidly urbanizing countries with surging population growth that need to build sustainably to avoid emissions growth, bolster energy security, and minimize resource depletion. The built environment is expected to double by 2050; China alone has the potential to add 53 billion square meters of building space, which is equivalent to the building stock of Latin America today.

To date IFC has invested more than $570 million in resource-efficient buildings, including directly and through financial intermediaries. IFC has also worked with the governments of Colombia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam to help develop their regulatory environments.

“By leveraging the capabilities of the World Green Building Council and IFC, together we can provide accessibility to the entire green building industry while addressing the core needs of developing countries,” said Prashant Kapoor, Principal Industry Specialist, Green Buildings, IFC. “It is a window of opportunity to democratize the green buildings market.”

“The business case for green buildings continues to drive change throughout the world,” said Jane Henley, CEO, WorldGBC. “The WorldGBC and IFC are organizations dedicated to transforming the marketplace so that all buildings are more sustainable and efficient. Together, as leaders in this movement, we have an opportunity to directly affect sustainability on a global scale.”

"Green buildings are part of a global solution. Beyond emissions reduction and environmental protection, green buildings have extensive co-benefits, including cost-savings, job creation and improved human health and productivity," said Roger Platt, Senior Vice President, Global Policy and Law, USGBC. "The EDGE tool presents some exciting opportunities as an important stepping stone toward global sustainability."

The partnership was announced at “Transforming the Built Environment in Emerging Markets” on July 16 at IFC’s headquarters in Washington. For more information, visit www.ifc.org/greenbuildings.

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About IFC
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector. We help developing countries achieve sustainable growth by financing investment, mobilizing capital in international financial markets, and providing advisory services to businesses and governments. In FY12, IFC’s investments reached an all-time high of more than $20 billion, leveraging the power of the private sector to create jobs, spark innovation, and tackle the world’s most pressing development challenges. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.

About the World Green Building Council
The World Green Building Council is a network of national green building councils in more than ninety countries, making it the world’s largest international organization influencing the green building marketplace. The WorldGBC’s mission is to strengthen green building councils in member countries by championing their leadership and connecting them to a network of knowledge, inspiration, and practical support. For more information, visit www.worldgbc.org.

About the U.S. Green Building Council
The U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC) is committed to a prosperous and sustainable future through cost-efficient and energy-saving green buildings. USGBC works toward its mission of market transformation through its LEED green building program, robust educational offerings, a nationwide network of chapters and affiliates, the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, the Center for Green Schools, and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities. For more information, visit www.usgbc.org.

Free Admission – Available Online – To October’s NECA Show in D.C.

Electrical contractors and their employees, electricians, datacom & cabling experts, and other construction professionals are invited to The NECA Show. To be held Oct. 13-14-15 in Washington, D.C, admission is FREE.

Also invited: Electrical distributors, manufacturer’s representatives, building inspectors, electrical engineers & design consultants, architects, lighting designers & specifiers, and building owners & managers.

How can such a wide net be cast by a single event? Earlier this year, the NECA Show was acknowledged as one of the nation’s “Fastest 50” trade shows. Included among the 300 exhibitors scheduled to meet with attendees on the Show floor – open 11:30am to 5pm on Sun. 13^th, 10:30 to 4 on Mon. 14^th, and 10:30 to 2:30 on Tues. 15^th – are:

§ More than 25 lighting and lighting control manufacturers

§ Suppliers of in-building wireless, solar PV, & prefabrication services

§ Distributors of electrical, datacom, telecom & security products

§ Wire & cable, conduit, lightning protection, tools, test equipment & more.

A FREE Show badge includes admission to 19 technical workshops – held on the Show floor, no admission charge. Topics for these 50-minute sessions include data centers, LEDs, cybercrime, back-up power, fiber optics, and more.

Eight of these workshops will be held on Sunday the 13^th, making that day – together with the 300 exhibitors – a wise investment of a weekend for any attendee.

For those who wish to obtain a FREE registration:

1. Go to www2.cmrreg.com/neca_c4

2. When asked for your SPECIAL ADMISSION CODE, input PR5E

Additional information:

Exhibitors’ list: http://bit.ly/12gLB6H

19 FREE technical workshops: http://necaconvention.org/technical-workshops/

Next year’s NECA Show moves to Chicago. The event last was held in our nation’s capital in October 2001; it will next return to D.C. in the 2020s.

A Tribute to Dick Suddath – he was a man of many fine qualities. His life touched many folks in a myriad of positive ways

Monday August 26, 2013

Dear All;

This past Saturday morning, Dick Suddath, 94, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family and loved ones. He enjoyed good health until the last few months which was quite a blessing. He had a wonderful life and truly loved all of you who are this company and have made it what it is today. Many of you knew him in his more vibrant years, yet even in his early nineties his personality was easily recognized. With his passing, we mourn the loss of a visionary, great friend, leader, mentor and community champion.

I want to give those of you who didn’t know him some background on his life. Dick was born in Jacksonville on April 22, 1919, the same year his father, Carl Suddath, founded Suddath Moving and Storage Company, known now as The Suddath Companies. He graduated from Lee High School, began college at the University of Florida but graduated from the University of Colorado. His law school studies were interrupted by World War II and his service in the United States Army as a military instructor at the Citadel and at Gordon Military Academy. During the war years Dick’s life took a different path. In 1943 he married his college sweetheart, Barbara Anne Johnson, and in 1944, Dick’s father, Carl Suddath, died of leukemia, leaving Suddath Moving and Storage Company in Dick’s hands. Dick and Barbara moved to Jacksonville when the war ended and Dick took up his father’s reins. Dick’s goal was to sell the company and return to law school. We are all grateful that he changed his mind and stayed the course.

Over the next 45 years, Dick presided over the company and laid the groundwork for its growth. During his time as President and then Chairman of the company, The Suddath Companies grew from a small local moving and storage company into a relocation and warehousing organization with nine Southeast branch offices that provided nationwide and worldwide services. Early in his tenure Dick recognized the need for agent partnerships throughout the country, and in the late 1940’s he worked with other moving and storage companies to found Atlas Van Lines, still one of the nation’s largest van lines. We subsequently left Atlas and joined United Van Lines in 1981.

Dick recognized that for his company to excel it needed a strong team with diverse talents. Beginning in the 1970’s he hired a core group of professionals and together they accelerated the growth and diversification of the company. As corporate America grew, the need for international relocation services expanded and Dick oversaw the creation of Suddath International. Military personnel relocation, always a significant part of the company’s services, became a separate division that would focus on the particular needs of this client base. Dick was deeply proud of the successes of this team and frequently expressed his admiration for his employees. He was recognized as a leader in the industry and served for many years on the board of Atlas Van Lines and as President of the Movers’ and Warehousemen’s Association (now called AMSA).

Dick retired in 1989 as Chairman of the Board, passing the reins on to me, but he continued to be involved as a mentor and consultant.

Dick was an enthusiastic Boy Scout, earning the rank of Eagle Scout in high school. He served as a board member and as president of the Northeast Florida Council of the Boy Scouts of America. He also served as President of the Jacksonville Children’s Museum, now known at the Jacksonville Museum of Arts and Sciences, and as President of the Northeast Florida Division of the Children’s Home Society. He was an active fundraiser during his time on the Jacksonville Symphony Orchestra board. Dick also loved art and enjoyed supporting Jacksonville and North Florida artists, and our home office building displays the fruits of this interest.

For more than sixty years he was a devoted member of The Meninak Club in Jacksonville. He served on its board and as President and was its oldest active member. He transformed rental houses into a shelter for battered women and was extremely dedicated in his retirement years to the Meals on Wheels program and to the Sulzbacher Center. Some of the strongest traits of Dick’s character still live on today in The Suddath Companies’ culture, including our strong commitment to community support and involvement.

Those of you who knew Dick personally recognized him as a multi-faceted person, patriarch of his family and a strong leader in his personal, business and community activities. He is best known for his private and public generosity, for his passion for those he loved and for his determination for success wherever he focused his energy and resources. He was an intellectual, a visionary, emotional and tenacious. He had a great capacity for intimacy.

While Dick valued hard work and stewardship, he also enjoyed having fun. He was an avid boater and enjoyed entertaining friends and clients on his boat. He loved traveling and primitive camping and was a member of the “Over the Hill Canoe Club” and the Florida Trail Association. He became a competitive runner in his fifties, completed a marathon in his sixties and competed in the Gate River Run at 72. In retirement he turned to writing and published an historical novel, A Simple Thread, based on his father’s family, as well as a children’s book, Ohio is Purple.

During his years of operating the company, he was assisted by many wonderful employees. One of these, Oscar Randolph, became in their mutual retirement Dick’s close friend and travel companion. Dick loved Oscar and was deeply grateful for his presence and service.

The company is planning a memorial celebration of Dick’s life on Friday, September 6, from 4:00 to 6:00 at The Crowne Plaza for those of you in Jacksonville who wish to attend. “Old timers” who worked with Dick and want to share in the celebration are welcome as well. The Human Resource’s office will follow up with more information in the coming days.

The Suddath family will hold a memorial service at All Saints Episcopal Church, 4171 Hendricks Avenue, Jacksonville, Florida at 5:30 PM on Saturday, September 7. A reception will follow in the parish hall.

In lieu of flowers the family requests that donations be made to The Sulzbacher Center, 611 East Adams Street, Jacksonville, Florida 32202 or to The Meninak Foundation, 5932 North Caribbean Court, Jacksonville, Florida 32277.

I appreciate your thoughts.

Kindly,
Steve signature.png

Stephen M. Suddath
Chairman of the Board
The Suddath Companies

www.suddath.com

Communication Planning Corporation was honored to work with Dick Suddath and his team on a venture to build Americall Long Distance Service Company. The project was a wonderful success and the experience of working with Mr. Suddath was priceless. That was before the Internet changed all the rules on long distance calling. www.communicationplanning.com

2014 National Electrical Code released

August 23, 2013, The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) officially released the 2014 National Electrical Code on Thursday, August 15. That day the Code became available as a PDF document through the National Fire Codes Subscription Service All Access; NFPA expected the hard copy to be available by the end of August. Also, the first of several four-day seminars based on the 2014 NEC took place the week of August 19 at NFPA headquarters in Quincy, MA.

The association’s chief engineer Mark Earley commented, “To members of the electrical community, especially those that live and breathe the NEC, the release of the latest edition of the Code is highly anticipated because it provides the most up-to-date electrical safety requirements that will impact their work.

“I would argue that the NEC is equally as important to people outside of the electrical community,” Earley continued, “many of whom may not even know it exists, yet are protected daily from fire and electrical hazards because of it and have been for years.”

In addition to publishing the NEC, NFPA provides companion resources and education to help professionals learn how to understand and apply the latest edition. “A host of resources are coming soon including the 2014 NEC Handbook, pocket guides for residential and commercial applications, ebooks and an app,” the NFPA said. “Many items are more accessible than ever and are offered in a variety of formats with options to purchase as a set and have content available in both print and digital formats.”

Additionally, NFPA recently opened an online resource called nec connect, with the goal of providing members of the electrical community and others interested in electrical issues with news, information, tips, learning resources and networking opportunities related to the NEC. “The website is a resource for installers and contractors, designers and engineers, code enforcers, and policymakers for all things related to the NEC,” NFPA said. “It is a place where participants can engage with others who share an interest in electrical safety.” You can visit nec connect here. www.nfpa.org