Industry Associations and Industry Media are two of the most important components of our professional survival. These two vital areas are critical resources.  Industry Associations and Industry Media give us the tools to keep up and stay abreast of “all the news that you can use”.

Behind the scenes

The Business and Professional Associations promote the business and professional interest of their members. With the economy in a tailspin many businesses are suffering. Whether you're a job seeker, or a professional looking for new challenges or career development, professional associations offer great value to their members, especially in these challenging times.

Offer access to a network of colleagues in the same field, which is valuable since often "who" you know is as important as "what" you know.

Associations create networking communities of professionals with similar interests; by industry, job function, or geographic area.

Provide mentor opportunities at the local or national level.

Professionals can enhance their leadership skills through volunteer work within the organization, as well as speaking and publishing opportunities with an association's events or publications.

Provide access to expert information that reflects industry trends and primary research. This information can help you keep pace with changes in the profession.

Deliver professional development opportunities, through certification programs courses and local chapter meetings to continue one's education. Some professions have continuing education credit requirements, which can be earned through an association's learning resources. Completing courses or earning a certification can help job seekers demonstrate technical skills and give a competitive advantage.

Demonstrate a commitment to your chosen profession. Along with adding the organization's name to your résumé, you can develop new skills that you might not be able to acquire on the job.

Offer career resources and job postings that may not be available elsewhere.

BICSI

BICSI is a professional association supporting the information transport systems (ITS) industry. ITS covers the spectrum of voice, data and video technologies. It encompasses the design, integration and installation of pathways, spaces, fiber- and copper-based distribution systems, wireless-based systems and infrastructure that supports the transportation of information and associated signaling between and among communications and information gathering devices. https://www.bicsi.org/default.aspx

BICSI provides information, education and knowledge assessment for individuals and companies in the ITS industry. We serve more than 25,000 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 140

The Association Professional in action:

John Clark, Executive Director of BICSI explained that BICSI’s value is enhanced by the “power through partnership” between the Membership, Board, and Staff. www.bicsi.org They are able to continue to add value to the association with a strategic plan. BICSI’s strategic plan includes:

¨       Nextgen

¨       Globalization

¨       Localization

¨       Standards

NECA

National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA). www.necanet.org  NECA is the major trade association for the $100 billion U.S. electrical industry, and its members are organized into 119 local chapters and 12 international chapters. The national staff is headquartered in Bethesda, Maryland, and in four regional offices around the country.

John M. Grau is the Chief Executive Officer for the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA).

Mr. Grau became NECA’s chief staff officer in April 1986. Previously, he was Executive Vice President of the Milwaukee Chapter, NECA, and served as a field representative associate with the NECA Western Region. Prior to joining NECA, Mr. Grau was a realty specialist for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in Washington, D.C.

Mr. Grau is Vice Chairman of ELECTRI International – The Foundation for Electrical Construction, Inc., and serves on the Boards of the Electrical Safety Foundation International and the Plan for the Settlement of Jurisdictional Disputes in the Construction Industry. He is co-chair of the National Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee for the Electrical Industry, a program that dedicates over $110 million annually on worker training. Mr. Grau is also a trustee of the Helmets to Hardhats program and a corporate member of Underwriters Laboratories, Chicago.

Mr. Grau is a member of the U. S. Chamber of Commerce Associations Committee of 100 and the American Society of Association Executives, where he has served on several committees. In 1986, Mr. Grau was inducted as a Fellow of the Academy of Electrical Contracting. He is listed in Who’s Who in America.

Dan Walter is Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for NECA. He supervises numerous program areas, including standards and safety, communications, marketing, government affairs, the NECA Convention and Trade Show, and ELECTRICAL CONTRACTOR magazine.

Walter started his career with NECA in 1975 as a staff associate assigned to the Midwestern Region. He spent 10 years as manager of the Quad Cities Chapter, NECA, before coming to NECA headquarters to replace the venerable Bob Wilkinson as Director of Services.

He is also the President of the Associated Specialty Contractors (ASC). ASC is an umbrella organization of nine national construction trade associations. ASC publishes Guidelines for a Successful Construction Project in conjunction with the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) and the American Subcontractors Association (ASA. Walter also represents NECA on many construction industry committees and forums.

NAED

The National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED)

Since 1908, the National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED) has served as the trade association for the electrical distribution industry. NAED is a 501(c)6 not-for-profit organization dedicated to serving and protecting the electrical distribution channel. As part of that mission, NAED provides networking opportunities through approximately 20 meetings & conferences a year, training and research through the NAED Education & Research Foundation, industry information and research through TED Magazine. www.naed.org

Tom Naber - NAED President and Chief Executive Officer

The National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED) was founded on December 9, 1908 as the Electric Supply Jobbers Association (ESJA), headquartered in Chicago, Ill. The first goal of this new organization was to establish the electrical distributor as an essential force in the electrical industry and the economy.

The association changed its name to the National Electrical Wholesalers Association (NEWA) in June 1928. At this time, it also moved its headquarters to New York City. In 1949, the Association changed its name to the National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED).

In 1969, the NAED Foundation was formed. This also marked the beginning of the public relations campaign to sell the value of distribution to the electrical industry. By 1971, NAED Foundation was offering 64 seminars. Today, NAED Foundation has impacted thousands of individuals with its multitude of educational programs.

The '70s were a busy decade. In addition to many other activities, NAED debuted the first "Cost of Doing Business Study," which later became the Performance Analysis Report (PAR), and the Under Forty Club, which eventually became Leadership Enhancement and Development (LEAD). Today, PAR has become one of NAED's most valuable services while the LEAD group has become a driving force of leadership.

NAED moved from Wilton, Conn. to its current home in St. Louis, Mo. in 1997. The St. Louis headquarters continue to be the center for the daily operations of the association.

Thanks to the support and involvement of its members, NAED has become the central source of the nation's distributors and their affiliates. It continues to be the meeting place of the industry, providing the only meetings attended by the entire electrical industry.

Regardless of what the future holds, NAED will be standing strong beside electrical distribution, helping it remain the channel of choice for electrical supplies!

ACUTA

ACUTA, the Association for Information Communications Technology Professionals in Higher Education, is an international non-profit educational association serving colleges and universities. www.acuta.org  ACUTA represents over 1700 individuals at nearly 800 institutions of higher education with members ranging from small schools and community colleges to the 50 largest U.S. institutions representing diverse Carnegie classifications in all 50 states, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.  ACUTA also has Corporate Affiliate members, representing all categories of communications technology vendors who serve the college/university market.

Executive Director, Jeri Semer, CAE - She is responsible for managing the professional staff in the Lexington headquarters office. Jeri implements policies approved by the Board of Directors, and ensure that the Board and committees have staff support. Other responsibilities include representing ACUTA with higher education and telecommunications associations, developing programs and member services consistent with the Strategic Plan, and working with staff on all ACUTA programs. She also works on legislative and regulatory matters.

CABA

The Continental Automated Buildings Association (CABA) is a not-for-profit industry association dedicated to the advancement of intelligent home and intelligent building technologies in North America. www.caba.org

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. Ron Zimmer is the President and CEO of CABA. His energy and charismatic leadership has brought the CABA message to the attention of millions.

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 now exists as CABA's Connected Home Research Council.

In February 1988, a meeting was called at the National Research Council of Canada's headquarters in Ottawa to explore the possibility of establishing a Canadian association of like-minded, building-related organizations.

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 attended.

This diverse group of organizations resolved to devote their resources to the promotion of intelligent buildings in Canada through the establishment of the Canadian Automated Buildings Association in November 1988.  An initial fund of $100,000 was pledged by the Board of Directors and an interim office was supplied in Toronto by the Electrical and Electronic Manufacturers Association of Canada.

Gerry Meade, a senior Ontario Hydro manager was seconded to occupy the post of executive director. Honeywell, a major manufacturer of heating and environmental controls initially occupied the organization's chairmanship.  In 1990 former Bell Canada assistant vice president, Jack Fraser, was appointed president.  In 1991, Alan McKinley from the National Research Council of Canada became president of the organization.

In 1995, the association organized its first major collaborative research project focused on home energy and environmental management systems. The $160,000 study involved 16 different funding organizations, including federal and provincial government agencies, manufacturers, and utilities.

In 1998, CABA was renamed the Continental Automated Buildings Association and given an expanded international mission by its Board of Directors to encourage the development, promotion, pursuit and understanding of integrated systems and automation in homes and buildings throughout North America.

In 1999, Ronald J. Zimmer, an experienced and certified association executive was appointed by the CABA Board of Directors to lead the organization.  With the expanded mission, the organization began to grow to near 400 members involved in the design, manufacture, installation and retailing of products relating to home automation and building automation.

In 2003, CABA and the Government of Canada completed the Technology Roadmap
(TRM) for Intelligent Buildings Technologies, a collaborative $110,000 research project between industry and five federal government departments and agencies. The project focused upon commercial, institutional and high-rise residential buildings, and culminated in a final report that provided an in-depth examination of intelligent buildings technologies.

In 2006, CABA completed a segmentation study that examined the consumer profiles of those who buy digital lifestyle products and services. Entitled the Connected Home Roadmap, report assisted manufacturers and other vendors that catered directly to end-users to identify resource requirements and potential investment opportunities.  In that year, CABA also integrated the operations of the Internet Home Alliance.

The Internet Home Alliance was a cross-industry network of leading companies conducting collaborative research to advance the connected home market. Founded in 2000, the Alliance provided its members with the real-world testing opportunities required to bring their home technology products and services to market more quickly, successfully and cost-effectively.

Under the new arrangement, IHA's collaborative research program was continued under the CABA umbrella through CABA's Connected Home Research Council, which oversees a wide array of consumer research studies and real-world pilot projects.

There are more than 25,000 Business and Professional Associations offering value to their members and their industries. We will strive to bring you more information on these and other organizations. Warning: Don’t be fooled by some groups who masquerading as associations. They bring no value to you.

Information Overload

The Internet has put the equivalent of the Library of Congress and more in the grasp of everyone. The size of the information available is staggering. How do we cut to the core of the information that we need?

The Industry Media is one of the most important components of our professional survival. These publications are critical resources.  The Industry Media give us the tools to keep up and stay abreast of “all the news that you can use”.

The staff and contributors to these publications work diligently to gather sort and prioritize the most important news and issues for their readers.

For example, at the BICSI Conference in January 2009, we saw representatives, editors, publishers, and staff from almost all the major industry publications that cover the communications industry. To name a few:

Electrical Contractor Magazine www.ecmag.com

S+LSS - Security + Life Safety Systems magazine www.ecmag.com

Communications News Magazine www.comnews.com

CNS – Cabling Networking Systems Magazine www.cnsmagazine.com

BICSI News Magazine https://www.bicsi.org/default.aspx

TED – The Electrical Distributor Magazine www.tedmag.com

CI&M – Cabling Installation & Maintenance Magazine www.pennWell.com

The ACUTA Journal www.acuta.org

OSP – Outside Plant Magazine www.ospmag.com/

The publications are working hard for you.

But that’s just my opinion,

Frank Bisbee
"Heard On The Street" Monthly Column
http://www.wireville.com
4949 Sunbeam Rd, Suite 16
Jacksonville, FL 32257
(904) 645-9077 office
(904) 645-9058 fax
frank@wireville.com

Coleman Cable Introduces Signa-Wave™ Low Loss Coaxial Cables

Coleman Cable Inc. (Nasdaq: CCIX) introduces the Signa-Wave™ brand of high performance, American made low-loss 50 Ohm RF (radio frequency) coaxial cables. 

The Signa-Wave family of low-loss coaxial cables offer superior performance and loss characteristics over higher frequency bandwidths than the “traditional” Military type 50 Ohm coaxial cables: RG58, RG213, RG223, RG214, & RG217. These cables are predominantly used in Land Mobile Radio Communications, but have also evolved for use in: Wi-Fi Networks, Broadband, Satellite Antennas, Mobile Phone, Terrestrial Microwave, Military, Air Traffic Control, Medical, & RFID antennas, with new applications & challenges for low-loss 50 Ohm cables arising all the time.

Signa-Wave low-loss coaxial cables are manufactured in the USA at Coleman Cable’s Hayesville, North Carolina plant.  This facility has been a leading coaxial cable manufacturing plant for well over 36 years and is an ISO certified, MIL-I-45208 compliant Qualified Products List [QPL] facility with the Defense Logistics Agency; the Defense Supply Center Columbus, OHIO. DSCC is the primary US Government Depot, servicing the electronic needs to all branches of our armed forces.

According to Tony Gabriel, director of engineering at Coleman Cable, “the Signa-Wave coaxial cables are manufactured in accordance and meet these military standards for superior electrical performance.”

About Coleman Cable Inc.

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

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Coleman Cable Introduces Welder Extension Cords

Coleman Cable Inc. (Nasdaq: CCIX) introduces Welder Extension Cords that bring portability to welding machines and create convenience for the welding contractor.

These 8/3 STW extension cords are available in 25 foot lengths (50 foot lengths coming in May 2009) and deliver 40A at 250 volts (10,000 watts). The Welder Extension Cords feature a STW jacket with molded ends for heavy-duty performance and lighted receptacle for convenience and safety.  These cords are ideal for new commercial construction, MRO industrial and general welding applications.

 “The Welder Extension Cords provide a convenient, safe method to extend the range of welding equipment,” said Dave Oriatti, vice president of industrial distribution at Coleman Cable.  “This new cord series is another example of Coleman Cable’s innovation and commitment to adding value to its customers and the markets it serves.”

About Coleman Cable Inc.

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

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CSC / WESCO 2009 GREEN & SUSTAINABILITY SUMMIT

Communications Supply Corporation (CSC) and WESCO Distribution announced today that they will be hosting their first Green & Sustainability Summit in Chicago, at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare, in Rosemont, IL. There are ten such events scheduled over the course of the year around the country. The next scheduled event is to be held in Phoenix in April, with more details to follow.

This unique one day event brings WESCO and CSC’s management teams together with senior-level IT, operations and facilities professionals from large organizations to provide a state-of-the-art understanding about the Green and Sustainability movement in the United States. Attendees will be presented with information to assist in the planning and construction of a green roadmap that addresses all aspects of a 21^st Century Digital Building.

The Summit will feature high-profile keynote speakers, including
Andy Karsner, the Former Assistant US Secretary of The Department of Energy and executive members from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). The event will also cover best-practice recommendations surrounding data center power, cooling and bandwidth efficiencies, green lighting solutions, and various funding opportunities through grants, tax credits and other sources. Additionally, a thirty-company tradeshow will be held featuring the nation’s leading manufacturers who share the same green and sustainability vision as CSC and WESCO.

“Out aim is to offer customers who are interested in implementing a green strategy the resources, tools, and product solutions that focus on data centers and lighting technologies”, says Frank LaPlante, CSC’s Vice President of Marketing.  “The data center environment alone accounts for 3 – 4% of the nation’s energy consumption.  We can demonstrate ways to take costs out of our customers’ businesses, identify funding sources, and leverage utility rebate opportunities.  We are very pleased with the enthusiasm this event is generating as WESCO and CSC provide a comprehensive green solutions package.”

For additional information about this program please visit www.wescogogreen.com/events.asp 

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Democrats earmark billions for broadband stimulus

Democrats have proposed allocating about $36 billion to improve the country's broadband infrastructure as part of an $825 billion proposal from House Democrats and the incoming Obama administration that includes provisions for the wireless industry. The bill would provide $6 billion in grants to bring broadband access to underserved areas and $30 billion in loans for boosting speeds on both wireline and wireless networks, although published reports say the package appears to lack tax breaks that telecom and cable companies had sought.

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New Electronic Templates for RHINO 6000 and 6500 Label Printers Speed Labeling of SMP Connectivity Products

RHINO Professional Labeling Tools, a brand of DYMO and part of Newell Rubbermaid’s Technology business unit, announced a product collaboration with SMP Data Communications. This support includes the development and distribution of pre-formatted electronic templates and was formed from a mutual goal of making the labeling of structured cabling systems easier and more efficient for installers.

Specifically, the collaboration between RHINO and SMP has resulted in electronic templates that allow the RHINO 6000 and RHINO 6500 label printers to quickly format labels for SMP connectivity products, including patch cords, faceplates, patch panels, 110 blocks, and other structured cabling system components. The electronic templates can be downloaded for free from RHINO’s website, www.rhinolabeling.com and imported into RHINO CONNECT software. Label information can then be entered into the template either manually or directly from a Windows-based PC application, then printed out onto labels that specifically fit SMP.

“We are pleased and excited to be working with SMP Data Communications,” stated Rob Rosenquist, Director of Sales and Channel Marketing for RHINO. “SMP is a leader in connectivity components and RHINO label printers are a leader in marking and identifying these components. It was a natural fit that we work together to help installers accomplish this task faster, easier, and more cost-efficiently.”

“With the Rhino templates for SMP components, we are pleased to give installers a means to have a complete standards compliant solution that includes meeting the TIA 606 labeling requirements.” Stated Brad Everette, Vice President of Sales – Western Region.  

SMP Data Communications, formerly Superior Modular Products, is a part of the Optical Cable Corporation family. SMP is an international leader in the designing and manufacturing of quality innovative copper and fiber connectivity components. It provides superior structured cabling solutions for the data communications market.

RHINO is the industrial brand of DYMO and part of Newell Rubbermaid’s Technology business unit. RHINO label printers are engineered with features that enable installers to label datacom and other systems quickly and easily, such as PC-connectivity, pre-programmed terms and symbols, built-in memory, instant “Hot Key” label formatting, industrial-strength labels and more.

About RHINO

RHINO is a brand of DYMO, a Newell Rubbermaid technology company.

Newell Rubbermaid’s innovative global technology solutions enable businesses, educational institutions, and consumers to more efficiently share, manage and organize information. Our global technology brands are organized around four platforms: The Specialty Printing and Labeling Platform includes DYMO® label/CD/DVD printers and file scanning software (www.dymo.com) and RHINO Industrial Labeling Systems (www.rhinolabeling.com). The Analog to Digital Platform includes CardScan® business card scanners and contact management software featuring AtYourService™ (www.cardscan.com), and DYMO File™, software that transforms paper documents into organized archives of electronic files (www.dymofile.com). The Internet Postage Platform includes endicia™ online shipping, mailing and customized postage solutions (www.endicia.com) and (www.pictureitpostage.com). The Classroom Technology Platform includes mimio™ interactive whiteboards and digital ink recorders (www.mimio.com). These technology brands join a rich heritage of brands at Newell Rubbermaid including Calphalon®, EXPO®, Goody®, Graco®, Irwin®, Lenox®, Paper Mate®, Parker®, Rolodex®, Rubbermaid®, Sharpie® and Waterman®.

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Fluke Networks scores a big hit with BICSI attendees in Orlando

Fluke Networks, provider of innovative Network SuperVision Solutions™ for the testing, monitoring and analysis of enterprise and telecommunications networks, hosted several activities for the Winter BICSI Conference in Orlando.

On Tuesday, January 20, the public hosted to a free lunch jointly hosted by Fluke Networks and OFS.  During lunch the two companies presented "Keys to Successfully Implementing Fiber in the Datacenter".  Presenters included Harley B. Lang III RCDD, Fluke Networks Marketing Manager for fiber optic products, and Tony Irujo, Manager of Customer Technical Support for OFS Optics.  Hugo Draye, Fluke Networks’ Datacom Cabling Product Manager and recipient of the Harry J. Pfister award at last year’s BICSI conference, was the master of ceremonies. 

Fluke Networks and OFS combined efforts during exhibit hours and provided live demonstrations of fiber inspection and testing. Attendees saw demonstrations of loss testing, Tier 1 certification, Tier 2 testing with an Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) as well as best practices for inspection and cleaning.

Attendees of the BICSI conference had the opportunity to win a SimpliFiber Pro FTK1450 Test Kit.  This high-end fiber verification kit with a value of $6045 features the new SimpliFiber® Pro Optical Power Meter and Fiber Test Kit along with various other fiber inspection and troubleshooting tools.   SimpliFiber® Pro increases efficiency by cutting test times in half and allowing a single technician to quickly perform tasks that previously required a two-person team. 

SimpliFiber Pro is the next generation replacement for the popular SimpliFiber product line. For more details go to www.flukenetworks.com/simplifiberpro.

About Fluke Networks
Fluke Networks provides innovative solutions for the installation and certification, testing, monitoring and analysis of copper, fiber and wireless networks used by enterprises and telecommunications carriers. The company's comprehensive line of Network SuperVision™ Solutions provide network installers, owners, and maintainers with superior vision, combining speed, accuracy and ease of use to optimize network performance. Headquartered in Everett, Washington, the company distributes its products in more than 50 countries. More information can be found by visiting Fluke Networks’ Web site at www.flukenetworks.com or by calling (800) 283-5853.

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HAI to Demonstrate New Wireless Energy Management Products Designed for ZigBee® at the International Builders Show

HAI (Home Automation, Inc.), a leading manufacturer of integrated automation and security products since 1985, will demonstrate a new suite of wireless Energy Management Products Designed for ZigBee(r) in booth 4890 at the International Builders Show (IBS) in Las Vegas, Nevada to be held January 20 - 23, 2009.  ZigBee is the global wireless language connecting dramatically different devices to work together and enhance everyday life. ZigBee technology is well suited to a wide range of energy management and efficiency, building automation, industrial, medical, home automation applications.

The new products to be demonstrated  include an RC 2000 Omnistat ZB (HAI part number RC-2000ZB) communicating programmable thermostat, a 5amp Wireless Load Control Module (HAI part number 73A00-4),  and two wireless table top control devices; the MicroControl (HAI Part number 81A00-2) and the Wireless Coordinator for HAI Omni & Lumina Controllers (HAI Part number 81A00-3).  They are all part of HAI's expanding Energy Management product line.

The Omnistat2 Wireless 7-day programmable communicating thermostat is for conventional single stage heat/cool, heat pump, two speed heat pump, two stage conventional, and zone control systems. It is fully interactive with all HAI home control systems and is compatible with most others. It may be controlled both locally and remotely and is designed to precisely control the temperature and humidity within the home.  Using advanced digital technology it actually "learns" a home's heating and cooling patterns and adjusts control to maximize both the HVAC system's efficiency and the occupants' comfort.  All Omnistat2 models meet the Environmental Protection Agency's ENERGY STAR guidelines for energy efficiency.

The 5A Wireless Load Control Module controls low voltage circuits in outdoor air conditioning units, pool and spa heaters and pumps, generators, and more. It has ultra low stand-by power for energy savings.

The MicroControl is a tabletop, bedside, or wall mount display and control device for selected HAI controllers, Omnistat2 Thermostats, and Load Control Module functions.

The Wireless Coordinator for HAI Omni & Lumina Controllers plugs into a serial port on an HAI Omni or Lumina family controller and allows control of HAI Wireless Energy Management Components. The display helps set up the installation of the wireless systems.

HAI's new ZigBee Wireless Energy Management products are excellent for retrofit applications and will be shipping in the third quarter of 2009.

HAI is a member of the ZigBee Alliance.

HAI products are available through a worldwide network of Distributors and installing dealers.  For more information on the award-winning Omnistat2 thermostat or other HAI products, please visit www.homeauto.com or call 800-229-7256.

To download a high res photo of HAI's MicroControl, please click here:

http://www.homeauto.com/mediacenter/HaiPRImage.asp?image=81A00-2.jpg

About HAI (www.homeauto.com):  HAI (Home Automation, Inc.) is a privately held manufacturer of integrated automation and security products for residential and commercial use based in New Orleans, LA.  Incorporated in 1985, HAI has developed a full line of award-winning automation products, including home control systems, programmable communicating thermostats, smart light switches, Whole Home Audio systems, video surveillance equipment, Touchscreen interfaces, and software that allows access and control of an automation system over the Internet.  All products are sold through HAI's worldwide network of Distribution Partners and installed by trained dealers in over 80 countries.

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HCM and HellermannTyton Introduce H2Max Partnership

Hitachi Cable Manchester (HCM) and HellermannTyton have partnered to form H2Max, a new end-to-end solution offering high performance network infrastructure solutions. H2Max solutions include the connective devices of HellermannTyton and communications cables of HCM. Both copper and fiber optic-based solutions are available. Copper solutions include Category 6A, Category 6+, Category 6, Category5e+, and fiber optic solutions including a 10 Gigabit fiber optic solution.

The H2Max program offers a performance guarantee, third party verification, lifetime warranty, and end-to-end support featuring knowledgeable, personalized assistance. A contractor certification program is offered and tailored to the needs of each contracting company. In addition, contractors can qualify for an exciting H2Max rewards program, based on purchases of products from HCM and HellermannTyton. 

The H2Max family of network cabling solutions has been designed to offer exceptional performance with the value that is increasingly important in today’s economic times. With H2Max, selecting, installing, and guaranteeing the performance of a network infrastructure is easy. Both HCM and HellermannTyton are known as experts in their field, yet both companies are easy to do business with. Together, HellermannTyton and HCM provide a level of customer service that is personal, on the spot, and committed to the success of each customer. 

For more information on H2Max, call 1-800-822-4352 or go to the website:  www.h2maxsolutions.com

About Hitachi Cable

Hitachi Cable Manchester, Inc. (HCM) offers a full range of voice and data grade twisted-pair cables (up to 400-pair count), fiber optic cables (multimode and single mode indoor, indoor/outdoor and outside plant configurations up to 432 fiber count) and electronics cables. Its modern 300,000 square foot standards and technology based manufacturing facility in Manchester, New Hampshire is part of the Hitachi family that is listed as one of the world's largest corporations. This fully automated facility is ISO 9001 registered and it manufactures cables that are designed to exceed the most stringent ANSI, UL, CSA requirements as well as compliance with TIA and ISO telecommunications cabling standards.

For more information about the company and its product line, visit the website at www.hcm.hitachi.com

About HellermannTyton

HellermannTyton is a leading, global manufacturer of network cabling solutions which help connect, manage, and identify cable and components.  Located in over 30 countries, HellermannTyton brings the best to its customers through global resources channeled to local implementations. Flexibility, agility, and the ability to create value-added, market driven solutions are the hallmarks of every HellermannTyton company across the world.  No matter the complexity of your project – if it entails global or local management, HellermannTyton is uniquely poised to bring you high performance solutions from the data center to the work area. 

For more information about the company and its product line, visit the website at:

www.hellermann.tyton.com

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IAQA 12th Annual Meeting & Indoor Air Expo

February 24-26, 2009 · Omni Fort Worth & Fort Worth Convention Center · Fort Worth, TX

For the past eleven years, the Indoor Air Quality Association has delivered annual meetings and expositions that set unprecedented levels for technical content, business networking and product exhibits. For 2009, IAQA is again preparing to take its convention to a whole new level of excitement, information and opportunity!

The IAQA 12th Annual Meeting will be co-located with the 41st Annual Meeting of the Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA). The two organizations will come together several times each day at the combined ACCA/IAQA Indoor Air Expo . the world�fs largest exposition of IAQ and HVAC products ever assembled under one roof!

Those who register for the IAQA 12th Annual Meeting & Indoor Air Expo may select from over 50 IAQA technical sessions to attend. The IAQA Convention Committee reviewed nearly 100 abstracts and narrowed its selection to those offering the latest information, innovative approaches, and best science for indoor environmental professionals. Speakers include a distinguished group of doctors, professors, scientists, IAQ practitioners, health and safety experts, and remediation and restoration pros. IAQA registered attendees who desire more information about HVAC�]related subjects may also attend technical sessions offered separately by ACCA.

Come to Fort Worth in February to join thousands of professionals and contractors taking part in sessions featuring the industry�fs best education and most qualified speakers. Meet IAQA and ACCA colleagues each day for breakfast, lunch and cocktail receptions at the Indoor Air Expo. Come to experience the very best Annual Meeting ever produced by IAQA, and the largest Indoor Air Expo in history!

Join us in Fort Worth for the best IAQA Annual Meeting ever produced. For registration and hotel information, click here: IAQA 12th Annual Meeting

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IDEAL Appoints Sir Nickless™ as Electrical Industry's Best Solution for Cutting Armored Cable

Responding to an increased usage by electricians of armored cable, IDEAL today introduced its Sir Nickless™ rotary cable cutter. This exclusive, patent-pending and affordable cutting tool prevents the occurrence of nicked conductors while cutting BX, MC, AC, Greenfield and other types of aluminum or steel armored cable up to 3/8" diameter, and is especially effective with popular Southwire® MCap™ cable.

"The number one complaint electricians have with armored cable is the difficulty in safely cutting it without nicking the wires that can lead to a short circuit," explained Bruce Hartranft, Business Unit Manager for IDEAL. "Sir Nickless has a patent-pending design that lets electricians take full advantage of armored cable without the downside of nicked wires."

Cable manufacturers and NEMA (RV-3-2600) strongly recommend the use of rotary cutters like Sir Nickless for armored cable in place of wire cutters, shears or hacksaws.

Unique Curved Tray

Unlike conventional rotary cutters that have straight cutting trays, IDEAL engineered Sir Nickless™ with a unique curved tray that improves cutting performance by forcing wires to lie tight against the bottom wall of the cable and safely away from the top-positioned cutting blade. In addition, an Auto Cam Lock allows Sir Nickless to cut small diameter flex cable such as Southwire MCap without the use of awkward plastic shims.

Sir Nickless™ is the right tool for electricians who repeatedly require perfectly cut armored cable and timesaving precision to reduce wire nicking.  Its rugged, all metal frame will withstand worksite conditions while its high-performance blade will stay sharper longer.

Price & Availability

IDEAL Sir Nickless™ cable cutters are immediately available through distribution and select retailers with an MSRP of $31.48 (U.S.).

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

ABOUT IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC.

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

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MOHAWK Announces The Addition Of Rocky Mountain Networks To Their Sales Force

Mohawk, a leading manufacturer of fiber optic and copper cable products, is pleased to announce the appointment of Rocky Mountain Networks to Mohawk’s field sales force covering Colorado, Wyoming, and Utah. Rocky Mountain Networks is a professional manufacturer’s representative firm based in Englewood, Colorado. They provide complete sales and marketing services to the Voice/Data, Audio/Video, and Security industries. They strive to provide first-class sales and support their customers, distributors, and principals throughout the Rocky Mountain Region. Mohawk is proud to have such a strong organization as part of our team.

For additional information, Rocky Mountain Networks can be contacted as follows:

About Mohawk
Mohawk, a division of Belden, is headquartered in Leominster, Massachusetts, and has been providing fiber and copper cable innovations for over 50 years. Their headquartered location dedicates 210,000 square feet to today’s most advanced facilities for the design, development and production of copper, fiber optic, and hybrid wire and cable. Mohawk, an ISO 9001 certified company, develops products to meet and support TIA/EIA, ISO/IEC, ICEA and NEMA standards. As part of the global Belden operations, Mohawk is supported with worldwide management, financial resources, and distribution capabilities.

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New Minuteman Extreme Runtime Battery Packs Extend Business-Critical Continuity During Power Outages

Offering companies up to a five time increase in battery runtime for their uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), Para Systems, manufacturer of the comprehensive line of Minuteman power protection solutions, announced the availability of its EXL Series of extreme runtime battery packs for mission critical applications.  The new products are compatible with Minuteman’s Endeavor online and EnterprisePlus line interactive UPS solutions for enterprise IT, security and voice over IP (VoIP) phone systems.

IT managers at small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) are seeking longer battery back-up times for servers, networking devices, data storage, telephone and security systems according to a Frost & Sullivan survey.  “Having a longer time to react when power outages occur has moved from a luxury to a requirement as IT managers handle an increasing number of mission-critical systems and applications,” said Vishal Sapru, energy and power industry analyst for Frost and Sullivan.  “SMBs continue to tell us that they want UPS solutions that offer more battery backup time.”

“When the power fails, businesses are in a vulnerable position that can have a widespread effect across every operational function,” stated Bill Allen, director of marketing for Para Systems.  “When power fails, the phone system goes down and the life-line to customers is cut off.  When networks go down, companies cannot perform vital operational functions.  If a security system goes down, there is no security.  The more reliant businesses become on these systems, the more important it is to keep them up and running during an extended power outage.”

Minuteman has been a pioneer in extended runtime applications for more than 25 years, having been the first company to offer external battery packs with a UPS.  In addition to the new EXL extreme runtime battery pack series, Para Systems offers a wide variety of battery pack options including its XL Series, also compatible with its Endeavor and EnterprisePlus UPS.  For more information on Minuteman’s EXL Series, visit www.minutemanups.com/extrun.  Also visit www.SizeMYUPS.com, the industry’s most extensive on-line UPS selection guide developed by Para Systems.  This easy-to-use tool lists thousands of products from hundreds of manufacturers, allowing the user to configure a system and then determine exactly what Minuteman UPS products best suit their needs and their battery backup time requirements.  Battery backup runtime solutions are listed from the basic 10 to 15 minutes, to 4 hours, 8 hours and beyond.

About Para Systems, Inc.

Para Systems, Inc., based in Carrollton, TX, is a leading provider of power technologies.  The company’s Minuteman brand of comprehensive power protection solutions range from small to large-scale uninterruptible power supply (UPS) products to a full line of unique surge suppressors, power distribution units, and remote power management systems.  Minuteman products protect telephone/VOIP systems, personal computers, network servers and infrastructure peripherals, security systems, and industrial applications. The Minuteman brand of products is sold through a large network of distributors and resellers.  Para Systems in a wholly-owned subsidiary of Components Corporation of America, headquartered in Dallas, TX, whose roots date back to 1916. www.minutemanups.com.

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Omnitron Launches 10 Gigabit Media Converter

Omnitron Systems Technology (www.omnitron-systems.com), a provider of Carrier Ethernet demarcation devices and media converters, today announced the availability of the new iConverter® XG 10 Gigabit media converter.  The iConverter XG is a protocol-transparent media converter with two pluggable transceiver ports designed to simplify fiber connectivity for Ethernet and TDM networks by providing 10 Gigabit media conversion and fiber extension.  The iConverter XG functions as a copper-to-fiber converter, a fiber mode converter, a fiber repeater, and a Wavelength Division Multiplexing (WDM) transponder.  The product supports 100% traffic throughput and has no packet size restrictions. It is protocol transparent within the range of 9.95Gbps to 11.32Gbps, providing interoperability with common protocols including 10G Ethernet, 10G

SONET/SDH, 10G Fiber Channel and 10G OTN (G.709).

Applications for the iConverter XG include connecting 10 Gigabit servers with copper 10GBASE-CX4 interfaces via fiber, and converting standard 10 Gigabit wavelengths to WDM wavelengths to expand the bandwidth of existing fiber infrastructure.

iConverter XG modules are available as self-contained standalone units or chassis plug-in modules.  Three interface configurations of the XG are available, supporting XFP to XFP, XFP to SFP+, and SFP+ to SFP+.  Pluggable XFP and SFP+ transceivers are supported for multimode and single-mode applications, supporting distances up to 80km on single-mode.  Copper to fiber conversion is achieved with CX4 interface XFP transceivers.  Built-in loopback functions, on-board status LEDs and link fault propagation modes facilitate quick troubleshooting diagnostics.  DIP switches documented on the module label enable easy configuration and installation.  The plug-in XG features full management capabilities, including status reporting, fault detection, threshold violations, loopback functionality and SNMP trap notification.

The iConverter XG is part of the iConverter portfolio that consists of modular media converters, CWDM multiplexers and a variety of chassis that provide flexible configurations for high-density and standalone applications. iConverters can be used in managed or unmanaged networks.  iConverter modules can be managed by installing a Network Management Module in the same chassis, and management can be accessed via Omnitron’s NetOutlook® SNMP network management software, third-party SNMP software, or Telnet.

iConverter media converters are covered by a lifetime warranty and 24/7 technical support with no service contract fees.  

For more information about iConverter media converters, CWDM and T1 multiplexers, please visit www.omnitron-systems.com.

About Omnitron Systems Technology, Inc.

Omnitron Systems Technology provides fiber optic connectivity for next-generation enterprise networks, and enables the delivery of managed optical Ethernet services into the infrastructure of service provider networks. For product and reseller information, contact the sales department at Omnitron Systems by phone at 800-675-6410 or 949-250-6510, or by e-mail at sales@omnitron-systems.com. Omnitron Systems is headquartered in Irvine, California.

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Optical Cable Corporation Announces New Line of Fiber Optic Enclosures

Optical Cable Corporation (Nasdaq GM: OCCF) today announced the introduction of its new line of FiberOpticx™ OCO Enclosures designed to offer cost-effective solutions for data and communication cable management.  

Optical Cable’s OCO line of fiber optic enclosures were designed specifically for smaller inside and outside plant uses and are rugged, compact and ideal for quick patching applications.

“Our OCO line of enclosures offer the features you’d expect from larger boxes, yet at a competitive and economical price point,” says Bruce Smith, Product Manager.  The FiberOpticx™ OCO product line was developed by Optical Cable’s SMP Data Communications subsidiary. 

The OCO6N and the OCO12N easily accommodate SMP’s adapter plates, offering up to 12 fiber ports on the OCO6N and up to 24 fiber ports on the OCO12N.  By using SMP’s adapter plates, a multitude of termination configurations in multi-mode or single mode can be achieved.  In addition, the enclosures offer convenient cable storage hoops to assist with proper cable management and fiber bend radius requirements.

The FiberOpticx™ OCO product line comes standard with a tamper resistant fastening system,

is NEMA Type 3 compliant and is backed by a 15-year out-of-the-box warranty. 

Company Information

Founded in 1983, Optical Cable Corporation is headquartered in Roanoke, Virginia with offices and manufacturing and warehouse facilities located both in Roanoke, Virginia and near Asheville, North Carolina.  The Company primarily manufactures its high quality fiber optic cables at its ISO 9001:2000 registered and MIL-STD-790F certified facility located in Roanoke, Virginia and its high quality connectivity products at its ISO 9001:2000 registered facility located near Asheville, North Carolina.

For more about Optical Cable Corporation and SMP Data Communications, visit www.occfiber.com and www.smpdata.com. 

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Optical Cable Corporation Receives Patent for Money Saving Green Solution for Voice and Data Communications

SMP Data Communications, a wholly owned subsidiary of Optical Cable Corporation (Nasdaq GM: OCCF), received a patent on November 11, 2008 for its cost-effective innovation in home data technology that allows the installer to save time and money, while keeping home and business owners ready for the future.

SMP Data Communications’ Dual Axcess^TM product line features a wall plate that provides ports for a standard telephone jack and an Ethernet computer jack supported by a single cable. The jack also includes two additional blank ports that allow for future high-tech options, including home automation, advanced lighting, security systems and smart home upgrades.  

The wall plate connects via standard 5e or 6 cable to a panel installed in a closet or utility room, enabling the use of either hybrid voice and data, or gigabyte Ethernet systems.

Dual Axcess^TM cuts communications cabling and terminations by 50 percent, resulting in reduced labor requirements and reduced stress on both landfills and the world’s dwindling supply of copper.

“It just makes sense. If you use one wire instead of two to do the same job, you are reducing waste, while saving time and money,” said Ian Timmins, SMP Research and Development Engineer, who developed the technology.

The product is also testable with standard cabling test equipment, which is not true for standard twisted pair configurations. Technicians install Dual Axcess^TM as they would a standard Ethernet system with 110 punch downs at panel and outlet. 

“These panels can easily be expanded to include more outlets for voice services,” said Timmins who noted the system also offers broadband 10/100 Internet service or one-gigabyte Internet service, which is ideal for home-based businesses.

In addition, Dual Axcess^TM is a green-initiative product. The technology has received 3 Healthy Built Home Credits from the WNC Green building Council.

“Dual Axcess changes everything in residential communications,” said Bill Reynolds, President of SMP Data Communications and Senior Vice President of Sales, “It is the most creative and innovative new product in residential networking in the last five years. The customer can be assured that the system is reliable, fully standards compliant, meets code and carries an outstanding warranty.”

Every Optical Cable Corporation connectivity product is backed with a 15-year out-of-the-box service warranty, and a 25-year installation warranty when installed by a certified, factory-trained subcontractor.

Company Information

Founded in 1983, Optical Cable Corporation is headquartered in Roanoke, Virginia with offices and manufacturing and warehouse facilities located both in Roanoke, Virginia and near Asheville, North Carolina. The Company primarily manufactures its high quality fiber optic cables at its ISO 9001:2000 registered and MIL-STD-790F certified facility located in Roanoke, Virginia and its high quality connectivity products at its ISO 9001:2000 registered facility located near Asheville, North Carolina.

For more about Optical Cable Corporation and SMP Data Communications, visit www.occfiber.com and www.smpdata.com.

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Up to a Five Time Increase in UPS Battery Back-Up Time

When the power goes out, failure is not an option when it comes to business critical servers, networking devices, data storage, telephony and security systems.  According to Frost & Sullivan, IT managers, particularly at SMBs, are seeking longer battery-back up times.

At BICSI, Para Systems, manufacturer of the Minuteman power protection solutions and the first company to offer external battery packs with a UPS, introduced its EXL Series of extreme runtime battery packs for mission critical applications.  The series offers companies up to a five time increase in battery runtime for their uninterruptible power supplies (UPS).   A white paper on the topic of business critical continuity and the need for longer essential IT and applications uptime will be available soon.

Minuteman has been a pioneer in extended runtime applications for more than 25 years, having been the first company to offer external battery packs with a UPS.  In addition to the new EXL extreme runtime battery pack series, Para Systems offers a wide variety of battery pack options including its XL Series, also compatible with its Endeavor and EnterprisePlus UPS. 

www.minutemanups.com/extrun

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Resource to Help Prevent CO Poisoning

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has developed a new fact sheet that answers such questions as "Do you know how to tell the difference between carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning and the flu?"

According to a Jan. 13 press release, symptoms could be the result of CO poisoning when you feel better when you are away from home or the symptoms occur or get worse shortly after turning on a fuel-burning device or running a vehicle in an attached garage.

Carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas, is the most common cause of poisoning death in the United States. Unintentional CO poisonings are responsible for about 500 deaths and 15,000 visits to the emergency room each year. Carbon monoxide poisoning can be prevented by installing a carbon monoxide alarm, yet less than one-third of homes have them installed.

Everyone is at risk of being poisoned by CO exposure. Older adults with health conditions such as chronic heart disease, anemia, or respiratory problems are even more susceptible. Devices that produce CO include cars, boats, gasoline engines, stoves, and heating systems. CO from these sources can build up in enclosed or semi-enclosed spaces.  http://www.epa.gov/aging/resources/factsheets/pcmp/index.htm

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Signamax - 10/100/1000 Switches, Media Conversion And Premise Connectivity

Signamax has recently introduced several new conversion products including Serial to Fiber Ethernet for PLC environments and more including Video to fiber conversion for analog security camera and other CCTV use and Power over Ethernet switches and media conversion units. These new PoE products allow such applications as IP security cameras or VoIP phone systems to draw their power from the Ethernet cable and work within any existing Ethernet network structure.

Signamax also manufactures a full line of 10/100/1000 managed and unmanaged Ethernet switches and fiber to copper Ethernet media conversion products. Our latest hardened Ethernet switch and conversion products support PoE and speeds up to Gigabit and are designed for use in conditions of temperature extremes from -40°F to 185°F. These products can be used in transportation systems, industrial environments (including mining and utilities) and should always be installed and used with Signamax premise cabling offerings such as patch panels, keystone jacks, fiber and copper patch cords and any other structured cabling items in Cat5e and Cat 6.

Signamax offers pre-sale engineering support on projects spec'ing in the Signamax line and has comprehensive warranty and training programs.

Remember Signamax is a ISO 9001:2000 manufacturing house aligned with the industries best datacomm distribution firms. www.signamax.com

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TEKNOR APEX At Interwire 2009

All RoHS-compliant products, including Apex vinyl compounds, the company's broadest and most widely used range of wire and cable products; FireGUARD low-flame, low-smoke compounds, meeting or exceeding UL requirements pertaining to applications in copper and fiber optic plenum cables used in commercial buildings; Halguard halogen-free, flame retardant, low-smoke compounds; Flexalloy vinyl elastomers for rugged performance under aggressive conditions over a very wide temperature range; and specialty products, including Vidux conductive vinyl, Polydux conductive polyolefin, FreeFlex plasticizer-free vinyl, and custom-formulated compounds based on blends and alloys with nitrile rubber, thermoplastic polyurethane, and other polymers. Latest product introduction prior to Interwire 2009: UV-resistant, antimicrobial FireGUARD compounds for continuous indoor / outdoor optical fiber installations. The wire industry manager for the Vinyl Division is Mike Patel at mpatel@teknorapex.com. Divisional email is vinyl@teknorapex.com.

Elexar  compounds, combining superior electrical properties with flexibility and toughness over a wide temperature range, for flexible cord, coil cord, and robotics and specialty cables, as well as plugs, connectors, and grommets; Telcar TPE blends, with rubber-like feel and physical properties, plus resistance to heat aging and ozone; and Uniprene thermoplastic vulcanizates (TPVs), exhibiting a wide service temperature range and providing the performance, look, and feel of vulcanized rubber. Latest product introduction prior to Interwire 2009: fully RoHS-/REACH-complaint Elexar and Telcar UL-recognized grades that meet UL 94 V-0 and UL-1581 VW-1 flame test requirements. Also new: non-halogen flame-retardant TPE and environmentally "green" compounds. For the TPE Division the industry manager is Phil Scadding at pscadding@teknorapex.com. Divisional email: tpe@teknorapex.com.

Munsell colors that are fully RoHS-compliant in formulations for PVC, plus colors for use with Fireguard low-smoke PVC, polyethylene, EVA, and copolyester elastomer compounds. Latest product introduction prior to Interwire 2009: color concentrates for engineering-grade copolyester TPEs. The wire industry manager for Teknor Color Company is Erik Kalis at ekalis@teknorapex.com. Divisional email: info@teknorcolor.com.

Teknor Apex Company's world headquarters is at 505 Central Avenue, Pawtucket, RI  02861 U.S.A. Tel: 1-401-725-8000. Tel. from U.S. only: 1-800-556-3864. Email: info@teknorapex.com. Visit www.teknorapex.com. Singapore Polymer Corporation: 41 Shipyard Road, Singapore 628134.  Tel: 65-6265-2544.  Fax: 65-6265-1821.  Email: ginfo@spcpl.com.sg. Teknor Apex (Suzhou) Advanced Polymer Compounds Co. Pte Ltd.: (vinyl and TPE compounds: No. 78 Ping Sheng Road, Suzhou Industrial Park, Jiangsu, China 215126. Tel: 86-512-6287-1550. Fax: 86-512-6288-8371. Email: infosuzhou@teknorapex.com. Teknor Apex UK, Ltd.:  Tat Bank Road, Oldbury, West Midlands B69 4NH, UK. Tel: 44-121-665-2105. Fax: 44-121-544-5530. Email: infotauk@teknorapex.com.

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That is “Going Green”, and Why Should I Care?

It has become clear that the United States of America is on a path that will lead to more environmentally sound practices and policies.  In order to compete, the nation must establish business policies that fit in with the rest of the world market.  We as a nation must show that we are willing to give back to the local and global environment and help improve our reputation by showing that we can take a leading position in cleaning up our planet.  The good news is that this is actually a win-win situation.  “Going green” will not only help our businesses by becoming more environmentally friendly; it will also help our businesses financially. This will be done through cost savings and by bringing in a healthier bottom line the form of additional business throughout the world market.

While some types of savings are easily measured, other activities, actions and policies are more difficult to measure. The human element of cost savings can be seen by the reduction of sick days, an increase in production, or the reduction of operational expenses in a “green building”.  When compared against a similar legacy building. With a complete financial analysis, these items can provide significant longterm savings.  By “going green”, we improve our physical environment, our work environment and we reap the benefits of long term financial savings.

What exactly is “Going Green”? 

Going Green is about conducting businesses in an environmentally conscious manner. The goal to increases production and reduces operational expenses. This is a business analysis and decision making processes which is based upon long term financial models. It is the financial analysis that identifies the sustainability of a green solution. The resulting savings can be significant, easily offsetting any initial implementation expense. These are continuous savings that exist throughout the entire building’s lifecycle.

Where did the term “Going Green” Originate?

In 1992, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) launched Energy Star, a voluntary labeling program which is designed to promote and recognize energy-efficiency in monitors, climate control equipment, and other technologies. This resulted in the widespread adoption of sleep mode among consumer electronics. The term "green computing" was probably coined shortly after the Energy Star program began.

How is the Government “Going Green”?

Many governmental agencies have continued to implement standards and regulations that encourage green computing. The Energy Star program was revised in October 2006 to include stricter efficiency requirements for computer equipment, along with a tiered ranking system for approved products. There are currently 26 US States that have established state-wide recycling programs for obsolete computers and consumer electronics equipment.  The statutes either impose a fee for each unit sold at retail (Advance Recovery Fee model), or require the manufacturers to reclaim the equipment at disposal (Producer Responsibility model).

How is the Information Technology industry “Going Green”?

Modern IT systems rely upon a complicated mix of people, networks and hardware; as such, a green computing initiative must be systemic in nature, and address increasingly sophisticated problems. Elements of such as solution may comprise items such as end user satisfaction, management restructuring, regulatory compliance, disposal of electronic waste, telecommuting, virtualization of server resources, energy use, thin client solutions, and return on investment (ROI).

Server virtualization is a green concept that is in all the major publications. Virtualization leverages the power of modern CPU processors. The excess processing power in the modern computer, permits the consolidation of multiple virtual servers into a single unit. This consolidation of servers provides several major benefits. It reduces power consumption, reduces the physical space requirements, reduces cooling costs and initial hardware/software costs. The cost savings of the power alone is significant (1 dollar reduction in CPU power = 3 dollars in total savings when environmental and other equipment are added in. These types of cost savings are easily measured and continuous month after month. This is an easy economic win and the major reason virtualization is so popular.

What other examples are there of “Going Green” in the IT Industry?

One example can be; alternative network topologies. These are standard based designs that can reduce air conditioning requirements, increase useable floor space, and reduce the volume of copper cabling in a building. The elimination of a single air conditioning system saves its capital expenditure and approximately $2000.00 a year. Reducing the size of a telecommunications closet, can increase rentable floor space or make the little space you already have, sufficient. Reducing the copper cabling within a building, improves air circulation, reduces the fuel load above the ceiling (a liability issue), facilitates the removal of abandoned copper cables (NEC 2000 compliance) and can significantly reduces the cost of wiring work areas. There is a lot that can be done, with our IT infrastructure to improve our environment and provide substantial savings.

The type of cable can be a significant ecological consideration. There is an environmentally friendly cable, RoHS compliant, available for use in our buildings. RoHS is the Reduction of Hazardous substances and has many international implementations. It calls for the elimination of lead, mercury and cadmium, hazardous substances found in the existing cabling in our buildings.  Whether a new build, or a retro-fit, the installation of new RoHS compliant cables eliminates a potential future liability.

Teleconferencing, tele-presence, and tele-worker technologies are green computing initiatives. The advantages are many; they increase collaboration, reduce travel, provide staffing flexibility and can increased worker satisfaction. Tele-workers can reduce the overhead expense of office space, heat, lighting, Tele-workers, when reporting to the business can cube share, reserving office space only when its needed. The savings are significant; the average annual energy consumption for U.S. office buildings is over 23 kilowatt hours per square foot, with heat, air conditioning and lighting accounting for 70% of all energy consumed. By evaluating different worker technologies, many types of jobs -- sales, consulting, and field service, call center -- integrate well with these technologies.

Are there any other ways of “Going Green” without affecting equipment?

Power management

Turning off workers computers and other electronic devices at night, can offer huge power savings. While this seems a simple task, getting dept. Managers and employees to shut down their electronic devices is challenging. They generally don’t pay the energy bills. However, implementing an energy charge back systems can provide the motivation to support power conservation. The energy costs savings are substantial.

 Materials recycling

Computer systems that have outlived their particular function can be repurposed, or donated to various charities and non-profit organizations. However, many charities have recently imposed minimum system requirements for donated equipment.  Additionally, parts from outdated systems may be salvaged and recycled through certain retail outlets and municipal or private recycling centers.  Computing supplies, such as printer cartridges, paper, and batteries may be recycled as well.

How can “Going Green”, simplify our processes, improve technical craftsmanship and/or reduce service outages?

A green analysis would also include evaluating our current business processes. We tend to make the same mistakes over and over again. What we find is service outages are often self inflicted from very common sources, such as, cabling congestion, lack of configuration management, or no change control.  The monetary costs associated with a single outage, is always staggering. Simple things like standardizing naming / labeling, configuration management, developing change control processes, and establishing accountability can provide major improvements. The trouble is, we all say we do these things, the reality is we can do them better.

In Summary

“Going green” requires a complete analysis of our IT infrastructure and processes using long term financial models.  The resulting decisions are made with an environmental consideration and cost benefit analysis.  What has been discovered is; the additional costs in building construction and properly implemented systems are quickly offset by the savings. These savings are measured in decades.  “Going green” is about improving our environment and about saving money. When the two activities collaborate, there is a clear winner… you and your business.

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CNS Captures Canada's Top Media Slot For The Cabling Market

Advanced Manufacturing, Green Business, Network Cabling and Workplace were shuttered by CLB Media Inc. last week. The company, which owns more than 20 b-to-b publications, discontinued the titles in order to focus resources and cut back on costs, according to Niel Hiscox, vice president of publishing, media. Two people—an editor and a junior salesperson—were laid off as a result of the closures. One art department position that was unfilled will remain so.

Network Cabling Magazine concedes to Cabling Networking Systems Magazine
While cabling was once a narrow enough business to build a magazine around, "we really found that a lot of our other books were touching in this area and the traditional cabling market was becoming a small part of the concerns for the players in it,” Hiscox said

Cabling Networking Systems Magazine’s Publisher (Maureen Levy) and Editor (Paul Barker) said that their publication is 100% focused on the task of digging out the important issues and hot products and services in the very vital cabling industry. Their findings at the recent BICSI annual conference supported an optimistic view of business opportunities for continued growth in the “Intelligent Building” trend. www.cnsmagazine.com 

Automation, Security, and System Integration and NET ZERO Building designs are areas that continue to show healthy growth despite gloomy global economic conditions.  www.caba.org

ACUTA