For: www.wireville.com
"Heard On The Street" Column
Issue: June 2005
By: Frank Bisbee

BISBEE's BUZZ

BICSI's Spring Conference and Networld + Interop were both excellent events for the communications industry professionals.  BICSI boasted a record-breaking turnout of more than 4,200 attendees… and the exhibitors were all smiles.  The presentations were top notch and actually could compete with the Las Vegas distractions.  Networld + Interop was filled with a bonanza of technical miracles.  Many of the vendors exhibiting at this venue offered a glimpse into the next decade of possibilities.  The overall impact was phenomenal.  A comment overheard on the floor in the exhibit hall said it all: "Who would have ever dreamed we would be at 10G on copper."  What's next?

We had the opportunity to see the entire array of capabilities from Fluke Networks at Networld + Interop.  We were impressed by the amazing capability of the full family of products from Fluke Networks.  All of these systems were functionalized in a massive working network.  The representatives of Computer Associates explained the augmented capabilities of their software systems in combination with Fluke Networks.

In one portion of the booth, Fluke Networks displayed datacom tools for copper and fiber.  At the other eight stations, the focus was on network analysis and management.  A new portable network analysis tool, NetTool VoIP, showed how to quickly test communication between devices, including a switch and a VoIP phone.

Interop's Event Network (eNet) is one of the largest mobile civilian networks in the world, with more than 90 switches, 3,500 devices, and 12,000 nodes, providing connectivity to more than 375 Interop exhibitors, conference rooms, and meeting rooms, and serving over 17,500 attendees.  In addition to testing every drop in the net, Fluke Networks was the Distributed Analysis and Monitoring supplier for eNet.  FNET's SuperVision Console was deployed in the Network Operations Center (NOC), where it gathered data from 25 remote Fluke Networks' Workgroup Analyzers distributed throughout the show floor and meeting rooms.

During the show Fluke Networks announced product integrations with Computer Associates.  FNET's OptiView Integrated Network Analyzer teamed with CA's Unicenter Network and Systems Management to monitor the entire event network.  Unicenter provided high-level information for layers 2-5, while OptiView INA diagnosed layer 1 issues.  Many time problems could be corrected before users noticed anything was wrong.  CA's Help Desk program was teamed with Fluke Networks' EtherScope Assistant to remotely receive, resolve and close trouble tickets while the show was running. 

Any network administrator that has not had the opportunity to see this fully functional systems solution is really missing out. 

BICSI is definitely evolving into an organization with a much broader view than just cabling. There are many issues and products fighting for market validation.  For example: fiber, copper, wireless, VOIP, security, safety, environmental, and then bringing them all together.  Adding the issue of dealing with communications on a global scale, we must consider the rules of the road (codes and standards) where the applications are installed.  The rules in other countries may vary greatly from the US.

The world of automated building systems is pulling the infrastructure industry into the world of commercial real estate.  Names like BOMA, NAIOP, NECA, CABA, ACUTA, AFCOM, and a myriad of other organizations are gravitating to the world of IBS (Integrated Building Systems).  Smart buildings are an imperative to remain competitive in the future.  There are so many advantages to this design concept that many companies are already considering how to capture the value through systems integration and automation.  

I have a personal agenda: "Safety Is Too Important To Ignore".  In all of our efforts to build the communications infrastructure of the future, we should weave the safety issues into the fabric of our designs.  Lives and health are too expensive to contemplate otherwise. 

But that’s just my opinion

Frank Bisbee
Heard On The Street" column
www.wireville.com
Jacksonville, FL(904) 645-9077
frank@wireville.com

More Than 85,000 Specifiers Get A New Hammer

There are periods where the codes and standards are relatively stable and the answers are universally available.  Today we face a changing communications world.  The standards are struggling to keep up with the technological advances.  The codes are also going through changes that affect the communications cabling industry.  Who ya gonna call?  Ghost Busters?  I don't think so.

At the BICSI Spring Conference we had the privilege to get the full scoop on a set of solutions to meet the challenges of a constantly changing environment for the specifier. 

We interviewed Bob Weiland, Graybar Commercial Market Manager about their new improved consultants and specifier’s service, Graybar VIP Design Online™.  This is the first web-based multi-vendor structured cabling design and budgeting tool.  The VIP Design Online™ tool may provide a 25 percent or greater increase in productivity with fewer errors.  Seasoned veterans of the specification world already know that even simple errors can result in huge problems.  We think this tool offers a better barrier to errors than anything we have seen in years.  The system allows the consultant or the contractor who is fulfilling the role of specifier to provide a higher level of accuracy and extremely professional image to their package. 

At one time or another, many specifiers and bidders have found their designs in the hands of the competition.  It happens.  This Graybar VIP Design Online™ service is unique in its offering and its individual security capability.  No one else has access to your designs in the VIP Design Online™ program.  www.graybar.com/vip.

Design Online’s simple point-and-click interface provides Graybar’s authorized consultants with the ability to let the market know them, their company, their reputation and their level of accuracy with a precise professional specification. This tool also allows the user to save on the time it takes to design, configure and budget structured cabling projects while reducing errors. For the first time within a Web-based design and budgeting tool, consultants will have access to a centralized repository of more than 8,000 data communications products and their prices. Included in the database are 15 interoperable cabling and connectivity product lines proven to exceed industry standards by the Graybar Verified Independently for Performance testing program. Consultants have the ability to manage multiple projects through the interface.

Design Online weaves together current content on data communications products with their proper configurations. This software was developed leveraging the eXalt Solutions software platform. Graybar selected eXalt Solutions because of its unique capabilities in building solution designs with technical products and dynamically creating complex bills of material, graphics, budgets and reports.

“The eXalt offering is truly unique – we have not seen any other software suited for the needs of our consultant partners. With Design Online, a consultant can assemble a VIP design in a fraction of the time with more accuracy than using conventional methods. We are excited to offer this leading-edge technology while extending VIP’s leadership position,” explained Graybar Commercial Market Manager Bob Weiland.

“Design Online was a perfect fit for our software platform,” stated eXalt Solutions President Leslie Swanson. Consultants can focus on what they do best – design – while removing the unnecessary clerical spreadsheet entry and phone work in the budgeting process to dramatically shorten project design times.”

Consultant Mike Keeling, President of Data Site Consortium, Inc. said, “Having reviewed the Beta version of Design Online, I am looking forward to using its capabilities to respond better and quicker to my clients’ cabling and connectivity needs. The site is intuitive to use, and its ability to save all related project information makes it truly an effective tool.”

Graybar VIP Design Online

One-Stop Shopping Provides Up-to-Date, Multi-Vendor Structured Cabling Product Data: For the first time, consultants can access multi-vendor structured cabling solutions and pricing in one convenient location. Gone is the time-consuming process of searching multiple Web sites and catalogs. The Web-based configurator houses the most current data on Graybar VIP cabling and connectivity products. Included are racks and cabinets for structured cabling design, budget and bill of material creation “on the fly.”

Self-Service Environment Enhances Productivity and Customer Confidentiality Rather than wasting time calling, faxing and e-mailing distributors and contractors, consultants can access pricing and product information online without delay. This also helps keep projects under wraps.

Templates Streamline Bill of Material Development: Consultants can choose from hundreds of ready-made templates to build material lists. Using templates is faster and more accurate than copying and pasting data into spreadsheets.

Online Visual Dramatically Accelerates Approval Process: With the dynamic graphic interface, consultants can show clients their design earlier and online. This may shorten the typical project timeframe from start to finish by more than 50 percent.

Design and Budget Updates Happen Instantaneously During Client Collaboration: As consultants design, the system generates a bill of material and budget reports at the same time. Updates happen instantly during project design sessions with clients.

“Goof-proof” Configurator Eliminates Design and Budget Errors: Now it is virtually impossible for consultants to “design in” mistakes. Budget-based rules monitor rack-space consumption and faceplate port allocation to ensure more accurate designs and budgets.

Powerful Search with Rich Repository of Product Content and Reference Materials: Consultants can find the right part quickly without having to navigate through dozens of screens of useless data. Powerful parametric search capabilities make it possible. Drawings and reference materials are available in an instant.

About Graybar
Graybar, a Fortune 500 corporation and one of the largest employee-owned companies in North America, is a leader in the distribution of high quality electrical, telecommunications and networking products, and an expert provider of related supply chain management and logistics services. Through its network of more than 250 North American distribution facilities, it stocks and sells products from thousands of manufacturers, serving as the vital link to hundreds of thousands of customers.  www.graybar.com     1-800-GRAYBAR

Electrical Contractor Magazine Focuses on Safety In Their May 2005 Issue

The May 2005 issue of Electrical Contractor Magazine is about SAFETY.  The President's message reminds the reader that May is National Electrical Safety Month.  NECA (www.necanet.org) has been a proud co-sponsor of the Electrical Safety Foundation International's efforts to increase public awareness of the hazards of electricity ever since the annual observance was inaugurated many years ago.  We laud the NECA organization and the contractors who use this special opportunity to share the information provided through http://electrical-safety.org. 

Safety is a pertinent topic for electrical and communications contractors.  Contractors deal with OSHA, workers' compensation, and other safety issues.  The big change is in the revision to NFPA 70E.  The standard has been around for 25 years, but its effect on the industry will be felt more strongly now because of the revision.  If you don't have this issue, the May issue of Electrical Contractor Magazine will be posted online in a couple of weeks.  The June 2005 issue will likewise be a blockbuster, packed with valuable information for the reader. 

No matter how much is written about Fire Stopping, this important safety issue is often neglected or improperly installed. Installers of firestopping systems should have verifiable training in order to insure the systems are installed to meet the safety and code requirements.  One place that any contractor can get a training package for firestopping installation, at no charge, is www.uniquefirestop.com.  In the May 2005 issue, Fire Stopping - What Every Contractor Needs To Know, by Wayne D. Moore is an outstanding article that summarizes these challenges as well as we have ever seen.  Read it, learn it, and practice it.  Safety is too important to ignore.  

Speaking of safety, this month you can add your voice to the safety process.  Don’t let the big corporations and their shills rule the outcome of the NEC (National Electrical Code) revisions with their commercial agendas.  NFPA members (of more than 6 months) can vote on the open floor and address their comments to the membership on important issues.  In a way, June is safety month also.  NFPA World Safety Conference & Exposition® Las Vegas, NV June 6-10, 2005 Mandalay Bay Resort & Convention Center.   www.nfpa.org

Electrical Contractor, the No. 1 trade publication in the electrical contracting industry, now offers advertisers the only in-depth reader profile in its category. Published by the National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) on their website www.ecmag.com , Electrical Contractor’s “2004 Electrical Contractor Profile Study” pinpoints management gender, race and age diversity, brand specification, customer hobbies, education, work area trends, growing revenue sources and more.

“Our reader profile now offers advertisers in our category the only, complete picture of the electrical contracting industry,” said Electrical Contractor Publisher John Maisel. “To increase its value, this year’s study details new reader specifics to increase customer knowledge, and become a more highly effective revenue tool,” he said.

Conducted earlier this year by postal mail and the first time via the Internet, the study generated 865 usable surveys among its subscribers. The majority of the surveyed contracting firms are small in terms of their revenue and their number of employees: 62 percent have between one and nine employees, and 71 percent have annual revenues of less than $1 million. As an incentive to participate, Electrical Contractor contributed $5 to charity for each completed survey.

First, in this report, the survey examined the downtime for electrical contractors. Widening potential ad revenue from non-trade products and services, home improvement topped the list, with 59 percent of those surveyed reporting they like to work around the house in their spare time. Travel came in second at 51 percent. In third place, 39 percent of contractors chose hunting and fishing as their favorite outdoor activities. Watching sports came in fourth, music and theater placed fifth and woodworking came in sixth. Playing golf ranked seventh, followed by an interest in classic/antique cars, playing sports, cooking and wine and auto racing.

Specifying Brands, Purchasing Sources / Habits, Computer Use
On average, contractors specify a single brand about 20 percent of the time, and far more common among firms with one to nine employees than among larger firms. In all other cases, other factors include multiple brands, “or equal to,” or performance specified.

Brand discretion was another, key area. Overall, the survey shows that contractors decide the brand chosen more than 70 percent of the time. Contractors have the highest level of brand selection in smaller firms, and somewhat less input in larger firms.

Not surprisingly, electrical distributors account for the lion’s share of installation dollars. Although warehouse home centers are a distant second, they account for a relatively small percentage of spending firms with 20 or more employees. Almost all of the contractors buy from multiple sources, and the number of channels grows with firm size.

Firms with one to nine employees are more likely than average to utilize two outlets, while firms with 20-99 or 100+ employees are more likely than average to use all four of the channels included in the survey (possibly due to larger companies having locations in more places and involved in more different types of work). Additionally, firms with 100+ employees spend more of their total purchase dollar online.

Larger firms (20-99 or 100+ employees) are both more likely to use computers in multiple ways, and to cite each particular use compared with firms with one to nine employees. From highest to lowest, computer use comprises: Internet access/e-mail, word processing, accounting/payroll, estimating, job cost control/analysis, scheduling service work/logistics, CAD, equipment/tool inventory control, project collaboration (with other companies) and fleet management.

Work Trends: Type, Volume
On average, 50 percent of respondents said that their firm had worked in eight ore more of 17 listed 17 project types. Traditional power/lighting projects were mentioned most frequently by about 80 percent to 90 percent; backup power and communications/data systems were cited by 60 percent; fire/life safety systems were cited by almost half; energy management/power quality and two types of security formed the next tier at 30 to 40 percent; fiber optics (datacom and lighting) and/or wireless networks were mentioned by 20 to 30 percent, and alternative energy and biometrics were mentioned least often, by less than 10 percent.

Regardless of the types of work they performed in 2003, respondents estimated how they expect their firm’s future volume of work in each area to change over the next, few years. Among category participants, larger firms (20+ employees) are most likely to predict increases across almost all of the categories. Among category non-participants, firms with one to nine employees predict future growth in backup power, communications/data systems and fiber optics (datacom and lighting) work. In contrast, firms with 100+ employees are more likely than average to predict future growth in fuel cells and wind generation.

Revenue Sources / Company Sales
Although the respondents’ firms are involved in all construction sectors, 40 percent of their revenue comes from new construction, with approximately 30 percent each from modernization/retrofit or maintenance/service/repair; however, maintenance/service/repair plays a greater role to smaller firms (one to nine employees) while new construction plays a proportionally greater role as firm size (number of employees) increases.

Respondents confirmed that electrical power distribution accounts for the largest percent of company sales. Security and life safety work accounts for a greater percentage of revenue as company size increases. Firms with 10-19 employees report that total building automation accounts for more revenue than among companies of any, other size.

Across the total sample, contractors get more of their business from CII (commercial, industrial, institutional and public places) than from residential projects. Non-building projects (airports, highway, power lines and other) account for about six percent of the contractor business.

Dramatic differences occur in the types of work performed by larger vs. smaller firms. Residential construction accounts for a much greater proportion of work among smaller companies (one to nine employees), while CII projects account for more of the work of larger firms. Non-building work is much more prevalent in large firms. Overall, almost half (approximately 46 percent) of contractors’ revenue comes from design/build work (and particularly important to firms with one to nine employees).

Gender and Age Trends
Regarding gender, the non-clerical jobs—particularly journeymen electricians—are overwhelmingly male. While 42 percent of contracting firms employ women, however, almost three in 10 firms (28 percent) have female employees that are not clerical. Firms with non-clerical female employees are more likely to be mid-sized: those with 20+ employees and/or those with revenues in excess of $1 million. The next, largest percentage of women are executives (owners and proprietors).

Revealing that younger contractors are not yet filling the pipeline, 60 percent are between the ages of 35 and 54, with 83 percent between the ages of 35 and 64 (regardless of company size). Across the total sample, the contractors average 48.6 years and have been in the contracting industry an average of 24.6 years. 

The Electrical Contractor Magazine has definitely got the goods.  www.ecmag.com 

Beast introduces the Wirewolf and the Claw at BICSI Conference in Vegas

Beast Cabling Systems (Arlington, VA) has released new enhancements for the Beast, the company's flagship portable system that separates, organizes and labels cable off the reel.  To you non-installer types, this may be a dry subject.  However, to the contractors and installers that actually handle these complex cable installations, this is a very sexy subject. 

At the BICSI Spring Conference in Las Vegas, we spoke with one of the top rated experts in cable installation.  Bruce Nardone, BICSI Master Instructor, told us that training and the right tools are essential to delivering the quality and bringing the job in "on time and under budget".  Bruce said that he has thoroughly reviewed the new Beast Cabling System technology. He is confident that it will contribute a significant level of capabilities to the installation process and end result.  "The BICSI training together with the right tools equals a very powerful competitive edge".    www.bicsi.org

The Beast Cabling System enables the pulling of up to 48 cables from individual reels into cable pathways, which conserves time and materials, reduces errors and ensures uniform installation practices.

Both new additions from the Arlington, VA firm, include The Wirewolf, which mounts in front of the Beast and provides a quick way to sort and organize cable for termination on patch panels or blocks.

"The process of pulling cable normally includes back-feeding disorganized batches of cable to the closet, where you face the time-consuming task of sorting cables for termination," said Greg Bramham, Beast's vice-president of business development.

The other new addition is The Claw, which reduces the common problems of twisted or damaged cable and broken lead strings during cable pulling.

One contractor, that we talked to after they had seen the live demonstration for this system, told us that this tool could increase their profits by saving time.  Also the Beast Cabling System could give their installers a major boost in tackling the craft intensive requirements of handling fiber and copper at the new high performance levels including the 10G arena.  "Doing it right… the first time" saves hours of chasing ghosts when the tester results give you that nightmarish screen that says, "FAIL".   www.beastcablingsystems.com

Graybar Announces "Enable the Cable^SM"

Graybar, the nation’s leading distributor of communications and electrical products and related supply chain management and logistics services, announces "Enable the Cable^SM".  This educational program is designed to help network architects, designers, contractors and technicians understand and leverage the value UTP cable brings to the construction of all building sub-systems or networks.  Graybar provided more " Enable the Cable" information on Sunday, May 1, during the Spring BICSI Conference at the Mirage Hotel, Las Vegas, NV.  Technology experts and engineers answered questions and assisted with technology implementation.

“Traditionally we wire buildings using two four-pair cables terminated eighteen inches above the floor as outlined in the cabling standards documents,“ said Karl Griffith, director, reseller markets, Graybar.  “We can no longer think of UTP cables solely for voice and data transmission.  UTP can also be used for application-dependent building services dedicated to a specific purpose.”

Building sub-systems, including security, physical access, lighting control and building automation, are a mixture of analog and digital technologies communicating via multiple protocols over individual, isolated networks.  These sub-systems are migrating into an integrated IP network carrying specialized building protocols encapsulated into IP packets.  The monitoring and management of these new networks will soon become the function of the building Information Technology (IT) Center. 

Initially, "Enable the Cable" will demonstrate the use of UTP cables in the CCTV environment.  Analog CCTV cameras can be wired easily with UTP cable at twice the recommended distance outlined in TIA/EIA-568-B while maintaining signal integrity.  UTP cables can terminate on CCTV cameras in ceilings and high on walls to meet the needs of the building owner.  Graybar has partnered with Berk-Tek, NVT and Pelco to develop the Enable the Cable architecture for CCTV camera installations.

“It is our plan to expand the Enable the Cable program to address the construction of other building networks,” said Karl Griffith.  “Regardless of the technology, networks constructed of high-quality Category 5e or Category 6 UTP cables can serve the building owner well into the future with a solid migration path to a complete IP building system network.”  www.graybar.com.

CABA Invites You To Attend One Of Its BIQ Ranking Systems Workshops

CABA invites you to attend one of its BIQ Ranking Systems workshops (Intelligent Building Ranking Systems), being held at Realcomm 2005, in Anaheim, CA.

The BIQ Ranking System is an evaluation/assessment protocol and a guide for integrating intelligent building technologies. The aim of an affordable and easy to use online Intelligent Building ranking tool is to increase market penetrability of Intelligent Building technology with building owners, operators, managers and designers by demonstrating value and providing guidance.

Workshop #1: Sunday, June 26; 3.00 pm – 5.00 pm, Grand Californian Hotel; or
Workshop #2: Wednesday, June 29; 9.00 am – 12.00 noon, Grand Californian Hotel

Agenda:
--Introduction to CABA and IIBC Task Force Efforts.
--Presentation on the CABA efforts to Date on the BIQ.
--Solicit and Review New Technology Additions to BIQ Criteria.
--Building Assessment Tools and Ranking Methods Discussion.
--Demonstrate Green Globe BETA CABA BIQ Questionnaire. 
--BIQ Report Review and Attribute Trade Off Exercise.
--Discussion, BIQ User Sign Up and Survey Completion.

Cost: $275. US (CABA members save $25.)  Cost includes the workshop, reception and 1 free BIQ Ranking (valued at $700. US and is valid for 1 year).

To register, link to: https://www.caba.org/estore/index.html, and click on Purchase CABA Products then Workshops.  In order to take advantage of your CABA member discount, you must first log into the Research Library/Members Lounge.  Contact David Dern at 613.993.6760, or by email: dern@caba.org if you need assistance.

While at Realcomm 2005, take advantage of the Intelligent Building sessions, being held in conjunction with CABA’s CONNECT 2005.

Save $100 when you register for Realcomm 2005 (http://www.realcomm.com/anaheim.htm) using CABA’s discount code: RC05CABA1.

INDUSTRY LEADERS HONORED AT 2005 NAED ANNUAL MEETING

The National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED) honored four industry leaders at the Opening General Session of NAED’s Annual Meeting on Monday, May 16, 2005, at the Boston Marriott Copley, in Boston, Mass.

David H. Crum, CEO of Crum Electric Supply Co., Inc., Casper, Wyo., received NAED’s highest honor, the 2005 NAED Arthur W. Hooper Award, which is presented to an individual who has led an exceptional career in electrical distribution spanning many years.

Crum was one of the first industry leaders to recognize and promote the importance of technology in developing the electrical industry’s electronic commerce infrastructure. He led the creation of several e-commerce initiatives during his term as NAED chairman and was instrumental in founding the Industry Data Exchange Association (IDEA) in 1999 to manage the flow of data through the distribution channel.

During his 34 years in the industry, Crum has been active in NAED, serving as Western Region vice president (1992-94), NAED Foundation Board of Directors (1995-97), NAED Chairman of the Board of Directors (1996-97), and IDEA Chairman of the Board (1998-2000). Crum has also been honored with NAED’s Western Region Distributor of the Year (1996) and NAED Distinguished Service Award (1999). He was also the first distributor to receive the National Electrical Manufacturers Association’s Kite & Key Award in 1998. Crum was also named Wyoming’s “Small Business Person of the Year” in 1982.

Stuart M. Irby, president of Stuart C. Irby Company, Jackson, Miss., received the 2005 NAED Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes outstanding and dedicated service to the association and the electrical distribution industry.

As the third-generation in his family’s business, Irby has led his company from $35 million in revenue to $380 million, from 9 branches to 33, and from 232 employees to 664. During his 27 years in the electrical distribution industry, Irby has served the industry in a variety of ways. His company was one of the founders of IDEA, and Irby has consistently been a champion of the initiative throughout its development. He was IDEA Chairman of the Board (2002-2004), IDEA Vice-Chair (2000-2002) and IDEA Director (1997 – 2001). In addition, Irby also has participated as a member of the NAED Foundation’s Channel Advantage Partnership council (2004 – present), NAED Board of Directors member (2002-2004), NAED Membership Committee member (1991) and NAED area chairman (1988)., Irby is also active in his community as a volunteer on the boards of numerous organizations including a local college, leadership development organizations, Chamber of Commerce, the symphony, YMCA, Civic Club and church.

Edwin Kanner, chairman emeritus of American Insulated Wire Corp./A Leviton Company was presented with the 2005 NAED Award of Merit, which recognizes an associate company or individual that has been exceptionally active in promoting and supporting the tenets and goals of NAED.

Over the past 51 years, Kanner has actively encouraged communication and cooperation between manufacturers and distributors. He has supported NAED throughout his career, as well as serving on the NEMA board of governors twice, most recently from 1999 to 2001. Kanner has also received several awards for his ardent support of the manufacturing network and electrical distribution industry, including the NEMA Kite & Key Award, Scott Award, GEM Award and NEMRA Preston Award.

Francis Piscitelli, senior vice president of sales and service for OSRAM SYLVANIA was presented with the 2005 NAED Associate Award. The award honors an individual in the electrical manufacturing business who has been exceptionally active in promoting wholesale distribution as the best channel of electrical products and services.

During his more than 30 years in the industry, Piscitelli has served the industry in a variety of areas, including the NAED Manufacturing Advisory Council and, most recently, as the chair of the NAED Manufacturer Special Pricing Authorizations (SPA) Task Force. Throughout NAED’s initiative to improve SPA process efficiencies, he has devoted significant time to the effort, including speaking at the regional conferences. In addition, he is a board member of the Home Safety Council, Affiliated Distributors’ Electrical Supplier Advisory Council and the Siemens Sales and Marketing Advisory Council.  www.naed.org

What a Great Week of Discovery

 By: Mike Holt

I have spend the past 20 years researching and testing the concepts of what others have written as it relates to Grounding. I have found that much of what I learned about grounding is not really accurate, at least not in relationship to premises wiring within the scope of the National Electrical Code.

This weekend I made lots of new discoveries based on some old historical papers that I received. I think I found the origination of the 25 ohm resistance for a ground rod, why a 6 AWG wire is used for a ground rod, and about where this concept of zero reference might have originated. By the way, the resistance of 8 AWG run seven miles at 25C is 24.64 ohms.

"Transactions of the American Institute of Electrical Engineers", "EARTH WIRES OR THE EARTH AS AN ELECTRIC COMPLETER."

Oh yea, Thomas A. Edison was heavily involved with the telegraphic system (before the light bulb), and he invented the fire alarm mechanism and signaling apparatus http://invention.smithsonian.org/resources/fa_wu_container12.aspx.

Now the plot thickens… the Telegraphic industry uses the earth as a return conductor and Edison is involved in the Telegraphic industry. According to a good buddy of mine (Don Zipse), when Thomas Alva Edison started his electric illuminating company and began the electrical distribution system, he used the earth for the return conductor. This uncontrolled flow of electric current over the earth resulted in shocking horses and his employees as they dug along side of the underground distribution system. Horse pulled traction companies' employees working on the tracks received electric shocks, especially when separating the track joints.

In addition, based on original Ralph Lee (great engineer) writing, I figured out what the Code means about 'stabilize system voltage to earth during normal operation [250.4(A)(1)]. I'm so glad because nobody I know what this mean anyway. By the way it has to do with electric utilities and ungrounded systems, with miles and miles of overhead conductors, not premises wiring! So basically it's irreverent.

Unrelated to all of this, but just important (at least to me), I also figured out how a ground rod (earthing) could be used to reduce voltage on the metal case of a transformer that was installed in the 1890's. So basically grounding (earthing) the case of a metal transformer is just something we do based on conditions from over 100 years ago that don't apply today.

Then in the middle of the night, I figured out how placing a ground wire (connected to a ground rod) in a plastic animal water trough could be used to reduce voltage in the water so that the animals would drink it!

But basically for today's grounding (earthing, such as driving a ground rod) still doesn't do anything we (or at least I) thought it did to make anything safe in a home, establish a zero reference, or any of the other myths we carry on http://www.mikeholt.com/mhgvb 

I’m currently working on a new book that probably will be titled Grounding Theory and the Real History of Grounding. It will be out in time for my Grounding versus Bonding seminars this fall http://www.mikeholt.com/seminarnew.php?id=2005#October

OptiView Link Analyzer and Protocol Expert Win Award

Fluke Networks today announced that its OptiView Link Analyzer network monitoring device, combined with Protocol Expert Plus software, has been named winner for a 2005 Well-Connected Award in the category of Gigabit Analyzer Probe by CMP Media LLC's Network Computing magazine.   Optiview Link Analyzer provides real-time analysis and line rate packet capture for full duplex Gigabit Ethernet links. This capability is a necessity for organizations that need to troubleshoot critical centralized applications.

"Being a winner of Network Computing's Annual Well-Connected Awards illustrates how OptiView Link Analyzer has proven itself as an effective application monitoring and troubleshooting tool for many of our largest enterprise customers," said Robert Finlay, Fluke Networks Product Manager. "We're happy to see our product recognized for its ability to provide accurate timing and traffic analysis."

This year, the winners of the Network Computing Well-Connected Awards were honored at a gala event held on the first evening of one of the industry's largest trade shows, NetWorld+Interop 2005 Las Vegas. All winners were highlighted in the April 28th issue of Network Computing and also on Network Computing Online at www.networkcomputing.com.

The OptiView Link Analyzer remotely monitors and captures traffic, at full line rate, on full-duplex Gigabit Ethernet links, to provide accurate application timing and traffic analysis. Designed for network management staff in the IT operation center, the OptiView Link Analyzer works with OptiViewtm Protocol Expert and OptiViewtm Console to provide full visibility of traffic on high performance, switched Ethernet links.

OptiView Protocol Expert Plus is a scalable protocol analysis and monitoring solution for network field service staff and core data center engineers. Its VoIP option allows real-time, passive VoIP quality of service analysis. 

"For the 11th year in a row, Network Computing is recognizing the most outstanding tech products and services in the networking and IT world in our Well-Connected award April 28th issue," says Mike Lee, editor of Network Computing magazine.  "The awards are a snapshot in time, the best of what we evaluated over 12 months in our Real-World Labs -- more than 134 finalists in more than 44 categories were named. The winners were announced in our April 28th issue."

www.networkcomputing.com    www.flukenetworks.com 

BICSI Receives Donation of Beast™ Cabling System

Beast Cabling Systems, innovator of systems and processes that result in more efficient and more durable installation of cable, announced that it has donated a complete Beast™ system to BICSI for use in BICSI’s Tampa-based training facility. The donation is valued at more than $15,000.

If you were fortunate enough to attend the BICSI Spring Conference and Expo you may have seen the booth for Beast Cabling Systems.  This booth had an almost continual live demonstration of the new technology for the Beast Cabling System products including the Wirewolf and the Claw.  Several of the contractors who watched the demonstration commented on how they could use this system to increase profitability and job quality.  The preliminary numbers using this system are impressive.  

The Beast is a portable system that separates, organizes, and labels all types of structured cable off the reel. The system enables pulling of up to 48 cables from individual reels into cable pathways, conserving time and materials, reducing errors, and ensuring uniform installation practices for any crew on any job.

“We believe the process of pulling cable using the Beast represents the next-step in how all contractors will install structured cable in the future,” said Greg Bramham, Vice President of Business Development. “We know BICSI offers its students the most complete and up-to-date training available and were pleased that BICSI has accepted this donation for use in its training classes,” he said.

BICSI, the not-for-profit association dedicated to promoting excellence in the Information Transport Systems (ITS) industry, accepts donations of cable, connectors, tools and other products and services to enhance its training and world-class training facility in Tampa. Accepting the Beast for use in the classroom represents BICSI’s continued focus on bringing the latest practices to students and to the entire industry.

“It is important that we keep our members and other students aware of new tools, technologies, and processes that can help them be more efficient in their business,” said Patricia A. Boyland, Director of Professional Development and Credentialing for BICSI. “Donations such as the Beast ensure that BICSI maintains its leadership position as a provider of standards-based, vendor-neutral training for cabling professionals working in the Information Transport Systems business,” Ms. Boyland said. www.beastcablingsystems.com  - www.bicsi.org

ADC Introduces New TrueNet Midspan Power-over-Ethernet Controllers

ADC (NASDAQ: ADCT; today introduced new TrueNet® Midspan Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) Controllers featuring dual compliance with IEEE 802.3af and legacy Voice-over-IP (VoIP) devices as well as optional N+1 redundant powering capabilities. ADC will showcase these solutions at BICSI Spring Conference in Las Vegas, May 2-5, in booth #720/722 and at NetWorld+Interop 2005 in Las Vegas, May 3-5, in booth #839. 

ADC's TrueNet Midspan PoE Controllers allow enterprise network managers to power VoIP phones, WiFi access points, IP security cameras, and other devices without upgrading or replacing Ethernet switches and structured cabling.

The product's newest features accelerate VoIP deployment by overcoming significant powering obstacles traditionally faced by enterprise network managers: standards compatibility and redundant powering.

"Before IEEE 802.3af standards, leading manufacturers developed VoIP telephones with various proprietary standards for line powering over Ethernet cabling," said John Schmidt, product manager for ADC. "ADC's TrueNet Midspan PoE Controllers automatically detect the presence of legacy VoIP devices and inject appropriate power, enabling enterprise network managers to efficiently deploy VoIP services."

At NetWorld+Interop, ADC will conduct a live demonstration of the product's dual compatibility features by powering a legacy Cisco® 7960 IP Phone and an IEEE 802.3af compliant Cisco 7971G-GE phone via a single TrueNet Midspan PoE Controller.

To support lifeline telephony requirements, ADC's TrueNet Midspan PoE Controllers feature field upgradeable N+1 redundant powering capabilities. Delivering up to 15.4 Watts of power per port and featuring redundant and load sharing 400-watt power supplies, the controllers ensure consistent fault-free powering for critical voice circuits. The redundant power supplies may be field upgraded and up to five panels can be daisy-chained and controlled via one modular SNMP card and a single IP address.  www.adc.com/truenet  www.adc.com

Fluke Networks Announces Partnership with Ipswitch, Inc. to Offer New Network Management Solutions

Fluke Networks, a provider of innovative solutions for the testing, monitoring and analysis of enterprise and telecommunications networks, today announced it has entered a partnership with Ipswitch, Inc., a leading developer of network management, messaging and file transfer solutions, to produce a unique real-time solution for network administrators who need a powerful proactive and reactive solution to network problem identification and resolution.

The combination of Key Device Watch, based on Ipswitch's popular WhatsUp® network monitoring program, with Fluke Networks' portable network test solutions provides a streamlined approach to network monitoring and troubleshooting. Key Device Watch proactively monitors and identifies any problems on a network on a 24/7 basis. Fluke Networks' LinkRunner and NetTool can troubleshoot an identified problem area with instant information about the connectivity and performance of the network.

Lisa Schwartz, Fluke Networks Business Development Manager, stated that Ipswitch's compatibility with Fluke Networks' NetTool Inline Network Tester will extend the troubleshooting needs of technicians. "We are pleased to be an integral part of the NetTool Key Device Watch bundle. This partnership will help our customers attain increased visibility to network monitoring and troubleshooting," said Schwartz.

"We are excited to partner with Fluke Networks to provide the market with cutting-edge solutions to isolate network problems and fix them faster than ever before," said Alex Neihaus, Vice President of Marketing at Ipswitch. "As networks grow and become more complex, the administrator's ability to identify and address issues becomes even more important. Our partnership with Fluke Networks allows us to combine our strengths with theirs to deliver a unique, high-capability network monitoring solution for network administrators."

Key Device Watch is available in all versions of NetTool™ Inline Network Tester models and select LinkRunner™ Handheld Network Connectivity Tester models. It is also available as a stand-alone product.

Key Device Watch provides the critical functions needed to monitor and protect a small network without complexity or high cost. The software enables users to map to their networks, monitor critical devices such as email or web sites, and receive alerts about any problems via email, sound, or visual pop-up, in order to speed problem resolution. A trend analysis feature, which tracks network diagnostics with graphical reports and charts, is also available in this bundle.

Fluke Networks Portable Network Test Devices
NetTool Inline Network Tester combines cable, network, IP phone and PC configuration testing into one palm-sized tool that empowers network administrators to quickly identify and resolve the toughest connectivity problems. With the NetTool Inline Network Tester, administrators can connect between two network devices, listen to the traffic between them and quickly see the three most common connectivity problems: the PC is not properly configured, a network resource is not available or there is a cable problem.

LinkRunner is a portable network connectivity tester and an essential tool for network technicians that quickly and accurately verifies connectivity and availability. As networks run faster and become more complex, infrastructure cabling and devices must operate to precise levels in a tighter performance window. LinkRunner assists with this goal by enabling users to quickly identify a problem and improving troubleshooting and escalation accuracy.

Pricing and Availability
NetTool and LinkRunner with Key Device Watch are easy-to-deploy, cost-effective tools to measure and understand enterprise-wide application performance from the end-user's perspective. NetTool is available for immediate delivery in three different versions. All versions include Key Device Watch Software with suggested U.S. list price starting at $917.
LinkRunner is also available immediately, with Key Device Watch included, suggested U.S. list price starting at $545. Key Device Watch software is also available as a stand-alone product with a suggested U.S. list price of $245. 
 www.flukenetworks.com      http://www.ipswitch.com 

YOFC MULTIMODE FIBER ENVIRONMENTAL PERFORMANCE BETTER THAN INDUSTRY STANDARD

Yangtze Optical Fibre and Cable Company, Ltd. (YOFC), manufacturer and worldwide supplier of industry leading optical fiber and cable, today announced the environmental performance of its multimode fiber portfolio is significantly better that industry standards by more than fifty percent.  YOFC’s new specification is < = 0.10 dB/km for the environmental parameters contained in the TIA/EIA-492 and IEC 60793-2-10 documents.  The typical values are < = 0.05 dB/km.

“This extremely high level of environmental performance of our multimode fiber portfolio represents our continuing leadership position in optical fiber coating technology,” observed Raadj Matai, Technical Director of the Fibre Division at YOFC.   “Nearly a decade ago, YOFC introduced DLPC 7, a dual-layer, UV curable acrylate coating material that exceeded the industry standards at that time. Our current coating, DLPC 9, introduced in early 2004, again offers environmental performance that exceeds current industry standards,” he commented further.

This superior environmental performance of YOFC’s multimode fiber in conjunction with its extremely low attenuation provides network designers and installers a more robust and reliably performing multimode fiber.  In January 2005, YOFC announced the industry’s lowest attenuation multimode fiber with a maximum attenuation specification of 62.5 multimode fiber of 2.65 dB/km at 850 nm and .60 dB/km at 1300 nm and, or 50 micron multimode fiber, a maximum attenuation specification of 2.25 dB/km at 850 nm and .60 dB/km at 1300 nm.

ACUTA 34th Annual Conference and Exhibition in Kissimmee, Florida

ACUTA, the Association for Communications Technology Professionals in Higher Education, is coming to Florida.  ACUTA welcomes you to join them in this extraordinary event and expo.  Some of the people we spoke with that plan to attend this conference are combining vacation time with the event (because they are going to be located in the heart of the world's greatest entertainment center).

We have previewed the agenda for this conference and can assure you that there is real value in the presentations. 

There will be higher education data/telecom professionals from all over the country attending the ACUTA 34th Annual Conference and Exhibition in Kissimmee, Florida from July 17-21.  You can meet, mingle, and network with current and potential customers while showcasing your assets in your booth. http://www.acuta.org/ex-spon/kissimmee/prospectus.pdf    http://www.acuta.org

---------------------------------------------

34th Annual Conference * Kissimmee, FL * July 17-21, 2005

2005 Fall Seminars * Denver, CO * October 30-Nov 2, 2005

ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTORS ANTICIPATE MODEST GAINS

Sales expectations among electrical distributors show guarded optimism, according to the National Association of Electrical Distributors’ (NAED) most recent Quarterly Sales Change Expectation (QSCE) survey results. Of the survey’s 250 respondents, 73.6% expected positive sales for the first quarter (Jan. to March) 2005. The outlook for the second quarter (April to June) is more positive, with 84.8% anticipating positive sales change.

Modest Gains in First Quarter
First quarter reports reflected expectations of the last QSCE survey, with 76.3% forecasting increased sales. More than a third of respondents (36.0%) expect increases of 10% or more for Q1. Other categories with the highest response were sales growth by 5 to 5.9% (8.0%) and 8 to 9.9% (7.2%).

Flat sales were reported by 5.6% of respondents for the upcoming quarter. Slightly less than twenty percent (19.6%) reported negative sales, with 6.0% stating losses of -10% or more.

Second Quarter Forecast
In the second quarter of 2005, distributors are anticipating a boost in sales with nearly 85% (84.8%) expecting positive sales. A quarter of those responding (24.8%) predict gains of 10% or more. Other top categories were 5 to 5.9% (16.0%) and 6 to 7.9% (11.6%). Flat sales are expected by 7.6% of respondents and only 4.4% are preparing for sales decreases.

The survey was distributed in early April via fax and email to approximately 3,800 distributor locations. The questionnaire focused on sales expectations for the previous and upcoming quarter and the report features statistical breakouts by geographic region and number of employees.

NAED QUARTERLY SALES CHANGE RESULTS Q1-Q2

All Regions Conservative in Estimates
All four geographic regions expressed similar sales results for the first quarter of 2005. The West was slightly more optimistic (76.2%), followed by the Midwest (74.7%), South (71.8%) and Northeast (69.7%). For the upcoming quarter (April to June), the Midwest (91.6%) and West (90.5%) have the most positive outlook followed by the South (76.1%) and Northeast (75.8%).

Larger Companies Most Optimistic
Larger companies, those with 50 or more employees, have the brightest outlook for the first quarter of 2005, with 83.3% reporting positive sales expectations. However, smaller companies are expecting increases as well, with 77.2% of respondents from companies with 5 to 9 employees anticipating positive sales change. Similar expectations were reported by companies with 30 to 49 employees (76.7%) and 20 to 29 employees (73.7%) as well as companies with 10 to 19 employees (65.2%) and 1 to 4 employees (64.7%).

Larger and mid-size companies are most confident about the second quarter of 2005. Businesses with 50 or more employees have the highest expectations of positive sales increases (92.9%), followed by businesses with 20 to 29 employees (89.5%), 10 to 19 employees (86.4%), and 30 to 49 employees (83.3%). Smaller companies are slightly more conservative in their expectations, with 78.9% of businesses with 5 to 9 employees expecting positive sales and 70.6% of businesses with 1 to 4 employees expecting increases.

Participation Matters
QSCE is a management tool provided by NAED to its members and affiliates at no additional cost. It supplies detailed information to help NAED members run their businesses more effectively. www.naed.org

Maximizing Duct Capacity and Simplifying Installation

Federal-Mogul Systems Protection Group, maker of BentleyHarris® brand protection products, is the world's largest supplier and manufacturer of protective sleeving. Headquartered in Exton, Pennsylvania, the company has three manufacturing plants in the United States; facilities in seven foreign countries; and an extensive research, development and testing facility.
 
The company remains focused on innovation and has dedicated over 15% of its workforce to product engineering, research and development.  So when the telecommunications market needed an alternative to traditional innerduct, Federal-Mogul Systems Protection Group was ready to respond by introducing CableGuide®'a8 SC, a textile-based innerduct solution.  CableGuide SC was launched with complete product and customer support from training, to installation instructions and specialty tools, and even on-site assistance.  From that point forward, an alternative to traditional innerduct became a new option in the telecom industry.
 
Traditional installation methods involve the use of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or polyvinylchloride (PVC) innerduct to separate individual or groups of cables. Because the innerduct is rigid and has a fixed diameter, there are limitations to the size and amount of rigid innerduct that can be used within conduit.  That then limits the amount of cable that can be installed.
 
A different approach to maximizing space utilization is to replace or supplement the existing HDPE or PVC innerduct system with CableGuide.  This type of system has the ability to conform to the inside of the conduit yet still keeps multiple cables segregated.   
http://www.federal-mogul.com/cda/content/front/0,2194,2601_5853_14750614,00.html

CableGuide SC, a highly flexible, textile-based innerduct makes it easy to maximize duct capacity and has improved utilization of space up to 85%.  Key features of the product include:
 
•                  Rigorously tested single cell product.
•                  Woven polyester as individual cells.
•                  Various cell sizes can be engineered to accommodate a variety of cable sizes and types.
•                  Each cell is permanently color coded for identification.
•                  Pre-installed pull tape printed with sequential footage markers.
 
The choice of polyester as a base material insures that the product will not be adversely affected by moisture absorption. It also translates to exceptional chemical and ultraviolet (UV) resistance.  Polyester material is lightweight, which contributes to the fact that CableGuide SC is only a fraction of the weight of standard HDPE or PVC innerduct.
 
CableGuide SC is easily installed into unoccupied duct. The fact that it can be installed as individual cells or multiple cells is also important when working with occupied conduit systems. The cell’s design enables it to be pulled in alongside existing innerduct and cables and its inherent flexibility enables CableGuide SC to conform into the remaining available space.  
 
The most common installation technique for innerduct of any kind is to pull it into the conduit.  CableGuide SC can easily be installed by this method but also offers the additional capability of being air blown.  The use of the air blown method to reduce installation time and labor is a growing trend.  CableGuide SC was designed with this technique in mind.  
 
To further assist with the installation of CableGuide SC, Federal-Mogul Systems Protection Group created three unique alignment tools to ease the process of working with a flexible innerduct.   These tools can accommodate installation of up to nine cells, in tight areas, and in areas accessible through manholes.
Another need that was accounted for during the CableGuide SC design was the ability to quickly and easily splice the material in the field.  Splice kits have been developed that allow CableGuide SC to be safely and securely spliced if required during installation.  
 
CableGuide SC is available in a detectable version containing a 24 gauge, 19 strand coated tin/copper wire woven into the body of each cell to increase durability and allow for positive location detection from above ground.  The wire also allows detection of pre-existing non-conductive cable or dielectric fiber optic cables.  Installers can find the cable to make repairs and other utility workers can locate the cable so that they can avoid it if they are disturbing the ground in the immediate area.  
 
CableGuide® SC
 
•     Increases Conduit Space Utilization
•     Simplifies Installation Process – place several cables at once or add them one at a time
•     Can be used for new installation or existing network upgrades
•     Install in preoccupied duct with existing cables or innerduct
•     Easy to handle, ship, store and dispose
•     Easily identify cells and decrease location time
•     Optional detection features allow cable installers to make repairs and utility workers to avoid disturbing ground in the immediate area
•     Utilizes warehouse space efficiently
 
 
Solutions for Electrical Applications
A full range of Bentley-Harris products, manufactured by Federal-Mogul Systems Protection Group, are also available for applications including products:
 
•       Designed to protect wiring, hoses, cabling and mechanical assemblies against abrasion, dirt, cut-through and environmental hazards.

•       Featuring a broad ranging of coatings and treatments to protect against temperature extremes, breakdown strength, weight and flexibility.
 
Additional sleeving products such as Expando® and ROUNDIT® can assist in electrical and electronic applications depending upon the need for thermal stability, bundling and abrasion resistance.   www.federal-mogul.com/spg

As seen in Cabling Business Magazine – May 2005 Manufacturer’s Corner

Sign up for a FREE subscription at www.cablingbusiness.com !

GE CONSUMER & INDUSTRIAL PLEDGES $500,000 TO NAED EDUCATION & RESEARCH FOUNDATION

The National Association of Electrical Distributors (NAED) announces a $500,000 commitment by GE Consumer & Industrial to the NAED Education & Research Foundation.

 "The NAED Education & Research Foundation is committed to helping the electrical distribution industry move forward, and GE Consumer & Industrial is pleased to be able to support their efforts and further demonstrate our commitment to education and learning. NAED's research and education initiatives are critical in keeping our industry successful with new technology and ideas,” said Michael Petras, vice president, commercial & industrial, GE Consumer & Industrial.

GE Consumer & Industrial, a $13 billion business unit of General Electric, spans the globe as an industry leader in lighting products, major appliances and integrated industrial equipment systems and services for multiple markets—residential, commercial, industrial and institutional/utility. The business, headquartered in Louisville, Ky., employs approximately 64,000 people at 135 locations globally.

“For the past 30 years, GE has been one of the industry’s top supporters of education and training. This contribution is deeply appreciated, as it is further evidence of GE’s commitment to the growth and future of the electrical distribution channel,” said Bill Elliott, chairman of the Channel Advantage Partnership Council and president of Elliott Electric Supply in Nacogdoches, Texas.

The company’s donation will become part of an endowment fund for the NAED Education & Research Foundation. The principal amount of the endowment will remain untouched, while the interest will be used to commission future projects and studies. As a $500,000 donor, GE Consumer & Industrial will be recognized at the regent level and have a permanent position on the Channel Advantage Partnership Council, which will help select future educational programs and research projects.

   www.naed.org

DuPont enters the Cabling Contracting Arena With a Twist

New DuPont™ Abandoned Cable Services Help Ensure Code Compliance and Safer Building Infrastructure
This Market Offering May Help Reduce Uncontrolled Build-Up of Building Cables

On May 02, 2005, DuPont announced DuPont™ Abandoned Cable Services, a suite of services designed to drive compliance with building codes on cabling.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), approximately 60 billion feet of communications cabling has been installed in the United States. DuPont believes a significant percentage of that cabling has been abandoned in buildings and represents a large potential hazard. http://www.nfpa.org/

With SIXTY BILLION FEET of abandoned cable in the US workplace to be removed, the cost will be staggering. Who will pay for this awesome cleanup and who is qualified to do the job? Most of the abandoned communications cable contains heavy metals like LEAD, as well as materials that may create deadly toxic gasses under heat decomposition. Some of these cables may be classified as HAZMAT and may require special (and expensive) handling in the waste stream. Building owners are preparing to deal with the potential liabilities and health risks associated with this issue.

In a press release DuPont stated, "DuPont™ Abandoned Cable Services will provide assessment services for identification and reporting of abandoned cable hazards in office buildings; planning for infrastructure improvement and management; connections with local labor; and removal and recycling logistics. This packaged offering is available to building owners, property managers, tenants, and corporate network engineers responsible for ensuring that their facilities meet the National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) National Electric Code (NEC) requirement to remove abandoned cabling from buildings.

"The NEC requirement clearly recognizes that generations of abandoned wires and cables needlessly increase the fire fuel load on commercial buildings," said Pat Lindner, global business manager of DuPont Communications Cabling Solutions. "DuPont is committed to providing our customers with the best products and services to protect people and buildings from the damaging effects of fire."

DuPont™ Abandoned Cable Services are delivered through professional auditors, local DuPont preferred network contractors and exclusive recycling technology. The DuPont preferred contractor network, comprised of referrals to experienced contractors trained on responsible removal practices and efficient 'removal for recycling' techniques, is available in all North American major metropolitan areas, including the Washington DC/Baltimore area, New York City, Philadelphia and Chicago. End-of-life and abandoned cables are recycled from the client's site into reusable streams of copper and separated plastics.

In the press release for this new area of service offering, DuPont did not provide the criteria for selecting their "preferred network contractors" nor was there any detailed information on the "exclusive recycling technology".www.dupont.com

NAED RELEASES FINDINGS OF OPERATIONAL MODEL STUDY

According to a recent study commissioned by the NAED Education & Research Foundation, “Operational Model for Increasing Distributor Profitability,” electrical distributors are under pressure from their customers to provide more for less—lower prices and higher levels of service. With profit margins declining, the study suggests it may be necessary to implement an entirely new business model based on a more precise analysis of customer needs.

The study was researched by Dr. Perry Daneshgari, an adjunct professor of management and engineering at the University of Michigan and president of MCA, and edited by Dr. Al Bates, president of Profit Planning Group.

Researchers examined a new operational model for electrical distributors that incorporates the elements of “lean production.” As applied to distribution, a lean-production model involves five key elements: system design, process models, information flows, organizational learning and differential technology. All of these elements revolve around the need to respond to the ongoing demand for change by customers. This overcomes limitations by providing continuous needs assessment, time flow/error management and facilitated communication.

Through compiled electrical distributor case studies, the study indicated that a number of distributors were able to successfully adapt “lean production” concepts in the areas of customer satisfaction, reducing customer procurement costs and extending service. The researchers concluded that distributors need to transition from the historical competency of sales-based service; service-based sales will be the future of the industry. Service-based sales can increase both the productivity of customers and the profitability of distributors.

According to researchers, the challenge for electrical distributors is to determine how these concepts can best be integrated into existing businesses. Electrical distributors must combine market conditions and customer needs to produce their own industry-specific operational model.

This research study was selected, funded and monitored by the Foundation’s Channel Advantage Partnership (CAP). Together with the Foundation’s Board of Directors, the CAP Council is working to provide NAED members with tangible, useable information, as well as strategies and tools to operate stronger and smarter.

Copies of the study and an accompanying CD were mailed to the main contacts of all NAED members and affiliates. For more information, visit the NAED Web site at www.naed.org. An educational course will be developed based on the data contained in the research study later this year.

FACT SHEET

Operational Model for Increasing Distributor Profitability

Research in distribution has found that customers have two fundamental and highly conflicting needs from their distributors. They desire lower prices, yet they also have a strong need for a greater array of services. While customers may not perceive the inconsistency of lower price and higher service, they are relentless in their demand for change.

This study suggests a new operational model for distributors that is based on “lean production.” As applied to distribution, a lean-production operational model involves five key elements, all of which revolve around the need to respond to the ongoing demand for change by customers. There is no need to change for the sake of change. Instead, there is always the need to meet customer needs.

Five Key Elements

System Design - The systematic measurement of customer needs and a commitment to meeting those needs. The goal of system design is to provide the maximum level of value added to the customer at the lowest level of cost to the distributor.

Process Models - Structuring the firm's activities in a way that focuses strategically on key customer needs. A process model, such as the Kano Model, helps indicate the direction the firm should take in modifying its service profile.

Information Flows - Rethinking information processes in the firm to provide more rapid responses to changing market conditions. The key to proper information flows is bandwidth. In most distribution organizations, horizontal bandwidth (such as manager to manager) is extremely broad while vertical bandwidth (such as delivery personnel to management) is unnecessarily narrow. Managers can force vertical bandwidth through formal meetings and job shadowing.

Organizational Learning - Creating an environment in which the firm can quickly and aggressively react to changes in customer needs. In most organizations, systemic learning takes place through a project audit, which should be held periodically on a company-wide basis.

Differential Technology - The utilization of advanced technology to maximize the firm's ability to meet customer needs at reduced expense levels. The key is applying technology in a way that competitors do not, such as expanded usage of online ordering.

In a traditional operational model, employees often perform their jobs flawlessly, but without regard for the effects on other areas of the business. The lean-production model overcomes this and other limitations by providing continuous needs assessment, time flow/error management and facilitated communication.

To increase profitability, electrical distributors must respond to the changing needs of customers by implementing a new operational model. Otherwise, customers will turn to other options, such as DIY organizations or by purchasing directly from manufacturers. Service-based sales can increase both the productivity of customers and the profitability of distributors. www.naed.org 

Belden Profits Rise

Belden CDT, formed by the merger last year of Belden and Cable Design Technologies, on Thursday reported higher quarterly net profit as revenue rose.

The St. Louis-based company posted first-quarter net profit of $13.0 million, or 26 cents per share, compared with $2.3 million, or 9 cents per share, in the year-ago quarter. www.beldencdt.com

Fluke Networks Teams With Computer Associates

Fluke Networks today announced it has joined forces with Computer Associates International, Inc. (NYSE: CA) to optimize the availability of the Interop Event Network (eNet) at the Interop conference in Las Vegas.

CA's Unicenter Network and Systems Management (Unicenter NSM) and Unicenter ServicePlus Service Desk have been selected to manage and monitor the eNet for the seventh consecutive year at the Interop conference. Fluke Networks, which has been an official eNet sponsor for 11 years, is now the Distributed Analysis and Troubleshooting Sponsor for eNet. Combining Computer Associates' and Fluke Networks' solutions help ensure the availability and performance of critical services for the eNet, one of the world's largest and most sophisticated short-term networks. eNet supports the Interop conference, which runs through May 6, 2005 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas.

"Fluke Networks and CA have teamed up to provide a broader and deeper enterprise systems management approach for our mutual customers," said Lisa Schwartz, Solution Marketing and Alliance Manager, Fluke Networks. "The combination of our solutions enables network professionals to work from a single user interface to access features such as remote data collection, detailed reports and remote user interfaces for troubleshooting. This strategic combination significantly extends Fluke Networks' leadership in the enterprise test, monitoring and analysis markets."

The combination of the companies' network management and distributed analysis capabilities can be seen at eNet's Network Operating Center (NOC). CA's Unicenter NSM monitors the health and availability of the eNet. The first indications of anomalies are analyzed by Fluke Networks' OptiView Console, OptiView Integrated Network Analyzer and/or EtherScope Network Assistant, all of which can be remotely accessed and controlled directly from Unicenter NSM. This seamless integration between Unicenter NSM and Fluke Networks' devices allows better visibility into network status and faster resolution of problems.

Fluke Networks' EtherScope Network Assistant communicates directly with CA's Unicenter ServicePlus Service Desk via a web interface to send trouble tickets and to dispatch technicians. Anomalies can be tested, diagnosed and resolved with the EtherScope, and the trouble ticket can be opened, modified and closed remotely, reducing paper-based processes and enabling the technician to more efficiently act upon trouble tickets and move to their next task. With distributed analysis, centralized analysis and remote troubleshooting, Interop's eNet benefits from a management system that minimizes problems and maximizes the network's value.

"The integration of Fluke Networks' monitoring technologies with CA's Unicenter enterprise and service management solutions enables customers to incorporate granular network insight into a coherent, efficient overall strategy for optimizing service levels and reducing the cost of infrastructure ownership," said Melvin Estrada, Business and Product Manager for Unicenter Network Management solutions at CA. "The fact that we are collaborating to support Interop's eNet is indicative of how well our products are integrated and how effectively they manage even the most sophisticated network environments."

About Computer Associates

Computer Associates International, Inc. (NYSE:CA), one of the world's largest management software companies, delivers software and services across operations, security, storage, life cycle and service management to optimize the performance, reliability and efficiency of enterprise IT environments. Founded in 1976, CA is headquartered in Islandia N.Y., and serves customers in more than 140 countries. http://ca.com .

About Fluke Networks

Fluke Networks provides innovative solutions for the testing, monitoring and analysis of enterprise and telecommunications networks and the installation and certification of the fiber and copper forming the foundation for those networks. The company's comprehensive line of Network SuperVision Solutionstm 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. www.flukenetworks.com 

Three Tiny Treasures - Performed Line

Other newsletters adopt a "pick 'em and forget 'em" approach to stock recommendations. But that's not how we do things at Hidden Gems. We take our obligations to our subscribers seriously and strive to continuously monitor our companies and update our members on their progress. In that spirit, today Rich Smith examines the earnings reports that three of our Tiny Gems have just released.

By Rich Smith

In recent weeks, stock market investors have been living la vida volatile. The S&P 500 index plunged from a high of 1,225 to as low as 1,146 (a 6.5% decline) before staggering back up to close recently at just over 1,160 -- still a 5% loss. At Motley Fool Hidden Gems, our flagship publication for small-cap investors, we've felt the pain as well. Our portfolio, which in its inaugural year regularly posted gains in the range of 40% and more, has been hit hard. In fact, as of this writing, we're up "only" 28%.

But we're still beating the S&P 500 by a 5-1 margin. And those are just the results for our official recommendations. Our Watch List stocks -- the runners-up in our monthly stock-culling exercise -- are doing nearly as well. And our Tiny Gems -- high-quality companies in micro-cap packaging -- are beating the market by a 12-1 margin. (And, yeah, Tiny Gems' performance is more fluke than skill, but you know we're still grinning ear to ear reciting it.)

More than picks and statistics (enunciate it really well, and it rhymes)
What's more, we don't emulate the "pick 'em and forget 'em" approach of other investing newsletters. On the contrary, we've invested a lot of time and effort in finding these companies -- official recommendations, Watch List stocks and Tiny Gems all. And now that we've found them, we're not letting them out of our sight. Our team of Hidden Gems analysts continuously monitors these companies for news that our readers need to know and periodically updates them on developments in our companies, both on our Hidden Gems discussion boards, in monthly updates of the most interesting news, and in detailed semiannual reviews. And, of course, right here on www.Fool.com .

In today's news
Speaking of which, the past couple of weeks have been busy ones for our Gems. Earnings season is in full swing, and the business press is chock-full of profits news on our companies. Rest assured that we'll be covering the majority of the really interesting earnings announcements among the Gems and Watch List stocks either in separate articles or in expert-led discussions on our boards. Today, I want to update members on the latest news out of three of Hidden Gems' JV league: our Tiny Gems.

Image Sensing Systems (Nasdaq: ISNS)
Like your car? Hate your commute? Then give a big "howdy" to Image Sensing Systems, because this traffic-camera designer aims to make traffic congestion a thing of the past. It's not a high-profile task. In fact, you've probably never heard of most companies working in this space, as they range from the small (Quixote (Nasdaq: QUIX)) to the very small (Optelecom (Nasdaq: OPTC)) to the very, very small (Image Sensing). But high-profile or not, Image Sensing is proving that by making traffic flow better, it can generate some cash flow as well.

On Thursday, this tiny company (and I mean tiny, with a staff of fewer than three dozen employees) reported $0.10 in earnings per diluted share, a 24% rise increase over Q1 2004. This despite a top-line increase of less than 3%. The reason for the huge jump in profits relative to revenues was that Image Sensing's lower-margin product sales declined by half year-on-year, while high-margin royalty revenue skyrocketed 39%. When most of your growth comes from sales that drop almost directly to the bottom line, as royalty revenues do, you can really supercharge your returns.

On the downside, it would be a mistake to assume that profits will continue to outperform revenue growth in future quarters. The company made a point of emphasizing both its backlog of equipment sales expected to take place in Europe and the fact that a new product is ready to begin selling in Asia. Both of those developments should lead to stronger revenue performance going forward, but with a consequent return of net margins to a more normalized level.

Lakeland Industries (Nasdaq: LAKE)
It's a good thing Lakeland's specialty is manufacturing protective clothing. This sub-$100 million micro cap needs all the protection it can get as it does battle for market share every day against giants hundreds of times its size. Household names such as DuPont (NYSE: DD) and Kimberly-Clark (NYSE: KMB) compete against Lakeland. Worse, Lakeland also has to buy some of its raw materials from major competitor Dupont. As hazardous-to-your-business-health environments go, it doesn't get much tougher than that.

Lakeland operates on a somewhat different fiscal timeline from most other companies. So when it reported earnings on April 15, it was actually reporting for all of "fiscal 2005" just ended, rather than for a single quarter. For the year, Lakeland experienced a 38% rise in net profits on a 6% increase in revenue compared with fiscal 2004. Per-share profits didn't do so well, however. The company issued 1.3 million new shares back in July 2004, diluting the extra net profits by 40% and reining in per-share profits growth to just 11%.

Worse, from Wall Street's perspective, the company isn't expecting to see per-share earnings rise at all in fiscal 2006, because of a combination of increased costs for Sarbanes-Oxley compliance, rising raw material costs, and additional stock dilution from a planned stock dividend that will be declared at the end of this week.

One final issue to keep an eye on with this company is the rate of inventory growth vs. sales growth. Despite revenues rising just 6% last year, inventories grew nearly 18% -- three times as fast. As is often the case with companies where inventory growth outpaces sales growth, the buildup in inventories also took a toll on the company's cash flows. After generating positive cash flow for two years running, Lakeland turned free cash flow negative in fiscal 2005 for the first time since 2002.

Preformed Line Products (Nasdaq: PLPC)
Batting cleanup for this line of happy-news bearers comes wire and cable encloser Preformed Line Products. And this slugger packs a wallop, as demonstrated by its first-quarter 2005 results released Monday. Compared with the year-ago quarter, Preformed Line ramped its sales up 28% and extracted from those results a 143% increase in per-share diluted profits.

That's outstanding. And what's more, the company's accounts receivable increased just 7% against the 28% sales increase, and inventories actually declined year-on-year. The way I read that, we're looking at a company with real sales here (channel stuffers need not apply) -- a company whose products are in such demand that it's able to require prompt payment from customers, while selling off goods almost as fast as it can manufacture them.

Combine strong profits with a strong business, and then throw in shareholder-friendly management that doesn't dilute outside shareholders but rather pays them an above-market-average 2.4% dividend. Small size or not, this one could be a true gem of an investment.

www.smpdata.com  - www.preformed.com

The first team
That's all the news on these JV Gem candidates for this week. Covering all three in a single column, I've necessarily abbreviated each write-up to fit the space allowed. But if you find yourself intrigued and wanting to learn more about these three Tiny Gems, you're welcome to peruse the Hidden Gems site free of charge for a month by clicking here.

Superior Essex Inc. Announces Filing of Universal Shelf Registration Statement

Superior Essex Inc., a wire and cable company in North America, announced that it has filed a universal shelf registration statement with the Securities and Exchange Commission. When declared effective by the Securities Exchange Commission, the registration statement will permit Superior Essex to issue, from time to time, up to an aggregate of $175,000,000 of Superior Essex common stock, preferred stock, debt securities and warrants.

"Having a shelf registration in place gives us flexibility to opportunistically access capital markets," said Stephen Carter, Chief Executive Officer of Superior Essex. The company would plan to use net proceeds from any sale of its securities to provide working capital for general corporate purposes. www.superioressex.com.

Ortronics Introduces New Mighty Mo 6 Seismic Cable Management Rack

Ortronics/Legrand is pleased to announce the introduction of the Mighty Mo 6 Seismic Cable Management Rack. The patent pending Mighty Mo 6 seismic rack combines the advanced features of the Mighty Mo 6 cable management system with the added strength and protection of a Zone 4 seismic rating.

Ortronics Mighty Mo 6 seismic rack is compliant to Telcordia GR-63-CORE Zone 4 standards, with a load rating of 510 lbs, and is the first seismic rack with a "knock-down" design that can be assembled onsite. This patent pending steel frame design allows for much greater ease and flexibility in shipping, handling and installation, while still providing maximum strength and rigidity.

The Mighty Mo 6 seismic rack is 7 ft. high and available with either a 10.5" or 16.25" channel depth. A full 45 rack units of mounting space is available, with #12-24 mounting holes on the front and rear of the rack. The seismic rack accepts all Mighty Mo 6 vertical and horizontal cable managers and is fully compatible with all Mighty Mo 6 system components.

The Mighty Mo 6 advanced cable management system is specifically designed for higher density cabling system applications, such as premise networks, data centers and SANs. It features an innovative vertical management "cage" with individual 1-rack unit fingers and a double-hinged door that can open to either the left or right. Mighty Mo 6 also offers rack unit markings, built-in strain relief, bend radius control, and cable routing with floor and ceiling cable access to distribution cables. It features patented channel construction, and includes a top trough with built-in waterfall to provide bend radius control and efficient patch cable routing. Its durable black powder coat finish minimizes fingerprints and resists scratching.  www.ortronics.com

iTRACS^® Releases New IT Infrastructure Manager^™ Software

Simplified management  tools provide ease of use without customization.

iTRACS Corporation, the leader in intelligent network infrastructure management solutions has released a new suite of easy to use software for IT change management and network infrastructure tracking.

The Product Design

iTRACS Infrastructure Manager software has been specifically designed to function in partnership with iTRACS-Enabled^™ hardware - manufactured by industry leaders like AMP NETCONNECT. The software is designed to explore and discover and map the connectivity of the customer network. It is further designed to simplify the process of all future moves, adds and changes (MACs) of end-users. It also intelligently suggests the best connectivity routes, a feature called auto-routing. The software allows simultaneous access by a spectrum of department representatives; these include help desk, planning, network administration, supervision and technicians.

The Problems of Complex Networks - Solved

iTRACS IM^™ single-site software is ideally suited to customers with complex data/telecom networks and critical applications. Examples include financial institutions, insurance providers, data centers, high security government facilities, military defense facilities, airports, medical centers, universities and corporate headquarters.

These customers and clients share the difficult management of complicated networks, requiring accurate record-keeping, high security, and frequent MACs. The simplification of the work order process also provides valuable benefits to client networks of any size, and can be upgraded for Enterprise networks that require custom program development.

Product Leadership

iTRACS, as one of the earliest developers of Cable Management Software (CMS), has maintained an international leadership position in CMS design for more than 15 years. iTRACS IM has been specifically designed to automate the MAC record maintenance process, to simplify the user interface and to share access across departments. No competitive CMS software package offers even a fraction of the strength and flexibility of the iTRACS IM product. 

“We listened to our customers and we are delighted to release iTRACS IM. It includes some new, highly desirable features such as automatic routing and service provisioning. iTRACS IM will be known for simplicity and ease of use, while remaining compatible with our mainstream products,” said Tom Reedy, President and CEO of iTRACS. “We’ve added more highly skilled and experienced people in anticipation of iTRACS IM’s success, and we look forward to continued sales growth and improved customer service through the efforts of our strong channel partners, quality sales professionals, and dedicated development team.” www.itracs.com .

Belden’s President / CEO Announces Retirement

Belden CDT Inc. said C. Baker Cunningham, its president and chief executive officer, has decided to accelerate his plan to retire in 2006 at the age of 65.

Cunningham said at the company's annual meeting today that no formal retirement date has been set, and he will remain in his current position with Belden CDT during the transition to its new CEO.

Bryan C. Cressey is chairman of Belden CDT's board of directors and will remain in that role. Belden CDT Inc. was formed in July 2004 through the merger of Belden Inc. and Cable Design Technologies Corporation.

"The company is performing well and has the strength and financial flexibility to make measured long-term choices about its future," Cunningham said. "The integration of Belden and Cable Design Technologies is in the hands of our capable management and significantly ahead of schedule, and the opportunities for the combined company are outstanding. Starting the CEO transition now enables the person who will lead Belden CDT in its next stage of development to be part of our long-term strategic planning process as we focus on the future of our company."

Cunningham added, "It has been my intention to retire at age 65, and the company's solid performance, success with the integration process and strong outlook make it possible for me to retire sooner than I had planned."

The board's succession planning committee has engaged Crist Associates, an executive search firm based in Chicago, to identify CEO candidates.

Cunningham served as Belden's chairman, president and chief executive officer from its initial public offering in 1993 and as president and chief executive officer of Belden CDT since the merger. Previously he was executive vice president and a 23-year veteran of Cooper Industries, Inc., which also was Belden's parent company.

At the annual meeting shareholders re-elected the 10 members of its board and approved the addition of 2.5 million shares to the company's long-term performance incentive plan.

In addition, the board of directors of Belden CDT Inc. today declared a regular quarterly dividend of five cents per share payable on July 6, 2005 to all shareholders of record as of June 3, 2005.   www.belden.com 

AFCOM’s Spring 2005 Data Center World Conference

From April 17th to the 21st, 2005, AFCOM held its Data Center World conference at the Rio in Las Vegas and concurrently celebrated its twenty-five year anniversary. The conference kicked off with a keynote address by Brian Koma, president of Stratagem Marketing, Inc.: “Back to the Future in the Data Center,” a look at the past twenty-five years in data center technology. At this presentation, AFCOM and Network World presented three New Data Center Awards for the most secure data center, the data center manager of the year and the data center of the year. Recipients included James Callahan, directory, data center security, MCI Smart Center, Beltsville, MD; Raymond Detheridge, data center facilities manager, MCI, Elmsford, NY; and the data center of the year went to Oracle’s Austin Data Center: Mitchell McGovern, vice president of Oracle Global Data Center Operations and David Thompson, senior vice president, chief information officer.

Data Center World’s attendance more than doubled from spring 2004, topping 900, and vendor participation in the expo hall increased by 37%. Highlights of the event included virtual data tours; full-day tutorials on power and cooling, budget validation, and data center standardization; and many educational sessions on topics including data center security, best data center practices, using metrics to drive computer operations efficiency, and mission-critical operations—to name a few.

Attendees raved about the Data Center World trade show that included industry leaders such as IBM, Connectivity Technologies, The Bick Group, AFCO Systems, Cybermation, Emerson Network Power/Liebert, Imation, and many more. “I felt the exhibit hall was outstanding,” shared Timothy Mills, operations manager, Cardinal Health. “I was there until pretty much the end. I met with a vendor who had new liquid for fire suppression, and I met with a guy from Help/Systems…about the direction of our organization,” he added.

One of the aspects that is most appreciated by attendees—and is expanded at each new conference—is AFCOM’s Vision2Vision program, which includes a networking luncheon, open forum sessions, and after-hours gatherings to promote end-user communications among their peers. Brad Lauderman, manager operations services, Armstrong World Industries, remarked, “A lot