ISO/IEC plug-and-play standard enables seamless technology
23 January, 2012The newest parts of an International Standard for Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) will help devices to seamlessly cross multivendor and multitechnology networks - another step forward for intelligent homes and offices. UPnP technology together with enabling home automation technologies such as KNX (ISO/IEC 14543-3) or Echonet (ISO/IEC 14543-4) makes this possible, because it allows devices to connect and work together, facilitating multiple applications like entertainment, energy efficiency, security and building control, through data and resource sharing, communications, the internet and simplified network establishment.
Free electrical safety forum
10 January, 2012 | Supplied by: Rockwell Automation AustraliaThe upcoming Safety Automation Forum, part of the Rockwell Automation on the Move industry event, will showcase machine process and electrical safety techniques from leading industry safety experts.
Software to control field workers’ schedules and re-deploy them
07 January, 2012 | Supplied by: simPRO Software Pty LtdWith the simPRO software, A&K can now quickly track all of their electricians utilising in-built mapping and easily reschedule their jobs in order to give priority to emergency jobs.
The significance of network integrity in premise cabling
03 January, 2012 | Supplied by: BICSI South PacificPremise or customer cabling is defined as “cabling beyond the carrier’s network boundary” in the Telecommunications Act (the Act) and involves any cabling that can connect a device to the telecommunications network.
How do you determine if a worker is an employee or a contractor?
03 January, 2012 by Patricia Ryan* | Supplied by: http://www.theeigroup.com.auMany businesses enjoy the flexibility of engaging contractors for certain projects or to assist during busy periods. However, confusion often arises as to whether these so-called contractors are regarded by the law as such. Whether a person is a contractor or an employee will be a question of fact to be determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account all the relevant factors of the relationship.
New lighting regulations in the US in 2012
21 December, 2011The upcoming lighting legislation in the US will mandate that lighting manufacturers cease the production of non-efficient lighting and related products, which will change the way facilities consume energy and maintain lighting.
RS Components 3D CAD library
13 December, 2011 | Supplied by: RSRS Components has expanded its 3D CAD library with more models from Molex and Omron.
Siemens to acquire eMeter
12 December, 2011Siemens has agreed to acquire California-headquartered platform and MDM application software company eMeter Corporation.
2012 Global Energy Prize accepting nominations
12 December, 2011Nominations for the Global Energy Prize will close 29 February 2012.
Dimetix FLS-C distance measuring device
12 December, 2011 | Supplied by: Birrer Industries
The Dimetix FLS-C is an optical distance measuring device that measures distances - on natural and reflecting surfaces - up to 500 m without contact.
Spirent named global leader in ethernet and cloud infrastructure test equipment markets
06 December, 2011 | Supplied by: Matrium Technologies Pty LtdSpirent Communications has been named by Frost & Sullivan as the market leader in the 1/10/40/100G ethernet and cloud infrastructure test equipment markets, with 28.9 and 45.6% market shares respectively.
A helping hand for struggling small businesses
29 November, 2011 by Dr Caroline Hong*, CEO, SME Association of Australia
The electrical industry in Australia is characterised by sole traders, family, micro and small businesses, which face daily challenges involved in running a company in difficult times.
Two policies that will hurt electrical contractors
29 November, 2011
The introduction of the carbon tax and the planned removal of the Australian Building and Construction Commission (ABCC) are two government policies that will affect the electrical and communications industry.
Don’t confuse price with total cost
29 November, 2011 by By Shawn Dennison, Vice President of Finance, Cerrowire-Electrical Distribution
The following cautionary tale, which shows the pitfalls of confusing price with cost, is a fairly accurate example of what we have been seeing in customers’ buying practices. What this story shows is that the true cost of wire includes so much more than the material cost. Those looking for true bargains need to consider a variety of factors such as rebates, product guarantees and return policies, and value-add features that may end up saving money in the long run. The calculation of costs must also consider lead time, fill rates, number of shipments to complete an order, as well as payment terms. All play a role in determining the true cost.
Top Australian electrical firms recognised
29 November, 2011 | Supplied by: NECA/National Electrical & Communications Association
The National Electrical and Communications Association has recognised 10 electrical and communications companies across Australia as being the best of the best in the industry.

