Archived articles - Electrical, lighting, power generation, automation, drives and control

OSRAM launches eco-chic light bulbs

The clever use of light can transform a room. A fabulous light can be decorative when switched off, and mood enhancing when switched on. It can be bright, white, sparkling and spectacular lifting your spirits and unwinding your mind. It can be dusky, seductive, soothing or rich, restful to the soul, inspiring romance or instilling calm. And clever lighting doesn’t have to mean energy sapping bulbs that are bad for the environment. Thanks to a new range of eco-chic light bulbs from OSRAM, your home can be beautifully and interestingly lit, while you feel assured that you’re doing your bit to... [more]

New stepper motor driver from Astrosyn offers three modes of control

The new MSST5-S stepper motor driver from Astrosyn International Technology is similar in price to traditional 5A step-and-direction microstepping drives, but offers three modes of control: step-and-direction; internal oscillator speed control; and full-blown PC or PLC software control. Software control allows it to be set up for running pre-coded routines repeatably, but it can also be useful to use this PC control to carry out on-line optimisation of parameters such as acceleration / deceleration rates, speeds, wait times etc. Even used in 'dumb' mode as a straight replacement for a t... [more]

Visual heat indicators on PlugGrip and SwitchGrip confirm if there is a wiring problem

The PlugGrip provides a quicker and safer way to wire and install outlets. Its handle keeps fingers out of the way, while controlling stiff wires and reducing wiring time. As an added safety feature, the PlugGrip has independent power warning lights. The SwitchGrip is used to install single pole and 3-way switches. It has a 12g-14g wire stripper and bender built into the handle along with an AC warning light and audible buzzer. The PlugGrip and SwitchGrip have new visual heat indicators on the face of each hand tool. When the tools are attached to an outlet or switch that is outside ... [more]

Multiwork helps contractors find self employed sub-contractors

A new concept is making it easier than ever before for self employed workers to find jobs and contracting companies to find reliable and well trained self employed sub-contractors. As anyone in the construction industry will know it is not easy to find good, honest, reliable sub-contract labour and this has meant that often it is not viewed as the most reliable source to get the job done. The numerous benefits of using subcontractors such as no fixed overheads, offset against project costs, the ability to use as and when required and the fact that no tools need to be purchased, mean that t... [more]

M J Quinn secures SAFEcontractor Accreditation

Under the SAFEcontractor system, businesses undergo a vetting process, which examines their health and safety procedures and track record for safe practice. Those companies meeting the high standard are included on a database. Employers in turn agree that, as users of the scheme, they will engage only those who have achieved accreditation. M J Quinn, whose clients include London Underground, the Ministry of Defence, the NHS and Pret-a-Manger, has secured this prestigious SAFEcontractor safety award. The 300-worker firm, which principally serves the building maintenance sector, has... [more]