NovDec 2006.pdf - Electrical Business Magazine

INFO NO. 1Page 14Toyota aims to get your businesswith the new Tundra.Page 10PEI sets new target for reducing relianceon imported fossil fuels and strengtheningthe economy.Page 18Read about the current state of thetransformer industry.PM # 40063602 PAP registration # 10774TW75SERVICE ENTRANCESUNLIGHT RESISTANTwww.nexans.caINFO NO. 2

INFO NO. 3

ElectricalB usinessTHE AUTHORITATIVE VOICE OFCANADA’S ELECTRICAL INDUSTRYNovember/December 2006Volume 42 • Issue 10ELECTRICAL BUSINESS is the magazine ofthe Canadian electrical industry. It reports onthe news and publishes articles in a manner thatis informative, knowledgeable and constructive.EditorAnthony Capkun - acapkun@clbmedia.caPublisherBill Begin - bbegin@clbmedia.caAccount RepresentativeJennifer Sewell - jsewell@clbmedia.caEB Editorial Advisory BoardRon Bergeron • Maureen Bzowy • Debbie DeCairePierre Dowd • Erhard Hermann • Tim JonesTed Olechna • Stephen TatrallyayArt DirectorSvetlana Avrutin - savrutin@clbmedia.caProduction ManagerRobert Russell - rrussell@clbmedia.caCreative DirectorEinar Rice - erice@clbmedia.caManager, ProductionLisa Drummond - ldrummond@clbmedia.caSubscriber Customer Service RepresentativeKristen Schulz - kschulz@clbmedia.ca240 Edward Street, Aurora, ON L4G 3S9Tel: 905-727-0077 Fax: 905-727-0017PresidentStuart MorrisonVice President, Media, PublishingNiel HiscoxVice President, Finance/Corporate DevelopmentKent MilfordVice President, Human ResourcesSusan BishopVice President, IT and OperationsDavid OverallDirector, Sales and MarketingFrank ShonikerDirector, Editorial and ProductionJackie RothManager, CirculationJames ZammitDirector, Facility Management and LogisticsSteve DaleDirector, Human ResourcesDenise DesrosiersDirector, ITMichael CunninghamMember, CLB Media Management CommitteeNigel BishopSUBSCRIPTION RATES:Canada: Single issue $7.00 • Ten issues: $35.00(including tax)USA: $59.00 (US) and International: $75.00 (US) per yearUnited States Second Class Postage Paid at Lewiston, NY(USPS-741-470) US POSTMASTER: send address changes toELECTRICAL BUSINESS, P.O. Box 8145, Lewiston, NY 14092The contents of Electrical Business are copyright by ©2006CLB Media Inc. and may not be reproduced in whole or partwithout written consent. CLB Media Inc. disclaims any warrantyas to the accuracy, completeness or currency of the contentsof this publication and disclaims all liability in respect ofthe results of any action taken or not taken in reliance uponinformation in this publication. REPRINTS: Contact The ReprintOutsource at (877) 394-7350.PAP Registration No. 10774Send address changes to:ELECTRICAL BUSINESS240 Edward Street, Aurora, ON L4G 3S9Return Postage GuaranteedCanada Post - Canadian Publications Mail Sales ProductsAgreement 40063602 ISSN 0013-4244Printed in CanadaThe problem with publishing anauthoritative national publicationlike Electrical Business isthat when you goof, everybody fromone coast t’other knows about it...and then they let me know about it.I received letters from Quebec toManitoba to Ontario, all pointingout that the guy on our October 2006cover is working unsafely from analuminum ladder. (There was also alittle chastizing involving another guyin an ad elsewhere in the book.) Theletters said things like, “We should bepromoting good safety practices” and23 Excellence in Technology ShowcaseThis special showcase brings you the latest information fromour industry partners that will help you propel your businessrelationships and capabilities to the next level. Every item inthis showcase focuses on how technological excellence canhelp distinguish you from the competition.FEATURESPhoto by Erin Rileywith the help of Lynx Cabling Systemsthat the guy looks more like somekind of ‘handy man’ rather than aqualified electrician.And so I say to Denis R., DwightD., Tony K. and Brian W. that Icouldn’t agree with you more.Rather than get upset over havingsomeone show me the error of myways, I am, instead, honoured to servesuch an astute and professional readership.It’s all too easy to become complacentand forgetful, or to turn a blindeye to things we know to be wrong, butnot so the readers of Electrical Businesswho take their profession and the safety18 The current state of the transformer industryThis article addresses some of the market changes that are contributingto the rising cost of transformer manufacturing, and provides insighton what will drive escalating manufacturing costs in the near future.19 VDV challenges in industrial applicationsVoice, data and video (VDV) systems in industrial plants are certainlynot new to the electrician but, in just the last few years, these systemshave gone up in speed and increased in importance. With manyplants operating on a JIT (just-in-time) system, time losses resultingfrom VDV systems failure cannot be tolerated.From the editor ▼Putting a professional, safe foot forwardON THE COVER8 Future-proof your clientswith 10GBase-T cablingof their crews seriously.And, as this is the time of year formaking resolutions for the new year,I resolve to do my part in better promotinggood safety practices so that,eventually, every electrical workerreturns home in the same conditionhe left for work that day.On that note, the ElectricalBusiness family wishes you and yoursa festive and safe holiday season.CONTENTSThis past summer, IEEE approved Standard 802.3an for 10-gigabyte Ethernetover twisted-pair cabling (10GBase-T). While the cabling and connectivity componentshave been around for a couple of years, there was very little demandfor them. Now, with a standard in place, manufacturers can start producingnetwork cards and other components that will start to drive the market.REGIONAL FOCUS10 Atlantic FocusPrince Edward Island has set anew target for reducing reliance onimported fossil fuels, strengtheningthe economy and protecting theenvironment, and NewfoundlandPower has had its 2007 CapitalBudget approved, meaning they’ll beinvesting about $62 million in 2007.DEPARTMENTS4 Industry News6 Personalities13 From the Legal DeskThe duty of fairnessin tendering situations14 Trucks for the TradeThis tundra may warm your heart16 Meet the PlayersOEL’s Richard Cullis20 Products22 Calendar43 Library44 EB Careers45 Marketplace46 Code FileSection 18: Get familiarwith some new terms46 Code ConundrumNEW!p. 14page 10www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 3

INDUSTRY NEWSstruction investment, largely explained by moreconstruction in maintenance buildings.Overall, 12 census metropolitan areas recordedgains in investment. Calgary recorded the largestincrease in industrial construction spending,which hit $67 million. Toronto posted the largestreduction. Canadian manufacturers continued toface increased production costs, vigorous globalcompetition and a strong Canadian dollar. Also, theindustrial capacity utilization rate declined in themanufacturing sector for third straight quarter.CEEA again ranks Canadian jurisdictionson energy efficiencyoffice complex, Eaton desired to occupy asingle-floor, single-tenant facility,” Tlustosadmits. “By moving to such a facility, betterbusiness synergies would be achieved... and Eaton would truly have a corporatehead office for its Canadian operations.”Hubbell Wiring comingto a home near youThis October, Hubbell Wiring Systems(HWS) entered the residential marketwith the launch of its homeSelect electricalwiring devices and netSelect communications,data and structured wiringproducts. It represents the largest singleproduct development program in thecompany’s history.The homeSelect electrical wiringdevices and netSelect product launchincludes standard and decorator-stylereceptacles and switches, GFCIs, lightingcontrols, wallplates and weatherresistantcovers, lamp holders, electricalaccessories, residential delivery systems,VDV products and structured wiringsystems. The products are currently beingmarketed through HWS Wiring Device-Kellems, Bryant and Premise Wiringwholesale channel partners throughoutNorth America.Call for GE Edison Award competitionGE Consumer & Industrial has madethe call for entries for the 24th annualGE Edison Award competition, throughwhich GE recognizes excellence and qualityin professional lighting designs thatsignificantly employ GE lamps. The competitionis open to professional designers,architects, engineers and consultants.Entries are judged on functional excellence;architectural compatibility; effectiveuse of products and techniques; appropriatecolour, form and texture revelation;and energy and cost effectiveness.All entrants will be invited to anawards ceremony that will take place 07May 2007 in New York, N.Y., on theevening prior to the opening of LightFair2007. All lighting projects submittedfor award consideration must have beencompleted between 01 January 2006and 31 December 2006. Entries must bereceived by 10 January 2007. Visit www.geedisonaward.com for details.NAED releases value-addedservices research resultsA new report from the NAED EducationResearch Foundation, “Value-Added:Assessing Service Offerings of ElectricalDistributors,” answers the question: Whatnew value-added services would my electricalcontractor customers like to see?Conducted by Scott Benfield of BenfieldConsulting Inc., the research report iscontinued on page 7The Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance (CEEA)has issued its sixth annual report card highlightingthe progress the federal and provincial governmentshave made toward reducing energy demand andconsumption. The report also recognizes the rolethat efficiency and conservation have in improvingCanada’s competitiveness, and reducing air pollutionand greenhouse gas emissions. The grades arebased on the performance between January 1 andDecember 31, 2005. Ken Elsey, CEEA’s presidentand CEO, said that while no jurisdiction receiveda failing grade, New Brunswick dropped from a B+to a C+ and Alberta failed to live up to its potential,receiving a D+.CABLE BUS FEEDER SYSTEMThe Most Technically Advanced Electrical Power Delivery System !Eaton boasts new Electrical Canadianoperations HQAfter about 12 months from land grading to interiorfinishing, Eaton Cutler-Hammer’s ElectricalCanadian operations head office in Burlington,Ont. is open for business.“This facility provides a professional environmentwhere our customers realize we are committedto excellence in everything we do,” saysPaul Tlustos, marketing communications manager.“From providing electrical products and solutionsand servicing customer needs to being responsibleto our communities and providing an environmentfor our employees to succeed.”The new facility houses executive management,finance, human resources, a customer service centre,information technology, marketing and training, aswell as a product development lab for prototyping,testing and certifying unique electrical solutions.“After 21 years in a multi-tenant, two-storey• FULL POWER RANGE• REDUCED POWER LOSSES• LOWEST COST SYSTEM• SUPPRESSES EMF’S• FREE AIR AMPACITY RATING1 West Pearce Street, Richmond Hill, Ontario,Canada L4B 3K3• SIMPLIFIED INSTALLATION• EXPANDABILITY• ENHANCED ENCLOSURE• ABOVE AND BELOWGROUND INSTALLATIONUnited Wire and Cable offers a complete turnkey solution from site engineering assessment to complete installationresulting in the most feasible and reliable system at the lowest cost.Tel.:(905) 771-0099 or 1-800-265-8697Toll Free Fax: 1-800-461-4689 or email to:sales@unitedwc.com www.unitedwc.comCUSINFO NO. 5www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 5

continued from page 5based on data gathered from over 400 customers representingcommercial contractors, new residential contractors, residentialremodel contractors, manufacturing, and institutionalMRO. Here is what the report concluded:Highest-ranked86% - Same-day delivery73% - Emergency delivery within two hours71% - Immediate credit on warranties/returns70% - Early-morning delivery51% - Project explosion software to develop materials list45% - Consulting services to re-engineer products44% - Personal account manager44% - Business management education40% - Boom truck for delivering heavy items39% - Counter bypass for spot buys39% - E-commerce site with pictorial contentThe information contained in the report is free to NAEDmembers. To learn more, visit www.naed.org.ConstructJob wins IEC Software Product of the YearAccubid’s Web-based project management system for contractors,ConstructJob, has been honoured with IEC’s InnovativeProduct of the Year award for 2006 in the software category.Only one product in each category received this award, whichwas determined by a vote of attendees at the IEC NationalConference and Expo.IALD Education Trust student subsidy recipientsThe International Associationof Lighting Designers (IALD)Education Trust selected the recipientsof its Education Subsidy Awardprogram, providing winners from 16different schools across four countrieswith the opportunity to attendEnlighten 2006 in San Diego, Calif.,the 6th Annual IALD EducationConference & Annual Meeting.Among the 16 winners were two Canadians: NatalieBadenduck of Mount Royal College (Calgary, Alta.) andErica Letchford Kwantlen of University College (Richmond,B.C.). The 16 winners stood out as leaders and innovators,with the potential to further the lighting design industry.Invensys launches FireX house display programInvensys Controls launched a new program that offers itselectrical wholesale channel distributors a free FireX housedisplay to help boost sales of FireX smoke and CO alarms.Distributors will receive the display after ordering the specifiedminimum quantity of alarm products, and the FireX salesteam will assist with display set up and stocking. The programis open through 30 March 2007, or while quantities are available.The display is available in both official languages.Siemens extends relationshipwith The Home Depot SupplyExtending their existing relationship with The Home Depot(HD) Supply Canada, HD Supply’s 11 Litemor branchescoast-to-coast are now Authorized Construction ProductDistributors for Siemens Canada Ltd. Effective this November,the distribution agreement builds on the strong relationshipbetween Siemens and The HD Supply’s four Sesco/Quescobranches in the Greater Toronto Area.The following products are now available in all HDSupply’s Litemor branches:• load centres, safety switches and mouldedcase circuit breakers• switchboards, busway and motor control centres• industrial control products forthe construction marketplaceThe 20,000th CFOT is certifiedIn October, the Fiber Optic Association Inc. (FOA) certifiedits 20,000th CFOT–Certified Fiber Optic Technician. Sinceits founding in 1995, FOA has approved over 160 schoolsand training organizations teaching fibre optics, and providedfree educational materials to over 5000 high schools to introducestudents to the subject. Over 1800 installers are certifiedthrough Mississauga Training Consultants.INDUSTRY NEWSVanteriors adds Western facilityVanteriors is investing in a 25,000-sf facility in Calgary tobetter serve the needs of its customers in British Columbia,Alberta and Saskatchewan. Opening this fall, the newcomplex promises improved reach, quicker delivery times,reduced transportation costs and greater installation capabilityfor Western Canadian customers.Schneider Electric employees donate award moneyA team of 30 employees from Schneider Electric’s NorthAmerican Operating Division were awarded one of the company’stop honours—the 2005 Global Trophies Award—thendecided to donate its $12,800 in prize money to the HomeSafety Council.“We are grateful that Schneider Electric and its employeeshave made this generous donation to our organization,” saidcouncil president Meri-K Appy. “With this support, we cancontinue our mission to promote safety in the home and preventhome-related injuries that result in nearly 20,000 deathsand 21 million medical visits each year.”The team included several members from Canada, including:Steve Burola, Rakesh Patel, Daniel Roberts and Allen Hajian.Streetlight Intelligence signs distribution agreementBritish Columbia’s Streetlight Intelligence Inc. (STI)—adesigner, manufacturer and marketer of products and servicesfor the streetlighting industry—signed an exclusive distributionagreement with Imrex Pte Ltd., a Singaporean engineeringfirm doing business throughout Southeast Asia. Imrexwill use STI’s Lumen IQ system in its bid on a tender issuedby the City of Jakarta calling for energy saving technology for22,000 of the Indonesian capital’s streetlights.Wardrop acquires Elecsar’s substationdesign operationsWardrop Engineering has acquired the assets of the Thornhilloffice of Elecsar Engineering, incorporating them into Wardrop’sPower Division. Elecsar has been active in project and designactivities for high-voltage substations, explains Wardrop CEOShayne Smith, adding this acquisition places Wardrop in a positionof leadership with respect to transmission and distributiondesign and procurement services in Ontario.Wardrop is an international consulting firm providingintegrated, multi-disciplined engineering, environmental,IT and business solutions to the infrastructure, mining andminerals, nuclear, oil and gas/industrial, power, and productdevelopment sectors. It was recently recognized—for thesixth time—as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers and toprankedengineering employer.Home Lighting Control Alliance is bornLeading industry playershave formed a newmarketing initiative aimedat raising the awareness,value and benefits of lightingcontrol systems for the home. Named “Home LightingControl Alliance (HLCA)”, this group of lighting controlcompanies, systems integrators, retailers, distributors andindustry support organizations will fund a promotional campaignto share the benefits of lighting controls with consumers,home builders and the professional trade.Partners include: Crestron, HAI, Leviton, LightolierControls, LiteTouch, Pass & Seymour Legrand, Square D,Vantage Controls, and WattStopper Legrand.The alliance will create a consistent, multi-level messagingplatform focusing on residential applications for new construction,renovations and quality retrofit installations. Coreproduct areas will include dimming system types (hard-wiredand wireless), control keypads and interfaces, and systemintegration for a room or the whole house.Power Measurement finds funding from SDTCSchneider Electric’s Power Measurement of British Columbia hassecured $2.5 million in funding from Sustainable DevelopmentTechnology Canada (SDTC)—subject to final contract negotiations—tosupport the development and demonstration of itsenterprise energy management (EEM) software and hardwareplatform. Enhancements to the EEM technology will helpdeliver the intelligence and control needed by commercial andindustrial energy consumers to improve energy efficiency andreduce energy-related emissions.superb value.Surround sound,On-Q/Legrand Home Theater —everything you need.Homeowners want the thrilling theater experienceof great surround sound. On-Q/Legrand HomeTheater Systems and Speakers bring you everythingyou need to easily install quality surroundsound, including a complete selection of greatsoundingin-wall and in-ceiling speakers. Get allthe details from your P&S distributor — or visitwww.passandseymour.com/theater.www.passandseymour.com/theater©2006, Pass & Seymour/LegranddependabilityMaximumP&S Healthcare Products for hospital-gradeperformance and safety.Offer the dependability your healthcare customersdemand with P&S Hospital Grade Products. They’reavailable with convenient screw-pressure platetermination, in P&S PlugTail models with quick,one-click termination, and in tamper-resistant types(including GFCIs) for pediatric-care areas. Get allthe details from your P&S distributor — or visitwww.passandseymour.com/hospital.www.passandseymour.com/hospital©2006, Pass & Seymour/Legrandwhere it’s needed most.INFO NO. 6INFO NO. 7www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 7Legrand_EB_Oct2006 1 9/18/06 11:39:52 AM

By Earle GoodwinFUTURE-PROOFyour clients with10GBase-T cablingPhoto by Erin RileyOver the summer, the IEEE (Institute of Electrical andElectronics Engineers) approved Standard 802.3anfor 10-gigabyte Ethernet over twisted-pair cabling(10GBase-T). While the cabling and connectivity componentshave been around for a couple of years, there wasvery little demand for them. Now, with a standard in place,manufacturers can start producing network cards and othercomponents that will start to drive the market.The major difference between installing data cabling andelectrical wiring is the former’s intolerance of sloppy installationpractices. This becomes more and more critical asfrequency increases.It seems a new problem arises each time speed is increased.All the specifications had to be tightened with 10GBase-Tcabling, but the new problem that had to be overcome was‘alien crosstalk’. Crosstalk is the signal from one conductorappearing as noise in another conductor. In lower-speed cableplants, this would show up in conductors within the samecable. Near-End Crosstalk (NEXT) is produced at the end ofthe cable where the signal is being generated (as opposed toFar-End Crosstalk [FEXT], which is produced at the otherend of the cable).In the older cabling plants, crosstalk was counteracted, inpart, by putting twists in the cable. If you were to take anold voice cable apart, you would see that it contained fourconductors that ran parallel to each other down the lengthof the cable. Contrast this with an unshielded twisted-pair(UTP) data cable and you will notice that there are eightconductors twisted together in four pairs, which are thenfurther twisted around each other. As the categories ofcabling were created to support higher speeds, you wouldfind more twists to the inch.Alien NEXT (ANEXT) is crosstalk generated between adjacentcables (as opposed to conductors). The worst configurationis six cables wrapped around one, where the central cablewould receive ANEXT from each of its neighbours. This wasa major technical hurdle for manufacturers to overcome.However, CommScope’s Systimax GigaSPEED X10Dovercame the crosstalk problem by fluting the outer jacket ofthe cable. Jim Young, RCDD, CommScope technical manager,explains that, “Systimax came up with new cable designwhere outer jacket is fluted towards core. The flutes add distancefrom cable to outer jacket to decrease coupling betweencables, which decreases by the square of the distance”.Belden also approached the problem by increasing thedistance between the conductors, but their design is quiteBelden’s 10GX IDC System is engineered to deliver 10G performancefor handling 10GBase-T data networking and multimedia applicationdifferent. Unlike CommScope, which kept its cables roundin cross section, Belden’s is oval shaped at any particularpoint. According to Andre Mouton, IBDN 10GX productline manager at Belden CDT, “This SpiralFlex (patent pending)design is created by the addition of two elements intothe cable. The first is a unique cross-web which separates thepairs, and the second is a dielectric filler that spirals aroundthe core”. The combination of the two elements, Moutoncontinues, breaks up the pattern of like pairs between adjacentcables coming together in a consistent manner alongthe length of cable and increases the physical separationbetween pairs.These cables are physically bigger than their older counterparts(0.31-in. versus 0.22-in.), which will affect conduit fill.Both solutions claim to effectively manage alien crosstalk,but both can also be easily undone by sloppy installation. Itis common practice to dress cables in to an installation bywrapping them together. It has always been bad practice towrap them so tightly that the cable is deformed. As you canimagine, doing so with these cables would totally defeat thedesign elements that are in place to control alien crosstalk.The other way to undo all the good created by these cabledesigns is to terminate them poorly. In the older systems,the installer would have to untwist the pairs to terminatethem onto the jack or the patch panel. Good practice woulddictate that you would preserve the twist as close to thetermination point as possible, but some untwisting could betolerated by the system. The problem is that each untwistedconductor becomes a little antenna, which broadcasts andreceives signals from its neighbours. This is such a problemwith a 10Gig solution that both of the manufacturersmentioned are engineering termination methods that limituntwisting. As Andre Mouton puts it, “with this, Fridayafternoon’s terminations are as good as those made onMonday morning”.Another aspect to higher speed cabling plants is the specializationof the components that go into it. You couldprobably have gotten away with using cable from onemanufacturer and connectivity components from anotherin a Cat 3 system. Today, however, the cabling systems areexactly that—systems. The real players in the field all turnout excellent products. I’ll leave it to them to convince youas to which is the superior one. But at 10GBase-T speeds,you have to install an end-to-end solution.And a Systimax jack just doesn’t work on a Belden cable.Where is all this headed?Moore’s law states that computing speed and memory sizedoubles every 18 months. This means that the top-of-thelinecomputer you buy today will be working at one-quarterthe speed and have one-quarter the memory of the same-(or lower-) priced computer you will buy in three years.Put another way, the computer you’d use as a server todaywill become your desktop computer somewhere not too fardown the road.10GBase-T solutions were created to replicate the speedof fibre optic cabling on cheaper and more popular copper;and rumour has it that the next step is to find a 40Gig coppersolution. This doesn’t mean that the need for fibre willbe eliminated. It does mean, however, that fibre isn’t as likelyto be running to your desktop as some people might havepredicted a decade ago.Should you be recommending 10GBase-T solutions toyour customers?“That depends. Installing Cat 6a allows building managersto future-proof their cabling plant,” says Jim Young,adding, “In a new installation, if it costs 30% more to buyCat 6a over Cat 6, and you implement a 10Gig solution inthe next 18 years, you’ll receive an 8% return over having toremove the Cat 6 and pull new cable.”Earle Goodwin is a Toronto-based freelance writer and marketingconsultant specializing in electrical construction, and regularly contributesto Electrical Business.8 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.com

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Photos courtesy EEFThe nacelle, whichhouses the generator,weighs about90 tonnes, whileeach individual bladeweighs 6.7 tonnes.ATLANTICFOCUSThe foundation is octagonal in shape, 17 m from side to side, and3 m deep. Each one contains about 80 to 85 truckloads concrete.P.E.I. fuelling economywith new energy targetPrince Edward Island has set a new target for reducing relianceon imported fossil fuels, strengthening the economyand protecting the environment: 30% of its total energyneeds from local, renewable resources by 2016.“Each year, some $440 million leaves [P.E.I.] as fossil fuels areimported to heat and power our homes and fuel our vehicles,”Premier Pat Binns pointed out. “This target is about keepingmore of those dollars in P.E.I. to strengthen our economy.And it is about creating new opportunities for Island farmersand a healthier environment...” He added that it’s time to raisethe bar and strengthen P.E.I.’s position as the greenest provincein Canada.The province will reach the 30x16 target in stages, saidBinns, with the first step to produce 10% of total energy needsfrom local renewable resources by 2010. To do that, the islandwill build on the success of the Renewable Energy Strategylaunched in 2004, where almost all of the 19 action items havebeen achieved.When it comes to electricity, Jamie Ballem, minister of environment,energy and forestry, said wind will play an importantrole in the energy mix, with the first step being the completionof the Eastern Kings Wind Farm later this year. However, thereis also potential for biofuels, biomass and biogas to meet someof the electricity needs.On the subject of wind farms, members of P.E.I.’s governmentcaucus toured the Eastern Kings Wind Farm construction siteseveral weeks ago (see photos). When completed later this year,the farm will supply about 7.5% of the province’s electricity anddisplace 70,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases annually.The $56-million project is owned and operated by the PEIEnergy Corp., and consists of 10 Vestas V-90 turbines—eachwith a capacity of 3MW—for a total capacity of 30MW. Annualproduction is estimated at about 90-95 million kilowatt hours,which should power about 12,000 homes.Newfoundland Powerinvesting $62 million next yearNewfoundland Power Inc. has had its 2007 CapitalBudget approved by the Newfoundland andLabrador Board of Commissioners of PublicUtilities. As such, the company is looking at investingabout $62 million in 2007 to strengthen its electricitysystem and enhance reliability for customers.The company recognizes that its ability to providesafe and reliable electricity service to customers at thelowest cost largely depends on the quality and conditionof its capital assets. This is why, explains companypresident and CEO Karl Smith, “... the main focus ofthe 2007 capital expenditures continues to be the refurbishmentand upgrading of our electricity system”.About $18.8 million will be used to refurbishthe Rattling Brook hydroelectric plant in CentralNewfoundland, which began operations in 1958. Thecompany feels improvements to this plant will provideenough clean energy to displace about 10,500 barrels ofoil annually.Approval of the 2007 Capital Budget allows the companyto begin detailed construction planning and materialsprocurement so that work can commence as earlyas weather permits in the new year. Other highlights ofthe budget include rebuilds of major transmission lineson the Bonavista Peninsula, Bay de Verde Peninsula andSouthern Shore.Newfoundland Power has an asset base ofabout $1.1 billion that is geographically dispersedthroughout the island and includes: 23 hydroelectricplants; six thermal plants; 130 substations;about 270,000 distribution and 27,000 transmissionpoles; and 10,000 kilometres of distributionand transmission lines.We Just MadeCable Management a Snap.Kwikpath is a Plenum, Riser, and General Purpose Raceway System designed tomake the installation and management of interior fiber optic andcommunication cables fast, easy and worry-free.No more building code compliance concerns. No more abandoned cablechallenges. Cable installation and removal is now a snap.Kwikpath raceways are available in 3/4" to 2" sizes in convenient coil andreel lengths. And with no special tools or equipment needed, ourpatented snap-on fittings can easily join or terminate raceway tubing.Without KwikpathWith KwikpathInstalling a totally integrated Kwikpath raceway systemwill ensure your communications network complies withthe National Building Code of Canada for the healthand safety of building occupants.Kwikpath is also the only raceway and fitting combination thatis available in all sizes. It is approved as an integratedsystem.So on your next cabling project, snap up some Kwikpathraceways and fittings, and you’ll be up and running inno time.To find out more, visit us atwww.kwikpath.ipexinc.comwww.kwikpath.ipexinc.com • Canada Toll Free: 1-866-473-946210 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comINFO NO. 9

INFO NO. 10

OVERCOMINGthe dangers of workingIN CONFINED SPACESMany workers are injured and killed each year whileworking in confined spaces and, what’s worse, theirwould-be rescuers account for an estimated 60 percent of the fatalities. A confined space (CS) can be more hazardousthan regular workspaces for many reasons, which iswhy, quite simply, no worker should enter such a space whenits safety is questionable.Generally speaking, a CS is an enclosed or partiallyenclosed space that:• is not primarily designed or intended for human occupancy;• has a restricted entrance or exit by way of location,size or means; or• can represent a risk to the health and safety of anyonewho enters, due to one or more of the following factors:• its design, construction, location or atmosphere;• the materials or substances in it;• work activities being carried out in it; or• the presence of mechanical, process and safety hazards.It can be found both above and below ground in just aboutany workplace and, despite its name, a confined space is notnecessarily small. Examples include utility vaults, tanks, sewers,pipes and access shafts—even ditches and trenches whenaccess or egress is limited.Confined space hazards and assessmentAll the usual hazards one finds in a regular workspace can alsobe found in a confined space, only they are made even morehazardous. They can include:• Poor air quality: There may be an insufficient amount ofoxygen for workers to breathe. The atmosphere might containa poisonous substance that could make the worker illor even cause him to lose consciousness. Natural ventilationalone is often insufficient for maintaining breathable air.• Chemical exposures due to skin contact or ingestion, aswell as inhalation of ‘bad’ air.• Fire: There may be an explosive/flammable atmospheredue to liquids/gases and dusts that, if ignited, would leadto fire or explosion.• Process-related hazards, such as residual chemicals, or therelease of contents of a supply line.• Noise.• Safety hazards, such as the moving parts of equipment,structural hazards, things that could cause entanglement,slips, falls, etc.• Radiation.• Temperature extremes, including atmospheric and surface.• Shifting or collapse of bulk material.• Barrier failure resulting in a flood or releaseof free-flowing solid.• Uncontrolled energy, including electrical shock.• Reduced visibility.• Biological hazards.You must, therefore, evaluate numerous factors when lookingfor hazards as there is a smaller margin for error and theconsequences are more serious. In some cases, the conditionsare always extremely hazardous, while others only become lifethreatening under an unusual combination of circumstances.This variability and unpredictability is why a hazard assessmentis extremely important and must be taken very seriously eachand every time.Some hazard assessment examples include:• The entrance/exit might not allow workers to get out in timeshould there be a flood or collapse of free-flowing solid.• Self-rescue by workers is difficult.• Rescuing victims is difficult. The interior configuration ofa confined space typically makes it hard to move peopleand equipment.12 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comWhen access or egress is limited, even ditches and trenches can beconsidered confined spaces and should be treated accordingly.• Conditions can change very quickly.• The area outside can impact the conditions in the CS andvice versa.• Work activities may introduce hazards not initially there.Preparing to enter a confined spaceWorkers must determine whether they’re dealing with a confinedspace before entering it. If so, then they must considerwhether a CS hazard assessment and control program hasbeen followed. Underlying all this should be the fundamentalquestion: Is it absolutely necessary that the work be carriedout inside? (In many instances where deaths have occurred,the work could have been performed elsewhere.)Before entering, a properly trained and experienced personshould identify and evaluate all the potential hazards, and testthe air from outside using detection equipment with remoteprobes and sampling lines. Care should be taken to ensure thatair is tested throughout the confined space: side-to-side and topto-bottom.(Depending on the nature of the potential hazardsand the work involved, air testing may need to be ongoing.)Air sampling should show that:• The oxygen content is within safe limits:not too little and not too much.• A hazardous atmosphere(i.e. toxic gases, flammable atmosphere) is not present.• Ventilation equipment is operating properly.The results are to be recorded on the Entry Permit along with theequipment/method(s) used (more on Entry Permits later).Controlling the hazardsThe traditional hazard control methods found in regularworksites—such as engineering and administrative controls,and personal protective equipment (PPE)—can be effectivein a confined space. Engineering controls are designed toremove the hazard while administrative controls and PPE tryto minimize contact with it. However, the control methodsoften require additional, special precautions.Maintaining air qualityMechanical ventilation (i.e. blowers, fans) is usually necessaryfor maintaining air quality as natural ventilation is typicallyunreliable and insufficient. When mechanical ventilation isprovided, there should be a warning system in place to immediatelynotify workers of a hazard or failure in the equipment.Take care that the air being provided is ‘clean’ and do notsubstitute oxygen for fresh air as this increases the risk of fireand explosion. Also, consider the ease of air movement withinthe space due to the danger posed by ‘pockets’ of toxic gases.Preventing fire and explosionWork involving a flame or that could produce a source ofignition (i.e. hot work) should be avoided unless:• All flammable gases, liquids and vapours are removedprior to the start of any hot work.1. Mechanical ventilation is usually used to keep the concentrationof any explosive or flammable hazardoussubstance less than 10% of its Lower Explosive Limit.2. Oxygen content should be less than 23% but maintainedat levels greater than 18%. (These numbers canvary slightly between jurisdictions.)• Surfaces coated with combustible material are cleanedor shielded.While performing hot work, the concentrations of oxygen andcombustible materials must be monitored to ensure oxygenlevels remain in the proper range while the levels of combustiblematerials do not exceed 10% of their Lower ExplosiveLimits. In special cases it may not be possible, and additionalprecautions must be taken to ensure the safety of workers.When potential flammable atmosphere hazards are identifiedduring initial testing, the space should be cleaned/purged,ventilated and tested again before entry is allowed.Controlling energy sourcesAll potentially hazardous energy sources must be de-energizedand locked out prior to entering so that equipment cannot beturned on accidentally.Other safety precautionsMany other situations or hazards may be present, so ensurethat all hazards are controlled. Remove any liquids or freeflowingsolids to eliminate the risk of drowning or suffocation.Similarly, ensure a barrier is present to prevent liquidsor free-flowing solids from entering. Physically disconnect allpipes, or bolt isolation blanks in place. (Simply closing valvesis insufficient.) Ensure the opening is large enough to allowthe passage of a person using PPE.When next EB looks at confined spaces, we’ll explore he nuances ofdeveloping a hazard assessment and control program, which includesentry permits and the safety watch.This article was adapted from material provided by the CanadianCentre for Occupational Health and Safety

From the Legal DeskThe duty of fairnessin tendering situationsBy Stephen TatrallyayIt is generally accepted that people who make a deal witheach other should be held to it. This is, in fact, one of thebasic foundations of Contract Law. That said, the questionthat arises in the Law of Tender is a deceptively simpleone: have the parties to a tender (those asking for tendersand those responding) made a deal with each other? If so,what should parties to the tender process expect from eachother and what rules, if any, govern their relationship?Ron takes on The Queen... and losesThis issue came to a head back in 1981 in a Supreme Courtof Canada decision in the case of Ron Engineering andConstruction (Eastern) Ltd. v. The Queen. In that case, aRon Engineering rep submitted a quote on a Government ofCanada job, but inadvertently left out the pricing for an entiresegment of the work. Ron was the low bidder because of thisoversight, though you wouldn’t have known it from the faceof the tender. Ron refused to sign the contract, so the governmentgave the job to the next lowest bidder. It also refused toreturn a Bid Bond posted by Ron; indeed, the governmenteven made a call on the bond for the difference between Ron’squote and the price submitted by the successful bidder.Both Ron and its bonding company were of the mindthat there had been no contract and, therefore, no breachto provide a basis for such a lawsuit. After all, basic contractlaw tells us that there must be an offer and an acceptance(which is communicated to the party making the offer) for acontract to exist. However, the Supreme Court decided thatthe government’s tender package was the offer to enter intoa contract with the lowest compliant bidder—an offer thatRon accepted when it submitted its tender price.The Court characterized this as Contract A, whereas theactual contract for the performance of the work is referredto as Contract B.Work that is put out for tender constitutes an offer by anowner or GC under which he promises to treat all tenderersfairly, that he will not select a successful party from a noncomplianttender, and that he will award the actual constructioncontract (Contract B) to the successful tenderer. Thisoffer is considered accepted when a tenderer delivers a pricefor the work, unless it is clear on the face of his bid that hehas made a mistake. This acceptance establishes Contract Abetween tenderer and owner/GC.Ron’s mistake could and should not give it an opportunity toavoid Contract A, otherwise tenders would be meaningless.Granted, the decision in Ron gave rise to almost as manyproblems as it solved. Soon you had people arguing thatthe owner/GC receiving the price must not grab it when amistake had clearly been made. Others complained aboutmunicipalities whose policy was to show preference to localcontractors over other tenderers, and so on. Watch for mynext column on this subject, where I discuss some of theseother issues in more detail and offer some practical strategiesfor avoiding them.The material and information contained in this column is not a legalopinion. For more specific interpretations, feel free to contact theauthor or consult your own legal counsel.Stephen Tatrallyay is a prominent Toronto Construction Lawyer and canbe reached at (416) 482-5164 or via e-mail at statrallyay@rogers.com. He is also a member of EB’s Editorial Advisory Board.INFO NO. 11www. mag.com • DECEMBER 2006 • 13

Trucks forthe tradeThis TUNDRA may warm your heartIn an effort to seize a greater chunk of the professionaltrades market, Toyota recently unveiled long-bed versionsof the all-new 2007 Tundra full-sized pick-up atthe annual National Truck Equipment Association (NTEA)product conference.The timing was important for Toyota, as NTEA membersare the companies that develop, manufacture andmarket parts, accessories and systems (i.e. lift gates, ladderracks and tool boxes) dedicated to the work truck market.By working with NTEA, Toyota is giving associationmembers time to develop compatible work equipment,and have those products to market by the time the newTundra launches in February.In sessions closed to the public (not to mention othertruck manufacturers), NTEA members had an early, firstlookat new, yet-to-be-launched pick-up trucks. Afterward,Toyota participated in a measuring session where it showed,for the first time, two truck configurations developed specificallyfor work truck customers who consider their full-sizedpick-up truck their most important tool.What we know about the new TundraThe new Tundra long-bed will be available in RegularandDouble-Cab versions. With a 165-in. wheelbase, theDouble-Cab Long-Bed will be the longest pick-up in theToyota truck lineup. It will be suitable for carrying a crew ofsix plus maximum cargo. The Regular-Cab Long-Bed willprovide extra storage capacity behind the driver’s seat andgenerous interior volume. Both long-bed configurations willcome with a choice of three engines, including a 5.7L V8offering maximum towing of well over 10,000 lb, and a payloadcapacity competing with the best in the half-ton class.With an 8-ft, 1-in. bed and substantial bed depth, theTundra Long-Bed will have the deepest box in its class belowthe rails. To maximize flexibility, the bed will be equippedwith the expected six standard-sized stake pockets, fourcorner tie-down hooks, as well as an optional deck rail system.Even the tailgate has commercial customers in mind,because it is both lockable and easily removable in the eventthat a utility cap is installed.Tundra’s colour palette includes three popular non-metalliccolours: White, Red and Black. All Tundras will be equippedwith oversized door handles and controls, designed so thatwork crews can jump in and out of the truck to move arounda site without taking off their gloves. The cab is designedto function as a mobile office with a centre console capableof holding a laptop or hanging file folders. On bench-seatmodels, the centre seat section folds down to create a flatsurface for use as a mobile desk. The glove box is big enoughto hold a standard Thermos and, to aid in safe hands-freecommunication, Bluetooth capability is available.Toyota expects the SR5-grade Tundra Long-Beds will bea popular configuration for foremen, supervisors or owneroperators,as it offers a variety of functional options, appearanceaccessories, and upgraded fabrics and trim. Regular-Cab models will feature heavy-duty vinyl flooring and basicequipment targeted specifically for work applications andcommercial use.Series+RSMDesigned by electricians.Engineered by Fluke.MVNew Fluke 117 Multimeter with non-contact voltage is designed for use incommercial buildings, hospitals, and schools.Learn more. Do more./dmmINFO NO. 1214 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comIf you work in demanding settings like commercial buildings, hospitals andschools, this Fluke true-rms multimeter is designed for you.• VoltAlert technology for non-contact voltage detection• Large, backlit display for working in poorly-lit areas• AutoVolt automatically selects ac or dc• Prevents false readings due to ghost voltageTry the 117/322 Electricians Combo Kit: the completesolution for electrical troubleshooting workFrom5KVto15KVUp to 60,000 HPBENSHAWADVANCED CONTROLS & DRIVES(519) 291-5112 www.benshaw.comINFO NO. 13We havea starterfor allyourmotorcontrolneeds!20 thAnniversary1986 - 2006Benshaw_EB_June2006 1 6/6/06 9:54:51 AM

True to its name the F-150 isone tough truck. Riding on thestrongest frame in its class,it lets you haul a best in class3060 lbs. of payload and towa mammoth 9900 lbs.* Add tothat a heavy duty 3-valve 5.4LTriton ® V8 † , and it’s a trueworkhorse. But once you’reinside, it’s a different animal.At sixty-three decibels inhighway traffic, the genuineleather interior ‡ of the F-150 isas quiet as a luxury vehicle.And the detailed craftsmanshipis for the eyes to see andthe soul to enjoy. Becausewe believe in the old saying,when you work hard,you play hard.RETHINK TRUCKford.caModel shown: 2006 F-150 Lariat with optional equipment. *Maximum payload and towing capacity will vary based on series, passenger and cargo loads, and optional equipment installed on vehicle.Best in class based on full-size pickup trucks under 8500 GVWR, when properly equipped. †Available option. ‡Genuine leather available with FX4 and Lariat models, and select packages.INFO NO. 14

Meet the playersCHAMPIONINGthe electrician’s statusOEL chair Richard Cullis“In our industry, most owners are great with their handsand technical expertise, but not always so great when itcomes to sales and knowing the true cost of things.”As far back as he can remember, Richard Cullis—Ontario Electrical League (OEL) chair and presidentof Dial One Wolfedale Electric—has always beenambitious and dreamt of running his own business.Though Richard was born in Glasgow, Scotland, inOctober 1944, as the youngest of four children, it wasn’tlong before the family resettled in Edinborough. “In fact, Itell people I’m from Edinborough because that’s where I wasraised,” he explains.As a boy, he engaged in all kinds of jobs, especially with hisonly-somewhat-older brother, such as milk and newspaperdelivery to delivering baked goods evenings and Saturdays.However, youth was not to be misspent in those days, asteens essentially left high school at the age of 15 to seeka career, unless they planned on attending university (andcould afford to, of course).“I actually stayed in school an extra year before decidingto enter an electrical apprenticeship,” says Richard. “At thattime, being an electrician was held in very high regard, andentering the trade was very serious... my father had to gowith me to sign indenture papers at the company where Iwould complete my apprenticeship.” Richard also tells us that both his father and older brotherof 16 years helped him decide to get into the trades in thefirst place. “My father always told us that, when you getinto the trades, you always have something to fall back on,”laughs Richard, “But my eldest brother was a carpenter bytrade, and had risen to some prominence on the worksite,so this also helped show me the possibilities that came withgetting a skilled trade.”Hard work was another thing Richard learned fromthese early role models. Though the hours were not ideal,Richard’s father worked as a cinema manager, and one of hisbrothers was a ladies hairstylist by the age of 19.Richard completed his electrical apprenticeship in 1965and embarked upon a career conducting piecework whereverhe could find it. Short six years later, Richard decided tomake Canada his home. He was 27.Arriving in Toronto, Richard found work at a small, lightindustrial maintenance and machine repair shop on BathurstStreet. Richard’s entrepreneurial spirit kicked in and, in1973, Richard—along with two colleagues—started a newcompany called Wolfedale Electric, named after the roadwhere their first trailer was located.Focusing on industrial maintenance and service work,the business grew at a steady rate and, in 1979, it enteredboth the construction market and the motor repair business.In 1982, Richard took over sole ownership of WolfedaleElectric with its one secretary and six electricians.By 1985, he grew the business to some 30 electriciansand over $2 million in revenue. That same year, he alsomade the decision that expansion would best be achieved byjoining the Dial One group of companies—a franchise andmarketing system for all trade companies. Throughout the1990s the business grew and today employs 125, averagesan annual growth rate of 15% to 18% and posts revenues inexcess of $20 million.As the chair of OELRichard has been in the electrical trade for several decades,and has been an OEL member since the early 1980s. Thisyear he became its chair, and he has an agenda.“I’ve been in the trade for 46years,” says Richard, “and I’veseen the respect for our tradefalling.” He tells me that it wasa big deal the day he decidedto become an electrician... itwas considered a great career.“So it really bothers me thatan industry that works withsuch a dangerous commodity[electricity] is being looked atby people who only focus onthe lowest price.”One of the problems, saysRichard addresses attendeesat the OEL golf Tournament.Richard, is that “In our industry, most owners are great withtheir hands and technical expertise, but not always so greatwhen it comes to sales and knowing the true cost of things”.He notes that society, in general, is trying to achieve Wal-Mart prices, “But that’s simply no good for our industry”.There’s also a shortage of skilled labour, says Cullis, andapprentice ratios have something to do with it. But hedoesn’t think we should go overboard as they have in BritishColumbia. “There, they waited too long to shore up theirlack of apprentices, so now they have one journeyman totwo apprentices in commercial work, and one journeymanto four apprentices in residential!” This can only lead totrouble, he warns.Richard is thankful that Ontario has finally introducedelectrical contractor licensing, for two main reasons. First, itwill help combat the underground economy, which is takingmoney out of the pockets of legitimate contractors and,secondly, it should help raise the prestige of electrical workto where it was when Richard entered the trade.Nowadays, Richard is spending a little less time at theshop and a little more time with OEL, but he remainsconstantly on the move. When he does get a free momenthere and there, he likes to play some golf, take a ride on hismotorbike or putter around on his boat, Current Affair. Andthough it may not seem obvious, Richard does tell us that,“At some point, I do want to retire”.Megger QualityAffordably PricedCSA APPROVED• Tough(Rubber Armored and Drop Tested to 3ft.)•Safe(Live Voltage Warning/Lockout)• Hands Free Operation(Remote Probe)1-800-297-9688Available at Torbram Electric Supplywww.megger.comINFO NO. 1516 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comINFO NO. 16

Taking Safetyto a new levelNew voltage-indicatingsafety switches for improvedpersonnel Safety.Now you can tell when voltage is presentin Square D safety switches, helping toprevent arc-flash hazards and electricshocks during maintenance work.Voltage monitors can be factory installedon Heavy Duty, 600V, 3 Pole, Type 3R/12and 4/4X stainless steel enclosures,on the line and/or the load side. Bright,high luminescent LEDs are highlyvisible and their readings are notaffected by ambient light.They can detect and indicate currentleakage greater than 2 mA or anyremaining voltage on the load-sideof the switch.Combined with many other safetyfeatures such as visible blades,viewing windows, and colour-codedhandles, Square D safety switchesare the industrial choice forpersonnel safety.Square DTurn It On.www.schneider-electric.caINFO NO. 17

The current state of thetransformer industryBy Wayne J. EdwardsAt times it seems as though everythingimportant to the electrical industrykeeps getting hit by escalating manufacturingcosts. This is particularly true of thetransformer industry. In fact, with rising costsof key transformer components, such as coresteel, copper, aluminum, oil, steel, paper insulation,freight and labour—not to mentionhigher energy costs and significant industrialgrowth in the Far East—Canadian manufacturershave been subject to some of the largestmaterial cost increases in the world.This article addresses some of the marketchanges that are contributing to the risingcost of transformer manufacturing, and providesinsight on what will drive escalatingmanufacturing costs in the near future.Transformer components broken downCore steelGrain-oriented core steel is essential tothe manufacturing process and representsthe largest percentage cost of production.Unfortunately, demand for this material—which is only produced in a few mills aroundthe world (none of which are in Canada)—iscurrently exceeding supply globally by about12%. While some new capacity was addedthis year, demand is expected to exceed supplyuntil 2009.Because of this demand, many of the coresteel mills have been running at full capacity,and putting off maintenance until it is really,really required. Putting off maintenance isnever a good thing: a Japanese mill had toshut down back in the spring for severalweeks because of this, causing a severe reductionin supply.These mills have put all transformer manufacturerson allocation for core steel, and anysteel that’s available outside the normal allocationis usually at significant premiums. (Coresteel has increased some 80% in Canada).Some mills continue to apply a surcharge,which can be as much as $0.17/lb. Severalmills announced price increases last summerand further increases will be applied in 2007.Some American manufacturers are advisingthat their core steel costs will increase up to80% in the new year.As the cost of power escalates, the demandfor higher-grade core steel increases. In thepast, with the exception of the Japanese, mostmills concentrated on lower-grade core steel,but because of Kyoto, the Japanese governmentordered all transformers to be more efficient.Thus, that country’s internal demand for bettergradecore steel increased, putting more pressureon this material. This, along with a major conversionproject in Japan, severely increased thedemand for distribution transformers.There is no global standard for core steel.There are different grades, but each manufacturersets its own standards for each grade.Core steel is measured in watts losses perpound or kilogram. Because of the differencesbetween mills, this can cause a manufacturerto see swings in the performance of core steel,putting further pressure on the guarantees ithas provided its customers.Most manufacturers provide a guaranteebased on the average loss for the core steeloffered. However, if the material provided isat the higher end of the tolerance given by themanufacturer, then this can result in higherlosses. Most utilities have a loss evaluationformula that can also result in a penalty to themanufacturer if the average losses on a designare over the guarantee. This has forced mostmanufacturers to request that the evaluationfor losses be conducted based on an annualsupply of the transformers, typically by productgroup, so that the better losses are takenagainst some higher losses to get the averagebelow the guarantee.In addition to this, due to the allocation ofcore steel, there are instances where a manufacturermay not be able to meet the utilities’demand using the required grade of core steelbased on the guaranteed loss values. Thishas caused many manufacturers to request awaiver on loss penalties for certain shipments.CopperWe all know how copper has gone up in priceover the past few years: over 125% in basecopper pricing in the past 12 months alone.In addition, many mills have been forced toeither increase their manufacturing cost orapply a surcharge due to the rising energycosts. While the supply of copper has beenadequate, the global inventory has significantlydecreased over the past year, puttingmore pressure on the price.More recently, labour disputes andgovernment regulations have putfurther pressure on copper supplies.Rationalization in the manufacture ofmagnet wire used in the constructionof transformers has further restrictedthe supply.AluminumAluminum has typically been a steadyproduct in both supply and pricing, butthis has changed significantly over thepast year. The global aluminum marketis consolidating. Aluminum productionis energy intensive and, as such,the cost to produce it has increased.The aluminum ingot has increasedas much as 35% in 2006 and, withfurther restructuring in the industry,prices are expected to remain high.From January 2005 to February 2006,the ingot price for aluminum went from$0.94/lb to an average of $1.17/lb, withhighs up to $1.35/lb.Transformer oilTransformer oil is similar to other transformerproducts; it is refined at just a few locationsaround the world. In 2005, some refinerieshad difficulties putting short-term pressure onsupply. In addition, global oil market increaseswere further reflected in transformer oil,causing significant increases in price. Severalrefineries in North America have closed overthe past couple of years and the grades oftransformer oil have changed. Voltesso 35,which was once known as the standard intransformer oil, is no longer available and newgrades have taken its place.Many customers specify a certain type orbrand of oil rather than the grade or standard.This can lead to a misunderstanding onwhat they are actually receiving. Manufacturersstrongly recommend that you specify a grade,class and type of oil rather than a brand.Stainless steelMetal for transformer tanks and other componentssaw a significant increase in cost duringlate 2005 and early 2006. While mild steelhas stabilized in pricing for the foreseeablefuture, pricing for specialized materials—suchas stainless steel—continues to experiencesignificant swings. Pricing projections forstainless steel saw an increase of up to 10% inthe early half of 2006.In addition to the normal price perpound for stainless steel, the surcharge thatmills are applying is as much as the basemetal costs in some grades of stainless steel.And while mild steel pricing has remainedfairly consistent in 2006, there is a potentialfor increases due to major consolidationsin the global steel industry.What this means to industryFor the past several years, manufacturershave been operating in ‘catch-upmode’ to achieve adjustments thatbetter reflectmaterial cost increases. Theglobal shortage of core steelhas also forced some customersto take a more serious lookat refurbishing transformers,but this has the potential ofcreating a growing industrysector that may include new,unseen pitfalls.With the allocation of coresteel on a global basis andthe increase in transformerdemand, the industry hasseen a significant general increase in the leadtimes for transformers. All customers needto take into account the significant cost anddelivery time increases.In more recent months, with the dramaticswings in material costs, most manufacturershave been forced to adapt new biddingpractices that reflect their cost at the time ofmanufacture. This has led to the developmentof pricing policies that request adjustmentsbased on current commodity cost at the timeof manufacture or shipment. The industryrealizes this is a difficult change for the purchaser,but necessary nonetheless for maintaininga healthy supply of transformers.Components used to produce transformerscome from a limited number of industryrecognizedsuppliers. Customers who areless informed about transformer componentfunctionality might base their buying decisionson brand, not realizing this may resultin higher pricing. In short, do your homeworkto get the most out of this situation.Wayne J. Edwards is vicepresidentof the ElectricalEquipment ManufacturersAssociation of Canada(EEMAC), a council ofElectro-Federation Canada.18 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.com

VDV challengesin industrialapplicationsBy William GrahamElectrical engineers and electriciansare realizing that CEC or the AmericanNEC are just minimum standards andprovide safety for people. To protectindustrial equipment from electricalnoise and interference we must gravitateto higher standards, such as IEEE’s(Institute of Electrical and ElectronicsEngineers’) grounding standards.Industrial VDV opportunityThe other solution to EMI is installingfibre optic cable, which neither emitsnor receives electrical noise. It is intrinsicallysafe, which perhaps explains whyit has found a new home in oilfieldapplications. In fact, an increasingnumber of electrical service companiesare realizing the business opportunitiesinvolved with fibre solutions.As plants become increasingly productive,they will require more in therealm of VDV technology and expertise.Electrical contractors must beprepared to upgrade their thinking andequipment, and train their employeesto meet the challenges and reapthe financial benefits presented by themodern industrial plant environment.William Graham is a Toronto-area electricalcontractor as well as a communicationscabling specialist who operates MississaugaTraining Consultants, a company specializingin certification training in fibre optics and VDVnetwork cabling systems. Visit him online atwww.fiberoptictraining.com.Voice, data and video (VDV) systems inindustrial plants are certainly not newto the electrician. However, in just thelast few years, these data systems have gone upin speed and become increasingly importantto their users. In fact, it is fair to say that thisheightened dependency means that plants suffergreater production losses when these systemsfail. With many plants operating on a JIT (justin-time)system, time losses often cannot betolerated, as they can result in lost contracts.As both an electrician and data communicationsinstaller, the four main problem areas I’ve foundwith VDV systems in industrial settings are:1. distance2. environment3. connections4. electromagnetic interferenceDistanceWhen we run Cat 5 or 6 cable in an office environment,we can usually manage to stay withinthe magic 90 metres from the horizontal crossconnectto the work area outlet as required (ifour system is to pass the length test). We usuallyallow 14 ft from ceiling to floor. In largeindustrial plants, though, 90 metres doesn’t govery far. This problem becomes more acute inthe plant when we install our cable on a traditionalheight cable tray and need 20 ft to 25 ftto reach the floor.The solution includes better planning oftelecom room locations and cable routing tostay within the distances. And we must considerrouting cables across non-traditional routes,such as lower suspended cable trays or conduits,or raceways along the walls or in the floor. Wetraditionally run cabling and raceway squarebut, on occasion, we must be willing to deviatefrom this to reduce distance and, in the case ofgrounding, to increase effectiveness.EnvironmentThe plant environment is generally dirty, oftenwith high metal content in the dust or corrosivechemicals in the air. This contamination causesdamage to the traditional and more fragile dataconnections. In recent years, industry seems tohave taken up the challenge by producing protectiveshrouds and boots more suitable for thisenvironment. Plant managers are also becomingmore aware of the advantages and economicbenefits of cleaner plants in the way of, amongother things, reduced maintenance.ConnectionsThe electrician is taught that a proper connectionon a terminal consists of looping thewire under the terminal screw and tighteningit down. With the IDC terminals used on 66or BICC blocks, however, many electricians—myself included—take a while accepting themas a good connection. In time, though, we doaccept them, even if they go against everythingwe were taught as electricians. This is why someelectricians prefer using small terminal blocks,and while it takes longer to install the wire, themethod does work well.Electromagnetic interferenceEMI, electrical noise or whatever you wantto call it has always been a major problemin the modern automated plant. Plant andindustrial electricians first noticed this problemwith the advent of electronic relays and PLCs.Thousands of hours of down time and damagedor lost product result from this age-oldproblem. After all, we expect good performancefrom our data communication systems in plantapplications, and EMI is often an uphill battle.There are two distinct problems in thisenvironment. The first is the number of noiseemittingdevices in the plant—things such ashigh-voltage cables, motors, arc welders, variablespeed drives, etc. The second is PLC-operatedequipment operating on low voltages (inthe range of 5 volts). A small amount of EMIis enough to amplify or cover over the signalsand cause data loss. One of the solutions is toprovide proper grounding and bonding.www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 19INFO NO. 18

PRODUCTS FOR LIGHTING APPLICATIONSLighting control systemDimOnOff is launchinga powerline and communicationlighting controlsystem working up to347-1-60. The productfamily includes a wall keypad,lighting relays, and apowerline modem that’sEthernet/Internet accessible.Windows-based software is used to set up, reprogramor apply schedule modifications and logins for relamping orrenaming relays (or group) in a user-friendly structure.101 Dimonoff Inc.▼▼ Pre-programmed wireless lighting controlLutron has made installing a wireless, RF-based lighting controlsystem easier with AuroRa—a simplified system that creates asafe path of light into, and throughout, the home. The pre-programmedAuroRa system enables you to offer clients the safety,simplicity and comfort of lighting control without any installationhassles, setup or programming. Styled like a traditionaltoggle switch, AuroRa is available in an easy-to-install packagecontaining five dimmers, one master control, one wireless controllerand one central antenna. The system installs as quickly asfive light switches: the system’s compact plug-in central antennaensures reliable RF communication between all devices, and canbe placed in a closet or under a bed.102 Lutron Electronics Co. Inc.Architectural and area lightingKeene Guardian round and linear architecturallighting series is designed to resistimpact and prying forces. In fact,the products are laboratory testedand backed by a limited lifetimeguarantee. Guardian’s TriGuardconstruction works to protectvital components through shockabsorption, tamper-proof designand durable construction. The series’ DayForm styling enhancesapplications with contemporary designs while minimizingpry points. Meantime, Keene’s Optra area lighting boastsrugged die-cast aluminum housing constructed with stainlesssteel hardware, complete with dust-tight seals. The quad opticssystem captures, controls and maximizes light utilization andenergy use through four optical components (primary pathreflector, inverse conical lens, collimating refractor and vertical▼lamp orientation). Optra is cUL approved, wet locationlisted and is a Night-Friendly lighting optionmeeting IESNA full cut-off criteria.103 Canlyte Inc.Electronic HID ballastsfor 39W and 70W MHAdvance has introducednew MiniSquare andTrakStick ballaststo its e-Visionfamily of electronicHID ballasts. Suitable for downlighting,and track and accent lighting applications, theballasts for 39W and 70W ceramic MH lamps offergood performance and long life. Compact and lightweight,the Mini Square ballast measures 3.5 x 3 x1.2-in. and the TrakStick 5.5 x 1.8 x 1.2-in., enablingthem to blend into modern fixture designs, givingyou design flexibility. Both deliver good lamp wattageregulation to optimize lamp colour quality over life,and feature Advance’s exclusive IntelliVolt multiplevoltagetechnology.104 Advance (div. of Philips Electronics North America)▼Impeccable ServiceIntroducingISD SUPERGLASSA RevolutionaryScientific Advancementin Optical Design▼ Dimmers and fan speed controlsLeviton’s Vizia Collection oflighting and fan speed controlsintegrates digital engineering,intuitive operation and a stylishform factor that’s compatible withthe company’s Decora devices andscrewless snap-on wallplates. The alldigitalcircuitry enables all dimmers inthe collection to be suitable for singlepoleand three-way installations, as well ashigher-level control schemes. The exclusive, returnto-neutraldesign provides tactile and visual appealand allows devices to remain aligned whether dimmersare On or Off. The lighting control productsinclude incandescent, fluorescent and low-voltagedimmers, fan speed controls, and matching and coordinatingremotes for multi-location dimming.105 Leviton Manufacturing Co.PRODUCTSPremium ProductsUnique SolutionsInnovative TechnologyHistory/ReputationCustomer SatisfactionDedicated Sales Force6611 Reflector (wide distribution)6612 Reflector (narrow distribution)Up to 28% More Efficient Than Any Other Reflector!Up to 59% Energy Savings!Unbeatable Savings on Installation and MaintenanceTwo Reflectors Do It All!INFO NO. 1920 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comFor more information onhow you canexperience lighting’s bestvisit our web site at holophane.comContact your local Holophane factory sales representative,call Launa @ (905) 707-5830▲ First response tools for network problemsThe EtherScope Series II network assistant fromFluke Networks Canada provides complete visioninto twisted-pair, fibre optic and wireless LANs forprofessionals responding to daily network problems.New to the product are Gigabit fibre connections,802.1X authentication, a robust connection log andimproved Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) verification.Series II connects easily to both fibre optic and twisted-pairnetworks for vision into mixed-medium networks.A SFP cage accepts optional 1000BASE-SX/LX/ZX optical transceivers, alongside a permanentfull-duplex 10/100/1000 twisted-pair RJ-45 interface.Problems with the client-network connectionprocess are seen and diagnosed via EtherScope’s newConnection Log. The log also simplifies dynamicaddressing (DHCP IP) and WLAN associationtroubleshooting. By emulating a powered device(PD), Series II speeds the diagnosis and repair ofPoE systems by soliciting and measuring DC voltageon each pin.106 Fluke Networks Canada

RRRRJust for LOW VOLTAGECLASS 2 WIRINGSingle & 2-gangLow VoltageMountingBrackets• Seats wall platesflush with mountingsurface• Adjusts to fit 1/4"to 1" thick drywall,paneling, etc.• Installs faster, costsless than metal!LV1 Single-gangLow Voltage Mounting Bracket2-gang LV2 also availableArlingtonRecessedScrew Holeseats wall plateflush with wallsurfaceThin Front Lipseats betteron drywallOval Holefor final shifting,straightening of devicePatented800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.com© Arlington Industries, Inc.THE NEATEST WAY TOCOVER UNUSED BOXES!On Flat and UnevenCeilings...Our CP3540 Box Cover isthe neatest way to coverunused fan/fixture boxes(pan boxes too!) andpoorly cut drywall.The improvedbracket design offers‘A’ and ‘B’ openings for useon flat or uneven ceilings.Attach bracket to box with#8 or #10 screws, backingthem out just far enough toslip the bracket on.• No screws show onthe ceiling plate• Fits 3.5" or 4" roundor octagonal boxes• Non-metallic• Textured, paintableArlingtonRWorks withPan BoxesRtoo!800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.comINFO NO. 65 INFO NO. 66©2002 Arlington Industries, Inc.REV 0404CP3540 Box CoverPatented. Other patents pendingUse ‘B’ for unevenor textured ceilingsThread stud intoopening until tightStudUse ‘A’for flat ceilingsPush stud intoopening to seatcoverImproved Bracket Design!NAIL DOWN the SAVINGSwith this LOW VOLTAGE BRACKETLVN1w/ nailsLowVoltageMountingBracketJust nail or screwthese brackets to awood or steel stud –and you’re ready toinstall low voltageClass 2 wiring!• Lower cost thanextension rings• Non-conductive• Eliminates pushbackFaster to installthan mud rings!GRAB ANYBODY.TMNEW!Arlington’s AnyBODY ships#930 1/2" as an LB, but converts to a T,LL, LR or C by switching thecovers and threaded flangesto create the style you need.It’s easy – and convenient.Plus, it saves you the hassle,space, and cost of stockingfive different conduit bodies.2-gang LVN2ArlingtonNOW AVAILABLE2-1/2" to 4"QuickLatch...• Mounts towall, strut, stud• Fast & easyinstallationPress pipe firmlyinto QuickLatch to lock itin place.That’s it!• For 1/2" to 4" rigid, EMT,IMC, PVCSAVES ABOUT 25 SECONDSPER INSTALLATION!...That’s 14¢ per at $20./hr labor.Listed for use inenvironmentalair handling spacesArlingtonPatentpending800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.comINFO NO. 67Also available:Screw-on LVS1& LVS2 for steelIt’s Better. Use it just like a pipe hanger!It’s QUICKLATCHfor RIGID, EMTPVC, IMCSize Cat. No.2-1/2" NM20603" NM20703-1/2" NM20804" NM2090NEWSIZES!PatentedMOUNTPRESS IN© 2003, Rev 2004 Arlington Industries, Inc.©2005 Arlington Industries, Inc.LOCKED!800/233-4717 • www.aifittings.comIt Ships as an LB...BUT IT’SANY BODYYOU WANTIT TO BE!Patents pending©2006 Arlington Industries, Inc.TLLCLR• Sizes: 1/2" to 4"• Includes threaded flangesfor three openings• 1/2" to 2" sizes arecombination EMT/rigid –they’re threaded forrigid, but also have aset-screw for use withEMT• Competitively pricedwith LBs with NO EXTRACOST for the normallymore expensive T• UL and CSA ListedTMIt’s all anybodyneeds to save time& money!Arlington800/233-4717www.aifittings.comINFO NO. 68INFO NO. 20

PRODUCTS▼ PC-based home automationExceptional Innovation recently launched Life|ware1.0.1, home control software that seamlessly integrateswith Windows XP Media Center Edition 2005 to supportMCE-based installations. It can be used to controllighting, thermostats, security systems, camerasand media management systems. Unlike some otherhome automation solutions, Life|ware is hardwareneutral,giving homeowners more choices and flexibility.Life|ware can be run on a Media Center PC,digital entertainment centre, Media Center extenderor EI’s own Life|touch all-digital, high-definitiontouchpanel. The key to its flexibility is its use of WebServices for Devices (WSD) to communicate betweendifferent home systems.107 Exceptional Innovation▼ New wireless solutionBelden’s newWireless Solutionovercomes thecapacity, mobilityand deploymentissues found inwireless LANsystems, providesfor the seamlessconvergence ofdata, video and voice (VoWLAN), and is ‘futureproofed’for Voice over Wi-Fi. The architecture ofthis solution is fundamentally different: while standardWLANs use cell-based technologies requiringcomplex RF cell planning, the Belden systememploys a ‘channel blanket’ topology to allow eachradio channel to be used everywhere, thereby creatingcontinuous wireless coverage with no roaminglatency or co-channel interference problems. Thewireless solution consists of three basic components.First, BWS-8008 (8-port) and BWS-8024(24-port) switches are PoE enabled, eliminatingthe need for a midspan or endspan device. Second,BWAP-200 ‘thin’ access points (APs) provide trueplug-and-play functionality. With all software andprocessing intelligence built in to the Beldenwireless switch, the Belden APs require no configurationand are easily interchangeable. Finally,software manages the operation of the switches,allowing clients to associate directly with the switchand not the access point.108 Belden▼ Indoor PIR motion detectorBosch’s new line of high-security indoor passiveinfrared (PIR) motion detectors features sensor datafusion technology, which enables data comparisonfrom all the detectors’ sensors to reduce false alarms.The Professional Series detectors are ideal for a varietyof indoor commercial and retail applications,such as banks and warehouses. The series is currentlyavailable in two models. The ISC-PPR1-W16PIR detector incorporates two pyroelectric sensors,and room temperature and light level sensors, whilethe ISC-PDL1-W18G dual PIR detector employsan additional microwave Doppler radar sensor. Auser-definable coverage pattern allows the installerto adjust the coverage area from 50 x 75 ft to 25 x30 ft via a simple dipswitch. The turn of a screweasily switches the look-down lens On or Off, andthe range of the Doppler radar on the dual detectorsis manually controlled.109 Bosch Security Systems Inc.▼ Fibre optic adapter and attenuator kitsTimbercon’s fibre optic adapter kits are designed toprovide a simple solution to mating multiple connectortypes, and are ideal for applications requiringcable-to-cable connections. Each kit containsquality components for performance and durability,and both standard and hybrid adapters for the mostpopular connector types—each suitable for bothsingle- and multi-mode use. The kits are availablein both standard (including SC, LC, FC, ST, MU,MT and MTRJ adapter types) and custom configurations,and include assorted adapters, a durablecompartmentalized storage case and reference chart.The company also offers an attenuator kit productline that is designed for portability and ease of useacross different applications. Each kit provides aneasy way to produce multiple levels of attenuationfor just about any fibre optic cable. The kits areoffered in LC, SC, ST, FC, MU and mixed connector-typeconfigurations. They combine a seriesof dual wavelength (1310nm/1550nm) attenuatorswith a durable storage case for easy portability, andan attenuator identification chart.Timbercon Inc.110▼ Video camera handlerAltronix’s HubWay2I buildson the capabilities of the originalHubWay line-up of video/data/power products, which opened the door to centralizingUTP video, RS422/RS-485 data anddistributed camera power over a single Cat 5 orhigher cable for distances up to 1000 feet. For itspart, HubWay2I is capable of handling video cameraslacking internal isolation transformers. TheHubWay2I provides eight 24VAC power outputs,each configurable for both AC and/or DC cameraswhen used with the HubWayA (AC) or HubwayD(DC) video balun combiners, allowing the video,data and power to each camera to be customizedwith regard to its particular specification and setup. The unit has an 8A total output current (1Amaximum per channel) and all outputs are fuseprotected, and an illuminated master power disconnectcircuit breaker with manual reset.111 Altronix▼ UPS integrated withInfraStruXure architectureAPC is offering a fully assembled InfraStruXuresystem integrated with a Smart-UPS VT powermodule, hot-swappable batteries and integratedpower distribution, which promises quick-connectcomponents and turnkey features for speedingup deployment time. The system also decreasestotal-cost-of-ownership by minimizing space andreducing operating, installation and expansioncosts. The company feels this offering will providecustomers with highly agile and available solutionsfor their IT environments. It notes that the system’shigh power density, small form factor and modulararchitecture make it ideal for applications rangingfrom high density, disaster recovery and VoIP/IPtelephony. The systems are available in 20KVA and30KVA with 208V and 480V input.112 American Power ConversionSee yourself online atEBmag.comThe Electrical Business photo gallery is up and running atEBmag.com (click on Photo Gallery). Check out some ofthe events we’ve attended and the people we met.CALENDARNEC/CEC: A Comparison of RequirementsCanadian Standards Association (CSA)December 11–12, Vancouver, B.C.Visit http://learningcentre.csa.caDesign, Installation & Maintenanceof Electrical Equipment in HazardousLocationsCanadian Standards Association (CSA)December 13–14, Vancouver, B.C.Visit http://learningcentre.csa.caStatic Grounding: One Spark,One ChanceCanadian Standards Association (CSA)December 15, Sarnia, Ont.Visit http://learningcentre.csa.caNetworking LuncheonOntario Energy Network (OEN)January 16, 2007Toronto, Ont.Visit www.ontarioenergynetwork.orgAnnual General MeetingAlberta Electrical League (AEL)January 25, 2007Visit www.elecleague.ab.caor call (403) 514-3085Valentine’s Dinner and DanceOntario Electrical League (OEL)February 9, 2007Toronto, Ont.Visit www.oel.orgAnnual Technical ConferenceElectrical Inspectors Association ofAlberta (EIAA)February 9-10, 2007Sherwood Park, Alta.Visit www.eiaa2004.com and clickAnnual Technical ConferenceElectric WestFebruary 21-23, 2007Long Beach, Calif.Visit www.electricshow.comElectrical Technical and MegaProjects Workshop (ETMP)IEEE (Southern Alberta and NorthernCanada sections)February 26-27, 2007Calgary, Alta.Visit www.ieee.org/megaprojectsElectrical Safety Workshop (ESW)Institute of Electrical and ElectronicsEngineers (IEEE)February 27-March 2, 2007Calgary, Alta.Visit www.ewh.ieee.org/cmte/ias-esw/annual.htmAnnual Electrical Industry ConferenceOntario Electrical League (OEL)April 18-21, 2007Windsor, Ont.Visit www.oel.orgWILL BETHERE!Annual MeetingNational Association of ElectricalDistributors (NAED)May 5-9, 2007Washington, D.C.Visit www.naed.orgLightfairInternational Association of LightingDesigners (IALD) and IlluminatingEngineering Society of North America(IESNA)May 8-10, 2007WILL BEVisit www.lightfair.comTHERE!Quebec Region Golf TournamentElectro-Federation Canada (EFC)May 22, 2007Pointe Claire, Que.Visit www.electrofed.comAnnual ConferenceSupply & Distribution Council, EFCMay 30-June 2, 2007Fort Lauderdale, Fla.Visit www.electrofed.comNational ConferenceCanadian Electrical ContractorsAssociation (CECA)June 13-16, 2007Ottawa, Ont.Visit www.ceca.orgWILL BETHERE!Spring Golf TournamentAlberta Electrical League (AEL)June 14, 2007Visit www.elecleague.ab.ca or call(403) 514-3085Electrical ShowcaseBritish Columbia ElectricalAssociation (BCEA)June 21, 2007Kelowna, B.C.Visit www.bcea.bc.caAnnual Golf TournamentOntario Energy Network (OEN)July 26, 2007Gormley, Ont.Visit www.ontarioenergynetwork.orgAnnual Golf TournamentOntario Electrical League (OEL)August 15, 2007Nobleton, Ont.Visit www.oel.orgAtlantic Golf TournamentElectro-Federation Canada (EFC)August 16, 2007Moncton, N.B.Visit www.electrofed.comFederation Cup 7th Annual CharityGolf TournamentElectro-Federation Canada (EFC)August 28, 2007Bond Head, Ont.Visit www.electrofed.comFall Golf TournamentAlberta Electrical League (AEL)August 30, 2007Visit www.elecleague.ab.ca or call(403) 514-3085Annual Conference & ConventionNational Electrical ContractorsAssociation (NECA)October 5-8, 2007WILL BETHERE!San Francisco, Calif.Visit www.necaconvention.org/2007.htmElectrical ShowcaseBritish Columbia Electrical Association(BCEA)October 25, 2007Victoria, B.C.WILL BEVisit www.bcea.bc.caTHERE!Electrical Learning ExpoAlberta Electrical League (AEL)October 25, 2007Grande Prairie, Alta.Visit www.elecleague.ab.ca or call(403) 514-308522 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.com

EXCELLENCE INTECHNOLOGYwww. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 23

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYThe best price, at your fingertipsAllpriser Ltd.Allpriser Ltd. is known to contractors across Canada. Fornearly 90 years, we have been publishing standard materialpricing for the Canadian construction industry. OurRed Plumbing and Hydronic Heating Price Guide is the pricingreference for the Canadian plumbing industry. In addition,we publish our Gold Luxury Plumbing, Blue Waterworks andSilver HVAC Pricing Services.Before the Allpriser Price Guide, each wholesaler printed anddistributed his own price book. Every contractor had to consulteach wholesaler’s price book to determine the best price forevery item in every job. Both contractors and wholesalers werewasting time and money.In 1919, Kenneth Allison created Allison’s Pricing Service withthe goal of streamlining the pricing process. Today, Allpriserpricing is used by contractors, wholesalers, retailers, purchasingagents, architects and construction estimators across Canada.Now, Allpriser is pleased to announce a new pricing servicefor the Canadian electrical industry: our Yellow ElectricalPricing Service. We have gathered pricing from the manufacturersof the most commonly used residential and commercialelectrical materials. Canadian electrical contractors and suppliers,engineers and architects now have a single source referencefor electrical pricing.Like our other services, the Yellow Electrical Pricing Service isoffered as a printed Price Guide book or a computer database.Allpriser customers subscribe to our services on a yearly basis.With each subscription we provide a complete, up-to-date copyof the printed price guide or database. Then, throughout theIntroducing the new Allpriser Electrical Price Guide.Available in wired or wireless.W I N P R I E RComputer service subscribersare provided with a copy of ourWinpriser Pricing Software, whichallows them to look up prices andbuild estimates, invoices andpurchase orders. Winpriser willeven export complete invoices toQuickBooks and Simply Accounting.Allpriser brings to electricians what plumbers have profited by for over 80 years: A fast, accurate and easyway to price, order and invoice jobs. The new Allpriser Electrical Pricing Guide contains every item used in dailyoperations by commercial electrical contractors. Category headings, model numbers, specs and list prices arein easy-to-read fonts, with full updates mailed to you twice a month. Allpriser is packaged in a ready-to-use,hard-to-lose, bright-yellow three-ring binder, or electronically as Winpriser for Windows PC. Minimize errors,paperwork, inefficiency and the risk of looking less than your best to clients – order your Allpriser now.On the dash or the desktop – you decide. Doubtful? Ask a plumber how he likes his.The Allpriser Electrical Price GuideThe ultimate circuit.Order at 1-800-361-9484 or visit www.allpriser.comyear, we send updates as prices change to ensureour subscribers always have the most current andaccurate information.Our computer service updates are compatiblewith most estimating programs. In addition, computerservice subscribers are provided with a copy ofour Winpriser Pricing Software, which allows themto look up prices and build estimates, invoices andpurchase orders. Winpriser will even export completeinvoices to QuickBooks and Simply Accounting.Subscribing to an Allpriser pricing service providesmany benefits:• Whether you are estimating or invoicing,you can be sure you are using accurate,up-to-date prices.• Pricing is available when you want it—no morewaiting for supplier quotes.• Cross-checking supplier invoices is made easierwith a standard pricing source.• Our Winpriser software makes pricing fasterand more accurate.• You are able to concentrate on the job and notjust the pricing.For more information on Allpriser’s Electrical PricingServices or any of our other services, e-mail Bruce Prestonat bpreston@allpriser.com, or call (800) 361-9484 or(416) 247-8219, or visit www.allpriser.com. ETINFO NO. 2124 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comADVERTISING FEATURE

Developers of the cold shrink ‘living’ seal3M CanadaShowcasing 3M’s new 69kV terminations.Cold shrink technology wasdeveloped by 3M 33 years ago.While there are advantagesand disadvantages to all types of electricalcable accessories (be they heat shrink, ceramicor cold shrink, or the push-on type), cold shrinkaccessories have more advantages than the others.Since inventing the technology, 3M has made andsold low- and medium-voltage cold shrink cableaccessories for splicing, terminating and environmentallysealing electrical cables. Products includeinsulating tubes, semiconductive tubes, terminationkits, rejacketing kits, three-conductor breakoutboots, and sealing and splicing kits. Recently, 3Madded 69kV terminations (at the low end of thehigh-voltage range) to its product line.Cold shrink products are typically made fromeither ethylene propylene diene monomer (EPDM)or silicone rubber. Cross-linking forms bondsbetween the molecules of the material that act likesprings when the material is stretched. These bondstry to return the material to its original diameter.When applied to a cable larger than the accessory’soriginal internal diameter, the cold shrink productwill not be able to return to its original diameter butwill always exert an inward pressure on the cable asit tries to shrink further. This inward pressure notonly provides an excellent environmental seal butimproves electrical performance.Because of this ‘living’ seal, cold shrink is an excellentchoice where large load swings or differences intemperature occur. As the cable expands and contractswith changes in temperature so, too, will thecold shrink product, moving with the cable to maintainits electrical interface and environmental seal—critically important to its electrical performance. Thenature of the materials also provides physical protectionto the cable, termination or splice.These cold shrink properties provide excellentelectrical performance in low- to high-voltage accessories.Cold shrink accessories provide higher interfacepressure between the accessory and the cableinsulation than other accessories, thereby improvingelectrical performance (as reported in researchpapers by Hydro Quebec’s test laboratory, IREQ).Cold shrink accessories provide more force at thecable semicon end, which forces the grease or masticto conform better, and improves the partial dischargeperformance of the accessories.Unlike heat shrink products, cold shrink productsdo not require special tools to install. Theyinstall consistently with respect to interface pressure,length and insulation thickness. Cold shrink productseliminate some of the craft variables, allowingconsistent installation from one job to the next.They are also safer options than heat shrink tubeswhen installed in manholes and other areas wheregases may concentrate. Cold shrink products createfewer ergonomic issues for the installer than heavierceramic accessories or push-on type accessories. Thesimpler installation process can help you realize aADVERTISING FEATURElower total installed cost while reducing craft errors that maythreaten reliability.Typically, a hot work permit is required when installing anyheat shrink products, whereas only a work permit is requiredwhen installing cold shrink products. Furthermore, considerthat it is often difficult to obtain a hot work permit while afacility is running.Cold shrink products improve the quality and life of aninstallation. Because they are moulded, cold shrink accessoriesshrink evenly all the way around the cable, providing a consistentappearance, and are flexible and conform better to the cablethan other products. Aerial joints, for example, need to be moreflexible than those placed in the ground while maintaininginterface pressure and an environmental seal as the cable moves.Cold shrink joints will be able to handle this movement betterthan tape, heat shrink or push-on joints.These accessories enhance the efficiency of field crews andthe consistency of installations, accommodate a wide range of cables, and resist fungus, ozone, alkalis and acids.Cold shrink accessories have a proven history of excellentfield performance. Terminations have been available for morethan 30 years; many have been in service for that long and arestill performing. Splices have been available for more than 10years and are performing well in the field. The materials anddesigns combine to provide excellent long-term performance.3M’s customer support includes a hotline to answer questions,on-location and online training, and in-depth technicalservice for specific applications. Training modules are designedand taught by 3M electrical engineers. Most cold shrink accessoriesare stock items and ship in two days. Customization ofproducts to fit specific needs is possible through the 3M CanadaJobBox program.Visit 3M Electrical online at www.3M.com/electrical.An online product selector makes it possible for you tochange variables as you look for the product most appropriatefor your application. ET EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYINFO NO. 22www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 253M_EB_April06 1 3/15/06 9:24:33 AM

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYExcellence is the key to competitionSkilled Trades Promotion ProjectExcellence is the key to competition in our increasinglymodern, global village. In the electrical industry, excellencecomes from the best design, the best equipmentand the best workers. Unfortunately, finding the best skilledworkers is getting harder and harder. Canada faces increasingshortages in skilled workers in all sectors of the economy. Theshortage is not yet a crisis, but it’s getting close. According tothe Conference Board of Canada, there will be a shortage of onemillion skilled workers by 2020.The electrical sector is not immune to the effects of the skilledworker shortage. According to the Electricity Sector Council,about 17,000 new workers will be needed in technical positionsacross Canada over the next 10 years for the sector to keep upwith current levels of work. That’s based on the fact that 35% ofexisting workers will be eligible to retire by 2014.Even when workers are available, the competition to hire themmay be fierce in the future. (Consider that last year the averagepay increase for construction trades in Calgary was 12.5%.)What can anyone do?Faced with a sea of statistics and projections, many peoplewould be tempted to throw up their hands; after all, how cananyone swim against the tide of a national trend? How can wefight the demographics of an aging population or the perceptionthat skilled trades are a second-class occupation? It is a difficultchallenge, but not one that we can ignore.The long-term solution to the skilled trade shortage willrequire action from many groups: government, educationalThe challenge to all of us is to step upand do something: hire an apprentice,encourage a young person to considerthe skilled trades, or even talk aboutthe value of apprenticeship.institutions, unions, employers and, above all others,young Canadians. One example of how totackle the issue is the Skilled Trades: A CareerYou Can Build On campaign launched by theCanadian Apprenticeship Forum–Forum canadiensur l’apprentissage (CAF-FCA) and Skills/Compétences Canada (S/CC). The project worksto improve the image of skilled trades and encouragemore young people to choose a career in thetrades. It is making progress, and the image of theskilled trades is changing.APPRENTICESHIP.A Smart Investment.AMBITION, WILLINGNESS TO LEARN AND HARD WORK got you where you are today. Now, you can build on thesequalities – and build your business – by hiring and training apprentices. A motivated and skilled workforce goes a longway towards ensuring your competitive advantage and maintaining a healthy bottom line. Apprentices’ knowledge andskills – coupled with the on-the-job training – makes for a profitable and smart investment for your business.Visit www.careersintrades.ca today. Find out how apprenticeship can help you build your business.WWW.CAREERSINTRADES.CAINFO NO. 2326 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comThis project is funded by the Government of Canada’s Sector Council Program.Employers need to step upThat’s where employers come in. Both the largestand smallest businesses have their part to play inensuring there is a supply of skilled workers available.Unfortunately, many employers are not takingthe problem seriously enough to act. According to anational study carried out for CAF-FCA and S/CC,only 18% of employers that could hire apprenticesactually do.The problem with statistics and concern abouta national crisis is employers often find it hard tosee what it all means to their businesses. In keepingwith the theme of “excellence”, let’s see what hiringyoung skilled workers can mean to the qualitybottom line.Apprentices are highly motivated to learn and dotheir best work. (After all, each apprentice’s futuredepends on how good a job he does.) Apprentices alsobring the latest knowledge and training with them.Technical change is a fact of life, and apprentices canhelp you stay on the cutting edge. It may seem like aparadox, but apprentices often have a lot to teach.It’s clear that young skilled workers can havea very positive effect on overall quality, and theyensure you will have access to the next generationof workers. What about that other bottom line,the one your accountant looks at? Rest easy: recentstudies show that apprentices don’t cut into profits;in fact, employers can expect a net benefit over thecourse of a three-year apprenticeship.Many companies are small in the electrical trade,but that doesn’t preclude them from consideringapprentices. Seek out information about what anapprentice can do for you, then consider makingapprenticeship part of your business plan, even ifit’s a few years down the road.Crisis, what crisis?The skilled trades shortage may never become a crisisfor the electrical sector if enough companies andstakeholders embrace the idea of apprenticeship.Remember, apprentices are not simply a questionof statistics and demographic trends: they are thefuture of the industry. The challenge to all of us isto step up and do something: hire an apprentice,encourage a young person to consider the skilledtrades, or even talk about the value of apprenticeship.Embracing apprenticeship and young skilledworkers is a good way to ensure years of excellencein business.For more information and tools on skilled trades,be sure to visit www.careersintrades.ca.ADVERTISING FEATUREET

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYADVERTISING FEATUREINFO NO. 24www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 27

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYCondulet: an electrical innovationspanning 100 yearsCooper Crouse-HindsReaching the venerable age of 100 is great cause for celebration,and that’s what Cooper Crouse-Hinds® is doing tomark the centennial of the introduction of its Condulet®conduit fittings: a breakthrough product that solved a key electricalinstallation problem at the turn of the last century. But while lookingback with pride at how Condulet forever changed the way wiring isrun through commercial and industrial environments, the companyis fixing its sights—and its R&D strategy—firmly on the future.“The introduction of the Condulet exemplifies Cooper Crouse-Hinds’ tradition of industry leadership,” says Curt Andersson,company president. “The ability to anticipate the emerging needsof our customers and provide innovative solutions continues to bea hallmark of Cooper Crouse-Hinds.”The Power Behind The Brands.INFO NO. 2528 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comCooper Crouse-Hinds assures product qualitywith both UL and CSA Certifications.Strolling down the company’s memory lane, Anderssonreflects on the powerful invention that started it all. The timewas 1906, when electricity was in its infancy as a power source inindustrial facilities. Back then, contractors used existing naturalgas pipes to run electrical wiring into factories, requiring them tocut off the corners of the pipes to allow for access so the wiringcould be pulled. This method left the conductors exposed in thecorners and damage was frequent and replacement costly.A New York contractor, Morton Havens Jr., designed and builtprototype conduit fittings that met both his high standards and thoseof the U.S. Patent Office. Having little interest in making his product,Havens did have a strong business relationship with the Crouse-HindsElectric Co., a 10-year-old joint venture of Huntington B. Crouse and100 years of reinventingthe perfect solution.A century ago, Cooper Crouse-Hindsinvented the very first Condulet ® ,setting the performance standard that stillstands today. From our original revolutionary ideain 1906 to our latest Condulet reinvention – integral gaskets –we’re proud of our long-standing commitment and dedicationto product improvement.Form 7, Form 8, Mark 9, Form 5 and Series 5 – choose fromthe broadest line of gray iron, malleable iron and aluminumconduit outlet bodies, in any trade size and configuration youneed. Quality, reliability and fit are there every time.Learn the whole Condulet story at www.crouse-hinds.com.And check out the complete portfolio of electrical productswe plan to keep reinventing for the next 100 years.Jesse L. Hinds, housed at that time in a smallbuilding in Syracuse, New York.Albert Hill, the company’s forward-thinkingsales leader, understood that this conduit fittingcould revolutionize the market, and worked tosell the idea to Crouse, who was then the company’spresident. Interested, but skeptical, Crouse feltthe device would require too hefty an investment inmachinery. Undeterred, Hill eventually persuaded his bossand, soon after, the company developed the Condulet—coined by combining conduit and outlet.Coincidentally, the Condulet conduit fittings linewas introduced the same year as the tungsten filamentincandescent lamp as an alternative to the carbon lamp.Crouse-Hinds began manufacturing new reflectors andcases that became the forerunners of floodlights andsearchlights. With the success of the Condulet line andits new outdoor lighting product lines assured, Crouse-Hinds purchased 25 acres of land in northern Syracuse,where it is headquartered today.The Condulet family tree continued to grow. Bythe 1920s, Crouse-Hinds explosion-proof Conduletconduit fittings were widely used wherever there wasdanger from the presence of explosive vapours, gases orcombustible dusts. By 1971, there were 18,000 productsin the Condulet conduit fitting line being produced indomestic and international Crouse-Hinds manufacturingplants. Today, Cooper Industries Ltd. (of whichCooper Crouse-Hinds is one of eight divisions) has aglobal presence with revenues exceeding $4.7 billionUSD (30% in international sales), and is supplying theelectrical industry with over 100,000 products.“For one hundred years, loyal Cooper Crouse-Hindscustomers have made Condulet their choice in conduitoutlet bodies, making us the leader in this sector,” saysBrad Delans, the company’s global product line managerfor industrial fittings. To meet the evolving demand andenvironments, the Condulet line has expanded to six distinctfamilies of products, offered in 10 different shapes,and manufactured in sand-cast grey iron, malleableiron, copper-free aluminum and die-cast aluminum.“Through a constant stream of innovations being madeby our research engineers and draftsmen, we continueto develop products that provide the right fit for ourcustomer’s budgets and project needs,” Delans adds.Among the company’s latest cutting-edge launches areits Form 7, Form 8 and Mark 9 Condulet covers withintegral gasket. The integral gasket simplifies installationand reduces inventory and labour costs. Elegant in itssimplicity, the wedge-nut clip design on the Form 7 coversmakes installation and removal fast, saving time andreducing the labour costs associated with re-tapping damagedscrew holes. Form 8 and Mark 9 covers have stainlesssteel screws for direct assembly to the conduit body.Another new product advancement, Secondary ProcessSealing Fittings—made of a copper-free aluminum body,silicon rubber seal and polyethylene relief tube—preventsthe passage of gases under pressure (the first seal testedand certified for pressure applications) through conduits,cables and conductors. “They are the best solution wherevolatile liquids or gases are stored, processed or transportedunder pressure,” explains Delans, pointing outthat if the primary seal on an instrument should fail, thesecondary seal prevents gases from migrating to otherlocations through the electrical system.Delans credits his company’s lengthy roster of achievementsto its talented engineers and commitment to creatingadvanced solutions for our customers. “We have someof the best design and engineering minds in the business,and we’ve invested in the latest technology to deliver solutionsfrom which our customers significantly benefit. Forthe past 100 years, our Condulet has exemplified the highquality that customers expect from us, and we believe itslegacy will continue to power the world.” ETADVERTISING FEATURECooper Crouse HindsForm 7, Form 8 andMark 9 Conduletcovers withintegral gaskets.

Nerve centre brings new meaningto customer serviceEatonServing the needs of its large and diversifiedcustomer base for more than 90 years, EatonCorp., headquartered in Cleveland, Ohio, hasbeen synonymous with technological innovation sinceits inception, progressing from a small truck partssupplier to a multinational, multifaceted industrialmanufacturer, comprising four distinct segments:electrical, fluid power, truck and automotive—allcombining for a total of over $11 billion in 2005.Starting in 1911 when company founder andvisionary J.O. Eaton, his brother-in-law HenningO. Taube, and V. V. Torbensen incorporated theTorbensen Gear and Axle Co. in Bloomfield, N.J.,the fledgling firm built seven axles by hand in its firstyear of operations. Six years later, axle productionsoared to 33,000—made possible through increasedproduction automation.In 1930 the company acquired Wilcox-RichCorp., a producer of engine valves, tappets, valveseat inserts, hardened and ground engine parts,thus making Eaton the largest manufacturer of autovalves and tappets in the world. That same year thePeterson Spring Co. (coil springs) was also broughtinto the growing Eaton family of companies. Then,in 1978, Eaton purchased Cutler-Hammer Inc., aleader in industrial control and power distribution,aircraft, commercial, appliance and semiconductors,for nearly $400 million.Eaton’s electrical business today is a leader in electricalcontrol, power distribution, uninterruptiblepower systems and industrial automation productsand services, boasting sales of almost $4 billionin 2005. It’s a single-source, full-line manufacturerof leading electrical product brands such asCutler-Hammer, Powerware, Durant, Heinemann,HolecTM, MEM and Westinghouse. Eaton’s extensiveproducts, solutions and services meet globalelectrical standards such as IEC, CSA and ANSI/NEMA, provide a wide array of electrical solutionsfrom complex custom industrial and commercialassembly applications to simple, yet innovative residentialcomponents.Eaton worldwide currently has 60,000 employees,selling products to customers in more than 125 countries,including Canada. Eaton’s Canadian operations(www.eatonelectrical.ca), based in Burlington, Ont.,makes and markets an extensive range of top-qualityelectrical instruments and components, includingarc fault circuit breakers, fuse panel inserts, generatorpanels, loadcentres/residential breakers, networkprotectors, safety switches, power outlet panels,protective relays, surge suppression, panelboards,switchboards and switchgear.Due to its escalating numbers of electrical parts,about 12,000 SKUs (and counting), and driven byEaton’s ongoing commitment to service excellence,the company recently launched its ConsolidatedTransaction Centre (CTC) at its Burlington hub. It’s ahefty investment in the company’s future. The CTC isdesigned to streamline the complex process of handlingthe constant stream of incoming orders, invoicing,improving service levels, and expediting shipments ofproducts from its 80,000-sf warehouse and numerousCanadian manufacturing locations to customers.“The CTC is an initiative to improve the company’sinternal processes,” say the managers of theCTC. “Now that our order management functionis centralized, we have improved communicationsinto our plants, and this allows us to interface withour plants more effectively.” About 40% of incomingorders are tagged as “express” or standard ordersthat flow through the ordering and shipping systemsinstantaneously, while 60% of orders require more hands-on managementby project co-ordinators and technical engineers. Nowthat the CTC is operational, they have over a 97% order entry ratewithin 24 hours of receiving orders.Powering Eaton Canada’s state-of-the-art CTC nerve centreis its sophisticated order management software, Global Vista,a proprietary application developed by Eaton’s own innovativeteam of software engineers. “Global Vista is a component of asuite of proprietary applications (Bid Manager, Order Manager,Plant Order Manager, Customer Service and Stores Module) thatinterface with each other to form our automated order managementsystem,” explains the CTC leadership team. “In the U.S.,the application is called Vista and the Global Vista application wasdeveloped as the next generation platform to be used globally. It isIs the garage door closed?Is the basement flooding?Is the iron on?Now...be sure!Peace of mind at an affordable priceThe Home Heartbeat system is a new andinnovative way to increase your home awarenessby giving you vital information about theessential systems in your home.EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYpresently being used in China, Mexico and Canada.”In addition to Eaton’s solid commitment to creating ever-strongerrelationships with its Canadian customers, its people are alsoconstantly focusing on providing the electrical marketplace with asteady stream of new products based on cutting-edge technologicalinnovation. That means offering unparalleled customer-drivensolutions to address the changing needs of the industrial, utility,light commercial, residential and original equipment markets.“The introduction of the CTC is a big part of that commitment,because the faster we get our products to customers, thebetter, so you can keep your commitment to your customers,”emphasizes the CTC leadership. “You get the right gear at theright time, to get the project done on time, to provide the bestservice for end-users.” ETHome Heartbeat delivers peace of mindNo matter where you are the system deliversthe information you want about your home 24hours a day, 7 days a week. This system doesnot require a personal computer, monitors up to30 areas of a home, and is simple to set up.The system consists of a base station, a removabledisplay called the Home Key device, andwireless sensors. Available sensors include:Open/Closed, Water, Power, Garage, Reminderand Attention. Additional accessories include aRange Extender and an automatic Water Shut-Off Controller.Made for Today’s ConsumerThe system's Base Station receives wirelesssignals from sensors and sends alerts to theHome Key when in range or, if desired, sendsalerts to your cell phone as an e-mail or textmessage.Home Heartbeat will operate on a new wirelessnetworking standard called Zigbee, whichwill be used around the world. The wirelessdesign makes the system portable and easy toupgrade by adding new sensors and components.Fast and FlexibleHome Heartbeat can be set up in minutes.The Starter Pack includes the Base Station,Home Key and one Open/Closed Sensor.A complete range of available sensors providesflexibility and allows consumers to expand thesystem to meet their individual monitoringneeds.Information and AvailabilityFor more information, please visit the HomeHeartbeat website at:www.homeheartbeat.comADVERTISING FEATUREINFO NO. 26www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 29

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYOne team—total solutionsHD Supply CanadaAt HD Supply—the business-to-business wholesaledistribution division of The Home Depot—thefocus is on providing products and services for everyphase of the building life cycle. From infrastructure to constructionand lifetime maintenance and repair, each businessin the HD Supply Canada family possesses superb customerrelationships and proven expertise in its area.The HD Supply strategy is simple. Repeat in the professionalinfrastructure, construction and maintenance marketplacewhat The Home Depot did on the retail landscapesome 20 years ago.To-date, the Canadian family of companies includesthe legacy brands Litemor, SESCO/QUESCO, GraftonUtility Supply, Brafasco/CTF Supply and The Home DepotSupply (Commercial Direct). Drawing on the combinedstrengths and leading capabilities of each of its businesses,no one else in Canada has the ability to offer HD Supply’svalue proposition—an unparalleled mix of comprehensiveproduct and service offerings; in-depth product knowledge;strong customer and vendor relationships; a focus on superiorcustomer service; and a history and level of experienceunmatched in its industry.With anticipated revenues of $12 billion in 2006 and1000+ locations across North America, HD Supply employs26,000+ highly skilled professionals and is on a trajectory tobecome the world’s No. 1 diversified wholesaler. Throughcommunication, collaboration and innovation, these businessesand their employees are now coming together toprovide total solutions to the professional customer.To truly provide 360° solutions to its customers, HDSupply Canada must establish mechanisms and processesto facilitate connections among and across its businesses. ToAs the company grows and fosters greatercollaboration among its lines of businessthrough innovation and technology, itsrelationships will grow and become stronger aswell. With its tremendous family of companiesand more growth to come, HD Supply providesunmatched access to the products and servicesits customers need to be successful.this end, the company is looking at new sales and customerrelationship management tools for its sales force, and is inthe process of converting its branches to a new IT platform,Infor’s SX.enterprise.Several of HD Supply’s U.S. businesses were already on theSX.enterprise system, as was Grafton Utility Supply prior toacquisition earlier this year. Litemor, SESCO and the originalThe Home Depot Supply (Commercial Direct) businessare currently going through the conversion process.While IT conversions of this nature are always a largeundertaking, HD Supply’s employees are looking forward toreaping the benefits of the new system.Shared across the enterprise, the program will helpstreamline internal processes and enhance information sharingacross all businesses. From customer history, contactinformation and vendor partnership agreements to inventorymanagement, HD Supply employees will know moreabout all their businesses, meaning they can do more. Byautomating the ability to cross-sell products and services,and offer more innovative and complete solutions to customers,employees will be able to focus their attention whereit counts most—offering personalized customer service andproduct expertise.With its new shared ERP platform, HD Supply’s businesseswill enter a new era of business, with shared facilities,collaboration among shared people and greater success for itscustomers. The first shared facility is scheduled to open inCalgary in December. Beginning in 2007, the new 50,000-sfhybrid distribution centre and electrical branch will be HDSupply’s first facility to supply electrical, lighting and maintenance,repair and operations products all in one. The newfacility will extend HD Supply Canada’s reach in an importantmarket. Sharing a single ERP system across its businesseswill only make it easier for inside and outside sales forces tocollaborate and connect their customers with the right productsand services, where and when they need them.At HD Supply, employees are driven every day by a simplefact: Building relationships is just as important as buildingsomething. As the company grows and fosters greater collaborationamong its lines of business through innovation andtechnology, its relationships will grow and become strongeras well. With its tremendous family of companies and moregrowth to come, HD Supply provides unmatched access tothe products and services its customers need to be successful.HD Supply Canada is making history by reinventing theprofessional landscape in this country. The impressive growthdemonstrated to-date is only the beginning. The companywill continue to expand into new segments, geographies andbusinesses to better serve the professional customer. ETHomeDepot2_EB_Oct06 1INFO NO. 279/28/06 8:58:57 AMADVERTISING FEATURE30 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.com

Lighting’s largest breadth of lineHubbell Canada Inc.Imagine taking over 13 different lighting companies—utilizingeach one’s unique strengths,technical capabilities and manufacturing processes—thenrestructuring to bring the industry thestrongest and largest breadth of line to market.Meet Hubbell Lighting.Today, Hubbell Lighting offers North America’slargest breadth of line in the lighting industry.Representing over 13 different lighting brands,Hubbell has been busy putting their combinedtechnology and resources into products the markethas previously only dreamed about.“Progressive thinking is required in everythingwe bring to market today; from energy efficiency indesign to packaging with strong visual merchandisingelements,” explains Linda Linton, marketingmanager, who is eager to share some of HubbellLighting’s latest advancements.EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYProgressive marketing—ExpressLineLet’s face it, time is money; and ExpressLine is Hubbell’ssolution for saving you both time and money.In 2006, Hubbell Lighting introduced ExpressLineto the world and, less than one year later, hasexpanded the program to create what distributors arecalling a “highly progressive” marketing program.The product is value priced and provides excellentquality. The selection is designed to meet yourdaily needs at the counter. To speed up the selectionprocess, ExpressLine products ship in visually merchandisedboxes that show their features. Once youpurchase products from an ‘Alliance’ distributorpartner, you are immediately eligible for a cash-back(easy to claim) rebate, furtherreducing the cost of theExpressLine product.Distributors love this new,no-risk program that encouragessupport, good inventorylevels and product availabilityat the counter. Therecent October expansionof this program includesthe cash-back contractorcomponent and 16new products, includingworklights, landscapelighting, low-bays andsurface-mount fixtures.Thinking outside the boxLED downlightsIndustry’s thinnest fluorescent trofferColumbia Lighting’s technologically innovative ‘Zero Plenumtroffer’ is 1.5-in. thick, providing lighting in applications wherethere is almost no plenum space left in the ceiling for traditionalfixtures. This technology from Hubbell’s commercial fluorescentbrand allows the fixture to slide together for insertioninto the ceiling T-grid, then expanding to fill the T-grid area.Unlike other fixtures that need clearance overhead so they canbe turned and dropped into position. You’re going to simplylove this fixture for retrofits or installations where the lightinghas been left to the very end and the plenum is congested withcables and conduit.The roadway shoebox reborn!Anyone dealing with lighting is familiar with theindustry’s boxy roadway fixture, affectionately known as a‘shoebox’. The Hubbell Lighting’s Spaulding division haslowered the EPA (effective projected area) on a classic fixture,rounded the housing’s corners and created what is quicklybecoming the top-selling roadway fixture for Hubbell Canada.Called ‘Cimarron’, this ingenius product is a designer’s dreambecause of its simplicity in styling and superior functionality.It also boasts seven standard paint finishes, four lamp sources,six ballast options and nine wattages. ETAll about the peopleGreat new products are important but it’s people that reallydrive the lighting business. Hubbell Canada has restructuredand added a new and responsive team to the mix—a team thatis ready and willing to service the needs of Hubbell agents, distributorsand customers. Meet:Greg Foster,distributionsales managerMichel Beaumier,Eastern regionsales managerClaude Blache,Eastern region salesmanagerDeborah Lawrence,product managerInnovation has always been a part of Prescolite’sheritage, so it makes perfect sense that LEDshave been integrated into Prescolite’s downlightingproduct line. Combined with a patented reflector,the LED light engine drives the downlight toprovide uniform illumination. Users may realizeup to 50,000 hours of use from this technologyat a fraction of the energy traditionally consumedby other light sources. Available in both 4-in. and6-in. versions, you have to ask: Who doesn’t loverecessed lighting?ADVERTISING FEATURE“Progressive thinking is required in everythingwe bring to market today; from energy efficiencyin design to packaging with strong visual merchandisingelements.”www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 31

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYThe one-stop-shop for electriciansand datacom installersIDEAL Industries (Canada) Corp.With the launches of PowerPlug (the very first disconnectmeeting both the new CEC 30-308[4] and NEC410.73[G] for non-residential fluorescent fixtures withballasts), as well as the recent introduction of its state-of-the-artSIGNALTEK cable performance tester—not to mention a breakthroughline of 1000A and 600A clamp meters—IDEAL Industries(Canada) Corp. builds products designed to give electricians unparalleledsafety, convenience and reliable performance.A privately held company—with the youngest shareholder representingthe fifth-generation descendant of founder J. Walter Becker—IDEAL has been synonymous with innovation for nearly a century.Innovation with a Purpose.©2005 IDEAL INDUSTRIES, INC.INFO NO. 2832 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comBecker developed the first commutator dresser stones, dramaticallyreducing the time required for maintaining electric motors. An ambitiousentrepreneur, he opened the doors to the IDEAL CommutatorDresser Co. of Chicago, Ill. in 1916. Eight years later he moved thecompany to Sycamore, Ill., where it quickly became established as amanufacturing and marketing leader. In 1928, the same year IDEALbegan selling products into Canada, the company produced the firstscrew-on wire connector—the venerable Wire-Nut—a simple devicethat eliminated the old-fashioned solder and tape method of wireconnection, forever changing the way electricians work.Coupled with a strong track record of growth and continuingTest & MeasurementWhat good is an accuratereading if you can’t readit accurately? With therevolutionary new SureTest ®Circuit Tracer, they go handin hand. A super-brightdisplay on the receiver hasan exclusive rotating feature.Regardless of what positionyou put the receiver in, thedisplay will orient itself in 90ºincrements to stay upright.Plus, the very powerful tracerbrings you four clearlydefined modes of operation:Search High, Search Low,Trace Mode and BreakerMode. At last there’s a circuittracer that adjusts to the wayyou work and not the otherway around.Identify the circuitwithout a trace of difficulty.Visit www.testersandmeters.comand see exactly why the SureTestCircuit Tracer helps you keep upwhile on the job.innovation, and strengthened by its roster of over6000 products—including a comprehensive line oftest and measurement instruments, voice and datacable installation products, and wire processing toolsand machinery—IDEAL is firmly positioned as aglobal trailblazer in designing, producing and sellinghigh-quality tools and supplies to the electrical, communicationsand aerospace industries.“At IDEAL, our sights are set on the future,”says director of marketing and sales, Dorothy Tully-Petersen, from the company’s Canadian headquartersin Ajax, Ont. (established here in 1963). “We are makingmajor investments in the company and the peoplewho are dedicated to helping us achieve our goals.”The unique corporate culture at IDEAL supports andinspires teamwork among its worldwide employeeswhile maintaining respect for individuality. “IDEALprovides an environment that encourages innovation,creativity and new ideas—where opportunitiesabound to make an impact,” she adds.Pinpointing its focus on R&D, Tully-Petersen notesthat the company continually strives for new technologiesand processes to improve its products. “As constantlychanging technology and performance requirements createnew opportunities, we challenge ourselves to respondwith smart product solutions. Creating products thatrevolutionize an industry and continually improvingthem is one of our company’s key trademarks.”Much of IDEAL’s specialized assembly equipment,as well as many of its progressive dies and precisionmetal working (stamping, drilling and form-grinding),were designed and built by its ingenious corps ofin-house engineers and technicians—all supported bythe company’s San Diego, Calif. Research Center. “Bycontrolling manufacturing, we know the product isthe best that it can be,” insists Tully-Petersen.That commitment to excellence in technology isembodied in IDEAL’s one-of-a-kind PowerPlug BallastDisconnect, set to power its way onto the Canadian marketin early 2007 to coincide with electrical code changesthat will require this type of ballast disconnect for safetyreasons. It’s the sole disconnect with push-in technologyfor fast ballast replacements on solid and stranded wireduring installation. PowerPlug is targeted as the idealsolution for OEM or retrofit lighting installations, a toolrequiring low insertion force for quick and easy connections,resulting in labour-saving cost benefits.A feature-rich, handheld cable tester with a userfriendlygraphical interface designed for use by datacominstallers, electrical contractors and the IT/networkmanager to verify that installed cabling willsupport VDV applications (such as Gigabit Ethernet),SIGNALTEK offers true Gigabit performance testingby transmitting 10/100/1000 Mbps Ethernet packetsand measuring errors on the link in accordancewith the IEEE 802.3ab Gigabit Ethernet standard.This simple ‘pass/fail’ test determines within secondswhether or not the installed cable can support applicationssuch as Ethernet or Gigabit Ethernet. Featuringan integrated time domain reflectometer to test cabletypes, including twisted pair data, coax, telephone,security alarm and audio cables, SIGNALTEK alsoaccurately measures cable length and aids in findingfaults, such as shorts, split pairs and opens.Made to provide unparalleled safety and to meet theneeds of electricians working in residential, industrialand commercial applications, IDEAL’s new 1000Aand 600A clamp meters are armed with a bright andbold main display, rugged construction with largetapered jaws, and a wire separating hook tip. Availablein five models and purpose-built for measuring highvoltagesystems in tight, hard-to-reach panel boards,the meters are the world’s first to have the patentedTightSight LCD: a second display built into thebottoms of the testers that makes all the differencein enabling electricians to view readings safely fromvirtually any angle.“Our unique products make the work of electriciansand installers safer and easier with warranties they cantrust,” states Tully-Petersen. “And every IDEAL productcomes with the promise of unsurpassed reliabilitymade by our founder more than 90 years ago.”ETADVERTISING FEATURE

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYSay good-bye to frozen engines in CanadaIPLC/Vantera Inc.Delivering the firepower to heat up frozenvehicle engines on frosty winter morningsis the concept igniting the IntelligentParking Lot Controller (a.k.a. IPLC). Developedby IPLC/Vantera Inc. of Elie, Man., this device isan energy-efficient, high-tech outdoor home andcommercial parking lot power outlet for engineblock heaters.Designed by company founder, Glenn Rosendahl,Ph.D.—who boasts academic credentials in bothelectrical and computer engineering disciplines—the innovative IPLC unit is a box-like apparatusdie cast from virgin Z3, and can be plugged directlyinto a standard Canadian outdoor electrical outlet.As a self-heating device, it’s capable of operatingwithin a temperature range of -55°C to 85°C.“What makes our IPLC unique is the flexibilitybehind the computerized brains of the unit, whichwork to reduce electrical consumption and costs bymore than half,” says Rosendahl as he lists IPLC’sfeatures: it can be installed in minutes withoutspecial wiring; it provides a single solution for newor retrofit jobs; and all of its complex functionsare managed by an expandable software programmingcapability that can be quickly upgraded tokeep pace with vehicle technology advances. “Thisapplies to the hybrid class of cars,” he adds. “Thesevehicles need to charge onboard battery systems,which demands parking lot control systems be flexibleand adaptable.”Conventional block heaters apply a constantheating load to a vehicle’s heating equipment,irrespective of engine temperature or external conditions.The IPLC controls the amount of energysent to the heater, taking into account a number offactors, including outdoor temperature and windchill, the amount of current drawn and length oftime the heater has been plugged in. Current isonly sent to the block heater once the engine hascooled, thus eliminating a major source of energywaste. One IPLC unit can control the heating fortwo vehicles.The controller runs under customized software(compatible with the latest Windows software),recording data on its own use and performance,including calculated energy savings, total/averagetime in use, size of load (in watts), and numberof overloads, attempted short circuits and shorttermpower failures. The IPLC also checks blockheater function and can alert the user to any malfunction.An optional interface unit enables data tobe downloaded to a computer for further analysis,or to change the control schemes at differentparking locations.For example: when a vehicle is first plugged intothe controller, full power is applied for two to threeminutes to check the function of the vehicle’s heatingequipment. This system check is followed bya period of no charge, since the vehicle’s engine isstill warm from use. After two hours, the controllerbegins a four-hour cycling mode, where full poweris applied for part of each 4.5-min. cycle dependingon the ambient temperature:• above -5°C, no power is applied• between -5°C and -25°C, power is applied for20% to 100% of the cycle• below -25°C, power is applied constantly.Finally, the IPLC enters full power mode for threehours to prepare the vehicle for use.This translates into significant energy savingswhen using an IPLC unit. The two-hour powerdelay at the beginning of the cycle alone is responsiblefor a 25% energy saving over other cyclingcontrols. On average, each unit saves between 600to 1400 kWh/year (depending on the vehicle’s loadsize and usage): a saving of around 65% comparedwith a conventional uncontrolled block heater.ADVERTISING FEATUREDuring its projected service life of about 15 years (and growing),the savings per IPLC unit could amount to over 21,000 kWh.On the environmental plus side, each IPLC unit can reducecarbon dioxide emissions by 0.6 tonnes/year on average, or byover 9 tonnes during its service life.Currently, almost five million vehicles in Canada need toplug into block heaters to ensure starting. “Were our devicesmore widely used, there could be substantial energy savingsall around,” nods Rosendahl. Last year, his company sold over15,000 units (retailing at about $150 each) to homes, multitenantfacilities and institutions (i.e. hospitals and schools), andfor municipal services, such as snowplows and municipal wastetrucks. And the markets for IPLC keep growing as the companymakes its mark across the country, and positions itself to capturethe U.S. market in the coming years.Attention: Electrical Contractors and ElectriciansSHOW YOUR CLIENTS HOW TOSAVE 65% IN POWER COSTS WITH THEIntelligent ParkingLot Controller (IPLC) *Red and green LEDs indicate liveoutlet or block heater problemsCast metal case ensures durabilityOptical data port permitsindividualized outlet programmingElectronics embedded inweatherproof elastomer block toassure long-term reliabilityUnit controls two power circuitsindependentlyEach unit installs in 15 minutesDuplex receptacle andweather-proof cover arestandard off-the-shelfitems for replacementUnit attaches securely toa variety of parking lotjunction boxesCHECK WITH YOUR PROVINCIALELECTRIC UTILITY FOR ANYINSTALLATION REBATES ORINCENTIVES THAT MAY BE AVAILABLEVisit us online at iplc.com orcall toll-free 866-353-2785.IPLC** Recipient of Natural Resources Canada, Office of EnergyEfficiency, 2000-2002 Energy Management Technology AwardDeveloped and marketed by Vantera Incorporated.Available from our stocking distributor:Following years of positive field data, IPLC has receivedringing endorsements for its stingy energy consumptionfrom Natural Resources Canada’s Office of Energy Efficiency,and from Manitoba Hydro Power Smart programs, whichhave started offering up to $100 in incentives forIPLC purchasers.“We manufacture the IPLC unit in-house to achieve topnotchquality control and enhanced customer satisfaction,”states Rosendahl. “Building managers will enjoy energy savingswhile reducing their installation, maintenance and customersupport costs. The parking lot patron is happy to know his caris plugged in (shown with feedback lights) and will start whenneeded. Municipalities will be confident their trucks will beheated and ready to go to do their jobs when needed most. It’swin-win for everyone.” ETSAVINGS WILL HELP YOURCLIENTS PAY FOR UNIT INAS LITTLE AS ONE YEAR✔ Easy low-cost retrofit to existing parking lotjunction boxes and stall-by-stall conversionsprovide phase-in flexibility.✔ Factory programmed or fully programmable forcustom needs.✔ Smart technology measures temperature toregulate power delivery, ensuring starts at anytemperature for maximum efficiency.✔ Internal unit diagnostics save unnecessaryservice calls and avoid tripped breakers - knowthe what, when and where of any problem.✔ Customer-friendly colour LEDs alert car ownersto faulty extension cords or block heaters, andreduce needless complaints.✔ Ten years use in the field with 99.8% reliability.INFO NO. 29www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 33IPLC_EB_Aug2006 1 7/5/06 2:20:28 PM

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYWebsite tools make product selection easierLapp CanadaFrom engineer to buyer and all points in between,Lapp Canada has made product selection easierfor the end user. Located at www.lappcanada.com, the Lapp Canada website contains the entire 724-page product catalogue, which can be downloaded andsearched in a variety of ways, including by part number orkeyword. Lapp Canada has the solutions for specifying avariety of products faster and easier.Lapp Offers a Rugged AbrasionResistant PUR Power Supply CableADVERTISEMENTLapp Offers a Flexible, Halogen Free, andVery Durable Control CableProblem: Finding the cable that best suits your needs.Solution: Simply go to the new Lapp Cable Selector andenter your requirements.Lapp Canada’s Cable Selector helps you find the cable best suitingyour requirements by going through a variety of criteria,such as: application, cable size, materials, approvals, temperature,shielded/unshielded and voltage requirements.Once you enter your requirements, a compatible list of cablesis generated. The results are listed by part number, description,insulation, jacket, temperature range and voltage. Once a cableis selected from the list, simply click on the link to view, print ordownload the detailed product specification page. It’s that easy!Lapp Offers a PUR Cable to withstandExtreme Mechanical StressesProblem: Need to install cable faster andcheaper?Solution: Let Lapp show you how to install cablefaster and save as much as 40%.Lapp Canada has a new website tool that calculatesproject savings when using OLFLEX® Tray II Cable.Simply go to the Lapp Tray Calculator and enteryour requirements. Select the cables, cable run length,number of cable drops and the length of the cabledrop to calculate how much you can save versus pullingpipe and wire or using a traditional tray cable.Extra features include selecting your actual costs forthe components for a very clear savings advantage!Using OLFLEX® Tray II can save you as much as40% in material and labour costs.Eliminate the need for conduit and fittings, andinstall your cable much faster using OLFLEX® TrayII and see the savings for yourself.OLFLEX ® 590 P is a multi-conductor, 600volt, 80°C, TPE insulated, flexible powersupply cable with a rugged, abrasionresistant polyurethane jacket. The TPEinsulation and UV resistant polyurethanejacket allow this cable to be used bothindoors and outdoors in wet, dry andextremely cold conditions. The cable isflame retardant and is colored safety yellow.It has been safety tested and approved byUL and CSA. Recommended applicationsinclude power supply for portable hand toolsand appliances.For more information, call toll free (888)456-3539 or visit www.lappcanada.com.OLFLEX ® PUR S is a flexible control cable withconductor insulation and outer jacket of blackpolyurethane (PUR). The outer jacket andconductor insulation of halogen-free PUR makethe cable suitable within a wide temperaturerange and highly resistant to almost all mineraloils. Due to the excellent tear resistance valuesof the PUR compound, OLFLEX ® PUR S is alsovery resistant to mechanical wear and tear.Shielded and other versions available uponrequest.For more information, call toll free (888)456-3539 or visit www.lappcanada.com.OLFLEX ® -FD 855 P has been designed forextreme mechanical stresses. The materialsused are low halogen and environment-friendlywith an expanded temperature range.OLFLEX ® -FD 855 P can be used withoutrestriction in the most modern automatedmanufacturing systems. It is excellent in cabletrack applications. Insulation and jacketingmaterials are mechanically and chemicallyresistant in any environment. The polyurethanejacket is flame retardant.For more information, call toll free (888)456-3539 or visit www.lappcanada.com.Problem: Need to find the right strain relief foryour connector or cable?Solution: Use the Lapp SKINTOP® Selector.Lapp offers a wide variety of cable glands and strainrelief. The selection process for these connectors isnow easier with a new search tool. Choose the typeof strain relief, thread type and enter your cable outerdiameter and click Submit to receive a list of compatiblepart numbers.Problem: Need to use connectors of varyingvoltages and amperages in a limited space?Solution: EPIC® Modular Connector Series withan easy to use Selector.Lapp Offers Continuous FlexHalogen Free Ethernet CablesUNITRONIC ® EtherLine ® Cat.5 Plus(continuous flex) is a halogen free, finestranded, oil resistant PUR cable designed forcontinuous flex applications. The speciallydesigned Internal Conductor Wrap ensuresproper cable performance during flex motion.The cable meets standard EIA/TIA-568; TSB-36 & ISO/IEC 11801 “Generic Cabling forCustomer Premises” for class “D” links. TheUNITRONIC ® EtherLine ® FD P Cat. 5 Plus isavailable in a two and four pair version.For more information, call toll free (888)456-3539 or visit www.lappcanada.com.Lapp Offers Highly Flexible DataTransmission CablesUNITRONIC ® -FD P Plus is a highly flexibledata transmission cable with a polyolefininsulation and a polyurethane outer jacket,which allows our cables to have excellentelectrical properties and temperature rating.The UNITRONIC ® -FD P Plus is a cost effectivesolution for machine tools requiring along service life in harsh environments. Thetear resistant polyurethane outer jacket isalso resistant to mineral oils and abrasion incable track applications. It is suitable for usein clean room applications. UNITRONIC ® -FDP Plus is halogen free and flame retardant.UNITRONIC ® -FD CP Plus is the shieldedversion of this cable with a tinned copperbraid. UNITRONIC ® -FD CP TP Plus UL/CSAis the paired shielded version of this cable.For more information, call toll free (888)456-3539 or visit www.lappcanada.com.Contact us for themost completePolyurethane cableselectionData, Signal, Control,ol,Power, , and CompositeCablesT op notch performance inoils, cutting fluids, andarctic temperatureses888-456-3539www.lappcanada.comThe modular line of rectangular connectors offersgreat flexibility in literally designing your own connectorto fit the application. This tool makes buildinga connector easier from the selection of modularframes, modules and contacts. The user will needto know the total number of conductors that willbe connected to the modular insert, their gauge size(AWG), and the voltage and current they will be carrying.Once you have entered your requirements, aSummary page will list all of the components. Thispage provides a list of all part numbers for both maleand female inserts based on the selections, with linksto detailed product pages. There are links for thehoods and bases next to the frame summary to helpwith the housing selection.Problem: Need a connector or strain relief foryour cable?Solution: Enter your cable number and find allthe mating connectors and strain relief.Once your cable has been specified, you can findeither the rectangular connector or strain relief thatfits your cable. For connectors, enter your cable partnumber and a list of compatible connectors is generated,with key features to narrow your search. ForSKINTOPS®, enter your cable part number andchoose the type of strain relief you require.All product searches and selectors lead to detailedspecification pages, which can be printed ordownloaded in PDF format. Lapp Canada makesselecting your components even faster and easierwhen you visit www.lappcanada.com and click onthe advanced product searches link. ETINFO NO. 3034 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comADVERTISING FEATURE

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYA century of technological excellenceLeviton Manufacturing of Canada Ltd.ADVERTISING FEATUREThe Leviton Manufacturing Co. traces its origins tothe dawn of the electrical era in 1906, when theentrepreneurial imagination of company founder,Isador Leviton, was kindled to bring the power of technologicalinnovations to a growing global market.As a modest start-up enterprise in Brooklyn, N.Y.,Leviton initially produced mantle tips for the gas lightingused to illuminate urban streets and homes. As theuse of electricity became more pervasive, the companyconverted to the production of a single electrical productin 1910: a pull-chain lampholder. By 1922, Leviton’sengineers had fashioned over 560 new products, settingthe stage for the company’s story of legendary success inthe electrical industry.Over the ensuing decades, Leviton grew exponentiallyby bringing electrical manufacturing companies—including wire, cable and cord producers—into its foldthrough strategic acquisitions: a legacy that continuestoday. Entering its second century, Leviton is now thelargest privately held manufacturer of electrical and electronicdevices in North America, with representatives inover 100 countries, and encompassing 16 manufacturingfacilities worldwide and seven distribution centres inCanada and the United States.Established in 1953, Leviton Manufacturing ofCanada Ltd. continues to keep its promise of providingelectricians and their customers with the kind ofquality products, reliability and service that has madethe Leviton brand a household name, and the only onein the industry to offer a complete range of products,including switches, receptacles, connectors and lightingcontrols, as well as transient surge protectors and voice/data communication products.“Although our reputation has been built on developingleading-edge products to the residential sector, we aremuch more than that,” says Jean Belhumeur, presidentand COO of Leviton in Canada, based in Pointe-Claire,Que. “Within our range of 29,000 SKUs, only about10% of our product mix is targeted to the residentialmarket. Our vision for the next decade is to leverageLeviton’s brand name recognition among electriciansand contractors to expand further into the commercialand industrial markets. We are positioned to be the vendorof choice by our customers, and as the contractor’sone-stop-shopping source for every residential, commercialand industrial project.”To ensure that vision is realized, a customized warehousemanagement system—one developed by Levitonin the States—was recently implemented at Leviton’s108,000-sf Canadian warehouse. The system is designedto track every product from the moment it enters the facilityuntil it’s loaded on a trailer and ready to go. Leviton’snew electronic scanners scan all products within the massivefacility no less than four times during the shippingand receiving process, resulting in the highest inventorymanagement accuracy rate: about 99.4%. “We now canship 27% more cartons in a day, all orders shipped within24 hours of being received,” notes Belhumeur.The proud holder of more than 600 patents createdby Leviton’s inspired research and development teams,the company is as committed today to its tradition oftechnological excellence as ever.“We’re especially pleased that our Acenti Collectionhas won the prestigious IDEA Award (presented by TheIndustrial Designers Society of America) for Best NewProduct Design of 2005,” states Belhumeur. Levitonteamed with renowned innovation and design firmIDEO—designers of the original mouse for AppleComputer and the Palm V handheld computer—to reinventthe most ubiquitous products in the home: electrical switches,lighting controls and receptacles. Acenti’s revolutionary new Triplexreceptacle can accommodate three plugs simultaneously, eliminatingthe need for a power strip or adapter. For installers, Acenti expandsthe choices they can offer to their customers and enhances the look ofthe finished job. Acenti’s patent-pending alignment system includesan alignment plate with positioning pins, multifunction clips on eachdevice and contoured, screwless snap-on wallplates. The multifunctionclips grip the positioning pins to ensure alignment of devicesand wallplate.“The Acenti Collection was developed to meet the growing residentialmarket demand for luxury appliances, fixtures, furnishings,and window and wall treatments,” explains Belhumeur. “There’ssimply no other suite of residential electrical devices offering thislevel of aesthetics, build quality and functionality.”Building on its heritage of success, Leviton recently announcedAND WE'RE STILL INNOVATING…Theatrical and stage lightingCommercial and residential lighting controlsVoice and Data solutions up to 10GExclusive reusable fiber optic connectorsPower quality solutionsMultimedia entertainment platformsNetworking capabilitiesAudio systemsResidential surveillance systemsIndustrial connectivity and data solutionsWith our new warehousesystem in place we'rebetter positioned than everto give you a solutionthat meets your needsin the time you require!Let our technically trained stafftake care of you.Call us today at 1 800 405-5320.the acquisition of Fiber Connect Inc., a Chicago, Ill.-based providerof data centre fibre optic solutions. With this latest addition, thecompany’s Voice and Data division extends its leading-edge fibresolutions to a wider audience of distributors, contractors and endusers.Belhumeur points out that the synergies of this new alliancewill bring the benefits of a broad, high-performance fibre solution(including quick-turn, custom, a full range of Cat-rated connectivity—including10G—as well as cable management and power solutions)to Leviton’s customers worldwide.“Today it’s imperative for those of us serving the electrical industryto recognize where the compelling opportunities for growthlie; to harvest these and seize on the many exciting breakthroughsthat will continue to transform our world,” states Belhumeur. “Thehallmark of Leviton’s legacy is the assurance of customer satisfaction,profitability and value—ideals that transcend eras and form alasting framework for success.” ETINFO NO. 31www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 35

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYMaking noise about its whisperPanasonic Canada Inc.With almost 90 years of electronics history under its belt,the Panasonic brand has long been synonymous withtechnological innovation. Founded in Osaka, Japan in 1918,Matsushita Electric Industrial Co. Ltd. (MEI)—of whichPanasonic Canada Inc. (PCI) is a principal Canadian subsidiary—thiselectronics giant currently comprises over 600 companiesworldwide. MEI manufactures and markets over 15,000quality electronic products for industry, business and the homeunder such brands as Panasonic, National, Technics and Quasar.PCI began in Toronto with seven employees in 1967 and hassince grown to over 560 employees across Canada.Remaining firmly rooted in the ‘customer-first’ philosophyof its founder, Konosuke Matsushita (who first ignited thePanasonic odyssey by inventing a modest two-way light socket),Mother nature smiles as Panasonic introducesa new series of advanced ventilation fans designedto improve the quality of the indoor air we breatheeveryday. WhisperGreen features revolutionarytechnologies that deliver unparalleled performance.An extremely efficient DC motor powers the patented TechnoFlowSystem. This reduces the sone value to levels that were previouslythought to be unattainable. In addition, the DC motor provides thecapability for a range of new features;SmartFlow TechnologyA unique “electronic-brain” calculates the static pressure and automaticallyadjusts the fan speed to ensure the desired ventilation levels are metCustomVent Variable Speed ControlFollowing a predetermined time delay, after the wall switch is turned off,the fan will adjust from a high speed of 80 CFM to a lower, pre-set, levelof 30-70 CFM ensuring continuous ventilation rates are maintainedSmartAction Motion SensorAutomatically detects occupancy and increases or decreases the fanspeed to pre-set CFM levelsA WhisperGreen ventilation fan provides the ideal solution forintermittent and continuous ventilation and it’s so quiet that you mightnot even know it’s on!INFO NO. 3236 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comthe company’s standards of technological excellence continueto make it one of the world’s largest and most successfulelectronics enterprises.“We’re as committed as ever to R&D, to pushing the boundariesof technology on a spectrum of fronts,” says Charlie Hunt, directorof developmental sales at PCI’s Mississauga, Ont. headquarters.“Our research engineers regularly go into the field to meet with ourcustomer base to ascertain the needs of today’s professional tradespeople,then develop products meeting those needs.”The recent launches of next-generation cordless tools poweredby lithium-ion batteries, and super-quiet WhisperGreenventilation fans speak to PCI’s emphasis on R&D, and reinforcethe company’s reputation as one that’s continuously expandingits suite of leading-edge products.For more information, please visit usat www.panasonic.ca or e-mail usat ventilationfans@ca.panasonic.comPanasonic_EB_Nov2006 1 10/20/06 12:49:47 PM“We are constantly striving to bringconcrete form to future technologies,Backed by our comprehensive R&Dstrength around the world, thischallenging spirit helps us addressthe diverse needs of our customers.”Designed to work harder and stay cooler, the newlithium-ion (Li-ion) powered tools give the electricianthe edge on the toughest jobs. The advancedCobalt Lithium-Ion technology delivers high outputpower and low heat generation. Li-ion batteriesoffer a much shorter charging time than nickel-cadmiumbatteries. Li-ion batteries also boast a constantdischarge rate, meaning power output remainsconstant until the battery is depleted—somethingthat nickel-cadmium batteries lack.Panasonic’s Lithium-Ion tools use a brushlessmotor that lasts about twice as long as a conventionalmotor. The result is 20% more work perbattery charge. In addition, an electronic performancemonitoring system monitors each batterycell individually to help prevent over-dischargingand overheating. This provides double the lifetimetotal performance of the battery pack.What really differentiates Panasonic from otherpower tool manufacturers, says Hunt, is the company’sexpertise in battery production: “We notonly make the tools but also the right batteries tocomplement them”.The philosophy of ‘making things right’ also appliesto the Panasonic WhisperGreen ventilation fans.“New homes are built airtight to enhance comfortand improve energy efficiency, but ventilation is a keyelement in maintaining healthy indoor air quality,”says Digby Campbell, PCI’s regional sales manager,ventilation products in Mississauga, Ont., pointingout that proper ventilation ensures excessive moistureand potentially harmful indoor pollutants are removedfrom the home. “Our ceiling exhaust fans are designedto move air quietly in an energy-efficient way. Ournew product line—which has been developed byPanasonic engineers for super-quiet operation—isideal for use in single- and multi-family housing, andcommercial applications.”WhisperGreen fans are dramatically moreenergy efficient because of their DC motor technology.This motor powers a patented TechnoFlowsystem that reduces the sone value to levels thatwere previously thought unattainable. At the sametime, a unique ‘electronic brain’ calculates the staticpressure and automatically adjusts the fan speedto ensure proper ventilation levels are maintained.Continuous ventilation is achieved through a variablespeed control that adjusts the fan speed to alower, preset level following a predetermined timedelay after the wall switch is turned off. An optionalSmartAction motion sensor automatically detectsthe presence of an occupant and activates the fan.Panasonic offers a complete line of ventilation fansfor home or business. Whether it’s a fan, a light, asource of heat or a combination of all three, Panasonichas the right product. They are gentle on the ears, easyon the energy bill and simple to install.R&D at Panasonic is a mandate that hinges onthe company’s vast international assets. “We areconstantly striving to bring concrete form to futuretechnologies,” says Hunt. “Backed by our comprehensiveR&D strength around the world, thischallenging spirit helps us address the diverse needsof our customers.” ETADVERTISING FEATURE

‘Dwarf’ technology protectsenclosure cooling systemsRittal Systems Ltd.EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYWhat non-stick cookware and the maintenance-freecar battery have done for consumers,nanotechnology is starting to dofor heavy industry.Derived from the Greek word nano (‘dwarf’), nanotechnologydescribes a variety of material analysis andprocessing technologies that all work in dimensionsbelow 100 nanometres, or one millionth of a metre. Toput it into perspective, that’s 50,000 times smaller thanthe diameter of a human hair!Nano-coating equipment in work environments withless-than-ideal air quality, like a foundry or castingplant, can make a maintenance-intensive cooling unitvirtually maintenance-free for long periods.Rittal—a world-leading supplier of industrial housingand enclosure systems—expects that applying itsproprietary nano-coating RiNano to products like itsTopTherm series of industrial air-conditioners willprovide customers with immediate cost benefits, andvirtually eliminate production downtime resulting frompoor maintenance habits.the units with nano-coating performed exceptionally.“Due to the dusty environment here, conventional coolersneed a filter change every week, but the RiNano-coated unitsdid not require any service during the nine months,” saysDietmar Vielwerth, maintenance manager at the Audi plant.By virtually eliminating air-conditioner failures due to maintenanceissues, Audi avoided another problem.“The most dangerous consequence of cooler failures due toinadequate maintenance is the necessity to open up an overheatedenclosure and expose the electronics to the ambient air,”says Audi/Ingolstadt process engineer Konrad Mayer. “Thesubsequent penetration of dust might compromise the system’sreliability and create unpredictability and the threat of furtherfailures in the future.”The field-test project concluded that it costs over $5 per unitper week in new filters and labour to properly maintain TopThermunits without RiNano coating. Multiply that by dozens or evenhundreds of cooling units in a plant, and the losses add up—andthat’s without even counting lost production time because ofoverheated enclosures. RiNano-coated units deliver consistentcooling performance with much longer intervals between routinemaintenance and, when the units are cleaned, there is much lesswork involved.And that’s technology you can bank on! ETRiNano coating to become standard featureRittal is applying RiNano on the condensers of itsTopTherm cooling units sold in all markets, includingthose supplied by Rittal in Canada.RiNano comprises different classes of nanoparticlesthat arrange themselves intelligently during applicationand form a solid bond with the surface of condensers,creating an extremely durable and ultra-thin glasslikecoating that is dirt and dust resistant. With RiNanocoatedTopTherm units, contaminants circulating inthe ambient air pass through the cooling units withoutsticking to grills or condensers. (Where oil-bearing contaminantsare prevalent, metal filters are still used, buttheir service life and maintenance intervals are greatlyextended.) Permanently sealing the surface pores leavesno bonding surface for contaminants.Rittal’s RiNano-coated TopTherm condensers staycleaner much longer. In large industrial settings, maintenance—or,specifically, the lack of timely cleaningand filter changes—is the Achilles heel of conventionalcooling units used to cool process control electronics.Poorly maintained units can suffer a 30% to 50% lossof cooling efficiency, leading to the potential failure ofentire process control systems.In many dust-laden environments, filter replacementis a weekly requirement that is often forgotten or notdone as frequently as it should be. This is why themaintenance-free aspects of RiNano applications are soappealing to plant managers and process engineers.Audi takes RiNano for test driveAt one auto casting plant in Germany, TopTherm unitswithout RiNano coating were being used to cool Rittalcontrol panels with touchscreens and embedded PCs.Temperatures ranged as high as 50 º C. Frequently, therequired maintenance was not performed on the units,which is why their air intake grills and filter mats wouldclog up. Airflow was reduced which, in turn, hamperedperformance until the PCs eventually failed. At this point,of course, production would stop to allow for repairs.Swapping out these conventional units for newRiNano-coated cooling units solved all the problems.The nano-coated TopTherm condensers provided nogrip for contaminants like water, dirt and oil.At Audi’s brake disc manufacturing plant in Ingolstadt,Germany, the 1500W TopTherm units used to coolRittal TS8 process control enclosure cabinets ingest airladen with dust from metal casting processes. The coolingunits run 24/7 and never operate in standby mode.Summertime temperatures reach as high as 40 º C in theplant. Over a nine-month trial ending this past April,ADVERTISING FEATUREWE Have the Pieces,YOU Complete the PuzzleFully CertifiedCarbon steel, stainless steel and fibreglassNEMA 12, 4 & 4X protectionMounting panel included, zinc galvanizedReversible door hingingAvailable locally in stockWallmount Enclosures...the ideal solution!Rittal Systems Ltd.Mississauga • Montreal • Calgary • Vancouverwww.rittal.casales@rittal.caINFO NO. 33www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 37Rittal_EB_Nov2006 1 11/23/06 3:39:13 PM

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYBringing cutting-edge technologyto Enterprise Resources PlanningThe Createch GroupTo increase its customer focus andstrengthen its competitive edge, Standardis putting its new ERP system to workSpecializing in innovative lighting solutions, StandardProducts Inc. launched its new Enterprise ResourcesPlanning (ERP) system in April 2006. The solutionalready connects all key sectors of the company (notably, salesand distribution, finance and manufacturing) but, over thenext two years, it will expand its use of the system to other sectorsto offer customers state-of-the-art online services. This willalso position Standard as a technological leader in its field.Standard markets a wide range of lighting products,including lamps, ballasts and optical components. Foundedin 1961 as a family business, Standard is recognized as aCanadian leader in its sector with a significant market sharein commercial and industrial markets.Modernizing processesIn 2004, Standard began taking steps to replace its outdatedERP system. At that time, management had concluded theold system was hindering the efforts of the company toincrease efficiency. “Our system worked adequately,” saysDavid Nathaniel, president and CEO of Standard, “but ithad become obsolete in terms of the volume of data it couldhandle and available features. Moreover, it was not sufficientlyflexible to provide automated service to customers.”To tackle the problem, Standard selected the AGILYSbusiness solution: a mySAP All-in-One solution developedby The Createch Group. “We opted for AGILYS primarilybecause it offered us superior functionality, and we had confidencein Createch as well as their solution for acceleratingthe implementation process,” explains Nathaniel.Implementation of the new system began in June 2005.Management decided to limit the system’s field of applicationto ensure a smooth transition to the new environment.“The scope, depth and richness of ERP software packagescan promote errors,” says Nathaniel, adding, “It becomeseasy to focus your efforts in non-strategic sectors.” This iswhy Standard chose to initally integrate only its essentialactivities, even though it meant continuing the work graduallythereafter.This decision was all the more justifiable since the projectinvolved three companies (Standard and its two subsidiaries,Stanpro and AimLite) across 11 establishments from coastto coast. The AGILYS preconfiguration greatly facilitatedimplementation on this scale.AGILYS was developed by The Createch Group as partof SAP’s (system applications and products) mySAP Allin-Oneproduct offerings. Thanks to this approach, SAPpartners, such as The Createch Group, can use their expertisein best practices to preconfigure a template of mySAPBusiness Suite for a given industry. This significantly reducesthe amount of customization necessary, resulting in a turnkeysolution that incorporates documentation, tools and methodology.The formula is particularly useful for small and midsizedcompanies that, very often, are missing resources andfinancial backing to see such projects through to completion.“The preconfiguration enabled us to speed up the work,”says Nathaniel. “At the beginning, we did not fully appreciatethe value of the AGILYS concept but, in the finalanalysis, it was extremely useful to us… We succeeded incompleting the initial installation on time, which is quite afeat in itself.” The implementation went very smoothly, eventhough there were some issues to deal with. “But comparedto the negative feedback from other companies that haveimplemented ERP systems, we felt that ours was a huge success,”says Nathaniel proudly. “We were up and running onDay One after ‘go-live’. Createch proved to be proactive andvery skilled in recognizing potential risks [associated withinstallation] and their severity.”Immediate and future benefitsThe installation of the AGILYS business solution was donein Spring 2006, and Standard has already noticed improvementsover their outdated application. However, the best isyet to come. Having deliberately chosen to begin modestly,for security reasons, the company has certain tasks plannedfor the years ahead.Quality service is one of Standard’s key values and thecompany takes great pride in providing same-day shippingout of its four distribution centres. Management plans touse the SAP solution to leverage the Internet to create newopportunities, such as online ordering, stock checks, accountstatus, delivery follow-up and electronic data transfer (EDI)available to customers—24 hours a day, seven days a week.“These changes cannot be made overnight, but once thenew functions are in place, within two years’ time, we willhave powerful tools at our fingertips,” says Nathaniel. AtStandard, the ERP system is designed to support the company’sefforts to adopt a more customer-focused approachin its operations. In the short term, management also hopesthat it will bring Standard to the forefront as one of the mosttechnologically advanced in its industry.More than just excellence in technologyFluke Electronics CanadaFluke Electronics Canada gives test tool users the ability to learn more and do moreETElectrical professionals are being asked to improveproductivity, reduce costs and get everything doneagainst the backdrop of a shallow skilled labour pool,while new technologies, tools and practices drive the needfor improved training and professional development.That’s where Fluke Electronics Canada comes in. Theleader in test and measurement equipment has evolved totake a leadership role in providing education, training andresources for today’s electrical professionals.“We are committed to bringing the latest informationand resources to the industry,” says Tom Nealon, presidentof Fluke Electronics Canada. “We know our customers arebeing asked to do more: that’s why we’re working to helpthem get more from their test tools.”The Fluke Canada website (www.flukecanada.ca) boasts anonline resource library covering every topic from the historyof multimeters to testing telecommunications networks andall points in between. There are Web portals geared towardspecific applications, while virtual product demos, downloadablemanuals, tips and selection guides help visitors learnabout products and how they work. Previews, customer profilesand handy hints can all be found in FlukePlus, the firstmembers-only portal for professional test tool users.Late last year, Fluke also launched an online interactiveforum called Test Tool Talk, where users come togetherto discuss, ask questions, share ideas and offer advice.Moderated by Fluke experts, the forum provides an opportunityfor electrical professionals to interact directly withproduct developers and play a significant role in driving thespecification for new test tools.From an easy-to-understand explanation of safety standardsto safety checklists, videos, application notes andseminars, Fluke’s Electrical Measurement Safety Program isdesigned to help electrical professionals—and their employers—learnmore about safety best practices.In addition to the online resources, Fluke offers “Masterthe Tools of the Trade”: a range of educational seminars heldat various locations across the country on topics such aspower quality, thermography, safety, electrical troubleshootingand even metrology.Fluke also supports the next generation with sponsorshipsof regional, Skills Canada and World Skills competitions,product donations to community colleges and apprenticeshipprograms, as well as an Education Partnership Program thatprovides instructors with curriculum materials like PowerPointpresentations, posters, application notes and videos.But a pro cannot live on information alone. You need theright test tools to get the job done. Fluke’s product offeringhas grown from simple electrical test tools to encompassfamilies of tools for an ever-increasing range of applications,including thermal imaging, power quality and insulation testtechniques for preventative and predictive maintenance.Take its newly launched thermography family, for instance.Introduced last year, this line now incorporates six differentmodels with varying features and price tags. Some modelsinclude the revolutionary Fluke IR-Fusion technology,which allows real time pixel-for-pixel merging of infraredand visible light images together on a single display.Power quality is another key area.While Fluke has offered hand-held single-phaseanalyzers for many years, it introduced a breakthroughhand-held three-phase analyzer—the 430 Series—two yearsago. The power quality family has expanded since then toinclude hand-held three-phase recorders, loggers and evenearth-ground testers.Of course, a company that built its reputation on multimetersand clamps hasn’t been neglectful in those departments.In fact, a new 117 model DMM designed specificallyfor commercial electricians hit the streets last month. Newinsulation resistance testers, clamp meters, infrared thermometersand accessories have joined the team with morefeatures, greater accuracy, improved usability and even morerugged design.“We’re proud of our new products,” says Nealon. “We’realso always looking ahead to the next round of improvements.We know that new challenges come up quickly in theelectrical industry and working directly with the people whouse these test tools every day is the best way to stay aheadof the game.” ET38 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comADVERTISING FEATURE

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYThe standard of lighting excellenceStandard Products Inc.Setting the standard for entrepreneurial excellenceis nothing new to David Nathaniel. Asa youth, he balanced the competing demandsof a heavy schoolwork load with his own successfulwindow washing business. Always steadfast inhis customer-focused approach, his philosophy asthe president and CEO of family-owned StandardProducts is encapsulated in the company’s missionstatement: To exceed customer expectations and bethe market leader by delivering high-quality andinnovative lighting products and services.Now one of Canada’s leading-edge lighting suppliersto the commercial, industrial and residentialmarkets, Standard continues to work hard to offerits distributors and end-users the best in advancedlighting technologies, backed by outstanding customerservice, on-hand inventories using the latestin merchandise logistics technology, and speedyshipping. Currently encompassing four distributioncentres (Vancouver, Edmonton, Toronto andMontreal), complemented by 16 coast-to-coastsales offices, and bolstered by a 150-strong workforce,Nathaniel concedes, “It is a continual challengeto meet or exceed what is expected of us, andat times we may not perform up to expectations.Nevertheless, we are relentless and ever aware ofwhat we must do to be the best in our field.”He goes on to say Standard’s primary functionand focus is to service and strengthen its distributors,which includes creating demand for productsthrough training, specification and end-usercontact. “We have grown significantly over thepast 20 years,” says Nathaniel, “And as we moveforward and play an even more important role inour industry, we are conscious of our responsibilityto enhance our capabilities on all fronts and arecompletely confident in our abilities.”Committed to continuous expansion, the companyhas invested heavily in infrastructure enhancementswith a new $10-million, 115,000-sf headoffice, distribution and manufacturing facility inSt. Laurent, Que., as well as the recent implementationof SAP’s sophisticated enterprise managementsoftware to help nurture that growth.“Achieving our vision for the future requires theright tools and in SAP, Standard selected a powerful,scalable and tailored ERP solution,” statesNathaniel. “This technology will also integrateand streamline the key functions of our company(such as operations, sales and accounting) with ourlong-range plans to build in even more value-addedservices for our customers.” With plans to introduceSAP’s customer relationship management(CRM) software, the company expects to provideonline services, including order placement, stock/price check, account inquiry and delivery tracking,within the next 12 to 18 months.Among the newest additions to Standard’s productmix is the Flexconnect CFL ballast kit thatcomes complete with the mounting conversionplate, pre-stripped colour-coded wires for quickconnection, and an extraction tool to disconnectwires quickly when needed. Flexconnect takes theguesswork out of CFL ballasts by providing wattage,voltage, mounting and inventory flexibilitywith just six models.Offering high power factor, inherent thermalprotection and lamp protection circuit as keyfeatures, the new generation OptiStart electronicballasts (available in .77 and .88 ballast factor)afford significant energy savings and optimal lampperformance for T8 fluorescent lighting systems.OptiStart’s innovative starting technology providesup to 30,000 lamp starts compared to about 20,000on Instant Start (IS), extending lamp life by up to30% over traditional IS systems while simultaneouslylimiting energy consumption. OptiStart isADVERTISING FEATUREpositioned as the perfect lighting solution for new constructionand retrofit applications.Standard’s new energy-saving, high-output 360W and 400WEYE Ignitek are the only metal halide lamps featuring pulse-startperformance on existing MH systems. Due to Ignitek’s superblumen performance (which operates on existing MH systemsand is a direct replacement for regular MH lamps), it improveslight levels and life while reducing energy consumption, allowingfor easy payback. No special ballasts or ignitors are needed.While Ignitek is excellent for specific retrofit solutions,Standard (through its partnership with Venture), offers themost comprehensive range of Uniform Pulse-Start lamp/ballastsystems ranging from 50W to 1000W targeted at new construction,renovations and retrofit projects. Uniform Pulse-Start MHIMPROVE PROFITABILITY AND THE ENVIRONMENT UTILIZINGADVANCED LIGHTING TECHNOLOGIES.STANDARD manufactures a wide range of energy saving, long lifeand superior performance lighting products tailored to commercialproperties, retail design, manufacturing and distribution facilitiesamong others.For more information please visit us at www.standardpro.comor contact us at 1-800-361-6965 or 514-342-1199.systems offer tremendous advantages over conventional MH,including increased lumen output, energy savings, stable colourand longer life.“Our company prides itself on quality in relation not onlyto product, but with respect to our people, our service, ourinnovation, our technical know-how, our marketing capabilitiesand more,” Nathaniel emphasizes. “Standard is a company thatstrives not only to be the best in our industry, but also to improvethe quality of life through better and more efficient lighting. Aslighting professionals, we have a fantastic opportunity to protectour environment through the specification of energy-efficientlighting. And thanks to technological advancements, this pushto efficiency also results in higher-quality lighting that ultimatelyallows people to feel, work and live better.” ETINFO NO. 34www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 39Standard_7x10_EB_Oct2006 1 9/28/06 1:48:49 PM

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYElectrical products for Canada…since 1928Thomas & Betts Canada LtdA century of progressand innovationIn 2006, it is difficult to imagine a worldwithout electricity. From the machinery inindustrial plants to the systems in ourcars, appliances, homes and businesses,electricity is all around us simplifying ourdaily lives and powering our local andglobal economies.Where there’s electricity,there’s Thomas & BettsIn 1898, when the Thomas & Betts Co.was founded, electricity was in its infancybut already sweeping across North Americaand the world, leaving in its wake countlessnew inventions that would change societyin a way that no other technology has doneto date.The evolution of Thomas & Betts as acompany parallels the technologicaladvances made possible by harnessingthe power of electricity. In fact, manyof Thomas & Betts’ early products suchas Sta-Kon ® solderless lugs and theColor-Keyed ® colour-coded system ofconnectors, tools and dies were ‘’industryfirsts’’, developed in direct response to theexpanding needs of the electrical industry.Building on a legacyof technological excellenceIn 2006, Sta-Kon ® and Color-Keyed ®products are still a mainstay of T&B’sproduct offering to the industrial market.Continuous investment in new productdevelopment and maintaining the technicalexcellence of existing products such as theseare central to the way Thomas & Betts runsits business.Strategic investments in research anddevelopment and new manufacturingtechnologies as well as the latest in qualityand safety programs, enable us to continueto develop, refine and enhance the diversityand quality of our products. It also providesus with the flexibility to respond to specialrequests for customized products in atimely and cost-efficient manner.Building partnerships –another “industry first”Thomas & Betts’ history of “industryfirsts” has not been limited to electricalproducts. A pioneer in sales and marketingsupport programs, the pre-cursor toT&B’s renowned Signature Serviceprogram for electrical distributors, theT&B Plan was put in place in the 1920’s.Launched under the Signature Servicebanner in 1993, this partnership programhas since been emulated by manyelectrical manufacturers.Canadian designand manufacturingTo ensure our products continue to meetthe needs of electrical contractors, specifiersand maintenance personnel across Canada,Thomas & Betts brand name products are asked for by name,known for their quality and trusted by electricians, installers,engineers and consumers.IBERVILLE ®The quality is in the nameDesigned, tested and manufactured to satisfy the highest industry standards, Iberville ® steel boxes have beenthe brand of choice of Canadian electricians since 1920.Ty-Rap ® Cable TiesMaking engineering historyIn 1958, Thomas & Betts secured a place in engineering history with the development of the Ty-Rap ® cabletie designed to facilitate assembling wire harnesses in airplanes.Emergency LightingLighting the way to safetyIn 1998, Thomas & Betts added emergency lighting products to its product offering. Manufacturingoperations for North America are based in Dorval, Quebec.StarTeck ® Cable FittingSafe cable terminations for hazardous locationsManufactured in our Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu plant, Thomas & Betts StarTeck ® cable fittings are used tosafely terminate teck cable in industrial facilities across Canada.Marrette ® Wire ConnectorsThe first “twist-on” wire connectorIn 1914, Bill Marr invented the first pressure-type wire connector. Named Marrette ® , the new connector went onto have such an impact on the electrical industry that the tradename “marrette” is now synonymous with“wire connector”.Thomas & Betts conducts regular on-sitevisits to gather input from the people whospecify and install our products.Ideas and input gathered from Canadianengineers and installers have resulted inhigh-performance products that alsosimplify installation and maintenance. TheStarTeck ® line of teck fittings, for example,was developed in direct consultation withengineers working in Canada’s petroleumindustry to respond to uniquely Canadianrequirements for safe cable terminations inhazardous locations.Other products manufactured in Canada,for Canadian and global distribution, includeIberville ® steel outlet boxes, Iberville ®roughing-in products and cable fittingsMicrolectric ® meter sockets and pole linehardware, Marrette ® twist-on wire connectors,T&B Cable Tray Systems, Nutek ® plasticboxes and T&B Conduit Fittings.Service, informationand supportA market-focused sales force – one of thelargest in the Canadian electrical industry -backed up by a knowledgeable inside salesteam, work in each of our six sales regionsto serve the needs of end-users and ourextensive network of stocking electricaldistributors. Additional support is providedby a centrally-located, market-dedicatedcustomer service group.Our on-line service tool, T&B Access,puts the latest in information technology atdistributors’ fingertips, providing themwith instant access to up-to-date productand ordering information, and the ability tocarry out routine transactions 24/7 viawww.tnb-canada.com.Through investment in data synchronizationand other electronic commercetechnologies, Thomas & Betts partners withelectrical distributors to increase transactionefficiency. Our objective is to make everyordering experience with Thomas & Bettsboth pleasant and profitable for bothdistributors and end-users.Delivering the goodsAll Canadian orders are shipped from ourWMS driven, Master Distribution Centrein Bromont, Quebec. Incorporating thelatest in material handling, computer andorder processing technology, the Centre hasthe logistical resources to meet all supplychain requirements as well as providingcustomized value-added services, rapidlyand efficiently on a daily basis.Today, as in 1928, Thomas & Bettsremains committed to providingcustomers with products and servicesthat consistently exceed performanceand safety expectations. Throughcontinuous improvement andinnovation, we’re ready to meetthe challenges of tomorrow and thenext century.40 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comINFO NO. 35ADVERTISING FEATURE

Global leader in spring pressuretermination technologyWAGO Corp.grown in both programmability, and the networks and signaltypes supported.It currently supports over 16 network protocols (includingthe latest trends, such as EtherNet/IP and FireWire) over 200different I/O modules (analogue, digital and special functions),with full PLC programmability and embedded PC technology,highest granularity (eight channels of digital in or out in just 12mm), pluggable connectors and more.Proven technology over timeThe underlying concept of our products, services and technologiesare safety and reliability. With over eight billion CAGEEXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYCLAMP® installations in the field today and a high awarenessfor quality control, you get the safety and reliability customershave come to expect from WAGO. As an ISO 9001:2000-certifiedcompany, we stand ready to support your applications withthe highest quality products at the lowest installed cost.As the inventor of CAGE CLAMP®, WAGO offers morethan 25 years of experience with this technology. This results inthe most extensive line of spring pressure termination technologyproducts, more than 12,000 parts numbers and the rightspring pressure technology for the task at hand. Be sure to visitus online at www.wago.us or call (800) 346-7245 to learn moreabout what WAGO can do for you. ETAs the innovators of the world-renownedCAGE CLAMP® concept, WAGO hasbeen the market leader for more than a halfcentury in the design and manufacture of terminationsystems incorporating screwless, spring pressure,wire termination technology.WAGO offers an unrivalled range of advancedproducts, including PCB-mount terminal blocksand connectors, chassis- and DIN rail-mountterminal blocks, relay and controller interfacemodules, signal conditioners, power supplies, outletboxes, push-wire connectors, and the WAGOI/O System—a complete line of programmablecontrollers (IEC 61131-3 compliant) and fieldbuscouplers for over 16 networks (including Ethernet,DeviceNet and Profibus) with over 100+ modular(one, two, four or eight channel) I/O signal interfacesto meet all your application requirements.CAGE CLAMP®:an industry-changing concept1951 marks the beginning of WAGO’s successstory, as this is when the first terminal block withspring pressure termination technology was born.This innovation led to the first push-wire connectionin 1968, then to the industry-changingtermination technology known as CAGE CLAMP®in 1977.In contrast to traditional screw-type terminationtechnologies, WAGO’s screwless, spring pressuretermination technologies can reduce wiring by upto 75%. More importantly, because the clampingforce automatically adjusts to the wire size, itprovides a highly reliable, maintenance-free contactthat is virtually independent of operator skill.The end result is a secure, vibration-proof, temperaturecycling-resistant and cost-saving connectionevery time.10 years of the WAGO-I/O-SYSTEMIn 1995, WAGO Corp. introduced a revolutionaryconcept in fieldbus I/O technology: the WAGO-I/O-SYSTEM. As the first granular (as little as onechannel per module), micro-modular (12-mm widepackage) and fieldbus independent I/O system inthe market, WAGO set the standard that all othersfollow. And while very little has changed in itsform factor over the last decade, the system hasADVERTISING FEATUREINFO NO. 36www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 41WAGO_EB_Nov2006 1 10/25/06 1:13:58 PM

EXCELLENCE IN TECHNOLOGYDown to the wireTechspan Industries Inc.PowR Lock grounding seal speedsinstallation and provides excellentgrounding and pullout strength.Though it may be one of the newer kids on the block inthe electrical supply sector, Techspan is racing aheadof its competition in bringing wire management solutionsto electrical distributors.Founded in 1989, Mississauga, Ont.-based TechspanIndustries Inc. was born as a joint-venture manufacturer specializingin wire management, connector and control products.Over the ensuing years it has blossomed into a nationalsupplier of wire management products to electrical, industrialand automotive distributors.“Our original concept was to establish JVs with U.S. supplierswho had no presence in the Canadian market,” says FrankDunnigan, Techspan’s president and CEO, whose own backgroundin the electrical industry began in 1981 as vice-presidentof sales and marketing for Westcan Electrical Manufacturing(a family business making electric baseboard heating units).Techspan later added joint-venture partners from around theworld, including Taiwan, Turkey, China and India. “We’re especiallyproud of our average rate of growth: a steady 20% each yearsince we started operations, and we expect a healthy 15% growthin 2007,” he adds.Techspan today boasts eight factories located in Pennsylvania,Illinois, Massachussetts, Ontario and Europe, funnelling over13,000 SKUs (and hundreds of part numbers being addedeach year) to its state-of-the-art 42,000-sf factory/warehousefacility in Mississauga. In addition to a vast array of wireterminals, cable tie products, wire duct and electrical panelparts, the company’s merchandise mix encompasses over 40distinct product families, including Penn-Union compressionconnectors, Remke cord grips connectors, Minerallac stainlesssteel conduit clips, and Quik-Con multi-pole connectors. Toshowcase its one-stop-shopping approach, Techspan’s current340-page catalogue will billow to over 400 pages next year.“Because of the breadth of products we carry on an ongoing basis(including many slow-moving B, C and D items)—coupled with abetter than 96% fill rate all the time—we’re viewed in this industryas a problem solver that is very easy to do business with,” statesDunnigan. “That’s why we’re known as the ‘Big Easy’.”Bolstered by the latest in automated picking and inventoryreplenishment technology, Techspan’s other claim to fameis its speedy shipping track record, whereby 90% of orderscoming in are shipped out to customers the same day. “If ourdistributor customer has margin or delivery problems, ourproduct lines provide the right solutions with the right quality.Even if our distributor needs an oddball item by tomorrow,we can make it happen,” he notes.This service-oriented strategy has garnered a reputationfor consistency that is the envy of the industry. “Mostmanufacturers can’t meet this level of performance,” remarksDunnigan, pointing out that Techspan’s road to stardomstems from its focus on prompt shipping turnaround processes,getting the product to distributors who can then get itinto their customers’ hands quickly.“When the customer needs highly engineered and precisionconnectors, we have them. When lower-priced, less technicalproducts are demanded, we have those as well. We carry theinventory to back up our distributors, and that means significantlyhigher margins with our product line, and the end-useris satisfied with the delivery, quality and price.” Providing acost-effective way to do business for everyone along the supplychain hallmarks Techspan’s commitment to providing crucial,profit-protecting opportunities right down to the wire.Among its latest introductions are Teck Connectors (CSAand UL approved), available up to 2-in. hub size in aluminum,nickel-plated aluminum and stainless steel (by specialorder), featuring a one-piece PowR Lock grounding seal withintegral grounding fingers. This technology provides 360-degree strain relief for superior pull out and conductivity.Although Techspan’s raison d’être is about providing highquality and lower-priced alternatives to the Canadian electricalmarketplace, Dunnigan and his management teamknow that it’s great people—those who share a passion forthe values, culture and vision of the company—that are thecornerstone of success. The company’s sales and marketingare driven by its savvy vice-president of sales and marketing,Brian Power, and product manager, John Mathe. “Both ofthese gentlemen have dozens of years of sales and marketingknow-how, outstanding technical experience and electricalindustry expertise,” Dunnigan nods.The firm’s personnel of 40 highly trained individuals operateunder a 10-point “Techspan Philosophy” through whichemployees are instilled with three virtues: enthusiasm, customercommitment and the desire for personal contact. “All of ouremployees also participate in a monthly bonus program basedupon sales growth, customer service and efficiency,” Dunniganexplains. “This unified incentive program helps solidify the fullcommitment of our people to the core values at Techspan.”A progressive young company that continues to blaze itsown path in the electrical industry, Techspan is dedicatedto superlative service built on the solid foundation of a customer-drivenphilosophy. “We don’t even allow voice mailbecause we want our customers to talk to real people at alltimes,” Dunnigan emphasizes. ETSmall integrated power centres offer large savingsSchneider Electric Square DSquare D integrated power centres: small space, large savings in installation timeAs electrical rooms get smaller, and getting on and offa jobsite quickly is more critical, big box retailers,restaurants, pharmacies, gas bars, office buildings,schools, healthcare facilities, banks and supermarkets willincreasingly rely on Schneider Electric’s Square D integratedpower centers (IPCs).These IPCs combine electrical distribution equipment intoa single factory-assembled and prewired system that reducesspace requirements and onsite installation time. These lineupscan be installed wherever multiple panelboards, transformers,lighting contactors and/or building management controls arelocated in close proximity.Sections are close-coupled to eliminate the need for interconnectingconduits and box connectors, and to shortenfeeder cable runs. Equipment layouts and integrated IPClineups are configured to customer specifications. Optimized,prototypical designs can be supplied for multiple retail locationsto ensure a consistent configuration.Award-winning Transformer Combo Power Centrereduces space requirements by up to 50%.The Transformer Combo bundles panelboards, individuallymounted circuit breakers or lighting contactors witha dry-type transformer into a single factory-assembled andprewired integrated solution. Panels are stacked above atransformer to save floor space. The panels and transformerare factory-assembled and cabled into a single enclosure. Thispower distribution section reduces electrical equipment spacerequirements by up to 50%.Consulting/Specifying Engineer magazine awarded theTransformer Combo with a Gold Medal for the ElectricalDistribution category in its 2006 Product of the Year competition.“This could be a real time, cost and space saver... verycompact and well thought out,” states one of the judges.The Transformer Combo is also the recent recipient of ElectricalContracting Products magazine’s 2006 INNOVATIONAward, which recognizes products or services that have bestresponded to electrical contractors’ market challenges by offeringcreative and innovative ideas. The 2006 entries were judged bya panel of professional electrical contractors in the U.S.A. whoevaluated the 120 product finalists according to six criteria:innovation; ease of use; cost effectiveness; quality contribution;maintainability; and productivity improvements.This seismically qualified Transformer Combo is compatiblewith the Square D Integrated Power Centre describedbelow and with Square D QED switchboards.Integrated Power Centres reduce footprintand total onsite installation costsThe IPC1 consists of NQOD, NF and I-LINE panelboardinteriors in one of the industry’s narrowest depth (10.25-in.)switchboard-style enclosures. System components can includepower meter modules; lighting contactors; TVSS; columnwidth and Powerlink lighting panelboards; third party components(building management and telephone systems andpower conditioners); and power and control cable wiring.Feeder breakers in the power panel can be factory-wiredto the main breaker or main lugs of each lighting panelboardinterior to reduce onsite labour and material cost. Control wiringrequired for metering applications, energy management orground fault systems can be factory-installed and tested.The IPC2 incorporates panelboards with door-in-doorconstruction; free-standing sections that can be close-coupledto Square D QED switchboards (including service entrancesections); front- and rear-aligned enclosures; type 1 (with orwithout driphood) and type 3R enclosures; and equipmentspace for lighting contactors and building managementsystems. The IPC2 offers various options for panelboards,transformers and metering. ET42 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comADVERTISING FEATURE

For more information, enter the appropriate number on the Complimentary Subscription/Info Card found in this issueFor more information, enter the number on the card in this issueLIBRARY37More Options. More Brains.More Brawn. Less Waste.BRADY's new handheld labelling system haseverything it takes to make you anIdentification Expert! The IDXPERT is the firsthandheld cartridge based labelling systemthat can print die-cut labels, self-laminatinglabels and sleeves as well as continuoustapes...You name it IDXPERT prints it!Choose from two keyboard layouts, thenselect from a wide range of label materialsengineered just for your application. Thatincludes wire and cable markers; panel, rackand frame ID; facilities labels; and specialtylabels for labs and work spaces.BradyTel: 1-800-263-6179Fax: 800-387-4935www.bradycanada.com3839Superior Corrosion ProtectionOcal® Electrical Conduit & FittingsCorrosion causes millions of dollarsin damage through lost time, materialsand labour. Stop corrosion fromstriking with Ocal® PVC-coatedconduit and fittings. CompleteOcal® system includes more than2,500 varieties of fittings, supports,patching compounds and renownedRothenberger® installation tools.To request the new Ocal®catalogue, call1-888-879-7222, ext. 2 ore-mail to mrkt_canada@tnb.com.Thomas & Betts Limitedwww.tnb-canada.comGE Consumer & IndustrialLightingConstantColor ®CMH ® LampsGE ConstantColor ® CMH ® Lamps are energy efficientand provide crisp white halogen-like light.• Outstanding light quality• Excellent efficiency• Long life• Advanced arc tube• Unlimited design possibilitiesRuud Lighting's Indirect Linear Lightingsystem is an ideal solution for awide variety of today'soffice/work/study environments.The system is flexible, reliable andeasy to install. It combines a lookthat is both contemporary and elegant,offering great value.The Intelligent Parking Lot Controller isa two-circuit "smart technology" electricaloutlet designed to deliver 65% in power savingsfor parking lot block-heater applications.The programmable on-board computermeasures temperature to regulate powerflow and ensure starts at all temperatures.Fast installation to varied junction boxesmakes retrofit easy and flexible. Durableconstruction and 10 years in the field prove99.8% reliability.40For More Information Please Contact Us At1-877-259-0941 Ext: 2913 Or Cllnfocdn@ge.comOr Visit Our Website at www.gelighting.com.41Ruud Lighting Canada1-800-473-1234www.ruud.ca42Vantera Incorporated1-866-353-2785www.iplc.com43Order all your Maintenance, Supplyand Repair (MRO) products directfrom The Home Depot Supply, anational wholesale distributor. Weoffer more than 10,000 in-stockproducts in 10 categories including:appliance parts, electrical, hardware,housekeeping, janitorial, HVAC, lighting,paint, plumbing and tools. Withlow wholesale prices, fast delivery,personalized service, special ordersand nationwide coverage, we havewhat you need! Call today for a freecatalogue or visit www.hdsupply.caHome Depot Supply1-800-782-0557www.hdsupply.ca44NEW P&S ROTARY DIMMERSPass & Seymour/Legrand’s newRotary Dimmers include a Dial on/off600W Dimmer, activated by rotatingthe knob, and Pre-set 1000W SinglePole and 3-Way Dimmers, each activatedby pushing in the knob. Featuring104V dimming ranges for excellentheat management, there’s node-rating required on 600W versions.Shallower depth leaves more room,easing installation. Available in lightalmond, ivory and white with colorlightedoptions for easy location inthe dark.Pass and Seymour905-738-9195www.passandseymour.com45B-Tech offers one of Canada’s mostcomplete lines of Audio-VideoMounts for Flat Panel LCD and PlasmaTVs, as well as for traditional CRTscreens. The boom in Flat Panel TVs,whose space-saving advantages aremaximized via wall or ceiling mounting,offers an excellent “extra business”opportunity for electrical contractorswho may already be doingwiring or other work at the residential,commercial or industrial site. B-Tech supplies a full range of LowProfile (Flat), Tilt and Articulated FlatPanel TV mounts.Rocelo Inc.24 Vice Roy Rd., Unit 1Concord, Ontario L4K 2L9905-738-073746SitelinkConnect to the future with a revolutionarynew versatile pole system.Extruded aluminum poles that featurefour self-contained dovetailtracks & locking hardware formounting equipment. Integrated onone pole: Luminaires, speakers, signals,signs, communicationsystems, banners & cameras. It isalso designed to incorporate amenitiesincluding everything from trashcans,benches, newspaper standsand more. Sitelinks system gives youthe ability to adjust continuously forpresent and future needs.Holophane Canada Inc.905-707-5830www.holophane.com47Iberville® Roughing-In ProductsAn updated version of the Iberville®Roughing-In Products catalogue is nowavailable. Technical catalogue includesproduct information for the completerange of Iberville roughing-in productsfor the commercial and residential marketincluding connectors, fittings, cableand conduit accessories, and groundingfittings and accessories. Catalogueavailable on T&B web site or in printedformat.Thomas & Betts Limited450-347-5318www.tnb-canada.com48Industrial, Commercial &Datacom EnclosuresHammond Manufacturing offers thousandsof Industrial, Commercial andDatacom enclosure solutions. We cancross our products to other major suppliersand provide service and qualitysecond to none.Email us today to request our full productcatalog or visit our website formore information.Hammond ManufacturingTel: 519-822-2960ebinfo@hammfg.comwww.hammfg.com49EYE HALOGENThe CHOICE in HalogenHow important is QUALITY?When visually inspecting a halogen light bulb,it is difficult to distinguish any difference inquality. Poor quality becomes apparent onlyduring the operation. A low quality halogenlight bulb can damage your fixture and providesubstandard performance.EYE Halogen lamps are Japanesemade lamps with the highestquality standards.For more information or to locate your localdistributor, please contact:STANDARD Products Inc.1-(800) 361-6965 Dial option #1marketing@standardpro.comwww.standardpro.com50Custom Armoring,Jacketing and SpecialConstructions:Northern Cables Inc. provides custominterlocked armor services on othermanufactured cores supplied by thecustomer. The most common materialsfor armor are aluminum or galvanizedsteel. Choice of material thickness andgrade can vary depending on the physicalproperties required by the end user.Other materials are available uponrequest.Northern Cables Inc.888-524-5050info@northerncables.comwww.northerncables.com51Wunpeece Duct SpacerThe Wunpeece Spacer is the ideal ductspacer for all concrete encased ductbank projects. The Wunpeece replacestraditional base and intermediate ductspacers. With its sturdy one piece constructionand snap-in design, fieldassembly is significantly reduced andlabor can be cut by as much as 50% oninstallation. Additionally, with only oneitem to order, inventory hassles areeliminated.Underground Devices Inc.Call (800) 800-2118,or visit www.udevices.comfor more informationwww. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 43

Great Rates!Targeted Audience!Word ofmouth gettingyou nowhere?Newspaperwant ads letyou down?ElectricalB usinessTHE AUTHORITATIVE VOICE OFCANADA’S ELECTRICAL INDUSTRYACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVEAurora, ONContact: Jennifer Sewell905-713-4664jsewell@clbmedia.caWe are looking for a bright,pro-active and energetic individualto join our team. Electrical BusinessMagazine, a publication of CLBMedia, has a current opening for afull-time Account Representative.Please visitwww.canadalawbook.caand apply online.CLB Media is committed to equity in employment.We thank applicants for their interest, however, onlythose selected for an interview will be contacted.Let’s cast a new light onour buildings, homes andworkplaces. Let’s opendoors and open mindsthrough intelligent buildingsand systems. Let’s findnew ways to control,secure and enhance ourdaily life. Let’s preparefor the coming years,and together pushback the limits.Schneider Electric isthe world leader inautomation andelectricity management.Focused on innovation,we constantly outperformour markets. We employ85 000 people in 130 countries.For career opportunities visitwww.schneider-electric.caLet’s dosomethingnewWestburne Ruddy, a division of Rexel Canada Electrical Inc. is currently looking to fill the following positions:Lighting Sales ManagerThe Lighting Sales Manager is accountable for the management of the Division’s sales of Lighting Products. He\she will assist the Division’smanagement team in establishing and achieving budgetary goals for sales and gross margin by providing effective leadership and ensuringthat focused sales and marketing strategies are developed, executed and monitored. This will include continual market research to identifysupplier and product opportunities and trends.Wire & Cable Sales ManagerThe Wire & Cable Sales Manager is responsible for increasing market share through the establishment, implementation and maintenance ofstrategic plans and programs. He\she will be responsible for training and motivating his direct reports and for researching and developingsales activities into new areas to enhance customer awareness and broaden the base of existing customers to increase profitability. The Wire& Cable Sales Manager will coordinate the development of sales objectives and strategies within the Division.Marketing CoordinatorThe Marketing Coordinator will provide marketing initiatives so as to obtain optimal sales volumes and improve the Division’s competitiveposition. Responsibility also includes analyzing profitable suppliers and product lines in the industry and the construction of marketingplans to assist the sales areas in cultivating key business relationships with customers and suppliers. The Marketing Coordinator is alsoresponsible for creating a positive company image and developing advertising and sales campaigns. Also responsible for completing relatedmarketing plan objectives.We thank all applicants for showing an interest in this position. All responses will be held in confidence.Only those selected for an interview will be contacted.For more information on these positions and to apply for any of these opportunities,please visit us at www.westburnedirect.ca/ontarioCommitted to Employment Equity.Postings will expire on December 19, 2006.INFO NO. 52 INFO NO. 53Westburne_EB_Nov06 1 11/27/06 2:07:59 PM44 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comINFO NO. 54HomeDepot1_EB_Oct06 1 11/27/06 2:21:52 PM

For more information, enter the appropriate number on the Complimentary Subscription/Info Card found in this issueMARKETPLACEWANTEDMolded Case Circuit Breakers. New & Used, All Brands. MotorControl & MCC. Buckets in A&B, S.D. & W.H. & C.H.Please call, email or fax Ralph Falvo with your list.RAYLEWPOWER SYSTEMS INC.Always buying and selling used Generator setsand power equipmentFALVO ELECTRICAL SUPPLY LTD.5838-87A St., Edmonton, Alberta1-800-661-8892780-466-8078 Fax 780-468-1181email: rjf@falvo.comINFO NO. 56 INFO NO. 57Contact: Neil O. LewisPh: 1-800-385-4421Edmonton, AlbertaEmail: neil@raylewpower.comwww.raylewpower.comyour source toOver 18,000 coastto coast distribution!MARKETPLACEINFO NO. 55MARKETPLACE• buy or sell• search for an employee• advertise a course• promote a product• advertise a job openingat great rates!YOUR MARKET… COVEREDContact Bill Begin at 905-713-4335INFO NO. 58The Constructor / Res Wire Pro (RWP)– Constructor Ladder Logic, Electrical Circuit & Control– RWP: A New Standard for Residential Wiring– PocketCAD: Take CAD With You– Tutorial Software – Motor Control – CLX Trainer– PLC w/ Logix Trainer and Logix Pro SimulatorfactsElectrical Business is the ONLYCanadian Electrical Publicationthat targets the TOP 1000Canadian Homebuilders as partof its’ regular circulationElectricalB usinessTHE AUTHORITATIVE VOICE OFCANADA’S ELECTRICAL INDUSTRYyour market…delivered!INFO NO. 59 INFO NO. 60INFO NO. 61www. mag.com • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • 45

CODE FILESection 18:Get familiar with some new termsQuestions andanswers compiledby Ted OlechnaTackle theCode Conundrum...if you dareSo, you think you know the electrical code, eh?Well, we’ll soon find out if you’re an electrical codejunkie or downright code-clueless. Take a look at thefollowing questions and check your answers online atwww.ebmag.com, or in January’s Electrical Business.How did you do?3 of 3 – Not only are you smart, you love to show off.1 of 3 – Your understanding of these questions isnot up to code.2 of 3 – You’re pretty smart, but you still missed one.0 of 3 – Did you come up with your answers byplaying Eenie, Meenie, Minie, Moe?Question 1When busway is installed in a falseceiling space where the ambienttemperature is expected to reach40°C, the rating of the busway shallbe reduced to ___ %.a) 82 b) 71 c) 58 d) 50Question 2TECK90 cable that is not markedas approved for use in a hazardouslocation is permitted to be used ina woodworking shop that has beenclassified as Class III, Div 1.a) True b) FalseQuestion 3Cable tray may be supported fromsteel open-web joists by a trapezemade up of threaded rod and a 2x4pressure-treated cross member.a) True b) FalseEB Code Conundrum brought to you by...MY WORK. MY CODE.CEC 2006, Section 18-HazardousLocations provides rules for installingand maintaining wiring andelectrical equipment in hazardous locations,and classifies areas containing flammableor explosive gases, vapours or mists,combustible dusts or ignitable fibres. CEC2006 has also introduced some brand newterms and redefined some of the old ones,so it’s a good idea to review some of thelanguage changes and new requirements.Rule 18-002 Special Terminologydefines some of the special terms appearingthroughout the section that apply toexplosive gas atmospheres. Some of themore interesting changes involve sealingconduits and cables.‘Cable gland’ should be familiar fromCEC 2002: it provides strain relief forcables/cords at the points where they enterelectrical equipment. A cable gland mayalso provide a seal for containing explosivegases by way of an approved sealing compoundwithin the device itself.‘Cable seal’ is a new term. It is defined inRule 18-002 as: “a seal that is installed ata cable termination to prevent the releaseof an explosion from an explosion-proofenclosure and that minimizes the passageof gases or vapours at atmospheric pressure”.Cable seals may be components ofcable glands or in separate sealing fittings.Nothing really new here except the redefinitionof terms.‘Conduit seal’ is also a new term. It is a:“seal that is installed in a conduit to preventthe passage of an explosion from oneportion of the conduit system to anotherand that minimizes the passage of gases orvapours at atmospheric pressure”. Withthe exception of a more precise definitionfor these seals, there’s not much newhere, either.CEC 2002, Rule 18-072 defined ‘explosivefluid seals’ as seals intended to preventexplosive fluids from reaching electricalequipment and wiring. The current CECbroadens the title and scope of this rule toinclude both flammable gases and liquids,and ‘flammable gas or liquid seals’ hasreplaced the term ‘explosive fluid seals’.Now Rule 18-072 requires that:“Electrical equipment containing a sealintended to prevent flammable gases orliquids from reaching the housing or conduitsystem shall not be used at pressuresin excess of the marked maximumworking pressure (MWP)”. Flammablegas or liquid seals are normally componentsof manufactured electrical equipmentinstalled in high-pressure containersor pipelines. Liquid seals are given a pressuretest and assigned a maximum workingpressure (MWP).Strangely, although Rule 18-072 requirementsrefer to both flammable liquidsand gases, the definitions of primary andsecondary seals mention only the containmentof process fluids. Similarly, this section’srules for explosive gas atmospheresonly require secondary seals, and only inthe case of process fluids.‘Primary seal’ is a new term. It is definedunder Rule 18-002 as: “a seal that isolatesprocess fluids from an electrical systemand has one side of the seal in contact withthe process fluid”. A primary seal is usuallya manufactured seal within an electricaldevice, such as a flow switch installed ina high-pressure piping system, to preventprocess liquids from entering electricalconduit or equipment. It is one of thedevices mentioned in Rule 18-072.‘Secondary seal’ is yet another new term,and is defined as: “a seal that is designed toprevent the passage of process fluids at thepressure it will be subjected to upon failureof the primary seal”. In other words,a secondary seal provides back-up in casethe primary fails. The seals are requiredAnswers▼▼▼to Code ConundrumElectrical Business October 2006Q-1: What is the minimum number of spare circuits to be left inthe panel of a single-family dwelling panel when a dryerand stove are installed?a) 2 Rule 8-108(2). Sufficient spaces for overcurrent devicesshall be provided in the panelboard for the two 35A double-poleovercurrent devices and for all other overcurrent devices,and at least two additional spaces shall be left for futureovercurrent devices.Q-2: Interlocks are required for high-voltage fuse compartments.a) True. Rule 36-208 Interlocking of Fuse Compartments.Compartments containing fuses shall have the cover (or door)interlocked with the isolating or disconnecting means...Q-3: What type of non-hazardous motor is allowedin a Class 1 Zone 2 location?a) Squirrel cage. Rule 18-168 Motors and Generators, ClassI, Zone 2. (2) Motors, generators, and other rotating electricalmachines that do not incorporate arcing, sparking, or heatproducingcomponents shall be permitted to be of the open ornon-explosion-proof type.▼▼▼Having the 2006 Canadian Electrical Code is crucial tohelping you do your job well.SAVE 15% when you purchase a 2006 Canadian Electrical Code packageVisit http://cecode.csa.caParticipate in the online survey for your chance to WIN GREAT PRIZES!INFO NO. 62CSA_Banner_EB_Oct06 1 9/29/06 10:44:53 AM46 • NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2006 • www. mag.comBY LES STOCHfor sealing conduits and cables in ClassI explosive gas atmospheres, where thefailure of a primary seal could allow flammableprocess fluids to leak into electricalequipment with disastrous results.Secondary seals are always installedbetween the primary and cable/conduitseals. Rule 18-072 requires that the primaryand secondary seals’ MWP are neverexceeded. The reason? Quite simply, conduitor cable seals are not designed to containpressurized fluids and gases.Always consultthe electrical inspectionauthority in your province/territoryfor more specificinterpretations.Reading someone else's copyof Electrical Business?VisitEBmag.comand click SUBSCRIBE!Chances are you qualifyfor a FREE SUBSCRIPTION.ADVERTISER INDEXAdvertiser • Website . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 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