ElectricalSolutions Feature Articles

Busting myths about power-over-ethernet

Wed, 17 Jun 2009 03:17:05 +0000

As more powered devices are being connected over ethernet, the case for power-over-ethernet gets stronger. However, as US-based power adapter manufacturer Phihong points out, a number of inaccurate assumptions exist in the market that need to be qualified.

Energy-efficient lighting mandated for Queensland dwellings

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 03:01:38 +0000

New regulations in Queensland restrict the installation of light fittings and lamps that are not energy efficient to just 20% of a dwelling's floor space.

Ten tips to reduce carbon emissions using videoconferencing

Fri, 22 May 2009 03:59:12 +0000

Tandberg presents 10 ways to help reduce carbon emissions by deploying videoconferencing.

Primer on RCD basics

Fri, 22 May 2009 04:19:01 +0000

Electrical contractors need to have a better understanding of the operation and deployment of RCDs in view of their increased importance in the new Wiring Rules.

Australian government bill on green jobs and technology

Thu, 21 May 2009 02:47:49 +0000

At the most recent COAG meeting, the federal government's renewable energy target scheme, which could boost Australia's investment in renewable energy by $20 billion, was endorsed by the council.

New solar panel surge expected as rebates close and new round of installations begins

Tue, 19 May 2009 07:39:35 +0000

The government's solar energy rebate scheme has been instrumental in thousands of residential solar energy systems being installed over the past year, but its impending close is expected to accelerate the uptake of these systems in the coming months.

Power usage effectiveness in data centres

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 02:36:14 +0000

In an effort to become more environmentally friendly, IT companies around the world are working to create the most power-efficient data centres possible.

Deploying optical fibre correctly to avoid critical networks failures

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 02:24:31 +0000

Today’s carrier and LAN fibre-optic cables are being asked to deliver more bandwidth than ever before. The delivery of business-critical applications is reliant on the simple fact that the physical layer performance is effective.

New local energy blueprint aims to head off power crisis

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 02:30:04 +0000

A national research initiative to establish an advanced electricity distribution network in Australia has announced a plan to meet the twin challenges of reducing carbon emissions and reining in rising power costs.

Green IT not so green

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 01:21:32 +0000

A recent survey into green practices and attitudes amongst Australian IT managers and CIOs indicates that it isn't being practised in the data industry as much as hoped for.

Cost of installed solar photovoltaic systems drops significantly

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 00:37:46 +0000

According to a US survey, the cost to deploy solar energy systems has reduced significantly over the past decade, paving the way for more market acceptance of this alternative energy source.

Proof of maintenance on transformers for insurers

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 01:28:01 +0000

Conducting a regular transformer testing and maintenance program could assist in reducing costly business insurance premiums.

Electrical contractor charge-out survey

Fri, 20 Feb 2009 00:39:39 +0000

NECA's annual electrical industry survey reveals the current charge-out and pay rates of electrcial contractors and apprentices across Australia, on a state-by-state basis.

Fire safety concerns over data cables from some Chinese manufacturers

Thu, 19 Feb 2009 01:26:50 +0000

Data cable testing in the US has revealed that many cables on sale in the market are not compliant to critical fire safety codes.

Five star 'green' electrical installation

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 23:24:49 +0000

Project: 5 Star ‘green’ Parramatta Justice Precinct
Solution: Star Electrical and Schneider Electric energy-efficient electrical installation

Fighting against counterfeit electrical products

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 02:59:56 +0000

Counterfeit electrical products are proliferating the global electrical market, damaging the reputation and profit of manufacturers, distributors and contractors, while endangering their customers.

Paybacks from energy harvesting

Thu, 22 Jan 2009 01:40:26 +0000

As more and more energy-harvesting products hit the market, a growing range of commercial applications and benefits is becoming apparent. So how will this growing field of technology impact on current electrical solutions?

OHS guidelines for electricians

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:37:45 +0000

WorkSafe Victoria has released a list of the most common injuries and hazards for people working in the electrical trades, along with suggested solutions to minimise these risks.

New regulations on testing and tagging on construction sites

Thu, 18 Dec 2008 01:25:38 +0000

Changes to West Australian regulations regarding the testing and tagging of portable electrical equipment and RCDs on construction sites will come into effect on 1 January 2009, which will allow the testing to be done by a competent person or a licensed electrician.

Testing for standby power consumption

Sun, 23 Nov 2008 22:03:18 +0000

External power supplies are subject to minimum energy performance standards (MEPS) as specified by AS/NZS 4665. The standard calls for maximum permissible standby power consumption levels, and reflect the increasing attention to rising greenhouse gases and energy costs.