SIMATIC HMI Unified Comfort Panels: Next-Generation Touchscreen Solutions

The SIMATIC HMI Unified Comfort Panels are designed to provide a seamless and intuitive user experience. Featuring a modern interface similar to smartphones, these panels offer a robust, hardened glass front that supports glove operation. Their anti-reflective, high-brilliance glass ensures excellent readability, while advanced fault detection technology identifies accidental touches, such as the heel of a hand. With high electromagnetic compatibility (EMC), these panels are built to perform reliably in diverse industrial environments.

Key Features

• Multitouch Screens: Available in sizes ranging from 7″ to 22″ for versatile user interaction.
• Authentication: Use the SIMATIC Unified Air app (iOS and Android) for secure access to SIMATIC HMI Unified Comfort Panels via your mobile device’s fingerprint or face recognition sensor.
• Connectivity: Full connectivity with both Ethernet interfaces—Profinet and Ethernet.
• Preinstalled Applications: Panels come with preinstalled, ready-to-use applications.
• Protection Accessories: Includes adapters and frames designed for migrating from Comfort Panels to Unified Comfort Panels, ensuring a smooth transition and continued protection.

FLO CoRe+ Series: Advanced EV Chargers for Efficient Charging Solutions

The FLO CoRe+ Series offers versatile, reliable fast charging for various settings, including workplaces, multi-residential units, and fleets. Its convenient cable management features include twisted steel cables and a counterweight system to prevent tripping hazards and ensure smooth retraction.

The multi-function CoRe+ pedestals double as junction boxes, reducing the need for additional installations on a single branch circuit. Supported by FLO’s North American manufacturing, you benefit from comprehensive after-sale support, including 24/7 driver assistance and quick access to spare parts. With one of the industry’s most extensive warranties, proactive monitoring, automatic updates, and customizable access controls, the CoRe+ Series ensures optimal performance and reliability.

CoRe+^TM

Electrical load 208 VAC or 240 VAC for each charging station

Charging Power 1.2 – 7.2 kW (maximum configurable by software)

Output Current 6 A to 30 A

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CoRe+ MAX^TM

Input Rating 208 VAC or 240 VAC for each charging station

Max Output Power 1.2 kW to 19.2 kW 0.5 to 125 ADC

Max Output Current 6A to 80A

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Cut Your BC Hydro Bill by Charging Your EV During Off-Peak Hours

Looking to manage your home electricity consumption as an EV owner? Consider BC Hydro’s tiered rate with time-of-day pricing.

By opting in:

• You’ll enjoy a 5-cent discount per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for electricity used between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m.
• A 5-cent surcharge per kWh will apply for usage between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.

This plan is ideal for EV owners who can charge their vehicles at home overnight. With a few adjustments to your routine, switching to this plan can help you save money while also easing demand on the electrical grid during peak hour.

ABB Microlectric Meter Sockets: BC Hydro Approved and Code Compliant

The ABB Microlectric meter bases are proudly designed and manufactured in Canada. These meter bases are built to meet Canadian code requirements and are CSA-certified for overhead, underground, or combined services, accommodating both copper and aluminum conductors.

The ABB Microlectric® all-in-one 400 and Microlectric® CT-L Series meter socket is designed to meet the latest requirements for single-family residential services. These meter sockets are built to meet Canadian code requirements and are CSA-certified for overhead, underground, or combined services, accommodating both copper and aluminum conductors. They comply with BC Hydro’s instrument transformer enclosure standards for services approved after March 1, 2013.

Microlectric® all-in-one 400

• Load Side Terminations: Tunnel type connectors, dual-rated for 1 x 500 kcmil or 2 x 250 kcmil
• Dimensions: 30-5/8 in. H x 20-1/4 in. W x 8-3/8 in. D; made of heavy gauge galvanized steel with an oven-cured grey enamel finish. Weight: 72 lb. (32.7 kg)
• Knockouts: Three bottom knockouts for 1-1/4 in., 1-1/2 in., 2 in., 2-1/2 in., 3 in., 3-1/2 in., and 4 in. conduit
• Enclosure: Weatherproof Type 3R
• Metering: 400/5 A, 5 Jaw; provisions for test switches (test switches supplied by BC Hydro) and current transformer (transformer supplied by BC Hydro)
• Secondary Circuit Wiring: Not included (to be wired by BC Hydro)

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Microlectric® CT-L Series

• Transformer-Rated: 20 A, 600 V maximum
• Conductor Range: 14-10 AWG
• Connectors: Tunnel type connectors for both load and line sides
• Service Type: For underground service only
• Meter Compartment Cover: Overlaps the lower test switch compartment cover, with the meter securely holding the upper cover in place via a catch and an additional piece for extra security
• Protection: A cover conceals the hydro seal from view
• Test Switch Compartment: The lower test switch compartment cover is securely held by the upper cover and can be locked to restrict access

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Cooper WaveLinx: The Future of Connected Lighting Systems

The Cooper WaveLinx connected lighting system is an innovative, scalable, and integrated system that encompasses sensors, keypads, and luminaires, providing flexibility and compatibility for various needs. WaveLinx is energy-efficient and complies with the ASHRAE 90.1 building code, making it ideal for commercial environments such as universities, hospitals, and offices. With WaveLinx, you can manage lighting across multiple floors, buildings, or even entire campuses directly from your mobile device. The system supports both wired and wireless connectivity, offering solutions for indoor, outdoor, commercial, and industrial applications. WaveLinx also integrates with smart building platforms via BACnet/IP and Public API (REST), sharing valuable insights on space and asset usage to optimize building performance and efficiency.

WaveLinx Wireless enables seamless connectivity across various sites, while WaveLinx Wired supports complex features and controls through a two-wire local bus. Both systems are complemented by a comprehensive range of voltage luminaires, sensors, control devices, wall stations, and accessories, ensuring optimal customization. By integrating these components and leveraging advanced data features, WaveLinx not only enhances operational efficiency but also meets comfort requirements and regulatory standards, showcasing how advanced lighting technology is reshaping building management.

The post Inventors Month: EB Horsman Highlights New Electrical Innovations Shaping the Future appeared first on E.B. Horsman & Son.

In the challenging terrain of remote mining sites, where every operation requires precision and safety, innovation is not a mere luxury—it’s an absolute necessity. Beyond state-of-the-art mining equipment, video monitoring technology is crucial in streamlining operations at these isolated sites. Video surveillance has made significant strides in recent years, serving purposes beyond security and surveillance.

Let’s explore some key advantages of using Opticom video monitoring for remote mining sites.

A Clear Vision: Understanding Remote Video Monitoring

Remote video monitoring refers to using cameras and advanced surveillance systems to oversee and record activities at mining sites from a centralized location.

Effective monitoring and analysis of operations are essential. This is where remote monitoring becomes crucial: supervisors need not be physically present on-site. They can monitor operations remotely from anywhere in the world or review recorded footage later to identify areas for improvement and address issues.

Enhancing Safety Protocols on Remote Mining Sites

Safety remains paramount in the mining industry, where hazardous conditions and intricate machinery pose inherent risks to workers. Remarkably, mining has one of the highest accident rates across all sectors. Despite employing only 1% of the workforce, it accounts for 8% of fatal occupational accidents.

Enter remote video monitoring systems—an invaluable safety layer. These systems empower operators to monitor real-time activities and identify potential hazards before they escalate. Whether overseeing high-risk areas or ensuring compliance with safety protocols, video technology enables proactive intervention and timely responses to emergencies, ultimately minimizing the risk of accidents and injuries.

Enhancing Operational Efficiency at Remote Mining Sites

Efficiency serves as the lifeblood of mining operations, where every second counts and precise timing is crucial.

Remote video monitoring systems provide visibility into processes, allowing operators to identify issues, streamline workflows, and optimize resource allocation. By monitoring equipment performance and pinpointing areas for improvement, mining companies can maximize productivity and minimize downtime.

Swift Decision-Making Enabled by Video Monitoring

In hazardous environments like mining sites, split-second life-and-death decisions are a constant reality. Yet, these decisions become even more challenging due to poor visibility and the vast expanse of these sites—no manager or supervisor can monitor an entire mining facility simultaneously.

Enter remote video monitoring. Providing a bird’s-eye view, this technology equips decision-makers with a vantage point. They can spot incidents before they unfold, identify faulty machinery that requires immediate halting (thanks to infrared video monitoring), and even predict potential conveyor belt failures.

By enabling informed decisions in real time, video monitoring has the potential to save lives and reduce downtime.

Ensuring Environmental Compliance through Video Monitoring

As environmental sustainability gains prominence in the mining industry, regulatory bodies tighten guidelines and requirements. Remote video monitoring systems play a crucial role in helping mining companies adhere to environmental regulations. By monitoring activities like waste management, water usage, and reclamation efforts, these systems provide visual evidence of compliance. Ultimately, they allow mining companies to showcase their commitment to responsible mining practices and environmental stewardship.

Selecting the Ideal Cameras for Your Remote Mining Site

The objective of video monitoring at industrial sites is to enhance operations, minimize downtime, and reduce maintenance costs. However, choosing the wrong monitoring system can exacerbate problems rather than solve them.

For high-risk locations like mines, rugged cameras are essential. They are designed to withstand the dust, debris, and vibrations in mining facilities.

Implementing an effective video monitoring system involves more than just selecting rugged cameras. All components and accessories must work seamlessly together to meet your specific needs. Monitors and vibration mounts are equally critical alongside the cameras themselves.

Choosing a video monitoring system for a remote mining site can be daunting. Our knowledgeable consultants understand the intricacies of the mining sector and are eager to guide you on all matters related to video monitoring. Reach out to us, and let’s equip your mining facility with the system it needs!

The post Enhancing Remote Mining Efficiency Through Video Monitoring in Challenging Environments appeared first on E.B. Horsman & Son.

The integration of smart lighting is no longer a futuristic concept. It’s slowly but surely becoming the norm for single-family homes and commercial buildings, and, increasingly, multi-family residences. 

To help bring existing infrastructure up to speed, smart retrofits for multi-family buildings are attracting funding and gaining popularity. Retrofits allow you to future-proof older buildings, while cutting back on energy costs, increasing tenant satisfaction, and improving maintenance operations. 

Are you a property manager, building owner, or strata member considering a smart retrofit for your multi-family or apartment building? Here are some tips on why and how to get started.

Why Conduct a Smart Retrofit for Multi-Family Housing

From energy efficiencies to streamlined operations, smart buildings offer a range of benefits. While smart retrofits, in particular, can be more daunting than new builds, it’s a necessary must-do for buildings to stay-up-to-date with where markets are going.

Along with future-proofing your building, here are other key benefits of smart retrofits for multi-family buildings.

Cost Savings

Smart systems are known for their energy efficiency. This is magnified when you retrofit large buildings with dozens of units. By integrating smart features like daylight harvesting and real-time monitoring, a smart retrofit can help reduce lighting costs by up to 70%, potentially helping you and your tenants save thousands per year. 

Increased Property Value

Studies show that homes equipped with smart features can increase property valuation. 

And with fluctuating global temperatures and increased energy costs, the promise of energy efficient temperature and lighting systems can attract quality tenants and investments—thereby increasing property value opportunities. Buyers can confidently offer long-term rentals with smart systems, making your units much more appealing.

Tenant Satisfaction

Smart system amenities such as temperature control, lighting control, air quality, security, and streamlined communication can all positively influence tenant satisfaction and retention. 

And with a competitive rental market, focusing on improving tenant satisfaction can help your building stand out from the crowd.

Efficient Maintenance 

Being bogged down by inefficient maintenance is a serious concern affecting property managers and building owners alike. But real-time data monitoring and automated alerts with smart systems allow you to tackle issues before they flare up. 

Property managers can quickly detect and report malfunctioning bulbs, connectivity problems, or unusual power consumption patterns. Meanwhile, predictive analytics identify trends and potential failures—helping you schedule maintenance to replace components before they fail. 

How to Conduct a Smart Retrofit for Multi-Family Buildings: Initial Steps

Alongside the many benefits that come with a smart retrofit, there are challenges and considerations you should be aware of. Being aware of these challenges can significantly ease the process of conducting a smart retrofit. Here are some steps you can take to start the process. 

Step 1: Identify Needs with an Energy Audit

Start by identifying the specific needs of your building. 

Whether your goals are to reduce energy consumption, improve security, or enhance tenant convenience, you’ll want to set some targets before getting started. You can conduct an energy audit to identify high-energy-usage areas and determine where to make changes.

Step 2: Clarify Your Budget 

As mentioned, retrofitting your building to reduce energy does require an upfront investment, especially for older buildings. Be sure to budget thoroughly. 

You’ll need to consider the cost of equipment, installation, and ongoing maintenance. Just remember: after the initial outlay, you’ll cut energy and maintenance costs long term.

Step 3: Compare Smart Systems 

Compare the different features and benefits of various products and manufacturers. Look for systems that offer motion sensors, remote control, and programmable schedules that accommodate “daylight harvesting”—automatically adjusting the amount of artificial light in a space based on the ambient daylight available.

How to Choose the Right Smart System

Once you’re ready to conduct your retrofit, make sure to select a smart lighting system that checks off all your boxes. Focus on one that’s compatible with your building’s existing infrastructure, easy to install, and scalable for future upgrades. 

Evaluate Your Infrastructure

Start by assessing your current electrical setup. 

Check the compatibility of existing wiring with smart lighting technology, and identify areas that need upgrades. Take a look at your building’s Internet connectivity, as smart systems typically require robust, stable networks. Also, consider the age and condition of light fixtures, and make any necessary replacements. 

Research Smart System Options 

Look for systems with customizable lighting schedules and remote control features that are easy to install. Also, check to see what kind of support and maintenance services the company offers to ensure your new smart lighting system will perform well over time.

Product Recommendation: Lutron Caseta or Vive

As Western Canada’s leading electrical distributor, Albrite works with thousands of electrical suppliers and brands. One of these brands is Lutron—a fantastic choice for smart systems. 

The company’s top contenders in the smart system category are Vive and Caseta, each offering different features and limitations for your needs. 

View the table below for a brief overview of both options, focusing on the target use case, device limit, scalability, integration, and security features. 

As you can see, Vive is primarily geared toward larger commercial buildings, and it may be the better choice for large multi-family residential projects that are over 75 units. Vive is highly scalable and offers advanced integration features to seamlessly work with your existing infrastructure.

Caseta is typically designed for single-family homes, but can be a more affordable option for smaller apartment buildings or DIY-ers. It might be the more affordable option if you’re planning to retrofit a building with fewer than 75 units. 

Finding the Right System for Your Building

At the end of the day, retrofitting a multi-family building depends on a multitude of factors. And finding the right system can be a challenge. 

It’s highly recommended to consult with a qualified electrical team to help you determine the best smart system for your needs. 

Ultimately, a smart retrofit can be daunting. But converting your building into a smart and connected facility is often well worth the investment, and an experienced team can greatly simplify the process.

FAQs

Are Smart Retrofits Possible for Older Apartment Buildings? 

Yes! While older buildings may not be designed for modern upgrades, today’s technology makes it possible. Contact an experienced electrical team for guidance navigating older buildings. 

Can I Do a Smart Retrofit for Hospitality Buildings?  

Definitely. A smart retrofit for a hotel or resort building can significantly enhance your guests’ experiences, while cutting back on operational costs. 

You can also create personalized lighting environments—with options like these by Lutron—in guest rooms, common areas, and outdoor spaces, with features like motion sensors and automated schedules. 

Are There Any Rebates for Smart Retrofits?

There are various incentives and programs for smart retrofits across Western Canada. Check out the list below to find one in your area. Follow along with each area’s websites to stay up-to-date on changing regulations. 

B.C.

• BC Hydro’s Power Smart Program offers rebates and incentives for various energy-efficient products and services. BC Hydro also funds about 25% of the upfront costs on upgraded lighting through energy-saving incentives. Learn more about BC Hydro’s energy-efficiency programs and incentives.
• CleanBC’s Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program is a partnership between BC Hydro, FortisBC, and the provincial government offers rebates for various energy-efficient home upgrades, including smart lighting and controls.
• FortisBC also offers a variety of new multi-unit residential building rebates.

Alberta

• The Government of Alberta offers the Clean Energy Improvement Program (CEIP), which allows property owners to finance energy efficiency upgrades, including smart lighting, through their property tax bill. This financing option is available for various property types, including multi-family buildings, and offers competitive interest rates and extended repayment terms​. Check with your local government to see if CEIP is available in your community.
• Some municipalities and local utilities in Alberta offer their own rebate programs for energy-efficient lighting upgrades. For example, the City of Edmonton’s Building Energy Retrofit Accelerator program offers rebates on purchases and installations of eligible energy-efficient equipment. These programs vary by region and utility provider, so check with your local government and utility for specific programs and eligibility requirements​.

Saskatchewan

• SaskPower offers power-saving tips and programs to reduce energy usage through efficient lighting, heating, and cooling systems​.
• As new rebates and incentives are occasionally added, it’s a good idea to periodically check for available funding on the SaskEnergy and SaskPower websites.

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The post Smart Retrofits for Multi-Family Buildings: What You Should Know – Albrite Lighting appeared first on E.B. Horsman & Son.

Caseta delivers a seamless blend of safety, convenience, and scalability, all without the need for complex wiring. It’s an ideal solution for residential properties, particularly homes, condos or townhouses, with a size of 2,000 square feet or less.

Take advantage of wireless controls to relocate switches without the hassle of additional wiring or special retrofitting. Caseta offers the flexibility of controlling individual fixtures or personalizing settings to your preference.

Enhance Security with Geofencing and Remote Lighting Control

If connected to the bridge, geofencing allows you to set up a perimeter around your bridge that triggers certain lights when breached, ensuring you never have to enter a dark apartment. If you live in a condo with parkade access, you can even turn on selected house lights via your phone as you reach the elevator, enhancing both convenience and safety.

Above all, Caseta prioritizes safe and secure entry. Consider the case of an elderly person moving into poorly lit retirement housing and struggling to navigate in the dark from the bedroom to the bathroom. With Caseta, such concerns are a thing of the past, thanks to the Pico remote waiting on the bedside table to turn on the appropriate lights for safe travel. Safety and convenience are at the heart of what Caseta offers.

Check out the Caseta Kits, now available to an easy worry free start to lighting controls.

The post Caseta: A Wire-Free Solution for Safety, Convenience, and Scalability appeared first on E.B. Horsman & Son.

USB Outlets

Decora Switches

Outets

Outdoor Covers

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The post Ensuring Safety with GFCI: A Guide for Indoor and Outdoor Use appeared first on E.B. Horsman & Son.

Features

Easy Installation

From field-convertible kits to lay-in construction, wiring and setup is a breeze.

Expanded Options

With modern enhancements to meet evolving project needs effortlessly.

Versatile Mounting

Mount panels with ease thanks to symmetrical tub design and contractor-friendly installation features.

Safety & Security

Prioritize safety with hidden hinges, rounded corners and easily identifiable locked positions.

Ordering Made Simple: Just 4 Steps

Benefits

Quick availability: rapid availability means you’re on and off the job without the delays that come with waiting for factory assembled panelboards.

Product consistency: Get the benefit of component installation on your schedule with the consistency of Siemens factory assembled panelboards (feed-thru versions only). Enjoy the same great features, and guarantee that your job sites have the same look, quality, parts.

Easy assembly: for all of its one-of-a-kind features, Siemens P1 panelboards are also designed to be extremely user-friendly.

• For example, easily switch from main lug to main breaker with no change in tub size or cabling by using field convertible main breaker and main lug kits (through 400A).
• Lay-in construction and/or removable lugs make wiring the main and neutral lugs easier and faster.
• A split neutral design, and branch neutral connections placed near the breaker connections, means cleaner wiring.

Flexibility: enjoy the convenience of quickly building your panel, your way.

Install sub-fed breakers (up to 250A) or feed-thru lug kits in the field, without using any feeder breaker positions, or increasing your tub height.

• Unique design allows the panel to be inverted in the field and keep its labeling legible.
• Pre-punched, symmetrical tubs means quick installs, and quick customizations.
• Interiors are also symmetrical, so you can change from top-feed to bottom-feed just by rotating the interior.

Explore our extensive options both online and at your local branch for ultimate flexibility and easy assembly.

The post Siemens Panelboards, Configured to Your Specification appeared first on E.B. Horsman & Son.

Complete Smart Lighting Control System from Caséta by Lutron

Caséta provides a comprehensive smart lighting control system with a variety of smart dimmers, switches, and plugs designed for both indoor and outdoor use. It integrates seamlessly with a smart hub, enabling enhanced control over lights, thermostats, window shades, Sonos, and more. Whether you prefer a minimalistic setup or a fully integrated smart home, Caséta’s flexibility allows you to customize your smart home experience according to your needs and preferences.

Caséta Smart Home Control Features:

1. Scheduling: Caséta goes beyond basic timers by adjusting automatically with sunset changes throughout the seasons, ensuring your home is lit when needed after dark.
2. Personalized Scenes: Create unique lighting atmospheres for various occasions such as movie nights, dinners, or game sessions by setting different dimmer brightness levels.
3. Smart Away: Enhance home security by remotely controlling lights while you’re away. Use this feature for evening outings or extended trips to mimic occupancy.
4. Multiple Controls: Manage Caséta effortlessly from anywhere using dimmers, Pico® remotes, the mobile app, or voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri.
5. Geofencing: Receive notifications if lights are left on when you leave and have them automatically turn on when you return, all based on your location.
6. Voice-Activated Convenience: Simplify life with hands-free control. Caséta integrates seamlessly with Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit, allowing you to adjust lighting with voice commands like “Alexa, dim the lights.”

Compatible with Caséta – Pico Motion Sensors and Dimmers

Lutron Caséta motion sensors are wireless, battery-powered devices using passive infrared (PIR) technology to control lighting automatically. They detect heat from people moving within an area to determine occupancy and use RF communication to transmit commands to compatible dimmers or switches, turning lights on or off as needed. This enhances convenience and ensures energy savings by only using lights when necessary. Easy to install, these sensors are a valuable addition to any smart home lighting system.

The Pico paddle remote is a versatile and user-friendly device that allows control of Lutron wireless load-control devices from anywhere in the room. This battery-operated remote requires no external power or communication wiring, ensuring easy and flexible use.

60W USB Type A And Type-C In-Wall Charger

The Leviton Fast Charge Type-C Outlets stand out due to their convenience; eliminating the need for multiple cables or charging blocks. These outlets are versatile, seamlessly integrating into various environments like home offices, businesses, and public spaces. They facilitate easy device charging while enhancing the efficiency of any tech setup. Additionally, the Leviton Fast Charge Type-C Outlets deliver increased power to compatible devices, enabling faster charging. In practical terms, using a Type-C fast charge plug can often recharge a phone from 0% to around 50% or more within 30 minutes. While larger battery capacities may take longer, fast charging still significantly reduces charging time compared to regular chargers.

HDMI® and DVI-I Connectors & Insert

In a home office, HDMI and DVI-I connectors streamline multimedia connectivity, supporting high-definition audio and video transmission. Compatible with monitors, projectors, and TVs, they enable seamless integration for presentations, video conferencing, and entertainment. With HDMI Feedthrough QUICKPORT Connectors, installation into various wallplates ensures a tailored setup in white, ivory, light almond, or black, blending functionality with aesthetic appeal. Their durable ABS plastic construction guarantees reliable performance, minimizing interruptions and enhancing productivity during critical tasks.

The eXtreme Cat 6 jack 

The eXtreme Cat 6+ RJ-45 data connector is independently tested and verified to 650 MHz, making it the ultimate solution for gigabit connectivity. With an innovative design, easy installation, and component-rated performance, the Leviton Cat 6+ RJ-45 connector ensures reliability and longevity for your network.

• Durable Construction: The connector body is made from high-impact, fire-retardant plastic rated UL 94V-2.
• Performance Compliance: Meets TIA/EIA channel performance limits, allowing a total length of patching and equipment cords up to 32 feet (10 meters) as per TIA/EIA-568-B.
• Color Options: Available in various colors for easy color-coding and organization.
• QuickPort Compatibility: All connectors feature standard QuickPort compatibility and universal color-coded wiring labels.
• Standards Compliance: eXtreme 6+ system components meet or exceed the requirements for TIA/EIA Category 6, and are cULus Listed, NOM, and ACA compliant.

Leviton Giveaway for Individuals in the Electrical Industry

We’re excited to announce a special giveaway for professionals in the electrical industry! We’re giving away two 150 EXTREME Cat 6 QUICKPORT Jacks, Bulk QUICKPACK (Ivory), complete with JackRapid Tools. Don’t miss your chance to win these top-quality tools! Please enter by August 1st, 2024.

About Leviton

Leviton is the smart choice, delivering the most comprehensive range of solutions to meet the needs of today’s residential, commercial and industrial customers in more than 90 countries around the globe. Through investment in research and development, manufacturing, distribution, human capital and training, Leviton’s century of heritage provides a strong foundation and proves a commitment to continuous improvement, high standards and innovation to the industry. More info: https://leviton.com/

The post EB Horsman’s Guide To Optimizing Data Automation In Your Home Office & Datacom Giveaway! appeared first on E.B. Horsman & Son.

Smart home automation isn’t just a wave of the future. It’s here, and it’s only expected to grow. Some experts are predicting the market will expand to $133 billion US by 2027!

You’ve probably heard of smart lighting, but how familiar are you with the range of other smart home products? Beyond lighting, smart home automation can touch almost every corner of a space. 

Read on for a comprehensive guide to some of the top recommended home automation products—for single-family homes, multi-family units, and even commercial spaces. 

Smart Home Automation Ideas to Consider This Year

Smart Power Outlets

Smart outlets allow users to remotely control power flow, schedule operations, and monitor energy consumption via a smartphone or tablet. 

You can effortlessly turn off unused appliances, schedule plug-in lamps to mimic occupancy patterns for enhanced security, or remotely power down electronics to save energy—all at the touch of a screen. 

For a variety of uses, we love Leviton’s line of smart outlets, like this one; the industry’s first smart GFCI outlet. They allow you to configure notifications via the My Leviton app—for instance, to alert a smartphone if the GFCI trips due to a ground fault—making it ideal for remote monitoring. ‘We also recommend Leviton fast-charge, type-C outlets. These offer 60W and 30W options for fast charging while eliminating the need for a charger block.

Occupancy Sensors

Occupancy sensors cue lights to turn on automatically when someone enters a room or when motion is detected—making them excellent for convenience and security.

Leviton’s wall-mounted smart dimmers, for example, can be used in closets, pantries, bathrooms, and garages, eliminating fumbling for switches in dark areas, reducing the risk of accidents, and improving overall accessibility and security. 

Working with a commercial space? They also come in handy for storage closets, supply rooms, restrooms, hallways, and corridors.

Smart Cameras

From high-definition security cams that keep a vigilant eye on your property to AI-powered cameras that recognize faces, these innovative devices are reshaping the way we keep our homes and businesses safe.

The Dahua N484E62C 4MP Basic Night Color (VU-More Color) security system also provides a complete video security solution with features such as smart IR technology that adjusts the camera’s infrared LED intensity to avoid overexposure, plus smart dual illumination, smart motion detection, and intelligent search.

Preparing for a temporary absence from a vacation property? Here are some more recommended products to ensure safety and security while it’s vacant.

Smart Ceiling Fans

Keeping comfortable is a breeze with automated ceiling fans. The traditional fixtures have evolved into smart fans, such as this Leviton fan with speed control and LED indicator. 

Most come equipped with Wi-Fi connectivity, intuitive controls, and climate sensors to keep occupants comfortable.

Smart Home Lighting

The original smart home product! Putting light controls at your fingertips allows you to customize lighting levels, save energy, and improve security at your home or business through automation. 

You can choose colour-changing LEDs, motion-sensing bulbs, smart dimmers, and even smart shades and blinds—or incorporate other smart lighting hacks.

Lutron’s Maestro dimmers and switches offer the best of all worlds, with full app control and also rocker dimmers for adjusting lights manually.

Not sure which lighting control system you need for your building? Take a look at our “basic, good, better, and best” overview of Lutron smart home dimmer systems.

Other Recommendations for Smart Home Products

We’re just scratching the surface here—new smart home products and systems come onto the market every day. The world of automation is growing, from smart thermostats to smart appliances, AI-powered voice assistants and more. 

Take a look at our recent Leviton spotlight, for instance, to learn more about the full range of smart-home and automation products the company offers, from dimmers to EV chargers. 

Tips for Automating Single-Family Residences

Automating your—or your customer’s—primary home or vacation retreat enhances convenience, security, and energy efficiency in remarkable ways. 

Imagine arriving at a cozy cabin in the mountains after a long drive, greeted by a warm and well-lit interior thanks to remotely activated smart thermostats and lighting systems. You can also install smart locks for hassle-free entry management and peace of mind. We suggest getting started by creating a smart hub to centralize device control.

Tips for Automating Multi-Family and Commercial Spaces

Start by thoroughly assessing the space to identify areas that will benefit most from automation, such as lighting, HVAC systems, and access control. Opt for scalable automation solutions that accommodate the unique needs of your facility—whether it’s an apartment building, office space, or other complex—to allow for easy expansion and customization.

Cloud-based management platforms can help centrally monitor and control all connected devices, while occupancy sensors and smart thermostats optimize energy usage, reduce costs, and enhance comfort. Prioritize security with surveillance cameras, access control systems, alarm sensors, and more. 

Let’s Find the Smart Home Products You Need

Whether you’re retrofitting a residential space or working on a new commercial building, automation can help modernize your space and set it up for future success. Our team of lighting experts can help you find everything you need for your next home automation project.

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Learn More

The post Your Ultimate Guide to the Best Smart Home Automation Products – Albrite Lighting appeared first on E.B. Horsman & Son.