How to protect your valuable company data on your computers during power interruptions?… Have you considered buying a UPS

Uninterruptable Power Supplies (UPS) Buying Tips
Summers here! … and Summer In Australia means Power Shortages and often leading to Blackouts (no power) or brownouts (low power ie low voltage and current) sometimes these are planned by the Electricity Suppliers to share the extra load during Hot Days… sometimes they occur unplanned because of overloaded or failed equipment either way Your expensive computer or in the case of a business your Server and the data in it could be rendered useless. UPS is the easiest way to protect your hardware and data. For a better and more thorough protection, you need a UPS. It isn’t intended to power you through a blackout though. For that, you would need a generator. Rather, a UPS will let you save your work and power down safely.
A UPS is designed to protect your computer you against such power fluctuations and more importantly, power up your computer even when there is no electricity. Here are a few tips that should help you make a more informed UPS purchasing decision.
Power Outlets
When purchasing a UPS, make sure the power rating is right for your equipment. If you buy one that is rated too low, you might run out of juice before you can power down. Most UPS devices are designed to provide 10 minutes of power. When selecting a UPS, you need to look at the VA rating — or amps multiplied by voltage (240v). The amp rating should be listed on your computer. Add up the VA ratings of everything you will connect to the UPS, then purchase a UPS with a VA rating 20-25% higher. If you are a home PC user, look for a UPS with a 1000-1400 VA rating.
Choose a good length Of Backup time
Don’t expect your UPS to keep your PC running all day. Most UPSes are engineered to provide you a backup time of around 10 to 20 minutes. What they essentially do is save your work when there is a power outage and avoid an abrupt shutdown that could mess up your computer settings. Choose the UPS that meets your backup time demands.
Other features of a UPS
When you are buying a UPS, ask the vendor about more features than just power. This will help you in finding the UPS which has that one additional option that will help you in your buying decision. Of course, the best feature is Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) which isolates your PC from voltage fluctuations that lead to computer disturbances. A UPS with AVR conditions the incoming power before being fed to the PC’s Switch Mode Power Supply (SMPS). Most UPSes also automatically initiate a scheduled shutdown sequence when the power is lost, after saving your work, to prevent damage to the computer hardware.
Warranty
Obtain a guarantee before buying a UPS. Undue delays in replacements can affect business. Some vendors offer onsite warranties, where they replace the batteries at your place. If you are planning to use the UPS at work, go for a longer warranty term.
Battery replacement
The general rule is three years. But if you are experiencing low backup times more frequently, you could get the battery replaced immediately if it’s under warranty. If you are facing no problems, expect your battery to work for three years. Its advisable to buy replacement battery cartridges while you are buying the UPS. These cartridges will breathe new life into UPS systems suffering from expired or weak internal batteries.
Power up
Contrary to the myth, its perfectly fine to leave the main switch on even when you are no longer working and the computer is shut down. However, its best to pair your UPS with a voltage stabilizer for additional safety.
Software reporting
The software provided with the UPS is not always accurate with its reports. So don’t listen to it when it says your battery needs to be replaced even though you’ve never experienced low backup times. These faulty reports shouldn’t worry you because they may be trying to get you to purchase the company’s product more frequently (a common problem with print cartridges.) The software is good at its essential function of shutting down the PC properly and saving your work, but you may be the best option to determine whether its time to change the battery.
Tips and tricks
Do not overload the UPS by, for example, connecting external devices like the printer, scanner and the fax machine. NEVER plug a printer into the battery backup system. To optimize the charge of your batteries, you should discharge them completely at least once a month. And lastly, make sure the UPS is properly grounded all the time to prevent any electrical disasters.
Shop around compare specifications against Price..
Standby UPSs are available in the range of 300VA to 500VA for office use, and up to 2KVA to 3KVA for workstations and large servers. Inexpensive standby UPSs ranging in price from $50 to $125 are used by millions of users of personal computers all over the world. Some of them include brands like Belkin, American Power Conversion (APC), Cyber Power, Data Shield, EFI, NCR, SAFE, Pacific Power, Sola and UP Sonic.
Conclusion
Basically , there are two kinds of UPS systems. The Standby Power System (SPS) and Online UPS System. If you are a home user, go for the relatively cheaper SPS. The price of an online UPS is three to five times that of a standby UPS with the same power rating. For servers, buy an online UPS (online means outgoing power is always drawn from the battery). Expect to pay between $150 and $1,000 for an online UPS. The higher the VA rating, the more you’ll pay. You might also want to consider buying one with advanced-battery features. These features include intelligent-battery management, battery-replacement indicator, and hot-swappable user-replaceable batteries.
Remember
An UPS isn’t intended to power you through a blackout.. For that, you would need a generator. However an UPS is a cost effective way to let you save your work and power down safely.
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Of course the best way is to ensure that your computer and UPS system is safe and working well is to give us a call.

Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide uses the very latest in Portable Appliance Testing…The STC Pro-Logger 2 it can perform static testing class 1,2 & M ,RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection, 3 phase run testing and logs results as you test. all in one neat piece of equipment. On top this all our Technicians are Trained to National Standard UEENEEP008 in test & tag operations, all our Equipment is in good repair and in Calibration. Most of all we pride ourselves on our Knowledge of OH&S legislation and the current Australian Standards ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price.
Call Now Mobile 040 7605568
Visit us at
http://www.testedandtrue.com.au
or our Facebook Page at https://web.facebook.com/testedtrue
Peter Hill Manager , Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide Jan 2018

National Coverage through the Safety Services Network (SA State Member)

|Test and Tag||Lonsdale||Adelaide||South Australia|

Safety Switch, AKA RCD Breaker. Your first line Defence for Electrical Safety

Safety Switch 101
The best single safety investment you can make for your Workplace or dwelling is to buy a Safety Switch. Installing a Safety switch is the most effective method of preventing injury or death caused by electric shock. A safety switch works by detecting tiny differences in current through electrical wiring, and it can detect a potential path to earth. Take the example of a person holding a faulty appliance that has an electric charge thereby providing a path to earth. A truly effective Safety Switch will detect that leaking electrical path and shut all the power down in mere milliseconds, quite often before the sensation of electrocution is felt, thereby preventing a harmful or potentially fatal electric shock. Safety switches are Electro-mechanical devices and over time can be subject to failure. They should be tested regularly to make sure they are in working order.
Safety Switches can be prone to trip under certain conditions… There are a number reasons why a safety switch will trip. The Top 5 reasons are:

An Appliance Fault
When an appliance becomes damaged or develops a fault, it may start to leak excess electrical current. This excess current will be detected by the safety switch and cause it to trip. The easiest way to determine if this is the problem is by unplugging all electrical appliances at the power point, resetting the safety switch and then reconnecting the appliances one by one until the faulty appliance can be identified. Always use caution when dealing with possible faulty appliances and if in doubt contact an electrician.
Intermittent or Nuisance Tripping
As the amount of electrical appliances we have in our home increases, so does the likelihood of Nuisance Tripping. If there are a large number of appliances plugged in to the home at one time and a small amount of current leaks from each, the current adds up to become more substantial. This may mean that the safety switch is continuously on the verge of tripping. If there is the tiniest change in electrical current from the electricity company this can push the switch to its limit causing it to trip. This can become more of a problem in older homes where the electrical wiring is not in good condition. Limiting the amount of appliances plugged in at one time can help minimize this type of tripping.
House Wiring Fault
Faulty wiring poses the most threat to our safety and presents the worst fire risk. Fortunately, a safety switch dramatically reduces these risks. All wiring deteriorates over time and can become dangerous, so older houses are obviously more at risk. A safety switch will detect any fluctuation in electrical current caused by damaged wiring and trip, cutting off electricity immediately and stopping the wiring from burning out. A qualified electrician can assess your electrical wiring and may suggest repair or replacement.
Faulty Safety Switch
Sometimes the cause of a safety switch tripping can be the switch itself. As with any electrical appliance, a safety switch can become defective with age or mistreatment. Safety switches should be checked every six months to ensure they are working effectively. A qualified electrician can offer advice on how to do this, or do it for you if you are unsure.
Electrical Storm
An Electrical Storm can also be the cause of a safety switch going off. When lightning strikes your home, power lines or a power station it may cause a power surge which can cause a safety switch to trip. If this occurs, it is best to wait until the storm passes before resetting the switch. If in doubt always consult an electrician.
Without the right safety equipment and safety precautions, electricity can be deadly. Always check with an electrician if you are unsure why your safety switch has gone off.
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By the Way did you know that you need your RCD tested as often as every six months, it is SafeWork requirement. Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide uses the very latest in Portable Appliance Testing…The STC Pro-Logger 2 it can perform static testing class 1,2 & M ,RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection, 3 phase run testing and logs results as you test. all in one neat piece of equipment. On top this all our Technicians are Trained to National Standard UEENEEP008 in test & tag operations, all our Equipment is in good repair and in Calibration. Most of all we pride ourselves on our Knowledge of OH&S legislation and the current Australian Standards ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price.
Call Now Mobile 040 7605568
Visit us at
http://www.testedandtrue.com.au
or our Facebook Page at https://web.facebook.com/testedtrue
Peter Hill Manager , Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide June 2017

National Coverage through the Safety Services Network (SA State Member)

|Test and Tag||Lonsdale||Adelaide||South Australia|

My Safety Switch has tripped… What should I do NOW !?

A Simple step by step guide to fault finding a tripped Safety Switch.

Note: Some types of appliances may cause incidental or nuisance tripping of your Safety Switch or RCD device. Typically Water Heaters, Electric Jugs and Kettles, Steam Irons, Dishwashers, washing Machines, Swimming Pool Equipment, Auto Defrost Refrigerators and Freezers.
Most Important: If your Safety Switch has turned off, it has done so for a reason. It has detected a leak of some electricity. This may be through a faulty appliance or it may be a fault in the house wiring. These instructions will help you find that leak.

1. First try to turn the Safety Switch on.[Marked Residual Current Device]
2. If it stays on then the fault was intermittent or transient and we can do nothing at this stage. Refer to Note above.
3. Think of what you were using at the time.
If the Residual Current Device trips off again, got to point 5.
4. Turn on the Residual Current Device.
5. If it won’t stay on then you will have to unplug all appliances!
This includes any outside power points or power to outbuildings.
6. At this point the Residual Current Device should stay on. [If not you will need to call an Electrician.]
7. If the Residual Current Device stays on then turn the Circuit Breakers on one at a time.
8. When you come to the leaking circuit, the Residual Current Device will turn off.
9. Unplug all appliances that are plugged in to power points that do not work.
Turn the Residual Current Device on. If it won’t stay on then you will have to call an Electrician.
10. If it stays on, then one of the appliances you have unplugged is faulty. Plug the items in, one at a time until you find the faulty one.

Remember Do not fix any Electrical device yourself, give the device to a suitably qualified electrical repair workshop or if under warranty consult with the manufacturer for the possibility of repair under those warranty conditions.
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Tested & True ~ test & tag  Adelaide uses the very latest in Portable Appliance Testing…The STC Pro-Logger 2 it can perform static testing class 1,2 & M ,RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection, 3 phase run testing and logs results as you test. all in one neat piece of equipment. On top this all our Technicians are Trained to National Standard UEENEEP008 in test & tag operations by Intertag in Sydney NSW, all our Equipment is in good repair and in Calibration. Most of all we pride ourselves on our Knowledge of OH&S legislation and the current Australian Standards ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price.

Call Now Mobile 040 7605568
Visit us at
www.testedandtrue.com.au
or our Facebook Page at https://web.facebook.com/testedtrue

Peter Hill Manager , Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide June 2017

National Coverage through the Safety Services Network (SA State Member)

|Test and Tag||Lonsdale||Adelaide||South Australia|

Understanding the Danger of Electrical shock

The 2  Major hazards attributed to electrical equipment and wiring are electrical shock and fire. Electrical shock occurs when the body becomes part of the electric circuit, either when a part of your body comes in contact with both of the active component (Active/Neutral)wires of an electrical circuit, or one wire of an energized circuit and the Earth wire (or grounded wire)…., or a foreign conductive object that has become energized by contact with an electrical conductor.

The severity and effects of an electrical shock depend on a number of factors, such as the pathway through the body, the amount of current, the length of time of the exposure, and whether the skin is wet or dry (ie sweat). Water is a great conductor of electricity, allowing current to flow more easily in wet conditions and through wet skin.

The effect of the shock may range from a slight tingle to severe burns to cardiac arrest. The chart below shows the general relationship between the degree of injury and amount of current for a 50-cycle hand-to-foot path of one second’s duration of shock. While reading this chart, keep in mind that most electrical circuits can provide, under normal conditions, up to 20,000 milliamperes of current flow. So only a very small percentage of current leaking to earth can cause harm if touched by your body… as little as 30 milliamperes of current can KILL !!!

Current	Reaction
1 Milliampere	Perception level
1-5 Milliamperes	Slight shock felt; not painful but disturbing
6-29 Milliamperes	Painful shock; “let-go” range
30-150 Milliamperes	Extreme pain, respiratory arrest
151-4,300 Milliamperes	Ventricular fibrillation
4,300+ Milliamperes	Cardiac arrest, severe burns & even death

In addition to the electrical shock hazards, sparks from electrical equipment can serve as an ignition source for flammable or explosive vapors.

Even loss of electrical power can result in extremely hazardous situations. Flammable or toxic vapors may be released as a chemical warms when a refrigerator or freezer fails. Fume hoods may cease to operate, allowing vapors to be released into the work area.  So take care with your electrical equipment and consider all contingencies in the operation of that equipment.

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Of course the best way is to ensure that your appliances are not hazardous in the first place by ensuring that not dangerous electrical currents are present on the external parts of the appliance. We at Tested & True ~ test & tag come to your work place at a time convenient to you. We can do an assessment of your Electrical Hazards it can be conducted at the same time as we test and tag your Electrical Equipment. We provide a Full Report with recommendations to clear up current Hazards and how to prevent future risks. Call and ask for a quote. 040 7605568

Tested & True ~ test & tag  Adelaide uses the very latest in Portable Appliance Testing…The STC Pro Logger 2 it can perform RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection and Run Testing all in one neat piece of equipment. On top this all our Technicians are Trained to National Standard UEENEEP008 in test & tag operations by Intertag in Sydney NSW, all our Equipment is in good repair and in Calibration. Most of all we pride ourselves on our Knowledge of OH&S legislation and the current Australian Standards ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price.

Call Now Mobile 040 7605568

Visit us at http://www.testedandtrue.com.au located in Lonsdale, South Australia

Peter Hill Manager Tested & True ~ test & tag Manager SA 0407605568 January 2017

National Coverage through the Safety Services Network (SA State Member)

Peter Hill Manager Tested & True ~ | test & tag | Lonsdale | South Australia |

The Electrical Switchboard your backup defence in electrical safety.

Fuses, Circuit Breakers and Safety Switches

These devices are found in your Switch board understanding these devices and how to use and maintain them will help  your management and understanding of Electrical Safety in the Workplace.

Primary Overload response devices (Fuses & Circuit Breakers)

Fuses and circuit breakers are built to fail in conditions of excess current which can overload the electrical wires in your home. These overloads are often caused by faulty appliances. When an overload occurs, the fuse melts before the wires can overheat, which reduces the risk of fire. Circuit breakers will often trip quicker and more importantly they can be reset to help diagnose and remove faults

1. Always replace a blown fuse with the correct fuse wire. Never use fuse wire that is heavier than the recommended gauge.
2. Never use any other type metal or wire.
3. If fuses keeps blowing, or a circuit breaker keeps tripping, check that your appliances are not faulty.
4. If fuses continue to blow, or circuit breakers continue to trip after appliances are unplugged, there could be a problem with your wiring. Contact a licensed electrician immediately.

Safety switches and RCD devices

Safety switches or RCD device look similar to circuit breakers and will have a test button to provide a test for the correct earth tripping of the device. The purpose is to they provide extra protection from electric shock. Safety switches monitor the flow of electricity and if any irregularity is detected, the electricity supply is immediately cut off.
Homes with children or backyard workshops should consider installing safety switches to reduce the risk of electrical accidents. It is imperative that commercial premises have them installed and tested regularly.. New homes and Commercial premises are required to have safety switches installed. Licensed electrical contractors can install safety switches in older homes at a reasonable cost. You can also purchase portable safety switches for appliances and extension cords. Useful particularly when using power tools outside ie Electric Lawnmowers, Hedge trimmers, Drills, circular Saws etc  and these portable RCD should also be tested on a regular Basis!

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Of course the best way is to ensure that your appliances are not hazardous in the first place. Tested & True ~ test & tag comes to your work place at a time convenient to you. We can do an assessment of your Electrical Hazards it can be conducted at the same time as we test and tag your Electrical Equipment. We provide a Full Report with recommendations to clear up current Hazards and how to prevent future risks. Call and ask for a quote. 040 7605568..At Tested and True …we come to your work place at a time convenient to you. We can do an assessment of your Electrical Hazards it can be conducted at the same time as we test and tag your Electrical Equipment. We provide a Full Report with recommendations to clear up current Hazards and how to prevent future risks.  Call Now Mobile 040 7605568

Visit us at http://www.testedandtrue.com.au located in Lonsdale, South Australia

Peter Hill Manager Tested & True ~ test & tag Manager SA 0407605568 January 2017

National Coverage through the Safety Services Network (SA State Member)

Peter Hill Manager Tested & True ~ | test & tag | Lonsdale | South Australia |

 

Surge Power Board Protection 101

We have such a large number of gadgets today and they nearly all have sensitive electronic components particularly for our entertainment and computing equipment. We are told that we need to protect that equipment for Electrical surges from our mains power supply. The easiest and most convenient way is to buy a Surge Protected Power Board … However, not all surge protectors are alike, and some even put your gadgets at risk. So what is the Difference between a Surge Protected Power Board and a plain power board? Firstly, not every power board is a surge protected power board. It may sound basic, but it’s a fundamental piece of knowledge you’ll need. While a power board just splits your outlet into multiple ports, a surge protector is designed to protect your computer, TV, and other electronics against power surges and any interference or noise on your power line. Power surges may not be an everyday event, but they’re common enough that they can damage your equipment. What to look for: Look for a Label that states its Surge Protected and also look for a led light on the board which indicates that it the Surge Protection is working when the board is plugged in. This will act as a check if there has been major surge event in the Mains power supply.  If the led light goes off the Surge protection may be blown and it will indicate that it is no longer working even though the board is still supplying power to connected devices. Buy one with right number of outlets they come in typically 6,8,12 outlets (this avoids connecting many boards together compromising your protection and potentially overloading power to appliances from the power-point.) DO NOT buy single a single outlet device they are usually cheap and provide poor protection your expensive appliances. Do not connect High current appliances to a Surge Protected power Board they are designed for sensitive Low Power Devices (Tvs, DVD Players, Game Consoles, Hi-fi, Computer Devices etc) for example, do not connect Kitchen appliances, Air Conditioners, Tools and Workshop equipment to a Surge Protected Power Board Always check the design specifications

• Energy absorption/dissipation – This rating, given in joules, tells you how much energy the surge protector can absorb before it fails. A higher number indicates greater protection. Look for a protector that is at least rated at 200joules. For better protection, look for a rating of 600 joules or more.
• Clamping voltage. The clamping voltage is the voltage that will trigger the surge protector—or essentially when the surge protector wakes up and starts absorbing energy. Look for something around 400 V or less. Lower is better here. Finally, see if response time is listed in the product details—it’s good to know, and lower is better
•  Response time – Surge protectors don’t kick in immediately; there is a very slight delay as they respond to the power surge. A longer response time tells you that your computer (or other equipment) will be exposed to the surge for a greater amount of time. Look for a surge protector that responds in less than 20 nanoseconds.
• As mentioned before, It is best to look for a Surge protected board with an indicator light that tells you if the protection components are functioning

Importantly: Make sure you’re informed before you buy, and read the back of the box or the product details before you buy anything. You don’t want to invest in a surge protector only to find out that it’s far too weak to protect your devices, or it’s a surge protector in name only. Remember,  the most expensive is not always the best. The best thing to do is figure out what you need to protect and buy accordingly.

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WE can give you advice on choosing an UPS or Surge Power board to suit your Requirements…. and At Tested and True …we come to your work place at a time convenient to you. We can do an assessment of your Electrical Hazards it can be conducted at the same time as we test and tag your Electrical Equipment. We provide a Full Report with recommendations to clear up current Hazards and how to prevent future risks. Call and ask for a quote. 040 7605568 Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide uses the very latest in Portable Appliance Testing…The STC ProLogger 2 it can perform RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection and Run Testing all in one neat piece of equipment. On top this all our Technicians are Trained to National Standard UEENEEP026 in test & tag operations , all our Equipment is in good repair and in Calibration. Most of all we pride ourselves on our Knowledge of OH&S legislation and the current Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760:2010 ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price. Call Now Mobile 040 7605568

Visit us at http://www.testedandtrue.com.au located in Lonsdale, South Australia

Peter Hill Manager Tested & True ~ test & tag Manager SA 0407605568 September 2016

National Coverage through the Safety Services Network (SA State Member)

Peter Hill Manager Tested & True ~ | test & tag | Lonsdale | South Australia |

 

 

So what is tested and what are we looking for when doing a Test and Tag regime?

Many of our clients organise regular test and tagging services simply because it is easier and safer.

A regular program of testing and tagging comprises of: (standard 10/15Amp 3 wire cabled appliance and plugged multi phase equipment)

A visual check to ensure the integrity of the Electrical cord and Appliance construction

• The Technician looks for Cuts and breaks in appliance and power cables may present as an  electrical hazard.
• An inspection of the integrity of the appliance housing looking for cracks and holes which may expose personnel to an electrical hazard.

A series of electrical tests are then conducted to detect the unobservable faults not found by the visual inspection process, and forms an integral part of the inspection/testing process.

The equipment is turned off to allow the technician access to the appliance plug. All tests are performed by disconnecting the appliance from the building power and connecting the plug to an insulation tester or a Portable Appliance Test-set built for the purpose of performing the tests automatically and uniformly. These Tests are:

1. Earthing continuity test: (specifically for metal shrouded appliances) to ensure there is adequate connection between the earth pin on the plug of the appliance and the metal cover shrouding the appliance.
2. Insulation resistance test: to ensure that no path exists with the appliance/lead for electrical current to transit from the active wires to earth.
3. Continuity Loop test: to make the sure that the active circuit which powers the appliance has a good solid connection and in no way presents as an electrical hazard.
4. Polarity Test: (only for items which distribute power: leads, power-boards, adapters etc) to ensure that the wires of an extension cord/power board appear the same order of connection at the plug as the do at the socket end.

Other Equipment Tests Include:

 RCD test to test the tripping time of a RCD to ensure your safety switch or RCD does work properly and switches off in a fault situation quick enough to save personnel from Harm.

3Phase Test: usually high powered workshop and building site equipment with multiple active wire connections (tests performed on 3phase test are similar to that of standard appliance tests outlined above)

Emergency Exit sign test: Tests the ability for an emergency exit sign to stay on when power is off 90 minutes is the expected time, if it fails to reach the expected time then the circuitry/ battery will be in need repair or replacement .

That is it, in a very basic overview if you need to know more please either contact us or contact Safe-Work SA (South Australia) http://www.safework.sa.gov.au/  1300 365 255 or The Workplace Safety Authority in your local area.

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At Tested and True …we come to your work place at a time convenient to you. We can do an assessment of your Electrical Hazards it can be conducted at the same time as we test and tag your Electrical Equipment. We provide a Full Report with recommendations to clear up current Hazards and how to prevent future risks. Call and ask for a quote. 040 7605568 Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide uses the very latest in Portable Appliance Testing…The STC ProLogger 2 it can perform RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection and Run Testing all in one neat piece of equipment. On top this all our Technicians are Trained to National Standard UEENEEPOO8 in test & tag operations by Intertag in Sydney NSW, all our Equipment is in good repair and in Calibration. Most of all we pride ourselves on our Knowledge of OH&S legislation and the current Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760:2010 ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price. Call Now Mobile 040 7605568

Visit us at http://www.testedandtrue.com.au  also National Coverage through the Safety Services Network (SA State Member)

Peter Hill Manager Tested & True ~ | test & tag | Lonsdale | South Australia |

 

Buyers Guide To Surge Power Boards

How do surge protected power boards work ?
At first glance a surge protected power board operates like any other Power Board. It shows its ability at that moment when too much voltage gets passed along the transmission line , the surge protected board lets only a ‘safe’ amount through to the connected equipment. The rest it channels into the electrical outlet’s ‘earth’ and safely dissipated into the ground.
When a surge occurs at a certain level above normal voltage, a component built into the surge protected power board becomes conductive and starts to carry the excess electric current back down through the ground wire, so the damaging high voltage doesn’t reach connected equipment. Once the surge ends, that protective component resumes its ‘dormant’ stage of being non-conductive. It’s a bit like an electrical version of a pressure valve.
Australian domestic wiring is designed for a standard voltage of 230–240 volts. If the voltage goes too far above that, it can damage electronic equipment, which usually has many sensitive components. If excess voltage lasts for a very brief time (1–2 nanoseconds) it’s called a spike. If it lasts longer it’s called a surge. Even though a spike or surge can be so brief their duration is measured in nanoseconds, they can still cause damage to sensitive components. It is vitally important to protect sensitive business equipment, Computers, printers, photocopiers etc these items of equipment are sensitive to Surges in voltage.

So what sort of a Surge Protected Board should you Buy ? Here are the specifications you should consider…Energy absorption/dissipation – This rating, given in joules, tells you how much energy the surge protector can absorb before it fails. A higher number indicates greater protection. Look for a protector that is at least rated at 200 to 400 joules. For better protection, look for a rating of 600 joules or more.
Response time – Surge protectors don’t kick in immediately; there is a very slight delay as they respond to the power surge. A longer response time tells you that your computer (or other equipment) will be exposed to the surge for a greater amount of time. Look for a surge protector that responds in less than Ten nanoseconds.
It is best to look for a Surge protected board with an indicator light that tells you if the protection components are functioning. Eventually the protection component will burn out after continual power surges, but the board will still function as a power connection. Without an indicator light, you have no way of knowing if your protector is still functioning properly.
Other important features may include ?
Building wiring status indicator: Detects potentially dangerous wiring problems in the wall outlet.
Circuit breaker: Protects the surge board from overload by connected devices drawing too much current.
EMI noise filtration: This reduces or eliminates line noise (electrical interference).
Other connections: Surge protected sockets for coaxial cable, modem or Ethernet network, all of which can also conduct high voltage that can damage connected devices.
Outlet spacing: Allows more room for one or more devices that use a transformer block.
Sockets: Check the number of mains power sockets available, usually from four to eight.

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At Tested and True …we come to your work place at a time convenient to you. We can do an assessment of your Electrical Hazards it can be conducted at the same time as we test and tag your Electrical Equipment. We provide a Full Report with recommedations to clear up current Hazards and how to prevent future risks. Call and ask for a quote. 040 7605568 Tested & True ~ test & tag Adelaide uses the very latest in Portable Appliance Testing…The STC ProLogger 2 it can perform RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection and Run Testing all in one neat piece of equipment. On top this all our Technicians are Trained to National Standard UEENEEP008 in test & tag operations by Intertag in Sydney NSW, all our Equipment is in good repair and in Calibration. Most of all we pride ourselves on our Knowledge of OH&S legislation and the current Australian Standard AS/NZS 3760:2010 ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price. Call Now Mobile 040 7605568

Visit us at http://www.testedandtrue.com.au located in Lonsdale, South Australia

Peter Hill Manager Tested & True ~ test & tag Manager SA 0407605568 May 2016

Fixed RCD testing… Why is it important?

At every workplace there is at least one Electrical switch board that is built to divide the power and lighting into manageable circuits feeding, lights, equipment and power points for us to use. Though we may not have an understanding electricity, it is important that you know about the little understood device called the RCD (residual current Device) or sometimes referred to as the Safety Switch that will find amongst the breakers and or fuses in this panel.

An RCD is an electromechanical device,that detects any shunting of electrical power to earth thereby shutting the circuit down in mere milli-seconds, in doing so avoiding electrocution to personnel and possible fire hazards.

Being and Electromechanical device ,it can like any other similar device be prone to failure. As part of a regular testing check, it needs to have a push button test which basically is a test every 6 months to check out the mechanical workings of the RCD of which any body can do. If there are breakers on your Panel that are RCD’s.. the give away is a breaker with a button for testing also on the breaker are the words 30ma RCD… these are the devices that need to be tested monthly by push button. Picture below

But this is a bit like push button testing a battery smoke alarm it only test the resultant action it doesn’t test the actual detection part of the device.

So periodically you need to have your fixed Main switchboard panel RCD’s tested with a calibrated RCD tester, and if it responds with a shutdown time lag of less than 299 mill-seconds… typical times for most RCD’s are usually are 5-50 milliseconds… here is a table below which will help

TYPE OF ENVIRONMENT IN WHICH EQUIPMENT IS USED
	Residual Current Devices (RCDs)
	PUSH BUTTON TEST BY USER	TEST FOR OPERATING TIME RCD TESTER
FACTORIES, WORKSHOPS, PLACES OF REPAIR, MANUFACTURING, ASSEMBLY, MAINTENANCE OR FABRICATION.	6 MONTHS	12 MONTHS
LABORATORIES, TEA ROOMS, OFFICE KITCHENS	6 MONTHS	2 YEARS
OFFICE EQUIPMENT WHERE EQUIPMENT OR SUPPLY FLEXIBLE CORD IS SUBJECT TO FLEXING ON NORMAL USE OR IS OPEN TO ABUSE OR IS IN A HOSTILE ENVIRONMENT	6 MONTHS	2 YEARS
OFFICE EQUIPMENT WHERE EQUIPMENT IS NOT SUBJECT TO CONSTANT FLEXING OF THE SUPPLY CORD	6 MONTHS	2 YEARS
NEW EQUIPMENT AND REPAIRED/SERVICED EQUIPMENT	PRIOR TO INITIAL INTRODUCTION TO USE, AND AFTER SERVICING	PRIOR TO INITIAL INTRODUCTION TO USE, AND AFTER SERVICING

Tested & True ~ test & tag  Lonsdale We know how to test all types of test sensitive electrical equipment like that of a RCDs and Surge Protected devices…We specifically use the STC ProLogger 2 it can perform RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection and Run Testing all in one neat piece of equipment. On top this all our Technicians are Trained to National Standard UEENEEP008 in test & tag operations by Intertag in Sydney NSW, all our Equipment is in good repair and up to date. Most of all we pride ourselves on our Knowledge of OH&S legislation and the current Australian Standards ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price.

Article By Peter Hill… Tested & True ~ test & tag, Lonsdale, South Australia, Contact 0407605568 May 2016 www.testedandtrue.com.au

Fire Hazards heaters, clothes dryers & electric blankets

Each winter heaters, electric blankets and tumble dryers cause a large number of house fires in Australia. Have you checked and kept up your maintenance by simply following these valuable tips

Removing hazards and safe use of heaters

• Never leave heaters unattended. If a fire starts it could spread through your home before you are able to respond.
• Keep flammable materials at least a metre away from the heater. The majority of house fires are caused by people hanging clothes or towels to dry on or in front of the heater. Clothes, upholstery, curtains and other material that could catch fire should be kept more than a meter from any heater at all times.
• Make sure portable heaters are secured upright and not left in locations where people or pets could knock them over.
• Avoid using portable heaters on table tops unless they are secure and designed for that purpose. There is a risk of heat damage to the table top and if it falls off it could damage the heater and start a fire.

Electric heater safety tips

• Don’t plug electric heaters into powerboards, double adaptors or extension cords with other appliances. Heaters consume large amounts of power and may overload the supply and cause a fire.
• Before using an electric heater check the condition of the appliance and power cords for obvious damage. If there is damage contact an electrician or the service technician to fix it.

Gas heater safety and correct use

• Never use gas heaters designed or marked for outdoor use inside. They are a fire risk and can also release toxic gases which can accumulate inside and potentially harm you. Using LPG cylinders indoors to provide fuel for unflued heaters or other gas appliances is dangerous and is not recommended.
• Unflued heaters must not be used in bedrooms, bathrooms or small rooms that have no permanent ventilation. Toxic gases can build up inside and potentially harm you.
• Never use your gas oven or stove as a room heater.
• Always check your gas heater is working correctly. Signs of problems with gas heaters may include difficulty when lighting, yellow flames, unusual smells or noisy or inoperable fans.
• Regularly service your gas heater according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Always use a licensed gas fitter for this task.

Clothes dryer safety

• Ensure that the lint filter is cleaned regularly. Lint that has built up can catch fire.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions and only place suitable materials into the clothes dryer.

Electric blanket safety

Do you really need them they can be dangerous and not certainly not recommended for use with children (eg Bedwetting) If you really need to use one then every year take it out and give it a thorough check.

• Electric blankets should be rolled when stored away. Folding an electric blanket can damage element wires within the blanket
• When using a blanket for the first time after storage, lay it flat on the bed and check for hot spots as it heats up. Only add sheets once you are sure the blanket will operate safely at a maximum temperature.
• Electric blankets that are not properly maintained can cause fires.
• Avoid using double adaptors or power boards wherever possible.
• Older electric blankets might be damaged and may not have the safety features of modern blankets, so consider replacing them.

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Tested & True ~ test & tag  Lonsdale We know how to all types of test sensitive electrical equipment like that of a Heaters and Tumble Dryers…We specifically use the STC ProLogger 2 it can perform RCD testing, Earth Leakage Detection and Run Testing all in one neat piece of equipment. On top this all our Technicians are Trained to National Standard UEENEEP008 in test & tag operations by Intertag in Sydney NSW, all our Equipment is in good repair and up to date. Most of all we pride ourselves on our Knowledge of OH&S legislation and the current Australian Standards ensuring that you get Quality Service at a competitive price.

Article By Peter Hill… Tested & True ~ test & tag, Lonsdale, South Australia, Contact 0407605568 February 2016 www.testedandtrue.com.au