A look at the latest display solutions to help your in-store purchases.

Unicrimp has reinforced its commitment to supporting electrical wholesalers with the introduction of a comprehensive suite of point-of-sale (POS) solutions, designed to maximise product visibility, streamline merchandising and ultimately drive sales.

Q-Crimp countertop fixings POS

Created to support the newly launched Q-Crimp Fixing Additions range, this countertop display showcases the Plus Series high-performance woodscrews alongside Bullfix fixings. The updated packaging is fully recyclable and features a universal branding approach, reinforcing sustainability while maintaining strong shelf presence. Additionally, the fixings are supplied in contractor-friendly trays, improving usability on-site and enhancing convenience for installers.

Trade Tub floor stand display

The Trade Tub POS stand is a flexible, dual-section unit designed to optimise in-store merchandising. The lower section is configured to hold trade tubs, ensuring easy access to high-demand products, while the upper section offers wholesalers the freedom to customise displays according to their specific requirements. This adaptability enables distributers to tailor their offering to suit customer demand and available retail space. 

Slat wall display

A key component of the POS offering is the Slat Wall Display system, which will allow wholesalers to present Unicrimp’s diverse product ranges in a structured and visually engaging manner. These boards are highly versatile and can be configured to suit a variety of retail environments. Wholesalers can select from brand-specific boards, each carefully curated to highlight the distinct features and benefits of individual product lines, ensuring a clear and intuitive customer experience.

Catalogue dispenser

To ensure wholesalers have access to up-to-date product information, Unicrimp also provides a dedicated catalogue dispenser. This solution is designed to neatly house current catalogues and supporting literature, enabling customers to easily access detailed product specifications and guidance at the point of purchase.

Marketing support

In addition to physical POS solutions, Unicrimp provides extensive marketing support through the marketing hub on its website. This resource offers wholesalers access to a wide range of tools, including online ordering, product literature, imagery, and video content, enabling a fully integrated approach to product promotion.

Electrical wholesalers looking to enhance their in-store offering and benefit from Unicrimp’s POS displays and wall boards are encouraged to contact their local Unicrimp sales representative for further information, or click here

Find more ‘Point of Sale’ features here

The post Point of Sale: a suite bit of business – Unicrimp’s latest POS solutions appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Brady’s new BradyPrinter i4311 is designed to bridge the gap between stationary benchtop label printer power and mobile flexibility. A well-known limitation for most mobile label printers is the maximum width of the label. Brady’s i4311 marks the new maximum label width at 101.60mm for connected label printing systems that retain true portability.

The larger print width brings a lot more applications into the mobile label printing range, including perforated work-in-progress tags, common size rating plates and larger cable tags, wraps, sleeves, asset labels, component labels and GHS-compliant chemical labels.

The printer is powered by a battery that can handle 5,000 large labels on a single charge. Swapping batteries has been made easy and they can be charged in 3.5 hours.

The new BradyPrinter i4311 can print labels from phones, tablets and laptops, and even from central company systems using Brady’s software development kit or ZPL support. In addition to Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, the i4311 also features ethernet and USB-C connections. The printer’s on-board 7’’ (17.78 cm) touch screen offers both on-device support as well as the capability to print labels directly from the printer.

Just like other Brady printers the i4311 includes LabelSense technology to automatically set label material burn, size and pre-print settings as soon as a label roll is loaded.

Get more details here

Find more industry products and equipment here

The post BradyPrinter i4311: Industrial label printer with portability appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Instrotech is celebrating this great summer of sport with an exciting new competition. The ‘Perfect Match Challenge’ will run throughout June and July with the winners receiving their prizes early in August.

Entering the competition is easy, go to the Perfect Match Challenge webpage. Click on one of eight cards to reveal the image, then simply find the matching pair before you forget – match all four pairs to complete the game. Then fill in your details to be entered into the prize draw. The first prize is a Martindale HPAT550 PAT Tester plus special football and other goodies. The runner-up prize is a Martindale IR88 Infrared Thermometer (ideal for barbeques!) plus special football goodies.

“After the huge success of all our previous competitions throughout our anniversary year and beyond, we are running a great, new easy-to-enter competition to celebrate this summer of sport. A fantastic opportunity to win great test equipment prizes, so why not celebrate with us and try to score a goal,” said Guy Brown, Sales Manager at Instrotech.

To enter the competition, simply successfully complete the online ‘Perfect Match Challenge’ competition at https://instrotech.com/perfect-match, enter your details, and you will be entered into the prize draw.

Terms and conditions apply. For more information visit www.instrotech.com. This competition ends on the 31^st of July with the draw taking place the first week in August.

Find more industry news here

The post Instrotech launches ‘Perfect Match Challenge’ test equipment competition appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Martin Plumbridge, Technical Manager at Doepke, discusses RCD protection and looks at whether an RCCB Type B trips on DC.

We have witnessed an increase in reports from several well-informed installers relating to Type B’s that do not function correctly in the presence of DC components. For example, one design was marked as bidirectional but failed smooth DC tripping test. Although the basic requirements of BS 7671 do not require verification that the Type B RCD protection feature works, it would seem prudent to spend a few minutes checking that modern complex domestic systems costing possibly £10,000 or more are protected by a functioning RCD. A simple test with the correct instrument can be performed to verify that the RCD trips when subject to smooth DC.

RCD tests and thresholds

The existing BS7671 1 x RCD verification test required for example for 30mA RCDs relates to an AC sinusoidal residual current, irrespective of the type of RCD.

• All RCCBs subjected to 50Hz residual current are designed to trip between >50% – <100% I∆n, which equates to 15 to 30mA. The max switch off time at 1 x is 0.3s.
• Type A, type F, and type B pulsed residual current (50Hz); the tripping current threshold changes to >35% – < 140% I∆n.

Type A (BS EN 61008-1) must still trip with the pulsed waveform superimposed on 6mA smooth DC.

Type F (BS EN 61008-1 and BS EN 62423) must still trip with the pulsed waveform superimposed on 10mA smooth DC.

Type B (BS EN 61008-1 and BS EN 62423) subjected to smooth DC residual current must trip between >50% – <200% I∆n i.e. for 30mA equates to 15 < 60mA DC on both cycles 0° and 180°.

The standards define the tripping thresholds and times based on the residual current components. Although BS 7671 only requires verification of the AC trip threshold irrespective of the type, Michael Peace’s IET Article in Issue 91 July 2022 explains that other tests are not precluded.

Why DC tripping characteristics matter

RCD Types A and F use a magnetic core to detect imbalance between live and neutral conductors. Smooth DC residual current above the design current can saturate this core, a phenomenon known as DC blinding.

When the core is saturated, The RCD becomes insensitive to further imbalance. Trip thresholds increase unpredictably; the device may fail to trip entirely. This is a major safety concern because a circuit could carry a dangerous fault current without any protective disconnection.

Type B RCDs are designed to detect smooth DC and trip when it exceeds the default value. This maintains sensitivity to both AC and pulsating DC components while also responding to pure DC leakage.

Test instruments

For test instruments equipped with a Type B RCD setting, a multiplier of 2 × I∆n is applied in accordance with the product standard BS EN 62423. We have witnessed an increase in complaints relating to a number of type B’s that do not function correctly in the presence of DC components. Particularly those that are marked as bidirectional. A simple test can be performed to verify DC tripping on DC currents.

Testing procedure for Type B RCDs

The testing procedure for a type B RCD is relatively straight forward from connecting the live, neutral and earth to probes the appropriate terminals on the load side and carrying out the tests. Once complete, carry out the same test on the supply side to check the device is true bidirectional.

• Carry out standard AC test first (following all testing safety procedures).
• DC Tripping test applicable to any 2-pole 30mA type B (Outgoing circuit should be disconnected).

To measure RCD tripping current on a Fluke 1654B

1. Turn the rotary switch to I∆n position.
2. press F1 to select the test current phase, 0° or 180°.
3. press F3 to select the RCD test-current waveform: smooth – DC current to test type B RCD.
4. press F4 to select the RCD current rating (10,30,100,300 or 500mA).
5. press and release ‘test. Wait for the test to complete.

Conclusion

So, does a Type B RCCB trip on DC? Well, the answer is that it should do but some don’t. If it is detecting DC it should trip between >50% – <200% I∆n, which equates to 15 to 60mA range on both cycles 0° and 180° for 30 mA device. If it is truly bi-directional it will trip on DC irrespective of which side, you connect the supply.

The testing procedure for a type B RCD including DC test takes a few minutes in addition to the standard AC test. If it is complex installation requiring Bi-directional RCD functionality you can verify the operation by repeating the test on the reverse side.

Spend a few additional minutes checking that your modern complex domestic system and the people using it are adequately protected by the RCD you have specified and installed.

For further details, click here

Find more industry features here

The post RCD protection: does a Type B RCCB trip on DC? appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

It’s been a busy few months in the electrical industry, with new appointments and shake-ups across different sectors. Keep up to date with the latest movements here, as we details who has gone where…

Demos Hoursoglou

CMP PRODUCTS

CMP Products has appointed a new Chief Operating Officer to drive productivity and sustainable growth across the division. Demos Hoursoglou brings extensive senior leadership experience across a range of engineering and manufacturing environments, with a strong track record of delivering operational transformation programmes.

Drawing on this experience, he will focus on aligning operational strategy with CMP’s long‑term business objectives to drive sustainable improvements in global performance. His priorities will include enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening safety standards and investing in people development across the organisation.

James Huntingdon & Simon Blazey

TRIDONIC UK

Tridonic UK has announced strategic leadership changes designed to enhance its digital service footprint and expand its reach into the data-driven solutions market. James Huntington has been promoted to Projects, Solutions and Services Sales Manager, whilst Simon Blazey transitions into the role of Major Projects & Digital Services Manager.

By aligning these leadership roles with the company’s digital services roadmap, Tridonic UK aims to deepen its penetration into the data-driven solutions market, providing end users with unparalleled asset management and energy-efficient insights.

Carey Guerin-Oliver

AEMT

The Association of Electrical and Mechanical Trades (AEMT) has appointed Carey Guerin-Oliver to support members in implementing and progressing through its Codes of Practice, reinforcing the Association’s commitment to raising standards across the repair of rotating electrical equipment.

Carey joins at a pivotal stage in the rollout of the Codes, which are designed to establish a consistent, structured framework for electromechanical repair facilities. Her role is centred on helping members understand what is required, begin their compliance journey, and progress towards independent verification.

Catch up on previous months ‘Movers and shakers’ articles here

The post Movers and Shakers | June 2026 appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Ruth MacEachern, Product Manager at EnviroVent discusses PIV and MVHR and choosing the right ventilation strategy for healthier indoor environments

As awareness of indoor air quality continues to grow in line with new regulations like Awaab’s Law, ventilation is no longer viewed as a “nice to have” but a fundamental part of delivering healthy, compliant living spaces. Homes today are more airtight than ever, which brings energy efficiency benefits but also increases the risk of trapped pollutants, excess moisture, condensation, and indoor air quality issues if ventilation isn’t properly addressed.

Two of the most commonly specified whole‑house ventilation approaches in UK homes are Positive Input Ventilation (PIV) and Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery (MVHR). While both are designed to improve indoor air quality, they work in very different ways and suit different property types and scenarios.

Understanding how each system functions and where it performs best is key to ensuring the right solution is specified for each home.

How PIV works

Positive Input Ventilation is a whole‑house system that works by gently supplying filtered air into the property, typically from the loft space. This continuous input of air creates a slight positive pressure inside the home, which helps to push stale, moisture‑laden air out through natural leakage points such as trickle vents, air bricks and gaps around doors and windows.

Rather than extracting air mechanically from individual rooms, PIV focuses on dilution and displacement. Pollutants such as excess humidity, odours, airborne allergens and everyday household contaminants are gradually forced out and replaced with filtered air.

Because the air is introduced at a low flow rate and filtered before entering the living space, modern PIV systems operate quietly and unobtrusively, providing background ventilation without relying on occupant interaction.

The indoor air quality and health benefits

PIV can play a particularly valuable role in reducing condensation, damp and mould, which remain some of the most common indoor air complaints in UK housing. Excess moisture generated from everyday activities such as cooking, showering and drying clothes can quickly build up in poorly ventilated homes, creating ideal conditions for mould growth and dust mite proliferation.

By constantly introducing drier external air, PIV helps to stabilise humidity levels across the entire dwelling, reducing surface condensation and limiting the conditions mould needs to thrive. This, in turn, supports better respiratory health, especially for occupants affected by asthma, allergies or other breathing conditions.

Unlike intermittent extract fans, which depend on manual operation or occupancy sensors, PIV systems run continuously, maintaining consistent air movement and improving overall air freshness throughout the home.

When PIV is the best option

PIV is particularly well suited to existing homes and retrofit scenarios, where installing a ducted ventilation system may be disruptive or impractical.

It is commonly specified in:

• Older properties with limited or inconsistent background ventilation
• Homes experiencing condensation or mould but without major structural defects
• Social housing and private rental properties where minimal disruption is important
• Occupied homes where residents need an immediate, low‑maintenance solution

Because installation requirements are relatively straightforward, PIV offers a cost‑effective and scalable way to address indoor air quality issues across large housing portfolios. Its simplicity, reliability and ease of upkeep make it a popular choice where a quick improvement in living conditions is required.

However, it’s important to recognise that PIV relies on the building’s natural leakage paths to expel air. As housing stock becomes increasingly airtight, this is where alternative strategies may be more effective.

Introducing MVHR

Mechanical Ventilation with Heat Recovery operates on a fundamentally different principle. Rather than supplying air into the property and allowing it to escape naturally, MVHR systems extract stale air from wet rooms such as kitchens and bathrooms, while simultaneously supplying fresh air to living and sleeping spaces via a fully ducted system.

What sets MVHR apart is its ability to recover heat from outgoing air. As warm, stale air is extracted, the heat is retained within the heat cell to pre‑warm the incoming fresh air, improving thermal efficiency while maintaining a continuous supply of air. This controlled, balanced airflow allows MVHR systems to manage indoor air quality with a high degree of precision.

Why MVHR delivers long‑term indoor air quality control

MVHR is particularly effective in airtight, modern properties, where uncontrolled air leakage is minimal and ventilation must be carefully managed.

Because air supply and extract rates are balanced, MVHR prevents pressure imbalances within the home, reducing draughts and helping maintain stable internal conditions. The continuous removal of humidity and pollutants directly from source rooms makes MVHR highly effective at reducing condensation and helping to protect the building fabric.

From an indoor air quality perspective, MVHR systems also offer excellent filtration, helping to reduce the ingress of outdoor pollutants and allergens, which are a growing consideration in urban environments.

When MVHR is the right choice

Under Approved Document F of Building Regulations, MVHR is suitable for a dwelling with any air permeability level, however MVHR is often suited to:

• New‑build homes designed to high airtightness standards
• Properties undergoing deep retrofit or whole‑house renovation
• Homes where energy efficiency and occupant comfort are key priorities

While installation is more complex than PIV, the long‑term benefits in terms of comfort, air quality control and energy performance make MVHR a strong choice where design conditions allow.

Choosing the right system

No single ventilation system is right for every property. The most effective solution depends on a range of factors, including:

• The age and airtightness of the building
• Existing ventilation pathways
• Occupant behaviour and lifestyle
• Budget, disruption tolerance and long‑term performance goals

In many existing homes, PIV provides a practical and accessible route to improving indoor air quality and reducing moisture‑related problems. In contrast, MVHR offers maximum control and efficiency for homes designed to support a fully ducted ventilation strategy.

What matters most is that ventilation is considered early, specified correctly, and matched to the realities of the building and its occupants. With indoor air quality now firmly on the agenda, choosing the right approach has never been more important.

Additional information is available here

Find more industry features here

The post PIV vs MVHR: choosing the right ventilation strategy for healthier homes appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Martindale Electric has launched the HPAT425 handheld PAT/EET tester, which can be used for testing all types of portable appliances and is specifically built for ease of use with one-button automatic testing.

The new HPAT425 is designed for clear, simple and automatic pass/fail testing of Class 1 & Class 2 appliances and IEC power leads. The unit is compact and lightweight for maximum portability and features a USB-C charging port for fast on-the-go charging.

The large, high-contrast greyscale display is ideal for testing in varying light conditions. Plus, the HPAT425 features both 500V and 250V insulation test options – ideal for surge-protected devices – as well as an IT-safe 200mA earth bond test.

Replacing the popular Martindale HPAT400 model, the improved HPAT425 offers everything needed to begin testing straight out of the box. This includes a TL67 earth bond probe, EX322 IEC adaptor lead, TC57 carry case, and a USB-C charging cable, alongside a verification certificate and instruction manual.

A comprehensive range of optional accessories is also available, including adaptors for testing appliances and equipment fitted with 3-phase plugs.

Find out more here

Find more industry products and equipment here

The post Martindale Electric HPAT425 handheld PAT/EET tester appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Setting goals in the electrical industry is essential for maintaining standards, meeting deadlines, and ensuring safe and efficient delivery of work. Whether working on installations, maintenance, or large-scale projects, clear goals help provide structure and direction.

However, the demands of the industry, tight deadlines, long hours, and high responsibility, can sometimes lead to pressure and imbalance.

Maintaining balance is key. Goals should support both performance and wellbeing, not come at the expense of safety or personal health. In a sector where attention to detail and decision-making are critical, fatigue, stress, and poor mental wellbeing can increase the risk of mistakes. Looking after yourself is not separate from doing a good job – it is a fundamental part of it.

Personal wellbeing in the electrical industry is often challenged by factors such as early starts, physical demands, travel, and high expectations. Over time, this can affect energy levels, focus, and mental health if not managed well. Recognising this early and building healthy habits can make a significant difference.

Understanding how to set realistic and sustainable goals is particularly important in this environment. Effective goals in the electrical industry are often:

• Clear, specific, and aligned with project requirements
• Realistic within time, staffing, and resource constraints
• Flexible to adapt to unexpected changes on site
• Focused on safety and wellbeing, not just productivity

Rather than focusing only on completing tasks quickly, it is important to prioritise doing the job safely and correctly. Consistent, steady progress, supported by good wellbeing, leads to better long-term results.

A useful way to check in with your own balance and wellbeing is to reflect on how your work is affecting you:

• Do I feel focused and in control, or constantly rushed?
• Am I getting enough rest and managing fatigue?
• How is my mood and stress level outside of work?
• Am I looking after my physical health as well as my workload?
• What is one small thing I can do today to support my wellbeing?

If you notice signs such as ongoing fatigue, irritability, lack of focus, or low mood, it may be time to take action. This could include taking proper breaks, speaking to a supervisor, adjusting your workload, or reaching out for support.

Looking after personal wellbeing can include simple but effective actions:

• Taking regular breaks to rest and reset
• Staying hydrated and eating regularly
• Getting enough sleep, especially during busy periods
• Making time outside of work to switch off and recharge
• Talking openly about stress rather than carrying it alone

It is also important to support others in maintaining both balance and wellbeing. In the electrical industry, strong teamwork and communication are essential, and people may not always speak up when they are struggling.

You can support others by:

• Checking in regularly with colleagues
• Encouraging open conversations about wellbeing and workload
• Being aware of signs of fatigue or stress in others
• Promoting a culture where asking for help is accepted
• Leading by example in working safely and taking care of yourself

Creating a supportive environment benefits not only individuals but the safety and performance of the whole team.

Ultimately, goal-setting in the electrical industry should not just be about getting the job done, but about doing it safely, sustainably, and in a way that protects your wellbeing. When personal health is prioritised alongside performance, it leads to better outcomes for individuals, teams, and the work itself.

For more information, click here

Find more industry features here

The post Goal-setting and maintaining balance in the electrical industry appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Jake Green, Head of Technical Engagement with Scolmore Group, which incorporates the Unicrimp division of cable accessories, explores how correct cable support prevents strain and damage – and why wholesalers are central to ensuring contractors have the right products to meet BS7671 requirements.

For wholesalers, cable support is more than a simple add‑on sale. With BS7671 placing clear obligations on installers to protect cables from mechanical strain and damage, contractors rely heavily on their wholesaler to supply compliant, high‑quality fixings and accessories.

Why cable support matters

Regulation 522.8.1 of BS7671 requires wiring systems to be selected and installed so that cables and their terminations are not damaged during installation, use or maintenance. In practice, this means contractors need access to a wide range of support solutions – and they often turn to wholesalers for guidance on what’s appropriate for each job.

Regulations 522.8.5, 522.8.11 and 522.8.12 go further, stating that:

• Cables must not be subjected to mechanical strain
• Supports must not have sharp edges
• Fixings must not damage the cable

This places real emphasis on choosing the right product for the right application – something wholesalers are ideally positioned to support.

Types of support wholesalers should stock

Contractors expect wholesalers to carry a broad and reliable range of cable support options, including:

• Cable ties
• Cable cleats
• Cable clips
• Cable tie accessories
• Cable glands

Products such as Unicrimp metal cable cleats and Unicrimp brass meter tail glands are examples of items that help installers meet compliance requirements while ensuring long‑term system integrity.

The choice of fixing depends on:

• The installation surface (e.g., clips for timber, ties for basket tray)
• The cable type (e.g., cleats for SWA cables)

Wholesalers who understand these distinctions can better support their customers and strengthen their technical credibility.

Guidance contractors rely on

The IET On‑Site Guide (OSG) remains a key reference for installers. Appendix D provides recommended spacing for cable supports, with Table D1 detailing distances for accessible cable runs.

For example:

• A cable with a diameter up to 9 mm requires closer clip spacing
• Larger cables can be supported at greater intervals

Wholesalers who understand these guidelines can help contractors select the correct quantity and type of fixings – improving customer service and reducing returns.

Bending radii are also critical. Regulation 522.8.3 requires cables to be bent without placing strain on internal conductors. The OSG’s Table D5 gives examples, such as the minimum bending radius for 1.5mm² twin and earth.

Cable entry: a common point of failure

Wholesalers frequently supply the accessories that prevent damage at cable entry points.

Two issues must be addressed:

1. Sharp edges on metal boxes – requiring grommets or bushings
2. Strain on terminations – requiring proper support and compression glands

Stocking the right glands, grommets and strain‑relief products ensures installers can meet Regulations 522.8.5 and 522.8.12.

What this means for wholesalers

Electrical wholesalers are a vital link in ensuring safe, compliant installations. By offering a comprehensive range of cable supports – and understanding the regulatory drivers behind them – wholesalers can:

• Help contractors meet BS7671 requirements
• Reduce installation faults and call‑backs
• Strengthen customer trust
• Increase sales of complementary products

Unicrimp’s extensive range of clips, cleats, ties and glands gives wholesalers the opportunity to supply everything a contractor needs to install cables safely and compliantly.

Further details can be found here

Find more industry features here

The post Cable support and BS7671: why wholesalers are key to compliance appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.

Ansell Lighting has taken its support partnership with Warrington & Vale Royal College to the next level, by challenging students with real-life projects, designed to enhance learning, develop practical skills and support future careers.

The tasks set by Ansell’s Lighting Design Manager, Ken Chua, required the students to create lighting schemes for different environments using Relux – an application used by manufacturers to establish the number and placement of light fittings in a space.

Students currently undertaking the Level 1 City and Guild certification in Electrical Installation, worked collaboratively to design a lighting scheme for a sports hall. The assessment considered the placement of light fittings, and emergency fitments, as well as their ability to factor in sustainability – such as the replacement of old halogens with energy efficient LEDs.

Level 3 students working towards the Advanced Technical Diploma in Electrical Installation were tasked with creating a lighting scheme for a large open office space, which featured additional rooms such as a reception, canteen and toilets. Their work will be assessed based on their research of appropriate lighting levels and will contribute to their final qualification.

Mark Abbott, Managing Director at Ansell Lighting, said: “We have worked with the College extensively in recent years providing support and resources for electrical apprentices and full time students, as well as team members undertaking regular talks and presentations on the latest lighting technology and products, but this is the first time we have worked with them on a lighting project.

“We’re proud to be able to support local future talent and are looking forward to seeing what solutions the students come up with. Hopefully this experience will give them the skills they need to progress their studies and careers.”

Find more industry news here

The post Ansell challenges college students appeared first on Professional Electricians Wholesaler.