Reuters Alex Vybourg (L) and Will Luzadas of audio visual integration company SpeakerGuy Inc. look at a projector screen they installed in a home in Manhattan Beach, California July 29, 2014. REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson

By Deepa Seetharaman

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Seattle audio and video technician Todd Mueller showed up last year for what might have been a routine job except for one thing: Amazon.com Inc was taking notes. As he mounted a flat-screen TV on the wall, an Amazon employee studied how he covered his shoes and used a blanket to protect the hardwood floor.

After at least two years of study, Amazon is ramping up efforts to offer repair, installation and other services online, tackling a fragmented but potentially rich U.S. market that may be worth an estimated $400 billion (236.89 billion).

Amazon's experiment with services goes back to at least mid-2012 in its hometown of Seattle. It's now expanded the tests to New York and Los Angeles, six service providers who worked and talked with the company told Reuters.

More locations and services are coming soon. As soon as mid-August, Amazon will take as much as a 20-percent cut from services booked through its website, though timing and figures may change, according to providers and several hard-to-find pages on Amazon's website devoted to local services.

Providing services would be a new frontier for Amazon, which hopes to enter one of the few remaining consumer sectors yet to succumb to Internet commerce. Its foray into the area comes as investors worry about Amazon's growing spending on initiatives with uncertain pay back.

It's unclear how Amazon can create an online exchange for services where others like Angie's List have failed to gain traction for years. While services like Yelp and Craigslist show what's available, getting a job done still often involves an old-fashioned telephone call.

The biggest challenge would be attracting enough small businesses to the site, Wunderlich Securities' Blake Harper said. Angie's List's spending on marketing - almost half its total revenue - to attract customers and retain providers has kept it in the red, analysts said.

"While the company has impressive logistical capabilities, it is lacking the local business information, reviews, and sales force, among other attributes, to begin to compete in the market," Harper said in a June 11 note, of Amazon. "We have a healthy respect for Amazon's ruthless competitive nature, but expect the local market to be much more difficult for them to scale than the ecommerce business."

Go here to see the original:
Analysis - Amazon quickens push into tough local services market

July 30, 2014 - Providing both water heating and cooling, Envision2 NXW Chiller is equipped with temperature sensor wells for accurate water temperature sensing; copper-brazed, oversized stainless steel heat exchangers; and bidirectional liquid line filter driers. Unit fits through most doors and includes external forktruck lifting points for installation. Applications includepools, commercial aquariums, radiant floor heating, ice melt, chilled water applications, and industrial process water. WaterFurnace International, Inc. 9000-T Conservation Way Fort Wayne, IN, 46809 USA Press release date: July 24, 2014

Fort Wayne, IN WaterFurnace International, Inc., the leading manufacturer of geothermal and water source heat pumps, has introduced the new Envision2 NXW Chiller, providing water heating and water cooling for a wide range of applications.

Available in 10 to 50-ton capacities, the NXW will fit through most doors and features external fork truck lifting points for easy installation. Designed to perform to the highest standards in the industry, the NXW is used for pools, commercial aquariums, radiant floor heating, ice melt, chilled water applications, industrial process water, or to provide precisely heated or cooled water for fan coils or other applications.

The NXW is equipped with a new and improved control box providing clean wiring and easy accessibility. The control box includes an emergency shutdown button and a user interface to aid in setup and diagnostics. The refrigeration circuit has also been updated with suction and discharge line vibration absorbers and larger, more efficient heat exchangers.

Additional features of the Envision2 NXW Chiller include:

Forklift cutouts in base of frame accessible without removing an access panel Class J fuses for short circuit current rating (SCCR) up to 100 kA Temperature sensor wells for accurate water temperature sensing Copper-brazed, oversized stainless steel heat exchangers for high efficiency and low water side pressure drop Bidirectional liquid line filter driers to maximize system cleanliness Optional temperature set point control software to control leaving load temperature Optional factory-installed pressure gauges.

In addition, the NXW is controlled using FX10 microprocessor controls, enabling an easy connection to a Building Automation System with N2 Open, BACnet, or LonWorks protocols.

To learn more about the Envision2 NXW Chiller, visit the WaterFurnace website at http://www.waterfurnace.com/.

More Information: WaterFurnace International, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of residential, commercial, industrial and institutional geothermal and water source heat pumps. Although it earned a reputation as a leader in geothermal heat pumps, WaterFurnace has worked in recent years to innovate new technologies, integrate key trends and grow the core business to represent a portfolio of clean and sustainable solutions. WaterFurnace (TSX:WFI) was founded in 1983, and the company is headquartered in Fort Wayne, Ind.

For the latest news and updates from WaterFurnace, connect with us on your favorite social media sites follow us on Twitter (@WaterFurnace), like us on Facebook or view the WaterFurnace YouTube Channel. Additional information about the Company and its products is available at http://www.waterfurnace.com.

View original post here:
Commercial Chiller offers capacities from 10-50 tons.

Mon, Jul 28, 2014

The NextGen GA Fund has been established to support the rollout of the US "NextGen" program, which enables updated air traffic information to both pilots and controllers.

There are more than 150,000 general aviation aircraft requiring access to controlled airspace, and NextGen cannot provide its promised benefits to the air traffic system unless these aircraft are participating with updated technology. The NextGen GA Fund is working exclusively on behalf of the GA community to enable these NextGen upgrades using financial incentives, including affordable financing programs and other assistance.

The NextGen GA Fund intends to finance NextGen equipment, related electrical systems, instrument panel modifications, antennas, wiring, and installation/certification costs under a single agreement.

Via the NextGen GA Fund, any aircraft owneran individual or businessis eligible for financing US-registered piston, turbine and experimental aircraft. This includes all types and ages of fixed-wing and rotary aircraft (Part 21.191, Part 23 and Part 27, Part 91 and Part 135)

It is recommended that aircraft owners work with their AEA-member repair stations to prepare fixed price quotations needed for financing application. To find an AEA-member repair station, please go to http://www.aea.net.

The NextGen GA Fund's capital is easy to apply for. Financing terms are attractive and highly competitive compared with conventional financing alternatives. Terms will vary for each applicant and are arrived at using commercially accepted consumer lending standards.

Pre-qualification for financing can occur within one day, and funds may be available usually within two days. All applications are held in strict confidence, and such information is never shared with third parties.

Read the original post:
NextGen GA Fund, LLC, Sponsors OSH14 Special Event Coverage

MONROE (KTVE/KARD) -- The City of Monroe has broken ground on a new generator project at the Monroe Civic Center.

The City of Monroe was awarded a grant by the Governor's Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP) Hazard Mitigation Grant Program (HMGP) as awarded through the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

The state grant is funding the installation of generators, wiring and switches to all the buildings in the complex.

The plans were prepared by Land 3 Architects Inc. (Monroe, LA) and the construction has been awarded to Central Electric (Monroe, LA). The construction contract is in the amount of $1.55 million, and has an estimated construction time of 8 months.

The Civic Center serves as a Red Cross evacuation shelter during natural disasters.

"That is very, very important to us for not only when there's natural disasters, but also 365 days a year because we have so many different events at the civic center and so if there's an issue regarding power outages, we'll have a back-up," said Monroe Mayor Jamie Mayo.

Over the decades, thousands of evacuees have sought shelter at the complex.

The Civic Center has an agreement with Terrebonne Parish to shelter evacuees during a hurricane or other natural disaster.

See the rest here:
Ground Broken on New Monroe Civic Center Generator Project

July 21, 2014 - Simplifying installation and wiring, GEMCO ReadyLink is designed with EtherNet/IP network interface that requires single point network connection for configuration and control. Magnetostrictive technology is used to provide absolute non-contact feedback. Available in 953N Rod Style and 957N Brik Low-Profile Style packages, product supports Line, Star, or Device Level Ring topology, has measuring range of up to 300 in., and incorporates RapidRecall network configuration module. Ametek Automation & Process Technologies 1080 N. Crooks Rd. Clawson, MI, 48017 USA Press release date: July 16, 2014

GEMCO ReadyLink EtherNet/IP LDT Designed for Accuracy, Reliability and Ease of Use for Demanding Industrial Applications

CLAWSON, MI The ReadyLink EtherNet/IP from AMETEK Factory Automation represents a significant advancement in linear displacement transducer (LDT) technology, providing maximum installation flexibility and ease of use. The latest addition to AMETEKs GEMCO line of LDTs for demanding industrial applications is designed with an EtherNet/IP network interface that requires only a single point network connection for configuration and control, simplifying installation and wiring.

ReadyLink uses field-proven magnetostrictive technology to provide absolute non-contact feedback. The versatile LDT supports Line, Star or DLR (Device Level Ring) topology and is available in two package styles. The 953N Rod Style package is suitable for installation into hydraulic cylinders while the 957N Brik Low-Profile Style package incorporates the same electronics but is housed in an aluminum-style extrusion.

The ReadyLink is a smart device featuring a RapidRecall network configuration module and a built-in web page to aid in the configuration of the LDT. A static IP address can be assigned via the web page or by using three rotary DIP switches to set the last octet manually. The RapidRecall module also stores all user configurations. Once configured on the LDT, these settings can be uploaded and stored by the module. If the LDT ever needs replacement, the RapidRecall module can be removed and installed on the replacement unit and all of the user configurations restored.

Designed for demanding industrial applications, GEMCO ReadyLink LDT offers active measuring range of up to 300 inches, and wide power supply voltages ranging from 7 to 30 VDC. All units feature visual and output signal diagnostic feedback and utilize standard off-the-shelf cord sets for maximum value. Five tri-color LED indicators, located on the cover of the RapidRecall module, verify proper operation and distinct diagnostics for quick troubleshooting.

Applications for the ReadyLink include pulp and paper, steel mills, lumber and forest products equipment, primary and secondary metals processing such as stamping, roll forming and die-casting, tire and rubber, plastic injection-molding, and material handling machinery.

EtherNet/IP is an industrial Ethernet implementation of the Common Industrial Protocol (CIP), managed by the Open DeviceNet Vendors Association (ODVA). Introduced in 2001, it is today the most developed, proven and complete industrial Ethernet network solution available for manufacturing automation.

GEMCO LDTs are known for flawless performance in extreme environmental conditions and are the preferred product for fast and accurate continuous linear position feedback. They are able to detect movement down to one micron and report position information back every millisecond.

AMETEK Factory Automation is a leader in continuous linear and rotary position sensing and level gauging. It has provided industrial automation solutions for over 65 years and is a recognized leader in advanced Magnetostrictive positioning technology and continuous rotary and linear motion control devices.

View post:
Linear Displacement Transducer has smart Ethernet technology.

SINGAPORE: The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) on Tuesday (July 15) said it is seeking public feedback on new proposals regarding its Internal Wiring Framework.

Specifically, the changes focus on expanding the regulatory framework beyond telephone lines to the installation of other cables such as coaxial cables, the Nationwide Broadband Network's optical fibre cables and structured cabling, IDA said in a statement.

It is also looking into mandatory licensing for workers installing the wires, as these installers will have to meet certain industry standards. End users can also look for certified workers on IDA's website should the regulation get passed.

"With the proposed changes, end users can contact IDA on any issue regarding the quality of the works done. This allows IDA to investigate complaints on the four types of internal wiring works, and require defaulting contractors to rectify the defects," the statement said.

The public consultation exercise will be held from July 15 to August 15.

See the rest here:
IDA seeks to expand internal wiring regulations, license workers

SINGAPORE - The Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) is conducting a public consultation on proposed changes to the Internal Wiring (IW) Framework, which currently regulates the standards, deployment and installation of telephone lines.

The proposed changes include expanding the framework to the installation of other types of cables, such as coaxial cables, the Nationwide Broadband Network's (NBN) optical fibre cables, and structured cabling. IW workers will also need to be certified before they are allowed to carry out internal wiring works.

With the proposed changes, consumers will be able to go to IDA's website to look for licensed IW workers to install or expand the cabling within their premises. In addition, they may contact IDA on issues regarding the quality of the works done, and IDA will investigate complaints on the four types of internal wiring works, and require defaulting contractors to rectify the defects.

The public consultation exercise starts today and ends on Aug 15.For more information, visit: http://www.ida.gov.sg/policies-and-regulations/consultation-papers-and-decision...

minlee@sph.com.sg

Read more from the original source:
IDA seeks public views on expanding internal wiring regulations, licensing workers

Posted: Monday, July 14, 2014 1:33 pm

July 15, 1999: Lodi high schools get wired

As contractors work to finish installing wiring which will connect computers to every Lodi High school classroom, the state selected the other Lodi Unified School District high schools to receive more than $1.6 million in state technology grants.

Tokay, Bear Creek and Liberty high schools are slated to receive the Digital High School program grants in the 1999-2000 school year, while Plaza Robles Continuation High School will be funded the following year. The program, now in its third fiscal year, has helped Lodi High to fund wire installation for a computer network, new computers, software and equipment and teacher training.

An online service is needed to view this article in its entirety. You need an online service to view this article in its entirety.

Or, use your linked account:

If you do not have a current print subscription to the Lodi News-Sentinel, but want to view more than 20 articles per month, please choose this option.

If you do not have a current subscription to the Lodi News-Sentinel but want to read the e-edition of the newspaper, please choose this option.

If you are a current print subscriber to the Lodi News-Sentinel (and are not subscribed as a business), please choose this option for FREE online access. You will need to know your account number to finalize accessing this service. If you do not know your account number, please contact us at 209-333-1400.

If you are a business with a current print subscription to the Lodi News-Sentinel, please choose this option for FREE online access. You will need to know your account number to finalize accessing this service. If you do not know your account number, please contact us at 209-333-1400.

View post:
July 15, 1999: Lodi high schools get wired

By Olivia Dimmer | Published 14 hours ago | Updated 2 hours ago

TheMSU chapter Sigma Chi fraternity house is currently undergoing a remodel estimated to come with a price tag of more than $1 million, and includes new plumbing, electrical wiring, air conditioning installation and other updates to ensure the house is up to city code in East Lansing.

Sigma Chi Chapter Advisor Rich Nemesi said the remodel will completely strip the interior and exterior of the house and could not have happened without donations from Sigma Chi alumni.

It was decided (to remodel the house) a couple years ago, Nemesi said. We were coming up on the 50th anniversary of the house, it was built in 1963, and we started talking about the fundraising and all that type of stuff, and figured if we remodeled it right, it would be able to go the next 50 years.

Media and information junior and current Sigma Chi Vice President John Bach said he is excited for the recruitment possibilities with the new house, but was overwhelmed by, and proud of, the outpour of alumni support for the remodel.

Most of the funding for the project has come from alumni, and its so great to see alumni still excited about Sigma Chi, he said.

The house has another 12 months of construction scheduled, but members will be able to live in the house this coming fall.

Along with the house remodel, Nemesi said the fraternity has increased efforts to attract more well-rounded members.

The house has improved tremendously, we are top of the pack, top philanthropy, and we feel like the character of the students is worthy of a new house, Nemesi said. When the alumni started talking about this, members ... allowed us to continue (with renovations and fundraising).

Economics senior Blair Montgomery was president of the Sigma Chi MSU chapter during the time fundraising and planning for the remodel took place.

See the original post here:
Sigma Chi MSU chapter house undergoes $1 million plus remodel

CINCINNATI -- The thousands of miles of wiring frantically being strung throughout America's schools this summer may look like everyday Internet cables. They're actually lifelines of high-speed learning.

They are part of a more than $2 billion nationwide investment to close the gap between public school haves and have-nots, both of which are increasingly dependent on high-speed Internet to teach students.

The bandwidth gap has become the new equality measurement plaguing schools, education experts warn.

Stu Johnson, executive director of Connect Ohio, which advocates and monitors Internet accessibility in schools, says school technology will determine school success.

"It's a situation that makes the use of new, digitally enabled learning technologies a huge challenge and consequently the broadband gap is rapidly becoming the education achievement gap," said Johnson.

Adding to the urgency are the Common Core standards being rolled out in many states in the upcoming school year. Those standards come with online testing ?? which caused some problems among states, like Kentucky, that adopted the standards early.

Your school may be overflowing with laptops, tablets, e-books, smartphones and old-fashioned desktop computers. But they are useless if too many students and educators choke the building's online capabilities.

And federal officials and education experts warn that while the bandwidth gap is narrowing, it will still be too wide even after the latest rounds of new school wiring is done.

"Far too many schools have no Wi-Fi at all. For those that are lucky enough to be connected wirelessly, such networks often don't meet the capacity needs of students and teachers," Federal Communications Commissioner Tom Wheeler said in June.

That could release billions more federal dollars to help U.S. schools catch up.

Read more:
Schools rewiring to close digital gap