Leandro Souza, Category Manager for wiring accessories at Schneider Electric, talks about connectivity and the company’s new Desk Unit range.
An overview of the current wiring accessories landscape would suggest there is a clear trend impacting commercial and residential environments – a never-increasing demand for more power and data connectivity. Furthermore, a combination of legislative changes which have increased safety, such as BS6396, and evolving user practices are all having an impact on market conditions.
In today’s digital age where technology has become ubiquitous, users expect a constant source of connectivity. Smartphones have overtaken laptops as the most popular device for getting online, Ofcom research has revealed, with record ownership and use transforming the way we communicate. Two thirds of people now own a smartphone, using it for nearly two hours every day to browse the internet, access social media, bank and shop online. The proliferation of 4G networks has significantly impacted battery life, the bane of the smartphone user. In response, users are turning to technologies which will keep them connected for longer.
Catering to the connected consumer
To cater to the connected consumer, Schneider Electric has launched its innovative Desk Unit range. The advanced suite of products for power and data supply at workstations combines modular design flexibility, quality and ease of installation. The comprehensive range has been engineered for commercial and residential applications.
Take for example the In-Desk Unit, which brings flexibility to the desktop for environments such as conference and training rooms. Its minimal depth ensures no restriction on leg movement under the desk or table, even where the units are fitted near the edge. The unit provides access to power, media and data, while brush inserts prevent the cables from becoming lodged. Effortlessly blending design with functionality, the product range can be fully customised and tailored to meet customer demands and easily retrofitted in order to account for their changing needs. The Desk Unit range also includes a number of Select Custom Modules, for easy product customisation; and an extensive range of GST Power Leads and Connectors with integrated earth connection, available in different lengths.
Ease of installation
When considering installation, the first step for installers is to account for the type and size of the job in hand. This will be dependent on the location of the installation and the product. Once this has been determined other aspects of the installation such as speed, cost and safety need to be considered. The Desk Unit is particularly suited to today’s business environment, where time is money, as it is quick and easy to install and customise. The ease of installation significantly reduces the time of install by up to 50%.
Stay ahead of customer demands
With an innovative modular approach to product design and installation, Schneider Electric’s Desk Unit range ensures that customers can meet the demands of today and tomorrow with equal ease, combining different functionality as and when it is needed. Furthermore, integrated USB chargers within the range, ensure that users remain constantly connected in today’s digital age. It’s all part of a wider commitment to provide technologies that ensure Life Is On everywhere, for everyone and at every moment.
The range satisfies a demand for power and data connectivity, making life more convenient and comfortable for users, and providing business opportunities for interested electrical installers and wholesalers. In order to stay ahead of customer demands, installers must keep pace with the changing trends sweeping the wiring accessories industry. As with any change in the industry there will be winners and losers – and the winners will be those that are able to capitalise on emerging trends and stay ahead of customer demands.
