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WE’RE THE ELECTRICAL EXPERTS, SO YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE.
After several weeks of Covid-19 shutdown, many businesses are coming out of quarantine and negotiating a plan for getting back to work quickly and safely – without skipping a beat on productivity.
THE NEW SPACE RACE
It’s what we’re calling the rush to critically re-evaluate office terrain. Assessing how environments are currently being used and how might those spaces be re-imagined in this “new normal.”
Just like the original Space Race – it’s a competition to see who can win by being the fastest to firsts in a whole new age. Only this time, it’s about being the first to figure out how to reconfigure the workspace to incorporate physical distancing.
Whenever we are racing to make huge leaps and giant changes to our everyday lives, technology is at the forefront. Good old Technology – the true VIP of social distancing. Video calls, ordering groceries online, ordering everything online, working from home; It’s all made possible by technology. And this huge increase in working-from-home isn’t going away once stay-at-home orders are lifted. In fact, Global Workplace Analytics estimates that 25-30% of the workforce will be working-from-home multiple days a week by end of 2021.
Even with a larger number of employees handling business from home, about 75% of employees will be returning to work in a shared workplace. And, finding a way to bring them back in safely is a huge undertaking. This one can’t be solved with Zoom Meetings and online shopping. For these changes, we must get back to physical space.
Currently, the CDC recommends we give each employee 6 ft. of space and we know that’s the number one factor when it comes to re-configuring the workplace. It’s a game changer. The open office floor plan was designed around the idea of fitting as many people as possible in a collaborative work environment. Now we have to completely flip the switch – without sacrificing the connectedness of the open floor plan we’ve grown to love. And we have to do it fast. Byrne’s own Facility Manager, Dane, is dealing with this challenge right now.
“Real Estate is a hard thing to come by, so maximizing spaces to their full dimensions is critical. Getting more out of our physical space while creating an inviting and safe place to work is the ultimate goal.”
Needless to say, he’s been busy. Hard at work; researching and implementing creative solutions for maximizing space and encouraging safe, social distancing.
We’ve compiled a list of some quick-fix office reconfig ideas that can help you make the most of your space as employees start to return to the work place.
RE-CONFIGURING TIPS FOR SOCIAL DISTANCING IN THE OFFICE
From “we” to “me.”
Modifying Collaborative Space to work as Dedicated Space
Reclaim work cafés and walk-up meeting areas to create more permanent work spaces. Office design over the last decade has shifted to more common areas – more choice in where you can work. Because of that, these collaborative spaces often have more square footage in the floor plan than designated desking. Think of it as “we” space to compensate for less “me” space. For social distancing, reclaiming some of this shared space is key.
Divide to unite.
Adding Space Dividers to Create Physical Barriers
In the short term, we will see space being broken up with temporary dividers and partitions giving workers a sense of privacy and security. They’ll break up ancillary spaces to encourage smaller “huddles.” They’ll be used to promote privacy in an open floor plan. They come in a ton of different shapes, sizes and materials so they’re an excellent way to retrofit an environment.
Online is on target.
Encourage video conferencing and other collaborative meeting platforms
Keep workers connected and productive – across the building or across the globe. More online meetings & working-from-home. What does that have to do with the physical office space? A lot actually. Remember the whole “dedensifying conference rooms thing” from number three? It means less of us can gather in a room and jump on a call with our work-from-home collaborators. It means we may have to join the virtual meeting from wherever we are. It means offices will need to provide more locations for video calls for smaller groups of people. Less in closed conference rooms and more out in the open.
Don’t be so dense.
Rethinking Conference Rooms for a Less Dense “Shared Power” Experience
Currently, the CDC recommends we no longer gather in groups of ten or more. And there’s also the six feet rule that needs to be considered. A conference table that normally sat 8 people comfortable may only really work for 4 now. All of this means those large conference rooms that used to host big cross functional meetings may end up being used as storage for all of the chairs that have been removed from everywhere else.
TAKE IT OUTSIDE.
Capitalize on Outdoor Spaces for Added Real Estate and Healthy Distancing
The trend in working outside is not a new one. Millennials and GenZers have been demanding more outdoor spaces at the office for a while. Coming back to work after social distancing at home for months will surely heighten that demand. Being outdoors encourages physical well-being and mental well-being. And for many people, it’s been a huge factor in “keeping their sanity” during this challenging time. Obviously working outside all day has its challenges – the weather, ergonomics, and the access to power too. But creating hardworking outdoor spaces for employees coming back to work will be a much needed breath of fresh air.
PRODUCTS TO POWER PRODUCTIVITY
As employers quickly improvise facilities and furnishings for returning employees, power may be easy to overlook, but it’s one of the most critical aspects of any successfully re-imagined workplace. We asked Dane (our Facility Manager again), what kind of role power distribution plays in getting spaces ready for back-to-work.
“Having multiple solutions for power has allowed us to reconfigure based on social distancing guidelines, knowing we had products that could support the new floor plan. When you only have to focus on the physical dimensions, knowing power solutions are in your back pocket to solve most issues, it allows you to be creative in problem solving.”
DESKTOP ACCESSORIES
There’s no easier way to turn one wall outlet into a bunch of places to plug in. And, our mounting options make it easy to add power to any table style. Mount it under the table, on the table’s edge, or as a freestanding unit. But just because they were designed for the desk doesn’t mean they’re not powerful in other places too. Remember those divider screens we talked about? You can easily add power to those too.
POWER FOR A WHOLE ROOM OF TABLES
Interlink IQ allows you to connect power to up to 8 tables with just one power cord. That’s one outlet – providing power to up to 8 tables. And it can be rearranged whenever and put back together however you want. It’s also great for providing power for a long table so coworkers can spread out at a shared table, without sharing power too.
POWER AWAY FROM THE WALL
Coming up with room for everyone, re-purposing furniture, following new rules and guidelines – it’s a lot. But arranging workstations around access to power outlets doesn’t have to be complicated too. There are plenty of ways to bring power to where you need it – no the other way around.
MORE OUTLETS WHEREVER YOU NEED THEM
If moving desks or seating up against the wall is the best way to give coworkers the distance they need, you may find having a few more outlets a huge help. With 4-Trac, add up to 13 duplex receptacles without making any cuts in the wall. And there’s no need to involve an electrician either.
SPREAD OUT ACCESS TO POWER
Distributing power along the perimeter of a conference tables gives users their own access to charging so they aren’t reaching across the table or huddling close to shared outlets. Under-surface mounted power accessories are a great way to save valuable real estate on top of the table too. 2-Trac is a super low-profile DC power solution that easily offers multiple user’s their own place to charge up. Twine is a highly configurable branching cord solution that can definitely provide some distance.
OUTDOOR POWER
Outdoor Vesta is a completely battery powered charging unit that includes enough USB ports to share with the team. And, with waterproof USB ports, it’s safe to leave outside all day. Rain, snow, or shine – just bring it in to recharge now and then.
THE POWER OF PRIVACY
Creating physical barriers is an excellent way to break up a space and give coworkers some personal space, but they can also break up access to power. So, depending on what the space is being used for, it may be important to take that into consideration. Combining divider screen solutions and power distribution makes it easy to retrofit privacy anywhere, without skipping a beat when it comes to productivity. Twine + Solo and Fence (coming soon) are great power partners for the privacy panels you’re sure to be using a lot of in the future.
At Byrne, we’re electrical experts so you don’t have to be. If you have any questions about power as you work through your new office layouts, just give us a call, or send us your new layout. We’re happy to help.
The biggest players in technology are moving toward adopting USB-C and the Power Delivery standard in their latest devices. That means we can start to charge all of our favorite tech (laptops, phones, speakers, smart watches, etcetera, etcetera) using the same cord, with the same connector. Type C comes with a ton of other benefits too, which we outlined in our last USB-C article. Check it out if you haven’t already.
USB-C can charge bigger devices than the USB we’re used to, and it charges faster too – about 70% faster actually. While all of these advancements are great, understanding how Type C works for our unique devices can get a little confusing. We’ve put together some quick explanations and helpful hints, to help you get the most out of your USB-C charge.
Super Fast Charging & Power Delivery
Power Delivery (PD) is basically a fast charging protocol. It’s a standard that USB-C charging agrees to, so that everyone’s devices are compatible and have the same basic functionality. It’s kind of like how ‘Qi’ is the universal standard for wireless charging. It’s a common language that technology & chargers speak together and a common standard to which they’re tested.
Here’s what you should know about USB-C & Power Delivery:
- With the launch of USB-C PD, charging power levels have increased up to a robust 100 Watts and 3 amps of power. And it’s this increase in power delivery that allows a USB-C cord to charge more power-demanding tech, like laptops, monitors, and even some printers.
- USB-C is bi-directional, so devices can either send or receive power. And power can be delivered at the same time a device is transmitting data, across the same connection—which means you can charge your phone with your laptop, or your laptop with your phone.
- Because USB-C connectors were specifically designed with Power Delivery in mind, they’re able to carry this new higher wattage without being damaged or overheating.
- USB-C with PD is smart. It delivers the power needed to charge a specific device as fast as possible without delivering too much, for optimal charging every time. How does it know? Well, the PD actually communicates with a device to determine how much power can be pulled from the charger, so it will never overpower or damage the unit.
What are some common devices that now use USB-C charging?
When it comes to USB-C Charging, how much power do you really need?
We know that USB-C with PD can deliver up to 100 Watts of power, but is understanding how much power a device needs actually important? Yes, sort of. You’ll want to check the specs on any PC before you buy, because not all USB-C ports are created equal. The good news is that, because USB-C is smart, you can’t overcharge your device. That means, plugging into a 60 Watt charger, when you only need 15 Watts, is completely fine. But, using too small of a charger, means you may not get as fast of a charge as you’re used to.
Obviously outliers exist, but this chart gives you a pretty good idea of the kind of wattage your device needs to get a good charge.
BYRNE IS ON BOARD
We understand that USB-C is positioned to be the new industry standard—which is why we already offer this universal interface in many of our products. But we also offer blended solutions that can charge your older devices too. The chart below can help you navigate which Type C charging outlet is right for you.
Whether you’re powering your home or office, a hospitality space or someplace in between, Byrne is committed to offering smart charging solutions that allow you to charge not only Type-C devices, but older devices as well. We’ve integrated USB-C into a variety of desktop and mobile power units, and it’s even available as an interchangeable “chiclet,” allowing you to customize nearly any Byrne power unit.
How do you know which charge is right for you?
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A whole lot, actually. That little USB-C connector means using just one cord across a range of different devices. And who wouldn’t love that?
What else is there to love about USB-C?
We’ve put together a list of a few things that are sure to make you a fan.
1. Cross Platform Charging
Not that long ago (perhaps earlier this morning), you needed a lightning connector for your iPhone, a micro USB for your Bluetooth speaker and an AC adapter for your computer. And with all that incompatibility often comes the hassle of carrying a bag full of adapters, cords and charging bricks. USB-C technology is different. It doesn’t just work across various brand platforms—like phones from Apple or Samsung—it works across whole technology platforms. Phones. Laptops. Tablets. With USB-C, one universal, shareable cord charges them all.
2. A New (and Better) Connector
If you’ve used a USB-C connector, you may have noticed that you can plug it in seamlessly. No flipping it around to find the top or bottom. The connector’s small size also means better mobility, lighter laptops, smaller tools and more space for other cool tech features.
3. Audio, Video & Super-fast Data Transfer
USB-C supports audio and video transfers up to 10GB per second. How fast is that? Well, you can download a high-definition, full-length movie in about 30 seconds. With older USB technology, you could only transfer images and file data. If you wanted audio or video, you’d need a meatier HDMI or VGA cable.
4. Rapid Charging & Power Delivery
Because we use all of this technology—phones, laptops, speakers, tablets, smartwatches, fitness trackers and more – so often, the need to plug in and charge quickly is a very big deal. That’s what makes the Power Delivery protocol used in the USB-C platform really exciting.
So, how fast is USB Type C Really Catching On?
Adopting new tech is a bit like adjusting the direction of a very big ship. Although USB-C is enjoying widespread support throughout the industry, it takes a while for any ship to turn—and for manufacturers and consumers to fully embrace any change. Until then, you’re sure to find both USB-A and USB-C co-existing in the market. But the change is happening.
- Devices that feature at least one USB-C port are forecasted to reach nearly five billion devices by 2021, up from about 300 million in 2016—that’s an annual compound-growth rate of more than 70% in just five years. (IHS Market, 2018)
- USB-C technology launched in 2014, and since then has received ten times more interest and investment in patents than USB Type A.
- All signs indicate that by 2021, 75% of smartphones and 100% of laptops worldwide will include USB-C Connectivity. (StarTech, 2018)
What About The Older USB?
At the rate new technologies, like USB-C and wireless Qi are growing, it looks like the older USB-A could be completely overtaken as early as 2021. While USB-A is still electrically compatible with the new USB technology, because of the updated port design, adapters are required if you want to connect a traditional USB flash drive or other device to a USB-C port.
POWERING FORWARD: How will USB-C change the way we work?
USB-C isn’t just about changing the way we plug in—it’s about changing the way we power whole spaces. Now, in areas where you previously needed AC power to charge laptops, you may only need USB-C charging ports. And that’s a game changer.
If you’re a designer working on collaborative spaces today, power should be at the center of your thinking. Asking some simple questions up front can help you understand if USB-C, USB-A, or traditional outlets are best for the space.
- What do users need to do in the space?
- Do they require more than that 100 Watts of power to charge their devices?
- Is there more value for your users in the convenience of USB-C access, or the familiarity of traditional AC outlets?
It could depend on personal preferences, as well as the flexibility needed within the space. So for a while, it may be a good idea to offer users multiple ways to plug in with blended power solutions that combine AC outlets, USB-A ports, USB-C ports and even wireless Qi charging.
USB-C offers a terrific opportunity for improved collaboration and easy connectivity through universal access. Its super-fast data delivery increases the speed of those connections for improved productivity too. And once the marketplace fully adopts USB-C, our bags won’t be overflowing with that old familiar mix of bulky adapters necessary to tackle whatever technology we might face. Instead, the USB-C interface will allow us to simply charge our devices, display shared content and transfer data, quickly and easily—all with a single cord.
USB-C POWER SOLUTIONS FOR COLLABORATIVE SPACES
Byrne is adding to our offering of USB-C charging solutions, and making it easier than ever to bring power right to where you need it, even in highly collaborative & ever-changing ancillary spaces, like these. For USB-C solutions to keep your space connected, click here.
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Did you know that there’s a spark every time an electrical outlet connection is made? You may not always see that little flash of light, but it’s there—both when plugging in and pulling a plug out. Creating that spark might catch you by surprise, but it’s totally normal. While most sparks are typically no cause for concern, there are harmful sparks out there too. Here, we’ll explore how to detect those abnormal sparks and the reasons your outlet might be creating them.
SO, WHAT DOES NORMAL LOOK LIKE?
When it comes to electrical, think small and blue. Small sparks are normal, big sparks that leap out of the socket are not. And sparks should be blue—only blue. Yellow, or any other color sparks, should not occur. Normal sparks will come and go very fast. They shouldn’t hang around or take time to fizzle out. Anything that smells like melted plastic or smoke is not okay and deserves a call to the electrician.
I’M SEEING SPARKS. WHAT’S UP?
Like we said, sparks happen all the time, whether you see them or not. But here are some different causes you’ll want to be aware of—and a few that may demand professional attention.
RAPID DRAW
This is basically another way of saying that pulling your plug out quickly can cause a brief spark. Electricity runs very hot and very fast along available circuits, and when you withdraw your plug from its socket, you see a little bit of that flow. These sparks are normal—as harmless as a touch of static electricity. And once electrons are freely flowing, there’s no longer a reason for a spark to form.
SHORT CIRCUIT
Inside an outlet, you’ll find hot, neutral and ground wires. If wires become loose, those hot wires may come into contact with the neutral or ground ones. When that happens, it creates a short circuit and the extra current can cause excessive heat. If you’re thinking that excessive heat in your outlet is reason for serious concern, you’re right. It can melt the insulation that covers wires and damage internal components. The electricity running through those exposed wires could even result in a fire. If you suspect a short circuit, call a professional electrician.
AGE
Everything gets old, including outlets. Connections may loosen with repeated use and outlets gradually wear out over time. Old, frayed cords can also cause sparking and arcs of electricity from the hot wire to the nearest ground—which may potentially be the person holding the cord. Aging electrical is a very big deal, so be sure to replace any components past their prime, inside or out.
NEGLIGENT REPAIRS
Electrical is definitely one area that demands the help of a professional. Don’t ever take short cuts when it comes to electrical repairs, or allow an electrical system to be worked on by an unqualified individual. If the person “fixing” the problem isn’t up to the task, you may be creating more hazards than you started with.
IF THERE’S A QUESTION… CALL A PRO.
As mentioned earlier, issues like yellow sparks, sparks lasting longer than it takes to insert a plug, the presence of smoke, or a burning odor are all warning signs. You can’t put a price on safety. Or peace of mind. So, if you have any concerns when it comes to electrical, it’s probably a good idea to simply call in an electrician to evaluate the situation for themselves.
More and more, companies are embracing open concept work spaces—areas designed around optimizing human interaction and collaboration. And for many people, this kind of dynamic, synergistic work isn’t very likely if workers are tethered against the wall. Looking to create an active, team atmosphere where people and ideas thrive? You’re going to want power at the center—and in the center—of those spaces.
WHAT ARE MY OPTIONS?
The question reminds us a little of the old bear hunt story. But unlike the children’s tale, when it comes to confronting the challenge of power in the middle of the room, you can actually go over it, go under it, or go through it.
Trenching
With this first option, you don’t just go under the floor…you really go under the floor. Trenching is just what it sounds like—cutting a trench in the concrete to support required power and cable management. With this approach, you’re going to want some pros on your team beyond the folks handling the concrete work. An electrician will need to run the conduit and a networking expert should handle the data connections. Because of the physical commitment involved, the best fit for a trenched solution is usually a new build or a significant renovation project.
Raised Flooring
For this solution, we’re still on the floor—just not quite as far down. In a raised floor application, power is run between the actual floor and a product that sits on top. Those few inches gained with a raised floor translate into a myriad of power and cable management benefits. Power is free to be channeled where it’s needed and floor boxes installed in the floor provide easy access points for pulling cables through. However, raised flooring can become a tripping hazard issue by creating different levels of flooring in a space. But a raised floor solution can accommodate a lot of power—perfect for work spaces with a high demand for tech support, as well multipurpose work areas looking for greater power flexibility. Like trenching, this solution probably makes the most sense as part of a larger renovation project.
Ceiling Power Distribution
Now, we’re headed over…with power that runs through the ceiling. In this solution, ceiling tiles conceal power and other cables supported by trays that run from the wall to the middle of the room or forgo the ceiling tiles for an exposed, industrial style. Once there, power drops from the ceiling housed in a pole or similar structure. Please note that because of the additional distance traveled from point to point, extended cable lengths are often necessary. And because this application requires several structural considerations—including the need for a dropped ceiling product (unless you like the look of exposed cable hardware)—it’s usually best suited for new building projects.
Furniture Power Distribution
Our final solution involves running power through portable or stationery furnishings with outlet receptacles mounted on or in the furniture. Corded or hardwired—both are options—they simply require connection to a wall or floor power source. And flexibility isn’t only about how things are wired here. Running power through furnishings also means higher adaptability because power units can be easily moved as space demands change. Ultimately, furniture power distribution is a great fit for existing or remodeled spaces that’s aren’t looking for a more permanent, infrastructure-based solution.
THINKING IT OVER
Regardless of the approach chosen, power distribution in any workplace is an important consideration and asking the right questions is sure to mean fewer headaches (and wasted dollars) as you move forward. So, here are a few issues to keep in mind as you consider making your own workplace a more dynamic and collaborative “center” of attention:
- How much money and time are you prepared to invest?
- How much power do people using the space need? How much data?
- How involved is the project—will an electrician or other experts be needed?
- Are you paying attention to safety concerns?
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- Avoid any opportunities for tripping hazards
- Be sure to check whether an electrical permit is required for your project
- Have you explored all the design and power options for your space?
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- Stay open to the possibilities!
Gone are the days of plugging in your electronics and being tethered down in order to charge. As devices are evolving in technology, so is the way we power up, and the latest evolution is towards wireless charging.
Qi charging is a form of wireless charging, and these days you’ll find it in use on a variety of small personal electronics—such as smartphones—but interest is growing across other devices too. With most devices adopting Qi standards, wireless charging is likely to become a standard part of technology in the near future and the integration of new wireless charging regulated devices will change the way we charge at home, in the office and even on the go. Here, we’ll give you an overview of how it works, which companies are using it, safety-related issues and projected market growth.
SO, HOW DOES WIRELESS CHARGING WORK?
Wireless charging can come in a variety of forms across many devices.
Radio Charging
Radio charging is a way to wirelessly charge commonly seen in devices such as wireless keyboards and mice, medical devices, watches and music players. These devices are powered on small batteries and use radio waves to send and receive wireless signals. When the device is configured to the same frequency, you are able to charge.
Magnetic Resonance Charging
For larger devices that use a significant amount of power, such as a large computer, electric car or vacuum cleaner, resonance charging is used. Resonance requires a copper coil to be attached to the device needing the charge with another copper coil attached to a source of power. The charging occurs when both copper coils are configured to a common electromagnetic frequency, thus charging from the power source over a short distance.
Inductive Charging
Qi is a form of inductive wireless charging. It occurs when energy is transferred from a charger to a receiver by way of electromagnetic induction. The charger uses an induction coil to create an electromagnetic field, which the receiver coil in the phone—or other device—simply converts back into electricity to feed the battery. The two coils typically need to be touching, with the receiver on top of the charger (or vice versa). Though this is considered by many to be cutting-edge technology, rechargeable toothbrushes and shavers have actually been using this kind of inductive charging since the 1990s. And Qi, a Chinese word that translates to “vital energy,” is today’s worldwide wireless charging standard. It’s able to provide from 5 to 15 watts of power—making it perfect for smaller electronics, like smartphones.
Check out below all of your inductive Qi options Byrne can provide:
WHO’S ON BOARD?
The mobile phone market remains the dominant force in overall use, with Samsung’s Galaxy smartphone series leading the pack. Technically speaking, these phones, starting with the S7 model, come equipped with dual-mode Qi, meaning the device is compatible with the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) standards as well as the Power Matters Alliance (PMA) standards, so they will be able to charge with any wireless receiver. Although Apple didn’t release wireless charging compatible devices until 2017, iPhones now come Qi equipped starting from iPhone 8 and versions beyond which are compatible with any Qi certified charging device.
Wearables are also a big category interested in wireless charging, driven by the Apple Watch, Samsung Gear S2 and other popular products. Even larger electronics have begun adopting wireless charging options. In 2017, Dell launched the world’s first wireless charging laptop with their release of the 2 in 1 Latitude 7285. But consumers are now seeking flexibility with their wireless charging. Energous, a wireless charging corporation, has created a wireless charging ecosystem solution that allows charging without contact up to 15 feet away.
Given access to all these Qi-supported products, it’s interesting that in a recent poll by IHS, only 20% of respondents report actually using wireless charging technology—and only 16% charge their devices with this technology on a daily basis. Most users consider wireless to be a good way to supplement wired charging, rather than a primary charging method. This could be due to the inefficiency of Qi charging compared to wired. Wired charging holds around 85% efficiency in the amount of energy sent out while QI charging has only risen to 75% efficiency from its initial launch percentage of 60%. Generally, wireless charging isn’t as fast as wired. In addition to that, the price difference between wired and wireless explains why adoption rates for wireless charging aren’t higher. Any wireless charger that would outperform a wired charger ranges $40-60, about double the price of any wired charger. This article from MacRumors tests wired versus wireless charger performance with an iPhone X.
SAFETY ISSUES TO CONSIDER
The Qi Wireless Charging Standard—developed by the multinational Wireless Power Consortium—outlines a number of consumer safety precautions, including issues like heat shielding and foreign object detection, especially among non-certified equipment. Recent tests conducted by independent labs found that non-certified charging products can reach almost 200° Fahrenheit—enough to cause a third-degree burn.
Some smartphones claim they are water-resistant, or even waterproof, but most wireless chargers are not. As with all electrical devices that connect to a power outlet, liquid can be very dangerous. Users should never get a wireless charger wet—and need to be sure any phone is dry before setting it down to charge.
A poorly made charger may also not be able to detect if a foreign object—like your keys or a coin is sitting on the pad under your smartphone. As a result, the charging pad may continue to emit power, not only damaging your device, but potentially melting the other objects on the pad. So, it’s important to look for a charger with a foreign object detector—one which will shut down charging and alert you (usually with an LED light) that something other than a compatible device is in contact with your charger.
Finally, when it comes to health and safety, a common cause for concern is the effect of electromagnetic fields (EMF) emitted by wireless chargers. High levels of EMF have been found to pose health risks such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, and even suicidal behavior. However, the EMF emission levels involved in wireless charging are negligibly low as there is no sustained human contact with the charging pad. In fact, a study conducted by the World Health Organization (WHO) confirms that exposure to low EMF emissions does not lead to any known health problems.
Products holding Qi certification through the Wireless Power Consortium (WPC) go through rigorous testing in order to become regulated. Products may be included in the Qi Certified Product Database under these conditions:
- The product has passed compliance testing by an authorized test lab (ATL)
- The product has passed interoperability testing by an Interoperability Testing Center (IOC)
- The product is compliant with the latest version of the Qi Specification
- The owner of the product is a Qi Logo Licensee.
By ensuring that all Qi-Certified devices work together, regardless of manufacturer, country of origin, version of the standard used, etc., the Qi standard ensures a consistent and simple user experience, where a Qi-Certified phone placed on a Qi-Certified charger will simply work. The process of becoming Qi certified is done in six steps:
- The manufacturer of the product starts the registration procedure by filling in an on-line form with information about the product, uploads picture and self-declaration forms, selects the Authorized Test Lab (ATL) that will perform the compliance test, and the InterOperability Testint Center (IOC) that will perform the interoperability test.
- The Logo License Administrator (LLA) verifies if the form is filled in correctly.
- The Authorized Test Lab (ATL) performs the mandatory compliance tests described in the test specification and uploads a test report summary.
- The InterOperability testing Center (IOC) performs the interoperability test
- The manufacturer of the product finalizes the description of the product. Uploads a picture showing the product as it will be shipped to customers, and provides the type number that identifies this product.
- The Logo License Administrator (LLA) verifies that the information is complete and consistent and makes the product visible in the product registration database.
FUTURE OUTLOOK
Shipments of wireless power receivers/transmitters are forecasted to grow from some 450 million units back in 2017 to more than 2.2 billion units by 2023. And by 2027, wireless charging shipments are expected to reach 7.5 billion units. Smartphones, wearables and home appliances are predicted to be the top three market drivers for wireless charging over the coming years.
Smartphones should account for about 77% of the 6 billion wireless charging receiver devices sold by 2023. Annual shipment volume for these devices in particular is expected to top one billion units by 2020 and two billion by 2025—according to IHS Markit, the leading global source of critical analytics information and insight.
In addition to current technology, advancements in wireless Qi charging are expected. Ossia, a wireless technology company, is in the process of developing a solution that is capable of transmitting power to a phone case of a distance of a few feet to slowly charge the phone inside. Ossia has partnered with a case making company, Spigen, to bring this product to consumers. The transmitter and power receiving case is set to launch in 2020. The company Solace is creating technology that changes the game for wattage allowance. Their wireless powering solution, Equus, is capable of delivering up to 200 watts versus the typical 5 to 15 watts. This amount of wattage is used to power portable medical equipment like carts, hospital beds and vital signs monitors, and manufacturing test equipment such as sensors and robotics. Wireless charging technology is even crossing over to the automotive sector. BMW is the first car manufacturer to create a wireless charging system for their hybrid car. It is set to be available for the BMW 520e iPerformance plug-in hybrid in 2019. It is also expected to see more charge points in locations such as airport and restaurant tables.
THE QI TO SUCCESS
Ultimately, the broad success of Qi-Certified devices in the marketplace depends on all the elements interfacing seamlessly—regardless of manufacturer, country of origin, version used, etc. The Qi Wireless Charging Standard, mentioned earlier, is intended to do just that: to ensure a consistent and user-friendly experience, one where a Qi-Certified phone placed on a Qi-Certified charger will work reliably, each and every time.
To find to out if your device is Qi compatible, check out the Wireless Power Consortium’s product database tool.
Keeping up with the different electrical codes across states (and even cities) isn’t easy. And if you’re not an electrical engineer, making sense of what’s actually allowed can get pretty tedious and confusing. So let us break it down simply in this video:
WHAT’S THE CODE IN CHICAGO?
Well, it’s not what it was just a few years ago. Chicago’s electrical codes previously allowed only hardwired power, but things have changed a bit—for the better, we think—and you now have more options.
But because adding power and data units into Chicago spaces is still tricky business, it’s important to remember the following rules:
CHICAGO DOES NOT ALLOW THE USE OF MODULAR POWER SYSTEMS AT ALL
Think cubicles and other panel systems arrangements. When modular systems products are used in any Chicago design, a licensed electrician is required to install hardwire electrical components into each furniture partition channel. Of course, hiring a licensed electrician may mean additional costs, but safety is the driver here. And it’s the law.
UL Listed outlet boxes are available for use in office furnishings that slide onto mounting brackets. But again, these can only be installed by a licensed electrician.
So, how can you move power away from the walls in Chicago? There are a few ways, actually…
CORDED AND DAISY CHAIN-STYLE UNITS MAY NOW BE USED ON FREESTANDING FURNISHINGS
If the tables in your room layout are height adjustable—with a hand crank, for example—then you may use a corded Furniture Power Distribution Unit or FPDU. (Specifically UL962A.) Actually, they’re allowed on any listed freestanding furnishings that can be repositioned by a single person—such as training tables, wheeled carts, etc. The maximum cord length on a FPDU is 9 feet, and you must have a circuit breaker when using 4 or more simplexes.
Corded accessories also include Interlink and IQ power centers, as shown below. They’re a great way to power multiple workstations away from a wall and stay compliant in Chicago.
FPDU’s actually allow up to (8) 15 AMP simplexes—and as many charging USB’s as you’d like. But again, don’t forget the circuit breakers.
ALL OTHER POWER AND DATA ACCESSORIES MUST BE HARDWIRED
In all other instances of room design and planning—beyond the freestanding furnishings mentioned above—power and data accessories must be hardwired.
WHY DOES THE ELECTRICAL CODE MATTER TO DESIGNERS AND MARKETERS?
Electrical codes aren’t simply important to engineers, architects, and interior designers. These professions may be the most affected because of the impact on room layout and design, but fields like marketing should also be in on the rules.
Consider, for example, that you’re running an ad campaign targeting Chicago interior designers for a new product launch. It’s crucial that any marketing collateral, as it relates to power, is both accurate and helpful.
In general, understanding electrical codes in the city of Chicago is a key part of delivering comprehensive work space solutions there. And in a time when customers can choose from furniture suppliers around the globe, this knowledge will help set you apart as a stronger resource.
In 2018, work spaces are entirely different than even 10 years ago. The days of “traditional” work spaces are quickly on dwindling, let alone the days of the “cubicle farm.” So what designs do matter for work spaces in 2018?
OPEN FLOOR PLANS
Open Floor Plans have been around for years, but we’re starting to see an increase in the use of this concept, moving from private offices and cubicles.
You read that right. Not only do these spaces not need “open door policies,” there aren’t even doors to close. Open floor plan offices encourage collaboration, shared work spaces, and everything that comes with them.
Designing work spaces has changed from a layout having just a few spaces within office buildings that are open concept to nearly the entire space as open floor plan. While the C-Suite may still have doors to close, the rest of the building likely will be sharing desks, outlets, and screens.
HOTELING AS A WORK SPACE
Working doesn’t have to be done at an assigned seat to be productive anymore. In fact, many people that come to the office take part in a trend called “Hoteling” or “Hot Desking”.
Hoteling doesn’t mean that you live at a hotel or even work in a hotel, instead it refers to using a scheduling system to reserve a desk for the day or a few hours. Hot Desking is similar, but deals with unassigned seating by a first come, first served basis.
Each of these concepts is moving us away from having an assigned or static desk and moving to an environment where you sit where you feel you’ll get your best work done. Heads down work could be in a space with more barriers and a quieter environment, collaboration could happen when your team decides to sit together for a day or two.
This surge in providing unassigned workspaces is already changing the face of many offices and can be seen in the rise of Co-Working Spaces.
STANDING WORKSPACES
Standing work desks are more than just a passing fad. Their sudden rise in popularity is linked to more than just health benefits. From a facility point of view this is saving valuable real estate or even allowing new workspaces to be deployed within an existing footprint.
Standing desks increase collaboration, focus, and productivity. You may have heard the phrase “sitting is the new smoking,” but you may not be familiar with all of the benefits of standing.
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR YOU?
As new workers arrive in the office we need the workspaces to meet their needs not just for doing a task, but also meeting their social needs. That means that our workspaces are changing and how we design them up makes a difference. The goal of a great workspace design is to provide the tools that someone will need, so that all they need to do is sit down, plug in and get to work.
With every day and the improvement technology tools at work, the way we work changes. And when the way we work changes, workspace design needs to change too. How is it affecting you? Let us know in the comments of this blog.
In a world where people can work from home, why sacrifice the convenience and comfort in an office space?
Design and coworking spaces are constantly changing. And while it seems hard to keep up initially, understanding how wireless power is completely changing the way we design spaces is a big first step.
WIRELESS POWER IN WORK SPACES
Just a couple of decades ago, the workplace was designed around the significant technology explosion of USB and other cables. So many new technologies needed to be connected – to sync, to charge, and to function at all.
This required several changes to workplace design. In an effort to accommodate the cables and cords that were so prevalent in workspaces, furniture made a shift. Desktops and bench style tables were designed to include troughs or other under-surface cable organizers. Raised floors were invented in an effort to manage cables, cords, connections, and power charging without cluttering desks, conference rooms, and other shared spaces.
Even with these new design styles, designing new methods for cable management were the beginning of countless startups, technology branches, and other new designs. But as we’ve learned in Business School, leadership books, and TED Talks alike, incremental change isn’t the way to a blue ocean strategy.
Fast forward to the mid-2010s and we’ve seen massive changes in how the workspace is designed.
With the emergence of Bluetooth and wireless power, cables no longer need to be managed but rather sought.
Gone are the days of needing to charge your phone in your car during your lunch breaks. Office spaces, restaurants, and hospitality spaces are all finding the great value in wireless power within their walls.
WIRELESS POWER BENEFITS FOR DESIGNERS AND MARKETERS
Wireless power encourages smartphone owners to find the nearest pad, case, or any other home for inductive coupling. Rather than being chained to a wall by a 3ft cable, users can set down their phones on a surface that will charge their phones. Some of the biggest benefits include:
Reducing the need to use a car charger rather than plug in at work,
in airports, or at a coffee shop with wireless power
Eliminating the need to buy phone chargers by the dozen
These benefits alone can influence a decision on where to stay for vacation, where to work, what airport to use, and what brand of charger to swear by. As designers, it’s critical to maintain spaces that complement those who work within it. And as marketers, it’s just as critical to understand pain points that led to these design shifts.
While designing with these new technologies may force costs to be incurred sooner rather than later, they are quickly becoming the expectation for the base norm. Until wireless charging goes into full effect, you will begin seeing power solutions with a combination of plug ins as well as cordless options.