What Are Power System VARs?

Most people involved in building automation are familiar with kW, which is the rate at which a building is consuming energy from the power company. But there is another power system parameter known as VAR/kVAR which is less well understood. In this article we will attempt to dispel some of the VAR mystery. The term […]

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Power Monitoring – Harness the Power!

  Update!! The ENG-ETH Ethernet Communication Module for endicator is now available. It reads data from the endicator™ main processor, formats the data, and transmits it over Ethernet using BACnet IP, Ethernet IP, and Modbus TCP protocols. The module also hosts a website where meter status can be viewed using any browser that supports Adobe Flash.     […]

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AC to DC – Linear Versus Switch-Mode Power Supplies

For years, Kele has provided dependable, quality 24 VDC power supplies like the DCP-1.5-W, DCPA-1.2, DCP-250, PW2, and the SLS Series. All of these DC power supplies are “linear” power supplies. Another type of DC power supply gaining popularity with building automation and temperature control contractors is called a “switch-mode” power supply (PS6R Series). While both […]

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Belimo Zip Economizer – Time Saver!

The Belimo Zip Economizer is really a cool product that captured my attention.  If you are or were in the field like I was, I’m sure you’ve struggled just as I did with the “Black Box” style of economizer modules.  They could be difficult to commission at start-up if the OSA (outside air) was not […]

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Spring Return Fail Safe Electric Motors

Consideration must be taken when designing a control system as to what happens when controllers fail or if there is a loss of power. This is referred 
to as fail-safe or spring return. Devices, like valves and dampers, can be made to fail in a position that provides a minimum amount of comfort control or, […]

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Wireless is Becoming More Visible

New technology is always in some sense a little frightening and permeated with uncertainty, whether real or perceived. The very nature of it makes us cautious and reluctant to accept it. We then in turn, take smaller steps and fewer risks. While sometimes these new technologies give us cause to pause, it also offers us […]

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Honeywell T775 Controller

I started at Kele about 19 years ago.  Over the years I’ve been fortunate to learn a good bit about controls from many very talented folks – mentors, fellow employees, industry experts, and customers.  It is easy to have favorites in my line of work.  Being in tech support over an extended period of time, […]

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The Award goes to… Ohm’s Law!

If there were an awards show for Building Automation and Energy Management; there would have to be a lifetime achievement award. All awards shows have them. For Building Automation and Energy Management there may be none more deserving than Ohm’s Law. Ohm’s law may be the Beatles of Building Automation and Energy Management. The influence […]

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Energy Efficiency meet Investors. Investors meet Energy Efficiency

One of the major customer groups Kele serves is the contracting arms of ESCOs (Energy Service Companies).  We work with the great folks on the front lines in this industry everyday and we grow when they grow.  We believe in the work they are doing (making buildings safer, healthier and more energy efficient for occupants […]

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