Journal of feedback
Evolving Connectivity Media Partner
Thursday 21 March 2024 9:30am - 4:00pm The National Motorcycle Museum, Birmingham
www.evolvingconnectivity.com
Vol. 19 Spring 2024 £4.95
Association For Audio Visual Professionals
Editor’s Report Suzie Hamm-Bury, Marketing Specialist ............................................. 3 CAI Certification Scheme ..................................................................... 6 From the Chairman Peter Sealey, Chairman and Senior Executive .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Membership Benefits including Which, Fleet & Commercial, AA, Fuelcard, TrustMark, Bosch and Approved Business ........................................................ 17 Charity Launches No Falls Week Hannah Williams, Charity Manager, No Falls Foundation .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 WRC2023: A Synopsis Peter Barnett, Consultant .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36 The Future of Television Distribution Richard Lindsay-Davies, Chief Executive, DTG ................................... 40 Constellation Analysis of DVB-S2 8PSK Robert Sydee FSCTE, Technical Director, Whyte Technologies ................ 44 CAI Essential Principles for Installers Keith Bail FSCTE, Trainer and Consultant, KB Consultancy ..................... 46 Assessment & Technical Executive Report 2023/24 Kevin Dawson, Assessment and Technical Executive FSCTE ASET .. . . . . . . . . . . 54 A Counter Point to Streaming Robert Sydee FSCTE, Technical Director, Whyte Technologies ................ 58 Marketing Report - an Update Suzie Hamm-Bury, Marketing Specialist .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Emerging Internet of Things (IoT) Solutions for Buildings Andrew Brann MSCTE, Sales Director, Televes .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 Introduction to G.hn EoC Technology Steve Staples FSCTE, Technical Sales Support Manager, Triax UK ............. 66 A Complete Guide to Coaxial Cables John Pindar, Marketing Manager, Webro .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 74 CAI Education & Skills Training Programme Course Results .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 78 CAI Safe Working at Height ................................................................. 85 CAI Education & Skills Training Programme Foundation Level Diploma in Signal Reception Results .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 87 Products, Ideas & Company News .......................................................... 88 EC2024 Showguide ........................................................................... 93 Journal of feedback contents
Editor: Suzie Hamm-Bury Designed and Printed by: Evolution Print & Design Ltd Tel: 0116 274 7700 Email: sales@evolutiondc.co.uk
SELF ASSEMBLY MEDIA CABINETS
450mm: 4U, 6U, 9U, 12U 600mm: 6U, 9U, 12U, 15U
A range of accessories are also available including patch panel, surge protected PDU, cable management, plus blank & brush plates
www.antiference.co.uk
Editor’s Report Suzie Hamm-Bury, Marketing Specialist
A warm welcome to the spring 2024 edition of Journal of feedback This spring edition of Feedback welcomes articles from all areas of our industry including technical articles, new product launches, trade news and some of our all-important membership benefits. This edition is bursting with technical stories from CAI members, industry gurus including Peter Barnett with a WRC23 synopsis, Richard Lindsay-Davies from the DTG on the Future of Television Distribution, Hannah Williams from the No Falls Foundation, Keith Bail one of our current CAI tutors discusses Essential Principles for Installers and finally Kevin Dawson, our Assessment and Technical Executive, also
providing his latest round up of news. In addition we have our fantastic member benefits section within the publication. Make sure you read and understand all the offerings from the CAI partners particularly from Fleet & Commercial our Insurers, as there are real savings to be had. Our other member benefit partners also include Bosch power tools, Dell, Adelie Branding, The AA, Fuelcard and Approved Business – so there really is something for everyone. Of course, this spring edition is also packed with full show details of Evolving Connectivity 2024. Our full show guide featuring all of our exhibitors can be found at the back of this publication.
The National Motorcycle Museum Birmingham
Thursday 21 March 2024 9:30am - 4:00pm
3
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
the City & Guilds accreditation of 12 of our bespoke training courses. We remain confident that CAI can deliver courses that will really enhance the professionalism and standards in our industry. Trustmark
The CAI are all immensely proud of how Evolving Connectivity has developed over the years and are more than confident that EC2024 will be a bigger and better event, and will again be hugely productive and informative for everyone involved.
We are very pleased to report that our TrustMark scheme continues to be successful. Since its launch to CAI members in spring 2015, we now have 106 Members with 8 Branches gaining TrustMark status. With over 22,000 people every month searching for reputable traders, we can certainly see the scheme continue to grow. Which? Trusted Traders
This year, we will again be holding our highly successful CAI Gala Dinner and Awards on the evening of Thursday 21 March. This has always been extremely well attended, so we are sure the evening will be another great success. Once again the dinner is being held at The National Motorcycle Museum and coaches are provided from the Arden Hotel to the venue and return. We look forward to seeing you there. I am always happy to hear news from any of our members as this is what makes Feedback, and makes it so unique. I do hope you enjoy reading this edition. A big thank you once again to all contributors to Feedback. As always, I am extremely grateful for all your articles and your continued support, enabling it to remain a well known and respected trade journal. City & Guilds Accreditation & Training
CAI are excited to remain working with Which? Trusted Traders who continue to offer members a 50% discount for the first 6 months of
Which? Trusted Traders’ membership. The scheme has been running a couple of years now, and is an excellent offering to CAI members that gives another route to attract potential domestic customers for an initially discounted rate. More details can be found on this CAI member scheme later in the publication. Membership and Training If you would like information on how to join CAI or for any information regarding our training courses always visit; www.cai.org.uk or call the Watford office on 01923 803030.
CAI’s courses remain ever popular with members and non-members alike undoubtedly due to
4
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
CAI Certification Scheme Previously known as CAI Benchmarking
Association For Audio Visual Professionals
CAI Cable Certification Scheme Detailed below is the current list of companies plus their respective cables that have been accredited under the CAI cable certification scheme – this is correct as at the time of going to press. An updated list will be printed in each issue of Feedback and can also be found live on the CAI website. CAI Approved Cables
Company
Part No
CPR Rating
Certificate No
Cable Type 100
Antiference Ltd
A100
CAI 0125 G
Comtec Cable Accessories
HT100
CAI 0164 F
535B 535B/250 537B 537B/250
Eca
CAI 0146 D
Deta Electrical Co Ltd
Foshan Shengda Cable Co Ltd MF100
Eca
CAI 0156 C
Leigh Cables Commercial Ltd LCC100
Eca
CAI 0136 F
AR-01-004 AR-01-104 AR-01-204 AR-01-204W
CAI 0157 C
Mayflex UK Ltd
Qing Cables Ltd
DFD100
Eca
CAI 0100 H
Securi-Flex Ltd
SFX100
Dca
CAI 0131 F
Shoal Group t/a F S Cables
392FS100
Eca
CAI 0161 A
Shoal Group t/a F S Cables
392FS100-C04 Cca
CAI 0163 A
Televes UK Ltd
SK110 Plus
Eca
CAI 0115 G
6
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Televes UK Ltd
SK2005PLUS Cca
CAI 0151 D
Triax UK Ltd
KOKA 110+ Cca
CAI 0150 D
Cca (LSNH) Eca (PVC)
CAI 0116 G
Webro Cables & Connectors WF100
Webro Cables & Connectors WCF100
Eca
CAI 0122 F
Webro Cables & Connectors HD100
Dca
CAI 0154 D
Zhejiang TianJie Industrial Corp TJ100
Eca
CAI 0162 A
Cable Type 125 Webro Cables & Connectors WF125 Cable Type 165 Webro Cables & Connectors WF165 Cable Type RG6 Webro Cables & Connectors RG6 SDU Cable Twin Type 0.65 Hengtong Optic-Electric Co. Ltd HT63
Fca
CAI 0142 E
Fca
CAI 0141 E
Eca
CAI 0110 G
Eca
0.65 Twin CAI 0006 F
Webro Cables & Connectors WF65
Eca
0.65 Twin CAI 0011 E
Zhejiang TianJie Industrial Corp TJ65 Twin
Eca
0.65 Twin CAI 0020 A
Cable Twin Type 100 Qing Cables Ltd
DFD100 Twin Eca
100 Twin CAI 0017 C
Securi-Flex Ltd
SFX100 Twin Dca
100 Twin CAI 0012 D
Webro Cables & Connectors TWINSAT 100 Eca
100 Twin CAI 0013 D
7
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
CAI Aerial Certification Scheme Detailed below is the current list of companies plus their respective aerials that have been accredited under the CAI aerial approval scheme – this is correct as at the time of going to press. An updated list will be printed in each issue of Feedback and can also be found live on the CAI website. CAI Approved LTE Aerials
Benchmark Standard
Company
Model
Certificate No Group
Antiference Ltd
TCX-10T
Standard S CAI/AB 171 T
Blake UK Ltd
DMCT/F
Standard S CAI/AB 162 T
DMX05T/F
Standard S CAI/AB 163 T
DMX08T/F
Standard F CAI/AB 164 T
Televes UK Ltd
13 Element Yagi 790 Standard F CAI/AB 167 T
V Zenit
Standard F CAI/AB 172 T
8
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
European IRS Certification Scheme
Association For Audio Visual Professionals
multiple technologies are expected to work in adjacent spectrum bands without causing interference to one another. Similarly, interoperability between receivers and switching equipment is essential to support platform delivery as well as having industry agreed requirements and independent verification of properties such as signalling and power levels being sent between receivers and switches. Therefore, the EICS gives installers, specifiers, distributors and retailers, manufacturers, broadcasters and platform operators confidence that products will perform as intended and are compatible with platform requirements, providing system integrity.
The European IRS Certification Scheme (EICS) outlines a set of tests to verify the efficient use of spectrum by dSCRs and multiswitches as well as interoperability with satellite and DTT receivers, providing an industry agreed test regime for these types of equipment. Currently there are no harmonised standards for satellite launch amplifiers, dSCRs and multiswitches to demonstrate compliance to the Radio Equipment Directive, meaning there is no industry-wide specification to test how spectrally efficient their performance is. Spectral efficiency is a key aspect of a performance and criteria such as isolation, dynamic range, interference rejection, and gain control, all indicate whether a product can perform well in today’s environment where
dSCRs/plug-in dSCRs
Company
Product Name/Part Number
Certificate Number EICS-DC-1037 A EICS-DC-1038 A EICS-DC-1031 A EICS-DC-1032 A EICS-DC-1044 A EICS-DC-1045 A EICS-DC-1001 B EICS-DC-1002 B EICS-DC-1048 A
Antiference Antiference
ADM04 5-4 ADM08 5-8
Fracarro Fracarro
SWI8508 dSCR multiswitch SWI8504 dSCR multiswitch
Global Invacom Global Invacom
dSCR GTU
dCSS Switchblade
Inverto Inverto Inverto
dSCR multiswitch 4o/p dSCR multiswitch 8o/p dSCR multiswitch 12o/p
9
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Televes S.A.U Televes S.A.U Televes S.A.U Televes S.A.U Televes S.A.U Triax UK Ltd Triax UK Ltd Triax UK Ltd Triax UK Ltd Triax UK Ltd
dCSS multiswitch 714101 2o/p EICS-DC-1007 A dCSS multiswitch 714102 4o/p EICS-DC-1008 A dCSS multiswitch 714103 8o/p EICS-DC-1009 A dCSS multiswitch 714104 12o/p EICS-DC-1010 A dCSS multiswitch 714105 16o/p EICS-DC-1011 A
TdSCR508 TdSCR512 TdSCR516 TdSCR504 TdSCR506 EV5-D2S EV5-D4S EV5-D6S EV5-D8S
EICS-DC-1003 A EICS-DC-1004 A EICS-DC-1005 A EICS-DC-1006 A EICS-DC-1049 A EICS-DC-1015 A EICS-DC-1016 A EICS-DC-1017 A EICS-DC-1014 A EICS-SR-1013 A EICS-DC-1033 A EICS-DC-1034 A EICS-DC-1035 A EICS-DC-1036 A
Vision Products (Europe) Ltd Vision Products (Europe) Ltd Vision Products (Europe) Ltd Vision Products (Europe) Ltd
Whyte Technologies Whyte Technologies Whyte Technologies Whyte Technologies Whyte Technologies
WSCR504RP 4o/p
WSCR504 WSCR506 WSCR508 WSCR512
Satellite Receivers
Company Freesat Freesat Sky UK
Product Name/Part Number
Certificate Number EICS-RC-1018 A EICS-RC-1019 A EICS-RC-1012 A
UHD-4X-500
UHD-X
SkyQ
LNBs
Company
Product Name/Part Number Wideband LNB 747402
Certificate Number EICS-LNB-1020 A
Televes S.A.U
10
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Optical Gateways
Company
Product Name/Part Number
Certificate Number EICS-OG-1042 A EICS-OG-1043 A EICS-OG-1039 A EICS-OG-1040 A EICS-OG-1041 A EICS-OG-1021 A EICS-OG-1022 A EICS-OG-1023 A
Global Invacom Quattro GTU Global Invacom Quad GTU Global Invacom OTx 1310 Global Invacom OTx 1550 Global Invacom O2O 1310
Televes S.A.U Overlight Optical Transmitter 237501/502 Televes S.A.U Optical Receiver Quattro 237540 Televes S.A.U Optical Receiver dCSS 237530/31/32
Launch Amps
Company
Product Name/Part Number 318641/646 TMSA 318640/645 TMSA
Certificate Number EICS-LA-1029 A EICS-LA-1030 A
Triax UK Ltd Triax UK Ltd
Multiswitches
Company
Product Name/Part Number
Certificate Number EICS-MS-1046 A EICS-MS-1047 A EICS-MS-1024 A EICS-MS-1025 A EICS-MS-1026 A EICS-MS-1027 A EICS-MS-1028 A
Global Invacom Switchblade Base 8 way Global Invacom Switchblade SatPlus 8 way
Triax UK Ltd Triax UK Ltd Triax UK Ltd Triax UK Ltd Triax UK Ltd
318613/626 TMS 5x8 318614/627 TMS 5x12 318615/628 TMS 5x16 318616/629 TMS 5x24 318617/630 TMS 5x32
11
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
From the Chairman Peter Sealey, Chairman and Senior Executive
I’m less happy to report that member numbers have now dropped to just below 400. Although I should point out that 20
Welcome to the 2024 edition of Feedback, it’s hard to believe it’s been 12 months since I last wrote my review of the year, time has really flown past. I hope you find this issue as informative, interesting and useful as ever. As always, we’ve included the Evolving Connectivity 2024 Show Guide in this issue, and I really hope to see you all there this year. The show remains very popular and once again we had very positive feedback from both visitors and exhibitors after the 2023 event.
years ago, we only had 250 members, this reduction is now a worrying trend – although we’re not losing members any more quickly than in previous years, we’re not adding new members at the same rate as before. Obviously, I wouldn’t want you to think that the Board has been sitting idly-by while this is happening, we established a small Development Committee in early 2023 who’ve been taking evidence from across the industry throughout the year, and who reported their recommendations to the wider Board in January. I’m confident you’ll see changes, new initiatives and essential developments in 2024, and beyond, to make membership more useful and beneficial than ever.
Once again in 2023 and early 2024, issues affecting all businesses continue to make the headlines, especially around the state of the economy, energy prices and inflation. CAI is, as are all businesses, impacted by these factors, but, despite this, I’m happy to report that the Board have opted against an increase to 2024/25 membership subscriptions, which we hope all members will support and appreciate in the current economic environment. This means there will have been no increase in 3 of the last 5 years as we do everything we can to manage our costs and keep the (sometimes still sadly essential), increases to Membership Subscription rates to a minimum.
Although it’s not a completely new issue, one of the topics we’ve been particularly grappling with in the last 6 months, is that of developers
opting to install data only networks in new developments, including sites that were originally specified as requiring IRS. Although this is by no means the most common situation with developments, it is a growing
12
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
process. In fact, by the time you read this, we will have attended a reception at the House of Commons, where we hope to make more useful contacts and potentially get the opportunity to make our case. We will continue to lobby at every opportunity to try
issue, and additionally in a few more cases the developer is opting for a MATV system alongside the data network, instead of an IRS system. In fact, we know of developments of apartments where some blocks still have IRS specified, some MATV only and some, no TV system. Clearly the spread of these decisions by developers is worrying at several levels. From the CAI Member perspective there’s the potential loss of work, or the “down- valuing” of work, from our manufacturer and distributor members there’s the loss of IRS equipment and associated sales, but there are also many potential problems for the purchasers or renters of these properties – if nothing else the developer is, by default, putting the PSB’s behind a broadband pay wall, something that is obviously against the spirit of the licence fee and decades of Public Service broadcasting in the UK. Additionally, some sectors of society really don’t want to, or struggle to use only streaming services. We also think it is yet to be discovered exactly how some developments of several hundred homes or apartments will cope with multiroom streaming, UHD services, game playing and all the other uses of the internet, simultaneously. CAI is taking a 2-pronged approach to this issue. Firstly, we’re working with manufacturers and distributors, and other interested parties, to provide installers with key facts and information they can use to try to persuade developers that they’re making a mistake when they don’t specify a TV system for a new development. Secondly, we’re working with the same group, but also lobbying at a national level to try to get pressure applied to developers who look to take these decisions. We’ve also joined Broadcast 2040+ - a lobby group trying to ensure the future of DTT beyond 2034 – and have been in discussions with many other potential friends in this
to get developers to postpone these decisions for several more years to come.
As well as holding Evolving Connectivity in March 2024, we’ll also be holding our annual Gala Awards Dinner, where I also hope to see many of you. The awards have always included the Terrestrial Installer of the Year and CAI Company of the Year but 2024 will see the second ever Trade Counter of the Year Award presented. This is voted for by you, our members, and proved to be very popular, with many members voting. Congratulations again to Eurosat London for winning the inaugural award, and, in advance, to whomever picks up the prize in 2024. Technical Progress As with every year, since the last time I wrote the work of the Technical Committee and sub-committees has continued. The Code of Practice Sub-Committee and the main Technical Committee have continued to put considerable time and effort into rewriting the Codes of Practice. The update of CoP1 – Installation of Terrestrial and Satellite TV Reception Systems (MDU & Commercial) – was published in early 2022, and then in late 2022 the updated version of CoP2 – Aerials, Antennas and Receiving Equipment in the Single Dwelling Unit – was also published, after being distributed for consultation. The committee is currently working on updating CoP3 - Electrical Safety Requirements for Signal Reception Systems (Excluding CATV) -
13
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
and when we have the relevant details, we will, of course, let members know. We’re also keen to remind members that the members- only forum continues to operate via our website. This is a very useful facility if you have technical questions, observations, or answers to other member’s questions, and we’d like to encourage members to take part and use the facility, subject to the rules listed on the forum, of course. If you don’t have member log-in details, then you can request them on www.cai.org.uk under the My CAI section. CAI Academy Progress The Education and Skills Committee and the various tutors have also been very busy. As well as launching several new training courses over the last few years, we’ll hopefully be launching yet more, hoping to help members in several ways with practical training. I’m unable to confirm this at the time of writing but are hopeful of giving more training updates at Evolving Connectivity 2024. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all the manufacturers who’ve provided equipment for the CAI Training Room, including Triax, Fracarro, Televes, Whyte, Global Invacom, Inverto, Webro, Alltrade, Blake UK, SCS Technologies and KB Consultancy.
and we hope it will be put out for consultation very soon. The other codes will follow, and then once all are completed, it’ll be time to start work on CoP1 all over again. CPR also remains a topic that we’re keeping an eye on and reviewing developments to see if we need to issue new advice to members regarding the fire performance of the cables they use, although so far, we have merely had to reiterate our original advice. We also continue to keep an eye on developments within the RED and will update members of any changes if that time comes.
The Certification sub-committee is also busy. We’ve been developing a new Group K Aerial Certification standard, and, as I wrote last year, a visit to the National Physical Laboratory to certify the specification took place. That testing validated most of the specification and after a few tweaks, we’re hoping there will be CAI Certified Group K aerials available this year. The European IRS Certification Scheme, developed hand in hand with the
DTG, continues to go from strength to strength with new products added throughout 2023, and renewals having already started taking place.
Marketing Developments The Marketing Committee also continues to work hard for CAI members. As well as trying to support Amanda as much as possible while she works so hard to make sure Evolving Connectivity 2024 and the Gala Dinner are a ACADEMY
The Technical Committee continues to monitor, and have input into BSi, Cenelec and ETSI activities and I’d like to take this opportunity to thank Dave Hodges and Peter Barnett for their work in these areas. Several new standards are, as always, in development,
14
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
of CAI membership. TrustMark have also added several new benefits and discounts from some suppliers for registered businesses, which can be found on their website: https:/ www.trustmark.org.uk
success, we’re also trying to improve benefits we offer members. Member benefits include the continuing relationship with Which? Trusted Traders and Bosch professional Power Tools, both companies offering CAI members discounts. Since last year we’ve also added Adelie, providers of workwear and Dell Technologies UK. Fleet and Commercial remain our recommended insurance broker, and we’ve had very positive feedback about their service since they started working with CAI Member Companies. However, they’d like us to reiterate that members need to be sure that they’re getting the correct level of cover, especially for tools in transit, following an increase in thefts from vans. Insurance companies seem to be taking increasingly hard attitudes around cover, so it’s worth making sure you have the correct cover, even though this can take up a lot of admin time once a year. It would be remiss of me not to mention TrustMark. We are the only organisation in the Home Entertainment sector that enables you to obtain TrustMark status. TrustMark have been working away to develop new opportunities for Registered Businesses, and to increase their visibility to the public, something which is really starting to benefit TrustMark Registered Businesses. They’ve also released an app, offering the public a convenient way to find a trader as well as help jargon busting and a ‘one-stop shop’ guide to making home improvements. Don’t forget that systems members can also become TrustMark registered, following an update to the categories we can include another benefit
Of course, both the CAI office, and www. getmeviewing.org.uk continue to receive many enquiries, from residential and commercial customers, all looking for high quality, reputable, companies to undertake work for them. Although our primary focus remains the raising of standards in our industry, through education, training, Codes of Practice, and member assessment, we will also always strive to help our members attract customers, whichever category they operate in. As Chairman and Senior Executive, I have also continued to have meetings with organisations and individuals who we feel can benefit the CAI membership. Sky Homes continue to offer support to systems members who wish to engage with them and have had input into various Technical Committee discussions. I also have discussions with the DTG, Ofcom, CEDIA and Retra as well as CAI members, broadcasters, and anyone else who I can find to help drive forward our agenda. As I’m writing this in early 2024, I’d like to take the opportunity to extend my welcome to Dave Cooper, who’s a returning Director to the CAI Board after an absence of several years, and Jack Miles, Scott Oliver and Martyn O’Sullivan, who are all new to the Board. We were really encouraged by the number of installing members who were nominated to stand for the Board in 2023, the most I can
15
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
tutors who deliver our training programmes are also due many thanks.
remember in fact. Consequently, we also decided to co-opt Simon Little, who’d also been put forward, and only lost out on a place in a very close vote. I’m really looking forward to their, and the other existing Directors, enthusiasm, knowledge, and expertise to help to move CAI forward as our market continues to evolve and develop. I’d like to thank them all, especially my Vice Chair, Paul Blake, as we really appreciate their giving up their time to give back to the industry. I’d also like to thank the members of all the Committees, both CAI Members, and the experts who give up their time from other industry related bodies, to help CAI make progress year after year. The
Obviously, we are most grateful to all our members, who continue to support us, and their industry, through their Membership. Lastly, and above all personally, I must thank all the CAI staff, especially Bev, for all their support and assistance throughout 2024, it’s been another challenging year for them all, especially Bev, and I really appreciate the incredible help, hard work, effort and general cheerfulness of everyone.
CAI ID cards now available! To pre-order your ID card, contact Charlene Burke, Membership Secretary via email, charlene.burke@cai.org.uk.
Association For Audio Visual Professionals
CAI - Communications House, 41a Market Street, Watford, Herts, WD18 0PN UK +44 (0)1923 803030 office@cai.org.uk /cailimited /cailtd www.cai.org.uk
16
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Membership Benefits
Association For Audio Visual Professionals
membership benefits
17
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Membership Benefits
Being a CAI Member brings amazing benefits that can save you money!
Association For Audio Visual Professionals
Vehicle Services?
Consumer Recognition?
Tools & Equipment?
18
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Get recognised by the UK’s consumer champion Become a Which? Trusted Trader
CAI members get 50% off the monthly membership fee for their first six months * Call now 029 2168 2154 or visit which.co.uk/cai
*Offer is 50% off the monthly fee for the first six months after becoming endorsed. Eligibility criteria and an initial non-refundable assessment fee apply.
Membership Benefits
Benefits of the AA The AA
Association For Audio Visual Professionals
LET THE AA KEEP YOU ON THE ROAD
Running a company with vehicles at its heart means that staying still isn’t an option. The AA’s business breakdown cover will make sure your drivers get back on the road quickly – and with minimum disruption – if the worst happens.
All you need to do is choose the right level of cover for you.
Whether you just have a single vehicle or run a whole fleet, the AA can cover your cars, vans, motorbikes and more – as long as they’re 3.5 tonnes or under. If you’re not sure if your vehicle would be eligible, you can call the AA on 0800 55 11 88 to check.
Cover from just £70.64 per vehicle, no matter how small your fleet! Visit theAA.com/business for a quote, using unique reference code.
21
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Membership Benefits
Navigating Commercial Insurance Premium Inflation in the UK James Archer Cert CII Senior Account Executive Fleet and Commercial
Fleet & Commercial Has Your Back in 2024
Risk Mitigation: We excel in identifying potential risks that your business may face. By proactively addressing these risks, we help minimise the likelihood of claims, ultimately contributing to lower insurance costs over time. Insurance Market Insight: Staying abreast of the ever-changing insurance market is crucial. We monitor market trends and negotiations to secure the most competitive rates for your business, ensuring you receive comprehensive coverage at a fair price. Claims Assistance: In the unfortunate event of a claim, Natalie and our claims department provide invaluable support. Our expertise streamlines the claims process, minimising disruptions to your business to endeavour a swift resolution. Protecting Your Business Future While commercial insurance premium inflation may be a challenge in 2024, partnering with Fleet & Commercial offers you a strategic advantage. By leveraging our insights and expertise, your business can navigate the complexities of the insurance landscape, securing robust coverage without compromising your financial stability. In times of uncertainty, having a reliable insurance advisor becomes a crucial asset. Trust us to guide your business through the intricacies of insurance, providing peace of mind and safeguarding your enterprise against unforeseen risks.
In 2024, the United Kingdom is experiencing a surge in commercial insurance premium inflation, posing challenges for businesses seeking comprehensive coverage. As economic landscapes evolve, ensuring the protection of your business becomes more critical than ever. The commercial insurance landscape is dynamic, influenced by various factors such as market trends, regulatory changes, and global events. Amidst this complexity, James and the team at Fleet & Commercial emerge as a trusted ally for businesses looking to navigate the intricacies of insurance in the face of rising premiums. Understanding the Inflation Commercial insurance premiums in the UK have seen an upward trend in 2024, driven by factors like increased risk perception, changes in government policies, and the evolving nature of business operations. This inflationary pressure can burden businesses, affecting their bottom line and overall financial health. Why Fleet & Commercial? Our experienced executives in commercial insurance are well-positioned to guide businesses through these challenging times. Here’s how we can assist you: Tailored Solutions: We understand that each business is unique. By conducting a thorough assessment of your business operations, we can tailor insurance solutions that address your specific needs, ensuring you get the coverage you require without unnecessary costs.
23
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Membership Benefits
Benefits of using Fuel Cards Fuel Card Services
In addition to this you can have CO2Count, where members can monitor and control carbon related emissions. Fuel Cards can be insured against misuse with Card Protect, and you can use MileageCount to avoid any unnecessary administration by being able to easily capture business and private mileage. New products, new services As if all that wasn’t enough, Fuel Card Services also offer some more great products and services such as vehicle and asset tracking, daily vehicle checks app, MileageCount, MyServiceExpert, MyTransportPlanner and FleetCheck. Further information can be found here www.fuelcardservices.com/fleet-services/ For more information about Fuel Card Services please visit the website on www.fuelcardservices.com/CAI/
Fuel Card Services is the chosen fuel card provider for members of CAI. Members can save both time and money with savings of up to 10p per litre on diesel as well as saving time on administration. Fuel cards offer a secure method for payments; you control what products drivers are purchasing, and they help to cut fuel fraud. Furthermore, you’ll also never need to carry receipts again as you’ll receive HMRC compliant invoices that consolidate all transactions from the cards on your account. Access to MyFleetHub where CAI members will be able to manage all the Fuel Cards anytime anywhere. Here you can download up to 6 years of invoices and statements. More service, more savings, more security Our FREE Drivers Club App which enables drivers to locate their nearest pump avoiding any unnecessary detours and higher costs.
25
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
4 reasons why you should join TrustMark
Committed to Quality à Promoting competence and compliance à Recognising good customer service and trading practices à Providing quality assurance Consumer Protection à Give your customers confidence that they’re protected à Support and guidance for you and your customers if things don’t go to plan à Access to an independent resolution ombudsman to help resolve difficult complaints Raising your profile à Promote your business with a personalised profile page à Independent customer review service à Be eligible to join our national Trading Standards Approved Scheme Exclusive offers and more à Discounts with big names including Wickes, AA, EasyToolHire, ARMD, Fuel Card Services, Europcar, My Staff Shop & Octopus Electric Vehicles à Training opportunities including business finance & customer service packages à Come and talk to us to find out more
1
2
3
4
Scan the code to start your application today www.trustmark.org.uk/ tradespeople/ join-through-trustmark
Membership Benefits
27
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Membership Benefits
Benefits of Adelie Brand Ltd Peter Ellis, Director
Adelie Brand Ltd supply, embroider and print all types of work wear, corporate uniforms and Hi-Vis garments.
Initial turnaround time from placement of order and confirmation of design, is usually around 7 to 10 working days. However, once your logo has been set up, it is possible to work to a tighter deadline. If you have a last-minute requirement, we will work closely with you and confirm timings with a telephone conversation. As a partner supplier to CAI, we would like to offer anyone placing an order at the show, a free logo set up (normally £30.00 plus vat) and 5% off your first order. All future orders will benefit from a 10% discount to CAI members on supply of a membership number.
We are a family-owned business, with a small but very experienced and dedicated team ready to exceed all your expectations. Based in Plymouth, we supply companies throughout the UK with their work wear branded or plain, and carry out all embroidery and printing on site. Being a small independent company, we pride ourselves on the quality of our customer service and the garments we provide. We work closely with all our clients, and having our own digitising team on site means we can digitise your design ready for embroidery inhouse. Once digitised, the next step is to sample your design and send you a photo to make sure you are completely happy, before embroidering onto any garments. Your company branding and identity is very important, so it’s vital we get it right. With your approval, your design is kept on file, so all future orders will be embroidered with your approved design unless you decide to change it.
29
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Membership Benefits
Approved Business Billy Simms, Account Manager
Approved Business is a business-to-business platform connecting both users and businesses together quickly and successfully. With clear and precise company profiles as well as category specific quote forms, visitors are able to find what they are looking for at a click of a button. Their highly effective marketing and advertising opportunities are designed to save you time and money on your marketing strategy whilst delivering invaluable, real results. Their skilled editorial team and designers take the pressure away by enhancing your corporate image, mirroring your company website and designing a unique profile page, generating highly targeted traffic to your website. Approved Business offer the following: n Search, communicate and trade with over 150,000 UK companies n Receive instant quotes for over 100,000 different B2B products & services
n Interact with the outside world through social media & reviews n Promote your latest News through structured email software n Monitor your traffic through the very latest tracking software
CAI members are being offered a 12-month featured listing for a special price of £295 + VAT (usually £695). Included is full design of the business listing and support throughout the year. To obtain this exclusive offer, CAI members must quote the offer code on the Approved Business Enquiry Form. Offer code is located in the members only section of ‘My CAI’.
Contact Name: Billy Simms Telephone: 01474 557208
Email: info@approvedbusiness.co.uk Website: www.approvedbusiness.co.uk
30
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
CAI FOUNDATION DIPLOMA IN SIGNAL RECEPTION QUALIFIES YOU FOR A SKILLS CARD
Route 1
Route 2
Must have more than 2 years’ experience. Requirements: Electrical Safety for Signal Reception Systems Safe Working at Heights Certificate CITB Health Safety & Environment ‘Specialist Work at Height’ Test Work Based Assessment
Must have 2 years’ or less experience. Requirements: Electrical Safety for Signal Reception Systems Safe Working at Heights Certificate CITB Health Safety & Environment ‘Specialist Work at Height’ Test Work Based Assessment Essential Principles for Installers & Complete 2 of the following: Aerial & Satellite Installation (Basic) IRS Networks TCP/IP Networking & Connectivity Fibre Optics in Signal Distribution
Contact the CAI Training team on: 01923 803030 or email: amanda.ward@cai.org.uk for a quote.
Association For Audio Visual Professionals
Membership Benefits
call us now on 01923 803030 to discuss becoming a CAI member today!
Association For Audio Visual Professionals
32
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Help save lives by stopping falls!
Keep people safe while working at height FALLS FROM HEIGHT kill more people in the UK workplace than any other cause. On average, 38 people die in the UK every year and thousands are injured. Many of these injuries are life-changing and have far-reaching consequences for family, friends and colleagues. HELP PREVENT THESE FALLS… BECOME AN OFFICIAL SUPPORTER OF THE CHARITY • Support the Foundation’s aims and objectives • Demonstrate your commitment to height safety • Enhance your brand’s reputation for corporate social responsibility • Benet from the use of the Foundation’s logo • Share in the charity’s marketing activities • Connect with the Foundation’s initiatives and campaigns • Help shape the future of working at height • JOIN THE NO FALLS FOUNDATION SUPPORTER SCHEME
CHOOSE FROM THE FOLLOWING OPTIONS
SUPPORTER
SUPPORTER
SUPPORTER
SUPPORTER
SIGN UP TODAY AT nofallsfoundation.org Or for more information email info@nofallsfoundation.org
Charity launches No Falls Week Hannah Williams, Charity Manager, No Falls Foundation
A powerful campaign to promote safe working at height No Falls Week 13-17 May 2024
40 people lost their lives due to a fall from height in 2022-2023. Falls from height were responsible for 30% of all workplace deaths. Every year thousands of non-fatal falls take place – it’s estimated to be as many as 100 every day. Getting Involved in No Falls Week Employers can get involved in No Falls Week by organising various activities tailored to their specific industry and workforce. This may include hosting toolbox talks, workshops or safety demonstrations, distributing informational materials, and engaging in social media campaigns. The foundation provides a toolkit with resources and guidelines to assist organisations in planning and implementing activities during No Falls Week. By actively participating, employers not only contribute to the broader safety narrative but also demonstrate their dedication to the well- being of their employees. To sign up for No Falls Week or for more information visit https:/ nofallsweek.org/ get-involved/
The No Falls Foundation, the charity dedicated to the work at height sector is proud to be launching its first ever No Falls Week, a powerful campaign dedicated to promoting safe working at height. No Falls Week’s mission is simple yet crucial: to raise awareness about the importance of safe working at height. Taking place on May 13- 17, 2024, No Falls Week will provide the opportunity for organisations in all sectors to focus on work at height safety. Work at height encompasses all sectors including the audio visual, aerial and satellite industry. Our campaign aims to equip organisations with the knowledge, tools, and inspiration to prevent falls and ensure everyone that works at height comes down safely. Why No Falls Week matters Falls from height are consistently the leading cause of workplace fatalities in the U.K. The latest figures from the HSE show that
34
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
About the No Falls Foundation
Support The Foundation provides information and guidance, support and financial aid to those in need following a fall from height or injuries sustained from objects falling from height. If you or someone you know has been affected by a fall from height, get in touch via our website to see how we can support you. You can also download our support pack which covers a wide range of topics designed to help people following a fall from height. Finally, you can keep up with the latest information on No Falls Week as well as the charity’s other activities by subscribing to our newsletter. You can also spread the word about No Falls Week by sharing our resources and messages on social media using #NoFallsWeek to raise awareness among your peers and networks.
The No Falls Foundation is the charity devoted exclusively to the work at height sector. The Foundation is dedicated to preventing falls from height and helping people affected by the life-changing consequences of a fall. The No Falls Foundation, in partnership with stakeholders such as the Access Industry Forum (AIF), other trade associations and professional bodies as well as organisations who are committed to preventing falls from height and have signed up to the No Falls Supporter Scheme such as the CAI, has three distinct objectives: Education Preventing people falling from height through information and education about the risks of working at height and promoting safe working at height. Research Research into the causes of falls from height and how to prevent them.
For more information see Nofallsweek.org Nofallsfoundation.org
35
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
WRC2023: A Synopsis Peter Barnett Consultant
digital video compression techniques mean that many television programme channels can be carried in the same bandwidth as one analogue TV channel, and high definition television has become widespread. So what happened at WRC23? On the face of it, very little of immediate importance: broadcasting remains the primary use of the 470 MHz to 694 MHz band, but all European countries are now permitted to use this band for mobile services on a secondary basis. Secondary means its use must not cause harmful interference to the primary service, which leads us to look at coexistence. Coexistence Coexistence means the use of closely related frequencies for different types of service, resulting in both types of signal being presented to the receiver. An example of coexistence is the use of frequencies in the band below 694 MHz for TV, and in the band above 694 MHz, known as the upper adjacent band, for mobile services. When mobile services started using this band, there were many cases of harmful interference to TV, mainly arising from the mobile signals overloading masthead amplifiers and distribution amplifiers. To achieve successful coexistence, in many cases filtering had to be introduced to reduce mobile signals to acceptable levels that no longer caused problems for television.
Every four years or so, the International Telecommunications Union based in Geneva holds a World Radiocommunications Conference (WRC) to revise the Radio Regulations, an international treaty determining the way in which radio systems make use of the frequency spectrum. The most recent WRC, known as WRC23, was held in Dubai in November and December 2023, and was attended by around 3,500 delegates. Among many other topics, it considered the use of the UHF frequency bands used for terrestrial television and international mobile telecommunications (IMT). Most readers will be familiar with the changes to the UHF TV bands that have taken place in recent years: TV signals used to be found across the band from 470 MHz to 862 MHz, but the upper part of that range has now been vacated by TV transmissions, and has been taken over for use by mobile phone systems. The band used by TV is now limited to the range from 470 MHz to 694 MHz. Despite the reduction in bandwidth by nearly one half, we have seen a large increase in the number of programme channels. (Many of us can remember that prior to 1982 we had just three analogue TV channels to choose from!) This increase has been enabled principally by the transition from analogue to digital. Analogue television had several constraints that digital does not need, such as avoiding the use of adjacent RF channels, and requiring relatively high signal to noise ratios. Advanced
Television and mobile networks are fundamentally different from each other.
36
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
So what would happen to television reception if mobile base stations were allowed to operate in the television band in the UK? Clearly, mobile base stations could not operate on the same frequencies as TV transmitters without causing widespread loss of TV reception, and in many instances TV signals would prevent use of the mobile services. This is known as co-channel interference. If mobile base stations were to use only channels not in use for TV, then co-channel interference could in principle be avoided, but the problem of overloading amplifiers and receivers would still exist. But now, filtering would be vastly more difficult to implement: designing or manufacturing a filter that passes TV signals while reducing mobile base station signals that use interleaved channels would be practically impossible using conventional filtering components. There’s also the problem that many different combinations of channels are in use for TV across the country, so filters would either have
Television transmissions are designed to be received by high gain aerials mounted at roof height, while mobile networks are intended for reception by devices with low gain aerials at ground level, and even indoors. These requirements result in quite different networks: TV has about 80 main transmitters and a little over 1,000 relays, while mobile services use about 23,000 base station sites (source: Wikipedia). As television and mobile base station signals do not normally originate from the same site, it is quite likely that a television aerial is going to receive very strong mobile signals from a nearby base station while receiving much weaker signals from a relatively distant TV transmitter. Preventing strong mobile base station signals from disrupting TV reception can be achieved by using components that reduce base station signal levels, but do not significantly affect the levels of TV signals. This typically involves the use of aerials that are carefully designed to have reduced gain above 694 MHz, or low pass filters that also reduce signals above 694 MHz - or both!
37
CAI Feedback Spring 2024
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34 Page 35 Page 36 Page 37 Page 38 Page 39 Page 40 Page 41 Page 42 Page 43 Page 44 Page 45 Page 46 Page 47 Page 48 Page 49 Page 50 Page 51 Page 52 Page 53 Page 54 Page 55 Page 56 Page 57 Page 58 Page 59 Page 60 Page 61 Page 62 Page 63 Page 64 Page 65 Page 66 Page 67 Page 68 Page 69 Page 70 Page 71 Page 72 Page 73 Page 74 Page 75 Page 76 Page 77 Page 78 Page 79 Page 80 Page 81 Page 82 Page 83 Page 84 Page 85 Page 86 Page 87 Page 88 Page 89 Page 90 Page 91 Page 92 Page 93 Page 94 Page 95 Page 96 Page 97 Page 98 Page 99 Page 100 Page 101 Page 102 Page 103 Page 104 Page 105 Page 106 Page 107 Page 108 Page 109 Page 110 Page 111 Page 112 Page 113 Page 114 Page 115 Page 116 Page 117 Page 118 Page 119 Page 120 Page 121 Page 122 Page 123 Page 124 Page 125 Page 126 Page 127 Page 128 Page 129 Page 130 Page 131 Page 132 Page 133 Page 134 Page 135 Page 136Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker