A completely new range of switched sockets, full of customer benefits, is being introduced to the EATON MEM 250 Memstyle socket-outlet range to address changing needs in the marketplace, such as the increasing use of IT and electronic based equipment.
Among the enhanced features incorporated into the new range are:-
· A choice of rocker positions - outboard or inboard
· Two or more earth terminals as standard
· Non-standard/clean earth sockets for dedicated electronic equipment
· An alternative range of single-pole switched socket-outlets
· Metal rockers to complement all the metal face-plates
· Strengthened face plates
· Around 800 new socket variants throughout the range of styles and finishes
· A new slim back profile giving more wiring space within the back box
The changes are applied across the range, which includes INTRA white moulded accessories, AURA flush metal plate accessories, Ultra flat metal plate and XTRA surface metalclad products. Standard features of the socket-outlets include a three-pin shutter mechanism, double-pole switching, large backed-off terminals which accept three 4mm2 conductors, clear dual terminal markings and the use of a single screwdriver for wiring and fixing.
Outboard rockers have been introduced to reduce the risk of users accidentally operating the wrong switch and to make switching easier for the elderly and infirm. However, traditional inboard rockers continue to be available.
Two or more earth terminals, which were previously offered as an optional extra, are now standard on Memstyle double pole socket-outlets. This means that on a final circuit the looped earth conductors can be taken to separate terminals; if one should work loose, earthing integrity will be maintained through the second connection.
Non-standard plugs and socket-outlets Where you need to ensure a controlled clean earth supply or restrict the use of the socket, the non-standard socket is the solution. This will ensure only dedicated equipment can be plugged in to the supply. The non-standard round earth pin aperture ensures that other office equipment such as; kettles, office cleaning equipment etc. cannot be inadvertently connected and contaminate the clean earth supply.
Clean earth socket-outlets are also available both as standard BS 1363 and non-standard BS 5733 devices. These have two terminals, for connection of the protective earth conductor, and two separate 'clean earth' terminals for 'functional' earthing of the connected equipment via the earth pin of the plug. This is unique to the EATON MEM range and ensures than even in a clean earth environment full compliance with the IEE wiring regulation 607 on earthing is achieved
Single-pole switching is now available as an alternative to EATON MEM 250's new double-pole switched socket-outlets. These products are available with inboard rockers and a single large earth terminal. They are, however, available as single-gang or twin-gang units across the entire EATON MEM 250 range of plate styles.
Metal rockers on metal plate accessories are another new development. Available as an alternative to the normal moulded rockers they introduce an additional 'quality' feel to any metal plate finish including Georgian and Victorian finishes, modern stainless steel and highly polished finishes.
"This represents the most significant development to our socket-outlet range for many years" says Frank Sayers, Product Manager at EATON MEM 250. "In recent years we have tended to introduce features such as large, backed-off terminal screws, dual terminal markings and additional earth terminals as requirements arose. In reviewing our total offering we have been able to take a more rational approach to the way in which these features are offered across the entire range."