ELV Systems

What are Extra-Low Voltage Systems (ELV)? 

Extra-Low Voltage means the voltage of electricity supply is in a range that is low enough that it does not carry any high risk of any high voltage electrical shock(s).

The range of voltage that can be classified as Extra-Low Voltage is alternating current not exceeding 50 V AC and direct current not exceeding 120 V DC (ripple free). This is based on the standards as per EN 61558 or BS 7671.

The term extra-low voltage ("ELV") means an operating voltage not exceeding 50 Volt alternating current (a.c.) or 120 Volt ripple free direct current (d.c.) as defined in Australian / New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3000.

Therefore, Extra-Low Voltage Systems are any electrical systems that can operate on a low voltage with the voltage criteria as per above.

Key Characteristics

·        Low Voltage:The most defining feature is their safe, low-voltage operation, which reduces the risk of electric shock. 

·        Non-Core Systems:ELV systems are separate from the building's main, high-voltage electrical power system. 

·        Integrated Technologies:They are the "smart" components of a building, connecting devices and managing data. 

In this article, we are going to share more about different components of ELV systems.

Components of ELV Systems

Video Surveillance System:

Video-surveillance systems, also more commonly known as Closed Circuit Television, in short "CCTV", is made up of a network of cameras and recording systems that are connected to each other. This system would be classified as a ‘closed’ system as the system operates independently, unless it’s part of an ELV integrated system. A CCTV system is an effective way to monitor and secure any sensitive area(s).

Currently, cameras can be connected either wired or wireless to a CCTV system. CCTVs are an effective deterrence to any threats or area(s) that require constant offsite monitoring.

The key points in installing CCTV cameras is the positioning of the camera, to ensure that the camera can monitor the required area in its scope of view as well as the clarity of the video footage to ensure usability of the footage if necessary.

Access Control System – ACS:

Access control systems are a key feature of any security system hub that can secure, monitor and manage the access of staff in any type of building. With this system, staff can either be given access cards or using fingerprints(biometric), they are able to be granted access to various areas of the premises.

Nowadays, these systems ‘speak’ to each other wirelessly and usually connected to the local area network to reduce hard wiring cost and flexibility of the positioning of the system itself. At times, the access control system might be a part of a bigger integrated ELV system which allows central control of multiple different systems.

Public Address Voice Alarm System – PAVA:

A public address system is a system that allows an amplification of your voice through microphones and loudspeakers. Its purpose is to enhance the volume of human voice or any other sound for that matter.

The general alarm system allows remote control of alarms and flashing lights(beacons).

Combined, this system would serve a general use of relaying information or be used in the case of any emergency evacuations.

Fire Detection & Alarm System - FDAS:

Fire Alarm Control Panel is the brain of the system. Receives input from detectors, Manual call points & sends output to sounders/bells.

ELV fire alarm systems can provide early warning of fires in public and state facilities, allowing for prompt evacuation and reducing the risk of injury or death. These systems can also be integrated into building management systems to provide automatic fire suppression, such as sprinklers or fire extinguishers.

LAN and IP-BX System:

LAN stands for local-area network and is basically an interconnected computer network that usually covers a small area. This network of computer/devices can be connected to each other via physical wires called LAN cables or wirelessly (radio waves).

A telephone system is a group of interconnected telephones connected either via telephone lines or via LAN cables which then communicate using ‘Voice over Internet Protocol’ or in short VoIP.

Intrusion Alarm System - IAS

An intrusion alarm system — also known as a burglar alarm system — is an important security measure that can protect your business from unwanted intruders, theft, vandalism, and property damage.

Intrusion alarm systems provide several key benefits for businesses, such as increased safety for building occupants, faster response times to breaches, and lower insurance premiums. By investing in an intrusion alarm system, you are taking a proactive approach toward the safety and security of your property.

Nurse call system - NCS

A nurse call system is a healthcare technology solution in hospitals and nursing homes that allows patients to request assistance from staff by pressing a call button or using a pendant. These systems feature call buttons, receiving units at the nurse's station, and often wireless devices like pagers or watches to notify nurses in real-time. The primary goal is to ensure timely patient care, improve safety by reducing response times, and enhance staff efficiency through features like real-time alerts and reporting.

Trunk Radio System – TRS

A trunk radio system is a system whereby all available radio channels are placed in one single pool. When for example person A requires to transmit, a channel is automatically picked from the pool and used for person A’s transmission. Once the transmission is completed, the channel that person A was using will be placed back into the pool for others to use.

This system is highly beneficial as radio channels are limited by nature as for example, if all radio channels are taken up, we can’t physically or manually ‘create’ new channels. By using a trunk radio system, it’s more efficient in a sense there is a higher chance a user will get access to an available channel when required.

Home Automation System -  HAS:

Home automation is nothing but the mechanical management and administration of intelligent electronic appliances in a house. Sequencing pre-programmed smart devices to meet the unique needs of the residents is what a home automation system does.

In a home automation solution, devices can trigger each other without any human intervention. Furthermore, it allows users to schedule automated processes like switching the lights, controlling the temperature, calibrating the entertainment system, and more. What is home automation? It is an integrated system that makes life more convenient and helps in saving a variety of costs.

Fence Intrusion Detection System – FIDS

A fence intrusion detection system or FIDS for short is a security system whereby the key purpose of this system is to be able to detect any breaches that occur on any perimeter fences.

There are multiple sensors installed on different parts of the fence so whenever an intrusion is detected in a certain fenced area, if there is a CCTV nearby, the security personnel would be able to angle the CCTV to view the intrusion if possible. If necessary, a physical check on the fence is needed as well to ensure the security and integrity of the perimeter.

Building Management System - BMS:

Building Management Systems (BMS) that integrate and control various building functions. There are multiple sensors installed on different parts of the utility system. BMS Engineer control all utility system from single room. Building Management System also known as IBMS and BAS in Americas and the European countries.

IO Points are further categorized into analogue & digital, with suitable field devices. & sophisticated third party devices fixed in a building ranging from grounding an elevator to monitoring the water level of a sump to monitoring & controlling the properties of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning) equipment that is the Temperature, RH, Pressure.

Water Leak Detection (WLD) system:

Early Water Detection is essential in a lot of businesses, for example, data centers, industrial sites, offices, hotels, residential buildings, and more. With the right detection of water and early alert, costly water damage can be avoided. HW group offers several products that provide ideal solutions for Water Leak Detection (WLD) that are developed to protect your facility against any water damage that might threaten you.

Water Leak Detection uses a sensing cable that detects water along the entire cable length and a WLD device (WLD2 / NB-WLD / ...) that can communicate an alarm in case of water occurrence (a few drops anywhere on the cable is enough).

Master Clock System – MCS:

A master clock system is an interconnected system of clocks whereby slave clocks would take reference of time from a reference clock, also known as a master clock. These slave clocks would synchronize their time with the master clock. In this way, the time across both the master and slave clocks would be the same.

The use of master clock systems can be used in a variety of industries such as for the IT sector and military or anywhere that requires an extremely high degree of time accuracy.

Rodent Repellent System:

Rodent repellent is a device unit that emits ultrasonic sound waves to create an acoustically hostile environment that repels rodents. This helps to keep your Data Center free form rodents. Frequency of sound will induce rodents to move away from Data Center premises. As per research by University of Nebraska, Rodent Repellent is a proven device. Rodents under test could either leave the buildings or move to alternate non-ultrasonically treated areas.

As Data Center is the important business premises, we need to protect it from many risks.

Exit Stopper Door Alarms:

The highly effective Exit Stopper can serve as an inexpensive security device and help stop theft by alerting you to any unauthorized exits or entries through emergency exit doors. Standalone fire exit stopper alarm with one relay for integration with fire alarm system.

Professional Display & Signage

Professional display screens are high-quality, commercial-grade screens specifically designed for continuous use in business settings. Unlike consumer-grade TVs, they’re engineered to operate reliably for extended hours, often supporting 24/7 use without compromising on display quality or durability. Professional displays come with advanced features like remote content management, high brightness, and enhanced connectivity options, making them ideal for business environments.

ELV digital signage systems can provide real-time information, such as maps, directions, and event schedules, for tourists. This can improve convenience and enhance the overall experience by providing accurate and up-to-date information.

GRMS System:

Operates light management (on, off, or dimmer), automatic curtain openings (including blinds and rolling shutters), HVAC, TVs, and “do not disturb” or “make up room,” alerts based on the presence or absence of the guest in the room.

Mobile Phone and Wireless Distribution: 

Seamless connectivity, accessibility, and communication throughout a building.

Vehicle Tracking System

The GPS based Vehicle Tracking System comprises of an in-vehicle tracking system that consists of a GPS receiver unit, CDMA/GSM Modem, on-device Data Storage unit, other peripherals, and a web-based application. Through this system, the users will have the facility to monitor the movement and gather entire information of any vehicle.

IoT:

The IoT provides the connectivity that enables real-time monitoring and control of building systems, both on-site and remotely. With IoT-enabled BMS, building operators can monitor and control systems from anywhere, anytime, through a single user interface. This allows for greater efficiency, cost savings, and improved building performance.

In smart infrastructure, ELV systems, BMS, and IoT play a similar role in optimizing and monitoring the performance of critical infrastructure systems, such as energy grids, water supply networks, and transportation systems. These systems can be monitored and controlled in real-time to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and ensure reliability.

Role of IOT in improving ELV systems

The Internet of Things (IoT) can significantly improve ELV (Extra-Low Voltage) systems. IoT technology can connect and monitor ELV systems, providing real-time information, control, and automation capabilities.

Here are some ways in which IoT can improve ELV systems:

1.   Monitoring and Control: IoT devices, such as sensors and actuators, can control ELV systems, such as lighting, HVAC, and security systems. This can provide real-time information and allow for remote control of these systems, improving efficiency, comfort, and security.

2.   Predictive Maintenance: IoT technology can collect data from ELV systems and analyze it to predict when maintenance is needed. This can improve system reliability and reduce downtime, increasing efficiency and reducing costs.

3.   Energy Management: IoT technology can monitor and control energy consumption in ELV systems, reducing waste and improving energy efficiency. This can contribute to sustainability and reduce costs.

4.   Integration: IoT technology can integrate ELV systems with other building management systems, such as BMS (Building Management Systems), providing a more comprehensive and integrated solution.

5.   Real-time Analytics: IoT technology can collect and analyze real-time data from ELV systems, providing valuable insights into system performance and usage patterns. This can help to optimize system operation and improve decision-making.

Role of AI in ELV systems

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing an increasing role in ELV systems, including lighting control, building automation, audio and video systems, security systems, and more. AI can be used to improve the performance, efficiency, and intelligence of ELV systems in several ways:

1.   Predictive Maintenance: AI can analyze data from ELV systems to predict when maintenance or repairs will be required. This can reduce downtime and improve the overall reliability of the systems.

2.   Energy Efficiency: AI can optimize energy consumption in ELV systems, such as lighting control systems. For example, AI algorithms can analyze occupancy patterns and adjust lighting levels accordingly to reduce energy consumption.

3.   Real-Time Monitoring: AI can monitor ELV systems in real-time, providing early warning of potential issues and allowing for proactive maintenance and repairs.

4.   Automated Decision-Making: AI can automate decision-making processes in ELV systems, such as lighting or HVAC control. For example, AI algorithms can automatically analyze weather data and occupancy patterns to adjust heating and cooling levels.

5.   Improved User Experience: AI can improve the user experience of ELV systems, such as voice-controlled lighting control systems or personalized audio and video systems.

Role of cyber security for ELV systems

Cybersecurity is critical for ELV systems due to the sensitive nature of the systems and the potential consequences of a security breach. ELV systems are integrated into building management systems and often control essential functions, such as lighting, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and security systems. Therefore, a breach of an ELV system can result in unauthorized access, loss of sensitive information, or disruption of critical building functions.

Here are some ways in which cyber security is essential for ELV systems:

1.   Protecting Sensitive Information: ELV systems often contain sensitive information, such as building plans, access codes, and security camera footage. Cybersecurity measures are necessary to protect this information from unauthorized access or theft.

2.   Preventing Unauthorized Access: ELV systems can be vulnerable to hacking or unauthorized access, allowing attackers to control or disrupt building functions. Cybersecurity measures, such as firewalls, access control systems, and encryption, are necessary to prevent unauthorized access.

3.   Maintaining Building Functionality: A breach of an ELV system can result in the disruption of critical building functions, such as heating, cooling, lighting, and security systems. Cybersecurity measures are necessary to maintain the functionality of these systems and protect against disruptions.

4.   Compliance with Regulations: Many countries have regulations and standards for cybersecurity in buildings, such as the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and the United States Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS). ELV systems must comply with these regulations to protect sensitive information and the security of building functions.

Conclusion

Now that you understand more about ELV systems and their various components, SSA INTEGRATE provides ELV system integration services for the telecommunications, security, surveillance and oil & gas industries.

We have a team of highly experienced engineers and technicians who would be able to assist you in any challenging system integration issues.

Our service is that we can design, supply and commissioned full ELV integrated systems, complete with detailed testing and following the actual site condition to ensure full functionality before handing over the project. Also we provide Information Security Management System audit as per ISO/IEC 27001: 2022.

Due to our experience in installing explosion proof systems, we are well versed in working and installing ELV systems in hazardous environments.