Alpha.com - News Releases

Alpha Battery Solutions Offer Unmatched Versatility and Optimum Power Performance

Fri, 04 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 4, 2012 -- Alpha Industrial Power (AIP), industrial-grade power solutions provider and a member of The Alpha Group, offers a full line of Nickel Cadmium and Lead Acid batteries to keep critical systems operational under even the most demanding circumstances.

“Alpha battery solutions provide unlimited flexibility and can be used in virtually any power application,” said Sam Ayoubi, Vice President of Sales for AIP. “From security to transportation to telecommunications, our clients operate vital systems that cannot afford to fail. With over 35 years’ experience, Alpha batteries have earned their reputation as durable and consistent.”

Providing a versatile and reliable power source capable of operating under the most extreme temperatures, Alpha’s NiCad batteries are ideal for providing backup power to the most critical applications. The NiCad Clear Case is a high-performance storage battery offering superior protection against shocks or vibrations and with a wide operating temperature range of -40 to 50°C. The NiCad Translucent Case is manufactured with four different discharge ranges to accommodate varying power requirements and is ideally suited for UPS, railway and telecom applications. Finally, the NiCad Range Low maintenance features a low pressure vent and pocket plate design with minimal maintenance requirements to provide unmatched dependability for critical power systems.

Alpha also offers a broad line of flooded and valve-regulated lead acid batteries built with a 20-year design life and capacity ranges from 20 to 3000Ah. The AlphaCell OPzS and OGi battery lines are flooded batteries with low self-discharge and minimal maintenance, ideal for the telecommunication, utility and transportation industries. The SMU Series are valve-regulated and designed to support all types of power applications including UPS and switchgear. These batteries feature Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) technology for enhanced durability and security.

Alpha battery solutions are currently available worldwide and can be custom-configured to support a variety of power applications. For more information about Alpha’s NiCad and Lead Acid battery solutions, visit www.alpha.com.

Alpha Industrial Power, a member of The Alpha Group and a division of Alpha Technologies, provides innovative, industrial grade powering solutions through a diverse product line of large-scale battery systems, chargers, and UPS's. Applications include power generation facilities, substations, electrical utilities, transportation systems, communication networks and other enterprises with unique powering.

The Alpha Group represents a global alliance of independent companies that share a common philosophy – create world-class powering solutions for communication, commercial, industrial and renewable energy markets.

###

For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Kubis
Marketing Communications
kkubis@alpha.com
# 360.392.2263

Alpha Industrial Power Secures Critical Seismic Testing Certifications

Tue, 01 May 2012 07:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

May 1, 2012 -- Industrial-grade power solutions provider, Alpha Industrial Power (AIP), is proud to have secured extreme seismic testing certifications from the Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD). These coveted certifications are awarded when systems meet established reliability standards to guard against damage in the event of a major earthquake.

“Alpha products are used worldwide and must be ready to perform in unpredictable climates and demanding environments,” said Sam Ayoubi, AIP Vice President of Sales. “Passing the rigorous OSHPD seismic tests, the highest certification of its kind, ensures that Alpha power solutions will deliver reliable, uninterrupted performance through extreme conditions such as earthquakes.”

To date, both Alpha’s 24V and 125V power systems have achieved OSHPD seismic certification. Each system consists of an industrialized battery rack, NiCad batteries and an intelligent battery charging system. The 24V power system is a 2-step rack, while the 125V power system is a 2-tier rack.

To obtain OSHPD certification, the Alpha power systems are subject to the Alpha Seismic and Environmental Test (ASET). With a wide range of testing capabilities, ASET can test products for high-level events, such as earthquakes, or for low-level events, such as transportation drop and vibration. Custom test programs and detailed reports verify that systems are ready to perform under any extreme circumstances.

Seismic testing is conducted using a shake table, a device intended to simulate ground movements that would occur during an earthquake. The table utilizes a 14,000 lb. dynamic force Servo Hydraulic Shaker and has a peak velocity of 45 inches per second. The products are also subject to a post-test, guaranteeing that the structural integrity and functionality of the product remain intact.

Seismic certifications are now in place for several Alpha products and provide reliability assurance for its worldwide customer base. For questions regarding Alpha’s OSHPD certified products or the ASET test, please visit www.alpha.com.

###

For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Kubis
Marketing Communications
kkubis@alpha.com
# 360.392.2263

Alpha ACS Series Helps Customers Take Charge of Industrial Powering Needs

Wed, 25 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 25, 2012 -- Alpha Industrial Power (AIP), an innovator in industrial-grade power solutions and a member of The Alpha Group, offers a new and flexible, highly efficient battery charging solution with the addition of the Alpha Charging System High Performance (ACS-HP) Series.

The ACS-HP Series is capable of charging multiple types of stationary batteries, primarily for industrial, petrochemical and utility applications. The series combines an extremely low ripple output and greater than 93% efficiency to make for lower operating costs. Five hot-swappable Cordex 4.4kW rectifiers are stored in a compact 4RU shelf, providing immense power in a compact space.

"The ACS-HP Series provides efficiency, flexibility and reliability in one system," said Sam Ayoubi, AIP Vice President of Sales. "It supports wide input ranges, from 187-312Vac single phase to 208-480Vac
3 phase, and systems are expandable with power options up to 800A. In addition, the Cordex monitoring and control package is unparalleled in today’s market."

The Cordex monitoring and control package provides complete access to battery management, data logging, daily statistics and charger system control. The CXC touch screen or Ethernet connection and internet browser enable simple adjustment and control, regardless of local or remote setup.

"In one integrated package, we are able to offer remote system control, extremely high power density, wide input range and hot swappable modularity, all while maintaining a small footprint,” said Ayoubi. “It is a great example of efficiency in all elements of design: form, function, engineering and performance."

The ACS-HP Series is currently available to Alpha’s global customer base. For more information about the ACS-HP Series, visit www.alpha.com/acshp.

###

For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Kubis
Marketing Communications
kkubis@alpha.com
# 360.392.2263

Alpha Technologies Releases OPS Configurator for Renewable Energy Projects

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 10, 2012 -- Alpha Energy is pleased to announce the launch of the Optimum Power Solutions (OPS) Renewable Energy Configurator, a customizable tool to size photovoltaic power systems.

The OPS Configurator is a simple, straightforward program which enables users to design the optimal photovoltaic system to fit location, loads of up to 200 watts and reliability requirements, all while being sensitive to budgetary parameters. This tool can pinpoint the users Solar Energy Resource at a specified location and tailor the system appropriately in order to maximize reliability and load.

“The new OPS Configurator will enable our distribution partners to design Alpha-engineered Solar Power Solutions anywhere in the world in a matter of minutes,” said Gord Petroski, Alpha Energy Business Development. “By comparison, this process can take an engineer several hours to design a comparable system and even longer to source the components and provide an integrated solution. With the OPS Configurator, our customers can expect quality solutions within minutes, backed by a company with over 35 years’ experience in the power industry.”

The OPS Configurator was developed to provide an immediate solution to the equipment requirements of today’s renewable energy customers and is used in a variety of applications including sample loads, camera security systems, lighting and Wi-Fi transmitters. Alpha systems
are configured using only best-in-class products with industry leading warranties of up to five years.
The OPS Configurator is live and initial response to Beta tests has been overwhelmingly positive.

For customers with an established Alpha account, the OPS Configurator is easily accessible through Alpha’s website at www.alpha.com.

Alpha Energy, is a full-service engineering and project development company for turnkey renewable energy technologies and photovoltaic systems for commercial, institutional and remote (off-grid) applications. Alpha Energy is a division of Alpha Technologies, a world-leading Total Power Solutions provider for more than 35 years. Alpha Energy is a member of The Alpha Group.

###

For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Kubis
Marketing Communications
kkubis@alpha.com
# 360.392.2263

Alpha Helps Keep Systems Operational During Severe Storm Season

Tue, 03 Apr 2012 07:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 3, 2012 -- Alpha Technologies Services, Inc., maintenance and repair provider for The Alpha Group, continues to demonstrate exceptional disaster response and customer service in the wake of an abnormally severe storm season across the United States.

Hurricane Irene proved to be the most destructive storm of 2011, leaving a trail of floods and wind damage after making landfall near Little Egg Inlet, NJ, and pounding the Carolina coasts. Gusts averaged 40-60 mph and measured more than 11 inches of rainfall in some areas. Standing water and fallen trees can wreak havoc on the power grid and adversely affect the cable and telecommunications networks. Amidst these challenges, Alpha provided immediate replacement of crucial, damaged equipment to help keep critical networks operational.

“Our response time was immediate,” said Vince Nardini, District Sales Manager for Alpha’s Depot Repair Service Network. “Given the extensive damage following Hurricane Irene, the demand for repair and replacement of equipment immediately doubled. Despite the increased demand, our depots were prepared and delivered quality, on-time repairs.”

Alpha’s sales and customer service staff quickly responded by identifying and prioritizing customer needs while the Route Service Team arranged to pick up the damaged equipment. Once it reached the depot, the damaged equipment was put on priority status and technicians immediately began the repair and quality assurance procedures. Upon completion, the equipment was promptly returned to the customer.

Alpha’s Depot Repair Services furnish state-of-the-art diagnostic services, repair and refurbishment, Fiber Optic RF Line Gear, Headend Equipment, UPS Systems and test equipment. Offering full warranty on all repairs, Alpha’s Depot Repair Services performs detailed testing, helping ensure that all repaired equipment meets or exceeds original factory standards.

Alpha’s regional repair depots are located in various regions throughout the USA, ensuring easy and convenient accessibility. Alpha also offers pickup and delivery services, as well as popular advanced replacement programs.

For more information on Alpha Technologies Services, please visit www.alpha.com.

Alpha Technologies Services Inc. , a member of The Alpha Group, provides maintenance, repair and warranty services for all Alpha Group products. Alpha's repair depots, located around the world, are state of the art repair and development laboratories are designed for product repair and refurbishment, product improvement, research and modification, to assist with our customer's specific needs. Additionally, trained Alpha field service engineers can be dispatched 24/7 in specially equipped and stocked Alpha service vehicles to perform routine system maintenance or emergency repair service.

###

For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Kubis
Marketing Communications
kkubis@alpha.com
# 360.392.2263

Protect Critical Power Equipment with Alpha's New Internal Security Solutions

Thu, 29 Mar 2012 07:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 30, 2012 -- Alpha Technologies, Inc., world leading power solutions provider, announces the expansion of its power system security solutions to help secure and protect critical hardware from theft, vandalism and other demanding environmental conditions. Alpha’s internal security solutions now include both the AlphaSecure Battery Security Device and the AlphaSecure XM2 Security Wrap.

The AlphaSecure Battery Security Device is a custom-fitted framework that secures the batteries to the equipment enclosure. This device offers enhanced security and functionality due to its dual custody (separate keys) for the main enclosure door and battery tray, ensuring that only designated personnel can unlock the device. The battery locking mechanism is hinged to allow the bracket to remain attached to the battery tray for easy accessibility and maintenance.

The AlphaSecure XM2 Security Wrap is a steel-constructed, powdercoated framework wrap that secures the power supply to the equipment shelf. Its fitted, wrap-around design locks the power supply in place and the framework bolts to the enclosure shelf with enhanced security screws. Securing the power supply directly to the enclosure provides increased protection against theft, vandalism and movement of the power supply caused from natural disasters or other extreme conditions.

“These security measures allow supervisors to maintain enhanced control and security of the equipment by limiting access to keys that are used to fasten the actual devices,” said Jim Heidenreich, VP of Product Management. “In addition, enclosures can be ordered pre-configured with the security devices in place, or they can be retrofitted to fit existing enclosures already in the field.”

“This product allows our customers to add another level of protection and reliability to their network, and helps minimize unnecessary and costly truck rolls,” said Jim Heidenreich, VP Product Management.

For more information on Alpha security solutions, please visit www.alpha.com.

Alpha Technologies Inc. develops power conversion, protection and standby products for telecommunications and broadband cable industries, including custom, application-specific power solutions. In addition to product development, Alpha Technologies provides a comprehensive range of installation and maintenance services to support its global customer base. Alpha Technologies is a member of The Alpha Group of companies.

###

For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Kubis
Marketing Communications
kkubis@alpha.com
# 360.392.2263

Alpha's New Smart-Pack Provides Critical Inverter Module Protection

Wed, 07 Mar 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 7, 2012 -- Alpha Technologies, world leading power solutions provider, announces the Smart-Pack Dual Inverter Module Case, capable of housing up to two Alpha Power Supply Inverter Modules in a single, durable, easy-to-transport protective case.

A properly functioning Inverter Module is critical for a power supply to provide backup power. To minimize downtime and keep broadband communication systems operational during service regimens, Inverter Module replacement needs to be quick and efficient. When unprotected, Inverter Modules are extremely susceptible to damage due to the exposed circuit board and other critical components.

Alpha’s Dual IM Case offers technicians a rugged, lightweight case manufactured specifically to house Alpha Inverter Modules, while providing additional compartments to store other spare components. The Dual IM Case has a strong, hard exterior with a soft cushion interior to protect the Inverter Modules from damage in transport. In addition, the pink interior cushioning is indicative of its antistatic characteristic, which minimizes the chances of static electricity-induced damage to circuit boards.

To avoid unnecessary truck rolls, technicians can now keep an emergency supply of Inverter Modules and other spare components in the maintenance truck to be used in the event of unexpected component failures while in the field. Because it houses Inverter Modules for both Alpha XM2-HP and XM3-HP power supplies, customers have the ability to customize their case with specific components as needed to best fit their network.

“This product allows our customers to add another level of protection and reliability to their network, and helps minimize unnecessary and costly truck rolls,” said Jim Heidenreich, VP Product Management.

The Smart-Pack Dual IM Case is now shipping to Alpha’s worldwide customer base.

###

For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Kubis
Marketing Communications
kkubis@alpha.com
# 360.392.2263

Alpha Technologies Expands National Service Footprint with New Repair Center in Florida

Tue, 28 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 28, 2012 -- Alpha Technologies Inc. is pleased to announce the continued expansion of its industry-leading Depot Repair Services network. In an effort to provide even faster and more efficient service to its customer base, Alpha Depot Repair Services recently opened a facility in Jacksonville, Florida.

From this new and strategic location, Alpha will provide full repair services to both Alpha and non-Alpha outside plant and critical facility equipment. The Jacksonville facility compliments Alpha’s other regional service depots and will specifically cater to the needs of customers in the southeastern region of the United States.

“In addition to serving all traditional outside plant product, we’re excited about Alpha’s additional capacity to provide full repair and refurbishment services of digital headend and fiber equipment at our new Florida facility” said Dave McCarty, Alpha Technologies Manager of Service Operations. “Florida’s unique weather conditions are hard on network equipment and our staff is full prepared to tackle all that this demanding environment produces.”

Alpha’s Depot Repair Services furnish state-of-the-art diagnostic services, repair and refurbishment of all Alpha and third-party equipment including Cable Power Supplies, Fiber Optic RF Line Gear, Headend Equipment, UPS Systems and Test Equipment. Offering full warranty on all repairs, Alpha’s Depot Repair Services performs detailed testing, helping ensure that repaired equipment meets or exceeds original factory standards.

Alpha’s regional repair depots are strategically positioned in numerous locations across the country ensuring easy and convenient accessibility. Alpha also offers pick up and delivery services as well as popular advanced replacement programs.

###

For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Kubis
Marketing Communications
kkubis@alpha.com
# 360.392.2263

Alpha Improves Network Efficiency by Extending the Reach of Network Power

Tue, 07 Feb 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 7, 2012 -- Alpha Technologies, Inc., power solutions provider, introduces the Alpha Power Booster, an HFC Voltage Booster intended to improve network efficiency and decrease network cable loss.

In most broadband networks, system voltage drops as you approach the last mile of plant. To address this challenge, Alpha has developed the Alpha Power Booster (APB) to help extend the power reach of an existing network. The APB was created to improve network efficiency and reduce life cycle cost by eliminating lightly loaded power supplies at the end of long amplifier cascades. The APB accomplishes this by boosting end-of-line voltages, which allows deeper penetration of existing HFC networks.

The APB has a high-efficiency auto transformer that is configurable for a 90Vac or 60Vac output voltage. It comes standard in a water-tight enclosure that can be wall or strand mounted. The APB is most ideally suited where line voltage has dropped to between 65 to 75 volts and where downstream current draw is less than 7Amps. The use of an APB is dependent on the presence of an existing power supply in the network to help regulate its own power and also use the battery backup capabilities. However, it can also sometimes provide a viable alternative to adding another complete power system.

“For less than half the cost of adding a complete new power system, an APB is a great alternative to extend the reach of the network,” said Jim Heidenreich, VP Product Management. “It is ideal for use in rural applications to reach the last mile or to extend beyond where utility sources currently exist.”

The APB is currently shipping, and available to Alpha’s worldwide customer base.

###

For more information, please contact:
Kathleen Kubis
Marketing Communications
kkubis@alpha.com
# 360.392.2263

Mitra Innovations S.A. Becomes Alpha Technologies S.A.

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wavre, Belgium- January 16, 2012 -- Effective January 1, 2012, Belgium-based power solutions manufacturer Mitra Innovations S.A. has changed its name to Alpha Technologies S.A. Mitra, one of Europe’s pioneering innovators in power conversion technologies, joined The Alpha Group in 2010. The change of name signals the next step in the integration of the Company within the world wide Alliance. It brings significant benefits for the various stakeholders.

Fred Kaiser, Chairman of The Alpha Group, said: “We have been very pleased with Mitra’s progress and fit since the acquisition. Becoming part of The Group has opened up new channels and markets for Mitra’s quality products and also provided Mitra’s customers with unbridled access to The Alpha Group’s extensive product portfolio. By adopting the Alpha branding we are making it easier for the market to recognize and do business with our Alpha family.”

“We are very happy with the further integration of Alpha Technologies SA into The Alpha Group,” comments Sandy Anderson, Mitra’s CEO. “For our customers, the change of name underlines the Alpha Group’s commitment to provide our products and services globally over the long term.”

“Today we are privileged to supply products to and service a large portfolio of international customers. Our change of name emphasises that they are trading with a member of The Alpha Group, a global alliance of companies recognised for their leadership in technology and customer service. It reinforces the understanding that those customers have access to the entire portfolio of products and services of The Group through a single point of contact and gives them increased confidence in the support and strength of their supplier.”

The Alpha Group The Alpha Group represents a global alliance of independent companies that share a common philosophy, to create world-class powering solutions for communication, commercial, industrial and renewable energy markets. Members of the Alpha Group include Alpha Technologies Inc., Alpha Technologies Ltd., Alpha Technologies S.A., AlphaTec Ltd., Altair Advanced Industries Inc., Alpha Energy, OutBack Technologies, Alpha Industrial Power and Alpha Technical Services.

Mitra Innovations is a pioneer in the field of power technology. The company designs, develops and manufactures highly reliable standard and custom power conversion solutions, remote monitoring modules and highly reliable integrated power conversion systems.

###

For more information, please contact:
Dave Boroevich
Vice President of Marketing
Alpha Technologies Ltd.
604-422-4489
david.boroevich@alpha.ca

Emmanuel Orban
Director of Marketing
Alpha Technologies SA
eorban@alphatechnologies.be
Tel: +32 10 438501