June 1, 2007 With wireless technologies being incorporated into many new products, the scope for interior designers to create a new and uncluttered look has never been greater – and we suspect it will be some time yet until we have commercially available wireless power. Which is why we’re so bullish on this product. Since its first patents were filed in 1995, FlatWire Ready technology has been winning awards and converts for its unique approach to electrical wiring. The technology is now available for low voltage lighting, audio, video, voice and data and considerable attention has been paid to the development of installation accessories that make it easy for even a novice DIYer to install in minutes in four easy steps - Map it, Stick It, Click It, and Make it Disappear.
The new FlatWire Ready low voltage wall lighting system is UL-listed and includes a wide range of decorator-style sconces and complete Add-A-Light installation kits. The FlatWire Ready technology allows these low voltage lighting fixtures to be mounted anywhere on walls or ceilings and connected to an existing electrical outlet without drilling holes, pulling electrical wires or using extension cords. Unlike conventional "round" wire, FlatWire is easily installed and can create a virtually invisible wiring system.
Nearly 30 different FlatWire Ready lighting sconces are now available in a wide variety of decorator finishes and styles ranging from traditional to contemporary. Each FlatWire Ready Add-A-Light Low Voltage Kit accommodates up to two fixtures and includes connectors, a wall plate, transformer and 25 feet of low voltage FlatWire. The sconce fixtures use a 12-volt, 20-watt halogen bulb, which uses less energy than a 60-watt incandescent bulb but still gives about the same usable light output.
Using the Invisible Wire Solution is a non-invasive, low-cost alternative to cutting holes in walls to run new wires or install new outlets. Installation is an easy, four-step process that can be done safely in minutes by a do-it-yourselfer or professional. FlatWire can be placed on walls and ceilings, and when finished using standard concealing and painting techniques becomes virtually invisible.
"These FlatWire Ready low voltage lighting sconces and installation kits make it easier and more affordable than ever to add lighting safely and creatively, without having to compromise designs to accommodate existing wiring and outlets or pay for a costly and time-consuming professional rewire," said Robb Sexton, the inventor and president of Southwire's FlatWire Technologies Division. "FlatWire is a revolutionizing technology that lets us take control of the interior spaces and surfaces where we live, work and play, making life more efficient, comfortable and enjoyable."
Today's lifestyles rely on a growing number of devices requiring a wire connection, including lighting, flat panel televisions, home theaters, computers, gaming and more. Yet the layout of existing wire systems often makes it difficult to adapt rooms to new equipment without expensive in-wall rewiring or leaving unattractive cords exposed. Now the introduction of paper- thin FlatWire has made it possible to locate and connect devices where desired.
Because of its ease of use and flexibility, many new FlatWire-compatible products are being introduced. Southwire already offers other FlatWire Ready products, including cable and interconnects that can be used in a variety of low voltage lighting, audio, video, voice and data applications. Future applications for other wiring products are in development.