Combining all of an organization’s physical and virtual components is system integration. Machine systems, computer hardware, inventories, and other elements are the physical components. Data stored in databases, software, and apps make up the virtual components. The primary emphasis of system integration is integrating all of these components to operate as a single system.

System integration is critical for both business-to-business communication and internal corporate collaboration. It is what we should perform regularly.

What Is System Integration

In its broadest sense, system integration is the act of linking several subsystems into a single, more extensive system that works as a whole. When it comes to software, system integration connects disparate IT services, methods, and software to make them all operate together functionally.

The primary motivation for businesses to adopt system integration is to increase efficiency and quality improvement of their operations. The idea is to use integration to make the organization’s multiple IT systems “speak to each other,” speeding up information flows and lowering operating expenses. However, system integration isn’t just for connecting an organization’s internal systems; it also secures its external partners.

Types of System Integration

There are various types of system integration, and the size and scope of integration projects range from simple to massive and complex. Here are some examples:

Business-to-Business Integration

This type of integration enables businesses to easily exchange data and knowledge, for example, across a supply chain, reducing redundancy.

Legacy System Integration

Legacy system integration enables organizations to connect legacy systems with newer, more modern designs.

Big Data Integration

Integrating data origination from disparate business systems, various sources, and different formats is critical in any big-data project. It enables the collection of all data into a single view for reporting and analysis.

Third-party System Integration

In many cases, developing custom software is not feasible. Third-party software products, which need to integrate with other systems and applications already in the organization, may be used instead.

Cloud Services Integration

It is the process of connecting various applications, systems, and databases to be integrated into cloud services, allowing multiple devices to access them over a network or the internet.

Advantages of System Integration

System integration is a critical component in digital organizational transformation. Among the advantages are:

Enhanced Productivity

Without adequate integration, it forces the workers to manually enter data into numerous programs rather than provide value to the process. Data is exchanged automatically between systems through system integration, resulting in smoother workflows, improved process efficiency, and lower error margins.

Improved Decision-making

Another benefit of centralizing data in one platform or system is using real-time, accurate data beyond conventional organizational boundaries, enabling a 360° perspective of a business. Organizations can develop and save expenses by making better, more accurate judgments.

Alternative to Replacing Legacy Systems

Some businesses may rely on systems far past their end-of-life yet remain irreplaceable. Integrating data from historical systems into newer methods enables companies to continue working with existing designs while advancing digital transformation.

Capability to Monitor Company Performance

Organizations cannot analyze data since data is housed in disparate systems and applications, resulting in data silos. Gathering all data in a centralized system enhances data analysis, ensures consistency, and raises the data’s value.

Disadvantages of System Integration

Although system integration is a fantastic solution for several challenges associated with employing multiple applications, it does have a few drawbacks.

Complicated Updating

Your IT team will likely make some extreme memories regarding system overhaul. Integration does not combine many projects into one but instead integrates them. The interaction is erratic and tiresome.

Significant Financial Outlay

Even if you can obtain a fantastic price on system support, you must pay for each software separately. Occasionally, prices are so exorbitant that an entrepreneur may begin to consider bespoke software development rather than system integration.

Concerns About Security

Having several projects is preferable to a single integrated system in terms of security. When you go through system integration, any misrepresentation or even hack might acquire access to complete your information rather than just a portion of it.

Because of the pathways via which information flows from one application to the next, system integration renders your data more vulnerable than it was previously.

Methods of System Integration

The following are the main categories of typical system integration methods:

Vertical Integration

The system components are merged using the vertical integration approach by constructing functional “silos” that start at the bottom and way up. It is a comparatively straightforward way that only needs a small number of systems, fewer than two. However, it is also highly inflexible and more challenging to maintain in the long run because any new functionality will require its own functional “silo.” Even yet, this strategy works well for creating basic integrations that need to address a single function.

Star Integration

A system with star integration is one in which each subsystem links to other subsystems via point-to-point links. It provides additional capability, but as the number of connected systems grows, so does the number of integrations, and integration management becomes extremely difficult. As an analogy to “Spaghetti coding,” Star Integration is often referred to as “Spaghetti Integration.”

Point to Point Integration

Because only two system components are involved, one may argue that a point-to-point integration or point-to-point link is not a simple system integration. Even though it lacks the intricacy of “real” system integration, it integrates two systems to work together. Typically, this type of point-to-point integration handles one function without complicated business logic. These sorts of point-to-point connections are available as productized, “out of the box” integration modules for the most common IT systems in many cloud-based apps.

Common Data Format Integration

Integration of disparate IT systems frequently necessitates transforming data from one system to a different data format required by the receiving system. If each transformation must be performed on a system-by-system basis, the number of data transformations skyrockets and becomes a high-maintenance operation. The standard data format strategy allows each system to do only one data conversion to address the issue. As a result, the number of needed data transformations is only as large as the number of subsystems.

Horizontal Integration

There is an employed distinct subsystem as a standard interface layer between all subsystems in horizontal integration. This layer refers to as an Enterprise Service Bus (ESB). This technology enables each subsystem to communicate with all other subsystems attached to the standard interface layer via a single interface. This strategy has the advantage of allowing any subsystem to be updated. Also, even replaced without redo the interfaces of any other methods.

Challenges of System Integration

There is no system integration rocket science, but several obstacles make it difficult for all firms to implement. According to some research, up to 70% of all integration attempts fail in one way or another. It is more likely to happen with big projects, but even relatively simple system integration initiatives might have issues.

The majority cause of failures is project and change management challenges. It is not by the selected integration technology or technical difficulties with the systems in the scope.

The following are the most common causes for system integration project failure:

Scarcity of Skilled Resources

System integration needs specialized knowledge that is difficult to acquire by. It is not enough to have outstanding integration technology if the necessary expertise is unavailable. Most businesses struggle to locate and keep individuals with the required system integration capabilities.

The easiest way to address the issue is to work with an external third-party supplier who can bring the necessary integration experience to the table and supply the integration technology.

Changes in the Integration Landscape Constantly

The more time the project takes, the more serious this problem gets. Time is the key in managing this risk; keeping integration initiatives brief increases the project’s success percentage. Furthermore, the success of the systems integration depends on an agile working approach that can adapt to change both during and after the project.

Lack of Responsibility

When integrating many distinct subsystems, it is easy to lose track of who is responsible for the integration’s success. Several stakeholders (e.g., system owners, suppliers, etc.) may be in the equation, none of whom is in charge of the complete system integration. They care about and handle their side of integration to the best of their abilities, but they will not travel beyond their zone.

However, there is usually more than one person involved in integration. As a result, when something goes wrong, the scenario quickly devolves into finger-pointing and blaming the other parties rather than someone “owning” the integration. Suppose a single party manages the system integration project. That party is also (typically contractually) accountable for the project’s success, and there is no doubt about accountability.

What Is the Role of a System Integrator

A Systems Integrator (SI) is a firm that specializes in implementing, organizing, planning, scheduling, testing, enhancing, and occasionally managing IT systems in broad terms in the IT sector. They deliver massive IT projects (e.g., ERP projects) while addressing the multiple vendors involved.

In terms of system integration, however, the responsibility of the systems integrator is limited to facilitating data integrations between the end customer’s various current systems as described in the project scope. It can range from essential internal point-to-point connections to extremely complicated many-to-many integrations with internal and external parties.

In this equation, the systems integrator’s function is typically to design, develop, and test the integration solution. However, the systems integrator’s responsibility may also involve continual management of the keys and contacting other parties to enable connections with them. Most significantly, the systems integrator brings integration knowledge to the table that the customer would otherwise lack internally (or has a shortage of available internal resources at hand).

Why Is Business-to-Business Integration More Important Than Ever

Business-to-business integration is not a new notion by any means. Nearly 50 years ago, several IT-driven firms began executing B2B Integration projects. Perhaps, by now, some of them have even completed these projects.

B2B integration is the process of integrating, automating, and optimizing business operations that exist outside of a company’s firewall. While these processes may differ significantly, they all have one thing in common: integrating such external business processes provides the firm with a long-term competitive edge. Real-time visibility, enhanced automation, inventory optimization, and improved customer satisfaction are examples of such benefits.

Businesses now realize that having robust software solutions is insufficient. They may have the most feature-rich software applications behind their firewall or in the cloud, but they cannot successfully manage their end-to-end supply chain process without suitable B2B connection and accompanying capabilities.

While B2B Integration originated with major organizations demanding ways to receive business information, it swiftly adopted EDI (Electronic Data Interchange) standards and then to other newer technologies. Nowadays, it appears that every new program includes an API that allows it to integrate with other applications. However, integrating such APIs with other systems remains, and most businesses do not know.

Integration of the Legacy System

For decades, most operating businesses have some old, legacy IT systems still in use and running on their on-premise servers. These systems may be critical to their core operation and cannot replace a more current IT system. Integration with such vintage systems may be complex since they may be devoid of ready-made interface capabilities.

Most systems, however, may write or read information into a file folder that another system can access. For example, via an FTP connection, but sometimes the only option to integrate such subsystems with other subsystems is to write and read data directly in their database.

A contemporary integration solution must also be capable of dealing with these types of integration scenarios. Cloud-based iPaaS solutions often rely on local, on-premise adapters to deliver the functionality required for these interfaces. Such adapters serve as an active local interface between the passive legacy system or its database and the iPaaS solution hosted in the cloud.

As needed, additional business rules and other functionality related to legacy system integration will be handled in the iPaaS service, keeping such business logic centralized and straightforward to maintain. As a result, the customer doesn’t have to make any costly changes to its old IT systems. The system integrator may supply the integration logic outside of the business firewall.

Why Should Systems Be Integrated

When a company expands, they add new processes, or existing ones may become more complex. The IT landscape may struggle to keep up with the organization and its growing workforce. Different business functions may eventually work in separate systems that do not communicate or share data. As a result, processes become inefficient and costly.

Instead, integrating the business processes on a single platform can bring together functions along the business process chain. Because of the improved flow of information, this will improve productivity and operational quality. However, system integration can be complex.

Failed integration initiatives can have far-reaching effects, even leading to mergers faltering over IT system integration. The most typical integration difficulty involves two or more parties collaborating. It may result in hesitant data sharing and operations outsourcing, a lack of clear communication, confusing duties, debates over where functionality locates, and a lack of responsibility. Other difficulties include:

1. Transformations in the integration landscape.
2. Integration difficulties centered on API.
3. Integration may be expensive, especially in large projects.
4. Identifying people capable of handling the integration project.

System Integration with SIS

Starting with the correct business software and systems is critical to make integration as simple as feasible. However, in addition to other criteria, selecting the right integration platform for your integration project might affect how likely you succeed. Get in touch with Southwest Integrated Solutions now!

Any fire protection infrastructure must have a fire suppression system. The word “fire suppression” refers to any engineering set of components designed to extinguish a fire. Putting out the fire can be done with an extinguishing agent such as water, foam, or chemical compounds. This article explains the purpose and functions of a fire suppression system, supporting site teams and building owners in establishing a fire prevention strategy that is both reliable and compliant.

What Is a Fire Suppression System

When extinguishing a fire, there is always one component of a fire suppression intends for this purpose through outer material. Many fire suppression systems additionally include fire detection systems and signaling mechanisms that notify personnel of the situation and compel responsible parties to take additional suppression measures. When a fire is detected, the extinguishing component of the system is usually activated automatically; however, specific fire suppression systems require manual activation.

The potential threats caused by fire and the procedures required to extinguish it differ substantially depending on the source of the fire and other hazards present in the workplace. For example, the dangers posed by fire in a location with explosion hazards or in a position where a worker’s ability to leave is limited necessitate more extensive and specialized suppression systems. That answers the question, what is a fire suppression system?

Because of the extensive range of different types of fires that might develop and the equally wide range of responses required to put them out, various fire suppression standards vary depending on the specific hazards present in a given workplace.

Sprinkler Systems/Water-based Fire Suppression Systems

They are popular because they pose no risk to human health and employ a readily available resource. Wet agents may not be appropriate if a liquid causes the fire because of their lack of efficacy and the risk of spreading the flames by splashing. Frequently employed in this situation are dry agents.

The systems are well-suited to fulfill the demands of today’s busy catering establishments. Auto-ignition is a significant feature of grease fires. It is not a problem to store cooking grease at room temperature. Its vapors, for instance, are difficult to ignite.

However, when heated to an autoignition temperature, simply putting out the fire and removing the heat source may not be enough to prevent re-ignition. The liquid needs to be cooled below the minimum ignition temperature to prevent it from reigniting.

Dry Chemical Systems

They spray a dry chemical powder into a defined area to stop the spread of fire. The most common powders used in dry chemical suppression systems are sodium bicarbonate and mono-ammonium phosphate. Most commonly used for Class B and some Class C fires is sodium bicarbonate. ABC flames require mono ammonium phosphate. A tank is loaded with dry powder and compressed in a dry chemical suppression system. A high-pressure nitrogen cartridge will discharge and open the pressure tank valve with the dry powder when the system is operating. The chemical agent has then released out the nozzles of the suppression system and putting out the fire as a result.

It is necessary to recharge the dry chemical system every after usage. Dry chemistry systems aren’t new, but they’re incredibly dependable. When activated, a dry chem system, such as an ABC fire extinguisher with dry powder, will release a lot of powder over the hazard, necessitating substantial cleanup after each use.

Because they are rechargeable electrical extinguishing systems easily deployed into commercial and industrial settings, dry chem systems give convenient accessibility and operate efficiently. Traditional combustible materials and flammable liquid fires involving live electrical equipment because they are non-conductive, a dry chemical system is used.

Dry chemical suppression systems are a fantastic option for a fire sprinkler system that is unavailable or preferred. Auto paint booths, dip tanks, mixing rooms, and open-faced booths are typical applications for these systems.

To prevent a fire from spreading, a “complete flooding system” that saturates an impacted room with suppressant requires in instances when the source of the fire is exceedingly difficult to extinguish or is challenging to reach, such as the interior of an electrical system. Whole flooding systems can cause substantial injury to humans if there are no correct safety precautions implemented.

How Does it Work?

Built-in components of a fire suppression system will identify fires as soon as possible. The presence of flames and smoke detects initially by these components. The suppression system will then sound an alarm, preventing the spread of fire.

Fire Suppression System Types

In standard practice, there are five different types of fire suppression systems, each with its set advantages and disadvantages depending on the sort of space that needs to be protected:

Water Mist Systems

Exposing a location to a vast amount of water is sometimes not the best approach; thus, using a water mist system to control the water. These systems work by producing far smaller droplets than traditional sprinkler systems. It creates a layer of steam that deprives fires of oxygen, quickly lowering the affected area’s temperature. A more sustainable fire suppression device that consumes far less water than ordinary sprinklers is the best choice. In our article on new fire protection and suppression technologies, we go over water mist systems in further depth.

Kitchen Chemical Foam Systems

There are chemical foam devices built exclusively for putting out kitchen fires. These devices function by rapidly ejecting a water-based chemical foam agent into a limited, localized area. Controlled by a manual switch or a heat link (a link attached to a wire that breaks when exposed to heat, triggering the foam release valve), and are commonly install beneath cookers’ canopies.

Gas Systems

Firefighting liquids stored in gas systems and pressurizes with nitrogen. These liquids include a chemical agent (FM200), which releases swiftly to put out fires. These systems are beneficial for areas with a lot of electrical equipment, such as switchboards or server rooms, because they don’t consume any water. The gas is first condensed into a liquid and stored in small cylinders, making these devices portable, easy to store.

Pneumatic Heat Detection Tubes

The design of pneumatic head detection tubes is remarkably similar to that of fire extinguishers. They are the most compact and movable fire suppression system available. A pipe and a valve are the two main components of these tubes. Commonly situated around a potential fire source, the valve releases a suppressive substance directly onto the flames when it reaches a specified temperature.

Pneumatic heat-detecting tubes fight flames in their early stages in compact spaces with limited maneuverability. As a result, they’re great for putting out fires in cabinets, cupboards, boats, and cars. However, because they are ineffective for putting out massive fires, they do not suggest for use in rooms or locations with high ceilings.

Foam Deluge Systems

The most challenging aspect of firefighting is adequately securing spaces that contain flammable substances. Foam deluge systems are the most effective way to stop these conditions from spreading and you can frequently see in refineries, airplane hangars, and industrial warehouses. In these types of situations, a fire can spread quite quickly. Foam deluge systems are speedily and widely applied suppression materials.

Foam deluge systems use a foam-water mixture to swiftly control burning flammable liquids while also cooling the surrounding environment. The foam’s composition creates a thick blanket that deprives fires of oxygen and prevents the production of combustible gases, thus suffocating the fire. In this way, they’re similar to traditional fire extinguishers.

Engineered vs. pre-engineered fire suppression systems are also topics worth debating. Engineered fire suppression systems will ensure to protect an entire room. For example, Firetrace employs clean compounds that are safe for electronics and maybe inhaled without causing harm.

Pre-engineered systems protects small compartments or micro-environments. Engine compartments and electrical panels are two examples of places where these technologies would be helpful. A pre-engineered system applies to put out fires in CNC and EDM equipment.

Fire Trace Pre-engineered Fire Suppression System

There are two types of Fire trace pre-engineered fire suppression systems: indirect release and immediate release. Learn about the two different Fire trace pre-engineered fire suppression systems in the video below:

Agents for Fire Suppression

Pre-engineered fire suppression systems can employ various agents to help minimize the spread of a fire within the space. Class K systems often feature foam fire suppressants or other wet chemical agent choices. On the other hand, Engines with ABC Dry Chemical powder, which can suppress Class A, B, and C fires, usually covers.

Options for Detection

There are two types or categories of pre-engineered systems. An active detecting system is the first, while a non-electric detection method is the second. Active detection necessitates a continuous search for heat or smoke, which requires an electrical power supply. There is no electricity in a non-electric detecting system.

Pneumatic Detection Tubing

The non-electric detection systems is added within and throughout risks, such as the Fire trace pre-engineered system. Because heat rises, the pneumatic detecting tube triggers. The pipe will burst open at the point of contact if it comes into contact with heat or fire. It produces a pressure change throughout the system, signaling the system to discharge fire suppression agents. Agents with these systems uses carbon dioxide, dry chemicals, clean agents, and foam suppressants.

Costs in the Industry

With fire suppression systems, there are numerous costs to consider, and prices can vary greatly. The most evident is the expense of the actual equipment, which includes the suppression agents. But most of the time, we frequently overlook the cost of installation. When you buy a system, you must also have it installed, which might increase the price. You might want to compare the cost of an automatic fire suppression system to the cost of something more straightforward, such as a fire extinguisher system, which may be able to accomplish the job just as effectively.

Even if a fire extinguisher costs less than $20 in a retail store, the disadvantage of a fire extinguisher is that it requires a person to sit there, detect the flammable, explosive element, and then extinguish it under high pressure. It would be best to examine the cost to human safety and peace of mind in this circumstance. You don’t have to be concerned if your manufacturing plant is operational overnight while no one is present because of a fire suppression system. The system automatically handles it.

For all types of structures, automatic fire protection systems are a common alternative. They are preventive measures in the event of a hazard, detecting and extinguishing flames as soon as they start. Without human assistance, the work they provide can mean the difference between a bit of fire and a major one.

What are the Fire Suppression System Requirements?

Although it is not legally requires to install a fire suppression system in some countries, the responsibility falls to the property owners for conducting fire risk assessments, whether commercial or residential. Whether undertaken internally or externally, this assessment may identify the requirement for a fire suppression system. 

When choosing the best fire suppression system for your requirements, it’s crucial to understand how active and passive fire protection systems operate together to put out flames. Critical for risk management, as it reduces the chance of structural damage while also ensuring the safety of the building’s occupants.

In a nutshell, a fire suppression system does what it says on the tin: it suppresses and extinguishes a fire within a structure.

It’s important to note that when asked what a fire suppression system is, the answer is; they are not the same as fire sprinkler systems. For a sprinkler system to extinguish or suppress a fire, fire sprinklers always require a large volume of water. The Sprinkler will cause water damage to the contents of the room, but it will save lives and the structure.

On the other hand, fire suppression systems employ a variety of suppressing substances in addition to water. CO2, chemicals, and inert gases are examples of stopping agents. These agents have unique features that make them excellent for safeguarding critical equipment and contents within a structure while suppressing a fire, as detailed in detail below.

So to summarize if what is a fire suppression system? The design of the fire suppression system is to intervene before a fire has a chance to grow and spread, decreasing the potential for damage. Fire Suppression means that, unlike fire sprinklers, these devices typically trigger far earlier in the fire’s growth.

How To Test Fire Alarm

Know how to test fire alarm? Every business, apartment, hotel, hospital, and school has a fire alarm system.

Every year, fire does a lot of damage to businesses and can even lead to bankruptcy. Of course, the monetary loss is only part of the story since some fires result in the loss of life. 

To safeguard businesses from this type of harm is the main purpose of a fire alarm system. Its primary goal is to notify employees of a fire so that they can act before it spreads, or at the very least allow management enough time to perform their duty of care and send everyone in the building to safety.

Many people are unaware of how to test fire alarm systems. It needs inspection and regular testing to ensure that they work correctly and are up to code.

Suppose you have installed a fire alarm on your own or manage a building. In that case, you should understand the basics of how to test fire alarm for your system to be compliant and operational to keep your employees and property safe.

What is the purpose of fire alarm system testing?

Testing and inspections of fire alarm systems are essentially the same, and experienced fire protection providers must complete them.

All gadgets that make up a fire alarm system are checked and tested during these inspections/tests. 

• Verify that the initiating devices’ sensitivity is within the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Smoke detectors, heat detectors, duct detectors, beam detectors, and other initiating devices.
• A regular inspection and testing of the fire alarm panel is a must and required.
• Horn strobes, chime strobes, speaker strobes, mass notification systems, and so on are examples of notification devices.

Regular tests are required to ensure that every fire alarm system component is in good operating order.

How To Test Fire Alarms?

In a sense, how to test fire alarm means several mandatory tests and inspections. While most people are acquainted with the annual examination in which a technician checks the initiating devices, notifying devices, and fire alarm panel to ensure they are all working correctly, there are two other tests you should know about:

Acceptance Test

Following the installation of a new system, an acceptance test is necessary. It’s similar to a function test in that it guarantees that all new system components are working correctly. Every element in the system, including the initiating, notifying, and firing panels, is tested.

Performing acceptance test is only once before a building can be occupied immediately following installation. Building renovation is the sole exception in requiring an acceptance test.

Sensitivity Test

Within one year after installing a fire alarm, a sensitivity test should is necessary.

This test’s initiating devices are the subject, ensuring they activate within the manufacturer’s ranges and ratings.

To accomplish so, technicians must activate the initiating device with a combination of a metering device and their aerosol smoke (or heat element) and utilize a pre-set amount of smoke to ensure the alarm triggers within the manufactured range. They then compare their results to the device’s manufacturer’s recommended range. It passes if the device activates inside the defined range.

The system monitors the sensitivity of the devices using “intelligent” plans, and pull reports and provided to the consumer.

Testing often requires two personnel, one watching the fire alarm panel and one to each unit to test and activate it. In some cases, one technician may complete the tests on their own in minimal areas.

Finding a fault, whether by the system’s internal monitoring or through any other source, the responsible person should take the following steps:

• Assessing the fault’s impact region and determining whether it needs more action (such as a fire investigation) in that location
• Determine the cause of the fault, possibly making a note of the activities in the region impacted immediately before the mark.
• Make a note of the problem, notify the servicing organization, and make arrangements for repair.

Outdoor low-voltage lighting is a pleasant floodlight alternative and also used to illuminate stairs, paths, and dark zones for safety purposes. In adding dramatic emphasis to your garden’s best feature, outdoor low-voltage lighting is by far your best choice. Furthermore, they can be as attractive and natural as the landscape itself when artfully installed.

How To Install Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting

To improve curb appeal, installing low-voltage outdoor lighting is one of the effective ways. Since it is low voltage, it is safe to install and use. Learn how to install them to enhance your exterior space.

Selecting the right fixtures and wiring correctly makes your low-voltage outdoor plan successful. For water features such as pools and fountains, use waterproof pond lights. For simulating moonlight, use tree-mounted spotlights and for lighting walkways, use offset path lights. However, for highlighting both surrounding plants and walkways, use cone lights. And for significant elements such as buildings, use floodlights.

Some Tips and Tricks to Install Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting

As you shop for your lighting system, buy a larger transformer so you can add more lights when your landscape expands. Also, always consider the seasonal factors when designing your lighting installation. However, avoid overlighting because it can make your area look washed out.

Steps To Install Low Voltage Outdoor Lighting

If you already have a layout plan and materials, you can proceed to the steps listed below:

1. Place all the fixtures according to your layout plan.

From the transformer to where the lights begin, use 10-gauge wire for your main lines. Then use a 12-gauge wire between the lights. Use a flat shovel to bury the cables on your lawn at least 6 inches deep.

2. Set up the low-voltage lighting transformer.

Install your transformer near an outdoor outlet in a central location. By stripping off 3/4in. of insulation, connect 10-gauge wires to the transformer. Twist small strands together first, then attach them to terminals.

3. Construct a solid base.

For top-heavy cone and path lights, create a rock-steady base from plastic pipe. This base will give your low voltage lighting a sturdy footing, indestructible, and allows you to create extensions. Remember, don’t glue the plastic pipes.

4. Use weatherproof wire connectors.

Weatherproof wire connectors have a blob of sealant inside and a shield on the bottom.

5. Make sure that your fixtures are straight.

Install the lights in a hole deep enough to level the PVC footing with the ground surface. Use a torpedo level for pole leveling and pack the soil around the base. To secure the unburied wires, you can use aluminum tent stakes.

6. You can now test each light.

With a digital voltage meter, test every light fixture for its voltage level. However, low readings indicate a bad connection in the system. Furthermore, you can use voltage controls on the transformer for minor adjustments.

Make Your Outdoor Space as Special as Indoor Space

Outdoor lighting allows you to be proud of the home you built. Add extra beauty by highlighting unique features surrounding your space and come home to a perfectly lit house with beautiful outdoor lighting.