BG Electrical sees the role of the socket adapting with the technological revolution that is changing British households.
A few decades ago, the idea of one family sharing a computer was an optimistic thought for computer manufacturers. Now, everyone has a computer in their pocket.
The advent of computers, the internet and mobile technology has dramatically changed the average household. Through computers and mobile devices, people have more access to information and are more connected than they have ever been. Wi-Fi has become as valuable a necessity as electricity for everyday life and business (it has been called a human right by six nations with others debating the issue).
With over a third of adults owning at least two mobile devices and one in ten have more than four TVs, it is clear to see the outlet feeling the strain.
Seeing these changes in modern households and trends in technology, BG sought to develop and produce a product which was tailored for a family’s vital appliances whilst helping keep them connected.
USB Sockets
On seeing this growing trend in mobile devices and tablets, and the need to stay connected, the company decided to dip its toe into the water with, what would turn out to be, its market-leading USB Sockets.
Starting with a 35mm backbox, with two USB outlets providing a 2.1A charge, the company found a demand in modern households for better charging. Customers loved the fact that they could free up their outlets with two additional USB charging ports. I was a hit. Seeing this response from the market, the company has continually built on its USB Socket range and have adapted it to better serve its customers.
From a 35mm backbox, they have compressed and packed their new models into a 25mm backbox for easier retrofitting. The accessories are also available in a greater variety of finishes to seamlessly integrate into any home. With the option of single and double sockets, BG can now offer up to four USB charging ports with their outlets.
More than USB charging
When the brand first launched its USB Sockets, a 2.1A would be a sufficient charge. However, with phones and tablets becoming more powerful, BG has have upped its charging power to 3.1A and 4.2A.
More recently, another BG Electrical innovation was born; the new Wi-Fi Range Extender Socket .
Using ‘Smart USB’ charging technology, it recognises the device connected and adapts the charge pattern to ensure compatibility. Its smart electronics monitor the load and will automatically shut down in an overload condition, preventing the risk of damage to the connected device.
This development in the socket found a gap in both the marketplace and regulations which caused the BS1363-2 standard to be updated to include USB sockets.
BG’s Wi-Fi Socket Range Extender is the first of its kind, designed to eliminate patchy Wi-Fi zones around the home. From computers and mobile devices to smart TVs, a strong wireless connection is more important now than ever. However, many homeowners are hampered and frustrated by dense walls or new conversions which are just out of reach of an ideal connection. BG's device can extend a Wi-Fi router's range by 300Mbps or up to 30 meters. Easily integrating into everyday wireless routers and is simple to both fit and use, repeating signal strength to help homeowners stay connected.
What is next for the socket?
In a time as short as a decade, with the changes and developments we have already seen, we may not recognise the next reincarnation of the socket. It is no doubt that we are becoming ever more reliant on the computers and mobile devices for their everyday life. A new device or product can change everything. It may demand greater integration into modern homes or require its own unique power supply. With the rise of intelligent personal assistants and home automation, BG can see more opportunities for outlets to greater support and improve the lives of households in the future.
With the next trend or innovation pulling the industry and homeowners in a certain direction, manufacturers will have to wait and see how their sockets might adapt to meet it. It is, however, BG's goals to be at the forefront with a product to meet the ever-changing needs of both installers and end-users alike.
For more information visit www.bgelectrical.uk/wifi or www.usbeautiful.co.uk