Infrared sensors — infrared radiation, in general — is an interesting topic. This is especially true when it comes to technology. IR sensors are part of the constant innovation of infrared (IR). It is the most used sensor in wireless technology, utilising IR waves to detect motion. In this post, we will discuss what an infrared sensor is and its working principle. The advantages and disadvantages will also be listed for you to see if it is worth adding to your home security. The IR sensor emits and detects infrared radiation, hence the name. Remote control functions and detection of surrounding objects use IR radiation. Infrared sensors work for various purposes. One is as a security solution installed at residential and commercial sites. They use infrared radiation of a wavelength between 0.75 to 1000 µm. This calculation falls between visible and microwave regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. The three regions of infrared spectrum based on its wavelength: Near-Infrared (0.75 µm to 3 µm) Mid Infrared (3 µm to 6 µm) Far Infrared (6 µm) IR is invisible to the human eye. For one, its wavelength is longer than visible light. The wavelength usually ranges from 700 nanometers to one millimetre. This limits human vision in almost all conditions. How do Infrared Sensors work? An IR Sensor works in the following sequence: IR source or the transmitter is used to emit the required wavelength radiation. This radiation reaches the object and is reflected back. The IR receiver detects the reflected radiation. The detected radiation is then further processed based on its intensity. Amplifiers amplify the detected signal. Infrared sensors work on three fundamental Physics laws: Planck's Radiation Law. Any object whose temperature is not equal to absolute Zero (0 Kelvin) emits radiation. Stephan Boltzmann Law. Describes the power radiated from a black body. The total energy emitted at all wavelengths is related to the absolute temperature. Wien's Displacement Law. Objects of different temperatures emit spectra. This peaks at different wavelengths that is inversely proportional to Temperature. Proximity sensors. These are often used as proximity sensors in smartphones to calculate the distance of an object. They use the principle called Reflective Indirect Incidence. The distance is measured based on the intensity of radiation received. Item counter. This uses a direct incidence method to count items. Constant radiation is maintained between the transmitter and receiver. As soon as the item cuts the radiation, the product is detected and counted. Burglar alarm. It works like an item counter, where the transmitter and receiver are kept on both sides of the door frame. Constant radiation is maintained whenever an object crosses a path and the alarm starts. Radiation thermometers. The working of a radiation thermometer depends on temperature and type of object. These have faster responses and easy pattern measurements. They can do measurements without direct contact with the object. Human body detection. This method is used in intrusion detection, auto light switches, to name a few. An intrusion alarm system detects the temperature of the human body. Gas analysers. These are used to measure gas density by using the absorption properties of gas in the IR region. Other applications: IR imaging devices Optical power metres Sorting devices Missile guidance Remote sensing Flame monitors Moisture analysers Night vision devices Infrared astronomy Rail safety There are two types of infrared sensors: active and passive. 1. Active Infrared Sensor Active infrared sensors both emit and detect infrared radiation. The Infrared Beam and Photo Beam sensors are the ones that use Active Infrared (AIR). Active Infrared Beam Detectors adopt invisible infrared detection technology. It consists of a receiver and a transmitter. The transmitter emits 2-4 infrared beams while the receiver receives them. There are two types of active infrared sensors: Break Beam Sensors. Sensors with transmitter and receiver placed in a straight line facing each other. The transmitter sends the Infrared waves to the receiver non-stop. The receiver, in contrast, keeps track of the amount being received. Reflectance Sensors. Sensors that work on the reflecting property of Infrared waves. The transmitter sends the waves continuously in a reflected line. Then, the receiver receives the reflected IR waves from the fixed surface in front. When it comes to home security, infrared beam sensors also play a significant role. They are effective methods for increasing the level of home protection. For one, door entry or fence infrared beam sensors. Based on infrared technology, they can monitor the following: Perimeter Driveways Swimming pools Unauthorised areas With these, they also provide unobtrusive additional protection for businesses. If you plan to get one soon, you will love what we have to offer!   Door / Entry Infrared Beam Sensor TX/RX IP66 15M Product code: JLA517 A heavy-duty variant of the standard beam sensor used in doorway announcers. It is perfect for detecting when a person or object crosses a boundary or a way of entry. The sensor module also comes with a modulated beam. This repels sunlight interference over a range of up to 15m. Simply mount the sensor module aligned with the reflector. Any object that triggers the beam will activate the output. This unit is ideal for linking to existing lighting or security systems. Other features include: Adjustable vertical beam angle Narrow beam angle NC tamper switch output Terminal block and cable gland Compatible with the extension buzzer Weatherproof polycarbonate housing Anti-fog sensor window suitable for outdoor use LED that provides a visual indication of the status of the beam 2. Passive Infrared Sensor A passive infrared (PIR) sensor recognises infrared light emitted from nearby objects. It is used in thermal sensing applications, such as security and motion detection. PIR sensors use pyroelectric sensors to detect heat energy in the surrounding environment. These sensors sit beside each other. When the signal differential between the two changes, the PIR sensor will engage. This triggers an alarm or floodlight and notifies the authorities. This makes PIR sensors ideal in security alarms and motion detection alarms. The following are the advantages of Infrared Sensors: They are considered secure due to the point-to-point mode of communication. Their low power requirements make them ideal for most electronic devices. The battery used lasts for a long duration thanks to its low power consumption. They detect motion in daytime and nighttime reliably. The sensor can detect targets that are closer than 10mm. They are smaller in size and are more affordable. Their response time is faster than a thermocouple. No corrosion or oxidation can affect their accuracy. They provide good stability over time. They deliver high repeatability. The following are the disadvantages of Infrared Sensors: Complex objects (e.g. walls), smoke, dust, and sunlight can affect the Infrared frequencies. Hence it does not work through walls or doors. Infrared waves at high power can damage the eyes. In monitor and control applications, they can control only one device at a time. It is also difficult to control things that are not in LOS (Line of Sight). They support a shorter range, and thus their performance degrades with longer distances. They also support lower data rate transmission compared to wired transmission. Infrared sensors detect heat or infrared radiation that emanates from living things and hot objects. Adding one to your home or business security system can give you a great deal of advantages. (But take note of the disadvantages too!) Anything that moves around your property will create an infrared body heat outline. Your security sensors will then pick this up. For one, a burglar alarm sensor. It is a PIR device that detects infrared energy emitted by humans and animals. A sudden increase in temperature triggers the alarm. If the downsides don't apply to you, it is worth considering as an investment.

From any unexpected situation, a panic alarm can save you and your loved ones. When talking about home security, CCTVs help protect and secure homes. They offer round the clock surveillance in the property's interior and exterior. These devices are thus primarily for security purposes. But what about when you are at home and in need of immediate help? This is where a panic alarm system comes into the picture. Panic alarms provide a convenient way to signal for help without drawing attention. To know more about how a panic alarm works, read on so you can save your life (or someone else) in an emergency. A panic alarm is an electronic device that raises the alarm in an emergency when a person needs help. It allows someone under duress to call for assistance quickly and silently. Panic alarms are also called duress alarms, SOS, panic buttons, or personal alarms. Traditional ‘fixed’ panic alarms are usually found in retail environments. This includes stores that deal with large amounts of money, such as banks and jewellers. You can install a fixed panic alarm under a desk to trigger an emergency. Yet, no matter how effective the alarm is, it is useless if no one is near enough to use it. Thus, having mobile access to panic alarms offer a more efficient and secure solution. Suppose you are in an uncomfortable situation in the car park, panic alarms via apps can be activated. Places where panic alarms may be particularly beneficial (other than homes): Cashier’s stations, checkout and customer service counters Executive office suites Interview rooms (e.g. HR department) Receptionist's desks (building lobbies) Places where confrontations are likely to occur (e.g. public areas) Security stations and checkpoints Shipping/receiving areas Places to install panic buttons in homes in case of an emergency: Bedrooms right next to the bed Bathrooms Basement Kitchen Living room Garage When to use a panic alarm? A panic alarm can be used in different emergencies where help might be needed ASAP. This includes: When feeling intimidated by someone Being verbally abused In danger of physical assault Getting trapped without means of communication These situations usually occur at work, but they could also happen anywhere. Panic alarms consist of two basic components, and these are: The panic button The communications systems Panic button The panic button, as the name suggests, is the device that the user presses in case of an emergency. There are various types available, but the most common ones are with a single or two pushbuttons. Panic buttons can also be activated by a foot or knee. Or can be covertly activated when cash or a product is withdrawn per the robber's request. You should install them in a location within easy reach. Moreover, they must be out of view of the casual observer. In most cases, on the underside of a desk or countertop. Panic buttons can be wired and wireless, too. With wired models, they are connected using cables. They are reliable units, but it can be challenging and costly to get one for each location. The wireless counterpart, in contrast, uses a short-range radio transmitter. With their wireless feature, they are easy to install and can be placed just about anywhere. If desired, they can be carried around on the premises. But they need batteries and frequent upkeep to see they are operating properly. If you own a Wi-FI IP camera like the JQC3870, have a look at this wireless panic button!   Wireless Panic Button for JQC3870 Wi-Fi IP Camera System Product code: JQC3872 This wireless panic button works well with the 1080P WiFi IP camera (JQC3870). It activates the security system in case of coercion. The unit comes with a battery-powered switch powered by a 23A 12V battery. If you are thinking of investing in one soon, we recommend getting both the camera and panic button. Equip your home with a standalone surveillance CCTV with an IP camera. Pair it with the wireless panic button to enhance your home security system. Communications systems The communications system summons help when someone presses the panic button. The type of communications system depends on the resources available at the facility. The level of security threat is also an important consideration. Types of communications systems include: Communications to an off-site alarm monitoring centre. This includes small businesses that do not have on-site security staff. The panic buttons connect to an alarm control panel. When pressed, the alarm monitoring centre would call the police to respond to the site. Communications to the security control centre. Usually for larger companies with centralised security monitoring and control centres. Communications to non-security personnel. For organisations that do not have on-site security. They form a "response team" to do the job when the panic button is pressed. Most panic alarms operate as either a siren or a silent warning. It is up to you which one you think works best for your needs. Siren panic alarms This type of panic alarm system, as the name suggests, emits a loud sound. The piercing siren serves as a powerful attacker deterrent. It warns the neighbourhood that something is up, so thieves won't be as happy to stick around. The alarm will switch off after about three minutes unless activated manually. The time frame is enough to frighten the attacker. Silent panic alarms Unlike sirens, silent panic alarms silently alert police when someone activates the panic button. Silent alarms are convenient and do not bring unwanted attention to a call for help. It is widely used in stores or banks where it could be unsafe for a teller to notify the police about the robbery. By pressing the panic button, it will warn the responders quietly. 1. Provide video surveillance Provide a CCTV system that views each area where a panic button is installed. The panic alarm system should be interfaced with the surveillance for real-time recording. This allows the security control centre to assess the situation. 2. Have response procedures and support The response team should have some method to assess the situation. For one, the CCTV should be remotely viewed by response team members. This can be done using a computer on the network with video viewing software. Or provide each team or member with dedicated video monitors. 3. Different responses for different types of situations There is a “two-state” panic button that is programmed with two types of signals that can be sent. One is for true emergencies. The other one is for when help is needed, but the situation does not need an emergency response. For instance, when there is a drunk person in the lobby. There is no need for an emergency response here unless it poses a serious threat. Press the latter button. Panic alarms are ideal when it may be unsafe or uncomfortable to call for help in other ways. For instance, you are in a situation where an aggressive person is standing in your lobby. It may be unwise to further escalate the situation by picking up a phone or screaming to call for help. But a panic alarm can provide a quick way to summon assistance without causing a scene. However, panic alarms are worthless if the user does not know how to use them. It is best to have proper training.

Metalworking is a complex task—but having the right tools makes it easier, and that is where a nibbler tool comes into play. A nibbler is the kind of tool you do not think about until you really need it. Unless you are someone who deals with metal works and sculptures most of the time. Nonetheless, it is always best to have nibblers at hand. For one, when your DIY project requires cutting metal sheets, you can complete the job quickly. But what exactly is a nibbler tool? How does it work, and how do you use one? Read on to find out! Nibblers are a must-have tool for metalworking. They provide intricate yet precise cutting with complete clean cuts. In short, they are tools that cut through metal sheets. Using one reduces the manual effort required and finishes the task pronto. Nibblers create straight and even cuts with minimal distortion of the metal sheet. They accomplish these cuts with an upward blade punching through the metal. Some metal cutting tools do not leave clean cuts. They tend to leave traces on the metal, mainly if they use a thermal heating process. Nibblers, in contrast, do not need heat to work. Thus, the sheets they work on won't suffer from heat damage. Plus, the cuts they make are distortion-free, as mentioned above. Moreover, nibblers work at high speed and consume exact amounts of metal as per their punch size. This results in consistent and clean cuts. Nibblers work by applying force with a single blade, usually upward. The tracks on either side of the blade create a narrow channel. When the blade pushes the material through the channel, it removes a small bit of metal. The force from the blade and the hard edge of the channels is how the tool achieves a clean-cut or no distortion. This is also why the cuts are much smaller than what you get with shears or snips. Further, a nibbler leaves behind a narrow channel (6mm wide), also known as kerf. A kerf is a channel left behind by a saw or blade, measured by the width of the saw blade. The actual size of the kerf depends on several factors, such as: The width of the blade and channel; The amount of material pulled out; Whether the blade wobbles when cut, affecting the size of the kerf—or not. If the kerf from your nibbler tool varies in width, chances are the blade is loose or the nibbler is poor in quality. Your first step is to mark the material, a.k.a. the metal sheet. Mark the material you will cut so you can have a guide to follow with the nibbler tool. The second is to remove the safety lock on the nibbler. Do this by flicking it downwards to release the blade. Then, to cut the material. Position the tool on the material with the blade underneath. Push the handles together to cut through the material. Repeat the steps until the desired cut has been made. Once the cut is complete, remove the nibbler and the waste material. Re-attach the safety lock to protect the blade whilst not in use. Metalworking is the process of forming and shaping metals. It falls under the categories of forming, cutting and joining. It may also involve cutting, welding, casting, and moulding. When it comes to cutting, this is where a nibbler becomes useful. It is a versatile tool that helps cut through metal sheets completely. Nibblers are available in two forms: freehand and bench mounted. One of the most common freehand nibblers is the punch and die, which we will talk about more later. Considering nibblers cut through metal sheets, they make an essential tool for metalworking.  A nibbler tool can be advantageous when cutting small channels or cutouts. With alternative methods, the process would usually be much more tedious. For the same reason, nibblers are often used by metalworkers to cut patterns out of sheet metal. Nibblers and shears perform the same cutting action, but there are a few differences. Nibblers cut through sheet metal precisely without damaging the workpiece. This versatile tool is available in freehand use, or bench mounted versions. Further, it can cut a wide range of steel materials in varying materials. It is ideal for cutting sections, small channels, tubes, and corrugated sheets. Shears, in contrast, cut slight curves and straight cuts. This type of cutting tool is ideal for aluminium, brass, copper, lead, and other materials. It is compact and is designed to provide faster and less effort cutting. Available in pneumatic or electric-powered versions, shears are known for their: High speed Optimum performance Efficiency Now, let us take a look at some of their differences. Nibblers are not an ideal choice when it comes to cutting extremely fine lines. But this can be accomplished with the help of hand shears. Unlike shears, nibblers are widely chosen to cut patterns out of sheet metal. Shearing creates less waste compared to nibbling. A Shearing tool is suitable for heavier-duty cutting tasks compared to nibblers. Nibblers are easy to operate in difficult-to-access areas, unlike shears. They are great for prototyping and small production. With this info, you must be able to make the right choice when choosing the best cutting tools for your needs. There is a diverse range of nibblers available. They cut a variety of materials but have their limitations as well. Whether you should use a nibbler tool, and which type, will depend on your project. 1. Punch and die A standard manual nibbler that requires a significant amount of force and strength. This tool nibbles its way through the sheet metal at high speed. It sprays out small semicircular chips as it is guided through the workpiece. Each 'nibble' takes out a small chunk of sheet metal when you apply pressure and ejects that shard as you release. The process is called the punch & die assembly, hence the name. If you are looking for the best punch & die tool for beginners, check this out!   Metal Nibbling Tool Product code: TL1768 This punch & die tool cuts up to an 18AWG mild steel sheet. It nibbles out small holes for fuse holders, connectors, and more. Squeeze the handles together to punch moves down and cut out a slug of material. Other features include: Effective portable tool for punching holes through sheet steel Designed to fit in the palm of your hand for easy use 2. Nibbler shears The most modern version of a manual nibbler available today. Unlike the standard one, which is held perpendicular, nibbler shears are held parallel. The cut is made as the handles are squeezed together. The intuitive design is similar to snips or shears, but this 'super nibbler' uses a single blade. Moreover, it is versatile enough to operate from an upward or downward position. Thus, you can have the blade cutting in either direction. The default state, ergonomically, is to have the blade cutting upward. Nibbler shears are several inches longer than other nibbles, too. The design gives you more leverage, allowing you to make the same cuts with less force. 3. Benchtop nibbler If you work with metal, a benchtop nibbler tool has you covered to power through the toughest jobs. As the name suggests, it is an electrical-powered benchtop machine. Most units come with powerful motors for continuous operation and usually include: Punch Die Wrench 50 Hex Wrench Washer Note: Electric nibblers are available in corded, cordless, pneumatic and attachments. Your choice should be based on your requirements and preference. You will want to use a standard hand nibbler in some situations and nibbler shears in others. There are also scenarios where manual nibblers are not the best tool for the job. In such cases, a benchtop version may come in handy or a pair of shears or snips. But if your goal is to minimise distortion, a nibbler like the punch & die should be enough for the job. There you have it! We hope our short introduction to nibblers, mainly manual, has answered your questions. Might as well read our guide to crimping tools next to familiarise yourself more with hand tools!

How to use a crimping tool? How does it work? Crimping tools are great for joining pieces of metal, wires and other components. One of the common uses is the attachment of connectors to the end of electrical cables. No wonder why many technicians and DIY enthusiasts favour a crimping tool! Further, it is multi-functional, making it a must-have hand tool. As amazing as it may sound, the crimping process can be tricky as it consists of a few steps. That is why our team has decided to put together this short guide on how to use a crimping tool. You would never know how important all the information we have for you is until you read it! Crimp tools are used to join components by pressing them together and deforming one of them. The deformed piece is a crimp. The purpose of a crimping tool is to prepare a network or cable for use. An example of crimping is adjoining a connector to the end of a cable. RJ-11 and RJ-45 connectors are common connectors used for cables. Moreover, they can be attached to the end of a cable with just a crimping tool. Most types of crimping tools are great for multipurpose uses. They come with compression, bending, cutting, stripping, and more. Plus, they can work with different cable, wire or pipe sizes, including gauges. Despite a variety of different crimping tools, they are all used for the same purpose. Take note, though, that using the wrong tool can cause damage. Using hammers or flat rocks to attach the connectors to the cables can result in bad quality or failure. The basic process for using a crimping tool is below. There may be additional steps depending on the type of connector you are crimping. For instance, crimping a RJ45 connector will require the coloured wires to be lined up in a specific order. Use a wire stripper to remove a section of insulation at the end of the wire. Place the wire you want to crimp into the connector. You want the bare wires to reach the end of the connector, and the wire insulation to match the connector base. Remove the cable from the connector and trim the wires to match. Once matched, put the cable back into the connector and place them into the crimping tool. Then, squeeze the handles of the tool together to connect the wire and connector firmly. Apply pressure to take out the newly crimped connector. To check if your connection is secure or not, give a few tugs. The cable and the connector should hold together, even with a great force pulling them. If the connection is pulled apart, the crimping has not been done right. Tip: Before installation, test your crimped cable. This helps to prevent failures once the cable and connector are installed, or additional work removing the wire from a complex setup. The crimping tool is also widely used in metalworking. It plays an important role in many applications, including: Correcting bullets Electrical connections Securing lids on metal food cans Moreover, it is utilised for bonding a non-metallic component with the workpiece. For instance, when joining segments of tubular smoke pipes for wood stoves. The joint will not be liquid-tight but may be arranged to prevent dirt buildup. There are various categories of crimp tools available. For smaller crimping requirements, precision is key. Further, a manually-operated crimp tool will most likely be sufficient. But when more power is required, hydraulic and electrical models come in handy. Handheld As the name suggests, this category of crimping tool is manually operated. Handheld crimp tools are portable and ideal for smaller items. They resemble traditional pliers with clamps bearing a ridge on one side and a notch on the other. Electrical Battery operated units require less effort when it comes to crimping pressure. Electrical crimping tools bring extra battery power to portable models. Other units are also available to meet varying requirements. Some even come with ratchets and ergonomic fittings. The ratchet improves the efficiency significantly by ensuring that enough pressure is applied. Benchtop Bulkier models that are mounted on workbenches with higher capacity variations. A benchtop crimping tool is best for accomplishing more demanding crimping tasks. Hydraulic A category of crimping tools that demands less effort to operate. All thanks to the supplied compression power. Hydraulic crimp tools deliver maximum power for strenuous repair, maintenance and industrial applications. Pneumatic Compressed air-based tools deliver power for heavy-duty applications. Thus, they can bring serious force to crimping tasks. Like hydraulics, pneumatic models use air pressure for the same purpose. They are also available in both manual and workbench models. Here are a few types of crimp tools, ideal for a range of industries and environments. 1. Bootlace crimp tools A type of crimping tool designed to work with bootlace ferrules. These are copper tubes used for creating a reliable electrical connection. They need a different form of crimping to standard cabling—and the bootlace crimp tool does the job. Most bootlace crimping tools are electrically insulated and feature ratchets. 2. Auto electrical crimp tools Designed to provide sturdy joins for electrical connectors and cables within car engines. These include non-insulated, pre-insulated, battery and ignition terminals. Different tools are available for each, all in standard plier designs. 3. Mini crimping tools Ideal for use with thinner wiring widths. Using mini crimping tools for tasks requiring close-up precision and flexibility within tight operating spaces. You can also find models that feature rotatable flip-top heads. These are of great use within confined areas. Have a look at this compact, lightweight and rugged design mini crimp tool.   Crimping Tool 10 GIG RJ Product code: TL0004 Designed for 10Gig termination, with a handy lock button. This mini crimping tool allows you to 2-step crimp simply and efficiently. After terminating the pins of the modular plug, you can switch to the back end to crimp. This lets you crimp the external ground of the Cat 6A connector. Applications: FJ45 Cat6A connectors / RJ11 & 12 connectors 4. PEX crimping tools A form of flexible plastic used for installing PEX pipes. It is easier to install and join lengths of plastic than copper or steel tubing. Even better, it does not require welding—specialised PEX crimping tools will do. 5. Amp crimp tools Amp connectors are multi-pin devices fitted within plastic housing. Specialist amp crimpers apply precise force. This is required to form a strong connection with suitable cabling. 6. RJ45 crimp tools A flexible and powerful handheld crimper, compatible with: CAT5e CAT6 CAT6A CAT7 terminals Have a look at our modular crimping tools compatible with RJ45.   Modular Crimping Tool - 6Pin RJ11/12, 8Pin RJ45 Product code: JTH1935 A lightweight, durable and compact modular crimping tool. It is ideal for Ethernet modular plugs: 6P2C, 6P4C - RJ11, 6P6C - RJ12, 8P - RJ45. Easy and efficient cutting and stripping of wire with one operation.   RJ11/12/45 Crimp Tool Product code: TL0002 It features a ratchet-type locking system for both storage and cutting applications. You can cut 4, 6, and 8 flat wire cables for it to be able to fit into its relevant RJ type connector. 6. RJ9 crimp tools A widely used handheld crimp tool compatible with RJ45, RJ11 and RJ12 connectors. Moreover, the RJ9 has three dies (crimping heads). Without the correct crimping tool, the cable can be compromised. But choosing the right one ensures your cable terminators—the device, in general—are safe. The correct usage of this handy equipment also plays a vital role. This allows you to fix wiring heads to connectors or terminals precisely. As a result, you formed the exact electrical union. By reading our 'how to use a crimping tool' guide, you already have that advantage!

An introduction to heat gun uses, covering the different types and things to consider. Every artisan knows how heat guns come in handy. One main factor is their versatility, which makes them essential for your tool kit. It is known for help strip paints and weld plastics, but that is just some of the amazing uses a heat gun provides. Ideal for tackling home improvements, this power tool has much more to offer. In this post, we put together a list of heat gun uses that will make you click that 'add to cart' button after learning them. But first, let us introduce you to the basics. Heat guns have replaced the old fashioned way of stripping paint or adhesives. We are talking about using a gas blow torch with a butane canister. If you have used one before, or are still using one—it is time to make an upgrade. A heat gun is a tool that can heat surfaces and materials without using a flame or fluid. Its appearance resembles a hairdryer, but it is completely different in what tasks it is designed for. With most units being electric, you can switch it off during pauses in the work. Moreover, there is no naked flame involved, unlike a gas blow torch. Heat guns only produce hot airflow that is less dangerous. Yet it can cause flammable items to catch fire, crack glass, or injure if directed onto skin. You better make sure you know how to operate one correctly. How heat guns work A fan pulls air into the tool's body, driving it across an electric heating element. The produced hot airflow comes out through the nozzle. Suppose you are stripping paint on timber. Point the heat gun onto the painted surface and wait for the tool to soften the area. After a few seconds or a minute, use a stripping knife to strip the paint off. Easy peasy! Heat guns can be held using one hand But some supports are placed on a table for hands-free operation. You will also find models that feature temperature controls for adjusting air heat. Temperature setting A standard heat gun has one heat setting and one fan speed, ideal for paint stripping. But modern units have two or more heat settings with variable speeds of airflow. Holding the tool further away from the surface can reduce the effectiveness of the heat. Having variable settings, in contrast, makes the job less complicated. When it comes to paint stripping, maximum speed and airflow are necessary. These settings are also needed for soldering plumbing joints, freeing rusty nuts, etc. The ideal temperature settings for various applications, according to experts: Drying paint or varnish: 30°C. to 130°C Drying out damp wood (before filling or painting): Around 100°C to 200°C Softening adhesive (e.g. applying worktop edge trim or lifting floor tiles): 300°C to 400°C Bending plastic pipes: 200°C to 300°C Welding some plastics: 330°C to 400°C Heat-shrinking plastic film: 200°C to 300°C There are only a few of the possible uses for heat guns. If you want to know more, then keep on reading! Discover all the amazing heat gun uses with tips down below! Removing older bolts and screws, especially rusty ones, can be tricky. This is where a heat gun comes into the picture! The hot air that a heat gun releases will cause the metal to expand and eventually loosen. Thus, allowing for easier removal. When temperature drops in winter, frozen pipes are likely to occur. If you are one step away from a plumbing emergency, reach for your heat gun. Lower the temperature setting and warm the pipes slowly and gently. Have patience and make sure not to overheat the pipes too much, otherwise, it will cause damage. When your wooden deck is damp, it will be more susceptible to mould and rot. The good thing is a heat gun also works wonders when getting rid of that excess moisture. Use it in a low heat setting to prevent the wood from burning. If your next DIY project involves bending PVC or metal pipes, using a heat gun will do the trick! For instance, if you wish to change the shape of your hockey stick, it can allow you to manipulate the shape you want. Removing adhesives, particularly wallpapers, can be time-consuming. This is especially true when you plan to do the task with your bare hands. The same applies to removing stickers off a mirror or car, the label from a jar, a bathroom/kitchen tile, to name a few. Luckily for you, a heat gun can make the task much easier. It is one of the best tool choices when removing various adhesives with ease! Does your leather chair or vinyl flooring have a cut in it? A heat gun can save the day! Grab a patch and coat one side with heat-activated glue. Use your heat gun to activate the glue and place it over the cut. Frost buildup in freezers can be a real headache. Defrosting is another problem. Sure, you could open the door or even use a hairdryer to defrost, but these methods take a long time to melt the ice. Your heat gun can get the job done much faster, especially when done right! Who would have thought that a heat gun could also be used for roasting coffee beans? Believe us; we were surprised, too! It turns out that it is true and effective. Place the coffee beans in a metal bowl, then position the heat gun close to it. Move the tool around for an even heat distribution. Stir the beans from time to time to avoid burning and allow equal roasting. When you hear that first crack, the beans are ready to use. Need to smooth out your 3D prints, or repair an error in your print? A heat gun could be just what you need to make your 3D Printing the best it can be. It could also be handy for cleaning your print bed, to remove excess filament. Candle making is a great hobby, but it takes a lot of practice when working with wax. To create the perfect candle, there should not be a nick in the wax; you also may encounter a levelling problem. A heat gun can easily fix those issues. If you are interested in having your windows tinted, you can do it yourself, especially if you have a heat gun. Use the tool to heat shrink the tint film adhering to the window. Use a smoothing tool after to achieve a smooth finish. A heat gun is a crafter's dream tool for embossing. For one, it is designed to have a gentle stream of hot air, which helps melt the embossing powder without blowing it. As the heat is targeted, you can also avoid other areas getting unduly heated. Heat guns can make a variety of tasks much easier. They are also good for removing paint, thawing frozen copper pipes, drying damp surfaces, to name a few! When looking for a new tool to add to your household tool kit, consider what you will use it for. If your work or DIY projects involve heating, you will benefit from a powerful heat gun. Heat guns vary in power, hot airflow and temperature control. Consider these factors when shopping for one online or in-stores. Have a look at this powerful 2000W we have on hand!   Temperature Heat Gun 2000W 240V Adjustable Product code: JTH1609 Ideal for many DIY applications, it features 2 heat settings and 4 nozzle attachments. It is suitable for the following tasks: Shaping plastic tubing Shrinking heat-shrink sleeving Removing paint Softening adhesives Defrosting metal water pipes Temperature/airflow Low: 400°C, 250L/min High: 600°C, 500L/min Run the lower setting first for a period of time before switching to the higher setting. Follow the instructions in the manual. If you need a hot air blower for your projects, look no further than heat guns! Who knows? You will likely discover more heat gun uses than we did!

Keep your family and home safe, especially at night, with security lights. Locking the doors and securing the windows are common habits that help secure homes. But taking further steps to reinforce home safety can make it even safer than it is now. One of the effective ways to make your abode securer than ever is by installing a security system. On top of surveillance cameras, security lighting also plays a major role. Well-placed security lighting can deter potential criminals, protecting your home better. If you are thinking of investing in one or more for your home, this guide is for you! Security lighting is one of the most simple but significant crime deterrents. It enhances natural surveillance, delineating both private and public spaces. The ultimate purpose of home security lights is to provide safety to your property. It gives enough light over an area that enables you to see anyone moving in or around. For instance, in some parts of your property that do not have lights during nighttime. Illuminating those areas can increase your home's security level. Indoor and exterior lighting help deter burglars from breaking in. In addition to being a major deterrent of thieves, security lighting offers other perks, too. In particular, it helps increase the curb appeal of your property, a.k.a. Aesthetics. Security lighting should have the following objectives: Provide a clear line of view of an area from a distance It should enable anyone moving in the area to be easily seen Deny potential hiding spaces next to common travel routes Permit facial recognition from a distance of at least 30 feet Facilitate the proper use of security devices such as CCTV Cameras Your lighting is enough for security if you can read a newspaper at night from a distance of arm's length. 1. Motion-activated lighting Having your lights on all day may help deter crime, but it is not the most effective solution. For one, this can increase your electricity bill. This is where motion lights come in handy. Motion-activated lights help catch potential intruders off-guard, startling them. In a situation like this, chances are they will think twice about approaching your home. Even better, this type of security lighting is energy-efficient. They are only turned on when they sense motion. As a result, it helps cut down on energy consumption. They also have in-built light sensors, so they only go off between dusk and dawn. Motion sensor lights can also be adjusted to disregard the movement of your pets, e.g. cats or dogs. Thus, this type of security light makes a perfect addition to your home alarm system. 2. Floodlights Another great option for your home security lighting is floodlights. Utilising LED floodlights on your property helps provide better lighting to your yard. With LEDs, the energy consumption is only a fraction of the use of incandescent light. Floodlights are very bright, too. So make sure to find the perfect place to install them to avoid disturbing your neighbours. Have a look at our available LED floodlights below.   LED Floodlight IP65 12-24V 20W Product code: LA1224-2040 IP65 rated enclosure; this 20W LED floodlight is ideal for indoor and outdoor use. With a DC operating voltage ranging from 12v to 24v, you can use it in solar batteries, vans, and trucks. It also comes with a mounting bracket. To suit a wide range of applications, the range features 3W ratings and two colour temperatures.   Slim LED Floodlight with Motion Sensor 240VAC 20W Product code: LA2460BK This unit features a PIR motion sensor that uses the long life Epistar SMD5730 chipset. The PIR function automatically switches on the floodlight when it detects body movements. You can adjust the sensitivity, brightness, and duration of the unit with a 120° beam angle. The model is weatherproof and is only 27-48mm thick! Plus, it is built with a durable diecast aluminium case with an adjustable bracket. The specially made aluminium reflector improves light uniformity and luminous flux. Suitable to use for indoor and outdoor applications. 3. High-Intensity Discharge (HIG) security lights If you own a massive property, such as a farm, that you wish to illuminate, HID lights may be a better option for you. This type of security lighting is commercial-grade light designed for commercial building use. Residential homes with vast land can also benefit from HIG security lights. 4. Solar lights Solar lights have risen in popularity in recent years. All thanks to their energy-saving and environmentally friendly qualities. Most solar lights are cordless, so burglars cannot unplug or cut their cords. Providing ambient lighting, they make an excellent addition to pathways. Have a look at these rechargeable solar sensor spotlight and wall lights!   Solar Rechargeable Sensor Spot Light Product code: JSL3238 This unit comes with an adjustable dual-head and built-in PIR for detecting movements. The motion sensor automatically turns on and off the security light at night. During the day, the sunlight charges the solar panel to prepare it for night use.   180 Lumen Solar Powered Motion Sensor LED Light Product code: JSL3503 A functional and reliable unit with a super bright 180-lumen shine. An all-in-one tidy unit that charges by day and illuminates by night. The built-in motion sensor means it’s not needlessly wasting its stored power. Plus, the night sensor ensures the unit does not operate throughout the day. Wall mounting includes an installation kit. 5. Continuous lighting This is the most common security lighting system on the market. It features fixed lights designed to provide continuous lighting in an area. There are two primary methods of using this type of security light. Glare projection security. A strong deterrent to a potential intruder as the lighting makes it difficult to see inside the area. Controlled security lights. This is an ideal use for limiting the width of the lighted strip outside the perimeter. Along highways, for instance. The width of the lighted strip is also controlled and adjusted to fit the particular need. It can illuminate or silhouette a person or a thing. 6. Standby lighting Also known as crash lighting, standby has a similar layout to continuous lighting. The only difference is that the lights are not lit continuously. Instead, they are turned on when any suspicious activity is detected. 7. Movable lighting As the name suggests, it is a type of lighting that consists of manually operated movable lights. These lights may be lit during hours of darkness or only as needed. Movable lights are often mounted on trailers with power generators. The top benefits below are proof that security lights are worthwhile investments. 1. Clearing the shadows Home security lighting helps get rid of the dark shadows where intruders can hide. Providing clear visibility, you will be able to see anyone on your property at night. On top of that, the sudden illumination of motion-activated lighting can frighten potential thieves, making them think they have been spotted and causing them to leave. 2. Neighbourhood watch Do you live in a community where a family member or friend is your neighbour? Security lights allow you to monitor your family’s safety, including theirs! Moreover, this enables you to see whether someone is lurking on your ground - or theirs. If so, you can give them a quick alert of the trouble. 3. Increased property value Security lighting is a feature that helps your property stand out. It may cost you upfront, but in the long run, this investment will increase the value of your home. If you plan on selling it in the future, your home security system is a major plus to potential buyers. Home security lights discourage potential intruders as they have no place to hide. Even when you are away from home, the motion sensors can do their job in protecting your property. The same goes for commercial buildings after business hours. On top of the protection it provides, security lighting also increases curb appeal. And the ambient tones they give off create a more welcoming setting. In a nutshell, installing outdoor lighting is a good investment. NOW is the perfect time to ensure your home is secure and well-lit! Browse through our range of security lights here and find the perfect unit for your needs. This article was originally published in August 2021 and has been updated.