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“The Electromagnetic Spectrum: A Critical Natural Resource”,  Christian A. Herter Jr. | Natural Resources Journal, Summer 1985, Volume 25, Issue 3

US National Telecommunications and Information Administration | Federal Communications Commission

ITU & IEC Campus Geneva

School of the Air

 

Canadian Parliament Debate on Standards Incorporated by Reference

“The Jack Pine” | Tom Thomson (1916) | National Gallery of Canada

 

Originally posted January 2014

In these clips — selected from Canadian Parliamentary debate in 2013 — we observe three points of view about Incorporation by reference (IBR); a legislative drafting technique that is the act of including a second document within a main document by referencing the second document.

This technique makes an entire second (or referenced) document a part of the main document.  The consensus documents in which we advocate #TotalCostofOwnership concepts are incorporated by reference into legislation dealing with safety and sustainability at all levels of government.  This practice — which many consider a public-private partnership — is a more effective way of driving best practices for technology, and the management of technology, into regulated industries.

Parent legislation — such as the Higher Education Act of 1965, the Clean Air Act and the Energy Policy Act – almost always require intermediary bureaucracies to administer the specifics required to accomplish the broad goals of the legislation.  With the gathering pace of governments everywhere expanding their influence over larger parts of the technologies at the foundation of national economies; business and technology standards are needed to secure that influence.  These standards require competency in the application of political, technical and financial concepts; competencies that can only be afforded by incumbent interests who build the cost of their advocacy into the price of the product or service they sell to our industry.  Arguably, the expansion of government is a reflection of the success of incumbents in business and technical standards; particularly in the compliance and conformity industries.

About two years ago, the US debate on incorporation by reference has been taken to a new level with the recent statement released by the American Bar Association (ABA):

16-164-Incorporation-by-Reference-ABA-Resolution-and-Report

The American National Standards Institute responded to the ABA with a statement of its own.

16-164-ANSI-Response-to-ABA-IBR-06-16 (1)

The incorporation by reference policy dilemma has profound implications for how we safely and economically design, operate and maintain our “cities-within-cities” in a sustainable manner but, admittedly, the results are only visible in hindsight over a time horizon that often exceed the tenure of a typical college or university president.

A recent development — supporting the claims of ANSI and its accredited standards developers — is noteworthy:

The National Institute for Standards and Technology (NIST) manages a website — Standards.GOV — that is a single access point for consensus standards incorporated by reference into the Code of Federal Regulations: Standards Incorporated by Reference Database.   Note that this database does not include specific reference to safety and sustainability codes which are developed by standards setting organizations (such as NFPA, ICC, IEEE, ASHRAE and others) and usually incorporated by reference into individual state public safety and technology legislation.

LEARN MORE:

 

Standards for American Prosperity

 

Crucial Role of Standards for American Prosperity Highlighted in CSIS Roundtable Session with S. Joe Bhatia

 

Here are some of the ways in which government regulations impede economic growth:

  1. Increased costs: Regulations can impose additional costs on businesses, which can affect their ability to operate efficiently and compete in the marketplace. For example, regulations can require businesses to invest in new technologies or processes to comply with environmental or safety standards, which can increase their expenses.
  2. Reduced innovation: Some people believe that regulations can stifle innovation and entrepreneurship, as businesses may be hesitant to invest in new products or technologies that could be subject to strict regulations. This can limit the potential for new businesses to emerge and grow.
  3. Slowed job growth: Regulations can increase the cost of doing business, which can lead to reduced hiring and slower job growth. This can be particularly challenging for small businesses that may not have the resources to comply with regulatory requirements.
  4. Reduced competition: Regulations can sometimes create barriers to entry for new businesses, which can reduce competition and limit economic growth. This can be particularly true in industries that are heavily regulated, such as healthcare and finance.
  5. Reduced trade: Regulations can make it more difficult for businesses to operate in international markets, as they may face additional regulatory requirements and trade barriers. This can limit economic growth and reduce opportunities for businesses to expand their operations.

It is important to note that regulations can also have benefits, such as protecting consumers and the environment, promoting fair competition, and fostering innovation. It’s essential to strike a balance between regulatory requirements and economic growth to ensure that businesses can thrive while also protecting public health and safety. 

The U.S. Standards System effectively provides a “shadow government” that runs parallel to the elected government so that a balance of informed voices are present in formulating what Montesquieu called the “necessary laws”.   See our ABOUT.

More

NIST: Procedures for the Development of American National Standards

ANSI Essential Requirements: Due process requirements for American National Standards

Office of Management & Budget Circulars in Numerical Sequence

Flying Tigers

The Flying Tigers, officially the First American Volunteer Group (AVG), were American pilots led by Claire Lee Chennault, formed in 1941 to aid China against Japanese forces during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Equipped with Curtiss P-40 Warhawks, they were tasked with defending Chinese skies and supply lines. However, the Flying Tigers did not directly stop the Rape of Nanking, which occurred from December 1937 to January 1938, as they were not yet formed.

By the time they saw combat on December 20, 1941, after Pearl Harbor, Nanjing had already fallen. Their role was significant later, defending key areas like Kunming and the Burma Road, disrupting Japanese air operations, and boosting Chinese morale. With only 62 combat-ready pilots, they destroyed 296 Japanese aircraft, but their impact came post-Nanjing, aiding China’s broader resistance against Japanese aggression.

The United States Rescues China from Japanese Genocide

Rape of Nanking: Massacre of the Sino-Japanese War

SAVE OUR SOULS: United States Library of Congress: Wartime Messages from China to the American People (1943–1945)

 

Transfer Equipment

Today at the usual hour we review the switch assemblies commonly found in educational settings for sustaining power continuity.  This technology can be viewed as a system of devices or as an assembly of equipment.  Use the login credentials at the upper right of our home page.

2026 National Electrical Code CMP-15 Public Input Transcript | Article 517.30-  Sources of Power 

2026 National Electrical Code CMP-15 Public Comment Transcript | Article 517.30-  Sources of Power 

System Aspects of Electrical Energy

Electrician University:

Electrical transfer equipment refers to devices and systems used to transfer electrical power from one source to another, ensuring a continuous and reliable power supply. This equipment is essential in various applications, including residential, commercial, and industrial settings.

Some common types of electrical transfer equipment include:

  1. Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS):
    • Automatically transfers the load from the primary power source to a backup power source (such as a generator) during a power outage.
    • Ensures continuous power supply without manual intervention.
  2. Manual Transfer Switch (MTS):
    • Requires manual operation to transfer the load from the primary power source to a backup power source.
    • Used in situations where automatic transfer is not necessary or desired.
  3. Static Transfer Switch (STS):
    • Uses solid-state components to transfer the load between two power sources without any mechanical movement.
    • Provides fast and reliable power transfer, often used in data centers and critical applications.
  4. Bypass Isolation Transfer Switch:
    • Allows maintenance or testing of the transfer switch without interrupting the power supply to the load.
    • Provides a bypass path for the power during maintenance.
  5. Load Transfer Panels:
    • Distributes power from multiple sources to various loads, managing the transfer of power to ensure stability and reliability.
  6. Generator Transfer Switch:
    • Specifically designed for transferring power between the utility grid and a generator.
    • Ensures that the generator can supply power during outages and isolates it when the main power is restored.
  7. Dual Power Automatic Transfer Switch (DPATS):
    • Used in systems with dual power sources to automatically transfer the load between them.
    • Ensures redundancy and reliability in power supply.

These devices are crucial in maintaining the stability and reliability of power systems, especially in environments where power continuity is critical, such as hospitals, data centers, and industrial facilities.

FREE ACCESS: NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE

The National Electrical Code covers Uninterruptible Power Supplies primarily in Article 480, titled “Storage Batteries,” and Article 700, titled “Emergency Systems.”

Here are the relevant sections:

  1. Article 480 – Storage Batteries: This article addresses the installation and maintenance of batteries, including those used in UPS systems. It provides guidelines for battery enclosures, ventilation, and connections to ensure safe operation.
  2. Article 700 – Emergency Systems: While this article focuses on emergency power systems, it includes provisions that can apply to UPS systems used as part of these systems. It covers installation, maintenance, and operational requirements to ensure reliable emergency power.
  3. Article 701 – Legally Required Standby Systems: Similar to Article 700, this article covers systems that must provide power during emergencies but may not require the same level of reliability. UPS systems used in these applications must comply with the relevant provisions.
  4. Article 702 – Optional Standby Systems: This article covers standby power systems that are not legally required but are installed for convenience or operational continuity. It includes guidelines for the installation and maintenance of UPS systems used in these applications.
  5. Article 705 – Interconnected Electric Power Production Sources: This article provides guidelines for systems that include UPS as part of interconnected power sources, such as those in renewable energy setups.
  6. Article 708 – Critical Operations Power Systems (COPS): This article addresses power systems required to support critical operations. UPS systems used in these applications must meet stringent reliability and operational requirements.

For specific details, refer to the current edition of the NEC as it contains the exact language and requirements for compliance.

“What Happens When Data Centers Come to Town”

What Happens When Data Centers Come to Town

Terry Nguyen | BA Public Policy

Ben Green |Assistant Professor, School of Information and Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy

Partner | Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition

Introduction. [Abstract].  The rapid growth of data centers, with their enormous energy and water demands, necessitates targeted policy interventions to mitigate environmental impacts and protect local communities. To address these issues, states with existing data center tax breaks should adopt sustainable growth policies for data centers, mandating energy audits, strict performance standards, and renewable energy integration, while also requiring transparency in energy usage reporting. “Renewable energy additionality” clauses should ensure data centers contribute to new renewable capacity rather than relying on existing resources.  If these measures prove insufficient, states should consider repealing tax breaks to slow unsustainable data center growth. States without tax breaks should avoid such incentives altogether while simultaneously implementing mandatory reporting requirements to hold data centers accountable for their environmental impact. Broader measures should include protecting local tax revenues for schools, regulating utility rate hikes to prevent cost-shifting to consumers, and aligning data center energy demands with state climate goals to avoid prolonging reliance on fossil fuels.

Related:

Sharan Kalwani (Chair, Southeast Michigan Section IEEE): AI and Data Center Demand

Gallery: Other Ways of Knowing Climate Change

 

RELLIS Data and Research Center

November 11, 2025 Update:

The project, located on the Texas A&M University System’s Rellis Campus in Bryan (Brazos County), has faced significant delays. Originally slated to begin construction by November 2021, it was pushed back due to the 2021 Winter Storm Uri. In November 2023, construction was announced to start in 2024, with an expected opening in Q3 2024 (July–September). However, no sources confirm completion or operations.Recent developments include:

  • February 2025: Bryan approved a reinvestment zone on the 25-acre site to attract the data center, with ongoing negotiations.
  • October 2025: Officials clarified no formal plans have been submitted for the site, despite zoning approvals for potential development.

The project’s official site (rellisdrc.com) states “Site will be available soon,” indicating it’s still under preparation. It’s designed as a 225,000 sq ft Tier III facility with colocation, cloud services, and educational spaces for workforce training.

FYI:

Company building RELLIS Campus Data & Research Center files for bankruptcy

Construction to begin on Rellis data center in Texas in 2024

Time Extension Approved By Brazos County Commissioners To Build A Privately Owned Data Center On The RELLIS Campus

The RELLIS Data and Research Center will be a public – private development with Texas A&M University.  The data center will be built on the new RELLIS Campus located in College Station, Texas.  It will offer cloud storage and outstanding managed services. The RELLIS Academy and Research Lab offers the ability for Texas A&M University to give real world data center experience to both students and faculty.

RELLIS Data and Research Center at Texas A&M University

2029 National Electrical Code Panel 3

The University of Michigan has supported the voice of the United States education facility industry since 1993 — the second longest tenure of any voice in the United States.  That voice has survived several organizational changes but remains intact and will continue its Safer-Simpler-Lower Cost-Longer Lasting advocacy on Code Panel 3 in the 2029 Edition.

Today, during our customary “Open Door” teleconference we will examine the technical concepts under the purview of Code Panel 3; among them:

Article 206 Signaling Circuits

Article 300 General Requirements for Wiring Methods and Materials

Article 590 Temporary Installations

Chapter 7 Specific Conditions for Information Technology

Chapter 9 Conductor Properties Tables

Public Input on the 2029 Edition will be received until April 9, 2026.

 

Product Standard for Transfer Switches

Choosing between 3-pole and 4-pole transfer switches (Consulting-Specifying Engineer)

UL 1008 Standard for Safety for Transfer Switch Equipment is principally a product standard and has no direct competitor standard that matches its scope and adoption.  Other standards or certifications may overlap in specific contexts:

  • IEC 60947-6-1 is used globally. It covers similar functionality but differs in testing and application, often requiring adaptation for North American compliance.
  • CSA C22.2 No. 178 is aligned with UL 1008 but specific to Canadian requirements. It is complementary rather than a competitor, as many products seek dual certification.
UL 1008 dominates in the U.S. due to its alignment with the NFPA 70 and NFPA 110; universally applied by commissioning and certificate of occupancy entities.  For high-voltage switches, UL 1008A serves a niche role.

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UL 1008 Transfer Switch Equipment 2022 is the latest revision. Note the $798 – $1,990 price for a legal copy.   The price reflects the following:
  • UL 1008 is developed and updated by a Standards Technical Panel (STP) involving experts from industry, government, and academia. The process includes rigorous testing, research, and consensus-building, which incur significant expenses. Regular revisions, like the 9th edition in 2022, require ongoing investment to ensure compliance with evolving safety and regulatory requirements.
  • UL 1008 targets a niche market of engineers, manufacturers, and inspectors in the electrical power industry. Unlike consumer products, the limited demand for technical standards means costs are spread across fewer buyers, driving up the price per copy.
  • Certification to UL 1008 ensures safety and compliance with codes like NFPA 70, reducing liability risks for manufacturers and users. The high cost reflects the standard’s critical role in ensuring reliable, safe transfer switch equipment for applications like emergency power systems.
  • UL Standards & Engagement operates as a nonprofit, but it recovers costs through sales and licensing. Unlike open-access standards, UL’s proprietary model prioritizes quality and controlled distribution.
  • Single-copy purchases are priced high to encourage subscriptions or enterprise licenses, which offer broader access to multiple standards at a lower per-standard cost.
Throughout the Standards Michigan platform, we place product standards well below our coverage of interoperability standards that support our Safer-Simpler-Lower Cost- Longer Lasting priority.  (See ABOUT).

Transfer Equipment

UM DESIGN GUIDELINE 263000: ENGINE-GENERATOR SYSTEM AND ROOM 

Eaton: 3-Pole and 4-Pole Transfer Switch Switching Characteristics

Allied Trade Specialist

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The MIL-SPEC catalog and its evolution have had a significant impact on various industries beyond the military sector. Many civilian industries have adopted military standards as a benchmark for quality, reliability, and compatibility in their products and processes.

World War II Era:

The MIL-SPEC system traces its roots back to the World War II era when the U.S. military faced challenges in coordinating manufacturing efforts across multiple suppliers.  To address these challenges, the military began developing specifications and standards that detailed the requirements for various equipment and materials, including dimensions, materials, performance criteria, and testing procedures.

Post-World War II:

After World War II, the MIL-SPEC catalog expanded significantly to cover a wide range of military equipment, ranging from electronics and aircraft components to clothing and food supplies.  The standards were continuously updated and revised based on technological advancements, lessons learned, and evolving military needs.

Evolution into MIL-STD:

In the 1950s and 1960s, the MIL-SPEC system evolved into the Military Standard (MIL-STD) system to provide even more comprehensive and detailed specifications.  MIL-STD documents incorporated a broader scope of requirements, including design criteria, quality control processes, and test methodologies.  The MIL-STD system aimed to ensure consistent design and manufacturing practices across contractors and suppliers.

MIL-STD Transition to Commercial Standards:

Over time, the reliance on MIL-STDs started to decline, and there was a shift towards adopting commercial standards whenever possible.  This transition allowed the military to benefit from the advancements and cost efficiencies of commercial technologies.  However, certain critical military-specific standards, such as those related to security and specialized equipment, continued to be maintained within the MIL-STD framework.

DoD’s Transition to Performance-Based Specifications:

In recent years, the DoD has been moving away from prescriptive specifications (MIL-STDs) towards performance-based specifications. Performance-based specifications focus on defining the desired outcomes and performance requirements while allowing contractors greater flexibility in meeting those requirements. This approach encourages innovation, cost-effectiveness, and broader industry participation in military contracts.

Welding Standards

 

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