Empower Your Architectural Projects: Lighting Fixtures & Controls

by PORT on May 28, 2024 3:05:35 PM

Why you should consider PORT for your architectural lighting fixtures & integrated controls.

May 2024 -

Why PORT

Why choose PORT to supply your fixture package instead of handling it in-house? One of the primary advantages lies in our extensive partnerships and dealership agreements with leading lighting fixture manufacturers.

This helps us understand these products thoroughly, including their installation process and how they work together smoothly.

When collaborating with Electrical Contractors on fixture procurement, our process begins by reviewing the contractor’s drawings. We examine the drawings to ensure we do not overlook anything crucial, rather than simply providing a price quote. If there are any overlaps or conflicts among manufacturers, we adeptly suggest adjustments.

Our assessment encompasses various factors such as fixture quantity per run, voltage considerations, and overall system coherence. By carefully looking at plans first, we can help create a complete and practical lighting solution before buying anything.

Choosing a fixture package involves numerous factors to consider.

Selecting A Fixture Package

PORT provided lighting integration, programming, and controls for 103 CityPoint.

Exterior Lighting at 103 CityPoint in Waltham MA Photo by: Raj Das Photography

Manufacturers typically include a control system with their package if the customer does not specify one. This ensures that the buyer receives all necessary components.

When we provide integration services, we can provide a controls package that works for the entire project, not just one brand. Regrettably, these individual manufacturer provided controls may not integrate seamlessly with fixtures or controls from other manufacturers.

We can save money by using one control system instead of multiple systems and services from different manufacturers.

During integration, our team provides one control package for the whole project to coordinate all systems smoothly. Clients only need to contact one person for any issues, rather than contacting multiple manufacturers for different fixture problems.

This simplifies the process and makes it easier for clients to get their issues resolved quickly. By having a single point of contact, clients can avoid confusion and streamline communication. This ensures that we address any problems efficiently and effectively.

When systems need to work together, manufacturers often avoid programming fixtures from different companies to ensure smooth integration. At PORT, we combine all systems into one control panel for easy problem-solving. We are always ready to handle any issues.

Support From Procurement To Programming

The level of support offered by PORT varies depending on the specific project requirements. An advantage of engaging with our team prior to installation is our ability to proactively address fixtures.

We create a detailed map that shows the placement of each fixture. The map includes important information such as the job name, location, and DMX address. Each fixture has this information labeled for easy reference. This helps us track where to place each fixture during the installation process.

This comprehensive approach enables the installing contractor to precisely position the fixtures based on our provided labeling and mapping.

This process has many benefits. It makes installation easier by using fixtures that are pre-addressed and identified. This helps prevent damage, breakage, or using the wrong fixtures. When the system activates, it positions everything correctly, resulting in significant time savings.

If we don't do this step, our team will need to locate and map each fixture individually. This will end up taking more time. This helps the contractor know where to put each fixture with our labels and map.

PORT provided design, installation, and integration of all color changing lighting controls for the Prudential Center.

Photo by: Nancy Reed Charleston

Our team's preparation makes it easy to replace these fixtures in the future. In the future, the building owner can look at the labeled sticker if they need to change a fixture. This will help them put the new fixture in the right spot easily.

This streamlined approach extends to long-term service and maintenance. When a customer contacts us about a broken fixture, they can easily find the right one by looking at the label. Consequently, we can promptly provide all necessary details to resolve the issue, facilitating efficient problem-solving.

Also, this process saves our team time by programming projects off-site, potentially saving days of work. We assist electricians by answering their questions, saving them from contacting multiple manufacturers for assistance.

PORT provided lighting design, installation, and integration for The Godfrey Hotel in Boston, MA.

Godfrey 3-2