by KMB Communications | Jan 21, 2025 | D-Tools, News
Web-based business management software adds comprehensive Inventory Management, Job Costing, and Convenience Fees, enhancing its award-winning SaaS platform.
Concord, CA – January 21, 2025 – D-Tools, a leading provider of core business management software for electronic systems contractors, is excited to announce the launch of major new features for D-Tools Cloud, including a fully integrated Inventory Management module and Job Costing capabilities. Additionally, the platform now supports the ability for users to charge clients Convenience Fees for credit card payments taken through the D-Tools Payments feature in D-Tools Cloud, offering integrators even more flexibility and profitability.
“As a complete end-to-end, cloud-based software solution for system integrators, D-Tools has moved beyond the basics of generating proposals, managing projects, and selling service plans”, said Randy Stearns, CEO, D-Tools. “D-Tools Cloud is now attacking head-on the toughest challenges facing system integrators – tracking inventory, assessing project profitability, and managing cash. The release of the new inventory module, job costing capabilities, and convenience fee option demonstrates our commitment to going the extra mile, and there’s a lot more to come in 2025. Hold on to your hats!”
Comprehensive Inventory Management
D-Tools Cloud’s new Inventory Management functionality provides integrators with a seamless solution for tracking and managing inventory. Effective inventory management leads to on-time and on-budget project completion, the efficient use of labor resources, and improved cash flow.
Key Features Include:
- Streamlined Purchasing Workflows: Simplify and optimize product procurement for both project-specific and stock items by knowing what’s on hand in advance.
- Bar/QR Code Scanning: Receive items directly into inventory via a handheld device and assign them to designated locations in the warehouse.
- Real-Time Item Tracking: Stay up-to-date as inventory moves from purchasing through receiving and staging, rack assembly, and delivery to site.
- Smart Inventory Allocation: Reserve and allocate items for specific projects to ensure availability when they are needed in the field.
- Location Management: Assign and transfer items between warehouses, vans, and job sites, for improved accessibility and organization.
- Efficient Re-Ordering: Never run out of critical stock items with automated re-order alerts whenever minimum stock levels are reached.
The new Inventory Management solution benefits every team member, including business owners, project managers, service managers, field technicians, procurement, and accounting. Inventory Management is now included in all D-Tools Cloud subscription plans.
On Tuesday, February 4 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. Eastern time, D-Tools will be conducting a webinar to walk through the new Inventory Management features. Register today at Registration to reserve your spot.
Accurate Business Reporting Starts with Job Costing
Business management reporting enables business owners to build and operate more effective and profitable businesses. In particular, accurate job costing leads to more precise labor estimation, a reduction in design oversights, and more profitable projects over time. By accurately allocating burdened labor and landed material costs and comparing these actual costs against budget estimates in proposals, D-Tools Cloud faithfully exposes whether projects, even individual phases of projects, are under or over budget and by how much.
The first in a series of business reporting tools, Job Costing offers business owners the ability to see the business more clearly and make better business decisions.
Convenience Fees Protect Margins
D-Tools Cloud users requesting credit card payments now have the option to add a 3% Convenience Fee to client invoices. By enabling the 3% convenience fee on credit card transactions, integrators:
- Maintain profitability by avoiding processing fees;
- Allow clients to pay electronically without having to look up their banking information, and
- Provide transparency and compliance through clearly-written disclosures.
The new Convenience Fee feature is part of the broader D-Tools Payments* solution within D-Tools Cloud, designed to empower integrators with embedded, cost-effective payment processing and reporting while enabling a seamless workflow for clients.
*D-Tools Payments is available to U.S. D-Tools Cloud subscribers.
Expanding a Powerful Toolset
With these new features, D-Tools Cloud continues to build on its robust, end-to-end platform which already includes:
- Sales pipeline management and CRM administration
- Intelligent visual quoting and system design
- Multimedia proposals with e-sign and payment collection
- Project management
- Service management
- Project procurement using supplier-authorized integrator-specific pricing
- Scheduling, time tracking, and task management for field technicians
- Back-office management, accounting integrations, and reporting
For more information about these new capabilities or to schedule a demo, visit www.d-tools.com or contact [email protected].
About D-Tools
D-Tools, Inc. is a leading provider of business management software for electronics systems contractors worldwide. For more than 25 years, D-Tools’ award-winning solutions have empowered thousands of low-voltage systems integrators to streamline their business operations for greater efficiency and improved profitability. Boasting an integrated product library complete with up-to-date specifications and unique dealer-specific pricing, the D-Tools Cloud and System Integrator™ (SI) platforms enable end-to-end management of the systems integration project lifecycle. From sales and system design through installation and ongoing service, D-Tools’ purpose-built software products ensure accurate detail that directly benefits the bottom line. For more information, visit www.d-tools.com.
Find product updates and related information by following D-Tools on Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.
by KMB Communications | Jan 17, 2025 | News, Torus Power
TORONTO, ON, CANADA (January 16, 2025) – Torus Power Inc. proudly joins the Lightapalooza 2025 exhibit hall, emphasizing to attendees the importance of clean, stable electrical voltage to the performance of advanced AV systems. For the first time at this rapidly growing conference and trade show, Torus Power will present a comprehensive lineup of isolation transformers, including models from its flagship RM and AVR series.
Torus Power AVR-2 ELITE 8 CE
Highlights include wall- and rack-mounted versions of the AVR-2 Elite Series with cloud-based control and monitoring, the compact and budget-friendly TOT series, and the top-of-the-line RM20—all purposefully designed to meet the power demands and protection needs of custom AV installations. Torus Power will also unveil the Armada Series 2+, an innovative whole-house surge protection solution.
The Value of Stable Power in AV Systems
“High-end home theaters and high-performance audio systems demand substantial amounts of electrical power. Fluctuations in power quality can degrade audio and video performance, leading to system integrator challenges and customer dissatisfaction,” says Torus Power president and COO Kevin Main. “Our isolation transformers and power management solutions are engineered to address these issues by delivering clean, stable power that enhances every aspect of AV performance. Whether it’s lowering the noise floor for improved audio dynamics or stabilizing voltage to ensure consistent video quality, we provide integrators with the tools they need to create exceptional experiences for their clients.
Torus Power RM 16 CE Silver
At the Torus Power exhibit, attendees will learn how the company’s advanced isolation transformers address these issues by electrically isolating AV components from the incoming power source. This process eliminates electrical transients, significantly lowers the noise floor, and enhances audio performance with greater dynamics, imaging, and bass response. Meanwhile, video quality benefits from sharper images, deeper blacks, enhanced contrast, and richer colors. Additionally, connected components gain robust protection from surges, spikes, and brownouts, ensuring consistent performance in the face of power fluctuations.
Torus Power Solutions on Display
- RM Series
The RM Series remains the industry benchmark for luxury home theaters and high-end home audio systems. With models ranging from 7 to 200 Amps, this feature-rich series offers toroidal isolation, noise filtering, high instantaneous current capability, and advanced lightning and surge protection.
- AVR-2 Elite Series
Designed to handle variable incoming line voltages, the AVR-2 Elite Series protects connected equipment using multiple transformer input taps to deliver stable output voltage within an optimal range of 120V (+/- 4V). Its wide operating range of 90-135VAC makes it a perfect fit for installations with fluctuating voltage conditions.
- TOT AVR Elite 10
Compact yet powerful, the TOT AVR Elite 10 offers robust power conditioning in a smaller chassis, making it an affordable alternative to Torus Power’s higher-end models. It delivers stable voltage regulation to keep equipment running optimally.
- Armada Series 2+
As the exclusive North American distributor for Armada Surge Protection’s custom integration channel, Torus Power introduces the Armada Series 2+, a whole-house surge protector for 120/240 volt installations. Featuring patented Power Pressure technology, it offers enhanced resilience and durability, attaching directly to the electrical breaker panel to safeguard entire home systems from power disturbances.
Torus Power invites attendees to visit its exhibit at Lightapalooza 2025 to learn more about its innovative power management solutions and their transformative impact on AV system performance and reliability.
For more information about Torus Power, visit www.toruspower.com and follow Torus Power on Twitter and Facebook.
About Torus Power
Toroidal isolation power transformers by Torus Power are the world’s finest clean power source for audio, video, and control systems. Dramatically increasing performance levels of connected AV components from video displays to amplifiers and powered speakers, Torus Power products utilize Plitron Manufacturing’s patented NBT technologies and medical-grade toroidal isolation transformers to eliminate virtually all power-line noise artifacts and protect equipment from potentially damaging AC power line events while increasing system reliability and extending product life. Torus Power products deliver higher levels of instantaneous current which ensures that dynamic components and high-performance systems are never compromised, nor starved for power.
Built to rigorous specifications in Toronto, Canada, Torus Power’s toroidal transformers—the heart of the Torus Power product line—utilize similar technologies as those found in leading AV amplifiers as well as in industrial, medical, broadcast, telecommunications, IT, power conditioning, and energy management applications. For additional information visit www.toruspower.com and follow Torus Power onLinkedIn, and Facebook.
All products, product names, trademarks, and registrations mentioned are the property of their respective owners, all rights reserved.
Media Contact
For interviews or reviews please contact Katye (McGregor) Bennett of KMB Communications, Inc. by phoning (406) 446-1283 or emailing [email protected].
by KMB Communications | Jan 17, 2025 | News, Wall-Smart
January 14, 2025 – WALL-SMART, a global leader in custom mounting solutions, is redefining the aesthetic and functional integration of smart home technologies at Lightapalooza 2025. Renowned for over a decade of innovation, WALL-SMART will debut its latest recessed mounts, specifically engineered to install keypads from leading lighting control manufacturers flush with any wall surface. This cutting-edge approach delivers a sleek, seamless finish that transforms technology into an integral part of the architecture.
By partnering with top lighting and automation brands such as Crestron, Josh.ai, Legrand, Lutron, Savant, Snap One, Black Nova, Apple, Basalte, and others. WALL-SMART underscores the remarkable versatility of its product lineup. No matter the brand of lighting keypad, systems integrators can rely on WALL-SMART to provide discreet mounting solutions that preserve the design integrity of residential and commercial spaces. With these third-party manufacturers also exhibiting at Lightapalooza, attendees will have the chance to explore how WALL-SMART mounts enhance the appearance and functionality of cutting-edge lighting and control systems.
Seamless Integration Across Diverse Surfaces
WALL-SMART’s precision-engineered mounts are designed for both new construction and retrofit installations within a wide range of wall surfaces, including drywall, wood, metal, stone, and glass. This unparalleled adaptability ensures that integrators can create concealed, elegant solutions in virtually any environment.
In addition to mounts for lighting keypads, WALL-SMART will also showcase custom solutions for other technologies, such as Apple iPad tablets, Hunter Douglas motorized shade gateway Josh.ai voice assistants, and more, further solidifying its position as a leader in sleek technology integration.
“These products, housed in WALL-SMART’s custom mounts, represent the future of smart lighting technology, where exceptional performance and sophisticated design seamlessly coexist,” says Galia Ben-Dor, Co-CEO and founder of WALL-SMART. “We’re proud to empower systems integrators with solutions that prioritize both functionality and aesthetic excellence.”
Exclusive Training Opportunity
For systems integrators, designers, and architects eager to deepen their expertise, WALL-SMART will host a manufacturer training session on January 22 from 9:30–10:30 a.m. Attendees will gain practical insights into installation techniques, system compatibility, and essential considerations for achieving a flawless, concealed finish. From best practices to time-saving tips, this session equips professionals with the knowledge needed to deliver efficient and visually stunning integrations.
Experience the WALL-SMART Project Transformation at Booth #216
WALL-SMART invites Lightapalooza attendees to visit Booth 216 to explore the transformative potential of its custom mounts. Discover firsthand how these innovative solutions elevate spaces by integrating advanced technology without compromising design.
For more information, please visit www.wall-smart.com.
About WALL-SMART Ltd.
WALL-SMART is the leading designer and manufacturer of custom flush ceiling and wall mounts for smart home devices, including tablets, touchscreens, Wi-Fi access points, security cameras, voice assistants, and more. Dedicated to providing cutting-edge concealment solutions for technology in new and existing homes, WALL-SMART inspires homes that are both technologically advanced and exceptionally beautiful. A wide range of products, combined with simple installation, and fast, hassle-free worldwide shipping, poises WALL-SMART as a valuable smart home resource for home systems integrators, home builders and contractors, architects, and designers.
For more information about WALL-SMART, please find and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Media Contact
For interviews, reviews, or more information, please contact Katye (McGregor) Bennett of KMB Communications by phoning (425) 328-8640 or emailing [email protected].
All products, product names, trademarks, and registrations mentioned are the property of their respective owners, all rights reserved.
by KMB Communications | Jan 17, 2025 | Kordz, News, Trade Show news
Innovative USB-C cable solutions by Kordz launching at ISE 2025 will equip integrators to overcome common USB-C challenges and meet growing demand for reliable, high-performance connectivity across diverse applications.
(January 20, 2025) – As part of Kordz’ ongoing mission to simplify the installation of high-performance cabling, at ISE 2025 it announces its highly anticipated entry into the USB-C cable market with the debut of new PRO Active Optical and Passive USB-C Cables. After building a reputation for solving many of the industry’s early-stage HDMI cable challenges, Kordz has engineered a range of full-featured USB4 Gen2 and USB3.2 Gen2 cables “Kordzified” to deliver reliable, hassle-free connectivity and meet the demanding requirements professional integrators encounter when designing advanced USB-C-connected systems. Available in passive and active optical options, the range accommodates diverse project requirements, from desk setups to extended AV connections, for both commercial and residential applications.
“Integrators have expressed to us myriad frustrations with USB-C in their installations and we’ve spent the time getting under the hood of this technology to get the solution right. As USB-C plays an increasingly critical role in systems design, our new professional grade cable range is designed to equip integrators to capitalise on the trend with less hassles,” says Kordz Managing Director, James Chen. “By offering reliable, high-performance solutions tailored to modern connectivity needs, we’re helping integrators enhance their service offerings and meet the growing demand for reliable USB-C systems more easily and profitably.”
The new PRO Passive USB-C Cables are USB4 Gen2 certified and support high-bandwidth data transmission up to 20Gbps and 4K60 DisplayPort video, plus 240W power delivery on lengths from 0.5 to 2 metres. A 60W version is available at 3 metres.
For integrators requiring USB-C cable of longer lengths from 5 metres to 10 metres, Kordz offers the PRO Active Optical USB-C Cable. It supports full-featured USB3.2 Gen2 functionality for 10Gbps data transfer, 4K60 DisplayPort video and 60W power delivery.
Among other handy design features, the lightweight and compact polycarbonate connector streamlines installation and minimises strain on device ports, while an internal metal shell provides enhanced EMI shielding for reliable signal integrity and connector durability. Combined with their exceptional performance, this results in a cable range that is very useful for complex AV installations. Moreover, each Kordz USB-C Cable undergoes rigorous quality testing to ensure consistent performance, is appropriately fire-rated and backed by a two year warranty.
Where to See Kordz at ISE 2025
See Kordz’ new PRO Active Optical and Passive USB-C cables at Stand #2E310, along with its new line of Cat 6 Outdoor network cables, enhanced HDMI cables and networking offerings, and other professional grade connectivity solutions. For more information, go to www.kordz.com.
About Kordz
Kordz is the connectivity brand for integrators, by integrators. A multi-award-winning global industry leader in professional grade connectivity products, Kordz’ team of seasoned former integrators is on a mission to ‘Kordzify’ and optimise technology for professionals by designing, engineering and manufacturing products that deliver ease and profitability through a seamless installation experience with high performance results that today’s tech-savvy end-users expect. With a wide range of robust, fast and effective solutions backed by expert technical support, Kordz helps integrators around the world meet the evolving cabling requirements of a diverse range of residential and commercial environments. For more information about Kordz, please visit kordz.com and follow the company @kordzglobal on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.
Media Contact
For interviews, reviews, and more information please contact Katye (McGregor) Bennett of KMB Communications at (425) 328-8640 or [email protected]
by KMB Communications | Jan 15, 2025 | Daisy, News
Strategic franchise partnership enhances Daisy’s presence in the luxury design market, representing a significant step forward in the integration of technology and design.
Naples, FL, January 15, 2025 — Daisy, the first national home and small business technology installation and services company, proudly welcomes Clive Daniel Home, a national leader in bespoke luxury interiors, to its growing network of franchise locations. With the addition of a new Daisy franchise in Naples, Florida, where Clive Daniel Home has a major showroom, this collaboration reinforces Daisy’s presence in Florida while enhancing Clive Daniel Home’s position as a leader in total home design.
(left to right) Brian Wiersma, Daisy head of operations; Tyler Nary, Clive Daniel Home Automation director; Nick Perry, Daisy SVP sales
“Clive Daniel Home has long been synonymous with luxury interiors and an unparalleled client experience,” says Hagan Kappler, co-founder and CEO of Daisy. “Joining forces better enables interior designers to meet their clients’ needs for elegant, fashionable design and for cutting-edge home technology. This partnership aligns with Daisy’s mission to be a beloved brand by installing, integrating, and maintaining the highest quality technology, without sacrificing design.”
With its comprehensive support for audio, video, home theaters, automated lighting and shades, advanced security systems, and Wi-Fi networking, Daisy provides ongoing support and stewardship for homeowners to guide them through their technology needs throughout their lives. Daisy’s unwavering commitment to ongoing client care reflects Clive Daniel Home’s meticulous attention to detail, delivering a truly personalized and seamless experience from concept to completion.
“Our mission has always been to craft extraordinary spaces that elevate how our clients live,” says Daniel Lubner, CEO of Clive Daniel Home. “Adding Daisy’s expertise in smart technology allows us to deliver integrated solutions that are as functional as they are beautiful. Together, we’re redefining what it means to provide a complete home design experience.”
The Clive Daniel Home team will be well-equipped and quick to deliver exceptional service thanks to Daisy’s franchise support system, which includes comprehensive product, training, sales and marketing, client and technician support.
What started as a pilot between Daisy’s Coral Springs, FL branch and Clive Daniel’s beautiful Boca Raton, FL location, quickly blossomed into a successful strategic relationship between the two companies.
“As a start-up comprised of local branches run by entrepreneurial leaders, Daisy is well-positioned for fast paced and innovative growth,” said Dion Persson, Daisy’s co-founder and Chief Growth Officer. “Our teams run pilots to test new ideas and if successful, they have the full support of the Daisy team behind them. This next chapter of the Clive Daniel Home partnership is a great example of that, and we look forward to seeing what our team unlocks next.”
To learn more about Daisy’s services visit daisyco.com and to explore how to join Daisy’s team, visit daisyco.com/careers. To learn more about converting your existing custom integration company to a Daisy franchise, visit daisyco.com/for-integrators, or to start a new business, visit daisyco.com/franchising. For interior design firms looking to expand their presence with cutting-edge technology as part of their design solution, reach out to [email protected].
For more information about Clive Daniel Home and its design services, visit clivedaniel.com.
Download images here.
About Daisy
Daisy is a national home and small business technology installation and services company. Daisy partners with builders, architects, designers and homeowners to create, install and service optimal audio visual, lighting, shades and security designs to enhance their client’s experiences in their homes and offices. Daisy also provides ongoing support to steward clients through their lifetime technology journeys. For more information visit daisyco.com.
About Clive Daniel Home
Founded in 2011 by father-son duo Clive and Daniel Lubner, Clive Daniel Home is Southwest Florida’s premier destination for luxury home furnishings and custom residential and commercial interior design services. Since its inception, the brand has won more than 430 awards for design excellence, including Best New Showroom in the USA. With an 85,000 square-foot flagship in Naples, a 70,000 square-foot showroom in Boca Raton, a 70,000 square-foot showroom in Sarasota, and a 50,000 square-foot showroom in Fort Myers. Clive Daniel Home offers an unparalleled mix of contemporary, traditional, and casual designs. For more information visit clivedaniel.com.
Daisy Media Contact
For interviews or more information please contact Katye McGregor Bennett of KMB Communications by phoning (406) 446-1283 or emailing [email protected].
All brands, products, product names, trademarks, and registrations mentioned are the property of their respective owners, all rights reserved.
