Inspired by his involvement in the development of C-Tec’s new touchscreen controlled ZFP range of analogue fire panels, Richard, an 18-year old apprentice at the company, has actually invented a 12V power supply with an LCD screen that displays voltage as part of his HNC Electronic Engineering course. Richard’s tutors at Wigan and Leigh College were so impressed with his design they nominated him for the prestigious MBDA Award for Innovation.

Says Richard: “I was surprised but very happy to receive an award. Studying while working is difficult sometimes but this award makes all my hard work seem worthwhile.”

Said Stephen Collier, C-Tec’s Manufacturing Director: “We are delighted with Richard’s overall progress. Such initiative and flair is rare in one so young and Richard astounds us on a daily basis with his skills and enthusiasm for electronics. The award is very well-deserved.”

C-Tec is one of the UK’s leading manufacturers of life-safety equipment including fire alarm control panels, voice alarms, call systems, power supplies and disabled refuge systems. The company’s new range of ZFP 2-8 loop analogue fire alarm control panels represent a major breakthrough in fire alarm technology with their flexible modular design and massive capability.