from MARIA MACHARIA in Nairobi, Kenya
Kenya Bureau
NAIROBI, (CAJ News) – SCHNEIDER Electric has introduced Vivace E to the East African market, transforming the conventional switch and socket into a contemporary design feature while combining aesthetics with functionality, safety and performance.
Part of Schneider Electric’s established Vivace range, which has been trusted by customers for more than two decades, Vivace E features a slim profile, frameless panel and curved corners designed to complement modern interiors.
Geraldine Sande, Channel Sales Leader at Schneider Electric East Africa, said switches and sockets were among the products people interacted with every day, making design and usability important considerations.
“Vivace E reflects our understanding that customers want more from these everyday products. They want something that looks beautiful, feels good to use and delivers the quality and reliability for which Schneider Electric is known,” she said.
The range has been designed with attention to details intended to improve everyday use.
Its engineered faceplate provides a smooth touch, light pressure and firm rebound, creating a tactile experience when the switch is operated.
Vivace E also targets the hospitality sector, incorporating features such as Do Not Disturb (DND) indicators, keycard and mechanical curtain switches, bell switches, night foot lamps, panic buttons and international switched sockets.
The range includes features intended to simplify installation and maintenance.
Slots beneath the cover plate allow individual switches or the entire cover to be removed using quick-release latches, enabling electricians to work more efficiently and simplifying future maintenance.
Enlarged socket terminals accommodate two 4 mm² cables, facilitating wiring and connections where larger cables are required. Mounting screws are also designed to support straightforward installation.
Safety features include double-pole switched sockets and integrated safety shutters designed to prevent accidental contact with live parts.
Schneider Electric said the range also reflects its commitment to sustainable product development, with materials compliant with applicable REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) and RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances in Electrical and Electronic Equipment) regulations.
Technical features include a slim, frameless design with an edge-to-edge cover plate, Glossy White and Matte Black finishes, rounded corners, a smooth-touch mechanism, USB A+C switched sockets and a dedicated 21 W USB charger.
The switches include a 16AX rating for higher short-duration switching currents and dual grounding connectors on double-pole switches.
The range complies with applicable British Standards (BS) and International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) standards.
Schneider Electric said Vivace E combines contemporary interior design with the functionality, safety and reliability expected from modern electrical solutions, reinforcing the role of switches and sockets as both practical and aesthetic elements of buildings.
– CAJ News