Members of the RS Components Electrical and Automation sales team have successfully completed Schneider Electrics’ Gold Level training course on variable speed drives (VSDs). Gold is the highest level training programme available from Schneider Electric and is designed to provide an in-depth technical knowledge and expertise on the chosen subject.
Led by experienced trainer Andy Turtle, the two-day course covered all aspects of the operation and capabilities of VSDs including the application of the products and practical demonstrations to the point where trainees are able to set up the drives themselves.
In 2006, RS introduced the Altivar range of VSDs from Telemecanique, a brand of Schneider Electric, as part of its extended range of products. The company now offers the Altivar (ATV) 11, 31, 61 and 71 ranges for applications including materials handling and process machines, conveyors, garage doors, grinders, through to fans, pumps and compressors, depending on the range chosen. 
RS works closely with Schneider Electric, and has undertaken more than 130 man-days of training with the company during 2007. This has not only helped to forge a strong relationship between the two companies, but has given RS the ability to offer its customers the comprehensive technical support that Schneider Electric insists upon.
In praise of the training, Peter Woodcock, Electrical & Automation Technical Support at RS commented: “It was one of the most productive and worthwhile courses we could have attended. We have really benefited and gained a much greater understanding of these products. I would like to congratulate Schneider Electric on the content and style of the training, which turned what could have been a mundane subject into a fun and interesting course.”
Kevin Jones of Schneider Electric’s Services and Projects commented: “While our modern VSDs are easy to use, we appreciate that it’s the applications that present technical challenges at times.  It’s therefore a vital service to the customer to be able to assist them in selecting and installing the drive to best fulfil their need”.