Office Power & Data Module Buyers Guide

In today's increasingly connected workplace, ensuring easy access to power and data is essential for productivity and efficiency. Desktop power modules offer a neat and convenient solution, bringing electrical sockets, USB charging, and data ports directly to where users need them – on or in their desks, or integrated into meeting and boardroom tables. This guide will help UK buyers navigate the options and choose the right power modules for their office.

What are Desktop Power Modules?

Desktop power modules are compact units designed to provide accessible power and data connectivity directly on or within a work surface. Rather than relying on wall sockets that might be inconveniently located, these modules allow users to easily plug in laptops, monitors, charge mobile devices, and connect to the network without trailing cables across the floor.

Why Use Desktop Power Modules?

Integrating power modules into office furniture offers numerous benefits:

• Convenience: Instant access to power and charging points reduces time wasted searching for available sockets.
• Tidiness: Centralised connection points and integrated cable management options help keep desks and meeting tables neat and organised, reducing clutter.
• Safety: Minimising trailing cables lowers the risk of trips and falls. Using modules compliant with UK safety standards ensures electrical safety.
• Productivity: Employees can keep devices charged and connected, ensuring uninterrupted workflow during meetings or at their workstations.
• Aesthetics: Modules come in various designs and finishes to complement office furniture and maintain a professional look.

Types of Power Modules and Connections

Desktop power modules offer a variety of outlets to meet different needs:

• UK Mains Sockets (Type G): Standard 3-pin sockets for plugging in laptops, monitors, desk lamps, etc. Modules will contain one or more individually fused sockets (commonly 3.15A or 5A) to comply with UK safety standards (see BS 6396 below).
• USB Charging Ports: Essential for charging smartphones, tablets, and other USB-powered devices.
  • USB-A: The traditional rectangular USB port.
  • USB-C: The newer, reversible port, often offering faster charging (Power Delivery - PD) and sometimes data transfer capabilities. Many modern modules include both USB-A and faster USB-C PD ports.
• Data Ports (RJ45): Ethernet ports for wired network connections (Cat 5e, Cat 6, or Cat 6A). Crucial for reliable internet access, especially in areas with high data usage or for devices without Wi-Fi.
• Multimedia Ports: Including HDMI, VGA, 3.5mm audio jacks, etc., particularly useful in meeting and boardroom tables for connecting presentation equipment.
• Wireless Charging: Some advanced modules may include an integrated wireless charging pad for compatible devices.

Installation Methods: How They Fit Your Furniture

Power modules can be installed in several ways:

• In-Surface / Integrated: These modules are typically recessed into a cut-out in the desktop or table surface, sitting flush or slightly raised. They often offer a very clean and seamless look. Some designs feature lids that close when not in use to hide the outlets.
• On-Surface / Desktop: These units sit on top of the desk or table and are usually fixed in place with clamps or screws. They are easier to install than in-surface modules as they don't require cutting into the furniture, making them a good option for existing desks or tables.
• Clamp-On: Similar to on-surface, but they attach to the edge of the desk or table using adjustable clamps. This provides a secure fit without needing tools or permanent fixings on the surface itself, ideal for temporary setups or when avoiding damage to the furniture.

Key Considerations When Buying

• Required Outlets: Determine the mix and quantity of power, USB, data, and multimedia ports needed per user or per meeting space. Consider the types of devices used in your office.
• Cable Length and Connectivity: How will the module connect to the main power supply? Modules usually come with a "starter" cable that plugs into a wall socket or an existing under-desk power supply. Consider the required length of this cable and whether you need interconnecting cables to link multiple modules (daisy-chaining) or connect to a floor box. Many systems use Wieland GST connectors for easy and safe modular wiring.
• Compatibility with Furniture: Ensure the module's installation method is suitable for your desks or tables (e.g., desktop thickness for clamps, space for under-surface components). For in-surface modules, check the required cut-out dimensions.
• Safety Standards: Crucially for the UK, ensure modules comply with BS 6396: Electrical Systems in Office Furniture and Educational Furniture. This standard specifies requirements such as individual socket fusing (typically 3.15A or 5A per socket, with limits on the total number of sockets per 13A supply), cable management, and segregation of power and data. Compliance with BS 5733 (for the electrical accessory itself) and potentially BS 7671 (Wiring Regulations) is also relevant, particularly for installations not connected via a standard 13A plug. Look for products certified to these standards.
• Design and Finish: Choose modules that match or complement the material and colour of your desks and tables for a cohesive look.
• Modularity and Customisation: Can the module configurations be changed or expanded later? Some systems allow you to swap out different types of outlets.
• Durability and Quality: Office furniture and accessories experience daily use. Invest in modules made from robust materials that will withstand wear and tear.
• Budget: Prices vary based on the number and type of outlets, installation method, brand, and materials.

Specific Considerations for Desks vs. Meeting/Boardroom Tables

• Individual Desks: Focus on power and USB charging for personal devices, and often a data port. Cable management from the desk to the floor power source is important. On-surface or clamp-on modules are popular for ease of installation, while in-surface offers a cleaner look for new furniture.
• Meeting and Boardroom Tables: The emphasis shifts to shared access and often includes multimedia connectivity. Central in-surface modules or multiple units distributed along the table are common. Inclusion of HDMI, VGA, or network ports for presentations is key. Cable management beneath the table needs to handle connections from multiple users and potentially connect back to wall displays or floor boxes.

Budget

The cost of desktop power modules varies widely, from around £30-50 for a simple on-surface unit with a couple of power sockets, to several hundred pounds for integrated modules with a full suite of power, USB, data, and AV connections, particularly for larger meeting tables. Remember to factor in the cost of connecting cables and potentially professional installation.