The 2004 AHR Expo, to be held Jan. 26-28, 2004 in Anaheim, Calif., is already showing a larger presence than previous West Coast AHR Expos, with more than 300,000 sq. ft. of exhibition space already sold.

International exhibitors attribute for a lot of this presence, with 216 companies from 33 countries. Forty of these companies come from Europe, three dozen from the Pacific Rim, and more than 100 from Canada.

Highlights of the AHR Expo include two show floor pavilions: building automation & control and software. AHR Expo's endorsing associations will conduct free educational sessions on topics such as principles of business management and current technical developments. Complimentary building automation sessions will also explore four areas: marketing convergence, online capabilities, an XML update and wireless controls. ASHRAE is hosting sessions that will include short courses with a nominal tuition charge and a free public session on improving residential HVAC energy efficiency in conjunction with its annual winter meeting.