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Effective SMS solution suits Next G/3G mobile networks (01/12)

The EDAC SMS315 unit is an effective solution for controlling, monitoring and interrogating your pumping application via SMS messaging.

Designed for use with Next G/3G mobile networks, it features a robust metal enclosure and easy access LED lights for the indication of full system status. The unit includes 8 inputs and 4 outputs which can be programmed to suit remote start/stop and system status notification.

The SMS315 unit is ideally suited to temperature, humidity, level, flow and pressure monitoring applications.

A range of accessories are available to complement the unit including a high gain antennae for areas with low reception, battery backup in case of power failure and surge diverter to protect the unit from lightning and/or power strikes.

Do I need a radio survey? (01/12)

Considering a remote communications solution for your pump or pump system? If so, it is likely that the answer to this question is YES, you do need to conduct a Radio Frequency (RF) survey.

An RF survey, also known as a wireless site survey, is the first and most important step in setting up a wireless network. This is because it is difficult to accurately predict the behaviour and/or propagation of radio waves in a given environment. There are a number of issues which can arise to prevent the RF signal from reaching all access points in your system. The most common example of this is interference. Regardless of the antennae used, interference from buildings, trees, hills and other obstacles can cause the RF radiation pattern to be irregular, unpredictable and inadequate.

An RF survey is used to test for any interference, discover RF coverage areas and identify the optimum number and placement of any wireless devices or access points required to ensure effective remote communications. In situations where RF interference is high, solutions can be identified to overcome this issue (for example the selection of a different radio channel). An RF survey will also define the signal levels needed to support the intended application.

Other potential issues that can be identified by an RF survey include multipath distortion and the presence of RF interference from nearby networks or other sources.

Of course, the need and complexity of an RF survey will vary depending on the location and the environment. However, generally speaking, a RF survey is essential to ensuring your remote monitoring and control solution performs correctly. Without a survey, you run the very real risk of ending up with inadequate coverage, low performance and a system that does not perform as you want it to.

For more information on radio surveys, contact us today.

iCON pump controllers - what's in an upgrade? (10/11)

With revised pricing and a range of optional upgrade items, there has never been a better time to take a look at the iCON pump controller. CAP Industries released the iCON range of controllers earlier this year, and we have been particularly pleased by the interest and feedback received regarding the standard controllers vs the upgraded versions available.

Both the iCON Level controller and the iCON Pressure controller offer two versions – a standard, entry level version and a more advanced version with greater flexibility and customisable options. It is this approach that enables us to provide our customers with the best product to meet their specific needs at the most competitive price possible.

So what is the difference between the two? The following tables summarises some of the key areas:

iCON Pressure Controller	Standard	Advanced
1-3 pumps	√	√
Pressure transducer operation	√	√
IP65 and NEMA4x rating	√	√
System pause	√	√
System alarm	√	√
System fault		√
Individual pump fault	√	√
Individual pump alarm	x1	x2
Start pressure - adjustable for each pump via keypad	√	√
Stop pressure - adjustable for each pump via keypad	√	√
Low pressure fault	√	√
High pressure fault	√	√
Adjustable time delays for: start/stop pressure, system alarm, system fault, low/high pressure, pump alarm	√	√
Adjustable minimum run timers	√	√
Option for automatic reset of faults	√	√
Pump rotation option - Rotate or Fixed	√	√
Auxiliary outputs with on & off timers		x2
Remote reset		√
Output for individual pump fault or alarm		x3
Programmable inputs	x1	x3
System security	√	√

iCON Level Controller	Standard		Advanced
	Switched Operation	Transducer Operation	Switched Operation	Transducer Operation
1-3 pumps	√	√	√	√
Float switch operation	1 per pump		2 per pump
Level transducer operation		√		√
Tank fill or tank empty selection	√	√	√	√
IP65 and NEMA4x rating	√	√	√	√
Caters for single or multiple water sources	√	√	√	√
System pause	√	√	√	√
System alarm	√	√	√	√
System fault		√	√	√
Individual pump fault	√	√	√	√
Individual pump alarm			1 per pump	2 per pump
Start level - adjustable for each pump via keypad		√		√
Stop level - adjustable for each pump via keypad		√		√
Low level fault	via float	√	via float	√
High level alarm	via float	√	via float	√
Adjustable time delays for start/stop levels, system alarm, system fault, low/high level, pump alarm	√	√	√	√
Adjustable minimum run timers	√	√	√	√
Option for automatic resets of faults	√	√	√	√
Pump rotation option - Rotate or Fixed	√	√	√	√
Auxiliary outputs with on & off delay timers			x1	x2
Remote reset			√	√
Output for individual pump fault or alarm			x3	x3
Programmable inputs		x2	x1	x3
System security	√	√	√	√

Should you require further information, don’t hesitate to contact us. In the meantime, keep an eye out for your updated pricing in the mail soon. Alternatively, drop us an email and we can send the updated pricing directly to your inbox for your immediate perusal.

The cheaper alternative for all drive VSD control (07/11)

The Hydro Controller from MAC3 has seen a rapid rise in popularity as customers continue to demand more value from their pumping dollar. Compact and easy to use, this efficient variable speed controller provides a cost effective solution for achieving all drive control in both single and multiple VSD pump systems.

The Hydro controller offers a range of easy-to-use features and is available from CAP Industries with options for single and three phase power supplies. Up to 3 controllers can be easily interconnected (via a communications lead) to achieve a multiple pump system, and the controller can be either pump or cabinet mounted (pictured).

iCON controller meets the challenge in product comparisons (07/11)

The release of our new iCON pump controller earlier this year has been an exciting time for CAP Industries, with systems being dispatched to sites throughout Australia – including Tasmania, country Victoria and South Australia. It has also been a time of evaluation, as customers undertake the inevitable comparisons between the iCON controller and existing pump control products.

As with any purchase decision, there is often more than one element to consider when choosing the right pump controller for your application. In the coming months, our team will address each element separately, with today’s focus being value for money. So, other than the initial purchase price, what should you consider when looking at the value for money equation? The following questions may provide some useful food for thought.

1. Flexibility of your controller. Can your pump controller be easily customised to suit your requirements? For example, can you change the system parameters without ringing the manufactuer? What if your situation changes… how adaptable will the pump controller be if, for example, you want to add another pump?

2. Upgradability. How will my controller keep up with advances in technology? It is important to ask can you simply upgrade software, or will you need to change hardware also?

3. Reliability/physical life-span of the controller. Is the construction of the controller suitable for my environment? Investigate the IP ratings of both your controller and your system - does the controller have its own IP rating or is the panel the only form of environmental protection? Does the accompanying control system use quality electrical components from trusted brands?

4. Useability. Will you (or your personnel) be confident in using the controller? All manufacturers claim their product is “easy to use.” Is this claim a justified one or is it just marketing speak?

5. Maintenance. How much maintenance will the controller require? How can you ensure minimum downtime of your pump system?

CAP Industries