Energy Management System (EMS) product update – new feature: wireless flash pattern synchronization
This article details the wireless flash pattern sync EMS update: when it occurred, the firmware version required, how it works, what is required for setup, and more.
Product applicability
The following products are discussed in this article:
- E Series: R247-E
- F Series: R247-F
- G Series: R247-G
- Wrong-Way Driver: WW100
When did this update occur
Starting in late 2020 Q4, all systems above received this update. This includes all replacement Energy Management System (EMS) boards. The new feature is automatic and requires no intervention from the end-user.
What firmware version is required
The wireless sync feature is supported starting with firmware version 1.1.5.0.
Theory of operation
The primary application for this feature is for Carmanah’s 24-hour flashing wrong-way warning sign (WW100). This feature allows for multiple, independent, radio-equipped Carmanah beacon systems facing the same direction to stay in sync and look uniform to vehicle traffic. This is also useful for other 24-hour warning beacon applications where several independent beacon systems are mounted to large roadside or mast arm signage.
Setup requirements
The following setup is required for this feature to function:
- At least two or more Carmanah beacon systems within wireless range (<1000 feet) and line of sight
- All systems must be radio-equipped and the radio turned on (rF setting)
- All systems must be set to the same radio channel
- All systems must be set to the same flash pattern
- All systems must be set to the same input method, which would commonly be normally closed (NC) for warning beacon systems
Note - we also have a dusk-to-dawn input method option to flash only at night
Syncing will occur automatically without user intervention. The systems will also automatically resync during the following scenarios:
- On startup
- If the flash pattern is changed on each system
- After every two hours of operation
The Energy Management System (EMS) is factory programmed and the firmware cannot be updated in the field.
Carmanah's pedestrian-activated beacon systems (R920s and R820s, which are radio-equipped by default) and radio-equipped school zone beacons (R829s) already have this synchronization ability as they send and receive a timed command so they all turn on at the same time.