We are often asked if our cellular and radio products can be used for remote pump control.
Inevitably the answer is yes, they can. The SMS Lite and WP2P are frequently used to remotely start, stop, and monitor pumps faults.
Pump control and pump controllers is a specialist area and there are many different types and techniques used. Pump control can include simply turning a small pump on and off, to more advanced controls for pump speed, output pressure and flow. Your electrician or system integrator needs to be consulted as they are likely to be involved.
Typical examples of our wireless and cellular pump control implementations include:
Irrigation Pump Control
This is usually the remote control of high power 415V 3 phase AC pumps. The pumps are often switched in a sequence to provide water to different centre pivot irrigators at different times.
The pump shed is often in a remote area of the farm and using WP2P radio remote control prevents the farmer having to drive to the pump shed.
Booster Pump Control (Flood Mitigation)
Often used to switch on a booster pump before the water level or stream flow reaches a dangerous level. The booster pumps are large and expensive to run, so it is important to only use when necessary.
Systems have been used which combine a WP2P radio link and a SMS Lite to give 4G text alerts.
Pump Fault Indication
Typical examples are monitoring the phase failure and sending the “pump fault” output from the pump controller as an SMS alarm. SMS alarms can also be sent from a low pressure signal, which would indicate a pump fault or potential leak. Using the pulse output feature of the SMS Lite is also a great way or performing a fault reset remotely.
Bilge Pump Monitoring
This popular SMS Lite application sends SMS alerts when a water level is detected in a boat and it provides on/off control of the DC powered bilge pump. The SMS Lite can use it’s spare I/O for boat security system or power supply monitoring etc.
Sump Monitoring
Similar to the bilge pump application but usually for buildings close to the water table. A recent example was the sump of a hotel elevator shaft which was close to the water table. The SMS Lite was used to text maintenance staff during weather events so the booster pumps can be operated to prevent spillage.
Bore Pump Monitoring
Used to provide confirmation that the bore pump is running and get warnings if the pump stops.
It was in a rural location and remote control was crucial to prevent extensive travel time for the owners.
Considerations for Pump Control Projects
Important considerations for the remote switching of your pump include:
Controller Outputs – Does the pump controller have relay outputs that can be connected to the SMS Lite or WP2P?
These are often provided for pump running, pump fault, high temperature, mains fail etc. Some controllers may have only a single output relay but its function can be selected.
Controller Inputs – Does the pump controller have auxiliary switch inputs for remote start requests?
Generally, if the controller has a digital panel this is likely and they are often found on an internal terminal strip. If the controller is an analogue type with knobs and switches, it is unlikely to support remote starts. Check with the controller manufacturer.
Relay Contacts – Our relay outputs are low power DC contacts that will need interface relays or contactors to operate high current and AC mains powered pumps.
Cellular coverage – Is there 4G network coverage at the pump location? Remote rural areas and hilly terrain often have limited reception and this may prevent the cellular SMS Lite option being considered. Check how many bars are shown on your phone to give an initial indication.
Line of Sight and range – If using WP2P radio systems, is there clear line of site between the pump and control? Click here for more detail. The wireless repeater can also be used to extend range.
Setpoint Changes – You will need the Analogue I/O version of the WP2P if a 4-20mA signal is needed for setpoint, flow or pressure indication.
Our powerful DATRAN SCADA system is also used by many local councils for the monitoring of their reticulated infrastructure. These systems include remote pump control of water, wastewater and storm water systems and uses the DATRAN XL4 Plus RTU.
These projects are different to the WP2P and SMS Lite projects. The XL4 Plus RTU is typically interfaced to the pump controller by an Ethernet or serial Modbus connection. The pump controller is usually an industrial PLC which is used to control the entire water treatment plant.
Our 4G SMS Lite cellular controller is part of the solution.
The NEL project is being considered as the ‘missing link’ in Melbourne’s road transport network. The project will ultimately connect the M80 motorway to the Eastern Freeway. This will connect important growth areas in the north and south-east of Melbourne. The NEL project involves upgrades to the Eastern Freeway, a dedicated Busway, more than 25 kilometres of new and upgraded cycling and walking paths, and improvements to community facilities including sports grounds.
The $11.1 billion major works contract is being delivered via a public-private partnership with an incentivised target cost (ITC), believed to be a first for Australia.
DATRAN Australia has contributed to this project using the SMS Lite cellular controller. This solution will monitor four signals in a plant room and will send alarms as text messages over the 4G cellular network.
We worked with Spark who are a multi-national consortium featuring world leading construction companies and they are one of the largest road and tunnel operators in Australia.
The popular DIN rail mount is also used simplify installation in the control panel, together with cellular antennas and DC power supplies.
The products and part numbers supplied for the project include:
A new customer asked this recently by so we decided to provide a summary of popular alarm examples.
In short, virtually anything can send an alarm with our SMS Lite and SMS Controllers – all we need is a switch or contact closure from the device to be monitored.
Please click on the titles below for more information:
Bird control and bird deterrent systems are important safety consideration for airports and runways. They are also extensively used in agriculture and farming to help prevent birds eating crops and seeds.
Our customer wanted to install a remote control option for an acoustic system at an airport runway. We were able to assist with the WP2P and SMS Lite solutions.
There are many different bird deterrent systems and distraction techniques available including acoustic, visual, and explosive options.
Acoustic bird deterrent systems use electronic recordings of predator birds (hawks, eagles etc) or distress calls from the target birds. Of course, bird breeds vary geographically, but we also discovered that their sound varies by country too. System controllers must have an “AU” sound chip to provide the correct dialect for the birds and relevant local predator sounds.
While the standard system controllers perform random sound activations between dusk and dawn, we needed a way to activate the sirens on demand. A good example is to disperse a flock of birds prior to an aircraft starting it’s decent, and not to wait for the next random sounder activation.
With a low power consumption and volt free relay outputs, the WP2P can be interfaced into almost any remote control application and is suitable for being solar powered.
The SMS Lite can also be used for remote control and these cellular control solutions are also used in animal welfare and safety scenarios.
If the power, ventilation or temperature monitoring sensors are activated, the SMS Lite sends text messages over the 4G cellular network giving advance warning of the fault and time to react.
Defend Fire group is an Australian company specialising in all types of fire alarm monitoring, fire detection and suppression systems. Many of their systems are installed in the remote rural communities of Darwin, Alice Springs and Adelaide.
Having a reliable and proven messaging capability is crucial for these applications – it provides advance warnings, power supply monitoring and reduces travel times and costs. The SMS Lite has four inputs and two relay outputs to give maximum flexibility to monitor status and operate remote equipment via your phone.
The function of the relays in the alarm panel is usually programmable for conditions including alarm has been triggered, mains power loss, tamper detection/panel open etc.
The SMS Lite is configured by text messages and secured with a unique PIN.
The SMS Lite inputs have a programmable “debounce” time to help prevent nuisance messages being sent, when activated.
With the 3G cellular networks closing, and the 4G networks being available in many rural locations, the 4G SMS Lite should be the first choice messaging system.
Please get in touch to discuss how our cellular products can provide you solutions.
If you are looking for Fire Systems Experts anywhere near Adelaide, Darwin or Alice Springs, go to: https://www.defendfire.com.au/
Defend Fire have offices located in Adelaide, Darwin and Alice Springs supporting operations throughout South Australia and the Northern Territory. Defend Fire are experts in all aspects of fire systems and equipment. Their services include installation, maintenance, inspection & testing and repair of commercial fire protection equipment and the team adheres to Australian Standards.
We have been involved with a generator remote start project for the popular Kubota GL600D-AU-B genset fitted with the DSE 4520 digital control panel.
The generator remote start ability was of crucial importance for the customer. Milne Bros, the local distributor was contacted for assistance. They evaluated the compatibility and interface wiring prior to the customer purchasing the genset.
DATRAN Australia and QTech in NZ were involved in the discussion to ensure the customer could achieve remote starting using text messages.
The Kubota GL600D-AU-B genset has many great features. It was selected as it has quiet running, efficient fuel use and an auto change over for when the mains power drops out.
The SMS Lite interfaces to the DSE 4520 control panel – Input A, pin 14 is wired to the SMS Lite output relay RLY1. Sending a text message to the SMS Lite closes the relay and activates pin 14 (connects it to ground) remotely starting the genset.
The SMS Lite’s low power relay outputs are ideal for this type of electrical switching.
More details on the DSE4250 control panel, including the wiring diagram and I/O configuration options is available here.
The genset also has multiple outputs that can be monitored by the SMS Lite and used to send text messages to notify you. Typical example would be the genset has started as the mains has dropped out.
There are many different types of generators available, but you need to ensure that yours has a suitable electrical interface for remote starting.
Remote start kits provide the electrical interface to the necessary start button, kill switch etc. They can be a factory fitted option, pat of the control panel or an aftermarket accessory. Please contact your provider with this note.
SMS Lite – Relay Output Options
The SMS Lite relay outputs can be turned on, off, pulsed for 1 second or pulsed for a configurable time. This is useful as the generator’s remote start interface may need an activation signal for several seconds before operating. Some generators also have separate start and stop inputs.
SMS Lite – Input Switch Debouncing
Input switch debouncing is also a good idea and will prevent false alarms and help reduce the quantity of SMS/texts sent. Debouncing is configurable, it’s a global setting so applies to all four inputs.
Low Voltage Warning
The SMS Lite automatically sends you a text message if the supply voltage drops to 10.5V DC. When voltage increases to 11.5V DC a confirmation text will also be sent.
Fuses and Relays
Remember to install suitable fuses in the interface wiring.
A DC supply isolator switch for the SMS Lite should be installed if the device will be unused for extended periods or powered from the generator’s starter battery.
We recommend installing interface relays on the output side of the SMS Lite controller. This assists future serviceability and allows high current/voltage operation. The SMS Lite relays are rated at a maximum of 2A at 32V DC only.
Cybercrime is increasing in Australia – The targets of Cyberattacks now include automation systems, industrial networks, and farms. Each of these has an increasing amount of internet connected technology. For farms, everything from tractors to milking platforms to soil moisture sensors are connected to the internet and may have some level of vulnerability.
The good news is there are simple steps you can take to improve your online security and system protection.
The ASCSS recommended suggestions and minimum steps include:
• Always apply patches and updates
• Always back up your data frequently
• Consider two factor authentication 2FA or multi factor authentication
• Train or remind staff to look for suspicious emails/texts.
• Ensure your modem/devices do not have the default password.
• Make a plan. It is easier to think about all the consequences of the situation now, rather than during an attack. Remember to consider all your automation and connected systems when considering a plan.
• Reset your devices before selling or disposing of them.
It is a good idea to use these alerts as part of your regular team or staff updates to improve resilience.
The Australian Federal Police also have a good selection of resources: https://www.afp.gov.au/
I think this quote from the AFP sums it up nicely:
“One of the best tools we have for fighting cybercriminals is you.
We need every Australian to understand different types of cybercrime and the simple steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim.”
Commander Chris Goldsmid AFP Cyber Command
Source: https://www.afp.gov.au/crimes/cybercrime
Many of our DATRAN SCADA systems are used by local councils who have strong IT networks and protection. These systems are increasingly using cellular data, remote access and IoT technologies, so adhering to the recommendations is just as important as ensuring the software it patched and updated.
Aviation obstruction lights, or “aircraft warning lights” are vital warning devices. They help pilots avoid tall obstacles such as cranes, particularly when visibility is reduced or during the night.
Tall construction cranes encroaching into controlled airspace is a serious business and strict rules apply.
Knowing that the aviation obstruction lights are both running and the power supply is operational are therefore crucial aspects to monitor on tall cranes.
Their requirement was to provide notifications to multiple staff over the 4G cellular networks, and for the system to be easily installed to the current crane fleet. The client also needed an additional feature to “broadcast” an alert to multiple cell phones and not wait for the usual escalation period. QTech worked with the client to develop this feature, which is now available in firmware v4.08.
Getting automatic notifications when the crane is in use or powered up is another benefit of using the SMS Lite. Connecting one of the digital inputs to the “live” or “run” signal in the control panel will confirm the customer is using the crane – particularly useful for lease and hire contract monitoring. Should it be necessary, the crane could be inhibited remotely by activating one of the relay outputs.
Selection of the aviation obstruction lighting is a complex task which will need expert involvement to ensure it meets compliance requirements and local conditions.
Typical crane heights of up to 45m and 105m need aviation warning lights and may need multiple sets of lights at different heights and mounting alignments. The general requirement for construction cranes at night includes a maximum permitted height of 274 m.
LED lighting has multiple benefits over incandescent lighting, including lower energy consumption (lower power costs) and longer life expectancy.
Importantly, many of the modern LED lighting fixtures are modular and allow the lighting intensity to be changed to suit the match or event.
The requirements for sports field illumination varies depending on the sport being played.
Typical illumination levels required include:
Recreational: 300 lux
School/amateur: 500 lux
Professional: 1000 lux
International (FIFA/world cup): 2000 lux
But how can the LED lighting intensity be remotely controlled without digging up the pitch or replacing the control cables?
Our Wireless Point to Point (WP2P) and Multi Point Controller are popular solutions and have been specified for the remote control of LED lighting upgrades at several rugby fields recently.
The WP2P modules have three output relays, and these can be interfaced into the LED lighting control circuit. From a central control room or the ground keepers’ office, a switch is activated to change the LED lighting intensity via radio.
The WP2P also has input options that can be used to monitor lighting module failure, power failure or even a tamper switch in the control panel.
