The RCU (remote control unit) manufactured by Elettronika S.r.l. enables you to monitor a distant broadcasting station just as the operator were on site. There are four connection modes: direct cable connection (RS232 or USB); traditional telephone connection (PSTN); data connection GSM; Internet connection (dedicated software, web or SNMP). It is possible to check and modify any parameter of the TV and FM amplifiers (power, power supply, temperature, etc.) of the exciters (frequency, gain, ON/OFF status) and of the switches (transmitter in antenna) with simple and intuitive operations. In case of failure or breakdown, the RCU automatically informs the control centre by SMS or phone call. This way, it is possible to be aware of the problem in time and perform a prompt and effective intervention, limiting the inactivity period. Besides, the RCU allows you to monitor the mains voltage and, should the power fail, be powered automatically by a battery in order to send the SMS/make the phone call. RCU is oriented towards the remote control of broadcasting equipment by Elettronika S.r.l., but it has enough flexibility to allow controlling other general-purpose devices.
In fact, the RCU is provided with three analog inputs, four digital inputs, and four digital outputs. It is also possible to set some user-defined rules, allowing the RCU to automatically modify the output channels, depending on the status of the inputs, with no operator intervention. By means of adequate sensors, it is possible to measure the humidity or air pressure (analog inputs), check the presence of fire- or intruder-alarms (digital inputs) or turn on/off the air conditioning or a lamp (digital output). Besides, the outputs can be controlled manually, remotely, locally, or automatically, depending on the inputs. Having a hooter sound when an intruder-alarm is triggered, or turning on the air-conditioning when the temperature or humidity is too high, will be as easy as sending a simple SMS. And if this is not enough, the input and outputs can be expanded by adding the GENIO option.
The ERCoS (Elettronika Remote Control Software) is the Windows® software to configure, monitor and modify from a simple remote transmitter to a large network of broadcasting equipment. Its operation is made easy by the intuitive graphic interface. It can be connected to the remote site by direct cable connection (RS232 or USB), telephone connection using any of the modem (GSM or PSTN) installed under the operating system, or through Internet connection.
The network of Elettronika transmitter can be customized, it is possible to describe its composition, add backgrounds, group the stations, display their status and any alarm, browse an historical event log, turn on and off the devices or change their settings, all this from a remote PC. A detailed block diagram, including all real data downloaded during the connection, is displayed for any single device (modulator, amplifier, etc.). The ERCoS can be configured so that it automatically answers incoming calls from a remote RCU, signalling an event (for instance, a black-out). The information sent is automatically added to the event log, which is then open and displayed on the monitor on top of all windows.
All operations are password-protected in order to prevent unauthorised people from changing the settings of a remote transmitter. Only users knowing the relevant password can change the software configuration or the settings of a device. The AutoPolling function allows a periodic automatic check, at scheduled intervals, of the status of the whole transmitter network. Any anomaly is always stored into the log. Last but not least, ERCoS language can be easily customised even by the end-user.
good