Rapid Control Unit (RCU)

 
RCU hero

The Rapid Control Unit (RCU) provides transport operators real business benefits by condensing into one hardened package a monitoring and control device suitable for a vast array of heavy vehicle, rail, roadside and wayside applications.

Designed specifically for the transport sector, the RCU provides remote monitoring and control in the most demanding of road and rail based environments.

The RCU is designed to operate in harsh environments. It is solidly build, has no moving parts, is protected against dust and water ingress and is designed to continue operating over the wide temperature extremes we experience in Australia. The RCU is a tough customer.

Using built-in GPS, each RCU unit can be set up to continuously report precise location data to central management servers, where operators can instantly obtain a graphical view of their fleet and track a particular vehicle’s journey over time.

At a glance:

Radio and Fixed Network support

  • GSM/GPRS Cellular
  • 54Mbps WiFi
  • 100Mbps Ethernet
  • GPS Positioning.

Compact and Rugged

  • small footprint
  • fan-less design
  • power management.

Many I/O ports

  • RS232/485/CAN serial
  • digital and Analogue I/O
  • user interface.

 

Designed to operate in harsh environments - solidly built with no moving parts.

Real-time positioning

Using built-in GPS, each RCU unit can be set up to continuously report precise location data to central management servers, where operators can instantly obtain a graphical view of their fleet and track a particular vehicle’s journey over time.

Wireless connectivity

The RCU boasts inbuilt GSM/GPRS cellular and WiFi radios providing voice and data services to both mobile and remote fixed installations.

Many interfaces

The RCU incorporates an impressive array of interfaces, including several RS232/485 serial ports, CANbus, digital and analog inputs, digital outputs, Ethernet and USB ports, and audio inputs and outputs. Compatibility with existing infrastructure is virtually assured.

Reduced operational costs

The RCU is a monitoring and control device for both fixed and mobile installations. It’s large array of interfaces, solid construction and processing power allow this one device to perform a range of roles that would once have required several different devices.

User Interfaces

The RCU is equipped with an SVGA display driver, and mouse, keyboard and touch-screen inputs. The RCU is ready for a range of interactive services including signage, driver control, and kiosk applications.

Linux Operating Systems

The RCU includes a 32-bit CPU and 1GB (expandable) flash storage pre-loaded with a Linux operating system and API, allowing rapid application software development and deployment using standardized, freely available tools.

Standards Compliance

The RCU is a proven performer, meeting relevant requirements for C-Tick and A-Tick regulatory approval, SAEJ1455 vehicle environmental compliance, and IP55 Ingress Protection. Certification to rail standards is underway.

The RCU complies with the following standards:

  • CPU: 32-bit XScale PXA270, 520MHz
  • Memory: SDRAM 128MB, 1GB Flash Storage (expandable by SD or USB internally)
  • Operating System: Linux 2.6 kernel
  • External Serial:
    • 2 off RS232, 57.6kbps with full hand shake lines,
    • 4 off RS232, 19.2kbps data only,
    • 1 off serial TTL 19.2kbps, data only
    • 2 off RS485 duplex (4 wire), 19.2kbps, data only
    • 1 off CAN bus V2.0b
  • USB: 2 off Host ports, Compatible with USB 2.0 Full Speed (maximum 12Mbps)
  • LAN: 2 off IEEE 802.3, 10/100BT, auto negotiating
  • WiFi: Internal factory fitted option, Station Adaptor, 802.11b/g compatible
  • Radio Modem: Internal factory fitted option, GSM-GPRSEDGE quad band
  • GPS Receiver: Internal 16 channel, WAAS capable, better than 6 metre CEP
  • Audio:
    • 1 x stereo output, 1x mono electret mic input to CPU
    • 1 x mono audio speaker output and 1 x mono electret mic input for GSM
  • Real Time Clock: Accuracy +/- 2 seconds per day, rechargeable battery backup
  • LCD Interface: 1 off LCD panel interface, with a maximum resolution 800 x 600, 16bit colour
  • RGB: 1 off RGB interface with a maximum resolution 800 x 600, 16 bit colour
  • Touch screen Interface: 4 wire resistive
  • Digital Inputs: 12 off, Opto isolated, typical trip (on) point 3mA @ 12V dc
  • Digital Outputs:
    • 4 x, Unregulated Power Outputs, 5 Amp switching high rail (+12V battery)
    • 4 x low side switches common to ground, 200mA
    • 4 x General TTL Outputs
  • Analogue Inputs: 2 x 8-bit 0-12V dc, 1 x 8 bit 0-36V dc, 1 x 8 bit 0-36V dc int. battery monitoring
  • Vehicle Odometer: 1x, single ended 1V to 30V P-P dc, 4,000 pps max, software settable DC offset for trigger point
  • Digital Compass: Honeywell HMR3200, internally mounted
  • Temperature: Integrated temperature sensor
  • Input Power: 9 -36Vdc, 14W typical, 47W** max
  • Sleep Mode power consumption <150mW
  • Off state power consumption approximately 50mW
  • No Break Battery: Optional external 12v 1.3 AH, recharge rate ~0.1 Amp
  • Switched Power:
    • 12V dc regulated output maximum current 2.0 Amp
    • 5V dc regulated output maximum current 0.5 Amp
  • Dimensions: 300mm x 200mm x 80mm
  • Operating Temp: -25º to +60º
  • Storage Temp: -40º to +85º
  • Humidity: 5% to 95% non condensing
  • IP rating: IP55
  • Vibration: 10g for 7ms
  • Shock: 25mm flush drop, non operational state
  • ** Power consumption varies with the load applied to 12V and 5V regulated outputs and options fitted.

Contact us about this solution

Contact Us