Control
From a simple timer to
computer based systems, the control system is what makes everything
happen. Control systems fall into several categories:
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The majority of our
Controllers and SSCs are based around Programmable Logic Controllers
(PLC). A PLC is an industrial computer which has been in use in
factory automation for more that 30 years. We utilize PLCs because
they are extremely reliable, cost effective and rated for use in
safety critical systems. PLCs are also versatile, with a wide selection of input, output and communication modules available. |
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Show System Controllers are
those that exceed 20 control points and require networking. The SSC
pictured to the left contains 45 control points and is networked to
an Operators Interface, while the system pictured above is networked
to 3 other control enclosures and contains more that 250 control
points. When audio and lighting is used in the installation, the SSC serves as the master controller sending commands to audio playback units, digital signal controller and lighting controllers. |
Another component of the SSC
is the Operator Interface which provides access the all of the
functions of the control system.
Our Operator Interfaces utilize LCD touch screens which allow for hundreds of unique screens offering whatever information and level of control is required. A typical system has a master screen with a simple one-button-start function for general operations with maintenance functions being password protected. |
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A stand alone controller can still integrate audio control but typically has much simpler controls and is not networked to other systems. |
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Chip Controllers are custom designed for each application. They often contain programmable microchips which allow to a wide range of abilities in a very small package. The boards shown are from two of our projects with Universal Orlando (see volumes 2 & 17 in our Newsletters) |
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