Pendants and radio transmitters are the operator’s connection to the overhead crane or hoist. There are many reasons to choose one or the other when deciding between a pendant and radio. Radio transmitters allow operators to control lifting equipment like cranes and hoists at a safe distance from the load. They allow for ergonomic control and can be integrated into a wide range of lifting equipment.
The DRC-DC Radio Control System
The Demag DRC-DC Radio Control System is an ergonomic solution for use with DC Chain Hoist products. These handheld transmitters are tough and impact-resistant to give you reliable operation. Charging is quick, a radio unit will fully charge in 2 hours. It uses frequency hopping for reliable transmission and can be used on overhead crane applications with up to three motion axis.
A full line of accessories is available for use in aggressive environments. DRC-DC radio accessories are available for environments with high chemical or abrasive materials to meet your requirements. The DRC-DC can be ready for emergency use. Power the transmitter with standard alkaline batteries for temporary use in emergency situations and power outages.
Challenges of Radios
There are many ways a radio transmitter can be damaged in daily work, requiring the transmitter to be replaced. Even with precautions in place, radios can be left in areas where they get damaged. When damage occurs, having a wired pendant back up on hand or a backup transmitter can minimize downtime to allow your workforce to continue working. A trained crane service technician can help get the wired pendant connected or the backup transmitter connected while the existing transmitter is replaced for minimal downtime.
When it’s time to replace a DRC-DC transmitter, it’s important the replacement be completed by an experienced crane service technician. The replacement process differs depending on whether you know the crane serial number or not.
Replacing When Serial Number is Known
When the crane serial number is known and the old transmitter still works, the replacing a transmitter requires setting the crane ID on the new transmitter. Crane service technicians will follow the 8-step process from the manual (document #21468944, page 36) to delete assignment of the old transmitter. To assign the new transmitter, the technician will follow the steps to assign the new transmitter and receiver when putting the unit into operation.
Replacing When Serial Number Unknown
If the transmitter no longer functions or the crane serial number is unknown, technicians should follow the steps for resetting the receiver board. Without a radio link to the receiver, the new transmitter must be reset via the J3 jumper. Reference page 38 of document #21468944 for the full procedure. Resetting the transmitter with the J3 jumper then allows the technician to proceed to the procedure to replace a hand-held transmitter.
All service technicians should consult the User Manual & Assembly Instructions [document #21468944] for the DRC-DC radio control system for replacing a transmitter on DC-Pro 1-25 and DC Com 1-10 chain hoists. When the instructions are used together, technicians have the resources they need for efficient service.
Using the DRC-DC radio control system makes work for ergonomic for your workforce and can be used in a wide range of environments. When the time comes for a transmitter to be replaced, a trained technician should be your first call. Always keep a spare wired pendant or backup transmitter to minimize downtime in your operations. The technician will follow the procedure based on whether the crane serial number is known or not so you’re back up and running quickly.
Get in Touch with Demag!
If you’re a technician and need assistance, reach out to the Demag Cranes & Components location nearest you for assistance with documentation or technical assistance. Use our global contact locator for the quickest response!
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