Electronics

Electronics

Step Up Safety: The Whats and Hows of Junction Boxes

September 26, 2024 — by Richard Dawson

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When we think about the electrical system in our homes, we often focus on visible elements like lights, switches, and outlets. But there’s a critical, behind-the-scenes component that keeps everything safe and running smoothly—the junction box, or J-box. These small yet essential devices protect electrical connections from damage, short circuits, and potential hazards. Let’s explore what these boxes are, their importance, and why they play a vital role in any electrical installation.

Electronics

LED Light Globes: Durable and Energy-Efficient Bulbs with Aesthetic Appeal

September 19, 2024 — by Richard Dawson

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The way we light up our homes and commercial spaces has evolved significantly, largely due to the advancements in LED technology over the past decade. This shift toward LED lighting isn’t just about energy efficiency; it’s also about unlocking a world of design possibilities. LED globes, which seamlessly blend energy savings with style, have quickly become the go-to option for those seeking both functionality and aesthetics.

Electronics

Garmin GLO 2: The Right Step to Ensure Safe Navigation Through the Skies

November 10, 2023 — by Richard Dawson

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When aviation is part of your life, no matter whether it’s on a professional or personal level, you’re well aware of what’s really important when you’re up in the skies – the right equipment. Despite all your training and skills, you heavily rely on the right gear for the flights, especially a GPS device which is created to assist you with providing accurate navigation and location data.

Even in times such as these when smartphones have replaced almost everything else when it comes to technology (e.g. radios, TVs, DVDs, cameras, calculators, torches), having a separate navigation device like this one is helpful for your optimal situational awareness and safety. Garmin is a name that’s associated with Bluetooth GPS for aviation that truly stands out with the design and reliability of the features.

While they have plenty to offer in terms of equipment designed by pilots for pilots, it’s the GLO series that has gained a great deal of popularity as of late. While it all started with the GLO 1 as the robust and highly accurate option for your journey through the skies, the advanced GLO 2 quickly took over with the new and improved features.

Electronics

Steps to Choosing Wireless Transmitters: What Makes Elsema an Industry-Leading Manufacturer

April 25, 2023 — by Richard Dawson

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From mining and warehouse operations to agriculture and residential security, wireless remote control systems are everywhere. In fact, wireless networking is proving itself to be more than just a cost-effective alternative to tethered controls. It’s helping industries and individuals to become more efficient, more productive, and ultimately safer.

It’s no surprise, however, that the most significant innovations in this technology are occurring in equipment designed to operate in the 433MHz frequency band. This license-free frequency is ideal for developing low-power devices (LPDs) like remote controls that have minimal energy requirements, but are still able to function across significant distances without experiencing extensive signal propagation problems.

There’s one Australian company that’s taken the lead in developing remote-controlled systems in this frequency range. And not only are their control systems known for their unconditional reliability, they even manufacture a variety of complete turnkey mechanical systems to use them with.

Reliable Wireless Controls for All Your ON/OFF needs

WIRELESS TRANSMITTERS AND RECEIVERS
source: youtube.com

Since 1973, Elsema has been on the cutting edge of designing staged output remote control systems. They understand that simplicity works best, which is why they’ve expanded their premium range of remote-controlled wireless receivers and transmitters to include a line of LPD 433MHz units with microcontroller technology that completely eliminates the need for traditional dipswitch coding, or the possibility of code grabbing.

Their programmable, multi-channel GIGALINK® GLR and GLT lineups of wireless receivers are at the heart of this new technology. And with the ability to program up to four billion code combinations, they’re the ideal choice for a complete range of applications, including:

  • Wireless traffic light and indicator activation systems;
  • Wireless warning/siren control systems;
  • Automatic controlled security gates and barrier systems;
  • Remote-activated pumping and agricultural systems; and,
  • Stop-start operation of a convey belt and mechanized transport systems.

The GIGALINK series offers the most versatile ON / OFF functionality that you can get in any domestic, commercial, or industrial use remote control system. Reliable simplicity is where GIGALINK receivers really stand out though, and you only have to look at their range of standard features to see just how reliable they are.

Wireless Receivers That are Built Around Simplicity

Every GIGALINK receiver is built around a solid core of features that allows them to do their job better than any other family of wireless remote control systems. With respective ranges of 500m on the GLR, and 1000m on the GLT, the standard array of GIGALINK wireless transmitter receiver features include:

  • 1, 2, 4, and 8 relay channel outputs;
  • Crystal-controlled carrier frequency tolerance for higher reliability;
  • Better than 1µV sensitivity to activate relay switches;
  • Optional 7.5 – 28 V AC/DC, or 240VAC main supply power; and,
  • Programmable usage for an unlimited number of transmitters.

Dependable features are the basis of GIGALINK’s patented wireless transmitter and receiver systems. And while GIGALINK receivers are designed to operate on a frequency of 433.920MHz, Elsema can also custom program them for special frequency (SF) ranges.

  • 433.664MHz (SF2)
  • 433.408MHz (SF3)
  • 433.152MHz (SF4)
  • 434.688MHz (SF5)
  • 434.432MHz (SF6)

You also won’t find a receiver that’s simpler, more reliable, or easier to set up than a GIGALINK unit. And make no mistake: their powerful little transmitters are built to the same core of standards.

Durable Handheld Transmitters that Function Every Time

ELSEMA GIGALINK 433.92MHZ 4 BUTTON REMOTE –
source: retroremotes.com.au

Durable, handheld 433MHz transmitters give GIGALINK’s remote-controlled transmitter and receiver combinations the mobility they need to get the job done. With their ability to simultaneously activate multiple ON / OFF functions, these lightweight transmitters are ideal for environments where 1 or 2 people might otherwise need to perform simple, but time-consuming tasks to complete a single operation.

With an effective range of up to 500m depending on the location of the receiver, these multi-channel, no interference transmitters also feature:

  • 1, 2, 3, 4, or 8 button operation;
  • The ability to be programmed to a corresponding number of receivers;
  • 9V battery power with LED battery indicator;
  • Built-in loop antenna; and,
  • Continuous transmission.

GIGALINK’s optimized flexibility also means that their transmitters can be custom programmed to match any of the special frequencies that could be used with a receiver. It’s the peak of simplicity, and you only have to look at how GIGALINK’s transmitter and receiver kit output ranges function to recognize just effective their patented simplicity can be.

Secure Wireless Outputs and Easy Programmability for Any Job

gigalink elsema
source: elsema.com

GIGALINK receivers feature 4 unique output modes that can be set up to function in either momentary or latching connections for any of the unit’s relay channels.

  • GIGALINK Default. From the factory, the receiver’s output is set to Momentary.
  • Momentary. This output setting stays switched on for as long as the button on the transmitter is pressed.
  • Latching. This output relay stays switched on until another button on the transmitter is pressed.
  • Security Latching. This output relay remains switched on until power to the receiver is turned off.

All of the above output connections can also be operated simultaneously, and transmitters can be programmed in seconds in only 5 quick steps.

1. Power up the receiver and ensure that all the mode dipswitches are off.

2. Short out the CC pins on the receiver board to set all the receiver channels to a random code.

3. Attach the transmitter to the receiver’s coding socket to activate its programming mode.

4. Press any 2 channel buttons on the transmitter simultaneously for the transmitter to confirm that it’s programming.

5. Disconnect the transmitter from the receiver.

That’s all it takes, and you only need to repeat steps 3 – 5 to program as many additional transmitters as you need. You just want to be careful, however, to avoid accidentally shorting out the CC pins again to prevent deleting any previously programmed transmitters.

The Final Word

At the end of the day, a high-quality remote control system doesn’t need to be costly or complicated. Reliable, easy-to-program transmitters and receivers are the answer for most activities, but they also need to be both secure and scalable enough to keep pace with requirements if they change.

From routine operations like driver-controlled gates at busy truck terminals, to emergency STOP circuits on factory assembly lines, Elsema’s premium range of GIGALINK remote-controlled wireless receivers and transmitters are precisely what you need to keep all your ON / OFF functions working as expected. They’re helping to bring affordable wireless efficiency to every task, without sacrificing simplicity.

Electronics

Steps to Finding the Ideal Deep Cycle Batteries

December 2, 2022 — by Richard Dawson

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Whether you’re out camping, fishing, hunting, off-roading, or boating for days at a time, you’ll want a stable supply of power. This is to run basic devices like phones and lights, or something needing more bite, such as fridges and electric stoves. Throw in a few luxuries like air conditioning and a decent stereo, and your power needs grow exponentially. While there’s the possibility of running everything through the car or boat battery, you run the risk of a flat. Have safety and convenience in mind and get a secondary, deep-cycle battery instead.

Electronics

Steps to Starting Your Own Vlogging Channel

September 22, 2022 — by Valeriya Vimon

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So you want to be a YouTube celebrity? Or perhaps you’re simply an enthusiast who wants to share your experience with the rest of the world. Regardless of why you want to start your own vlog, or what you intend to highlight, there are several best practices that will ensure your vlog channel achieves success beyond the approval of your ever-supportive besties.

So you want to be a YouTube celebrity? Or perhaps you're simply an enthusiast who wants to share your experience with the rest of the world. Regardless of why you want to start your own vlog, or what you intend to highlight, there are several best practices that will ensure your vlog channel achieves success beyond the approval of your ever-supportive besties.
source: adobe.com

Follow the step-by-step instructions below to produce a high-quality experience, attract your target audience and position yourself to generate cash from your own video creations.

Grow Into Your Own Niche

Unless you are the most fascinating and recognizable person in the world, your charming personality will not be enough to attract a large or even a medium-sized audience. You need a topic that visitors are interested in and will come to rely on.

Determine your area of expertise and ensure there is a market for it. Fast cooking, rapid home improvement methods, makeup tutorials, gaming, and fitness are excellent examples of video subjects that are sure to pique viewers’ interest.

Choose something that you are authentically passionate about. Passion comes through for your audience videos as well, and keeps you engaged and excited to create fresh video ideas.

Maintain Professional Video Quality

Nowadays, you can utilise your smartphone’s video camera to create a high-quality, full-length film on your iPhone or Android, so there’s no excuse for low-quality video. However, successful vloggers understand the importance of having clean, clear videos with superb audio and aesthetics and it’s why you hear them recommend a professional vlogging camera kit with all the equipment you may require to get started.

Nowadays, you can utilise your smartphone's video camera to create a high-quality, full-length film on your iPhone or Android, so there's no excuse for low-quality video. However, successful vloggers understand the importance of having clean, clear videos with superb audio and aesthetics and it's why you hear them recommend a professional vlogging camera kit with all the equipment you may require to get started.
source: advergize.com

Depending on what you need, or what you lack in your own set of tech devices, there are several options of kits. There are those that include smartphone clamps, ball heads, mini tripods, clamps with shoe mounts, and those that are equipped with mics, clip-on transmitters and power bank holders. Decide what you want to have, choose based on your budget, and find top-notch vlogging camera kit from trusted suppliers.

Camera

Depending on the subject of your movie, you may want to consider a camera with an external microphone port (for better sound capture), an LCD screen that can swivel to the front (so you can see yourself while filming), an AF system (to refocus the camera if you’re on the move), and 4K footage (so you can crop and reframe your video and still get quality output).

Lighting

Even the best camera in the world cannot improve the appearance of a badly lit area. When you first start vlogging, look for natural light (either outside or near windows indoors) and experiment with the ideal angles and positions for optimal lighting. If you want to be able to vlog from anywhere at any time, invest in illumination. If you intend to focus your face in front of the camera, this is a decent starting point

Audio

The quality of your audio is actually more crucial than the quality of your professional video. Most viewers are prepared to watch a video that wasn’t shot in HD or that was even a touch grainy as long as it was otherwise good. However, distorted, unintelligible audio generally causes people to hit the “back” button within a few seconds of starting to play a video. So getting a quality vlogging camera kit with one or even multiple recoding microphones will be your guarantee you get the message across. As you should!

Editing

Video editing software: Editing your video clips is critical for creating the perfect final cut. This is where the post-production action takes place. You may edit your vlog videos by trimming them, resizing them for any platform, making split screens, and adding captions, music, a title, and text. What’s the best part? With the free video editing tools available online, even a novice can accomplish it.

Match the Dynamic of Tone and Visuals

You can begin to discover your ideal audience once you’ve identified your niche. The next step is to make certain that your video, visuals, and written and spoken words are making sense and go together thematically. This might come to you as an instinct, or it might need a little bit more research.  A vlog about Formula 1 racing, for example, would have a significantly different tone, graphics, and attitude than one about the fine art of knitting.

The key to producing high-quality material, whether you’re blogging or vlogging, is to deliver value. Education (such as how to naturally get rid of rodents, change your car’s oil, or play the guitar) or entertainment (such as commentary, music, and comedy) can provide value. In either instance, it must be captivating enough that the spectator believes they are getting value for their time spent watching you.

Be Unique, Be Yourself

Everything has been done before, as the saying goes. However, it has not been done in your distinct way. Adding your own personal touch to video blogging can be the difference between your chocolate chip cookie instructional and the zillion others out there.

Everything has been done before, as the saying goes. However, it has not been done in your distinct way. Adding your own personal touch to video blogging can be the difference between your chocolate chip cookie instructional and the zillion others out there.
source: daysoftheyear.com

Find ways to distinguish yourself, your channel, or your broadcast. Video titles (using search engine optimisation so they may be found via Google search), your video opening (make a trademark opener), your outro (leave a lasting goodbye), and any catchphrases that you can coin and propagate are all low-hanging-fruit prospects.

Stay Consistent with Your Publishing and Promoting

The concept “Out of sight, out of mind” is real. Make sure you have enough good topics to cover on your vlog so that you can create new content on a regular basis. Make a content calendar to stay on pace, and establish franchises (such as tips, reviews, or recipes) that people can expect to see when they watch your vlog.

Take Your Time

Becoming a successful vlogging rockstar, like anything worthwhile, takes time, dedication, and effort. You’re not going to become the next Dude Perfect overnight. Take things one vlog at a time. Begin with an amazing first video that introduces yourself and your vlog, and then progress from there, drawing cues from your most popular videos and developing with the preferences of your audience. With time and dedication, you’ll be well on your way to being a legitimate vlogger.

Electronics

The Whats and Hows of Water Leak Detectors

September 12, 2022 — by Richard Dawson

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Let’s agree things were complicated way back when the only way to tell if there was a water leak in any particular area was to either carefully inspect the scene for any signs of water and moisture damage, or to wait until something actually broke due to the water leak. Plumbers were tasked with figuring out where the water was coming from, and this often turned out to be a very time-consuming and expensive process.

Electronics

Steps to Choosing the Right Gold Detector

May 9, 2022 — by Richard Dawson

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Finding gold can be one of the most exciting and rewarding activities globally. People have been hunting for that gold nugget for as long as we can remember. Since its discovery, gold has served as a symbol of beauty, power, purity, and achievement. Gold is not only precious because of its beauty, but it may also be the most useful metal on the planet. It is an excellent electrical conductor, does not tarnish or oxidise, and it’s very flexible. You can manipulate, pound, and mould it without breaking it.

Electronics

The Whats and the Hows of Pipe Inspection Cameras

February 15, 2022 — by Richard Dawson

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If you’re a homeowner, a property or a facility manager, then there’s an excellent chance that at some point you’ll need to address a plumbing situation that simply can’t be overlooked. It may be a spontaneous or persistent blockage, a suspected defect – or something as ominous as a tree root rupturing a pipe – but whatever the situation is, there’s an excellent chance that it’s going to require inspecting a stretch of pipe that’s totally inaccessible.

Electronics

Power Point Sockets: Differences in Residential and Industrial Applications

December 28, 2021 — by Richard Dawson

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Australia and the UK have countless things in common. One less obvious is the switchable safety features of power outlets used in homes. Both countries use a 230V residential power supply (recently reduced from 240V in Australia), which powers appliances and devices with ‘on’ and ‘off’ switchable sockets. This is also shared by our Kiwi neighbours, but rarely found anywhere else. The benefits of having to flip a switch before you can use anything are more than obvious. The first is increased safety, especially for the kids, and the second is that you can leave everything connected without running into higher electricity bills when appliances are on standby mode (yes, there are savings here folks). Similar designs are carried on in industrial sockets, but these are built for higher power loadings.