All charged up Celebrating 40 years On the 27th of August 2019, REDARC Electronics turned 40 years old.
manufacturer in Australia can not only operate but thrive through these factors.”
Celebrating 40 years is a significant milestone for any business especially in this global economy. The story of REDARC celebrates our success and how through resilience and persistence we have been able to buck the decline in manufacturing in Australia.
“This is in no small part thanks to our focus on innovation, our passion for learning and continuous improvement, our unrelenting focus on building a team‑based culture and willingness to embrace risk.”
Talking about his REDARC journey, Managing Director, Anthony Kittel offered the following reflections and aspirations. “When I first walked through those doors at REDARC in 1997 we had a massive amount of work to do. Since then we developed a motto that we live by... the customer is king.” “It was through my early formative years of working in my grandfather’s garage in Hawker, South Australia, that instilled what customer service is really about, and that’s what we have implemented so successfully at REDARC.” “REDARC’s growth since being founded by Bob Mackie, and evolution over the last 40 years, has seen REDARC come a long way from those humble beginnings in Blackwood, SA.” “REDARC has undergone a massive transformation in the last 22 years, and I am thankful of the support we have received from our outstanding staff, customers, suppliers, distributors, partners, community and government who have backed our innovation, rugged and high-quality Australian made products.” “Today, we still face many challenges; globalisation, the high cost of manufacturing, fluctuations of the world economy and many more, yet we have proven that a
“An example of this has been our world class facilities as a result of decision to invest in the Greenfield site in 2005.” “Since that time, we have had two major expansions, the most recently completed in 2018. This will stimulate a stronger economy in South Australia, creating more jobs in highly skilled areas.”
SPRING
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In this issue... 30A Showroom Charger BCDC Mounting Brackets Fitting a Tow-Pro Elite in a modern vehicle Defence Teaming Award 2019 $40,000 charity drive
Visit redarc.com.au for tech-tips and up-to-date info
WIN AN
ULTIMATE INSTALLER PRIZE PACK
“I’m also excited for the opportunities for expansion and growth that exist in global markets, the defence sector in Australia, the introduction of electric vehicles and early autonomous vehicle trials.” “It’s been an honour playing a part in REDARC’s history over the last 22 years of ownership. Of course, this wouldn’t be possible without the late Bob Mackie, REDARC’s founder, who must be acknowledged as a pioneer in electronics.”
S E E I N S I D E F O R D E TA I L S
“I’d also like to thank the fantastic team we have at REDARC, without them, we certainly wouldn’t be here today. Lastly, I’d like to thank my wife Michele, our children and our family, Denis and Joan Brion, and our Advisory Board for their support and business knowledge.” “The next 40 years will be just as challenging and exhilarating... I hope you will stay with us for the journey.” We have released our 40 year timeline. Take a look at the moments and milestones that have made REDARC what it is today at redarc.com.au/40th-anniversary
“When I first walked through those doors at REDARC in 1997 we had a massive amount of work to do. Since then we developed a motto that we live by... the customer is king.” Anthony Kittel
Defence update
REDARC wins Defence Teaming Award 2019 REDARC were pleased to be announced as the winner of the Defence Teaming Centre (DTC) Teaming Award 2019 in collaboration with fellow Australian SME’s FormCut and IntelliParticle. The DTC Teaming Award recognises and celebrates organisations that achieve mutual business success as a result of collaboration with other organisations. The SME trio delivered the REDARC Thermal Enhancement Kit (RTSEK) to the Australian Army earlier this year and, as a result, they successfully engaged practice targets for the first time using new Precision Guided Munitions, SMArt155.
Anthony Kittel said, “REDARC is currently very well positioned to support unique defence requirements, both now and into the future.” “The award is a great acknowledgment of what can be achieved when successfully combining the technologies of multiple SMEs,” he said.
“I’d like to thank the Australian Army for recognising the capability of SMEs to provide an advanced solution and thank the team at REDARC; Karl Falzon from FormCut and Greg Hancock from IntelliParticle and award sponsor Defence SA,” Mike said. To find out more about REDARC Defence visit redarc.com.au/defence
Defence Account Manager for REDARC, Mike Hartas was also pleased with the win and proud of the collaboration.
Establishing realistic thermal vehicle signatures to guide the SMArt155 to its practice target would have typically required a generous timeframe, whereas the RTSEK delivered an innovative solution without complex infrastructure. And, in this case, it was essential to find a solution in the lead up to Exercise Chimera at Shoalwater Bay scheduled for March 2019. At the centre of the RTSEK solution was the strategic and collaborative partnership between Australian SMEs who, by being local, could deliver this innovative solution to the Australian Defence Force within an extremely compressed timeframe.
Greg Hancock (IntelliParticle), Mike Hartas (REDARC) and Karl Falzon (FormCut)
Export update
International trade shows REDARC will be attending two significant international trade shows in the coming months, having just successfully exhibited at NATDA in the US. These trade shows are an opportunity to showcase our products and also build positive relationships within the industry.
NATDA USA
SEMA USA
SOLUTRANS Europe
On the 5th to the 7th of September, REDARC attended the North American Trailer Dealers Association (NATDA) annual trade show in St Louis, Missouri.
The SEMA Show is a highly popular event that takes place 5th to the 8th of November this year in Las Vegas.
From the 19th to the 23rd of November, REDARC will be among approximately 610 exhibitors at this year’s Solutrans event in Lyon, France.
NATDA serves the light and medium duty trailer dealers and brings them together as a combined team. By uniting the trailer dealers within a professional business association, NATDA provides dealers with benefits, programs and education. This is the third time REDARC have attended the annual trade show and we were many among others showcasing their latest trailers, parts and accessories. It was a perfect opportunity for REDARC to network with industry professionals under the one roof. For more information visit natda.org
It is the premier automotive specialty products trade event in the world, attracting 2,400 exhibitors, and provides attendees with educational seminars, product demonstrations, special events, networking opportunities and more. REDARC’s Export Manager, Craig Herriot said, “REDARC will present the Tow-Pro Elite Electric Trailer Brake Controller, the Manger30 Battery Management System and our BCDC In-vehicle Battery Charger range, including the latest release to the US market, the BCDC1250D.” For more information visit semashow.com
It is the largest European gathering of electric heavy goods and urban vehicles. The event attracts national and international exhibitors including vehicle and body equipment manufacturers, industrial vehicle body builders and dealer networks. “At Solutrans, potential customers can learn more about REDARC products suited for commercial and heavy vehicles.” said Export Manager, Craig Herriot. For more information visit solutrans.eu
New product releases
30A Showroom Charger Our newly-released 30A Showroom Charger (part number SBC1230-S) is the latest of our co-branded DEFA AC battery chargers, now available to the Australian and New Zealand market. The 30A Showroom Charger is designed for long-term, 12 volt battery maintenance charging, providing fast battery charge. It is ideal for use in vehicle showrooms, or at home connected to infrequently used vehicles, RVs, caravans or boats. It can be placed under a vehicle, out of the view, when in use. The clamping cable is detachable and easily passed through the engine bay. The charger has no fan, so it is noise free. This allows the unit to remain incognito in a vehicle showroom or garage. The REDARC 30A Showroom Charger by DEFA is based on modern switch-mode technology and galvanic isolation.
The charger represents the latest in longterm battery maintenance charging and will maximise the lifespan of a battery. It uses a 7-step charging process to optimise battery performance and longevity.
The 30A Showroom Charger is simple to operate. It only has one button and features a user-friendly display for monitoring the battery status. Compact in size and encased in a black anodised aluminium finish, it provides an attractive exterior that complements any modern showroom.
Designed for use with 12 volt lead acid, AGM, EFB and GEL battery compositions, the 30A Showroom Charger will initially deliver 14.4 volts to achieve maximum charge, prior to dropping to 13.6 volts at a maximum of 30 amps during the longterm charging phase.
Anthony Kittel said, “As vehicle technology continues to improve, there is an increased demand for battery support and maintenance. The benefits are clear for not only vehicle showrooms but also home garages, with a safe and versatile battery charger that is able to deliver a quick charge to batteries that may be used infrequently.”
It can also withstand parallel loads up to 30 amps while charging the battery. Additionally, it is also spark-proof and fully secured against reverse polarity and short‑circuiting.
“The 30A Showroom Charger is an exceptional combination of state-of-theart technology, advanced features and an innovative design. It ensures fast charging and reliable battery performance for dealers, manufacturers and end-users.” This is the latest co-branded product from Norwegian innovator DEFA to be released by REDARC, following the release of the SmartCharge range of AC Battery Chargers in December 2018. To learn more visit redarc.com.au/showroom-charger
BCDC Mounting Brackets REDARC Electronics would like to announce the release of a range of vehicle-specific mounting brackets to aid engine-bay installations of our award-winning BCDC In‑vehicle DC-DC chargers.
The six BCDC Mounting Brackets are: Part number Vehicle suitability
“The addition of a range of mounting brackets for our BCDC range is a logical fit for our product offering, with feedback from the field indicating that there is strong demand for a readymade, vehicle specific installation solution.”
In total, there are six variants available to suit seven popular 4WD makes and models. The brackets allow installation into the front of the vehicle away from high-temperature areas, ensuring optimal performance due to the cooler airflow.
BCDCMB-001 Toyota Landcruiser 200 (11/2008 onwards) BCDCMB-002 Toyota Landcruiser 70 (3/2007 onwards)
Like all REDARC products, the BCDC Mounting Brackets come with nation-wide support, including a two year, hassle free warranty and after-sales service to answer any questions which may arise.
Each bracket is designed to be used with REDARC’s range of BCDC chargers, and ship complete with instructions and fasteners to complete the installation process. Each bracket is vehicle specific, ensuring that the bracket size and mounting style is tailored for secure fitment within the engine bay.
BCDCMB-003 Toyota Landcruiser Prado 150 (10/2009 onwards)
For more information visit redarc.com.au/brackets
The BCDC Mounting Brackets are constructed from durable 304 stainless steel and have been designed to fit existing mounting points in the vehicle. Anthony Kittel, said that the addition of installation-ready Mounting Brackets is inline with requests from both installers and customers.
BCDCMB-004 Toyota Hilux (3/2005-9/2015) BCDCMB-005 Toyota Hilux (10/2015 onwards) BCDCMB-006 Isuzu D-MAX (6/2012 onwards) and Holden Colorado RG (6/2012 onwards)
Visit redarc.com.au | Email power@ redarc.com.au | Phone 08 8322 4848
BCDCMB-001
Product information
How to fit a Tow-Pro Elite in a high spec modern vehicle REDARC receive many enquiries regarding fitting a Tow-Pro Elite into a modern vehicle that uses a CAN Bus system for signalling and applying brakes for adaptive cruise control, stability control, downhill assist, etc. As modern vehicles become more sophisticated, they are also becoming increasingly sensitive to any accessories fitted including electric trailer brake controllers. The REDARC Tow-Pro Elite can be fitted to any vehicle... the critical aspect is the wiring and where/how the wiring interfaces with the vehicle. REDARC recommends the following two options:
Option 1: Using a REDARC Tow‑Pro Wiring Kit REDARC have developed and released vehicle specific Tow-Pro Wiring Kits (TPWKIT) that assures a quality fitment, without fear of setting fault codes or, worse still, damaging sensitive electronics within the vehicle. REDARC’s recommendation is to use a REDARC TPWKIT when installing a Tow-Pro Elite to a modern vehicle. If you are using a TPWKIT, it is not necessary to add the diode described in option 2. If a diode is required it will be included in the TPWKIT harness. While the REDARC TPWKIT range covers a significant portion of popular vehicles, at times an installer will encounter a vehicle for which there is no REDARC TPWKIT. In this case, installers can consider option 2.
Option 2: Without a REDARC Tow‑Pro Wiring Kit In the instances where a REDARC TowPro Wiring Kit is not available, REDARC recommend the most reliable location to source the stop lamp signal for a trailer brake controller installation (this is not unique to REDARC electric trailer brake controllers) is
Fig 1: Installation without a diode
Fig 2: Installation with a diode
In vehicles that have a genuine tow-bar wiring harness installed that includes a trailer lighting module between the vehicle wiring/electronics and the point where the brake signal for the electric trailer brake is sourced, and the trailer lighting module has been confirmed to prevent the back feeding of the 12 volts applied during manual trailer braking, it is possible to install the electric trailer brake controller without a diode.
For vehicles which have driver aids which apply braking autonomously, and when not using a REDARC TPWKIT for the installation, it is recommended that a diode be fitted on the vehicle side of the junction to ensure the 12 volts applied during manual trailer brake application, does not reverse feed into the vehicle wiring/electronics, avoiding any potential issues which may be caused.
12/24V 3 Axle EBRH-ACCV3 Use a 30A circuit breaker and wiring US Patent No.: US 9,446,747
12/24V 3 Axle EBRH-ACCV3 Use a 30A circuit breaker and wiring US Patent No.: US 9,446,747
Tow-Pro Stop Signal
Elite
Tow-Pro Stop Signal
Trailer Stop Lamp Pin #6
Elite
1 6 5 3 2 7 4
Towbar Module - Stop Lamp
For older vehicles, not supplied with driver aids, e.g. cruise control, traction or stability control, brake/throttle override
at the trailer socket. Sourcing the brake lamp signal from the brake light wire at the trailer socket will capture all braking events which illuminate the vehicle/trailer brake lights. In a modern vehicle these can be either driver generated (foot on the brake pedal) or vehicle generated driver assistance, which may include adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking, stability control and more. When sourcing the brake signal at the trailer socket, and the installer is not using a REDARC TPWKIT, it is recommended that a diode is fitted on the vehicle’s brake light wire on the vehicle side of the point where the brake signal is sourced. A diode operates as an electrical one-way valve to stop power back-feeding into the vehicles
Trailer Stop Lamp Pin #6
Solder or crimp connections required
1 6 5 3 2 7 4
Towbar Module - Stop Lamp
For modern vehicles, equipped with driver aids and advanced safety systems, e.g. adaptive cruise control, assisted emergency braking and autonomous emergency braking
electrical system. Without a diode, back feeding will occur when the brake controllers manual override is operated i.e. the remote head knob is pushed. It is not advisable to feed power into any electrical circuit unless the full extent of that circuit is known, and it is deemed safe to do so. The purpose of the diode is to allow normal operation of the trailer’s stop lights, and also during the operation of manual override, allow the brake controller to illuminate the trailer stop lights and block this power from flowing back into the vehicle’s electrical system. You can download the full tech tip from redarc.com.au/tech-tips. To purchase the Encapsulated Power Diode (EPDK) visit redarc.com.au/encapsulated-power-diode
A reminder to installers REDARC Electronics has issued a product safety recall for certain serial numbers of the Tow-Pro Elite V2 (EBRH‑ACCV2) electric trailer brake controller purchased between 1st September 2018 and 21st January 2019.
The replacement entails the changeover of the main control unit only.
As a result of this recall, you may be contacted by a number of your customers regarding potential affected Tow-Pro units. If you have a new unit in stock that is within the affected range, you can return the unit to your distributor for a free replacement to the next generation Tow‑Pro Elite EBRH-ACCV3. If an owner finds they have a unit that is affected, they are being advised to contact REDARC who will coordinate a free replacement of the main control unit. Subsequently, REDARC may contact you to organise for a customer to come to you in order to have the replacement completed, we seek your assistance to carry out this work.
In the instance of a customer contacting you regarding the recall you can: • Check the serial number as per our instructions on our website redarc.com. au/recall-notice. • If the unit is not within the serial number range, then there is no concern for your customer’s installation and they can continue using their TowPro Elite V2. • If the unit is within the affected range, then you can organise with the customer to undertake the changeover at your earliest convenience. • Full instructions on how to carry out the replacement can be found at redarc.com.au/recall-instructions
REDARC will provide a sum of $50 inc GST for each unit that needs to be changed over, as well as provide the main control unit required for the replacement.
Please note that as part of the recall process we do need to accurately track the serial numbers of the main control units affected against the replacement main control unit to report to the regulatory authority. Invoices cannot be paid until we can verify that we have received the affected main control unit back to our stores. We thank you for your valued support in this product safety recall and carrying out this work on behalf of REDARC. If you have any questions about these matters, please contact REDARC on 1800 REDARC (1800 733 272) or email service@redarc.com.au
Business update
REDARC trade giveaway We would like to thank you for your support over the past 40 years, without you, we would not be the business we are today. To show our appreciation we’re giving you the chance to win one of five iconic prize packs valued at $2,000 that includes REDARC product, marketing support, a customised REDARC polo with your logo and much more! Terms and conditions apply.
BCDC1225D
EBRH-ACCV3
SBC1210
FK40 fuse kit
5 REDARC polo shirts with co-branding
Fluke 325 MultiMeter
To enter all you need to do is visit redarc.com.au/trade-40
WIN AN
ULTIMATE INSTALLER PRIZE PACK
...plus REDARC signage and/or marketing support
VALUED AT $2,000!
Permit numbers SA T19/1301, ACT TP 19/03953, NSW LTPS/19/369. Full terms and conditions at redarc.com.au/trade-40
REDARC hosts trade masterclass On the 18th of June REDARC Electronics hosted a trade masterclass event in partnership with VASA at our state-ofthe-art manufacturing facility in Lonsdale, South Australia. VASA is the only network in Australasia representing the professional workshops and technicians in the vehicle aftermarket. Members include technicians, workshops, industry bodies, manufacturers, wholesalers or corporations serving the automotive air conditioning, electrical or engine cooling industry.
from South Australia’s Tumby Bay and Warrnambool in Victoria. Guests were treated to a welcome from Anthony Kittel, followed by technical sessions, product feedback focus groups and a factory tour. Technical sessions took the groups for a more in-depth look at some of REDARC’s new and existing products including in‑vehicle battery chargers, electric brake controllers, total vehicle management systems, AC battery chargers and the full suite of Hummingbird Electronics products.
The sixty auto electricians in attendance were a mixture of local and regional customers, some having travelled
The facility tour provided guests with in-depth insight from REDARC experts spanning all business and manufacturing
REDARC National Sales and Marketing Manager, Ben Marsh explains REDARC’s manufacturing process
Managing Director, Anthony Kittel opening the Masterclass
departments including Test and Validation (EMC testing), Surface Mount Technology (SMT), Production, Engineering, Technical support, Sales and Marketing. The night was capped off with product feedback sessions which allowed attendees to give valuable feedback on the products they use on a day-to-day basis. The REDARC staff would like to thank all who took the time to attend the evening and make the event a great success. To find out more about VASA and their upcoming programs visit vasa.org.au or for more insights into REDARC’s recently‑expanded facility visit redarc.com.au/facilities
Hummingbird National Sales Manager, Mark Bruce showcases Hummingbird’s products
In the community
REDARC’s $40,000 charity drive In the last newsletter edition, we revealed REDARC’s ambitious goal of raising $40,000 for charity in honour of our 40 years in Australian manufacturing. We are pleased to be able to announce that, to date, we have raised $21,000. REDARC is delighted to commit to raising these funds specifically for the CFS Foundation, Junction Australia, Catherine House and the Royal Flying Doctors Service.
40,000
$
We will be placing a spotlight on the good work of each of these organisations via our social media channels, website and newsletters so please look out for updates.
for charity
Win a $5,000 Adventure Prize Pack and support the CFS Foundation We have launched a raffle to raise $5,000 for the CFS Foundation. You could win $5,000 worth of products from raffle sponsors REDARC, Hema Maps, ARB 4X4 Accessories, Lightforce and the Caravan Industry Association of Australia. Tickets are just $5 and can be purchased online at redarc.com.au/adventure-prize Permit/Licence for ACT R 19/00362, WA LS213398819. Full terms and conditions available online.
Major sponsor of Catherine House fundraising event For the second consecutive year, REDARC is contributing $10,000 toward the Catherine House annual Gala Dinner, being held on the 11th of October. Last year’s event raised almost $100,000 to increase the number of crisis beds available to women experiencing homelessness. In December 2018 Catherine House, together with Minister for Human Services, Michelle Lensink, opened two new cottages used for crisis accommodation. We look forward to the upcoming 2019 fundraising event.
Charity spotlight
Charity spotlight
CFS Foundation
Catherine House
The CFS Foundation is an independent, not‑for‑profit organisation that provides financial assistance to CFS volunteer firefighters and their families who have suffered through death, injury, loss or damage of property while in the line of service.
Every night of the year Catherine House provides a safe place of accommodation to 48 homeless women.
REDARC is proud to be an ongoing sponsor of the CFS Foundation, having sponsored their Fire Trail event in 2016 and continuing our relationship with an ongoing donation. Learn more at cfsfoundation.org.au
Big Red Bash recap REDARC were major sponsors of this year’s Big Red Bash event and we thank everyone who stopped by our stand. With a bumper bash crowd of 9,169 people, our REDARC team were kept busy taking enquiries and assisting attendees with their 4WD and 12 volt touring set-ups. We look forward to seeing you at next year’s event. For details on the Big Red Bash 2020 visit bigredbash.com.au
REDARC Electronics power @ redarc.com.au
Australia Phone 08 8322 4848 Fax 08 8387 2889
23 Brodie Road (North) Lonsdale, South Australia Australia 5160
International Phone +61 8 8322 4848 Fax +61 8 8387 2889
ABN 77 136 785 092
PTY LTD
They ensure each woman has a chance to recover from what has led her into homelessness... this could be years of abuse, trauma or mental health issues. Catherine House help clients with the issues that have led to homelessness and helps them to sustain housing and build a life that is purposeful. Learn more at catherinehouse.org.au