All charged up Unprecedent times give way to innovative customer service There is no doubt that the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has impacted communities and the economy, and there is a long road to recovery. Perhaps what we have also witnessed is that in testing times such as these, there is an innovative spirit that becomes evident. There are impressive examples of adaption out there – whether it was businesses changing their service models from face-to-face to online or virtual models, or companies that switched to manufacturing facemasks and hand sanitiser. For us, our leadership team prepared several contingency plans to minimise the risk and disruption to our global business operations as well as to our valued customers. Our highest priority is the health and safety of every member of the REDARC and Hummingbird communities, including our employees, customers, partners, and vendors, while maintaining the resiliency of our business.
Australian made and owned From a supply perspective, the overwhelming majority of both REDARC and Hummingbird products are proudly manufactured at our facility in South Australia. That being said, some of our components are sourced from China, so we set out to engage secondary sources for these components where necessary. We also have a sufficient supply of finished goods, components, and raw materials in inventory to continue manufacturing our products for the coming months. We have experienced minimal issues with manufacturing, fulfilment or shipping products to our customers and remain confident that between these efforts and the inventory on-hand, we can support customer demand over the next couple of quarters. The most important request we make of our customers is to provide our sales team with as much forecast visibility as possible on product requirements to assist with our planning efforts to enable us to work directly with you on your specific requirements and ensure communication on order delivery times.
We also have the infrastructure, procedures, and safeguards in place to continue delivering the highest level of service and support through our customer service and technical support teams. All of REDARC Group’s networks and web platforms are hosted in the Cloud or at secured, off-site data centres and are expected to continue providing reliable, uninterrupted service.
WINTER
2020
In this issue... New Tow-Pro Wiring Kits Customised isolators available now Spotlight on the Hummingbird Cabin Pressure Monitor REDARC Defence partners with Kongsberg
Visit redarc.com.au for tech-tips and up-to-date info
Virtual technical support in real time Like many businesses we had to reduce person-to-person contact and adhere to strict travel restrictions which meant our sales team could not attend site visits, travel interstate, or overseas. Those restrictions aside, I am proud of our team and our ability to deliver exceptional and uncompromised customer service with help of some very useful technology. REDARC Group staff can review installations and offer technical advice, in real-time, via the App TeamViewer Pilot. Our customer service and field sales teams are equipped with the necessary tools to run the application and can see through your smartphone camera to observe any kind of equipment, machinery, or installation situation. If we cannot be present with you in person, we can use technology to ensure you have all the resources you need to service your customers.
Positive signs On the bright side, the announcement in May came as great news that restrictions would begin to ease with some states enjoying more freedom to travel intrastate and get back to exploring their own backyard. And with that our Area Sales Managers are keen to get back on the road and visit you! We will keep you updated.
To see how REDARC’s virtual tech support via TeamViewer works, visit redarc.com.au/news/redarccovid19-update Extended trading hours Until then, you can take advantage of our extended technical support hours. We’re available from 6am - 7pm (ACST), Monday to Friday, to help support all of our customers. Please contact us on +61 8 8322 4848 or power@redarc.com.au Thank you for your support during this challenging situation. Yours truly Anthony Kittel Managing Director REDARC Group
Product news
REDARC can custom‑program the range of SBI isolators to your specifications.
Customised isolators
You may not know it, but this is a service that we have offered for many years. Our Smart Start® SBI is a microprocessor-controlled, smart battery isolator. Utilising our proven robust design it enables an easy install and reliable solution. Here are some applications for customising a REDARC SBI isolator: 1 Prevent accidental battery failure by using a custom low voltage disconnect and increase the reliability of your system design for your customers, saving money on replacing batteries.
Available voltages and amperages • 12 and 24 volts • 100A and 200A Programable features • On/off voltages between 9 and 15 volts on 12 volt models • On/off voltages between 18 and 30 volts on 24 volt models • Programable on/off delays • Programable on/off override trigger
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. 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.
2 Charge back to start battery from the auxiliary battery solar system, prevent discharge and damage to start batteries on vehicles with long stationary periods. 3 Isolate non-critical loads at a specific voltage and allow reserve capacity for critical loads, e.g. to turn off non-essential lights at 12.2V leaving capacity in the battery to maintain a fridge or critical medical device. 4 Provide custom voltage protection to a battery during normal vehicle operation and isolate loads with ignition off by using a programmed trigger function. 5 Set your own safe voltage for operation of loads on cars and trucks whilst the engine is running and prevent accidental damage to the battery by ensuring the loads are isolated with ignition off. For more information or to download an order form visit redarc.com.au/isolators and select SBI-X
The replacement entails the changeover of the main control unit only. 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. 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 Tow-Pro 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
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
Partnerships in business
A spotlight on Hummingbird’s Cabin Pressure Monitor Hummingbird’s Cabin Pressure Monitor is gaining traction for its applications in mining and industrial settings, keeping cabin air nice and clear. The product (HMPS1000) was recently featured in the Roads and Infrastructure publication in April. At Hummingbird we are more than passionate about worker safety. Many of our products contribute to the safety of vehicle operators through our range of monitoring and alarm systems. Here is an excerpt from the article. ‘Mining can be a dangerous profession, whether you’re operating above ground in open cut conditions or deep underground, it’s the smaller risks that can sometimes be the major health hazards. Being so minuscule, dust is not only an issue for workers mining out in the open but also within machinery, as the tiny particles find their way into cabins and make breathing conditions unsafe for workers. It is difficult to tell when dust particles and the air pressure within the cabin become dangerous for an operator relying on their senses alone, so Hummingbird Electronics has worked to bring an innovative solution to the industry to counter this risk. Hummingbird has developed its cabin pressure monitors that compare atmospheric pressure outside of the cabin versus inside.
The solution ensures that there is enough positive pressure within the cabin to keep out dust and other contaminants.
creep up on workers, the consequences of them can seriously affect the life expectancy of sufferers and even be fatal.
Hummingbird’s National Sales and Marketing Manager Mark Bruce says the company offers two different models of cabin pressure monitors: the configurable cabin pressure monitor and the panel mount cabin pressure monitor.
“When machinery operators are mining, whether it’s iron ore or coal, you can never guarantee that dangerous material is going to be exposed,” Bruce says, “They could come across a seam of asbestos for example, or there could be airborne debris in the working environment that is harmful to humans”.
“The configurable model is a very compact unit that allows it to be tucked up out of the way of operators,” Bruce tells Safe to Work, “The panel mount provides a lot more detail with regards to specific pressure that’s currently in the cabin and an audible and visual alarm or warning status should the air pressure start to fall to an unsafe level. “Essentially, the cabin pressure monitor, whether its configurable or panel mount, is mounted in the cabin of a machine to ensure it is pressurised. Our device ensures cabin pressure systems continue to operate at their peak, keeping the dust and other airborne contaminants out of machinery cabins.”
While the cabin pressure monitor does not clean filters or fix leaks in-cabin seals, it does give operators timely warning of any damage or leaks and when cleaning is required. This can be combined with Hummingbird’s audio alert system, to ensure the warnings are received and understood clearly.’ Read the full story at hmbe.com.au/news
Monitoring air pressure is essential in preventing illnesses that can impact mine workers in the long term, such as asbestosis or coal workers pneumoconiosis (CWP), commonly known as black lung. While these illnesses can take many years of long-term exposure to dangerous particles to
Defence update
REDARC Defence Systems becomes preferred supplier to Kongsberg Defence Australia
Our REDARC Defence Systems team is going from strength to strength having been recently selected as Kongsberg Defence Australia’s preferred partner and supplier of electromechanical components for the NASAMS system’s Fire Distribution Centre (FDC) as part of project LAND 19 Phase 7B. NASAMS is a state-of-the-art defence system that can maximise local defence efforts. Mike Hartas, Defence Account Manager said, “REDARC Defence Systems is proud to work
Visit redarc.com.au | Email power@ redarc.com.au | Phone 08 8322 4848
with KONGSBERG on the LAND 19 Phase 7B program in Australia.” “KONGSBERG´s approach to Australian Industry Capability is testament to what can be done when the Defence companies and Australian industry want to work together to deliver real capability to the Australian Defence Force. The transfer of technology to Australian industry will ensure the capability delivered under LAND 19 Phase 7B will be enduring and supportable in Australia.”
Product information
REDARC releases a simplified range of universal Tow‑Pro Wiring Kits
We are proud to announce the release of a range of Tow-Pro Universal Wirings Kits which aid and support the installation of the marketleading Tow-Pro Elite Electric Trailer Brake Controller into a wide range of vehicles. By offering two new Tow-Pro Universal Wiring Kits, REDARC have streamlined the existing range of options down from eleven to just three kits. The advantage is that customers are now able to consolidate their stockholdings. The Universal Tow-Pro Wiring Kit (#TPWKIT-013) is suitable for vehicles where the start battery, Tow-Pro main unit and cable run to the cabin are all in-line. The Universal Tow-Pro Extended Wiring Kit (#TPWKIT-014) is suitable for vehicles where the start battery is on the other side of the vehicle from the rest of the installation.
Vehicle
Old product New product code code
Colorado
TPWKIT-002
TPWKIT-013
Triton
TPWKIT-003
TPWKIT-014
Hilux Fortuner Prado
TPWKIT-004
TPWKIT-013
LC200
TPWKIT-005
TPWKIT-014
Isuzu
TPWKIT-006
TPWKIT-013
Kluger
TPWKIT-007
TPWKIT-013
Navara
TPWKIT-008
TPWKIT-014
Pajero
TPWKIT-009
TPWKIT-013
Amarok
TPWKIT-010
TPWKIT-014
Universal
TPWKIT-011
N/A
Everest/ Ranger
TPWKIT-012
TPWKIT-012
These two kits differ only in the length of the positive power connection provided.
Tow-Pro Elite, making it quicker and more convenient.
The Tow-Pro Wiring Kit to suit Ford Ranger and Everest (#TPWKIT-012) will remain available, working seamlessly with all Ford on-board systems. This kit already connects to the trailer socket (with suitable signal conditioning).
Each kit includes hardware and fitting instructions to deliver a high-quality and reliable outcome for every installation while protecting the integrity of the vehicle, avoiding the setting of fault codes or damage to sensitive electronics.
Given the comprehensive nature of the new Universal Wiring Kits, they now suit a broader range of vehicles (almost all SUVs and LCVs). When installing a Tow-Pro Elite with a superseded vehicle-specific wiring kit, refer to the table to see which new Universal Wiring Kit is suitable for a particular vehicle. Universal Wiring Kits provide ‘plug and play’ style connectivity, ensuring each kit will simplify the installation of the REDARC
The new Tow-Pro Universal Wiring Kits join a complete range of accessories for the Tow-Pro range including switch inserts, an encapsulated protection device, remote head wiring kits and a mounting bracket. All are designed to simplify the installation of the unit into a wide variety of vehicles. For more information visit redarc.com.au/ trailer-brakes/tow-pro-accessories
Rediscover REDARC Virtual Product Tours In case you missed it! REDARC released a product education tool this time last year. Using our branded Toyota Hiluxes to showcase the purpose and interconnectivity of our products, you and your customers can take a virtual tour and discover this interactive way of learning about our products. You can help your customers in the early stages of their research, helping them make the right selection. The tour is accessible at the REDARC website by visiting redarc.com.au/virtualproduct-tour but it can also be easily embedded onto your own web pages using a simple code. You can request this code and further instructions by sending an email to marketing@redarc.com.au
In the community
Business updates
$3,500 for bushfire relief
Say thanks campaign!
Service awards
The REDARC team were delighted to donate $3,500 to the Kangaroo Island Mayoral Relief and Recovery Bushfire Fund.
We would like to #SAythanks to Junction Australia and Catherine House. We have long supported these two wonderful South Australian organisations who are working tirelessly to provide front line services to our community.
A huge congratulations to Ben Sharp who achieved 15 years service on the 14th April 2020. Ben joined REDARC in 2005 as an Electronic Assembler when we were located in Heath Street, Lonsdale.
REDARC is proud to be an active member of our local and broader community and we are pleased to be able to support the bushfire relief fund. If you would like support the fund donation details are available on the website kangarooisland.sa.gov.au
We know their teams work hard for people facing challenging situations and we offer a special ‘thanks’ for continuing to conduct such important social work with the added complexity of the COVID-19 health crisis. If you would like to support these organisations, donations can be made via their websites - junctionaustralia.org.au and catherinehouse.org.au. The Marshall Liberal Government launched a new social media campaign to #SAythanks to South Australia’s dedicated and hardworking care and support workers going above and beyond at this unprecedented time.
Ben Sharp receives 15 Years of Service award.
He started with us fresh out of TAFE after studying Electrotechnology. In 2014, Ben became an SMT Operator and in 2018 became an SMT Backup Cell Leader. He is also a much-valued designated first aider. Ben has continued to study, achieving his Certificate IV in Competitive Manufacturing and Diploma of Electronics and Communications Engineering. Ben is a real team player, friendly, easy going and 100% reliable.
For more information visit premier.sa.gov.au
Andrew Barazda receives 10 Years of Service award.
Export update
No slowing down!
Being in lockdown has not slowed our Technical Support and Area Sales Manager Teams down. Last month, Greg Mitchell, our NZ Area Sales Manager carried out a training session webinar with customers to keep them informed and up to date on all our power management and towing products. Similarly, our technical support team have been utilising the TeamViewer app, allowing to see live video of a customer’s setup to better help troubleshooting.
Catherine
House Inc.
We also congratulate Andrew Barazda who achieved 10 years’ service on the 5th May 2020. Andrew joined REDARC in 2010 as an Electronic Assembler. He studied Electrotechnology at TAFE and commenced with us straight after graduation. In 2011, Andrew became an SMT Operator, 2012 became an STH Line Technician, 2013 SMT Team Leader and since 2019 in his current role as a Customer Service Technician in our Technical Support Team. Andrew has continued to study achieving his Certificate III Electronics and Communications, the REDARC Leadership and Change Management Program and has recently commenced his Certificate III in Automotive Electrical Technology. Andrew is the all-round nice guy, always willing to take on whatever project is needed by the business, not only completing tasks on time but often going above and beyond.
In the community
GET REDARC READY Australians love a great adventure. But they are only really ready when they’ve got REDARC on board. True innovators, REDARC products are made in Australia for Australian conditions. After 40 years in business REDARC have got the back of every Aussie who loves a good adventure. For more information contact your nearest distributor or visit redarc.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
redarc.com.au/getredarcready