Universal Controller Plus (MCS-32)
The Universal Controller Plus (MCS-32), Part Number UNI-PLS-001, is a device used for controlling hazard warning
lighting equipment that incorporates a built-in siren amplifier, along with a number of other useful vehicle power
management features, such as run-lock circuitry, split charger switching logic, head lamp flashing and priority load
shedding. A version without a siren amplifier is also available.
The main feature of this device is its ability to be fully ‘user’ programmed via a PC (usually a Laptop). Any input or combinations of inputs can be used to
control any output or combination of outputs as operationally specified for vehicles used by the Emergency or Recovery Services. The operational interface is
normally done via one of many Multi-Way Switch Units or individual switches from RSG. In addition to this, under certain conditions, the MCS-32 will oper-
ate with some industry standard switches that are already in circulation or acquired from new. Also, if operationally required for larger systems the MCS-32
can be controlled via a number of Multi-Way and/or individual switches.
The programming software is supplied free of charge with the device and allows the user to create ‘Configuration Files’ unique to each application that can
be easily amended or upgraded if required, thus, eliminating the need to add or remove relays and wires to an installation if the end user
decides the original settings are not best suited to their application.
Also, if the MCS-32 does not contain sufficient switching functions in its own right, additional devices such as the Universal Load
Switch (MCS-5E) and/or Universal Lighting Breakout Controller (UNI-LBC) can be added to expand the system. Alternatively, if the
MCS-32 is over specified for a particular application the smaller Universal 100 Watt Siren can be used instead with the appropriate
Multi-Way Switch unit, and then with, or without, the Universal Load Switch (MCS-5E) and/or Universal Lighting Breakout Controller
(MCS-LBC). Also be aware RSG produces a range of small complete stand-alone systems known as Universal Compact Control Systems.
The unit is primarily ideal for controlling the vehicle lightbar, together with other peripheral light heads, particularly when interaction
with other vehicle functions such as tailgate opening or hand brake operation. This is possible via a variety of switching devices
ranging from a Universal Multi-Way Switch unit or via a simple array of toggle switches. When a Multi-Way Switch unit is used, it is
programmed using the MSC-32 software that allows each switch function to be uniquely defined in terms of being either a single
or a multi functional switch (hot key) along with one of 8 colours.
As well as all the above features the unit also has the ability to interface with vehicle CAN Bus signals or, alternatively, when
fully developed operate with the Home Office Single Vehicle Architecture CiA447 CAN Bus protocol as specified in publication
39/11. Therefore, vehicle operational signals can be obtained directly from its electronic control systems, such as the ECU, rather
than picking-up from the electrical/electronic signal associated with a particular vehicle function as in an indicator or brake light. As an established supplier
of hazard warning control systems and data recorders RSG now has a very comprehensive library of CAN Bus data from a wide variety of vehicles that it can
make available to users of the MCS-32.
In addition to controlling blue lights and sirens the MCS-32 can also communicate with other devices usually found on an Emergency Services vehicle such
as Data Recorders and MDT’s that is usually achieved via it’s CAN Bus or RS232 connections that in turn can communicate with the vehicles Can Bus or CiA447
protocols if required.
Finally to help with installation and fault finding the MCS-32 is fitted with 24 diagnostic LED’s, each of which can display one of three indication colours (green,
amber and red) to give immediate feedback without the need for a PC connection.
One Box Compatibility
As a pro-active member of the One Box Consortium RSG is constantly striving to keep its products concurrent with this standard and as such is confident
that devices in the Universal range and Multi-Way Switch units meet the Single Vehicle Architecture (SVO) and Driver & Vehicle Data Management System
(DVDMS) criteria.
Product Versions
As the MCS-16 and the associated versions of Multi-Way Switch units are all fully programmable via the ‘free’ application software there is only one version
of device to purchase and stock. This also means that any application written can be held confidentially within your own company without the involvement
of RSG. That said in order to get the most out of this device RSG highly recommends that in conjunction with using this manual clients take advantage of
RSG’s free advice and training services associated with this product.
RSG Engineering Limited
Telephone :
01543 438800
Fax :
01543 438801
Email :
Web :
www.rsg-ontop.com
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UNIVERSAL CONTROLLER PLUS (MCS-32) USER GUIDE
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General Overview
