Emergency Equipment News » Product Improvements

Protective Bars for the 2010 Kawasaki Concours 14 now available

admin — Sat, 03 Apr 2010 16:17:13 +0000

Protective bars for the 2010 Concours 14 are now available. Kawasaki made some changes to the bike to help dissipate engine heat and divert it away from the rider. These changes resulted in us having to re-engineer the engine/fairing guards’ mounting brackets. Additionally, Kawasaki requested a minor design change which would allow the accommodation of certain law enforcement equipment for use in their highly anticipated return to the law enforcement arena.

These changes culminated in new generation engine/fairing guards, stronger and a little larger than their predecessors – built with 1” diameter tube instead of 7/8” diameter, easier to install and still available in chrome or tactical black powder coat. These new guards are unique to the 2010 model and will not fit earlier models.
For production going forward, we’ve also upgraded the small side bag guards to 1” diameter tube. The full size saddlebag and tail guard option will continue to be made with 7/8” diameter. Both of these fit 2008 through 2010 model bikes.

We’ve expanded our accessory line-up for the 2010 model by offering a baton/flashlight holder similar to the very popular version we build for the Honda ST1300PA as well as a speaker bracket specifically designed for the Whelen model SA315P speaker, the same unit being utilized by law enforcement agencies nationwide.
The Concours 14 being offered as a law enforcement vehicle is fully supported by Kawasaki Motors Corporation, U.S.A. and additional information can be attained by contacting John Griffin via email at john.griffin@kmc-usa.com or by calling him at (949) 770-0400 ext. 2725.

Although not specifically designed as a police bike, the Concours is similar in performance and appearance to the Honda and carries some of the same type of factory-installed equipment such as an adjustable windshield and available ABS brakes.

We believe this bike is capable of sharing the market with the Honda and providing another more affordable, high quality, lower maintenance alternative to Harley and BMW. Following what occurred with the Honda, we’re confident that other aftermarket manufacturers, dealers and outfitters will develop the remaining components necessary to complete the various configurations of lights, sirens, radar guns, etc. that law enforcement agency’s require.

It is our intention to eventually identify a few “standard” configurations of accessories for both the Honda and Kawasaki, then manufacture the bracketry to accommodate same, providing a more seamless product and making it easier on those preparing RFP’s/RFQ’s as well as those assembling the final product.

As shown in the images below, the Concours bars are very similar in design to those for the Honda. One notable distinction is their ease of installation, eliminating more than 20 steps from the process required for the Honda, including modification of the fairings.

New for 2010

Forward right and left engine/fairing guards with universal mounting brackets for lights, sirens, radar gun and antenna, etc. (See notes 1 & 2)

Full size rear side bag guards with rear lower and upper tail guard with room for mounting a shotgun and radio antenna. (See notes 1 & 3).

Small side bag guards are a lower cost alternative to our full size bag guard and tail guard assembly and provide a little less protection but offer a universal mounting point on each side of the bike for a variety of accessories commonly used in law enforcement. The accessory mounting plates have no pre-drilled holes allowing the end user the freedom to utilize the space as desired.

Baton/Flashlight Holder. For use only with the 2010 model engine/fairing guards.

Speaker Bracket. For use only with the 2010 model engine/fairing guards.

Your choice of brilliant, durable chrome plating or tactical black powder coating on all major components except for the baton/flashlight holder and speaker bracket which are available only in black.

Instructions and all necessary hardware for installation on the motorcycle.

All components are sold separately. Call or email us for pricing and availability.

Note 1: Your installation may require additional bracketry, hardware, drilling, etc. based on what your department adds to the bike. Most law enforcement agency’s fabricate their own bracketry (if required) to suit their specific needs.

Note 2: As with all of our engine guards or crash bars, etc., they are designed to provide basic no-speed or low-speed roll-over protection for the vehicle and are not intended to prevent personal injury.

Note 3: Saddlebag opening is restricted, though adequate, after installation of bars. Retainer strap should be shortened to prevent bag doors from hitting bars when opened. Saddlebags are still removable after installation of bars.

Note 4: Replacement components are available. Contact us for pricing.

These can be purchased from Wattco Emergency Equipment Inc. – www.wattco.net

ChargeGuard releases the ChargeGuard Select

admin — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 19:56:38 +0000

How CHARGEGUARD® Select Works:

Automatically turns mobile equipment on when you start the motor

When you turn the motor off, the equipment stays on from 5 seconds to infinity depending on the selected time delay setting

Turns equipment off before pre-set time if voltage drops too low.

Diagnostic LED helps troubleshoot voltage problems

What CHARGEGUARD® Select Delivers:

Higher productivity

Equipment is on when you want it on – leave unattended with no worry

Reduces down time caused by service calls

Lower maintenance cost

Prevents battery wear and tear

Saves battery replacement costs

Reduces service calls and aids in troubleshooting

Reduces fuel cost by not needing engine on to run equipment.

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Safety Site – Super LED Traffic Control

admin — Sat, 07 Jun 2008 04:48:04 +0000

Download the Brochure Cick Here

The safe, environmentally friendly alternative to flares. Highly effective LED light modules designed for temporary warning in a wide range of situations and applications. Modules can be used in the horizontal or vertical position and can be attached to highway cones for added visibility. Compact Cordura® duffle bag stores five light modules for ready access.

FEATURES

■ Long lasting, heavy-duty Super-LED modules are super bright, super efficient.

■ Safer than traditional flares …won’t burn clothing or ignite grass or leaf fires.

■ Four standard flash patterns: CometFlash®, SingleFlash, Steady-Burn and FlareFlicker.

■ Electronics are encapsulated for moisture and vibration resistance, lenses and housings are rugged polycarbonate.

■ Kit includes Cordura® carrying case and five LED modules.

■ Environmentally safe, easy to set up and deploy.

■ Visibility range, five to seven miles.

■ Cost effective … LEDs are rated for 100,000 hours of operation.

■ Optional elevation ring adaptor for mounting on any traffic cone or road triangle.

■ Power source: Three alkaline size C batteries, not included.

■ Battery life approximately 100 hours.

■ Available in red and amber.

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Product Release – Whelen Avenger

admin — Thu, 24 Apr 2008 01:28:17 +0000

The Whelen Avenger has been released. Full Literature – Click Here

NEW design with a more sleek look than its predecessor,
the Avenger is still a compact little light with a big attitude! Avenger packs full-size Super-LED power that rivals strobe in intensity. This is serious warning protection in a small package that’s easy to mount or transfer from vehicle to vehicle.

FEATURES (all models)

■ Small size and clear outer
lenses make Avenger barely detectable until powered on.
■ Single, dual or split module, Linear Super-LEDs.
■ Standard swivel/bail bracket with three suction cups.
■ Snap-on polycarbonate hood secures with two screws, minimizing
flashback to the driver.
■ Lightweight and sturdy. Rated for 100,000 hours of operation.
■ Polycarbonate assembly is safer than metal in the event of an accident or airbag deployment.

AVN Models:

■ Multiple Scan-Lock™ flash
patterns. 27 patterns on single unit and 34 patterns on dual.
■ Selection switch for flash
patterns is now located on the cigar lighter plug.
■ Split LED models available.
■ Eight foot straight cord with cigar plug On/Off switch and Scan-Lock™ flash pattern control.

AVNS Synchronized Models:

■ Synchronized models for unified warning lighting on your vehicle.
■ Multiple Scan-Lock flash
patterns. 54 patterns on single unit and 69 patterns on dual.
■ Phase I and Phase 2 for alternate
and simultaneous flashing.
■ Standard 4-wire pigtails.

Single Modules:

AVN1* ……….Solid color, red, blue, amber or white
AVNS1* ……..Solid color, synchronized, red, blue, amber or white
AVN1J ……….Split color red/blue
AVN1D ………Split color red/white

Dual Modules:

AVN2** ……Solid color
AVNS2** ….Solid color, synchronized

Options:

AVNBKT1* …..Low profile mounting (headliner) bracket for AV1 Series
AVNBKT2 ……Low profile mounting (headliner) bracket for AV2 Series.
AVNBKT3 ……Visor mounting bracket, each (2 required for dual unit).
AVNBKT4 ……Adjustable height bracket kit, for all Avengers.
AVBKT5 ……..Headliner Mounting Bracket for 2003-2008 Crown Vic’s for All Avengers.

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Gamber-Johnson – New Docking Stations

admin — Wed, 16 Apr 2008 06:28:43 +0000

Industry’s First Magnesium Docking Station
Setting the Industry Standard

The CF30 magnesium dock represents innovative design and break-through technology, both utility and design patents are pending for this product.

View the entire Toughbook 30 Mag Docking Station product line:

Rock Solid Releases – New Toughbook 30 Magnesium Docking Station

Press Release – Integrating the Metal of the Future into Gamber-Johnson Innovative Line of Docking Stations
Press Release – Cost-effective, high-performance docking station for the Panasonic Toughbook 30
White Paper – Magnesium, Metal of the future: Evolutions in Technology Bring Innovations to Design: Applicability of Magnesium Alloy AZ91-D for Rugged Docking Stations

FAQs

Why make the move to magnesium now?

Magnesium’s growing popularity is due, in large part, to simply gaining a better understanding of the element, its abundance and its uses. In addition, magnesium’s reputation as a highly flammable entity has cooled. Yes – powdered, shaved or thin strip magnesium is easy to ignite, but try to do the same to magnesium in mass or bulk.

Because magnesium alloys for die-casting have an ignition temperature of 850°F, a cast magnesium component is usually the last thing to ignite in a fire. And because magnesium has such good conductivity, a high-energy source and an ample supply of air are needed to even reach this ignition temperature. Tests have shown that flames consume a vehicle before magnesium parts even burn in a car fire. Magnesium keeps its cool.

The entire FAQ is listed after the more button below – Or visit their site for more info

What are the main advantages of a magnesium docking station for the consumer?

Low density. Magnesium is 33 percent lighter than aluminum, 62 percent lighter than titanium, approximately one-quarter the weight of zinc, and has a relative density only 1.7 times that of water. Steel and iron are four times heavier than magnesium.

The new CF30 weighs approximately six pounds. By taking weight out of the dock the entire mounting system is less top heavy, which decreases vibration – making the mount sturdier, decreasing wear and tear on the computer and motion attachment, improving the integrity of connections, and leading to higher performance of the mount and more reliable performance of the computer.

This also translates to a decrease in your carbon footprint. Every pound counts when it comes to increasing fuel efficiencies. Car manufacturers are steadily increasing their use of magnesium alloys for parts to decrease the weight of automobiles. Gamber-Johnson has joined the effort to keep the planet cool.

The low density of magnesium alloy has another distinct advantage – affordability. High purity AZ91-D alloy can be machined faster, with less waste and energy. This cost savings is transferred to the end-user –exceptional performance at a competitive price.

How strong is magnesium?

Magnesium has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of all structural metals, except for titanium. Its strength is also better than most other engineering materials or plastics. While pure magnesium is too soft for most structural applications, magnesium alloys combine the best characteristics of magnesium (proportionate strength, malleability, conductivity and dimensional stability) with the corrosion resistance and strength of other metals. The result is an alloy that is strong, yet light.

The CF30 is composed of the magnesium alloy AZ-91D. The A and Z represent aluminum and zinc; the numerals indicate the percentage by weight of each – 9 percent and 1 percent, respectively. Aluminum and zinc add strength and corrosion properties.

Can a magnesium docking station withstand rugged use?

Yes. Magnesium has a greater stiffness –and is less dense – than all other common engineering materials, making it ideal for the rugged wear and tear the CF30 is exposed to. It is also highly dent and impact resistant. Because magnesium doesn’t lose its shape under stress, the lightweight CF30 can withstand the off-road driving of utility and telecommunications vehicles, the high speed chases of public safety vehicles, or the unexpected weighty leaps and bounds of a K9 unit. That means the CF30 doesn’t simply cradle the computer, it helps to ensure better performance of the computer because wires don’t come loose and the expensive innards of the computer are subject to less vibration.

Does magnesium curtail precise design?

Certainly not. In fact, magnesium alloy has such a high fluidity and superior dimensional stability that the docking station can be die cast in one piece to very exacting tolerances. Magnesium alloys can be cast in very intricate geometric structures –therefore, the CF30 hugs every line of your computer, protecting the hub of communications and performance within the mobile office. The result is a docking station with improved reliability, fewer joints and external components, and reduced waste from the die cast processing.

Does the CF30 need to be constructed of a thicker gage because of the lightweight nature of magnesium?

No – just the opposite. Because of magnesium alloy’s high strength-to-weight ratio, thinner gages can be used without the alloy losing its ruggedness. The CF30’s thin gage magnesium alloy construction serves the same purpose without the need for layering required by other metals.

This contributes to sleek design simplification. Because thin gage magnesium alloy remains resistant to denting and bending, it is much easier to work with when designing a docking station. The design needn’t be fortified in order to make it rugged. The result is a lightweight docking station with greater ruggedness for longer life, greater stiffness, better denting resistance, and a smoother surface for improved appearance and function. The CF30’s MAG Dock high performance is matched by its attractive appearance.

How well does magnesium absorb vibration?

Magnesium alloy has very high energy absorbing characteristics –that means it excels at dampening vibration. According to the Co-operative Research Centre for Cast Metals Manufacturing, magnesium alloy is significantly better at dampening vibration than aluminum and steel on an equal weight basis.

Think of the CF30 docking station as one of the latest in magnesium alloy mountain bikes –the aluminum alloy absorbs shocks and stress – sparing the rider – and allows the rider greater ease of movement because of the lightweight alloy. A computer housed in the CF30 will reap the same benefits. The user benefits from secure connections that won’t vibrate loose, knowing the computer is housed in a sturdy and steady docking station, and noise reduction as well.

Is magnesium use and extraction an eco-friendly process?

Yes. Magnesium is an excellent “green” material – it is readily recyclable, die-casting is a high efficiency and low-waste process, and the nearly inexhaustible supply of magnesium is readily converted leaving only non-toxic and nonpolluting byproducts. Scrap and components can be recycled to the same high purity and quality standards as primary alloy. Long-term use has minimal environmental impact and significant energy savings.

In addition, the hot chamber die-casting method used to manufacture the CF30 allows for greater manufacturing efficiencies, less waste, a faster casting cycle time, and the use of less energy. Hot process, cool planet. Low waste and energy use, high performance.

Can magnesium handle the elevated temperatures that some laptop computers generate?

Yes. Because of magnesium’s high thermal conductivity, it readily and effectively dissipates heat generated by a laptop computer – keeping it cooler and ensuring better software and hardware performance.

Can magnesium be cast into user-friendly docking stations?

Magnesium has a better surface finish than plastic molded parts and a smooth surface that gives docking stations a cool, rich finish, and allows for user comfort with rounded edges and sleek design.

Can magnesium shield electromagnetic interference (EMI)?

Like most metals, magnesium is inherently conductive and shields out EMI. But it has an advantage over most other alloys because of its fluidity – the thinner the gage, the better it blocks higher frequency EMI used for commercial applications. This equates to high performance, reliable and improved communication for users of the CF30.

Has Gamber-Johnson tested the magnesium alloy CF30?

Yes. For over a year, Gamber-Johnson has conducted engineering, materials, design and production methods to bring about an evolution in design that benefits the consumer without additional cost. The CF30 has been tested by a third party and meets both FCC and MIL-STD-810f test procedures. In addition, the CF30 has undergone shake and vibration tests in accordance with Panasonic Toughbook Testing and approval is pending.

More FDIC Updates…..

admin — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 06:34:54 +0000

E-ONE Introduces Synergy™ at the 2008 FDIC
(4/10/2008)

Ocala, FL, (April 8, 2008) – Synergy, E-ONE’s new enclosed top-mount pumper design featuring up to 528 cubic feet of compartment storage on a compact wheelbase, was introduced Thursday at the 2008 Fire Department Instructors’ Conference.

“Synergy’s design allows firefighters to arrive on the scene with more of their mission-critical equipment, while the shorter wheelbase makes getting to the scene a bit easier,” said Charles Chilton, E-ONE vice president of engineering and product development. “The side- and top-mount configurations also provide unobstructed access to the pump panel, resulting in safer on-scene operations.”

The unique Synergy configuration features a compact pump module design which allows for more overall customization and is available on a commercial chassis or any E-ONE custom chassis. Synergy also features a 1250gpm pump rating and various NFPA ladder and/or equipment storage options.

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Pierce Manufacturing Displays Evolution of PUC Apparatus

Release Date : April 10, 2008

April 10, 2008, Appleton, Wis. — Pierce Manufacturing Inc., North America’s largest manufacturer of fire and rescue apparatus, showcased its expanded line of PUC – Pierce Ultimate Configuration – offerings including a top mount pumper, a 75-foot aluminum aerial ladder and a Contender® PUC at the Fire Department Instructor’s Conference in Indianapolis.

The expanded Pierce® PUC product line includes:

Top Mount PUC – places the pump operator off the street and in an elevated position for better safety and visibility, while reducing the wheelbase 3 to 4 feet and still maintaining all the PUC features. The top mount PUC also offers increased safety with enclosed access steps, lowered crosslays and ease of use with true pump and roll capabilities.
75-foot Aluminum Ladder PUC – features 22 percent more storage space and up to 5 inches shorter wheelbase than traditional 75-foot aluminum ladders. The PUC design lowers crosslays, provides storage for bulky items such as stokes baskets and backboards, and utilizes a simple two-step pump shift operation.
Custom Contender PUC – allows fire departments to customize their rigs cost-effectively and still obtain all the benefits of the PUC design. The Contender PUC also features a redesigned cab with more interior space for crew and equipment.

“The expanded PUC product line gives firefighters additional options in selecting a truck that meets the specific needs of their department without making compromises,” said Wilson Jones, president of Pierce Manufacturing. “We took a design that revolutionized the industry when it was launched in April 2007, and due to its success and industry demand now have it available in a variety of configurations to meet the needs of our customers, no matter the application.”

The PUC was launched last year following extensive industry research by Pierce to meet the needs of fire departments for apparatus that is easier to use, easier to stay safer, easier to store more, easier to service and maintain, and easier to maneuver. The PUC is an industry-changing, multi-purpose response vehicle that dramatically changes the way fire service configures apparatus by removing the bulky pumphouse without compromising fire fighting capabilities.

About Pierce Manufacturing
Pierce Manufacturing Inc., an Oshkosh Corporation [NYSE: OSK] company, is the leading North American manufacturer of custom fire apparatus. Products include custom and commercial pumpers, aerials, rescue trucks, wildland trucks, minipumpers, elliptical tankers and homeland security apparatus. In addition, Pierce designs its own foam systems and was the first company to introduce frontal airbags and the Side Roll Protection system to fire apparatus. To learn more about Pierce, visit www.piercemfg.com.

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FDIC New Product Release – Whelen Pioneer

admin — Sat, 12 Apr 2008 18:14:16 +0000

The Whelen Pioneer Series has been announced. Designed to take the place of current front brown mount lighting systems in both halogen and HID. It looks like this will be the cutting edge piece for your latest equipment build. Now we await the official release date. Here are some additional details.

PDF Download – Click here

Pioneer Floodlight puts all the performance and reliability of LED technology
into a 75 watt LED package, producing 6000 Lumens.

■ Solid-State electronics and lamp source that are proven
reliable and durable, eliminating the high cost of lamp or
ballast replacements.

■ No high current in rush when activated.

■ Draws 6 amps peak at 12.8 vdc.

■ Pioneer LED flood lights are instant On/Off eliminating the high current warm up time associated with other light sources currently available.

■ Pioneer Series LED Floodlights can be flashed for added warning in the “Clearing Right of Way Mode”. External
flasher required.

■ Rugged all aluminum construction, powder coated finish.

■ Floodlight housing is adjustable up to 20 degrees downward angle maximizing light effectiveness.

■ Mounting brackets are designed to be contoured to fit mounting surface radiuses.

■ HDP® Heavy-Duty Professional 5 year warranty.

■ Low operating temperature.

■ Pioneer LED flood lights do not emit ultra violet light that attracts insects during night time operation, like other lights sources do.

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FDIC New Product Release – Whelen

admin — Thu, 10 Apr 2008 15:19:30 +0000

Whelen has introduced an entire new line of vehicle lightheads:

Details are in the pdf – please click the image below to download it:

The only Patented Linear-LED® lightheads with a bold look to the future in fire, ambulance and rescue truck emergency lighting. Designed to stand-up to the harsh environments and standards of the industry while providing top of the line performance!

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