Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/48221
76 • DECEMBER 2011 • WORLD FENCE NEWS Wholesale access control distrib- Encon maintains monthly pace of technical seminars utor Encon Electronics held its third technical seminar in three months when they hosted gate operator manu- facturer Viking Access Systems at their training facility in Hayward, Calif. on Oct. 20. Over 30 Encon dealers attended the hands-on workshop led by Viking chief engineer Daniel Perez. He began the seminar with a Q&A session where he provided solutions to at- tendee questions. "We welcome suggestions and even complaints from the dealers be- cause we build the operator for the dealer, not the end user. I am available to talk at any time and encourage everyone to visit me in our corporate offices in Irvine," he said. Based on attendee feedback, Perez's honest and approachable inter- action was appreciated and respected. "The speaker was very well in- formed and open to feedback. His presentation style kept it interesting," said John Bridston of Ornamental Iron Supply Depot in San Jose, Calif. Dean Sizemore, of Tholl Fence in Sparks, Nevada, said, "I appreciated the opportunity to communicate with the manufacturer directly. He provided detailed information and concrete de- tails." "Mr. Perez was very knowledge- able and listened to all the suggestions for changes," added Thom Morgan of Morgan Fence and Iron, Inc. in Vallejo, Calif. Perez followed with the presenta- tion portion of the seminar but main- tained an informal format throughout the day. This allowed for an open flow of information between him and the at- tendees. He discussed wiring, voltage settings and the advantages of using a plug-in transformer. He also provided an extensive overview of Viking Blue Technology. "The Blue wireless communica- tion system has a range of 100 to 1,000 feet, depending on the size of the an- tenna you install. You need to make sure the antenna is externally mounted to get maximum range," he noted. "The Viking Blue offers a sophis- ticated diagnostic system that allows remote operation of the timer adjust- ment and obstructer sensor. You can use 'Blue' to monitor AC/DC voltage, to program motor amperage and to troubleshoot the operator without using a meter," he said. The technology works through a cellular device using touch or voice commands. "You can literally close or open the gate without getting out of your car," Perez said. Encon technical representative Daniel Forte pointed out, "Viking Blue is ideal for high-end installations where you are unable to run cable under the driveway." Next, Perez outlined the multiple new features being implemented into all of the Viking operator models. One of the most popular elements is the new electronic limit switch. "With designated left and right switches, it is easier and more accurate to program. Viking also incorporated a position sensor that tells exactly where the gate is at all times and gives you better control. The new EMI board provides visual communication and gives the installer the ability to test AC and DC," he said. BOOTH NO. 1340!