Spare Transmitter
This is teaching a second transmitter to the same receiver and keeping it ready. It prevents the machine from stopping when the main remote control is dropped and damaged, its battery runs out, or it is lost. In facilities working in shifts it is one of the lowest-cost measures for reducing downtime.
Because the receiver memory can hold more than one identity code, a spare transmitter does not require a separate receiver; it is taught to the same receiver and put into service when needed. The value of having a spare comes from the fact that failures most often occur in the handheld unit: dropping, impact and enclosure cracks are the typical causes of damage to the transmitter.
Rules to be followed in a spare transmitter arrangement:
- They are not used at the same time. When two transmitters are used together, opposing direction commands can clash; it must be made operationally clear which single remote control is authorised at that moment.
- Storage discipline: the spare transmitter must be kept in a locked cabinet and must not be left unattended in the field.
- Periodic testing: a spare that is never used may be found with a flat battery at the moment it is needed. Include it in the maintenance list.
- Li-Po storage: a rechargeable transmitter that will not be used for a long time should be stored at 40–60% charge.
When buying a spare transmitter, state the set's remote control type correctly: the ST series works with the LT200 and the SF series with the LF200 remote control.
The context in which this term is used: Wireless Crane Remote Control Selection Guide