Can I run two separate machines with the same remote control?
Two ways: split one receiver's channels across two machines, or teach the same remote to two receivers. With the second, the command reaches both machines.
Yes, in one of two ways: by distributing the different channels of a single receiver across two machines, or by teaching the same remote control to two separate receivers. The first way can be applied directly with 4 or 6 channel sets. The second depends on the teaching procedure of the set and has to be confirmed before purchase.
1) One receiver, sharing out the channels
In a 4 channel set, CH1-CH2 can drive the first machine and CH3-CH4 the second; with 6 channels you can go up to three mechanisms. This method is compatible with the channel scenarios defined in the product data and requires no extra pairing. Its condition is that the two machines are close enough for cable to be run from the same receiver. Draw up which button will drive which movement from the outset; the channel-to-motor distribution plan is made before the installation, not during it.
The hidden cost of sharing out is the channel budget. A two-speed movement takes two channels on its own; if you plan that into a set split across two machines, the channels run out fast. So first draw up the movement list for each machine, then compare the total with the channel count of the set. Adding channels later means, in most sets, replacing the receiver.
2) The same remote control, two separate receivers
If the machines are far apart from each other, each machine is given its own receiver and the same remote control has to be taught to both. Whether this is possible depends on the teaching procedure of the set and on its identity code logic; confirm it from the user manual or from pre-sales support. The critical side effect of driving more than one receiver with a single remote control is this: when the same button is pressed the command goes to both receivers at once and both machines move at the same time. This behaviour is wanted in a few jobs and dangerous in most; if you are going to use the machines in turn, fit an isolating switch that cuts the supply of the receiver not in use.
Comparison of the two ways
| Criterion | One receiver, shared channels | Two receivers, one remote control |
|---|---|---|
| Distance between the machines | Must be close enough for cable to be run | No distance constraint |
| Channel budget | The total channels are split in two | All channels are used on each machine |
| Extra pairing | Not required | Required; depends on the set |
| Risk of simultaneous movement | None; each button drives a single machine | Present; the command goes to both receivers at once |
| Cost | One receiver is enough | The cost of a second receiver is added |
Where this arrangement is not suitable
- If the operator cannot see both machines at the same time, the single remote control arrangement is not suitable; you cannot drive a machine you cannot see.
- If both machines use all the channels on their own, sharing out cannot be done; draw up the channel requirement before sharing out.
- If the two machines are used by different teams at different times, a separate remote control is both safer and more practical; passing a single device around between shifts increases the risk of loss and of confusion over handover.
- If there are movements that have to exclude one another, separating the channels alone is not enough; contactor interlocking has to be set up as well.
Safety warning: in installations where more than one machine is run from a single remote control, it is critically important that the operator knows at every moment which machine they are driving. Label the channel-to-movement mapping on the remote control and next to the machine with the same names, use mechanical and electrical interlocking on the contactors for movements that have to exclude one another, and make sure that each machine has its own wired emergency stop circuit.
During commissioning press each button in turn and verify that only the expected machine moves. Make the labels from permanent material; a faded tape label on site is riskier than no label at all, because the operator gives commands trusting it.
The full topic: Wireless Crane Remote Control Selection Guide