Fire pump control

The Benelec DRAI — dual radio audio interface — was developed for the NSW Fire Brigade. Mobile radios are mounted inside the cabin of the vehicle. The Benelec DRAI allows firefighters to control pump appliances from the rear of the vehicle and at the same time enable access to radio audio controls during an incident.

Due to the loud ambient noise generated by pumps, the system amplifies the audio providing clear workable radio reception despite the pump noise. Controls for power on and up and down volume are provided by the three-button submersible mikes used at the rear of the vehicle.

The same solution can be offered in a single radio configuration and can be interfaced to all brands and models of two-way radios.

Main features include: single or dual radio interface options; dual 11 W amplified audio output at rear; balanced audio between front and rear amplifier; output gain adjustable for both rear mikes; IP68-rated die-cast housings for AMP and radio interface; rugged IP68 stainless steel housing for rear speakers; rugged IP68 rated mil spec connectors MIL-5015C; IP68 three-button control mike with integrated speaker; internal and external on/off control options; bright ‘power on’ LED in for each rear audio unit; remote power switching option, from front or rear of vehicle (eg, external panel control); integrated stainless mike parking brackets; up to 16 m cable between front and rear of vehicle; system configurable for any brand and model of radio.

Software configurable features include: minimum output volume level; volume control steps (default 64 x 1 dB steps); mike speaker levels; mike speaker amplifier (on/off); TOT — time out timer; LED power status indications; microphone input and output levels; power down options.