Typical application uses

A Wireless Tone Generator's most common application use is in schools. There it's used to activate the bells or tones that denote the beginning or end of class periods according to a pre-programmed schedule.

In tone configurations the Wireless Tone Generator produces a line-level tone that is accessible via a mini-jack which can be amplified and distributed throughout the facility using the facility's existing PA system. The simple diagram below illustrates a tone configuration.

Some facilities may already have an existing bell/tone scheduling system installed and do not want to use the Primex scheduling software, but want to replace existing clocks with Primex clocks. In this type of setup, the Wireless Tone Generator could possibly be used to synchronize the existing scheduler to the Primex clocks. This will make the bell or tone events occur in sync with the system.

All types of bell scheduler equipment use a master clock to coordinate the timing of the annunciated events. The ability of the Wireless Tone Generator to synchronize a master clock depends on whether the master clock was designed to accept an external synchronization by switched contacts. If this external sync feature does exist, there might be two screw terminals labeled. Possible labels could be; External Sync or reset on the rear panel of the equipment or possibly on the circuit board inside the unit.

Master clock synchronization diagram

If a master clock cannot be updated by the Wireless Tone Generator, another method of synchronizing bells and tones to Primex clocks is to use the Wireless Tone Generator to activate the "user guide test" or "override" of an existing bell or tone scheduler.

In this case, the bell or tone scheduler equipment must have what is commonly referred to as an "All Call" button or a switch that can be activated to sound all the bells at once. The two wires that are switched together to activate the bells or tones must be accessible on the scheduler equipment. These wires are connected to the Wireless Tone Generator’s normally open (NO) contacts.

Synchronized bell/tones or all call diagram

Many facilities have bells or horns to annunciate the beginning and end of scheduled events.

Bell/Horn diagram (indoor application)

The following illustration is an example of the wiring between a bell or horn and the Wireless Tone Generator (indoor applications).

Bell/Horn Diagram (Outdoor Application)

For outdoor installations of bells, it is necessary to mount the Wireless Tone Generator unit indoors in a temperature-controlled environment. Typically, the Wireless Tone Generator is mounted on the inside of an exterior wall and a wire pair is pulled through the wall to the bell, which is mounted outside.

In addition to scheduling bells, the Wireless Tone Generator can be used for a variety of other applications, including the control of lights in a building, regulation of thermostats for heaters and air conditioners, and the activation of alarm systems.

It's imperative that the user or installer be technically qualified to determine compatibility, as the Wireless Tone Generator is limited to switching up to 4.4 amps of current. Note that the DC rating is lower due to its propensity to arc.

Maximum ratings for Wireless Tone Generator relay contacts:

Generic control function diagram

Controlling high power devices

Sometimes it is desired to control a device that draws more than 4.4A of current. An example might be an office building that has wall-type air conditioners that are not controlled by a low-voltage thermostat. An air conditioner draws more than 4.4A, so it cannot be controlled directly by the Wireless Tone Generator. In order to accomplish this, it is necessary to use the Wireless Tone Generator to control a contactor or high current rated relay.