ARC Plus Touch


The Industry’s Most Powerful Remote Control

The ARC Plus Touch brings power, flexibility and efficiency to IP-based broadcast remote control. Taking advantage of the scalability of IP and offering innovative options for I/O hardware connectivity, the ARC Plus Touch connects an unlimited number of sites, each with up to 256 channels of metering, status and command.

IP-Based Control Built for the Realities of Broadcast

Bandwidth-friendly, the ARC Plus Touch is optimized for real-world broadcast links, eliminating the need for costly legacy solutions.

Efficient, Flexible Alarm Notification

Alert appropriate personnel with selective alarms. Targeted alerts via email, SMS, or the optional telephone Recordable Speech Interface (RSI) assure the proper response.

Better Access than Ever Before

The ARC Plus Touch supports a wide range of operator access options. The convenient touch screen makes monitoring and control simple. The built-in web interface allows access from any PC without installing software. Mobile access is possible using the mobile web interface or optional telephone interface. PC-based management using AutoPilot supports IP connectivity to multiple sites.

SNMP Plus

Now it’s easier than ever to connect to remote site equipment using SNMP Plus, the new optional SNMP manager inside the ARC Plus Touch or ARC Plus SL*. Integrate any SNMP-enabled device on your LAN or WAN with no additional wiring.

Built-in Support for Jet™ Active Flowcharts

The Jet Active Flowcharts option makes intelligent automatic site control easier than ever. Create automatic functions quickly by drawing simple flowcharts—no code required. Automatic functionality is built into the ARC Plus Touch, eliminating the need for a full-time PC connection

AutoPilot® Monitoring and Control Software

Use the optional AutoPilot software to manage your ARC Plus Touch and ARC Solo systems.

Optional Recordable Speech Interface

The optional RSI Enables dial-in/dial-out telephone control for the ARC Plus Touch. Featuring a pre-recorded vocabulary tailored for the broadcast industry, users can add up to 1,000 words or short phrases using standard .WAV files.

See ARC Plus Touch in action: Check out our live demo. (Username: demo, Password: demo

Dimensions:

3.5” (8.89 cm) H x 19” (48.26 cm) W x 12” (30.48 cm) D

Operating Temperature/Humidity:

0° to 40° C; 5 to 85% RH

Power Requirements:

100 to 240 VAC, 47-63Hz, 1A; Power entry module with standard, grounded power cord supplied; 1A fuse protection.

Memory:

Non-volatile FLASH memory stores user-configuration data for 20 years without power; Battery-backed real-time clock retains time/date information for 25 years.

Front Panel Interface:

Full color LCD display with touchscreen Red/green power and alarm indicator

Communication Ports:

Ethernet jack for 10/100BaseT, Plus-X connections; COM port for optional RS-232 PC connection.

ARC Plus
Touch

ARC Plus
SL

Number of sites per system1,0241,024
Maximum number of channels per unit256256
Rack space required (main unit only)2U1U
Built-in web server

Built-in PDA/Smartphone interface

Email/SMS alarm notifications

Multiple levels of alarm severity

Adjustable alarm delays

Onboard virtual channels

Onboard macros (no PC required forautomatic functions)

Macros can use events/conditions at onelocation to control another location (site-to-site control)

Ethernet/serial link to selecttransmitters (without parallel wiring)

Ethernet link to GPIO panels

IP-based multisite connectivity

Secure IP communication

PC connectivity via full-time serialmodem (requires Burk SL-1 Serial LAN Extender)

PC connectivity via dial-up modem

Front panel display

Dial-out alarm notifications*Optional

Precision RF Sensor

Part #: PRF-1

The Precision RF Sensor produces scalable DC samples from any directional coupler, providing reliable forward and reflected power indications, permitting accurate VSWR calculation. The sensor connects to the directional coupler through a type “N” Connector. Bring the sample into any remote control system, or use with the Plus-X VSWR for monitoring of antenna sites with Arcturus or ARC Plus. Each transmission line typically requires two RF sensors, one for forward power and one for reflected power. 

Wide frequency response from 50 to 1000 MHz enables accurate measurement of individual transmitter outputs or multi-channel RF signals such as those found in combined antenna systems. The Precision RF Sensor accommodates signals with high or low peak to average ratios, making it suitable for both analog and digital power measurement. 

The unit can be installed on any directional coupler equipped with a Type N connector, without the need for additional mounting hardware.



 

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Transient Suppressor

Part #: TS-1

Transient Suppressor with Flexible Mounting Options

 The TS-1 Transient Suppressor provides transient voltage surge suppression for equipment connected to a dial telephone line with standard RJ-13 or RJ-11 connectors. The high quality die cast aluminum enclosure houses a passive, three-stage protection device designed to conduct destructive energy safely to ground.

Both RJ connections are protected, while allowing the normal ring voltage and voice or data to pass unimpeded. Studio or transmitter audio equipment connected to a two-pair dedicated stereo telco circuit may be protected with the TS-1.

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Data Access Arrangement for RSI

Part #: DAA2

Replacement Data Access Arrangement for the RSI used in ARC Plus Touch and ARC Solo

Line Voltage Sensor

Part #: LVS

Monitor AC Power Circuits

Each LVS monitors a single phase AC power circuit and provides a low-voltage DC output sample that tracks linearly with the AC input voltage. Additional LVS units can be added to monitor multi-phase AC power systems.

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AC Current Sensor

Part #: 910-093-001

Combined Transformer and Signal Conditioner 

The AC Current Sensor combines a transformer and a signal conditioner into one package. The AC Current Sensor has a selectable input range and an industry standard 0-5VDC output. The AC Current Sensor is designed for application on "linear" or sinusoidal AC loads and is housed in a solid-core case.

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Tower Light Monitor

Part #: TLM

Monitor Steady or Flashing Beacon Lamps

The TLM is a universal lamp alarm relay designed to sense the failure of flashing or steady incandescent beacon lamps or steady side lights. The toroidal current sensor provides islolation and allows monitoring of more than one line at a time. The TLM energizes when one or more lamps fail. It will monitor the operation of up to four side lights or four beacon lamps.

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Tower Light Monitor - LED

Part #: TLM-LED

Monitor Steady or Flashing LED Beacon Lamps

The TLM-LED is a universal lamp alarm relay designed to sense the failure of flashing or steady LED beacon lamps or obstruction lamps. The TLM-LED energizes when one or more lamps fail. It will monitor the operation of one to eight beacon or obstruction lamps. All monitored lamps must be the same wattage and voltage. When properly integrated with ARC Plus or ARC Solo systems, it provides the remote lamp monitoring protection required by the FAA-AC No: 150/5345-43E.

Operation

When a lamp fails, the TLM-LED senses a decrease in current flow. After a 10s trip delay, the onboard LED glows and the two alarm outputs energize. The outputs and the LED are reset when the failed lamps are replaced and the unit is recalibrated. Removing the input voltage de-energizes the output and the LED‘s. 

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TEMP-INDOOR Sensor

Part #: TEMP-INDOOR

The TEMP-INDOOR Sensor is a general-purpose, digital, indoor temperature sensor tailored for monitoring ambient temperatures within a room or in an equipment rack. Temperature accuracy: ±0.5° C from -10° C to 85° C. Cables are not supplied with this sensor. Order 25’ RJ-12 cable, part number SENSOR CABLE.

For use with Climate Guard and Plus-X EM Environmental Monitors, ARC Plus systems equipped with a Plus-X EM unit, and ARC Solo systems equipped with the STM-4D Temperature Module option.

TEMP-OUTDOOR Sensor

Part #: TEMP-OUTDOOR

The TEMP-OUTDOOR digital temperature sensor is intended for outdoor or indoor monitoring of equipment or ambient temperatures. Temperature accuracy: ±0.5° C from -10° C to 85° C. The TEMP-OUTDOOR sensor is attached to 25’ of cable with an RJ-12 connector on the end. The sensor has a mounting ring and gasket to accommodate #6 or #8 hardware. The sensing elements are sealed for added protection from dirt and moisture. 

For use with Climate Guard and Plus-X EM Environmental Monitors, ARC Plus systems equipped with a Plus-X EM unit, and ARC Solo systems equipped with the STM-4D Temperature Module option.

TEMP-STACK Sensor

Part #: TEMP-STACK

The TEMP-STACK Sensor is a digital stack temperature sensor designed for sensing heat within the air ducting of your equipment. Temperature accuracy: ±0.5° C from -10° C to 85° C. The TEMP-STACK Sensor is attached to 25’ of cable with an RJ-12 connector. The sensor is mounted in the tip of a 3/8” diameter chrome tube. The supplied mounting hardware consists of a base and a compression fitting to allow the sensor to be secured at variable depths. This allows the installer to locate the sensor up to 9 1/2” from the equipment wall, well within the airflow being monitored.

For use with Climate Guard and Plus-X EM Environmental Monitors, ARC Plus systems equipped with a Plus-X EM unit, and ARC Solo systems equipped with the STM-4D Temperature Module option.

TEMP-WALLMOUNT Sensor

Part #: TEMP-WALLMOUNT

The TEMP-WALLMOUNT Sensor is housed in a 2 5/8” x 5” enclosure with air vents to facilitate sensing of the environment. Temperature accuracy: ±0.5° C from -10° C to 85° C. A 14’ cable is provided with an RJ-12 connector on one end. The TEMP-INDOOR has a large, easy to connect barrier strip that accommodates flat or Phillips type screwdrivers.

For use with Climate Guard and Plus-X EM Environmental Monitors, ARC Plus systems equipped with a Plus-X EM unit, and ARC Solo systems equipped with the STM-4D Temperature Module option.

Humidity Sensor

Part #: HUMIDITY SENSOR

Combined digital humidity and temperature sensor. Humidity range from 0–100% RH. Temperature accuracy for Humidity Sensors Rev C and above is ±0.5° C from -10° C to 85° C. Requires Digital Sensor Cable.

For use with Climate Guard and Plus-X EM Environmental Monitors and ARC Plus systems equipped with a Plus-X EM unit.

Recordable Speech Interface

Part #: RSI

Dial-In / Dial-Out Telephone Control and Monitoring for ARC Plus Touch


Fast, Reliable Site Access

The Recordable Speech Interface option for ARC Plus Touch gives broadcast engineers control over their remote sites via DTMF commands and voice reporting. A phone call is often the fastest way to check site status and take action. A single touch on your speed-dial button connects you directly to your site without the need for time-consuming IT log-in procedures.

Phone Alerts Get Through

Broadcast engineers need instant notification when a critical site problem occurs, such as an off-air emergency, program loss, or a tower lighting outage. Some of these issues require immediate response to maintain compliance with FCC or FAA regulations. Others can result in off-air time and lost revenue.

Alarm notifications can get lost in the constant noise and clutter of emails and text messages, but a phone call breaks through. Even at night, selective ring tones on your cell phone can wake you up when a call comes from the transmitter site, while letting you snooze though other calls.

Connect Without a Phone Line

A variety of cost-effective options make it easy to connect the RSI phone interface, even without a traditional analog phone line. A Voice over IP adapter can link the RSI to your IP network. A POTS over LTE adapter takes advantage of available cellular services. The benefits of telephone-based remote control are yours over virtually any available communications network.

Redundant Phone Interface Control

When two or more ARC Plus sites are equipped with RSI they can be configured to provide redundant phone access, ensuring reliable connectivity even when there is a phone line failure to one site.

Dial-Out Lists Tailored to Specific Alarms

Each metering and status alarm can be configured to trigger dial-out notifications to telephone numbers on up to 32 unique dial-out lists plus a master dial-out list.

Flexible Voice Messages

RSI features a pre-recorded vocabulary tailored for the broadcast industry and allows users to add up to 1,000 words or short phrases using standard WAV files.

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ARC Plus Touch Installation and Setup


I/O Options

SNMP Plus

Control any SNMP device on your LAN or WAN


Save time and reduce wiring cost.

Now it’s easier than ever to connect to remote site equipment using SNMP Plus, the new optional SNMP manager inside the ARC Plus Touch or ARC Plus SL*. Integrate any SNMP-enabled device on your LAN or WAN with no additional wiring.

Monitor, display and log SNMP data in real time.

Map SNMP data directly to ARC Plus status and meter channels. Set alarm thresholds for fault detection. Respond automatically to changes in SNMP parameters using JetTM Active Flowcharts.

Manage alarms efficiently.

SNMP Traps, changes on SNMP status channels or threshold crossings on SNMP meter channels can be configured to generate email or SMS text alarm messages, or to make dial-out telephone calls using the Recordable Speech Interface, just like any other ARC Plus channel.

Take control with SNMP.

All the command and control capabilities of the ARC Plus Touch and ARC Plus SL can now be directed to your SNMP-enabled site equipment. Configure ARC Plus control channels to send SNMP “set” commands. Send commands to SNMP equipment on-the-fly using the ARC Plus smartphone interface. Combine SNMP with traditional parallel I/O in comprehensive automated functions.

Mix it up with SNMP Plus and Plus-X I/O.

SNMP-enabled devices at the transmitter site sit side-by-side with units that require parallel wiring for meters, status and control connections. Plus-X units let you distribute this I/O wherever it is needed in the broadcast facility or at other remote sites. ARC Plus connects to Plus-X units over the same LAN or WAN that it uses for SNMP communication, simplifying wiring and providing total facility control.

* Requires Version 5 ARC Plus Touch or ARC Plus SL.

Plus-X IIU

Expandable Metering and Status for the ARC Plus

Each Plus-X Integrated Input Unit (Plus-X IIU) connects 16 meter and up to 32* status channels to the ARC Plus. Metering channels can be configured for different voltage ranges, and may optionally be used as status inputs. Connect up to 16 Plus-X Integrated Input Units to one ARC Plus for 256 input channels.

Economically Expand Remote Control

Add Plus-X Integrated Input Units anywhere IP access is available. Use existing ARC Plus units to monitor and control additional remote sites.

*Includes 16 dedicated status inputs. Meter channels may be used as status inputs for a total of 32 status channels.

Plus-X ICRU

Command Channels for the ARC Plus Grow with your Needs

Each Plus-X Integrated Command Relay Unit (Plus-X ICRU) facilitates the connection of 16 relays to the ARC Plus. Relays can be used individually, or in raise/lower pairs, and can be configured as momentary or latching. Connect up to 32 units to one ARC Plus for 256 channels.

Economically Expand Remote Control

Add Plus-X Integrated Command Relay Units anywhere IP access is available. Use existing ARC Plus units to monitor and control additional remote sites.

Plus-X 300

Now it’s easier than ever to monitor and control equipment in all areas of the facility using simple, Ethernet-based connectivity. The Plus-X 300 eight-channel I/O interface adds eight metering or status inputs and eight relay outputs to any new or existing ARC Plus remote control system, providing a versatile, cost-effective expansion path.

Thanks to IP connectivity between the Plus-X 300 and the ARC Plus, installation is straightforward. Sample voltages connect directly to the Plus-X 300 using the included Phoenix-type connectors. There is no need for external breakout panels.

Plus-X 600

Versatile I/O

The Plus-X 600 is designed to be a versatile I/O solution, suitable for a wide range of applications. Its 1RU form factor allows maximum functionality in minimal space, with a cost effective combination of channels.

Easy Installation

Thanks to IP connectivity between the Plus-X 600 and the ARC Plus, installation is straightforward. Sample voltages connect directly to the Plus-X 600 using the included Phoenix-type connectors. There is no need for external breakout panels.

Affordable Expansion Options

The Plus-X 600 is part of the Plus-X family of ARC Plus Ethernet I/O devices. Expanding an ARC Plus system is easy and affordable. IP connectivity allows installation of additional units virtually anywhere, and the 256 channel capacity of the ARC Plus leaves plenty of room for future expansion.

PlusConnect TM

More Control. Less Wiring.

By combining the power of the ARC Plus with the convenience of a direct link to the transmitter, the PlusConnect allows broadcasters to manage the entire transmission plant, studio, and IT infrastructure on a single platform.

The PlusConnect provides a seamless link between the ARC Plus remote monitoring and control system and the transmitter, bringing hundreds of transmitter parameters* aboard the ARC Plus. A single serial or Ethernet connection to the transmitter reduces installation time and saves the expense of adding remote control capacity.

IP Architecture

IP connectivity between the ARC Plus and the PlusConnect eliminates the need to run new wires or cable from the transmitter to the remote control. Just add the PlusConnect to your network. ARC Plus communications are secure thanks to an encrypted digital signature sent with each packet.

Optimized Software Display

With an AutoPilot® Plus operator interface customized for each supported transmitter, managing the transmitter via software is easier than ever. Essential parameters are integrated in a streamlined custom view – no layout or design work needed. Adding more channels is easy with the drag-and-drop custom view editor.

*Actual number of parameters depends on the transmitter model.

Plus-X EM

Environmental Monitoring for the ARC Plus Remote Control

The Plus-X EM series brings extensive environmental monitoring and control capabilities to the ARC Plus remote control system.  Plus-X EM units can be located where needed in transmitter sites and rack rooms with convenient Ethernet / IP connectivity to the ARC Plus control unit.

Protect your Equipment and Data

Environmental problems at remote sites can cause costly downtime, damage expensive equipment, and even lead to loss of mission-critical data. HVAC equipment failure, power outages, and simple human error can cause catastrophic problems—especially when running unattended. Broadcast equipment requires comprehensive monitoring of environmental conditions to detect a problem as early as possible.

The Plus-X EM series monitors temperature, humidity, flood/leak, and many other conditions that can cause serious problems. Email, SMS and SNMP notifications ensure that responsible personnel can respond quickly and effectively.

Watch for Early Warning Signs

Not all problems happen suddenly. A change in how equipment behaves over time may be an early warning sign of a serious problem. A gradual rise in temperature or a change in sound level may be evidence of impending equipment failure. Onboard charting allows you to watch for changes in environmental conditions over time, preventing a problem from becoming a crisis.

A Monitoring Solution that Grows with your Needs

The Plus-X EM series’ unique modular design allows you to add capacity and features as you need them. Easily add new sensors as you add equipment, and take advantage of new functionality when you need it.

Plus-X EM 64 can support up to a total of 64 sensors, including 3 built-in sensors, 8 switch inputs connected to the real panel connector, 8 powered switch inputs and up to 45 digital sensors connected in daisy-chain configuration to the front panel sensor ports. One or two optional modules can be installed in the front of the Plus-X 64 unit to simplify daisy-chain wiring and/or to increase the number of switch inputs or powered switch inputs, up to an overall total of 64 sensors.

Plus-X 32 is a convenient package providing up to a total of 32 sensors including 3 built-in sensors, 8 powered switch inputs and up to 21 digital sensors connected in daisy-chain configuration to the front panel sensor ports.

See Plus-X EM in action: Check out our live Climate Guard demo. (Username: demo, Password: demo)

Plus-X AC-8

Remote Outlet Control Means Fewer Site Visits

The Plus-X AC-8 remote outlet controller makes it easy to manage power to 120V equipment at remote locations. Connect the Plus-X AC-8 to PCs, servers and other IT or broadcast equipment, and save wasted drive time when remote gear needs a power cycle.

Connect the Plus-X AC-8 to the Burk ARC Plus, interface it with an existing transmitter remote control, or operate it in web-only mode. No matter what you choose, the Plus-X AC-8 offers unmatched versatility.

Plus-X Dual IP-8 Adapter

Upgrade your ARC-16 without Rewiring

Upgrading legacy ARC-16 systems is faster and more affordable than ever. The Plus-X Dual IP-8 Adapter connects to up to two ARC-16 IP-8s using the same DB37 cables as the ARC-16. Not a single channel needs to be rewired to upgrade to the ARC Plus Touch, saving hours of work.

Cost Effective Upgrade

The Plus-X Dual IP-8 Adapter includes all the I/O needed for up to 16 channels, eliminating the need for additional input and output units.

With its 256 channel capacity and Ethernet I/O architecture, a single ARC Plus can replace multiple ARC-16 systems. Simply install a Plus-X Dual IP-8 Adapter at each site.

Plus-X GSC Adapter

Upgrade your GSC or VRC without Rewiring

Upgrading legacy GSC and VRC systems is faster and more affordable than ever. The Plus-X GSC Adapter connects to up to two GSC/VRC wiring interfaces and command relays using the same DB37 cables as the legacy remote control. Not a single channel needs to be rewired to upgrade to the ARC Plus Touch, saving hours of work.


Cost Effective Upgrade

The Plus-X GSC Adapter includes all the I/O needed for up to 16 channels, eliminating the need for additional input and output units.

With its 256 channel capacity and Ethernet I/O architecture, a single ARC Plus can replace multiple GSC300 or VRC2500 systems. Simply install a Plus-X GSC Adapter at each site.

Plus-X VSWR

Protect your RF Plant Investment

Plus-X VSWR protects your investment in RF combiners, transmission lines and antenna systems by fast activation of transmitter interlocks. The system monitors forward and reflected power on up to four transmission lines, continuously updating VSWR calculations, and takes immediate action when user-defined thresholds are exceeded.

Integrate with ARC Plus or Arcturus

Plus-X VSWR combines with other Plus-X devices in your system for comprehensive monitoring and control of your entire operation.

Fault Tolerant Design

Redundant relay outputs assure reliable interlock operation. Three strike logic provides quick recovery from transient events, maximizing uptime while keeping the system safe.

Fully Autonomous Operation

Even if the connection to the remote control is lost, Plus-X VSWR continues to operate.


Ordering information

Part #Product
ARC PLUS TOUCHARC Plus Touch Remote ControlRequest quote

  

RSIRecordable Speech InterfaceRequest quote

Recordable Speech Interface option for ARC Plus Touch

GAN ARC PLUS TOUCH Good as new ARC Plus Touch to V5 Request quote

Upgrade existing ARC Plus Touch to Version 5. Includes touchscreen interface, new motherboard and new two year warranty.Does NOT include RSI.

GAN ARC PLUS TOUCH W/ESI Good As New ARC Plus Touch w/ESI to V5 with RSI Request quote

Upgrade existing ARC Plus Touch to Version 5. Includes touchscreen interface, new motherboard and new two year warranty.  Replaces ESI with RSI

GAN ARC PLUS Good as new ARC Plus to ARC Plus Touch V5 Request quote

Upgrade existing ARC Plus to ARC Plus Touch Version 5. Includes touchscreen interface, new motherboard and new two year warranty. Does NOT include RSI. Requires Plus-X or Plus Connect I/O. Plus Bus users should contact Burk Technology for upgrade information.

GAN ARC PLUS W/ESI Good as new ARC Plus w/ESI to ARC Plus Touch V5 with RSI Request quote

Upgrade existing ARC Plus to ARC Plus Touch Version 5. Includes touchscreen interface, new motherboard and new two year warranty. Replaces ESI with RSI. Requires Plus-X or Plus Connect I/O. Plus Bus users should contact Burk Technology for upgrade information.

Key Features

  • IP-based broadcast remote control for exceptional scalability
  • Easy operator access via touch screen, web, software or telephone
  • Email alerts and selective alarm reporting allow efficient fault resolution
  • Ready for expansion - scales to 256 metering and status channels, 256 relay pairs (momentary and latching) and 512 virtual channels