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FAQ


Solutions

Will the signals function in extreme weather?

North America Traffic models are engineered to withstand the most extreme weather conditions such as wind, snow, rain and heat, making them ideal for use during natural disasters. All electrical components are rated to operate at -40 C to +80 C temperatures, and our equipment has been tested and approved to meet MUTCD wind load requirements.

What if I need traffic control in a remote location?

North America Traffic signals include solar-charged battery power for self-sufficient, 365-day operation. Even in low-light conditions, they can operate for up to 30 days without a charge. For areas that lack cellular coverage, we have optional satellite Remote Monitoring Systems (RMS) that will tell you how the equipment is operating.

Batteries

How long will the traffic signals continually operate when starting with a fully charged bank of batteries?

North America Traffic signals include solar-charged battery power for self-sufficient, 365-day operation. Even in low-light conditions, they can operate for up to 30 days without a charge. For areas that lack cellular coverage, we have optional satellite Remote Monitoring Systems (RMS) that will tell you how the equipment is operating.

Can I use a generator to charge the battery bank?

Yes. Instructions for connection to, and the use of, a generator for charging purposes can be found in the model’s User Field Guide and Operating Manual.

When should I charge my batteries?

Monitor the battery voltage on a daily basis when the traffic signals are in use. The voltage of the battery bank can be viewed on the signal controller display screen at any time. North America Traffic recommends charging the battery bank when the voltage reads 12.0 volts or less. Routine charging will aid in extending the life of the batteries and prevent damage due to over-discharge. Refer to the model’s User Field Guide or Operator’s Manual for detailed battery charging instructions and safe practices.

How long should I leave the battery bank to charge?

To ensure a full charge, connect the battery bank to a charging source for a continuous 24- to 48-hour period.

Will the solar panels provide a continual charge to the battery bank?

The solar panels provide some charge to the battery bank. You cannot rely on the solar array to provide a consistent charge to the batteries due to uncontrollable circumstances such as cloudy days, shade caused by trees and buildings, or low light conditions experienced in the fall and winter. Supplemental charging from a 110-volt AC source may be required, depending on the duration of use.

Will the solar panels collect sunlight when lying flat?

Yes, the solar array can collect sunlight when lying flat, but it is good practice to have some tilt to the solar array. Always tilt the panels with a southern indication. This angle will increase solar absorption and assist in keeping the panels free of dirt and snow buildup. Some of North America Traffic’s traffic signal trailers are designed with a pivoting and rotating solar array to maximize sun exposure through all seasons.

Is it possible to over-charge batteries?

All of North America Traffic’s traffic signal models use a smart charger, designed to prevent overcharging of the battery bank. Overcharging of batteries typically occurs with the use of trickle chargers (non-smart chargers) or when a battery bank is left to charge for an extended period of time (weeks or months) in very hot temperatures.

Operating traffic signals

Do North America Traffic traffic signal controllers have permanent primary and secondary designations?

No. North America Traffic’s traffic signal controllers allow the user to assign the operating designation to any controller in use on the jobsite during initial setup. This user-friendly feature allows for quick and easy setup onsite, saving time by significantly simplifying the setup process.

Do North America Traffic’s traffic signal controllers require the use of auxiliary equipment or interfaces (i.e. a laptop or micro-terminal) for the purpose of inputting signal timing parameters into the controller?

No. North America Traffic’s traffic signal controller hardware allows the user to quickly and easily input all the necessary settings directly, without the need for any auxiliary equipment or additional interfaces.

How do North America Traffic’s traffic signal trailers communicate with each other when in use on a jobsite?

The most commonly used method of communication is radio communication. North America Traffic’s signal trailers can also be hardwired together for communication purposes, if required.

How far apart can the traffic signals wirelessly communicate with each other?

Models PTL2.4x and PTL2.4LD will communicate up to one mile (1.6 km) with a clear line of sight between the signal trailers. Models RCF 3.4 and RCF 2.4 will communicate up to a half mile (0.8 km) with clear line of sight between the signal trailers.

How many signal trailers can be operated in conjunction on the same jobsite?

Up to eight of North America Traffic's Gen 2 traffic signal trailers and up to twenty Gen 3 traffic signal trailers can operate together to accommodate complex traffic control plans.

Can I operate North America Traffic’s traffic signals manually?

Yes. All of North America Traffic’s signal trailer models can be operated manually at any time during operation by means of a radio remote control or directly from the traffic signal controller.

How to set up Time of Day in One Way Zone applications:
  • Scroll to program, press select button.
  • Scroll to time of day, press select button.
  • Scroll to clock, press select button.
  • (Using the up and down buttons) set correct, date and time.
  • Scroll to plan file, select plan file 1.
  • Scroll to time, select what time you would like plan file 1 to start.
  • Scroll to days, select what days you would like plan file 1 to operate on.
  • Press select button.
  • Scroll to timing, press select.
  • Scroll to phase, and select primary.
  • Enter timing values for primary unit.
  • Scroll to phase, and select secondary 1.
  • Enter timing values for secondary 1 unit.
  • Press select button.
  • Scroll to clock, press select.
  • Scroll to plan file and use up and down buttons to choose plan file 2.
  • Scroll to time, select what time you would like plan file 2 to start.
  • Scroll to days, select what days you would like plan file 2 to operate on. Press select.
  • Scroll to timing, press select.
  • Scroll to phase, select primary.
  • Enter timing values for your primary unit.
  • Scroll to phase, select secondary 1.
  • Enter timing values for secondary unit.

Repeat these steps to enter more plan files. (up to six)

Can North America Traffic’s traffic signals detect approaching vehicles?

Yes. North America Traffic employs various forms of accepted vehicle detection hardware that is used to maximize vehicular flow and increase the safety of the workers within the jobsite. North America Traffic’s traffic signals can also be equipped with hardware that detects the approach of emergency vehicles and even trains. Please contact our sales department at 1-877-352-4626 or by email at info@northamericatraffic.com for further information.

Can I monitor the traffic signals remotely during operation?

Yes, the traffic signals can be monitored remotely with automatic notifications sent via text message or email. Please contact the office at info@northamericatraffic.com for further information.

Can I tow two of North America Traffic’s traffic signal trailers in tandem?

Yes, North America Traffic’s traffic signal trailers can be towed in tandem. Please refer to the local road authority’s rules and regulations.

More Information

How can I obtain a copy of the user field guide and manual for my signal?

Please contact North America Traffic by phone at 1-877-352-4626 or by email info@northamericatraffic.com.

Does North America Traffic offer technical support outside of regular business hours?

Yes, North America Traffic has qualified technicians available 24-7 to provide technical support. The technical support number is 1-877-352-4626.

Videos

Battery Maintenance

An instructional video on Battery Maintenance.

Safe & Efficient

Our Product line can helps make your job site
traffic safe & efficient.