Council and Large Landscape
The Cloudmaster unit enables Councils to control and monitor irrigation, floodlighting, security and car park lighting, hot water systems, barbecues etc. at all remote parks scattered around the municipality. This is achieved through the 3G cellular network via our modems which are running software developed by us to provide a secure and robust connection.
Central PC Communications
The Cloudmaster central application can be hosted on any Windows based PC or server such as a desktop PC or Notebook computer, or a virtual server in the server room. A dedicated PC is recommended. An internet connection is required for the central application to connect to the Cloudmaster units in the field.
Teamviewer allows multiple operators remote access the software. Given the authority, we can provide support and training to our clients. Only a single instance of the application should access a Cloudmaster unit.
Remote control enables users to dial in from their home or portable notebook computer, or for us to remotely support the Cloudmaster software with upgrades, training and assistance etc.
SMS messaging can be used by after hours or maintenance staff to control and monitor the Cloudmaster units. Stations can be turned on or off, programs can be started, halted or stepped, lighting and irrigation functionality can be separately enabled or disabled. Current activity, such as what stations are active and remaining run times can be queried.
Advantages:
- Floodlight control by clubs or irrigation control by staff via SMS from any mobile phone.
- Antennas are small and can be mounted indoors – reduced vandalism and cost.
- Can communicate at any time during the day.
- Easy to set up and install. Ideal for a Cloudmaster trial.
- Ability to dial in to a park from any location.
- Real time SMS alarm messages (wiring or hydraulic faults etc.) to any mobile phone.
- 3G network coverage is required at the park and mobile phone charges will apply each time the PC dials the park. Under normal operating conditions the PC only needs to communicate with the remote park when changes are made or to retrieve the history log. This polling can be configured to occur from once a minute to every thirty days.
Contact Jeffery Electronics for further information on other communications options such as dedicated radio repeater or satellite modems.
Images
The Cloudmaster Windows software uses a hierarchy of images representing the total area under control. For example, a Council may have a starting map showing the whole municipality. The software is used to place regions on this image that represent each park. When these regions are double clicked, an image of that park appears with regions representing the irrigation stations, floodlighting poles, BBQs etc. at the park.
In the case of a single site complex, such as a large landscaped area or a golf course, a single image of the whole complex may suffice or subsequent images can be set up to provide greater detail of a particular section.
Digital aerial photographs are ideal for these images although scanned drawings may be better in a situation where a dense tree canopy is likely to obstruct the view of the ground. In either case the image should be between 1000 x 750 pixels and about 2000 x 1500 pixels and landscape in orientation. Keeping the color depth down as far as possible without degrading the image will minimise file size and maximise remote control speed. A maximum of about 4 MB .BMP file (uncompressed) should be used as a guide. File formats can be either .BMP or .JPG.
Jeffery Electronics can assist with setting up the images and regions. When supplying images, it is best to keep them at as higher resolution as possible. We can reduce resolution not increase it.
Cloudmaster LAN Connection
Communications between central PC running the Cloudmaster Windows software and the Cloudmaster® unit can be achieved by a number of methods including:
- Direct cable
- 3G cellular network
- Dedicated radio repeater channel
- Unlicensed radio channel
- Power line modem using mains wiring
- Cable or wireless LAN (Local Area Network)
This information sheet describes the installation and configuration of the LAN connection method