RFC-1 Installation page 3.10
3.4 Control Outputs
While the control relay contacts are rated for 120 volts AC, only low voltage AC or DC sources
should be connected to the RP-8. The large number of exposed terminals on this panel could
result in a hazardous condition to the installer or other personnel if high voltage were present.
Each RP-8 relay panel has eight “On/Raise” relay contacts and eight “Off/Lower” relay contacts. The output relay
contacts are form C (SPDT), floating, and rated at 120 volts AC, 5 amperes resistive, 2 amperes inductive. Both
normally open (NO) and normally closed (NC) contacts are available on the three conductor terminal block for each
relay.
The control relays on the RP-8 are momentary relays that operate as long as the control commands (* or #) are sent
to the RFC-1. An external latching relay must be used if maintained outputs are required. The appropriate output
relay of the RP-8 can be used to provide a control signal to the latching relay. Electrical or mechanical latching relays
can be used but electrical latching relays may chatter if there is a power supply glitch.
3.5 Telephone Interface
The RFC-1 should be connected to an ordinary (POTS) telephone line. In some cases a telephone line is either not
available or is prohibitively expensive. There are several alternatives to a regular telephone line that are compatible
with the RFC-1.
3.5.1 Cellular Telephone with an RJ-11 Adapter
It is possible to connect a cellular telephone to the RFC-1 in place of a telephone line. Some phone manufacturers
offer docking-station devices that equip an off-the-shelf cellular telephone with a standard RJ-11 jack. There are also
stand-alone devices that combine the radio and emulation hardware in one device. Both types of devices emulate a
standard telephone line including dial tone, ring voltage and battery.
Most devices of this type operate better in a typical transmitter environment with an external antenna and a constant
power supply. Some manufacturers offer these items as part of their product line. There are also many aftermarket
devices that may be useful. The best approach is to discuss your needs with your supplier to find a solution that
meets the needs of the specific site.
Most devices that emulate a telephone line generate a functional but non-standard ring signal on incoming calls. The
RFC-1 has a firmware adjustment to help it recognize the non-standard ring signal. The Advanced Programming
section of the RFC-1 documentation provides details on making this adjustment.
3.5.2 Fixed Location Cellular Telephones
An alternative to using a mobile cell phone with an RJ-11 adapter is to use a phone designed specifically for fixed
locations. These devices combine the wireless radio and line emulation hardware into one device.
Fixed location devices tend to cost more than docking stations but they are typically more flexible and more robust
then their low-cost counterparts. For instance, most fixed-location devices easily support an external antenna.