Ballast Tank Switch UNI 12V

Ballast tank switch (BTS) for controlling a single Piston Tank type EA (AutoStop) and TA (AutoTrim) in 6-12V.

The UNI provides highest safety level ever achieved by an electronic device of this kind. This state-of-the-art BTS has been fitted with new characteristics covering any avoidable risks to the operational safety of your submarine model. The UNI will automatically switch to empty the Piston Tank not only if receiver signal is lost but even if the receiver itself or receiver power (Rx battery or BEC) is defective. In addition, the UNI offers up to three further safety features.

The UNI decodes a proportional (=servo) channel from the receiver to a forward-stop-reverse switch function for the Piston Tank motor. In neutral position of the stick, both relays are off and the motor is stopped. On half way to either end of the stick travel, one relay is activated and the Piston Tank motor starts running. With the optional Pressure Switch (item no. 5029) connected, maximum depth is limited to approx. 1.8 meters (5.9 ft). If the model dives below this level, the UNI will automatically switch to "resurface" and empty the Piston Tank.

Furthermore, the Pressure Switch acts as a second security device. Should the over pressure which builds-up within the hull while submerging (by flooding the tank) be lost due to a leakage, submerging will be terminated by the switch. In this case, the green LED flashes steadily, and the system does not allow the submarine to submerge again until this has been corrected. Alternatively, the UNI offers another fail safe device. If the transmitter signal is lost - due to increased depth or other circumstances - the UNI will switch to "blow" (empty) the Piston Tank.
The UNI also offers a so-called Battery Voltage Monitor. The voltage of the Piston Tank motor battery is permanently verified. Should voltage fall below a specific threshold value (preset to 9V for 12V operation) for more than 5 seconds, the unit will switch to resurfacing. Low battery mode is indicated by lighting of the red LED. It is highly recommend to always making sure all batteries are fully charged before your model commences its journey!

The red LED indicates low battery voltage.  If battery capacity has dropped below preset threshold value the red ED will be lit. This consequently requires the main drive battery to be charged. If the LED lights up although battery voltage is sufficient threshold voltage might be set to high. This can be adjusted by turning the potentiometer on the UNI.

The green LED indicates good signal quality.  If transmitter signal is too weak or lost the green LED will be off. A lost or faulty signal will cause the UNI to automatically switch to EMPTY. The UNI will only react to transmitter commands after signal has reached an acceptable quality level. Other than that the unit will remain in the EMPTY mode. Blinking of the green LED indicates activation of Pressure Switch. The UNI will remain in the EMPTY mode as long as Pressure Switch remains active. 

The UNI is mainly built in SMD (surface-mounted device) which allows allocation of main active components to be located protectively on the back side of the unit. Connections for the 3rd micro switch (in charge of the TA function) as well as the Pressure Switch are easily accessible on the top side of the UNI. For reliable connections between these pins and the Piston Tank use JST connector (coplete with silicone wire) item no. 9128.

Technical Specifications:

Operational nominal voltage 6-12V

Dimensions L 44 x W 42 x H 21 mm

Weight approx. 36 g

This set includes:

1 Ballast Tank Switch UNI

3 Plastic spacers 5 mm

3 Screws (stainless steel) 2.9 x 9.5 mm

1 Manual with wiring diagram in English

Low-Battery-Monitor pre-adjusted to approx. 9V for 12V operation.