- What is the Zipset System?
- Why should I use the Zipset System?
- How do I install the Zipset System hardware?
- What does wireless remote damper control mean?
- How do I use the RCM?
- What is the "Set M/P" (Mid Point) mode on the RCM all about?
- What is the purpose of the "Set M/P"(Mid Point) mode?
- What type of actuator is used with the Zipset System?
- What happens to the Remote Control Module (RCM) after the job is finished?
- Are there any trade conflicts with using the Zipset System?
- Can the damper be set to control the air flow to a prescribed quantity?
- What maximum size balancing damper will the Zipset actuator operate?
- Will the Zipset System increase or decrease noise?
- Explain the design of the Ceiling Receptacle Bracket (CR) and Cover Plate.
- What is the maximum signal cable length that can be used to operate the actuator?
- Does the Zipset require an access door?
- What labor savings are realized when using the Zipset compared to other devices?
- How accurately does the Zipset System control the damper?
- What is the expected life of the RCM battery pack?
- What holds the damper in position after the balancing task is finished?
- Describe the Multi Input Panel (MIP) and its purpose?
- What are my options if the RCM fails to operate properly?
- What happens to the power/signal cable from the actuator after connecting to the Ceiling Receptacle if it is too long?
- Didn't find the answer to your question? Please let us help by going to the Contact Us page where you can email, phone, or fax our office for help.
1. What is the Zipset System?
The Zipset System (ZS) is the flagship product of The Zip Group (ZG) and is ultimate answer for adjusting isolated air balancing dampers from a remote location. The ZS does away with the familiar twist or push–pull cable gadgets in favor of a "one size fits all" electro–mechanical and software solution. Using patent pending technology, the Zipset System provides a quick, precise and economical, method for adjusting critical balancing dampers in inaccessible ductwork.
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2. Why should I use the Zipset System ?
The ZS eliminates the need for access doors as well as custom–fitted and often cantankerous twist or sliding cable hardware, regulators, worm gears, universal joints, straight square and round steel rods, conduit, handy boxes, or any mechanical gadgets previously associated with adjusting inaccessible balancing dampers.
The Zipset System has been carefully designed to address several issues:
1. The foolproof design saves significant man hours because it installs quickly, usually in no more than five minutes, greatly reducing labor expense and estimating guesswork.
2. Because the branch balancing dampers can be located up to 150 feet upstream from the room outlets, air movement noise problems are greatly reduced.
3. The no-nonsense design keeps reliability up and hardware costs to a minimum.
4. Efficient and precise flow measuring and adjustment during the balancing phase will insure that the system will operate as designed for maximum comfort and energy conservation.
5. A simple test from the controller had to be included to verity the integrity of the installation (does it actually work) prior to being covered up by the ceiling panels.
6. With the Zipset System the end-user occupant or building manager can quickly and accurately reset the air flow to various zones and air outlets as the building tenant requirements and load conditions change....a task that's seldom been done in the real world.
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3. How do I install the Zipset System hardware?
Attach the actuator to the damper shaft and ductwork and the ceiling receptacle to the ceiling T–bar grid. That's it. The entire installation can usually be done in less than fifteen minutes by anyone with an 1/8" hex wrench, a cordless drill and 4 self drilling s/m screws. A simple set of instructions is available at www.zipset.net, However, the ZS design is so intuitively obvious, almost anyone can install the ZSA-1 damper actuator and the Ceiling Receptacle Bracket (CR) without any written instructions.
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4. What does wireless remote damper control mean?
With the RF Key Fob transmitter, the damper adjustments can be done without cables, wires or other physical connections between the balancing technician and the damper. The obvious advantage is that in most instances, one technician can make downstream air flow measurements while simultaneously adjusting the damper with the RF Key Fob transmitter.
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5. How do I use the Remote Control Module (RCM) ?
There are only four operational commands on the RCM, including the Power on/off button. When connected to the ceiling receptacle and energized, the RCM provides power to operate the actuator and wirelessly control its CW and CCW rotation using the two channel Key Fob transmitter. The instant start–stop feature allows infinite positioning of the damper blades. The software and electronics will also prevent over–torque damage to the actuator or damper whenever the internal blade stops (full open or closed) are reached. Visit the website at www.zipset.net. Click on "The Slide Show" tab for complete details of its operation and features.
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6. What does the "Set M/P" mode on the Remote Control Module do?
Activating the "Set M/P" mode will cause the RCM software to seek the rotational mid point of the damper blades total travel between its physical endstops.
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7. What is the purpose of the "Set M/P" mode ?
The "Set M/P" mode provides two advantages not available to the balancing technician prior to the Zipset System.
- During the initial system startup of the building primary supply fan(s) it may be helpful to know that the various branch duct balancing dampers are in some partially open position, (approximately 50% open) to avoid over pressurization of the primary duct work.
- During the actual balancing of the individual branches and zones, it may be advantageous
to have the damper blades preset to some known position prior to beginning the air flow adjustments.
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8. What type of actuator is used with the Zipset System ?
The model ZSA-1 actuator was designed from scratch for use with the Zipset System's hardware and software. It easily accepts damper shaft sizes from 1/4" to 1/2" in square, round or hex profiles and self–adjusts for external duct wrap insulation up to 2 inches. The actuator operates on 12 volts battery power and will reliably operate free moving dampers up to 12 square feet at a face velocity of 2000 FPM. The Zip Group also has available conventional straight, conical and 45 deg taps and inline dampers, with factory–preinstalled actuators for use on ceiling supply diffusers, including plenum and linear slot diffusers.
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9. What happens to the Remote Control Module (RCM) after the job is finished?
Dispensing of the RCM will likely be specification dependent. A logical scenario is that at least one RCM will be turned over to the building facilities owner/manager for their future use. Since the RCM is very ruggedly built and protected by an industrial grade rubber boot, when in its protective carrying pouch, it will be at home in almost any tool box. It's also likely that an RCM will become a permanent part of the mechanical and/or balancing contractor's tool kit since there is the capability for testing the damper installation prior to the ceiling panels being installed.
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10. Are there any trade conflicts with using the Zipset System?
Not likely. The simplicity with which the actuator and ceiling receptacle mount, and the single low voltage signal cable connection that is not tied to building power should negate any conflicts.
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11. Can the damper be set to control the air flow to a prescribed quantity?
Only if system operating parameters remain static. Balancing dampers by definition maintain a set position. The ZSA-1 internal gear train design auto–locks the balancing damper in its final position when power to the actuator is removed. It cannot correct for changes in duct pressures.
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12. What maximum size balancing damper will the Zipset actuator operate?
The ZSA-1 will operate up to 16 Sq. Ft. of total area at two inches wg, at a maximum 2000 FPM flow rate. Of course, as with any actuator, the damper and its internal linkage must be proven to move freely prior to installing.
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13. Will the Zipset System increase or decrease noise?
Because the Zipset System allows the inaccessible balancing dampers to be placed almost anywhere upstream in the branch duct, it potentially reduces air noise at the room outlets. The cable operated gadgets used for remote damper control are very limiting since they require the damper to be placed within a few feet of the neck of the air devices.
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14. Explain the design of the Ceiling Receptacle Bracket (CR) and Cover Plate.
The Ceiling Receptacle (CR) is the sole interface between the pre installed damper actuator and the occupied room side of the ceiling. It is designed to easily mount to the side of any industry–standard T-Bar support grid using only two self–drilling sheet metal screws. The CR is truly muli–tasking because (1) it provides support for the RCM during the balancing phase, (2) it has a built-in cable take up spool for the extra length cable to keep it from drooping below the ceiling, (3) it provides the power and signal connector to the actuator and (4) provides the means for supporting the ceiling cover plate when the balancing task is finished. Of particular note is that the CR patent-pending design eliminates any need for extra framing, handy box or miscellaneous hardware for support. At the completion of the balancing phase, the support "finger" is removed and the cover plate simply screws up snug to the ceiling surface. The cover plate self–adjusts to ceiling panel thicknesses up to 2 inches. Special cover plate materials and longer screw lengths are available for special projects such as in security ceilings. Complete details for the CR and Cover Plate are available on the website.
It should be noted that the CR is also available in a version that attaches to LAY-IN T–bar grid, Model CR-T. Why you ask? It's a given that most balancing dampers are inaccessible because of the ceiling construction being non-removable, such as when using gyp board.
However, in some cases, the inaccessibility may be due to other mechanical or electrical systems above the ceiling that are "covering up" the duct and damper to the extent that reaching it for adjustment is not possible. If this situation is foreseen, then the Zipset System actuator and the CR-T may be installed to provide an easy damper adjustment. Of course these receptacles would be completely hidden when the lay-in panels are in place so a simple marker at the T– bar location, or a passive RFID tag is attached to the CR frame and a hand held reader is used to locate and identify it for use.
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15. What is the maximum signal cable length that can be used to operate the actuator?
The "out of the box" cable that is factory–wired to the actuator is eight feet which will meet most installation requirements. However, this length can be easily extended with available 10, 20, 30, and 50 foot cable sections, up to 150 feet. Standard RCA connectors on each end of the cables allow quick extensions without the use of any tools. The cables furnished by The ZG are plenum-rated to UL94-5VA, which is a code requirement in most cities. However, ss a bonus, in those instances where a plenum–rated cable is not required, audio cables with RCA connectors (same as those used to hook up your stereo components) available from any wholesale or retail electronics and video store can be used. Cable extensions are explained in more detail in the website slide show.
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16. Does the Zipset require an access door?
No. In fact it ELIMINATES them. This is the feature that will endear the ZipsetSystem to Architects and other interior design professionals.
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17. What labor savings are realized when using the Zipset compared to other devices?
First, the Mechanical and/or Sheet Metal contractor can more closely estimate the installation time, which is realistically five minutes or less for the ZSA-1 actuator and the same for the ceiling receptacle. With most mechanical cable systems, with the measure–and–cut cable requirement, you can never be sure if it would average thirty minutes or three hours to install each mechanism. On a project having 20 or maybe 100 damper locations, this can be a significant "guesstimate".
Second, due to the ingenious simplicity of the ZS design, the contractor's installing personnel have minimal installation issues since there is no such thing as a "custom" installation. One size fits all. The only variable is the length of the power/signal cable and that is added without the use of any tools. And even if you guess the cable length wrong, you just wind the excess onto the built–in take up spool.
Third, when straight, square rod, universal joints, slide or twist cable mechanisms are used to operate branch balancing dampers, there's always some field assembly required, usually at BOTH the damper and ceiling ends of the device. There'll very likely be measuring and field cutting the square rod or the slide/twist wire cable (which is often provided in "raw" lengths such as 25, 50 and 100 foot coils). Then there's the handy box or bracket or "cup" at the ceiling, usually requiring some sort of support frame, which adds the issue of who is responsible for furnishing the framing (mechanical or ceiling contractor).
Fourth, there is always the "Oops Factor" element of improper assembly or maybe too long a length or too sharp a bend radius will keep the mechanism from operating properly.
The final benefactor of the wireless–controlled ZipsetSystem is the balancing contractor. Until the ZS, there was rarely any instance where a single balancing technician could make down stream air flow readings while simultaneously adjusting the damper. In addition, such previously unavailable features as the "Set M/P" (Mid Point) command, which allows setting the branch balancing dampers to some known open position prior to initial fan start up, can speed up the balancing procedure with less manpower.
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18. How accurately does the Zipset System control the damper?
The blade position is infinitely variable in CW or CCW rotation with the key fob buttons and is completely managed by the balancing technician. As the technician is observing air flow readings downstream from the balancing damper, the two button, two channel, Key Fob allows instant start & stop in both CW and CCW rotations. Each Key Fob transmitter has a discrete code (1, 2, or 3) that only its "mate" Remote Control Module will respond to. This is to avoids conflicts and erratic behavior when two or more balancing tasks are simultaneously conducted in the same area. This feature is explained in the "Additional Details" Slideshow tab.
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19. What is the expected life of the RCM battery pack ?
The RCM uses the latest lithium–ion battery technology with a high energy density and long shelf life. Conservatively, total runtime should allow at least 50 complete dampers adjustment events on one battery pack. The battery pack is NOT rechargealbe. In addition, to conserve battery life the software in the RCM will shut it down completely if it doesn't sense any activity for a period of 40 minutes. Simply pressing the PWR button will reactivate the RCM. The battery pack can be ordered from your rep or the Zipset website. Replacement is a simple matter requiring only a small #1 phillips screwdriver and can be done in just a few minutes. Instructions are on the website.
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20. What holds the damper in position after the balancing task is finished?
The gear train design of the ZSA-1 actuator insures that the output shaft cannot move when power is removed from the drive motor. Whatever position the damper blades assumed when the power is disconnected by the balancing technician will be its locked position. Readjusting the balancing damper at a future date is just a matter of reenergizing the actuator with the RCM. The output shaft rotational position can be "tweaked" using the manual adjustment feature on the housing which can be operated with a screwdriver
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21. Describe the Multi Input Panel (MIP) and its purpose?
In some applications, rather than discrete Ceiling Receptacles in the ceiling near each balancing damper, it may be advantageous to have the power and signal cables from several damper locations merge at a single control panel. The panel allows adjustment of individual dampers either locally, or remotely using the RCM with the Key Fob. The Multi Input Panel is ideally located in a utility or equipment room. This setup works especially well in projects such as residential, and condominiums, high security areas, or high–end retail shops, or anywhere there is elaborate hard ceiling construction where not even the small round cover of the ceiling receptacle is allowed. With local control always available at the MIP, the owner occupant can reset each connected zone as conditions warrant. Each ZipsetSystem Multi Input Panel is designed to accommodate up to ten actuators. The Multi Input Panel is described in detail on the website.
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22. What are my options if the RCM fails to operate properly?
First check the battery pack is functioning. If the red LED power light does not come on, or is blinking, (indicating low battery power) the battery pack may be near exhaustion. Lithium batteries have an almost flat discharge curve, unlike the more common alkalines, (which lose their power gradually). This means Lithiums maintain near full strength throughout their useful life then cease to work rather suddenly. Battery replacement is a simple task so refer to the website for a clear set of instructions. If erratic control with the Key Fob is the problem, its internal battery (which has a shelf life of about three years) may need changing. Another possible problem with erratic or no control is that each RCM and Key Fob is shipped with one of three standard codes and corresponding color to reduce conflicts when more than one balancing task is being done in the same area of a project. Verify that your RCM and Key Fob have a matching number of "dots" (1-black, 2-yellow, or 3-red) on the outside of their cases and that a matching RCM is not being used in the same area. This feature is clearly explained on the website under the "Additional Details" Slideshow tab.
There are no adjustments or repairs that can be done in the field. In the event the RCM fails to properly operate for reasons other than abuse or neglect, it can be returned to the factory during the twelve month warranty period for evaluation and repair or replacement.
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23. What happens to the power/signal cable from the actuator after connecting to the Ceiling Receptacle if it is too long?
Any extra length of the cable between the actuator and the ceiling receptacle is taken up on the built–in "spool" on the top of the CR. This keeps an undesirable cable "droop" from forming below the ceiling panel plane. A detailed description of the installation of the CR is on the website.
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24. Is there a "Guide Specification" that would be helpful in describing the ZS for use in a project specification?
Yes. The last slide in The Slide Show tab has a series of "boiler plate" phrases that can be mixed and matched to fit the needs of the specifying designer.
25. Didn't find the answer to your question? Please let us help by going to the Contact Us page where you can email, phone, or fax our office for help.
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Suggested Specification
Click here Suggested Specification
for the complete description in pdf format. |
