How Important It Is to Own a Control Box for Linear Actuators?

If you buy an actuator system, you might be wondering what control equipment you shall purchase. One of the most efficient options is a control box. What does it give though? And why a simple remote control cannot replace it in specific cases? Let us check in details.

A control box is a link between your actuator or an actuator system and the controls. Control boxes are used to adjust the function of an actuator system. Usually, control boxes are easy-to-install and use.
Every manufacturer will offer you several control box models and designs. For example here, you can choose an option for any of your projects.

Now, let us have a look at the most commonly purchased models.

A Wireless Control Box for Two Units

For now, this is one of the most basic options in the market. It comes as a plug-and-play version, like the majority of control boxes nowadays. Specifically, this control box allows you to control two actuators with a single remote control. The actuators will move synchronically, though some offset value will be present.

Such simpler control boxes are perfect if you don’t have a lot of space for control devices. Also, consider, that full synchronization might not be achieved in such a case. Thus, you might consider such a control box only if a full synchronization is not needed.

A Dual Channel Control Box for Speed Synchronization

This control box is a perfect option for cases when the movement speed shall be synchronized. It can be used for two or even one actuator. This item is also supplied with all the accessories to mount:
- A wiring harness;
- A connector adaptor;
- A fob remote (wireless).

A Wireless Dual Channel Individual Control Box

As you can guess from the name, this box is made to control two channels, each one – individually. Thus, you might want to opt for this control box if you need to control each of your two actuators separately. Basically, with this control box, you can control two different actuator systems. It saves space and still has the flexibility of two control boxes.

A Synchronized Dual Control Box with a Potentiometer

This control box is perfect for projects where you need a fully synchronized actuator movement. The control box receives feedback from a potentiometer actuator. It allows it to calibrate the speed of both actuators and make them move absolutely synchronized.
This control box is necessary if you, for example, use actuators to move the same object. In such a case, if the movement of the items isn’t synchronized, the actuator motors can burn at all.

A Hall Effect Control Box for Two Actuators

This box can be used only with those actuators that are equipped with hall effect sensors. It can synchronize actuators perfectly, so, the application fields are unlimited. The control box comes as a plug-and-play item, so, you can install and use it immediately after having purchased it.

Final Thoughts

There are many control box designs. They might vary greatly from one manufacturer to another. Here, we have checked just the most common ones, those that can be used in almost any project. When choosing a control box for your next project, consider all the project`s specifics, and check whether the control box functionality is suitable.