REFCON System

Notifies the user of alarms generated by reefer containers
Monitors alarm and temperature conditions including USDA cargo probes and special atmosphere readings
Supports controller specific alarms and readings with all reefer manufacturers’ equipment such as Thermo King, Klinge/Sabroe, Carrier, Daikin, Mitsubishi and Starcool
Shows the status of reefer containers in an intuitive graphical container plan
Registers the history of each container and stores the data in a detailed log file
Allows operator to send commands such as “defrost” and “change of set point” remotely
Interfaces with a ship’s loading computer or a terminal planning system to transfer reefer container data and location automatically
Interfaces with the Global Monitoring Server for centralized remote monitoring and system performance surveillance
Forwards alarms by E-mail using a priority configuration
Integrates a hand-held Remote Data Collector (RDC) for monitoring and documenting non-communicating reefer containers
Integrates with hand-held LogMan for datalog retrieval, firmware upload and settings of reefer container controllers
Displays reefer controllers’ software versions to ensure containers are kept up tp date
Enables the operator to access REFCON from multiple workstations
Features an easy to use on-line manual

The REFCON system enables an operator to automatically monitor and control thousands of reefer containers through a single computer system.

This makes REFCON the ideal solution wherever complete monitoring of reefer containers is required – whether on board a vessel or in a container terminal.

Power Cable Transmission (PCT)

Today, most reefer containers are controlled by a microprocessor that sends and receives information via a modem installed inside the container. The REFCON PCT system enables the modem to use the existing power cables of the vessel or terminal, thus avoiding any additional data cable for monitoring and control. The modem communicates with the master modem installed in, or next to, the distribution board. Communication can take place using either the High Data Rate (Wide Band) or the Low Data Rate (Narrow Band) protocol. The master modem then transmits the data from the power line to the computer monitoring system. This means that the REFCON PCT provides a unique two-way data highway between the operator and every single reefer container linked to the system.

4-pole flexibility

Conventional 4-pole monitoring systems require four separate wires running from each container to a central monitoring position. To eliminate the need for extensive wiring when linking such units to REFCON Four Pole Modules (FMMs) located close to the 4-pole monitored containers process the digital signals these containers send. From the FMM onward, the data are handled according to the same principles used in the REFCON PCT system.

Remote Data Collector (RDC)

Using a handheld device called the RDC, it is possible to view data for any reefer container, without a modem, on a REFCON system. Simply download the desired reefer containers to the RDC, and use the list to examine the relevant condition data, thus avoiding pen and paper for manual inspection. The RDC comes with a docking station, which automatically transfers all new data into REFCON. Furthermore, it is possible to use the RDC to retrieve container logs for all container brands. (LOGMAN functionality)

Global Monitoring Server

The Global Monitoring Server makes it possible for shipping lines to establish automated, centralized remote monitoring of all reefer containers, covering their entire journey from producer to final destination. The container data is sent via the Internet, SMS or SAT to a centralized Web server. This Web server, accessed by means of a password, can provide historical data on container conditions, including temperature trend curves – whenever and wherever desired.