Flashing Sign Systems Quickstart Guide

Flashing Sign Systems Quickstart Guide


System Overview

TraffiCalm Flashing Sign systems are available in multiple configurations to suit diverse project requirements. Typically, systems include a Flash Controller (also known as a solar engine), a Sign Ring, and an input device such as a push button or radar sensor.

However, system complexity can vary significantly based on specific input and output needs. For example, a Pedestrian Crossing System might comprise:

  1. A Modem-Equipped Flash Controller
  2. A Flash Collaborator
  3. Two Push Buttons
  4. Two Flashing LED Signs
  5. Four Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs)
  6. Two Crosswalk Illuminators

Quick Setup Guide

Basic Models (BSC Series)

If your model is a BASIC (BSC) such as M75-SA300-BSC also refered to as the Plug & , you have two setup options: 24/7 flashing or radar activation.

  1. Flash 24/7

    • Leave the jumpers on INPUT 1 and 2.
    • Power on the system, and it will flash continuously.

  2. Radar Activated System

    • Remove the jumpers from INPUT 1 and 2.
    • Wire in the radar sensor and ensure it is connected before plugging in the power connector.
    • As the unit boots up, it will recognize the radar and activate accordingly.

Advanced Models

For all other models, you need to connect to the system's WiFi and complete the setup process. Note that the Controller’s WiFi remains active for 2 hours, so setup must be completed within this window; otherwise, you'll need to reboot the Controller.

  1. Connect to WiFi

    • Open a WiFi-capable device (phone, tablet, or laptop) and navigate to WiFi settings.
    • Connect to the network, which may be named TraffiCalm, push2cross, chevron, All Flash, or include its 6-digit Colab ID.
    • Use the password: Tr@ffiCalm.
    • Ensure you remain connected to the WiFi.

  2. Access Setup Interface

    • Open an internet browser (Edge, Chrome, Safari, Firefox, etc.).
    • In the URL bar, type setup.trafficalm.com (not case sensitive).
    • If the system has never been set up before, you will see a page to download manuals. Continue past this page.
    • You will then have the option to configure the system as needed for Push2Cross, Chevron, High Water, Conflict Intersection, or All Flash.
      • All Flash is the general flash system for school zone flashers or stop rings.

For more detailed instructions, troubleshooting guides, setup videos, or to learn more about the systems, explore our knowledge base.


What's in the box?

Note
Your shipment will have come with many parts and pieces, depending on the complexity of the order and your project. Preceding installation day, it is highly recommended that you orient yourself with the various parts and pieces that will be utilized. 

All "Solar Engine" models (Basics, Controllers, and Collaborators) include:

All "Fiberglass Box" models (AC or Solar Controllers, and Collaborators) include

NOTE
For all "E" Box assemblies (M75-TCR00-CTLE, for example) a separate solar panel is required to power the system. 

All LED Sign Rings include

All Radar Detectors you will have received:

All RRFB assemblies include



All LED Chevron signs include:


Info
Push buttons, beacons, and other peripheral devices may be supplied, please refer to included documentation for specific details.

System Orientation

As previously stated, our Flashing Sign System has a broad list of applications that it can be adapted to. However, there are some basic principles in play within every system as follows:
  1. Power must be connected by either AC input or a Solar Panel and Battery Supply. Most systems integrate the power into the flash controlling device
  2. We sell three flash controllers - "Basic" (BSC), "Controllers" (CTL), and "Collaborators" (CLB)
    1. The Basic units appear the same as their Controller and Collaborator counterparts, however they have reduced functionality
    2. Controllers and Collaborators appear the same as each other, but they perform unique, specific tasks
    3. The Controllers and Collaborators add wireless radio communication for device 2 device syncing, as well as full configuration capabilities and advance input modes that the Basic Systems do not require.
  3. Other acceossry  components will include LED sign rings, RRFBs, Push Buttons, radar detectors, and many other peripherals. All of these will often ship in individual packages as part of the shipment, and identified by their respective part numbers. 

Building A System

Typical Pedestrian Safety System (aka Push 2 Cross) Build

NOTES
This simple example system provides warning to drivers from both approaches and activation from either side of the crossing.
System expansions include warning on both the front and back of the post, audible ASA push buttons, and additional posts for leading signage or refuge island signage.

Typical Curve Warning System - Single Direction of Warning Build

NOTES
This simple example system provides detection-activated warning to drivers approaching from the top of the image.
System expansions include LED curve ahead signs, warning both approaches (back to back signs), radar detection at both approaches, and up to 16 posts through a large curve.


Basic System - Stop, Rail Crossing, Warning Signs, etc.

NOTE
This system, while typically applied to Stop Signs, can also be used to increase awareness to a wide variety of signs such as rail crossing, stop ahead, and yield signs. Powered by our Basic Solar Engine, this system features plug and play installation with radar as a possible option.


Device Intro

The images below detail the most typically accessed parts and pieces of any given device. 

For Solar Engine models (M75-TCR00-CTL2, M75-SA300-BSC2, M75-SA300-CTL3, M75-SA300=CLB2, etc.) notable features include...

For "E Box" models (M75-TCR00-CTLE, M75-SA300-CTLE, M75-SA300=CLBE, etc.) notable features include...


For other components please refer to the articles below for further details
Push Buttons (not yet released)
Radar Detector (not yet released)
Ice Detector (not yet released)
Water Presence Detector (not yet released)
Sign Rings (not yet released)
RRFB (rectangular rapid flashing beacons) (not yet released)
Flasher Beacons (not yet released)
Chevron Plates (not yet released)

Mounting Provisions

Every component we sell is specifically designed to be mounted to most any industry-common roadway infrastructure. This includes round post of any size, drilled square post, wooden post, pedestal poles, street lights, even flat walls. However, some creativity and additional hardware may be required to accomplish your specific installation. The images below serve as a starting point for installation planning.

FAQ
Q: My Controller cannot find Collaborators during the pairing setup
A: There are a bevy of reasons why this may be. But, typically - check power to the system, check that the devices your trying to add are Collaborators (M75-SA300-CLBx), and check that antennas are all installed

Q: Do you offer Apple compatible software?
A: Yes! Our flashing sign system is configured by any wi-fi equipped device. This includes tablets, phones, and PCs of virtually any make.

Q: But, I don't have cell signal/wi-fi/internet at the installation?
A: That's just fine. Our system generates a local wi-fi network for your device to connect to, and all the configuration interface (ie. software) is hosted on the device itself.

Q: Can I configure and access my system remotely?
A: TraffiCalm TC-Remote accomplishes just that. After initial installation and on-site configuration, the system can be called up on our TC-Remote website from virtually any computer in the world.

Q: I cannot find my Controller's Wi-Fi to set it up
A: The built in Wi-Fi network shuts off after 2 hours, a power reset is required to renew connectivity. The system does require 12.4VDC for the Wi-Fi to boot up, check power and fuses.  Additionally, a wi-fi reset fob can be supplied for wireless resetting of the system.

Q: Is all this security really necessary?
A: While the pay-off is relatively low, connected devices like these can be exploited by even novice criminals. The minimal security required for the systems provides a fool-proof method to protect the system and your road users.

Q: What are my passwords?
A: See the Software setup guide: (4) TraffiCalm Support (zoho.com)



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