The DNA of the InPower family tree of switching products is consistent from the humble and ever-versatile VCM to complex systems that can run entire vehicles. The little VCM is a single programmable switch, running by itself.
What if you integrated several switches into a single module?
AND let them talk to each other?
You get our Vehicle Control Module System (VCMS), a module that takes all the flexibility of our VCM and scales it up to meet newer and more complicated challenges.
At its core, the base VCMS-PM1 power module combines six 15-amp outputs, four programmable inputs, and a data connector that allows you to connect the PM1 to other power modules or our various programmable switch panels. Every switching function you can do with a VCM can also be assigned to one of the outputs of the PM1, with the added capability of making that switch’s operation conditional on what the other switches are doing, what the inputs are listening for, or what button your operator might be pushing. We even make a special module with built-in voltage sensing capabilities.
The core VCMS modules are also designed for easy installation with the same ¼” blade terminals that everyone already has a set of crimpers for and an easy-to-run ribbon cable to connect multiple modules.
Our switch panels further expand VCMS control and flexibility. You can set up something as easy as a 1:1 match between the switches and the power outputs of the PM1, or you can set up conditional controls, master/slave panel configurations, overrides, and more. The legends on the switch panels are replaceable too, so you can set them for what you need.
These are just a few of the applications we have seen for our VCMS:
- Turn multiple light banks on and off from a variety of locations without complicated 3-way switch wiring.
- Set multiple loads to different switches using one switch panel on the rear work body and giving the driver a “Master-Off” button in the cab.
- Use momentary-switch controls to run outriggers in or out to exactly where the operator wants them.
- Program flashing outputs to blink lights or flash in sequences.
- Operate snow plows and fog lamps for winter upfits.
- Provide 3-mode switching (Off, On-Low, On-High) for fans.
The VCMS is easy to program too, using our “Conversational Basic” language, so you can learn to set up systems yourself. We can also work with you to define your needs and program everything at InPower so it arrives at your shop ready to install and run.
Need even more flexibility and durability? Check out our VCMS2 family of modules and their close cousins, the Reflex modules.
