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Ferrets are known for being small, resourceful, and incredibly clever. They can solve many problems by fitting into tight spaces and doing jobs us humans cannot do. In the world of electronics, our tiny FERRET receiver module is no different, enabling smart wireless switching in almost any electrical installation. Which is why we're thrilled to share via Electricians Forum our new DIN rail version!
Like the animal, the FERRET is tiny in size (W:37mm x H:25mm x L:96mm), easily fitting into tight crawlspaces and most electrical enclosures. It has a single relay changeover contact rated at 1kW (5A@230Vac), enabling installers the ability to add remote control switching to installations such as lighting, fans, or motors, without incorporating large or expensive relays. We initially designed the FERRET in 2021 as a smart switching solution for a variety of installations. However as of March 2024, our smart little FERRET just got even more smart.
The module now comes in two versions:
The standard version, now with two screw fixing holes. These allow the installer to easily fix the module in place onto surfaces or in junction boxes (a WISKA for example). Perfect for electrical installers who like to keep their wiring neat and tidy. Each fixing hole is on a snappable part of the PCB, meaning the Installer can also break either hole off to save even more space if needed.
The new industrial FERRET version has the same basic functionality as the standard FERRET – it’s a 1 circuit relay module, enabling wireless switching of its connected output. However, it’s also a DIN rail receiver, enabling industrial electricians and engineers to clip the module onto a DIN rail inside more industrious enclosures.
Both versions are supplied with a wire antenna, but now also have a UFL antenna connection that enables the installer to choose and connect a more suitable antenna for their specific application.
When fitting any of our DIN rail switching modules, like our 725 series or our SLIMDIN receiver, it is very common to mount these modules inside DIN rail industrial enclosures, then fit an external antenna on the outside of the overall enclosure. This enables the receiver to better pick up transmission signals and activate its intended relay outputs. The below list of antennas are suitable for this kind of installation modification with the FERRET DIN receiver:
Please note: you would require a CBA-UFLSMA to connect a separate antenna with the FERRET DIN. If you need additional information on antennas, please see our RF Antennas Guide article.
In the last few years, the world of electronics has also seen the revolution of screwless terminals replacing standard screw terminals. Both FERRET modules follow that trend, saving installers up to 50% more time when wiring up their installation. You can easily wire up either FERRET version in no time without having to use screw terminals.
Different electrical installations require different options, which is why as standard, the FERRET is supplied by an extra low voltage of 6-16Vdc. However, using an RF Solutions MOJO power transformer, it can also switch 230Vac MAINS installations. To find out more about the MOJO transformer, click here.
The receiver has a maximum of 30 pairings and can be operated from any of the RF Solutions 868MHz controls, from up to 1 kilometre away. These variable features give installers total flexibility when installing their wireless switching applications. Ideal transmitters to use with the FERRET and FERRET DIN are:
The purpose of smart solutions should always be to simplify electrical installations. The new FERRET standard and industrial versions add a simple wireless switching relay to a variety of electrical devices, from outdoor lights to industrial machinery, using any of the RF Solutions smart radio switches to operate the relay output.
For additional information on the FERRET Receiver Modules, contact our technical support team on [email protected] or on 01444 227909.
