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New Low Cost Web Controller That Punches Above Its Weight

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Mitsubishi Electric has launched a new air conditioning web-based controller to replace the “Baby” GB-50 and offer users high level control and energy monitoring functionality. The controller is aimed at the more cost and environmentally conscious end users in these times of austerity and energy conservation.

The new GB50ADA is the latest web-based group controller from Mitsubishi Electric and offers much of the functionality previously only available in the more advanced touch screen AG150A controller, but at a significantly lower price.

The new controller is compatible with the full range of Mitsubishi Electric Air conditioning products such as City Multi, Mr Slim and M Series product ranges. It also supports the latest Windows 7 operating system and can control up to 50 indoor units or groups.

“There are occasions where buildings do not require the full scope of advanced controls provided by the AG150A, and there are also applications where not having a touch screen interface on the controller provides a good level of security against unauthorised use, and this new model recognises both of these applications,” explains Philip Ord, Product Marketing Manager for Mitsubishi Electric’s range of air conditioning products.

With easy connection to the Internet and full group control, the energy use of the outdoor units can be controlled efficiently and the energy usage monitored. Support for third-party pulse meters also allows other building services to be monitored in real time.

Advanced annual scheduling allows for two different seasonal settings (summer and winter) and both fan speed and air direction can also be set.

The new GB50ADA web controller comes with additional functions including optimised start – which enables the system to reach setpoint temperature in a faster and more responsive way – refrigerant gas volume status check, USB memory backup and restore, outdoor ambient temperature interlocking, night setback (night-time low energy mode) and interlock control which can be used for interlocking related third party equipment with the air conditioning system.

“Building owners are looking for ways to control costs and this new model brings together a number of useful facilities that let people monitor trends and identify where savings can be made,” adds Ord. “The Internet is now part of everyday life and it allows us to offer our customers advanced energy monitoring so that they can be sure that their system is always optimised for performance and energy use.”

The new intelligent GB50ADA controller learns how long it takes to reach a set temperature, so it is no longer necessary to switch on the air conditioning two hours before it is needed. Automatic setpoint adjustment also takes into account seasonal effects so that the indoor temperature works in line with actual outdoor temperatures to provide greater levels of comfort.

Advanced night set back allows the temperature for each indoor unit to be as low as 12°C, with the relevant unit restarting if the temperature drops below this preset level. The controller also has an in-built refrigerant status check which can be activated to check the City Multi outdoor units.

“We have listened carefully to our customers and are continuously striving to bring them low cost but advanced controllers that increase information and control,” says Ord. “This new unit will allow more organisations to get a grip on their energy use in a more advanced way than before.”

For further information on the GB50ADA and the complete range of advanced air conditioning controls, visit www.mitsubishielectric.co.uk/aircon.

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