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Dispatchers have trouble adapting their workstations to their needs. The software and the furniture used in command centers and the IT equipment lack flexibility in terms of accessibility to adapt to the dispatcher’s needs. Dispatchers must be able to adapt their environment to them, software and hardware. Dispatchers have trouble adapting their workstations to their needs. We asked dispatchers what were the accessibility features (or lack thereof) which most impacted them at work. The solutions implemented in command centers do not take into account the full range of body sizes when designing products or environments, this includes software and hardware. By not providing proper customization capabilities dispatchers have to work around the constraints of their tools, which negatively impacts their focus and therefore their productivity. The software and the furniture used in command centers and the IT equipment lack flexibility in terms of accessibility to adapt to the dispatcher’s needs. When dispatchers lack the capacity to customize their workstations they can suffer from fatigue, stress, burnout, and even work-related injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome. These problems are typical in centers that use not only old equipment that needs to be updated to keep up with the demands of the job, but it is also present in centers with poorly designed tools and equipment, that lack flexibility to adapt. For example, a dispatcher working with a CAD system that becomes unusable whenever they change the display resolutions is not a flexible tool. Another example is when the icons and colors used in critical software cannot be changed to accommodate people who are color blind. A third example is furniture that was designed taking into account people with short height while neglecting the body shape and size of really tall users. This results in control consoles that work fine for some people but are impractical and outright uncomfortable for the rest of the staff. Dispatchers must be able to adapt their environment to them, software and hardware. In an ideal world, control consoles should be pretty ergonomic. Each one could be adjusted in terms of height, with separate work surfaces for monitors, speakers, and keyboards as well as mice, so everyone can set things up to their comfort. When it comes to software each console operator should have their own user on the console so any settings they might have will be saved and allow other staff members to quickly get comfortable at the workstation at the start of their shift. Dispatchers with control consoles that adapt to their needs are bound to suffer less stress and be more productive at work because they don’t have to worry about adjusting their tools every day. With easy to use, customization options like mouse sensitivity, icon colors, display resolutions, light filters, height adjustability, dual worksurfaces, storage options for personal belongings, and even a personal environmental system, supervisors can be at ease knowing their team is comfortable and that morale is high. Also, the IT department can rest assured that by having easy-to-understand customization options, operators will not accidentally cause the system to crash whenever they need to change the display resolution. When designing a control console, remember that body size can vary widely, and using averages alone is not sufficient. It doesn’t matter if your center has 22 consoles or just 5. Imagine for a second that you’ve got a dispatcher who’s 6 foot 2 tall, but all the consoles in the room were designed for a person who’s 5 feet tall, and the software was designed for someone who has perfect 20/20 vision. Instead of using averages alone, it is necessary to deal with ranges of sizes. Percentiles are a way of expressing these ranges, indicating the percentage of people within a population who have a certain body dimension. For example, the 5th percentile female height means that 95% of the female population is taller, and only 5% of the population is the same height or shorter. This allows designers to take into account the full range of body sizes when designing products or environments. How can agencies create a comfortable working environment? Agencies should work much harder to accommodate the vast variety of people that they are trying to hire. The control center should provide dispatchers to perform their jobs in a productive, healthy, and sustainable way. The workstations should be designed to adapt to the user’s needs and not the other way around, this includes the specialized furniture like the control consoles, but also the software with its accessibility features. Are you remodeling your 911 control center? We can help. Our more than 25 years of experience in this field allows us to help 911 centers with their modernization plans. We look forward to future opportunities to help organizations in the public safety industry achieve their goals. Every week, we provide invaluable insights into our case studies and the innovative solutions we have developed for organizations to achieve their goals and objectives in mission-critical environments. Don't miss out on the opportunity to optimize your workspace and elevate your operations, by setting a new standard. Follow us on LinkedIn today.

About the client: An international advisory firm Brockhouse & Cooper International Inc. is a large advisory firm based in Montreal, Quebec. The company provides portfolio management for investment companies, pension consulting services, and a selection of other advisers. A few years ago we first designed and manufactured their trading floor for their new headquarters in Montreal's IBM building. This article is a retrospective of that project featuring our now classic consoles. About the project: a professional trading room in downtown Montreal Brockhouse Cooper wanted to equip the trading room of its new headquarters in Montreal IBM building with a new system of consoles. To fit the largest possible number of consoles into a relatively compact space, the project consisted of installing more than 26 workstations in a back-to-back linear configuration. The product had to meet the specific requirements of the managers responsible for the brokerage rooms as well as fit into a highly computerized environment. It also had to possess the flexibility and resilience needed in view of the intensive use it would be subjected to in a brokerage firm. Last but not least, it had to provide employees with a functional and ergonomic product that would meet the criteria of modernity, comfort, and esthetics in their work environment. The solution: Elegant trading desks Brockhouse Cooper selected the highly efficient FOCUS modular console system from the Sustêma 200 series, to achieve its objective. With its highly contemporary look, the FOCUS system offered all the features Brockhouse Cooper managers were seeking: Elegance, sturdiness, and versatility. Slender strips of tempered glass were installed vertically on the basic structure to create an upscale look. The work surfaces were made to measure and laid out according to client requirements. The product also allowed the installation of storage accessories for office supplies and equipment. The Focus system offers all the functionality necessary for equipment support and the management of electrical supply in highly computerized environments. Ingeniously organized, the two cabling systems are physically separated and easily accessed for repairs and network modifications. To allow full-time access to the computer system via portable computer, an outlet combining electrical supply and network (USB) plugs is installed in the center of each station. The product structure stands on 12 centimetre-high supports, giving the consoles a fresh look. This distinctive approach also ensures excellent protection of the electronic components and facilitates floor maintenance. The computer bases pivot below the work surface and allow quick access to the equipment’s network of cables. The work surfaces have a load capacity of more than 150 kilograms. To ensure good shock resistance, they are equipped with PVC edge bands 2.5 millimeters thick. The screens and complementary system accessories are easily attached to highly resistant extruded aluminum panels. Does your trading floor need an upgrade? We can help. Our more than 25 years of experience in this field allowed us to deliver precisely what Brockhouse Cooper needed to move forward with its modernization plans. We're proud of the work we've done at Montreal's IBM building and look forward to future opportunities to help organizations in the convention center industry achieve their goals. Every week, we provide invaluable insights into our case studies and the innovative solutions we have developed for organizations to achieve their goals and objectives in mission-critical environments. Don't miss out on the opportunity to optimize your workspace and elevate your operations, by setting a new standard. Follow us on LinkedIn today.

About our client: Quebec City's Police Department The Quebec City Police Department is the second-largest municipal police force in the province, and it serves a population of more than 500,000 inhabitants. A few years ago we first designed and manufactured their 911 Call Center. This article is a retrospective of that project featuring our now classic consoles. About the project: Designing a state-of-the-art 911 Call center The reorganization of the Quebec City police station has allowed the complete relocation of all activities of its 911 call center. The project’s goal was to design and install 27 consoles, equipped with screens and computers, for dispatchers, supervisors and call answering staff. The mandate included the creation of specialized furniture and technical accessories. The project objective was to design modern, state-of-the-art, ergonomic work consoles to ensure optimal workspaces for the emergency department. The consoles had to be modular in order to allow reconfiguration of the space, as well as complying with required ergonomic standards. We completed the entire project in only 12 weeks, including preliminary studies, definition of project direction, equipment transfer, installation, and activation. The work surfaces and keyboards had to mechanically adjust themselves with the help of electric actuators. Some workstations had to host a specialized “Zetron“ console for radio communication and allow the possible storage of a third keyboard for system verification. The solution: Heavy-duty control consoles with electrical height adjustability Three original solutions, each of which includes one or two pairs of actuators, are offered to allow adjustment of the heights of the work surface and keyboard. Depending on taste, the computer‘s exterior casing can be attached below the work surface or to the system’s fixed system. In addition glass or acoustic panels can be added to the structure to enhance the privacy of the user. This functional structure can also carry cabling from one workstation to another. The mobile upper part of the console is connected to the base via articulated arms that support the computer and data cables, ensuring safe vertical movement. The LCD monitors may be permanently installed directly on the work surface, or fixed to a grooved extruded aluminum panel that allows lateral motion. The TRANSIT linear consoles were developed by Sustêma specifically for 911 call centers. The product design is distinguished by the geometry of the work surfaces, the innovative electrical adjustment system, and the success of its aesthetics. This console series has numerous technical advantages related to the accessibility and storage of computers, management of cabling, and installation of LCD monitors. Are you remodeling your 911 control center? We can help. Our more than 25 years of experience in this field allowed us to deliver precisely what the Quebec City Police Department needed to move forward with its modernization plans. We're proud of the work we've done at Quebec City and look forward to future opportunities to help organizations in the public safety industry achieve their goals. Every week, we provide invaluable insights into our case studies and the innovative solutions we have developed for organizations to achieve their goals and objectives in mission-critical environments. Don't miss out on the opportunity to optimize your workspace and elevate your operations, by setting a new standard. Follow us on LinkedIn today.

About our client, an internationally recognized police organization. A police organization that employs more than 1,600 sworn officers and 600 civilians which is an internationally recognized policing leader. Their members serve one of the most diverse and fastest-growing communities in Canada, patrolling areas ranging from serene rural landscapes to urban cityscapes and ensuring the safety and security of residents who identify with more than 200 ethnic origins, practice more than 10 different religions and speak more than 16 unique languages. About the project: Modernizing a 911 backup communications center Our client’s Backup Communications Centre needed updated consoles to meet the additional headcount and increasing technological demands. As such, the purpose of this new Communications Centre was to receive 911 calls from public phone networks and Police radio networks, this facility would also dispatch response services by radio to handle the emergency. The goal for this renovation was to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of future police service capability when and if a backup centre is required. Much of the center was to be a call taking and dispatch area. The placement was twofold; to accommodate as many available stations as possible, and to encourage communication between call takers. The console setup was required to muffle sound where possible and provide each user with a personalized console that could change height, adjust temperature, and lighting to suit the individual user. The Solution: Custom 911 Dispatch Control Consoles We designed specific configurations to suit these different user preferences and roles within the Dispatch Centre. Our client needed different types of consoles for each role in the room, which in total are 3, one for the supervisors, another type for the dispatchers, and a different one for the call-takers. Call taker control console: Dispatcher control console: Supervisor control console: All consoles have dual work surfaces, with plenty of space for peripherals and tools, and both surfaces are height adjustable. The worksurface features grommet holes and a monument system to access power and data, as well as urethane edging to prevent user fatigue. The monitor surface supports the heavy duty monitor post. To provide privacy the console features a wall system fitted with electrical raceways that are designed to help separate the cables by voltage. The wall system also features a slat wall, suited to mount more accessories like task lights, as well as some dividing panels on top of the wall system. The console is supported by a strong steel substructure, featuring cable paths and CPU enclosures with sliding trays. The cables connecting the CPU to the monitors run through a pair of cable chains to protect them while in motion. We designed the consoles to have more room for cables than specified, to assure easy access when needed and neat, clean looking. Additional space (thicker) in the wall has been designed to accommodate the quantity of cables needed. Filing cabinets: To complement the supervisor console we designed a filing cabinet with 3 drawers, 2 with a drawer box height of 4 inches, and a third one with a box height of 10 inches. All of them with a box depth of 24 inches. Leaving a 4 inches space where the users can run cables to the grommet holes on the top surface. The Result: A reliable, durable and efficient 911 backup communications center A total of two Supervisors consoles, eight Dispatcher consoles, 20 Call takers consoles, 4 furniture filing cabinets, and 30 24/7 Grade 2 Fabric Task Chairs. Our client chose our consoles for their 911 Communications Center because they met all of their technical requirements and selection criteria, which included quality, durability, efficiency, and functionality. Today, this regional police organization boasts a state-of-the-art 911 dispatch control center that runs non-stop, thanks to our Transit and Focus console systems. Our consoles offer numerous ergonomic features that help reduce stress and fatigue for operators, such as the ability to adjust the height of each worksurface and the urethane edging that allows for comfortable use during long work hours. Not only have these features improved dispatcher health and well-being, but they have also increased workflow and productivity. Overall, our Transit and Focus console systems have exceeded our client’s expectations and has contributed significantly to the successful modernization of their 911 communications center. Are you renovating your 911 communications center? We can help. To achieve an organized, and secured 911 communications center, our furniture integrated advanced cable management solutions such as electrical raceways in the wall structure and enclosed CPU enclosures. As well as incorporating dual worksurfaces with height adjustability, our control consoles are designed to fit and adapt to our client's needs and specific requirements and not the other way around. Take the next step towards a secure and efficient 911 control room by partnering with us. Contact our team of specialists and industrial designers to work together on empowering your organization toward a safe and productive future that puts you in control and ahead of the competition. To stay up to date with our latest case studies and developments, be sure to follow our social media.

While we are still in the middle of the winter, most center directors and supervisors are planning for the future. But, while the challenges in control rooms are all too familiar, where do you start? Your center may have outdated and inefficient control consoles that hamper productivity, lead to missed opportunities, and increase frustration among the staff. However, it can be difficult to identify every problem and issue that needs fixing, without going completely over budget. This is why we recommend you start planning for 2024 right now. That way, you can get valuable feedback from key stakeholders in your organization, and most importantly, you won’t be missing out on the ergonomic features that will have a positive impact on your center. At Sustema, we're here to guide you through the process, offering expert assistance with designs, budgeting, and every detail needed to evaluate what's working and what's not in your control room. In this article we will discuss the reasons why you should upgrade your center, and what are the common issues control rooms are facing. Common reasons to upgrade a control center We get it. The decision to upgrade your control center isn't just about staying up to date with the latest trends in control console design; it's about making your workspace work better for you, your team, and your mission. That means that as you plan your budget for the next year, every element needs to add up to the proper allocation of resources available to your organization, including financial, human, and material resources. Here are some reasons why 911 centers, utilities, and other mission-critical environments should be upgraded: Organize and Enhance Ergonomics: Is your workspace feeling cramped and chaotic with an endless pile of notes, and pens, and those 2 already empty cups of coffee just sitting on your station because you simply don’t have enough space? An upgrade can declutter your worksurface area, optimize your room layout, and make everything more ergonomic for the user. After all, a clutter-free, comfortable workspace can significantly improve the daily experience and reduce operator burnout. Modernization Matters: Perhaps your current installations and furniture have seen better days. Maybe the furniture is not suitable for the current needs of your team. Or, it might just be that the consoles aren’t flexible enough for the changes you are looking to implement. This is when a makeover allows you to remodel and modernize your setup with durable, high-tech furniture that not only looks great but also performs exceptionally well. NG911 Integration: Keeping up with the latest technology is crucial for any control room. By modernizing your center, you can fully integrate NG911 hardware, implement better cable management solutions, ensure easy access to IT equipment, and keep your critical systems secure, reducing downtime and enhancing your center's reliability. Atmosphere and Morale: Your workspace design and room layout directly impact your team's morale and efficiency. Tangible factors like electrical wiring, ventilation, and data sources are obviously important when planning your control room layout. On the other hand, intangible elements such as noise, lighting, colors in the room, the grouping of people, and the overall feel and atmosphere of the room are often overlooked during this process. An improved room atmosphere and working environment can work wonders to boost morale, streamline operations, and create a more pleasant and productive workplace that attracts and retains new talent. So, whether it's about decluttering, modernizing, staying technologically advanced, or simply creating a better work atmosphere, upgrading your control center is about making it work better for you and your team. Elements that are hurting your control center right now: An aging control room plagued by several issues hampers operations and staff well-being, making a renovation of the center essential. Below we discuss how each issue adds up to the detriment of a control room and its impacts on the operators who work there. Difficulty in Hiring: Between 2019 and 2022, one in four jobs at public safety communications centers were vacant, according to a recent report from the National Association of State 911 Administrators and the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch. Finding and retaining skilled staff can be made easier when the center itself looks and feels like a place that has a clear direction, good leadership, and resources to support its employees in what is already a stressful job. Suboptimal Working Conditions: When new employees find themselves in a workplace that is constantly ramping up stress levels with poor design choices, bad ventilation which causes poor air quality, deficient heating which impedes concentration, and insufficient lighting that causes physical discomfort, new recruits will not think twice to find greener pastures elsewhere. Ergonomic problems in the design of the furniture: Consoles that do not adapt to the operator’s needs and requirements are a detriment to the productivity of the organization as a whole. A console that is used by different people throughout the day will require the staff to adapt to it, instead of the other way around. Different people of different heights will have to adopt uncomfortable postures that will result in fatigue and injuries. Consoles without height-adjustable worksurfaces, adaptable lighting, personal environmental systems, flexible monitor arrays, and even rounded edges on the worksurface, all can contribute to work-related injuries. Outdated Consoles: Old consoles may no longer meet the needs of your operators, or perhaps they never did. This will impact their performance and can lead to burnout, which fuels the staffing crisis many organizations in mission-critical environments are facing nowadays. Cleanliness Concerns: Dirty consoles create a working environment that lowers morale. If it is not easy to clean the furniture without disturbing the operators, it can lead to a continuous decline in the overall hygiene of the control room, exacerbating the existing challenges and affecting staff productivity. Cable Management Woes: Poor cable management can result in prolonged downtime. Older consoles that were designed to look pretty, instead of being functional increase the overall time and effort that it takes to make minor adjustments and daily maintenance of critical IT equipment at the consoles. After all, the information passing through those cables is critical data, like a bus's location, an airplane’s status, the current pressure on the electrical grid of your city, or someone’s 911 call. Noise Disturbances: Noise is one of those intangible factors that are often overlooked during the design process. But in a workplace that is famous for always having something going on, the lack of acoustic panels can make your workspace noisier than it already is and hinder the operator’s concentration. Excessive noise levels will contribute to the stress of the job, which will also contribute to the burnout cycle. Inflexible Layout: A non-reconfigurable control center layout may not adapt to your organization's evolving needs. For example, during the process of PSAP consolidation (a process that is already complicated on its own), accommodating more people and more equipment can pose difficulties. However, rigidity can hinder the seamless integration of new resources, disrupt operational efficiency, and impede the successful execution of PSAP consolidation efforts. Storage and Accessibility Problems: Insufficient storage and inconvenient device placement can lead to the staff being uncomfortable, as well as create a chaotic and cluttered workspace. When operators lack separate spaces for their personal effects and their professional tools, these will often become mixed, making it challenging to locate necessary items quickly, leading to frustration and delays in completing tasks, ultimately affecting the overall productivity and morale of the center. Therefore, addressing storage and accessibility issues is crucial for creating a well-organized, safe, and efficient control room. At Sustema, we offer comprehensive solutions for upgrading your control room. Our services encompass technical drawings, in-depth needs analysis, budget planning, and more. We specialize in designing and manufacturing specialized furniture tailored to your specific needs, addressing the very issues that are holding your control center back. We're here to help you create a control room that not only overcomes these challenges but also enhances your team's efficiency, comfort, and morale.

Capturing the Excitement: Highlights from the 2023 APCO Conference! And just like that, August bids us farewell along with the exhilarating 2023 APCO conference that took place in Nashville, Tennessee from August 6th to 9th. What a ride it has been! Did you know that this year's conference broke the record for attendance with a turnout of over 5,000 attendees, surpassing a decade-old record? Well, now you do. This gathering wasn't just about numbers; it was about creating genuine connections with decision-makers in the industry and meeting the remarkable people who always answer the call, and are the first, first responders. The halls were alive with the energy of lively discussions, as professionals and enthusiasts delved into the heart of what drives our industry forward. We took 2 consoles to the conference, to showcase our expertise in design, but also so that people could see with their own eyes that our consoles don't only look aesthetically pleasing, but they are also built to last. Below, you can see our consoles. The first one is a linear console with a slat wall to help create a clutter-free workspace, and the second console is in a cockpit configuration. Both of them with superb cable management and height-adjustable capabilities. But it wasn't just about new acquaintances; we also had a chance to meet with familiar faces. Our existing clients stopped by our booth and we had a chance to catch up in the middle of all the excitement. They were pretty happy to be receiving their upcoming orders soon. It's moments like these that fuel our passion and remind us why we do what we do. Which is to help organizations in improving functionality, design, and technology in critical environments. We also got the chance to catch up with our colleagues throughout the industry. We also stopped by our friends' booth from Matrox, which featured one of our control consoles integrating their cutting-edge technology for mission controls. A note on Labour Day. Now that the summer is ending, and the school year is beginning, we glide into September and in observance of Labour Day celebrations, we'll be closed on Monday, September 4th, giving our hardworking team a chance to recharge. We'll be back to full throttle on Tuesday, ready to embrace the opportunities the new month brings. And, to start planning for 2024. In the meantime, we're working diligently to compile the visual story of our time at the APCO conference. The images captured tell tales of inspiration, camaraderie, and a shared vision for a thriving future. Stay tuned to our channels as we unveil these snapshots that encapsulate the essence of the event.

“Working with Sustema has been a great experience. From the start of the project to the end, I was kept informed on the status of my order. You and your team were very thorough with the design and support. As a dealer this type of work is not only appreciated but highly valued as a Vendor we prefer to work with.” About the client, a convention center with more than 1 million yearly visitors. Nestled in the heart of Atlanta, Georgia, stands an iconic symbol of innovation and grandeur in the world of conventions – The Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC). With an impressive expanse encompassing over 3.9 million square feet of exquisite exhibition space, this illustrious venue annually welcomes a myriad of distinguished visitors, surpassing the one-million mark. Notably, the GWCC proudly boasts the esteemed title of being the globe's largest LEED-certified convention center, while also securing its position as the fourth-largest of its kind within the United States. The Project: The modernization of a dispatch control center for a convention center. The GWCC needed to renovate its control room with state-of-the-art control consoles for event management and security monitoring. For this project, they required 3 consoles, 2 were meant for dispatchers, and a third one was meant for the supervising operator. Each console needed to house specialized IT equipment and multiple CPUs while maintaining easy access for maintenance that wouldn’t interrupt daily operations. Beyond functionality, the consoles were also required to fulfill ergonomic needs, offering operators the ability to adjust the height of their workstations to ensure comfort during long and demanding shifts, effectively alleviating strain and fatigue. Also, having a clutter-free work surface was a key requirement of the client. The two consoles meant for the operators, needed to support six central monitors, as shown below, and they were also required to be shaped in a cockpit configuration. The third dispatch control console which was dedicated to the supervisor, required dual monitor positions at opposite ends of the work surface, to easily glance over the other 2 operators. The solution: Custom dispatch control consoles to modernize the control center in a convention center. After carefully considering all of their needs and preferences, our client chose our Transit S console as the ideal solution for their new control center. Designed with durability, ergonomics, and versatility in mind, the Transit S console met all of the GWCC’s requirements and exceeded their expectations, ensuring a seamless and efficient operation of the convention center. The dual worksurface provides a clutter-free workspace with easy access to power and data thanks to the monument system. The cable chains and the steel substructure provide an elegant cable management solution for the IT equipment stored in the CPU enclosures which connect to the monitors mounted on the sturdy monitor arms. The result: A modern control room with heavy-duty control consoles for a modern control center Presently, the GWCC stands adorned with an avant-garde dispatch control center that operates seamlessly, propelled by the durability of our Transit console system. The new center encompasses quality, durability, efficiency, and functionality, through the implementation of our Transit consoles. The Transit consoles boast an array of ergonomic features designed to alleviate stress and fatigue for operators. The height-adjustable workstations and an extensive worksurface not only elevate operator well-being but also significantly amplify their workflow and productivity. In its entirety, the Transit console system has not only met but decidedly exceeded the GWCC's expectations, emerging as an instrumental asset in the center's triumphant modernization endeavor. Are you remodeling your control room? We can help. Our more than 25 years of experience in this field allowed us to deliver precisely what The Georgia World Congress Center needed to move forward with its modernization plans. We're proud of the work we've done with the GWCC and look forward to future opportunities to help organizations in the convention center industry achieve their goals. Every week, we provide invaluable insights into our case studies and the innovative solutions we have developed for organizations to achieve their goals and objectives in mission-critical environments. Don't miss out on the opportunity to optimize your workspace and elevate your operations, by setting a new standard. Follow us on LinkedIn today.

When working with height-adjustable consoles, Linak actuators have more than 90 error codes that can show up on the digital display of your desk panel. This height adjustment troubleshooting guide will help you to spot and fix issues with Linak actuators. The first steps in fixing the problem are to go over the standard troubleshooting procedures. To that end, you must keep in mind all the components of a height-adjustable control console, as described below. Desk leg (DL) – The lifting columns, typically with powder-coated steel profiles, are responsible for lifting the working load of the application. Control box (CBD6S) – Both the computer and power supply of the system. Desk panel (DP) – The user interface. Depending on the model, it is used to activate the application, set memory positions, display the height, display error codes, connect to mobile apps, and give reminders to the user. Motor cable – Transmits low voltage power (18-39 VDC) from the control box to the desk legs, and also transmits PIEZO signals when available from the desk leg. Mains cable – Transmits high voltage power (120 VAC in US and Canada) to the control box. Standard troubleshooting procedures for Linak actuators in height-adjustable control consoles P1 – Initialize the control box (“reset”) STEP 1. Hold the Down button on the desk panel to ensure the desk is retracted to its lower limit (whether it’s the fully retracted hard stop, or a configured lower limit). STEP 2. Briefly release Down. STEP 3. Press and hold Down for 5 seconds, wait until all desk movement has stopped, then release. If initialization is successful, you should see a slight up/down “handshake” movement of the desk legs. If you have a desk panel with a display, you should also see E01 during this part of the procedure. P2 – Check all cable connections STEP 1. Mains cable, connected to both the control box and power outlet. STEP 2. All motor cables are connected to both the control box and the desk leg. Assuming a standard control box configuration, these must be connected in channels 1 and 2, or channels 1, 2, and 3 for a 3-leg table. They can’t be connected in channels 1 and 3 or 2 and 3 unless there is a configuration on the control box specifying this arrangement. STEP 3. Desk panel cable, connected to the control box in either port A1 or A2 (doesn’t matter which). P3 – Check for obstructions STEP 1. Check under, above, and on the sides of the desk for any obstructions that could prevent movement in either direction. The next two procedures (P4 and P5) are for a two-leg desk system. The same concepts can be used for a three-leg system using Channel 3 and so forth. P4 – Check for faulty component(s) WITH error codes (digital display on Desk Panel, or on app via Bluetooth) P5 – Check for faulty components WITHOUT error codes (no digital display on Desk Panel, no Bluetooth) What is the Control Box Thinking? There are many clever procedures, checks, and measurements performed in the control box. Here is a brief description of what the control box is trying to accomplish while it is activating an application: • Safe activation of the application - Parallel, even movement of all desk legs in the application is critical. The control box does not directly know the position of each desk leg. Instead, the position of each leg is constantly calculated via Hall pulses from each motor. The legs on a single reference are not allowed to be more than +/- 5 Hall pulses out of sync. For a standard DL, this amounts to +/- 0.55 mm. Motor cable disconnections are also detected as errors. - If PIEZO technology is present in the desk leg, the control box monitors for PIEZO “collision” signals from each channel. When a PIEZO signal is sensed, movement is immediately stopped and, if there is room, the system is run in the opposite direction a small distance. - Anytime the control sees an incomplete signal, or more than one signal (multiple keys pressed, multiple desk panels activated at the same time), an error is determined and no movement is allowed at that moment. This is to prevent an action or movement that is not intended by the user. • Protection from equipment damage - Internal temperature of the control box is monitored. - Maximum current draw for each motor channel, as well as the system as a whole, is measured. When the current exceeds an allowable limit, an error is presented. Error codes in Linak actuators and how to fix them How to initialize your height-adjustable control console If you want to elevate your control room with specialized furniture, contact us and our team of specialists and industrial designers will help you create a workspace that adapts to your needs and specific requirements.

Here is a list of common problems with control consoles These are some common problems that can be easily taken care of by control console operators. Our consoles are comprised of multiple components, and it is important to not neglect any aspect of their proper maintenance and operation. Verify the components that present common problems with control consoles: Height adjustable worksurfaces Monitors & monitor arms Keypad control Steel panels Monument system Cable management chains Heavy duty actuators CPU storage cabinet Personal storage cabinet Rackmount system If the control console is out of level. Make sure to use the leveling glides underneath the consoles to ensure the worksurface is properly leveled. If height adjustment in the control console doesn’t work. Check connections to the command box, located below the work surface. Unplug and plug back every connection. If the actuators are still not functioning properly, perform a reset by following these instructions. To fix cable management on control consoles. Make sure all cables are long enough to run the entire console by opening the CPU drawers and setting the surfaces at their maximum height. Otherwise, cables will break and damage the equipment. Make sure all cables run along the substructure of the console and pass through the dedicated grommet hole. This will help you to keep a clutter-free workspace and minimize the risk of accidents. For more details on cable management read this article. To minimize the risk of accidents and damage to the control consoles. Always place your tools and equipment on top of the work surface, never under the worksurface or on the CPU storing cabinets. Otherwise, you risk damaging the consoles and the equipment. Make sure all objects on the worksurface are stable or fixed to the console, this will minimize the risks of damaging the equipment and of injuries caused by falling objects. To clean the control console. When cleaning the work surface, the steel panels, and any metal pieces with non-abrasive cleaning products or with soapy water. For instructions on disinfecting our products consult this article. Use the monument system to connect and charge electronic devices that are not fixed to the console. When not in use, push the monument down until you hear a click. Press again to open. Make sure to separate data and power cables by running each type of cable through the dedicated electrical railways. The steel panel located at the back of the console can be lifted to access the electrical raceways. The image below shows power running through the orange raceway and data cables running through the green one. For further support, submit a service request with the following form.

Join us at the Sustema booth for an unforgettable experience at APCO 2023 Nashville, TN! We are thrilled to invite you to the highly anticipated Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) 2023, International's Annual Conference & Expo, in Nashville, Tennessee, from August 6th to 9th, 2023. We assure you that this event will leave you inspired and empowered to make impactful decisions for your emergency center. Stop by booth 600 and be sure to register for the draw of a captivating mystery prize, set to be revealed during the APCO 2023 Nashville, TN International Annual Conference & Expo. At Sustema, we believe in the power of first-hand experiences. That's why we will be showcasing one of our remarkable consoles at the booth, allowing you to immerse yourself in our unwavering commitment to quality, ergonomic design, and superior craftsmanship. Our consoles are meticulously crafted to meet the demands of Public Safety Answering Points, and emergency response centers, and we can't wait for you to witness their exceptional functionality and aesthetic appeal. Our esteemed account managers, Derek, Louis, and Mark are eagerly looking forward to connecting with you. They are well-versed in the unique challenges faced by decision-makers like yourself and are passionate about finding tailored solutions to address your specific needs. Prepare for engaging conversations that will undoubtedly spark innovative ideas and opportunities for collaboration. To stay updated on all the latest developments, follow Sustema on social media. Not only will this allow you to learn about the lucky prize winner, but it will also keep the conversation flowing beyond the conference, fostering a strong and enduring partnership. But that's not all! The APCO 2023 Nashville, TN, conference & expo promises to be an event like no other. It offers an unparalleled platform to gain practical, real-world knowledge that you can implement immediately within your organization. With captivating keynote speakers, over one hundred hours of informative breakout sessions, career-building courses and workshops, networking events to foster valuable connections, and an Expo Hall showcasing cutting-edge products and services, APCO 2023 is undeniably the year's most important event in our industry. Here are five compelling reasons why you simply cannot afford to miss #APCO2023: Education: Attendees can earn up to 20 CEUs from 10 professional development tracks with more than 120 individual sessions focused on frontline telecommunicators, leadership development, comm center management, cutting-edge issues, technology, and more. Networking: Four special events (extra fees may apply) with engaging speakers provide an opportunity to learn, laugh and participate in industry-building activities with other public safety communications attendees and exhibitors. Exhibits: More than 200 vendors, representing a wide range of public safety communications products and services, launch new products, provide equipment to test drive, and meet with attendees to discuss purchases or problems. Involvement: Attendees can attend ECC tours, career advancement sessions, and healthy living seminars, as well as donate blood to a local blood bank. All attendees are invited to the general business sessions, and qualified APCO members can vote and attend committee meetings. Fun: Attendees can meet and mingle at the APCO Block Party or tour the city with special discounts on Nashville attractions. We look forward to meeting you at the Sustema booth #600 at the APCO 2023 Nashville, TN conference & expo, where we will explore the endless possibilities for collaboration and success. Let us help elevate your emergency center to new heights. Chat with us now to get a free quote.

The best task lights can brighten your workspace, for easier reading and writing in the control room which in the long run is taxing on your eyes. Task lights usually don't take up much, or any, additional space on your desk since they are designed to integrate into the existing infrastructure of the control console, and they follow rigorous ergonomic guidelines to increase productivity and comfort of the user. This is especially important if you're working in a mission-critical environment and sometimes using more than one external monitor, keyboard, and mouse, as well as other professional tools, that as an operator you have to juggle through. As part of our mission to help organizations in improving functionality, design, and technology in critical environments we've researched to find the best task lights for your control consoles. Light up your control console and stay focused on the task at hand with these task lights. These task lights are designed for 24/7 operations and therefore are manufactured using durable materials, they also offer good lighting thanks to extremely high lumen output, and most importantly they can be adjusted both in position and in intensity, to illuminate as much as the operator requires. The Attenzia light, designed by Novus. The "Attenzia" lamp designed by Novus stands out as one of the best task lights available for control consoles due to its impressive range of features and innovative design. It offers individual solutions to ensure every workstation is perfectly lit, thereby significantly improving overall performance and productivity. Its versatility enables users to adjust the light according to their specific needs and preferences, offering maximum flexibility in illuminating their workspace. The Attenzia lamp adopts uniform lighting concepts in accordance with HCL (Human Centric Lighting) in workplace design. The even distribution of light helps reduce eye strain and fatigue, enabling users to focus on their tasks with enhanced efficiency. The lamp's integration of smart technology further enhances its appeal. The Bluetooth function allows for seamless wireless operation, while the ability to control the light via a dedicated app adds convenience and customization options for individual preferences. One of the most distinctive features of the Attenzia lamp is its rotatable light panels, allowing for both direct and indirect lighting. Additionally, the Attenzia lamp is designed with energy efficiency in mind. Its LED lighting system boasts an impressive service life of over 50,000 hours, reducing the need for frequent replacements and minimizing energy consumption. The presence and light sensors further contribute to energy savings by ensuring the light is only active when needed. Notably, the lamp's minimalistic and award-winning design adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to any office environment. With its sleek aesthetics, the Attenzia lamp seamlessly integrates into various IT-intensive environments, complementing modern interior designs while elevating the overall ambiance. In summary, the Novus Attenzia lamp excels in providing top-notch lighting solutions for control consoles, combining the benefits of HCL, smart technology, rotatable light panels, and energy efficiency. Its design and functionality are sure to upgrade any office space, making it a worthy investment for those seeking to enhance productivity and create an optimal work environment. The Mosso Pro desk lamp, designed by Koncept. The Mosso Pro desk lamp, designed by Koncept, is a true game-changer in the world of lighting solutions. Delivering an astounding 99 lumens per watt, this lamp offers a wide range of light colors, from warm to cool and everything in between. The intuitive built-in touch strip allows for effortless continuous dimming, putting you in full control of your lighting preferences. Designed with both energy-saving and convenience in mind, Mosso Pro features a built-in occupancy sensor that ensures no energy is wasted by lighting up a vacant workstation. When combined with its highly adjustable arms and lamp head, you have the freedom to direct the light precisely at any angle you desire, providing unparalleled flexibility and illumination customization. Not only does Mosso Pro excel in its versatility and functionality, but it also boasts outstanding efficiency with its ultra-high efficacy of 99 lumens per watt. With 48 LEDs and a consumption of only 5.5 watts, this desk lamp provides long-lasting, top-tier performance with a rated lifespan of over 60,000 hours (L90 rating). With the simple touch of the lens, you can effortlessly change the light color to suit your mood and task requirements. From cool white light for focused work to warm, cozy tones for relaxation, Mosso Pro adapts seamlessly to your needs. The integration of an integrated occupancy sensor ensures that the lamp turns itself off after 15 minutes of inactivity, promoting energy efficiency and reducing unnecessary power consumption. When you return, the lamp automatically resumes your previous settings, ensuring a seamless user experience. Alternatively, its toggle switch lets you disable the occupancy sensor when needed, giving you full control over its functionality. But that's not all – Mosso Pro goes above and beyond by incorporating a standard USB port in its base, allowing you to charge smartphones and other compatible devices conveniently while you work. For even more advanced functionality, you have the option to equip Mosso Pro with a Wireless Charging Base (sold separately) to charge your Qi-compatible devices wirelessly. Available in sleek Metallic Black, Silver, and White finishes, Mosso Pro adds a touch of contemporary elegance to any workspace. With its 10-foot cord, you have the freedom to place the lamp conveniently wherever you desire. In summary, the Mosso Pro Desk Lamp by Koncept sets new standards for efficiency and functionality, making it an essential addition to any workspace. Experience unmatched lighting control, outstanding energy efficiency, and the convenience of device charging, all packed into one brilliantly designed desk lamp. The infinity LED task light, designed by Humanscale Design Studio. The infinity LED task light, crafted by the renowned Humanscale Design Studio, exemplifies the perfect synergy of performance and aesthetics. Its unique 'Forever Hinges,' a remarkable fusion of torque inserts and springs, ensure a balanced and effortless arm movement, allowing users to easily adjust the light to their personalized ergonomic preference. Designed with a minimalist vision, the infinity light conceals cables from view, running them internally through the precision-machined arm, maintaining a clean and uncluttered appearance. Its light's adaptability is second to none, featuring an impressive 35" arm reach and full 180-degree arm and head rotation. With effortless one-touch positioning, users can effortlessly place the light at their desired angle. Furthermore, the light is available in customizable color finishes, seamlessly integrating into any design aesthetic or work environment. At the core of the Infinity task light lies its powerful and energy-efficient large-array, multi-chip LED, providing an industry-leading 1500 lux illumination. This not only ensures superior lighting output but also casts just a single shadow on the desk surface, minimizing distractions and enhancing focus during work. When it comes to energy efficiency, the Infinity light stands out with the highest efficiency LED chip on the market, consuming just 8 watts while delivering best-in-class lighting performance. To reduce visual clutter and enhance user experience, the advanced user interface of the Infinity light incorporates illuminated indicator lights. These indicators appear when the user reaches for the light and fade away after selecting their preferred brightness level out of nine available options. The 'Forever Hinges' mechanism allows the Infinity task light to maintain fluid movement and effortless positioning, setting it apart from other task lights in the industry. Its unmatched adaptability ensures users can easily adjust the light to accommodate any work scenario. In addition to its impressive performance, the Infinity task light demonstrates its commitment to sustainability and durability. Constructed from polished aluminum and highly recycled and recyclable materials, it embodies the Humanscale philosophy of doing more with less. The use of polyethylene (PE) film on the head and base instead of paint further reduces environmental impact. With a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours, the Infinity Light never needs adjustment and comes with an industry-leading 10-year warranty, assuring its lasting quality and reliability. With an array of thoughtful features and technical specifications, and various configuration options (desktop base, clamp, wall mount, slatwall mount, or floor stand), the Infinity LED Task Light by Humanscale truly sets a new standard for timeless design and unparalleled lighting performance. Elevate your workspace with this elegantly enduring and globally appealing task light for an exceptional lighting experience like never before. What should you look for in a task light? When selecting the perfect task light for your workspace, consider key features and capabilities found in the Attenzia, Mosso Pro, and Infinity LED lights. Look for innovative designs that offer uniform lighting concepts with HCL for enhanced productivity and well-being. Prioritize versatility with adjustable arms and lamp heads, allowing you to customize the lighting angle to your ergonomic preference. Seek energy efficiency with LED lighting, and maybe something that implements smart technologies like Bluetooth operation and integrated sensors for seamless control and reduced energy consumption. Choose equipment that complements the aesthetic of your center. Finally, prioritize sustainability with durable materials and long-lasting LED chips. By choosing a task light that combines these essential features, you can elevate your workstation to the next level of efficiency, functionality, and style. Are you renovating your control center? Contact our team of specialists and industrial designers to create a workspace that adapts to your needs and special requirements.

In the fast-paced world of mission-critical environments, where split-second decisions and unwavering focus are paramount, the design of ergonomic furniture at individual control consoles plays a pivotal role in the overall efficiency and well-being of operators. One fundamental truth stands out: there is no universal "best" posture for sustained periods of work in these high-stress settings. In the same way as there is no best control room layout. Rather than seeking a one-size-fits-all approach when designing a control room, the focus should be on creating a control console that is flexible enough within the workplace that allows operators to adapt to various healthy postures seamlessly and concentrate on the different tasks they must complete throughout the day. How to design a user-centered control room? Unlike traditional workplaces like offices, a control room falls under the umbrella of an open-floor plan, due to its high-collaborative nature. Each type of workplace layout has its strengths and weaknesses, but the open-floor layout comes with a particular set of challenges that can have a negative impact on the staff's well-being and ultimately in their productivity. For example, open-plan workspaces offer flexibility in changing organizational needs and facilitate cooperation between co-workers but tend to suffer from environmental annoyances such as noise and sub-optimum climatic conditions as well as a lack of privacy. As the dispatchers reading this can confirm. Amidst these challenges, we recognize the critical importance of enhancing the working conditions at the individual level when designing a control console. It is our goal to empower console operators with a workspace that not only meets their specific needs but also maximizes their efficiency and well-being in mission-critical environments. To achieve this, we are sharing with you a list of recommendations on components that are often overlooked in the design process of a control room. Supervisors and planners can implement these recommendations to optimize working conditions, enhance personalized ergonomic solutions, prioritize health and comfort, and effectively organize their control room. Ensuring their contributions in mission-critical settings are nothing short of exceptional. Recommendations to reduce noise in the control room: To minimize noise levels, consider using sound-absorbing materials on all major surfaces wherever possible. Noise is often more of a problem than expected... Try using acoustic panels mounted on the work-surface, or directly on the slat-wall of the control console. To be effective, the barriers have to be at least 1.5m high and 2.5m wide. Equip the workstations with technological devices of low noise (printers, photocopy machines, telephones, etc.). For example, provide telephones that flash a light for the first two “rings” before emitting an auditory signal. Ensure that their operation remains unintrusive and doesn't disturb operators during critical tasks. Recommendations to incorporate flexibility and personal expression in the workspace: Leave some elements of design for the workstation user. People need to have control over their environments; leave some opportunities for changing or rearranging things. This simple action will help operators feel empowered at their workstation. Provide both vertical and horizontal surfaces for the display of personal belongings and professional tools. People like to personalize their workstations to help them stay motivated throughout the day. Recommendations to improve privacy in the control room and other mission critical environments: Provide several easily accessible islands of privacy. This would include small rooms with full walls and doors that can be used for conferences and private or long-distance telephone calls. Provide all private work areas with a way to signal willingness of the occupant to be disturbed. Recommendations to improve the ambience and atmosphere of the control room: Have clearly marked flow paths for visitors and staff. For example, hang signs from the ceiling showing where the administrative staff and where department boundaries are located. A free space should be provided around the furniture for passages between the workstations as well as for unobstructed sitting and getting up from the seat. Design workstations so it is easy for drop-in visitors or supervisors to sit down while speaking, or to lean on the wall of the console, as some supervisors in PSAPs like to do. This will tend to reduce disturbances to other operators. Plan for ventilation air flow. Most traditional offices have ventilation ducting. This is usually not the case with open-plan cubicles, so they become dead-air cul-de-sacs that are extremely resistant to solutions that are implemented afterwards. Over-plan for storage space and invest in storage solutions that can integrate into the consoles. Open-plan systems with their emphasis on tidiness and pleasant aesthetics seem to chronically underestimate the storage needs of people, both for personal effects and professional tools. A final remark on designing a control room that people actually want to work at “It is impossible to completely anticipate a future work situation in all its aspects, as work situations are complex, dynamic, and evolving.” Optimizing the working conditions at an individual control console is a multifaceted endeavour. By recognizing the absence of a one-size-fits-all posture and prioritizing personalized ergonomic solutions, health, and comfort, operators can enjoy enhanced productivity and overall well-being. Implementing these recommendations will contribute to a more efficient and comfortable working environment for mission-critical settings, ultimately benefiting both operators and the organizations they serve. If you are in the process of renovating your command center contact us to get a free quote. Our team of specialists and designers will work with you to create a workspace that adapts to your needs and requirements. Sources: Salvendy, Gavriel. Handbook of Human Factors and Ergonomics. Fourth Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., 2012