benefits summary why commandbatch? command alkon · pdf filewhy commandbatch? benefits summary...

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Command Alkon

R e a d y - M i x e d C n c r e t e P l a n t A u t m a t i n

WWhhyy CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh??BBeenneeffiittss SSuummmmaarryy

QQuuaalliittyy YYoouu CCaann CCoouunntt OOnn

SSuuppeerriioorr PPrroodduuccttiivviittyy && PPeerrffoorrmmaannccee

AAddvvaanncceedd AAddmmiinniissttrraattiioonn && IInntteeggrraattiioonn

RReemmoottee PPllaanntt MMoonniittoorriinngg && TTuunnee UUpp

RReemmoottee DDiiaaggnnoossttiiccss && TTrroouubblleesshhoooottiinngg

RReemmoottee BBaattcchhiinngg && MMiixx DDeessiiggnn CChhaannggeessMMiiggrraattiioonn PPaatthhss ffrroomm LLeeggaaccyy SSyysstteemmss

BBeenneeffiittss ooff CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh� Automatic notification of batch “out of tolerance” with

Plant Watcher, protects against out of specification loads from reaching the job site

� COMMANDbatch Freewheeling maximizes plant productivity and gets the first round in the morning out in less time

� Admix Designs (mix modifiers) reduce errors and QCmix maintenance time

� Remote Batching allows low volume plants to operate cost effectively

� Automated Remote Assistance, including online technician chat, keeps plant downtime to a minimum

� Early identification of plant batching issues or trends with Plant Performance Graphs

� Save time and reduce data entry errors by using the Mix Manager to adjust a large number of mixes at thesame time

� Automatic data archiving and backup reduces plant shutdown tasks and time while safeguarding data

� Available with Precision Water System for precise water management

CCoommmmaanndd AAllkkoonn IInnccoorrppoorraatteeddHHeeaaddqquuaarrtteerrss

1800 International Park Dr., Suite 400Birmingham, AL 35243 USA

+1 (205) 879-3282Fax: +1 (205) 870-1405

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CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchhPPllaanntt WWaattcchheerrPPrreecciissiioonn WWaatteerr SSyysstteemmCCoommmmaanndd AAllkkoonn MMooiissttuurree PPrroobbeeCCOOMMMMAANNDDccaallllbbooaarrddAAuuttoommaattiicc BBiinn FFiillll SSyysstteemm

RReeaaddyy--MMiixxeedd CCoonnccrreetteePPllaanntt AAuuttoommaattiioonn

AAuuttoommaattiicc BBiinn FFiillll SSyysstteemm

� Automates bin replenishment, allowing staff to concentrateon more important and time critical operations in the plant

� “Keep Full” ensures the batch plant bins remain full, preventing production delays

COMMANDbatch is one component of an integrated suite of enterprise ready

products offered by Command Alkon. Our goal is to enable the enterprise wide

integration of systems to reduce or eliminate information and reporting gaps, render

“double entry” of unnecessary information, aim for completely paperless transactions,

and capture all billing and production data automatically. We do this all the while

ensuring that key personnel are always up-to-date on the company’s operation.www.commandalkon.com

BBeenneeffiittss ooff AAuuttoommaattiicc BBiinn FFiillll SSyysstteemm

pprroovviiddeess aa ffaasstt,, aauuttoommaatteedd,, aannddccoosstt--eeffffeeccttiivvee wwaayy ttoo ggeett mmaatteerriiaallssffrroomm uunnddeerrggrroouunndd ssttoorraaggee bbuunnkkeerrssiinnttoo oovveerrhheeaadd bbiinnss..

The system’s standard controls permit auto-matic monitoring and replenishment for up tosix bins. The system allows priority-firstreplenishment if materials from one under-ground storage bunker are required moreoften than others.

The system is designed to:

� determine the need for a material � rotate the turnhead or shuttle

conveyor into the correct position � turn on the feed belts as needed � open the correct feed gate on the

underground storage silo � monitor the process until filling is

complete

As the system sequences from one material tothe next the Automatic Bin Fill system will:

� close the gate in use on the underground storage � determine the turnheadpositioning

delay � open the feed gate for the next

material while ensuring the proper beltdelay to prevent cross contamination of material bins

Any or all materials can be manually overriddenat any time. An alarm indicator alerts the userto plant malfunctions. The emergency stopbutton halts all related plant motion in theevent of a belt break or other hazard.

“Command Alkon’s Automatic Bin Fill System fulfills a critical rolewithin Florida Rock’s Ready Mix production operations. TheAutomatic Bin Fill System consistently and reliably ensures theright materials are always available in the plant to meet our production needs. We own seven of them; more are sure to followin the future.”

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� 33,,550000++ CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh ssyysstteemmss in operation around the world.� 1100,,000000++ CCoommmmaanndd AAllkkoonn MMooiissttuurree PPrroobbeess in use at ready-mixed plants worldwide.� 220000++ AAuuttoommaattiicc BBiinn FFiillll SSyysstteemmss in use at plants around the world.

www.commandalkon.com

CCoonnvveerrssiioonnss ffoorr AACC22000000,, EEaaggllee,, aannddSSppeeccttrruumm ttoo CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh

CCoommmmaanndd AAllkkoonn iiss ccoommmmiitttteedd ttoo eexxtteennddiinngg tthhee lliiffee ooff yyoouurr iinnvveessttmmeenntt..A modern, state-of-the-art batching system can be had for significantly less money and time than the “ripand replace” method using a migration pathway to COMMANDbatch. As Command Alkon continues toadvance the technology and capabilities of COMMANDbatch, your company, through software upgrades,will be assured of keeping pace with future changes.

“We have converted four existing Spectrums to COMMANDbatch. With Command Alkon’s attention to preserving existing investments, the process was straightforward and cost effective. With these plants nowconverted to COMMANDbatch, we are using the advanced capabilities of this system, such as RemoteBatching, to be more efficient and lower costs more than ever before.”

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EZ-Cal Version 6, Version 4

Phase III to V* Version 6, Version 4

Sprint I* Version 4

Sprint I* Version 4

Spectrum, Sprint I


Level 8 Level 8

Level 7 Level 7

Level 6 Level 6

Level 5 Level 5

Eagle, Eagle Plus, Eagle Jr.,Enhanced Eagle, Enhanced Eagle Jr.


Level 1 Level 1

Eagle Flex


EZ-Cal Version 2

AC2000

* Hardware conversion to EZ-Cal can be added at thistime (but is not required) should the customer seek tohave consistent systems companywide.

WWhhaatt ttyyppeess ooff ssyysstteemmss aarree eelliiggiibbllee ffoorr ccoonnvveerrssiioonn ttoo CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh?? Those summarized below are eligible. Note that if youhave maintained a Priority One Support Agreement onone of these Command Alkon batch controls, a discountis offered on the conversion to COMMANDbatch.

AAmm II rreeqquuiirreedd ttoo rreeppllaaccee aallll ooff mmyy hhaarrddwwaarree??No. Unnecessary components will be replaced with a single‘plug compatible’ component, along with a new PC. In mostcases, there are no changes to any plant wiring.

CCaann II aadddd oonn eexxttrraass tthhaatt mmyy ccuurrrreenntt ssyysstteemmddooeess nnoott hhaavvee?? Yes. Any additional features and capabilities ofCOMMANDbatch can be included as part of the conversion.These features include items such as COMMANDassist,Remote Batching and Remote Client, Plant Watcher,Dispatch, Multiple Plant Setup, and more . . .

DDoo II nneeeedd CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh aattttaacchheedd ttoo aaNNeettwwoorrkk?? No. While COMMANDbatch does require a network connection between the operator PC and the system controls, connection to an office business network is notrequired. However, if you wish to take advantage of featuressuch as COMMANDassist or Plant Watcher then a connection to the Internet is required.

WWhhaatt iiss tthhee mmiiggrraattiioonn pprroocceessss??Prior to conversion, Command Alkon requests a copy of theexisting system data to prepare for the conversion. Our personnel will ensure that existing plant information (materials, mix designs, etc.) are converted and installed onthe new operator PC before shipment. Command Alkon willprepare batch personnel for training by ensuring that theyhave the knowledge and skills needed to operate in aWindows environment. Once these preparations are madethe conversion can be scheduled. The actual conversionincludes installation of new hardware; set up of LAN connections; configuration of incoming links, remote clientaccess and any new options; plus execution of test materialdrops. The Batch Support Specialist will also provide anintroduction to COMMANDbatch Basic System Operationsand assist with plant startup and performance tuning.

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Select tickets and fine-tune batches before theyare started. Prepare the next load and changesettings on-the-fly, all from the same screen.Standard reports are included so you can monitor inventory, material usage, and general lists of orders, tickets, and mix designs.Reports can be created and customized to fityour specific business needs or exported toMicrosoft Excel for further evaluation.

Animated graphics show plant equipment weighing up and delivering material to the truckor mixer in real-time.

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“COMMANDbatch is accurate, reliable, and easy-to-use. There's lots of information that can bedetermined at a glance. Our batch personnel can adjust mixes and materials on-the-fly and theyknow immediately when something is out of tolerance. With COMMANDbatch there's no moreguesswork.”

BBiillllyy CCaarrrroolllliimmii--TTeennnneesssseeee



TTrraaiinniinnggMMaakkee ssuurree yyoouurr ssttaaffff kknnooww hhooww ttoo ggeett tthhee mmoosstt oouutt ooff tthhee CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh ssyysstteemm.. Command Alkon Training ensures that your staff is fully utilizing the purchased software and hardware features. Ourtraining services include a well-designed curriculum of offerings both on-site and in our Learning Centers, as wellas customized courses.

TTrraaiinniinngg aatt IInnssttaallllaattiioonnUpon installation of your COMMANDbatch system, our batchsupport specialist will provide your operators with an introductionto COMMANDbatch and basic system operations.

FFoollllooww UUpp TTrraaiinniinnggDoes your staff remember all of the options and flexibilityavailable in the COMMANDbatch software? Most usersexperience only 30% retention during any training session, so employees can always benefit from refresher training. Plus, after your employees have been using our products for a while, they will have questions involving situations they have experienced and will better understand what they needto know to do their job well.

NNeeww EEmmppllooyyeeee TTrraaiinniinnggTurnover is a reality in any industry. Command Alkon trainingfor new employees allows them to receive the same benefitsthat were gained during the initial installation of your system.Training helps new employees to learn their jobs faster and toquickly contribute to your overall profitability.

PPllaanntt SSiittee TTrraaiinniinnggHave no time to allocate for employees being away from the jobfor formal training? Command Alkon can schedule a batch supportspecialist on-site to perform user training during normal operationson basic operational functions and assist with plant performanceissues.

CCuussttoommiizzeedd CCoouurrsseessOur training staff can work with your team to design andexecute a training course or entire curriculum that is tailoredto the specific needs of your business and operations. Thistraining can even include the use of a training copy of yourexisting database.

Visit us online at

www.commandalkon.com/training.aspto review course descriptions, training schedules, training rates, and methods to register.

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AAuuttoommaattiicc PPllaanntt CCoonnttrrooll::� 4-6 Aggregates, 3 Cements, 2 Waters (metered),

8 Admixes (metered) - (model RM200)� Additional Material and Scale Controls**� Multi-batch and Freewheel Batching Control� Truck Charge Rate Adjustable On-The-Fly� High Speed Weigh-Up Algorithm for Fast Plant

Performance� Automatic Scale Tolerance Checking� Automatic Bin Switching� Automatic Bin/Silo Vibrator Control� Scale Rate of Discharge� Scale Flow Control Dampening� Continuous Batching / Continuous Discharge� Communication with PLC Devices to Extend Reach

of The System� Central Mix Control**� Temperature Gun/Probe Interface**� Density Meter Interface**� State Certification Package (NY, CA, NJ, MN)**� Other Optional Automatic Plant Controls Including:

Blower, Plant Dust Collector, Silo Shaker, Spray Bar, Conveyor Controls, Mixer Controls, Telescopic Boot, Recirculating Screw, Live Bottom Batcher, Dual Aggregate Discharge Gates, Bin Lamps, and Switches**

RReemmoottee BBaattcchh::� Soft Manual Station (SMS)� Remote Batching and Mix Design Changes**� Second Client Access**OOppeerraattoorr CCoonnttrroollss::� Audible Notification Alerts� On-Hand Inventory Available At-a-Glance� Low Inventory Notification to Prevent Load Start� Discharge, Weigh-Up, and Sequence Diagnostics� Training Mode, Online Help, Operator Manuals� 17” or 19”** Flat Screen Monitor(s)� Dust Proof Enclosure**PPllaanntt IInntteerrlloocckkss::� Over/Under Tolerance Interlocks� Scale Zero and Bottle Empty Interlocks� Admix Pulse (Dual) Meter Crosscheck� Scale Motion Detection

MMiixx DDeessiiggnn CCoonnttrrooll::� Mix Design Management� Admix Designs (Mix Modifiers)� Slump Tables� Allowable Water Feature� Slurry Compensation**RReeccoorrddaattiioonn::� Batch Weights Printing� Manual Material Monitor Report� Bar Code Printing**� Dot Matrix Printer, Laser Report Printer**QQuuaalliittyy CCoonnttrrooll::� Material Blending Sequence by Mix Type� Remote Access for Plant Monitoring and Tune Up� Plant Performance Graphs� Plant Watcher Automatic Notification System**� Moisture Probe Support**� Auto Consistence Slump Control**OOrrddeerr MMaannaaggeemmeenntt::� Order Entry**� Third-Party Dispatch one-way Interface**� COMMANDconcrete two-way Interface**PPllaanntt MMaannaaggeemmeenntt::� Truck Callboard Interface**AAddmmiinniissttrraattiioonn && IInntteeggrraattiioonn::� User Permissions for Configuration/Editing� Recordation/Logs of Changes� Auto Archive, Auto Purge, and Auto Backup� Ticket and Material Records Export Utilities� Microsoft Vista, XP, SQL Server Compatible� Enterprise Content Management Option for

Electronic Access to Tickets/Batchweight Files**� Custom Format Ticket File Export**� Multi-Plant Support**� Multi-Company Support**� QuickBooks Interface**MMaaiinntteennaannccee::� Remote Diagnostics and Troubleshooting� COMMANDassist Automated Remote Assistant � Maintenance Scheduling Feature� Expendable Parts Kit and Plant Wiring Diagrams� One Year Batch System and Software Priority One

Support

**Denotes Optional Feature


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With AAuuttoo AArrcchhiivvee, COMMANDbatch is capable of completing critical daily database maintenance “Behind the Scenes”throughout the business day, reducing the time required to perform end-of-business daily routines. Auto-Archive movesyour valuable batching related data from the active to an archive database, allowing the system to operate at peak

performance, while giving you the confidence that all of your batching records arepermanently stored for access at a later date. Auto-Archive eliminates the need tomaintain and manage paper tickets, as archived tickets can be previewed andreprinted.

AAuuttoo PPuurrggee maintains optimal system performance by purging obsolete informationto manage the size of the database. Further, this minimizes the amount of storagerequired for long-term data backup.

With AAuuttoo BBaacckkuupp enabled, COMMANDbatch will automatically create a local andredundant off site backup of your database files every 24 hours. This feature willensure that an up-to-date system backup can be used during the disaster recoveryprocess. COMMANDbatch Auto Backup will ensure that business critical information,such as plant configuration, batching history, materials, mix designs, customers, andorders can be easily recovered, resulting in minimal plant down time and data loss.

TTiicckkeett oouuttppuutt generated by the batching process can be automatically saved in a text orPDF document and stored on a server. When ccoommbbiinneedd wwiitthh CCoommmmaanndd AAllkkoonn’’ssEEnntteerrpprriissee CCoonntteenntt MMaannaaggeemmeenntt ((EECCMM)) the ticket information, including actual batch-weights, are easily accessible by batching, dispatching, and back office personnel.

AAcccceessss rriigghhttss can be defined for different classes of users toensure business processes areenforced and that sensitiveinformation is protected.

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RReemmoottee CClliieenntt allows up to three additional concurrent remote users to access the information contained in theCOMMANDbatch database. This means that ppllaanntt mmoonniittoorriinngg,, ttuunnee uupp,, mmiixx ddeessiiggnn mmaannaaggeemmeenntt,, ddiiaaggnnoossttiiccss,, aanndd ttrroouubblleesshhoooottiinngg are possible anywhere, anytime! Remote Client users can perform tasks without interfering with normaloperation of the batching system. Data records can be created, updated, or deleted for customers, mixes, other products, pricing, orders, and etc. Plant automation can be modified including bin tuning, discharge tuning, and devicesequencing/material blending. Troubleshooting of issues can occur using built-in tools such as Weigh-Up or DischargeDiagnostics, Sequence Tracer,Custom Equation Monitor, or TicketFormat Helper. Most reports can bepreviewed or printed remotely. Withthe addition of remote batching hard-ware and software, these additionalclients can perform Remote Batching.With the Remote Client and MixManager features used together,Quality Control personnel can updatemix designs remotely and distributethem enterprise wide with a click ofthe mouse.

RReemmoottee BBaattcchhiinngg && RReemmoottee CClliieennttCCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh

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Do you have a remote plant thatdoesn't do the business of your highvolume plants? With RReemmootteeBBaattcchhiinngg lower volume plants canbe operated safely, reliably, andcost-effectively from a different location anytime. When a driverpulls through, the remote batchercan load the truck, then shut theplant back down. Soft ManualStation (SMS) controls allow operation of bins and hoppers, andmanual controls such as air compressor, boot up/down, washoutwater, etc., from the remote location.

The Driver Authorization Box is part of theRemote Batching configuration which allowsthe COMMANDbatch software to recognizewhen a remotely started load is authorized for production.

The Mix Manager screen allows a group of mixes to be selected by a filtersuch as “Find all mixes starting with 250”. With a few clicks these mixes canhave a material quantity adjustment (add or remove) or material substituted.


COMMANDbatch comes equipped with standardized reporting procedures commonto all ready-mixed concrete plants. SSttaannddaarrddRReeppoorrttss include: Yards Per Driver Hour,Consolidated Order, Ticket Summary,Materials Inventory, Tickets by CustomerSummary, as well as many others. Manyreports can be exported into Microsoft Excelfor further analysis.

PPllaanntt PPeerrffoorrmmaannccee GGrraapphhss help you determine why a load took too long to complete or why it was out of tolerance. The Load Times Graph shows Weigh-Up and Discharge times for each load. A Deviations Graphshows tolerance information for each material batched. You can right-click on a load code and select“Productivity” to display Drop Times for each material.

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COMMANDassist provides securetransmission of information to and froma Command Alkon service technicianvia a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection made through the Internet.

COMMANDassist allows you to receivetechnical support via your existinghigh-speed Internet connection usingour secure VPN support network.Once connected, users have the abilityto create new support requests, modifyexisting support requests, and previewpending support requests. The included chat functionality allows youto communicate with our CommandAlkon support personnel while continuing production and without tyingup the production facility phone lines.

Using COMMANDassist, a servicetechnician can troubleshoot batchingissues without interrupting your plant’s batching operations, can answer yourquestions on specific topics, canmanually download and assist withthe installation of software updates,and can modify plant automation.

BBeenneeffiittss ooff CCOOMMMMAANNDDaassssiisstt� 128-bit encrypted data transmission using Public Key Infrastructure � Point-to-Point connectivity only when requested� Command Alkon only has access when you initiate a support request� Command Alkon can only access the machine requesting support� No need to provide Command Alkon with full access to your company network� Only one firewall modification required� All data travels outbound on port 1194 (Open VPN)� No need for dial-up modem or dedicated analog phone line� Uses your existing high-speed network connection


PPrroodduuccttiivviittyy && PPeerrffoorrmmaanncceeCCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh

COMMANDbatch FFrreeeewwhheeeelliinnggmaximizes plant productivity byweighing-up the next load as soon asyour device, such as a scale or bottle,has fed material for the previousload. Up to three loads can berunning at the same time, makingmaximum use of plant equipment.This can significantly improve plantthroughput with slow feeding materials such as metered water oraugered cement.

The WWeeiigghh--UUpp DDiiaaggnnoossttiiccss utility lets youview data from a material’s open/closegate cycle so you can troubleshoot feeding problems and thereby improveplant production. Navigating among theutility’s diagnostics forms, you can determine which feed cycle (Fast, Timed,Jog, or Metered) was used, why it wasused, if it fed the expected amount ofmaterial, and how drop times and preact(material in flight) values were calculated.The DDiisscchhaarrggee DDiiaaggnnoossttiiccss form allowsyou to monitor scale flow rates, moisturesettings, and mixer relative power setpoints (for Auto-Consistence). Theinformation displayed can be saved forlater retrieval.

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“The Admix Design feature on COMMANDbatch allows us to downsize the number of mix designs andensures that any changes made on-the-fly are billed accordingly. Admix Design allows us to limit thehandling of changes made, resulting in fewer mistakes. Accounting is simplified and accuracy of inventorycontrol is much better.”

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Substantially reduce the number of mix designs whilereducing potential errors using AAddmmiixx DDeessiiggnn (modifiermix) capabilities. A small number of “base” mixes canbe customized on a per order basis using these modifiermixes. When the order is selected for batching, the mixwill automatically be customized based upon the order.This provides for a wide variety of mix combinations

MMaatteerriiaall SSeeqquueenncciinngg ensures consistent, reliable, and predictableconcrete homogeneity load after load.Each class of mix (grout, low slump,flowable, etc.) can have a unique,specialized blending sequence toensure the ingredients are added atthe precise time and at the preciserate. Different sequences can bespecified when charging a truck or amixer.

without having to create a special mix for a customer.Adding hot water, calcium, or making the mix a bit easier to finish for that certain customer is no longersomething that the operator has to remember. Sincethe mix modification is defined by the order, the concrete mix will be correct no matter how many plantsare used to fulfill the order.

As a producer, you know the best place to achieve predictable and consistent quality concrete is at the plant. Meetingthe requirements for high performance concrete with the minimum amount of cost depends not only on the availability ofthe best raw materials but also on how these materials are introduced during the mixing process. COMMANDbatchprovides ttoooollss uunnmmaattcchheedd bbyy ccoommppeettiittiivvee ssyysstteemmss to ensure that the proper mix constituents are specified and thencombined in a manner to yield the maximum results.


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� Reduces lost in-yard time� Helps to eliminate unnecessary truck traffic around the plant� Truck drivers do not need to leave their trucks� Truck drivers can now keep themselves in proper order� Cuts down on radio traffic� Automatically send messages to driver including:

- Delivery Instructions- Lane Selection- Extra Product Information- Special Loading Instructions

� Scrolling information messages serve as reminders� Wireless connection for ease of installation

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Using information sent from either COMMANDseriesor entered directly into COMMANDbatch by the operator, the COMMANDcallboard automatically displays individual truck numbers, lane selection,delivery instructions, and/or other information toassist the driver in loading. When no trucks are beingloaded, scrolling messages such as “Number of dayssince last accident: 161”, or “Be sure to empty yourdrum before loading” can be displayed.

The Callboard includes 7-inch, red, alphanumericcharacters utilizing ultra-bright LED technology toprovide ease of readability in all lighting conditions,including direct sunlight. The board is encased in aweather-resistant enclosure and is designed for wide-angle viewing.

Data is transmitted to the board via Wireless RF fromthe system. The robust protocol utilizes frequencyhopping, data encryption, and verified delivery. Thetypical range is 1,000 feet line of sight.

Installation is simple. The only requirements aremounting the enclosure and supplying AC voltage.

PPoowweerr:: 85-264 VAC, 50 or 60 Hz, 200 watts maximum (1.7 amps at 120 VAC)EEnncclloossuurree:: 32” H x 26” W x 10” DWWeeiigghhtt:: 55 lbsDDiissppllaayy:: 27” H x 21” W, three rows display 3-4 characters eachWWiirreelleessss RRFF UUnniitt:: 2-1/4” H x 6 1/2” W x 7” DRRSS--223322 CCaabbllee:: 15’PPoowweerr CCoorrdd:: 4-1/2’RRFF LLiinnkk:: 915 Mhz, ISM band,

license free

"The truck callboards have improved our fleet efficiency at the plants. They have also significantlyreduced radio traffic related to truck staging. The callboards have been a worthwhile investment."

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Schedule Production, Efficiency, andInventory Reports to be automaticallycollected and e-mailed at the sametime every day, freeing the operatorfrom having to manually print and faxthis information.

The system uses Profiles, created foreach batch plant to be monitored, tostore information about Sites, Events,E-mail Recipients, and PlantPerformance Data. When an eventoccurs at a monitored plant thatsatisfies the criteria defined in aProfile, an e-mail alert describing theevent is dispatched to all defined recipients. E-mail alerts are deliveredonly once to each requester and delivery is guaranteed in the event ofnetwork or other outages once the network is restored.

The system is comprised of the PlantWatcher Server and the Plant WatcherConfiguration Utility. The Plant WatcherServer houses the Plant Watcher database,monitors events at designated plants, andsends e-mail alerts to the designatedrecipients. A Diagnostics Console is usedfor configuring and troubleshooting theserver. The Plant Watcher ConfigurationUtility can run on any workstation. It allowsthe system to be configured for SMTP serveridentification and authentication, and Site,Profile, Recipient, and e-mail Setups, from aremote location.

“Our organization depends on Plant Watcher to help usmanage and protect our business. We thought for surewe knew how our plants were running, but the information provided by Plant Watcher highlighted newopportunities for efficiency and cost savings. The real-time notification by Plant Watcher of an out of specification load for a critical pour alerts our QCdepartment, day or night, to step in and prevent thatload from being placed! For companies who wish to beproactive about Quality Control, Plant Watcher is ameaningful and cost-effective addition.”

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� Plant ‘Dashboard’ provides near real-time view of plant activities� Automatic notification of “out of tolerance” protects against out of specification

loads from reaching the job site� Guaranteed delivery via e-mail ensures notification after a network or other

outage once the network is restored� Plant profiles assure notification of the right individual for the right event� Automatic delivery of key production, inventory, efficiency, and other reports keeps

you informed about your business while allowing the plant operator to focus on production and quality

� Instant notification of mix design changes or material substitutions by any plant allows interception of a bad or incorrect load before it leaves the plant


MMooiissttuurree PPrroobbeeTThhee CCoommmmaanndd AAllkkoonn

aalllloowwss yyoouu ttoo mmeeaassuurree tthhee mmooiissttuurree ccoonntteennttooff yyoouurr ffiinnee aaggggrreeggaatteess aass tthheeyy ffllooww iinnttoo aabbaattcchh..

The Command Alkon Moisture Probe has been proven tomeasurably increase product quality and finish, and reduceoverall batching times and material waste, resulting inincreased customer satisfaction and profitability.

Our moisture probe is unique in that it can continuouslyadjust the load water as the material flows over theprobe, a method that ensures consistent slump pre-dictability in high specification concrete and concreteproduct manufacturing. You will always know yourmoisture value because this probe is consistentlyaccurate to within ±0.3%. The probe achieves thisconsistency through innovative self-adjusting circuitrythat detects and corrects changes caused by time andtemperature.

The probe is housed in a one-piece stainless steel casingwith increased steel thickness in the heaviest wear areas.Mounted directly above the feed gate, the speciallydesigned probe collar makes it unnecessary to drain thebin, and the simple design eliminates any need to fabricatecomplicated mounting brackets or pipe assemblies. Thesmaller ceramic faceplate further reduces vulnerability fromaccidental impact damage.

The probe can be installed and calibrated to the material ina matter of hours. A “one-knob” adjustment based on theresults of a simple bake-out procedure has the probeready to provide accurate moisture measurement, batch, afterbatch, after batch.

Thousands of truckloads attest to the fact that theCommand Alkon Moisture Probe can virtually eliminate“load doctoring” by delivering accurate and consistentslumps every time.

� SSiizzee:: 75 mm (3") dia. x 60 cm (23.25") long� WWeeiigghhtt:: 7.25 kg (16 lbs.)� BBooddyy MMaatteerriiaall:: Stainless steel� FFaaccee MMaatteerriiaall:: High strength ceramic� MMeeaassuurreemmeenntt RRaannggee: Depends on material

composition� OOppeerraattiinngg TTeemmppeerraattuurree:: 2° - 49° C (35° - 120° F)� TTyyppiiccaall AAccccuurraaccyy:: +/- 0.3% � CCoonnnneeccttiioonn: 6-pin type PT06 waterproof connector� CCaabbllee:: 6 conductor, 24 gauge, shielded

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“Command Alkon’s Moisture Probe is a proven performer. The probe is easy to install,easy to calibrate, and most importantly, provides reliable moisture measurements withoutfurther calibration load after load. ”

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Production of high strength, architectural,or self-consolidating concrete mixesrequires precise management of the totalwater in the mix to achieve specified performance results. While there are avariety of moisture sensors offered tomeasure this moisture, typically theseare managed by a separate, standaloneprogram or require manual calculationsor a spreadsheet to calibrate.

The Precision Water System gives youthe ability to calibrate and simultaneouslymeasure up to 12 probes. The systemallows you to capture sample moisturereadings with the click of a button, provides an easy and accurate calibration process, and supportsmultiple bin-material-probe combinations. Withthe Precision Water System, you will reduce oreliminate time-consuming, costly, and manualprocesses involved in sampling and calibratingprobes or adjusting water content.

Why continue to struggle with loads that are notproduced at the desired slump, increasing yourcosts and potentially damaging your reputation and customer satisfaction? With thePrecision Water System you are on your way tomore consistent loads, better yield management,lower costs, and more satisfied customers.

The Precision Water System (PWS) includes:� PWS Software Module� PWS Moisture Interface Controller Junction Box (MIC) with

support for up to 12 Moisture Probes, in multiples of two

Additional equipment purchased separately:� Moisture Probes� Cables to connect Moisture Probes to MIC� Windows-based PC where PWS Software Module will reside

(PC must have network support for configuration and calibration)

WWhhaatt aarree tthhee bbaassiicc ccoommppoonneennttss??Moisture Interface Controller

Junction Box (MIC)

� Provides calibrated readings of up to 12 moisture probes on a variety of materials up to 1” coarse aggregates. (Contact us regardinglarger aggregates.)

� Stores a distinct calibration for each probe-bin-material combination.

� Stores unlimited moisture sample and bake-out pairs for each probe-bin-material combination.

� PWS Dashboard allows operator to review value of each moisture probe in a variety of views: Active Calibration View, Current MoistureView, Calibration History View.

� Operator can choose whether or not to recalibrate based on visual analysis of probe readings.

� “Lock and Load” sample mode for automatic capture of probe readings for the next bake-out.

� Automatic and manual modes.� System available in optional standalone

configuration for non-COMMANDbatch systems.� Includes default calibrations for a range of

materials that allow for immediate use of the system until bake-outs and final calibration occurs.

� Replacement probes can be calibrated with onebake-out.

FFeeaattuurreessCalibration and Bake-Out Screen (All absorptions have been set to zero)

� Expanding the number of measured materials with PWS reduces unknown sources of slump variability in a load. This diminishes or eliminates the need to overdesign mixes to compensate for unmanaged water.

� You can use a single bin for a variety of materials. When the operator informs COMMANDbatch that a different material is now in a bin, the system instantly and automatically reconfigures itself to the correct material moisture calibration profile.

� Easy and accurate probe calibration.� Moisture sample capture at the click of a button.� Save time and money by reducing frequency of bake-outs.� Reduces time spent adding water to batches.

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The PWS provides for the automatic capture of amoisture sample with the click of a button. Multiplesamples for different materials can be captured ata time and the sample information automaticallystored in the PWS application. Once bake-out values are available, results are entered into thePWS. The PWS automatically takes each bake-out pair and calculates the moisture, compensatingfor absorption, performs an out-of-bounds check,and then stores the test values permanently in thePWS database. As more and more bake-outs are accumulated, the program adjusts the probe calibration to reflect the new data, resulting in avery accurate calibration. Once calibrated, the system operates independently with no operatorintervention required.

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Schedule Production, Efficiency, andInventory Reports to be automaticallycollected and e-mailed at the sametime every day, freeing the operatorfrom having to manually print and faxthis information.

The system uses Profiles, created foreach batch plant to be monitored, tostore information about Sites, Events,E-mail Recipients, and PlantPerformance Data. When an eventoccurs at a monitored plant thatsatisfies the criteria defined in aProfile, an e-mail alert describing theevent is dispatched to all defined recipients. E-mail alerts are deliveredonly once to each requester and delivery is guaranteed in the event ofnetwork or other outages once the network is restored.

The system is comprised of the PlantWatcher Server and the Plant WatcherConfiguration Utility. The Plant WatcherServer houses the Plant Watcher database,monitors events at designated plants, andsends e-mail alerts to the designatedrecipients. A Diagnostics Console is usedfor configuring and troubleshooting theserver. The Plant Watcher ConfigurationUtility can run on any workstation. It allowsthe system to be configured for SMTP serveridentification and authentication, and Site,Profile, Recipient, and e-mail Setups, from aremote location.

“Our organization depends on Plant Watcher to help usmanage and protect our business. We thought for surewe knew how our plants were running, but the information provided by Plant Watcher highlighted newopportunities for efficiency and cost savings. The real-time notification by Plant Watcher of an out of specification load for a critical pour alerts our QCdepartment, day or night, to step in and prevent thatload from being placed! For companies who wish to beproactive about Quality Control, Plant Watcher is ameaningful and cost-effective addition.”

SStteevvee WWaaggeenneerrKKuuhhllmmaann CCoorrppoorraattiioonn

� Plant ‘Dashboard’ provides near real-time view of plant activities� Automatic notification of “out of tolerance” protects against out of specification

loads from reaching the job site� Guaranteed delivery via e-mail ensures notification after a network or other

outage once the network is restored� Plant profiles assure notification of the right individual for the right event� Automatic delivery of key production, inventory, efficiency, and other reports keeps

you informed about your business while allowing the plant operator to focus on production and quality

� Instant notification of mix design changes or material substitutions by any plant allows interception of a bad or incorrect load before it leaves the plant


MMooiissttuurree PPrroobbeeTThhee CCoommmmaanndd AAllkkoonn

aalllloowwss yyoouu ttoo mmeeaassuurree tthhee mmooiissttuurree ccoonntteennttooff yyoouurr ffiinnee aaggggrreeggaatteess aass tthheeyy ffllooww iinnttoo aabbaattcchh..

The Command Alkon Moisture Probe has been proven tomeasurably increase product quality and finish, and reduceoverall batching times and material waste, resulting inincreased customer satisfaction and profitability.

Our moisture probe is unique in that it can continuouslyadjust the load water as the material flows over theprobe, a method that ensures consistent slump pre-dictability in high specification concrete and concreteproduct manufacturing. You will always know yourmoisture value because this probe is consistentlyaccurate to within ±0.3%. The probe achieves thisconsistency through innovative self-adjusting circuitrythat detects and corrects changes caused by time andtemperature.

The probe is housed in a one-piece stainless steel casingwith increased steel thickness in the heaviest wear areas.Mounted directly above the feed gate, the speciallydesigned probe collar makes it unnecessary to drain thebin, and the simple design eliminates any need to fabricatecomplicated mounting brackets or pipe assemblies. Thesmaller ceramic faceplate further reduces vulnerability fromaccidental impact damage.

The probe can be installed and calibrated to the material ina matter of hours. A “one-knob” adjustment based on theresults of a simple bake-out procedure has the probeready to provide accurate moisture measurement, batch, afterbatch, after batch.

Thousands of truckloads attest to the fact that theCommand Alkon Moisture Probe can virtually eliminate“load doctoring” by delivering accurate and consistentslumps every time.

� SSiizzee:: 75 mm (3") dia. x 60 cm (23.25") long� WWeeiigghhtt:: 7.25 kg (16 lbs.)� BBooddyy MMaatteerriiaall:: Stainless steel� FFaaccee MMaatteerriiaall:: High strength ceramic� MMeeaassuurreemmeenntt RRaannggee: Depends on material

composition� OOppeerraattiinngg TTeemmppeerraattuurree:: 2° - 49° C (35° - 120° F)� TTyyppiiccaall AAccccuurraaccyy:: +/- 0.3% � CCoonnnneeccttiioonn: 6-pin type PT06 waterproof connector� CCaabbllee:: 6 conductor, 24 gauge, shielded

SSppeecciiffiiccaattiioonnss

“Command Alkon’s Moisture Probe is a proven performer. The probe is easy to install,easy to calibrate, and most importantly, provides reliable moisture measurements withoutfurther calibration load after load. ”

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“The Admix Design feature on COMMANDbatch allows us to downsize the number of mix designs andensures that any changes made on-the-fly are billed accordingly. Admix Design allows us to limit thehandling of changes made, resulting in fewer mistakes. Accounting is simplified and accuracy of inventorycontrol is much better.”

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Substantially reduce the number of mix designs whilereducing potential errors using AAddmmiixx DDeessiiggnn (modifiermix) capabilities. A small number of “base” mixes canbe customized on a per order basis using these modifiermixes. When the order is selected for batching, the mixwill automatically be customized based upon the order.This provides for a wide variety of mix combinations

MMaatteerriiaall SSeeqquueenncciinngg ensures consistent, reliable, and predictableconcrete homogeneity load after load.Each class of mix (grout, low slump,flowable, etc.) can have a unique,specialized blending sequence toensure the ingredients are added atthe precise time and at the preciserate. Different sequences can bespecified when charging a truck or amixer.

without having to create a special mix for a customer.Adding hot water, calcium, or making the mix a bit easier to finish for that certain customer is no longersomething that the operator has to remember. Sincethe mix modification is defined by the order, the concrete mix will be correct no matter how many plantsare used to fulfill the order.

As a producer, you know the best place to achieve predictable and consistent quality concrete is at the plant. Meetingthe requirements for high performance concrete with the minimum amount of cost depends not only on the availability ofthe best raw materials but also on how these materials are introduced during the mixing process. COMMANDbatchprovides ttoooollss uunnmmaattcchheedd bbyy ccoommppeettiittiivvee ssyysstteemmss to ensure that the proper mix constituents are specified and thencombined in a manner to yield the maximum results.


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� Reduces lost in-yard time� Helps to eliminate unnecessary truck traffic around the plant� Truck drivers do not need to leave their trucks� Truck drivers can now keep themselves in proper order� Cuts down on radio traffic� Automatically send messages to driver including:

- Delivery Instructions- Lane Selection- Extra Product Information- Special Loading Instructions

� Scrolling information messages serve as reminders� Wireless connection for ease of installation

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Using information sent from either COMMANDseriesor entered directly into COMMANDbatch by the operator, the COMMANDcallboard automatically displays individual truck numbers, lane selection,delivery instructions, and/or other information toassist the driver in loading. When no trucks are beingloaded, scrolling messages such as “Number of dayssince last accident: 161”, or “Be sure to empty yourdrum before loading” can be displayed.

The Callboard includes 7-inch, red, alphanumericcharacters utilizing ultra-bright LED technology toprovide ease of readability in all lighting conditions,including direct sunlight. The board is encased in aweather-resistant enclosure and is designed for wide-angle viewing.

Data is transmitted to the board via Wireless RF fromthe system. The robust protocol utilizes frequencyhopping, data encryption, and verified delivery. Thetypical range is 1,000 feet line of sight.

Installation is simple. The only requirements aremounting the enclosure and supplying AC voltage.

PPoowweerr:: 85-264 VAC, 50 or 60 Hz, 200 watts maximum (1.7 amps at 120 VAC)EEnncclloossuurree:: 32” H x 26” W x 10” DWWeeiigghhtt:: 55 lbsDDiissppllaayy:: 27” H x 21” W, three rows display 3-4 characters eachWWiirreelleessss RRFF UUnniitt:: 2-1/4” H x 6 1/2” W x 7” DRRSS--223322 CCaabbllee:: 15’PPoowweerr CCoorrdd:: 4-1/2’RRFF LLiinnkk:: 915 Mhz, ISM band,

license free

"The truck callboards have improved our fleet efficiency at the plants. They have also significantlyreduced radio traffic related to truck staging. The callboards have been a worthwhile investment."

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COMMANDassist provides securetransmission of information to and froma Command Alkon service technicianvia a Virtual Private Network (VPN) connection made through the Internet.

COMMANDassist allows you to receivetechnical support via your existinghigh-speed Internet connection usingour secure VPN support network.Once connected, users have the abilityto create new support requests, modifyexisting support requests, and previewpending support requests. The included chat functionality allows youto communicate with our CommandAlkon support personnel while continuing production and without tyingup the production facility phone lines.

Using COMMANDassist, a servicetechnician can troubleshoot batchingissues without interrupting your plant’s batching operations, can answer yourquestions on specific topics, canmanually download and assist withthe installation of software updates,and can modify plant automation.

BBeenneeffiittss ooff CCOOMMMMAANNDDaassssiisstt� 128-bit encrypted data transmission using Public Key Infrastructure � Point-to-Point connectivity only when requested� Command Alkon only has access when you initiate a support request� Command Alkon can only access the machine requesting support� No need to provide Command Alkon with full access to your company network� Only one firewall modification required� All data travels outbound on port 1194 (Open VPN)� No need for dial-up modem or dedicated analog phone line� Uses your existing high-speed network connection


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COMMANDbatch FFrreeeewwhheeeelliinnggmaximizes plant productivity byweighing-up the next load as soon asyour device, such as a scale or bottle,has fed material for the previousload. Up to three loads can berunning at the same time, makingmaximum use of plant equipment.This can significantly improve plantthroughput with slow feeding materials such as metered water oraugered cement.

The WWeeiigghh--UUpp DDiiaaggnnoossttiiccss utility lets youview data from a material’s open/closegate cycle so you can troubleshoot feeding problems and thereby improveplant production. Navigating among theutility’s diagnostics forms, you can determine which feed cycle (Fast, Timed,Jog, or Metered) was used, why it wasused, if it fed the expected amount ofmaterial, and how drop times and preact(material in flight) values were calculated.The DDiisscchhaarrggee DDiiaaggnnoossttiiccss form allowsyou to monitor scale flow rates, moisturesettings, and mixer relative power setpoints (for Auto-Consistence). Theinformation displayed can be saved forlater retrieval.

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RReemmoottee CClliieenntt allows up to three additional concurrent remote users to access the information contained in theCOMMANDbatch database. This means that ppllaanntt mmoonniittoorriinngg,, ttuunnee uupp,, mmiixx ddeessiiggnn mmaannaaggeemmeenntt,, ddiiaaggnnoossttiiccss,, aanndd ttrroouubblleesshhoooottiinngg are possible anywhere, anytime! Remote Client users can perform tasks without interfering with normaloperation of the batching system. Data records can be created, updated, or deleted for customers, mixes, other products, pricing, orders, and etc. Plant automation can be modified including bin tuning, discharge tuning, and devicesequencing/material blending. Troubleshooting of issues can occur using built-in tools such as Weigh-Up or DischargeDiagnostics, Sequence Tracer,Custom Equation Monitor, or TicketFormat Helper. Most reports can bepreviewed or printed remotely. Withthe addition of remote batching hard-ware and software, these additionalclients can perform Remote Batching.With the Remote Client and MixManager features used together,Quality Control personnel can updatemix designs remotely and distributethem enterprise wide with a click ofthe mouse.

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Do you have a remote plant thatdoesn't do the business of your highvolume plants? With RReemmootteeBBaattcchhiinngg lower volume plants canbe operated safely, reliably, andcost-effectively from a different location anytime. When a driverpulls through, the remote batchercan load the truck, then shut theplant back down. Soft ManualStation (SMS) controls allow operation of bins and hoppers, andmanual controls such as air compressor, boot up/down, washoutwater, etc., from the remote location.

The Driver Authorization Box is part of theRemote Batching configuration which allowsthe COMMANDbatch software to recognizewhen a remotely started load is authorized for production.

The Mix Manager screen allows a group of mixes to be selected by a filtersuch as “Find all mixes starting with 250”. With a few clicks these mixes canhave a material quantity adjustment (add or remove) or material substituted.


COMMANDbatch comes equipped with standardized reporting procedures commonto all ready-mixed concrete plants. SSttaannddaarrddRReeppoorrttss include: Yards Per Driver Hour,Consolidated Order, Ticket Summary,Materials Inventory, Tickets by CustomerSummary, as well as many others. Manyreports can be exported into Microsoft Excelfor further analysis.

PPllaanntt PPeerrffoorrmmaannccee GGrraapphhss help you determine why a load took too long to complete or why it was out of tolerance. The Load Times Graph shows Weigh-Up and Discharge times for each load. A Deviations Graphshows tolerance information for each material batched. You can right-click on a load code and select“Productivity” to display Drop Times for each material.

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AAuuttoommaattiicc PPllaanntt CCoonnttrrooll::� 4-6 Aggregates, 3 Cements, 2 Waters (metered),

8 Admixes (metered) - (model RM200)� Additional Material and Scale Controls**� Multi-batch and Freewheel Batching Control� Truck Charge Rate Adjustable On-The-Fly� High Speed Weigh-Up Algorithm for Fast Plant

Performance� Automatic Scale Tolerance Checking� Automatic Bin Switching� Automatic Bin/Silo Vibrator Control� Scale Rate of Discharge� Scale Flow Control Dampening� Continuous Batching / Continuous Discharge� Communication with PLC Devices to Extend Reach

of The System� Central Mix Control**� Temperature Gun/Probe Interface**� Density Meter Interface**� State Certification Package (NY, CA, NJ, MN)**� Other Optional Automatic Plant Controls Including:

Blower, Plant Dust Collector, Silo Shaker, Spray Bar, Conveyor Controls, Mixer Controls, Telescopic Boot, Recirculating Screw, Live Bottom Batcher, Dual Aggregate Discharge Gates, Bin Lamps, and Switches**

RReemmoottee BBaattcchh::� Soft Manual Station (SMS)� Remote Batching and Mix Design Changes**� Second Client Access**OOppeerraattoorr CCoonnttrroollss::� Audible Notification Alerts� On-Hand Inventory Available At-a-Glance� Low Inventory Notification to Prevent Load Start� Discharge, Weigh-Up, and Sequence Diagnostics� Training Mode, Online Help, Operator Manuals� 17” or 19”** Flat Screen Monitor(s)� Dust Proof Enclosure**PPllaanntt IInntteerrlloocckkss::� Over/Under Tolerance Interlocks� Scale Zero and Bottle Empty Interlocks� Admix Pulse (Dual) Meter Crosscheck� Scale Motion Detection

MMiixx DDeessiiggnn CCoonnttrrooll::� Mix Design Management� Admix Designs (Mix Modifiers)� Slump Tables� Allowable Water Feature� Slurry Compensation**RReeccoorrddaattiioonn::� Batch Weights Printing� Manual Material Monitor Report� Bar Code Printing**� Dot Matrix Printer, Laser Report Printer**QQuuaalliittyy CCoonnttrrooll::� Material Blending Sequence by Mix Type� Remote Access for Plant Monitoring and Tune Up� Plant Performance Graphs� Plant Watcher Automatic Notification System**� Moisture Probe Support**� Auto Consistence Slump Control**OOrrddeerr MMaannaaggeemmeenntt::� Order Entry**� Third-Party Dispatch one-way Interface**� COMMANDconcrete two-way Interface**PPllaanntt MMaannaaggeemmeenntt::� Truck Callboard Interface**AAddmmiinniissttrraattiioonn && IInntteeggrraattiioonn::� User Permissions for Configuration/Editing� Recordation/Logs of Changes� Auto Archive, Auto Purge, and Auto Backup� Ticket and Material Records Export Utilities� Microsoft Vista, XP, SQL Server Compatible� Enterprise Content Management Option for

Electronic Access to Tickets/Batchweight Files**� Custom Format Ticket File Export**� Multi-Plant Support**� Multi-Company Support**� QuickBooks Interface**MMaaiinntteennaannccee::� Remote Diagnostics and Troubleshooting� COMMANDassist Automated Remote Assistant � Maintenance Scheduling Feature� Expendable Parts Kit and Plant Wiring Diagrams� One Year Batch System and Software Priority One

Support

**Denotes Optional Feature


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With AAuuttoo AArrcchhiivvee, COMMANDbatch is capable of completing critical daily database maintenance “Behind the Scenes”throughout the business day, reducing the time required to perform end-of-business daily routines. Auto-Archive movesyour valuable batching related data from the active to an archive database, allowing the system to operate at peak

performance, while giving you the confidence that all of your batching records arepermanently stored for access at a later date. Auto-Archive eliminates the need tomaintain and manage paper tickets, as archived tickets can be previewed andreprinted.

AAuuttoo PPuurrggee maintains optimal system performance by purging obsolete informationto manage the size of the database. Further, this minimizes the amount of storagerequired for long-term data backup.

With AAuuttoo BBaacckkuupp enabled, COMMANDbatch will automatically create a local andredundant off site backup of your database files every 24 hours. This feature willensure that an up-to-date system backup can be used during the disaster recoveryprocess. COMMANDbatch Auto Backup will ensure that business critical information,such as plant configuration, batching history, materials, mix designs, customers, andorders can be easily recovered, resulting in minimal plant down time and data loss.

TTiicckkeett oouuttppuutt generated by the batching process can be automatically saved in a text orPDF document and stored on a server. When ccoommbbiinneedd wwiitthh CCoommmmaanndd AAllkkoonn’’ssEEnntteerrpprriissee CCoonntteenntt MMaannaaggeemmeenntt ((EECCMM)) the ticket information, including actual batch-weights, are easily accessible by batching, dispatching, and back office personnel.

AAcccceessss rriigghhttss can be defined for different classes of users toensure business processes areenforced and that sensitiveinformation is protected.

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Select tickets and fine-tune batches before theyare started. Prepare the next load and changesettings on-the-fly, all from the same screen.Standard reports are included so you can monitor inventory, material usage, and general lists of orders, tickets, and mix designs.Reports can be created and customized to fityour specific business needs or exported toMicrosoft Excel for further evaluation.

Animated graphics show plant equipment weighing up and delivering material to the truckor mixer in real-time.

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“COMMANDbatch is accurate, reliable, and easy-to-use. There's lots of information that can bedetermined at a glance. Our batch personnel can adjust mixes and materials on-the-fly and theyknow immediately when something is out of tolerance. With COMMANDbatch there's no moreguesswork.”

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TTrraaiinniinnggMMaakkee ssuurree yyoouurr ssttaaffff kknnooww hhooww ttoo ggeett tthhee mmoosstt oouutt ooff tthhee CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh ssyysstteemm.. Command Alkon Training ensures that your staff is fully utilizing the purchased software and hardware features. Ourtraining services include a well-designed curriculum of offerings both on-site and in our Learning Centers, as wellas customized courses.

TTrraaiinniinngg aatt IInnssttaallllaattiioonnUpon installation of your COMMANDbatch system, our batchsupport specialist will provide your operators with an introductionto COMMANDbatch and basic system operations.

FFoollllooww UUpp TTrraaiinniinnggDoes your staff remember all of the options and flexibilityavailable in the COMMANDbatch software? Most usersexperience only 30% retention during any training session, so employees can always benefit from refresher training. Plus, after your employees have been using our products for a while, they will have questions involving situations they have experienced and will better understand what they needto know to do their job well.

NNeeww EEmmppllooyyeeee TTrraaiinniinnggTurnover is a reality in any industry. Command Alkon trainingfor new employees allows them to receive the same benefitsthat were gained during the initial installation of your system.Training helps new employees to learn their jobs faster and toquickly contribute to your overall profitability.

PPllaanntt SSiittee TTrraaiinniinnggHave no time to allocate for employees being away from the jobfor formal training? Command Alkon can schedule a batch supportspecialist on-site to perform user training during normal operationson basic operational functions and assist with plant performanceissues.

CCuussttoommiizzeedd CCoouurrsseessOur training staff can work with your team to design andexecute a training course or entire curriculum that is tailoredto the specific needs of your business and operations. Thistraining can even include the use of a training copy of yourexisting database.

Visit us online at

www.commandalkon.com/training.aspto review course descriptions, training schedules, training rates, and methods to register.

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CCoommmmaanndd AAllkkoonn iiss ccoommmmiitttteedd ttoo eexxtteennddiinngg tthhee lliiffee ooff yyoouurr iinnvveessttmmeenntt..A modern, state-of-the-art batching system can be had for significantly less money and time than the “ripand replace” method using a migration pathway to COMMANDbatch. As Command Alkon continues toadvance the technology and capabilities of COMMANDbatch, your company, through software upgrades,will be assured of keeping pace with future changes.

“We have converted four existing Spectrums to COMMANDbatch. With Command Alkon’s attention to preserving existing investments, the process was straightforward and cost effective. With these plants nowconverted to COMMANDbatch, we are using the advanced capabilities of this system, such as RemoteBatching, to be more efficient and lower costs more than ever before.”

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EZ-Cal Version 6, Version 4

Phase III to V* Version 6, Version 4

Sprint I* Version 4

Sprint I* Version 4

Spectrum, Sprint I


Level 8 Level 8

Level 7 Level 7

Level 6 Level 6

Level 5 Level 5

Eagle, Eagle Plus, Eagle Jr.,Enhanced Eagle, Enhanced Eagle Jr.


Level 1 Level 1

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AC2000

* Hardware conversion to EZ-Cal can be added at thistime (but is not required) should the customer seek tohave consistent systems companywide.

WWhhaatt ttyyppeess ooff ssyysstteemmss aarree eelliiggiibbllee ffoorr ccoonnvveerrssiioonn ttoo CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh?? Those summarized below are eligible. Note that if youhave maintained a Priority One Support Agreement onone of these Command Alkon batch controls, a discountis offered on the conversion to COMMANDbatch.

AAmm II rreeqquuiirreedd ttoo rreeppllaaccee aallll ooff mmyy hhaarrddwwaarree??No. Unnecessary components will be replaced with a single‘plug compatible’ component, along with a new PC. In mostcases, there are no changes to any plant wiring.

CCaann II aadddd oonn eexxttrraass tthhaatt mmyy ccuurrrreenntt ssyysstteemmddooeess nnoott hhaavvee?? Yes. Any additional features and capabilities ofCOMMANDbatch can be included as part of the conversion.These features include items such as COMMANDassist,Remote Batching and Remote Client, Plant Watcher,Dispatch, Multiple Plant Setup, and more . . .

DDoo II nneeeedd CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh aattttaacchheedd ttoo aaNNeettwwoorrkk?? No. While COMMANDbatch does require a network connection between the operator PC and the system controls, connection to an office business network is notrequired. However, if you wish to take advantage of featuressuch as COMMANDassist or Plant Watcher then a connection to the Internet is required.

WWhhaatt iiss tthhee mmiiggrraattiioonn pprroocceessss??Prior to conversion, Command Alkon requests a copy of theexisting system data to prepare for the conversion. Our personnel will ensure that existing plant information (materials, mix designs, etc.) are converted and installed onthe new operator PC before shipment. Command Alkon willprepare batch personnel for training by ensuring that theyhave the knowledge and skills needed to operate in aWindows environment. Once these preparations are madethe conversion can be scheduled. The actual conversionincludes installation of new hardware; set up of LAN connections; configuration of incoming links, remote clientaccess and any new options; plus execution of test materialdrops. The Batch Support Specialist will also provide anintroduction to COMMANDbatch Basic System Operationsand assist with plant startup and performance tuning.

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� Automates bin replenishment, allowing staff to concentrateon more important and time critical operations in the plant

� “Keep Full” ensures the batch plant bins remain full, preventing production delays

COMMANDbatch is one component of an integrated suite of enterprise ready

products offered by Command Alkon. Our goal is to enable the enterprise wide

integration of systems to reduce or eliminate information and reporting gaps, render

“double entry” of unnecessary information, aim for completely paperless transactions,

and capture all billing and production data automatically. We do this all the while

ensuring that key personnel are always up-to-date on the company’s operation.www.commandalkon.com

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The system’s standard controls permit auto-matic monitoring and replenishment for up tosix bins. The system allows priority-firstreplenishment if materials from one under-ground storage bunker are required moreoften than others.

The system is designed to:

� determine the need for a material � rotate the turnhead or shuttle

conveyor into the correct position � turn on the feed belts as needed � open the correct feed gate on the

underground storage silo � monitor the process until filling is

complete

As the system sequences from one material tothe next the Automatic Bin Fill system will:

� close the gate in use on the underground storage � determine the turnheadpositioning

delay � open the feed gate for the next

material while ensuring the proper beltdelay to prevent cross contamination of material bins

Any or all materials can be manually overriddenat any time. An alarm indicator alerts the userto plant malfunctions. The emergency stopbutton halts all related plant motion in theevent of a belt break or other hazard.

“Command Alkon’s Automatic Bin Fill System fulfills a critical rolewithin Florida Rock’s Ready Mix production operations. TheAutomatic Bin Fill System consistently and reliably ensures theright materials are always available in the plant to meet our production needs. We own seven of them; more are sure to followin the future.”

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4

Command Alkon

R e a d y - M i x e d C n c r e t e P l a n t A u t m a t i n

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QQuuaalliittyy YYoouu CCaann CCoouunntt OOnn

SSuuppeerriioorr PPrroodduuccttiivviittyy && PPeerrffoorrmmaannccee

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RReemmoottee DDiiaaggnnoossttiiccss && TTrroouubblleesshhoooottiinngg

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BBeenneeffiittss ooff CCOOMMMMAANNDDbbaattcchh� Automatic notification of batch “out of tolerance” with

Plant Watcher, protects against out of specification loads from reaching the job site

� COMMANDbatch Freewheeling maximizes plant productivity and gets the first round in the morning out in less time

� Admix Designs (mix modifiers) reduce errors and QCmix maintenance time

� Remote Batching allows low volume plants to operate cost effectively

� Automated Remote Assistance, including online technician chat, keeps plant downtime to a minimum

� Early identification of plant batching issues or trends with Plant Performance Graphs

� Save time and reduce data entry errors by using the Mix Manager to adjust a large number of mixes at thesame time

� Automatic data archiving and backup reduces plant shutdown tasks and time while safeguarding data

� Available with Precision Water System for precise water management

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1800 International Park Dr., Suite 400Birmingham, AL 35243 USA

+1 (205) 879-3282Fax: +1 (205) 870-1405

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