Handheld Industrial Remote Controls
Reviewed by: Jon Lowy, consulting engineer
Description
Handheld industrial remote controls are wireless input devices used to control machines and equipment without a direct physical connection. They utilize radio frequency (RF) signals, digital pulses, or infrared light to transmit commands from a handheld transmitter to a receiver. These devices often feature rugged or standard enclosures to protect sensitive components and are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Handheld industrial remote controls can include various types of transmitters such as keypads, paddles, pushbuttons, or toggle switches.
Working Principle
Handheld industrial remote controls operate by sending wireless signals from a transmitter to a receiver. The transmitter converts user inputs into RF signals, digital pulses, or infrared light, which are then transmitted to the receiver. The receiver decodes these signals and executes the corresponding commands on the controlled equipment. This wireless communication allows operators to control machinery from a distance, enhancing safety and flexibility. The use of RF technology, in particular, eliminates the need for line-of-sight operation and extends the range of control, making these devices highly useful in various industrial settings.
Applications
Handheld industrial remote controls are used in a wide range of applications. For example, in the construction industry, they are employed to control cranes, hoists, and winches, allowing operators to maneuver heavy loads safely and efficiently. In the aerospace sector, these remote controls are used for material handling and equipment operation. In agriculture, they control irrigation systems and machinery. Additionally, they are utilized in automation processes, data acquisition, and forestry operations. Specific examples include controlling cranes in shipyards and operating military equipment.
Advantages over other Industrial Remote Controls
Handheld industrial remote controls offer several advantages over other types of industrial remote controls. For instance, compared to pendant pushbutton stations, handheld remote controls provide greater mobility and safety by freeing the operator from being tethered to the equipment. This increased mobility can reduce cycle times and improve productivity. Handheld remote controls also allow a single operator to control multiple machines simultaneously, which is not feasible with wired controls. Furthermore, they are less prone to damage and downtime since they can be easily stored when not in use, unlike pendants that are constantly exposed to the work environment.
Limitations
Despite their advantages, handheld industrial remote controls have some limitations. They can be susceptible to interference from other wireless devices, which may affect their performance. Additionally, the initial cost of implementing a wireless remote control system can be higher compared to wired systems. The range of operation may also be limited by the power of the transmitter and the sensitivity of the receiver. In environments with high levels of electromagnetic interference, the reliability of wireless communication can be compromised.
Considerations
When selecting handheld industrial remote controls, several factors should be considered. Initial costs can be higher due to the need for both transmitters and receivers, as well as any necessary programming and customization. Operating expenses may include battery replacements and potential repairs. Durability is a key consideration, especially in harsh industrial environments; devices with rugged or weatherproof housings are preferable. Accuracy and reliability are critical, particularly in applications where precise control is required. Maintenance and replacement costs should also be factored in, as damaged transmitters or receivers may need to be replaced to ensure continuous operation.
from Columbus McKinnon Corporation
Columbus McKinnon is proud to introduce the latest addition to its Magnetek ® brand of radio remote control solutions: the ZLTX Radio Remote Controls. Now available for pre-order, ZLTX transmitters are designed to deliver the comfort of a handheld transmitter with the ruggedness of a bellybox. [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Features: Battery Powered; Weatherproof
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Frequency: 4.33E8
- Inputs / Outputs: 3
- Channels: 1
from Linx Technologies
The Compact Handheld transmitter is ideal for general remote control and command applications. As a part of our Holtek encoder-based OEM family, it has been pre-certified for FCC Part 15, Industry Canada, and European CE (433MHz only) compliance, reducing development costs and time to market. [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 4
from steute
Features/Options. Thermoplastic enclosure. sWave ® 2.4GHz wireless technology. Keypad with four function keys and LED display. Surrounding sealing (shock protection). Technical data. Standards. EN 60947-5-1; EN 61000-6-2;. EN 61000-6-3; EN 300440;. EN 301489; EN 60950. Enclosure. ABS graphite... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Keypad
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Frequency: 2.40E9 to 2.48E9
from Conductix-Wampfler
The ProteanTM HT Radio Remote Control is ideal for controlling hoist and trolley operation. It features two-speed push buttons with distinct position detents. There is a large mushroom E-stop switch with removable water-proof key. The radio functions in a range up to 330 feet and is available for... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter and Receiver Set
- Distance: 0.0 to 330
from Demag Cranes & Components
Applications. Wherever you use radio control systems to control cranes, hoists, machinery and installations, you benefit from much greater flexibility than with wire-connected controls. Benefits. Impact and temperature-resistant housing design. Integrated impact protection (DRC-10). Reliable radio... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 8
from Remote Control Technology
The 27 MHz radio frequency signal does not require line of sight. 6 independent channels for simple switching per receiver. Up to 2 miles of range. Replaces wire or conduit when repair or new installation is not possible or practical. Hammond steel enclosure for the receiver. Rugged aluminium... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Keypad
- Radio Technology: Transmitter and Receiver Set
- Inputs / Outputs: 6
from ZF Electronic Systems Pleasant Prairie, LLC
Wireless handheld remote control pendant features 4 discrete function keys. When actuated, each sends a unique, coded telegram to one or more compatible, easily-programmed Receivers. Features. Rugged ABS thermoplastic housing with surrounding shock protection. Equipped with lanyard keychain... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Keypad
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 4
from Canadian Industrial Radios & Controls (CIRC)
The Transmitter For Hazardous Areas. Characteristics. High-sensitivity two-step push button. Multiband Radio with Full-Duplex communication. Highly customizable. External removable EEPROM SIM module. Easy and fast maintenance. High resistance to impacts. Frequency management against interferences. [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 8
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Frequency: 4.33E8 to 8.69E8
- Inputs / Outputs: 3
- Channels: 1
from Linx Technologies
HS Compact Handheld RF Transmitter. The HS Compact Handheld RF transmitter is ideal for remote control and command applications that require the highest level of security. As a part of our HS encoder-based OEM family, it has been pre-certified for FCC Part 15, Industry Canada, and European CE... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 1 to 5
from steute
Features/Options. Thermoplastic enclosure. sWave ® wireless technology. Keypad with four function keys. Surrounding sealing (shock protection). Technical data. Standards. EN 60947-5-1; EN 61000-6-2, -6-3,. EN 61000-4-2, -4-20;. EN 301 489-1; EN 301 489-3;. EN 300 220-1; EN 300 220-2. Enclosure. [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Keypad
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Frequency: 8.68E8
from Conductix-Wampfler
K-Series Radio Remote Controls are a state-of-the-art radio control system. Check the many great features below! K1 has single-speed, eight button transmitter with E-stop, key switch, and On/Off. Up to 4 motion single speed control with 0 to 2 programmable auxiliary outputs, alarm output, mainline... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter and Receiver Set
- Features: Battery Powered
from Demag Cranes & Components
The safety and efficiency of a manually controlled crane is largely influenced by control equipment. Radio controls offer freedom of movement and improved safety. As the control system for Demag V-type cranes, the latest generation of the DRC range of equipment, the DRC D3 radio control system,... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 6
from Canadian Industrial Radios & Controls (CIRC)
Customisation For Hazardous Areas. Characteristics. High-sensitivity two-step push button. Multiband Radio with Full-Duplex communication. Highly customizable. External removable EEPROM SIM module. Easy and fast maintenance. High resistance to impacts. Frequency management against interferences. [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 12
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Frequency: 4.33E8
- Inputs / Outputs: 1
- Channels: 1
from Linx Technologies
HS Long-Range Handheld RF Transmitter. The HS Long-Range Handheld RF transmitter is ideal for remote control and command applications that require the highest level of security. As a part of our HS encoder-based OEM family, it has been pre-certified for FCC Part 15, Industry Canada, and European CE... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 1 to 8
from Conductix-Wampfler
K-Series Radio Remote Controls are a state-of-the-art radio control system. Check the many great features below! K3 has single-speed, 12 button transmitter with E-stop, key switch, and On/Off. Up to 5 motion single speed control with 2 to 7 programmable auxiliary outputs, A/B outputs, alarm output,... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter and Receiver Set
from Demag Cranes & Components
The DRC-DC radio control system is the ideal solution for optimum ergonomic operation of high-performance DC chain hoists. It offers much greater flexibility than cable-connected control systems and ensures that the operator can maintain a safe distance from the load at all times. Two sizes to... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 6 to 10
from Canadian Industrial Radios & Controls (CIRC)
The Classic For Lifting Applications. Characteristics. High-sensitivity two-step push button. Multiband Radio with Full-Duplex communication. Highly customizable. LCD display. External removable EEPROM SIM module. Easy and fast maintenance. High resistance to impacts. Frequency management against... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 8
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T20 - cost effective and easy to use. System T20 is suitable when you want to control an application by radio and need a maximum of 3 functions, where one function at a time is to be used. For example, when you want to open or close a door or turn on or off a lamp. With the T20 you have... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Frequency: 4.33E8
- Inputs / Outputs: 1
- Channels: 1
from Linx Technologies
Long-Range Handheld Transmitter. The Long-Range Handheld transmitter is ideal for general-purpose remote control and command applications that require longer transmission distances. As a part of our Holtek encoder-based OEM family, it has been pre-certified for FCC Part 15, Industry Canada, and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 8
from Conductix-Wampfler
The L10 Series Radio Remote Control is a 2-speed transmitter with eight buttons for control of 3-4 motions. FCC 310-320 Mhz AC models only. Each kit includes receiver, one or two transmitters, four batteries, strap, legend sheet for each transmitter, spare key, spare fuse kit, and instruction... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter and Receiver Set
- Frequency: 3.10E8 to 3.20E8
from Demag Cranes & Components
Applications. Wherever you use radio control systems to control cranes, hoists, machinery and installations, you benefit from much greater flexibility than with wire-connected controls. Benefits. Impact and temperature-resistant housing design. Integrated impact protection (DRC-10). Reliable radio... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld; Portable
- Interface Type: Joystick; Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 6
from Canadian Industrial Radios & Controls (CIRC)
Precision at Your Fingertips. Characteristics. High-sensitivity proportional push button. Multiband Radio with Full-Duplex communication. Highly customizable. LCD display. External removable EEPROM SIM module. Easy and fast maintenance. High resistance to impacts. Frequency management against... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 8
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Frequency: 4.33E8
- Inputs / Outputs: 1
- Channels: 1
from Linx Technologies
The HT Keyfob transmitter is ideal for general-purpose remote control and command applications requiring a small form factor transmitter. The small transmitter has a line of sight range of up to 750 feet (230m). It is available in 418 (standard) and 433.92MHz. It has been pre-certified for FCC Part... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 1 to 5
from Conductix-Wampfler
The L12 Series Radio Remote Control is a 2-speed transmitter with twelve buttons for control of up to 5 motions. FCC 310-320 Mhz AC models only. Each kit includes receiver, one or two transmitters, four batteries, strap, legend sheet for each transmitter, spare key, spare fuse kit, and instruction... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter and Receiver Set
- Frequency: 3.10E8 to 3.20E8
from Demag Cranes & Components
Whatever you need to control with a wireless system, you are always on the safe side with Demag DIR infrared control – for cranes, suspension monorails, transfer carriages or other materials handling equipment. The limited range of approx. 40 m between the transmitter and sensor(s) ensures... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 6 to 10
from Canadian Industrial Radios & Controls (CIRC)
Multiple Configurations on a Compact Transmitter. Characteristics. High-sensitivity two-step push button. Multiband Radio with Full-Duplex communication. Highly customizable. LCD display. External removable EEPROM SIM module. Easy and fast maintenance. High resistance to impacts. Frequency... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 12
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Channels: 1
- Frequency: 4.33E8
- Operating Temperature: -4 to 131
from Conductix-Wampfler
The L40 Series is a “belly box ” style transmitter unit with internal antenna, 5-speeds, and dual joystick. Up to 8 motions using A/B switches. All L-Series radios have FM transmitters, FCC 310-320 Mhz - AC receivers only. Each kit includes the receiver and one or two transmitters, four... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter and Receiver Set
- Frequency: 3.10E8 to 3.20E8
from Canadian Industrial Radios & Controls (CIRC)
Precision and Total Customisation. Characteristics. High-sensitivity proportional push button. Multiband Radio with Full-Duplex communication. Highly customizable. LCD display. External removable EEPROM SIM module. Easy and fast maintenance. High resistance to impacts. Frequency management against... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter
- Number of Transmitters: 12
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Channels: 1
- Frequency: 4.33E8
- Operating Temperature: -4 to 131
from Conductix-Wampfler
The L8 Series Radio Remote Control is ideal for applications that require three single-speed motions, such as a hoist, trolley, and bridge motions for an overhead crane. The L8 is ruggedly built and features a large mushroom E-stop switch and removable water-proof key. The radio functions within a... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter and Receiver Set
- Distance: 0.0 to 330
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Channels: 1
- Frequency: 4.33E8
- Operating Temperature: -4 to 131
from Conductix-Wampfler
Economical ProteanTM Radio Remote Controls provide safe and reliable operation of many types of electrical machinery and crane controls. These FM radios have internal antennas for a 330 foot (100 meter) range and many advanced security and reliability features. Kits include one receiver and either... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter and Receiver Set
- Number of Transmitters: 4
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Channels: 1
- Frequency: 4.33E8
- Operating Temperature: -4 to 131
from Conductix-Wampfler
Our solutions portfolio covers a wide range of radio remote controls. We offer basic controls with direct communication and interactive controls with 2-way communication. For different environments and safety requirements we provide industrial radio remote controls with safety levels up to ATEX SIL... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Interface Type: Pushbutton
- Radio Technology: Transmitter and Receiver Set
- Transmitter Interface: Digital
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Channels: 1
- Frequency: 4.33E8
- Operating Temperature: -4 to 131
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Channels: 1
- Frequency: 4.33E8 to 8.69E8
- Operating Temperature: -4 to 131
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Channels: 1
- Frequency: 4.33E8 to 8.69E8
- Operating Temperature: -4 to 131
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Channels: 1
- Frequency: 4.33E8 to 8.69E8
- Operating Temperature: -4 to 131
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Channels: 1
- Frequency: 4.33E8 to 8.69E8
- Operating Temperature: -4 to 131
from TELE RADIO AMERICA LLC
System T60 - a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. With the T60 system, Tele Radio is giving you a wide and varied product range of user-friendly and price worthy radio remote controls. The functionality of the T60 transmitters is as varied and... [See More]
- Form Factor: Handheld
- Channels: 1
- Frequency: 4.33E8 to 8.69E8
- Operating Temperature: -4 to 131