WireKing said:
Whelen needs to wake up and start using multi colored diodes to compete with the new Fed Sig VISION SLR.
The Vision SLR does not use Muli-Colored Diodes either. 4 different diodes for 4 different colors.
I feel the DUO liberty is too expensive. Cramming the bar with twice as many diodes just to make the bar have dual colors is I think a waste of resources and puts the bar out of reach to many PDs. Why not use newer technology diodes that have multiple colors in them, thereby saving optical space in the reflector that can be used for more linear coverage. Don't get me wrong, the Rebel diodes you use are seriously intense and very efficient, but you guys should be looking more to the future and get back to being the market leader, not follower.
The DUO is less expensive than the Vision SLR. If this is out of reach for many PD's than what is your pitch for the Vision SLR? As another writer posted earlier, using a diode that has multiple colors means sacrificing output and warranty.
Federal is using specialized processors and circuit designs to gain an edge of flash pattern creation and control.
Whelen WeCAN much??? Whelen has had this system out now for years. Federal is just catching up. AND the new Vision SLR doesn't even have this feature. The Vision bar comes pre-programed from the factory with their patterns and that's all you get. Pick one and learn to love it.
Whelen needs to get their act together and come out with something sensational, like a four color "Freedom Plus" in a diamond shape with extended optics that result in better intersection coverage for example.
The Freedom and Liberty bars already provide SUBSTANTIAL intersection warning with their optics design. That's tested and proven.
From what I have read about the upcoming CanTrol system, I believe whelen has almost hit a home run. Having a control system that will not only activate outputs but will sync all the LEDs together (including the light bar) would be a step in the right direction. Furthermore, how about adding an optional wireless remote controller that will allow an officer to power down the siren or lights from outside the car. Maybe it could have a "distress" button that when pushed activates the siren and lights in a special tone and pattern to alert people that an officer is down.
How about integrating a small pod of Rebel's or other LEDs into the top of the bar that can be activated to signal air support as to the lead car in a chase or if the vehicle is stolen or the officer is in distress.
How about a four color surface mount light head in the form of a LINZ6 or a 500?
As another writer posted already, this new system IS awesome and IS still going through the engineering phase. Many tweaks will likely be made in the future to bring it to a level Whelen feels appropriate. As far as a distress signal, what would you use? How would a regular citizen know THAT tone versus a regular siren tone??
Putting a pod of Rebels on the top of the bar cuts down on its aerodynamic properties PLUS- using light to signal a chopper is far less effective than using a radio.
As an end user of Whelen products and other manufacturers products as well, I feel Whelen is still the market leader in terms of warning products and design. I will continue to give my business to any company who manufacturers their products in American first!
