The Portable Control Unit's case is made of very strong lightweight polyethylene, has a full "O" ring seal, and is completely weatherproof . Both joysticks are fully programmable for either proportional or on/off operation. All toggle switches including the fire suppression switch are to military specifications and are double sealed. As an added safety feature the operator must lift the fire suppression switch and hold it forward for three seconds to activate it.

The "Select Status" switch allows the operator to select and display the Remote Vehicle monitoring function of his choice. This information may include hydraulic and pneumatic pressures and temperatures, various fluid levels, and a variety of engine monitoring functions.

The unique Deadman Button located in the joystick handle causes full service brakes to be applied when the operator releases his grip on the joystick. Releasing the deadman button also disables the forward/reverse and steer left/right functions.

Note: since the operation is software controlled, many customers have their own custom systems which operate differently from the standard unit described above.

The portable unit will not allow the operator to power-up the unit unless the joysticks and switches are all in the safe (off) position prior to activation. The LCD display will inform the operator which of the joysticks or switches is preventing the Portable Unit from being activated, should this occur. The Portable Control Unit includes a Tilt Detector switch, which automatically shuts off the unit if the operator falls, but does not react to normal operator movements. Two snap-in rechargeable batteries provide long operating periods.