Radio operator dials in to GAL Power Systems for emergency power solution

When Newcap Radio went looking for a backup power system for a new broadcast studio and tower location in Ottawa, the company sought a generator provider that would do it all - installation, commissioning, training, and service. After all, Newcap already had its hands full bringing the new location to life and didn't want to have to worry about the details of the backup power system as well.

"Turn-key - that's what we needed," says Chris MacLaurin, Chief Engineer, Newcap. "Someone to come in, assess our needs, plan the installation, install the system, and essentially let me know when it was done. I didn't have time to worry about the logistics of coordinating different suppliers and contractors to bring it all together. I was busy bringing a new facility online. We needed a provider who knew what they were doing and could get the job done right."

Backup power is crucial to Newcap's operations. The company's two Ottawa radio stations - New Alternative station Live 88.5 (88.5 FM) and Top 40 station Hot 89.9 (89.9 FM) - need to be pumping audio content 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, regardless of whether Ottawa's electricity grid is providing power or not.

"We're required to stay on the air, to tell people what's happening if the national capital region is in an emergency situation," MacLaurin says. "Revenue is a factor as well. If we're not broadcasting, we're not making money. When things are silent around here, that's when we start to worry."

GAL Power Systems had the expertise and the range of services required. The company offers a wide variety of generators from numerous manufacturers, each with characteristics best suited to unique customer situations. GAL reviewed the mechanical and technical drawings that Newcap had commissioned from an engineering firm, and quickly assessed that the station operator would need a 60 kilowatt generator set.

"The system we installed for Newcap is an advanced piece of machinery," says Mark Hamilton, Project Manager, GAL. "Backup power solutions have come a long way in the last decade. The Newcap generator has an advanced engine control system making it much more environmentally friendly by reducing fuel consumption and engine emissions. Developments in generator enclosures help engines like this one run quieter than ever and new computer-based control systems simplify testing and documentation of generator efficiency - all from a laptop or desktop PC."

The implementation saw GAL manage the generator installation, as well as coordinate the ancillary requirements of a safe, secure backup power solution.

"We knew the client needed end-to-end service," Hamilton says. "We took care of everything from pouring the concrete for the generator footing and erecting the fence to secure the solution, to providing the training, and of course we performed the pre-production tests. By doing it all, we allowed Newcap to focus on commissioning the new station location, while we took care of the backup power solution."

The new generator went live in the winter of 2007, and since then Newcap has breathed a sigh of relief more than once.

"We've had it come on a few times since it was installed, because of power outages that were long enough that our Uninterruptible Power Supply was in danger of being depleted," MacLaurin says. "It ran quietly, and for employees using the studio equipment and content computers, it was as if the power hadn't stopped at all. It's good to know your systems are protected from power outages, especially when you can't afford to shut things down when the power goes off."

About GAL Power Systems

Founded in 1985, GAL Power Systems is the premier emergency backup specialist in Ontario and Quebec. GAL's success is based on the fundamentals of a strong work ethic coupled with superior customer satisfaction. GAL's persistent focus on meeting and exceeding customer expectations has allowed the company to emerge as an industry leader in emergency power solutions. For more information about GAL, visit www.galpower.com, or call 1-800-619-4219.
  

Product Specifications

Make: Katolight

Model: SED60FPJ4T2

Capacity 60kW, 120/208V

Features:

• 105 gallon sub-base fuel tank
• KDGC 500 microprocessor control panel
• 200A automatic transfer switch with bypass