How It Works

Electronic Brake Systems

Wireless Electro-Hydraulic Pump Systems

The Wireless Electronic / Hydraulic Actuator takes an input from the in cab brake controller. The Controller Pendant plugs in to the cigar lighter and is not a permanent installation. The controller`s output is sent down the cigar lighter cord and through the vehicles electrical system and out to the trailer via the trailer running lights. This makes it necessary to turn on the lights when moving.

This signal is received by the microcontroller in the Actuator unit and is converted into a variable hydraulic pressure output by a motor and pump assembly. The brakes translate this pressure to mechanical braking force in the trailer.

When in the brake released state the hydraulic fluid returns to the reservoir to be ready for the next brake application.

The portability of the pendant type Carlisle XL Commander controller is a great benefit if the trailer is to be towed by many different vehicles. The lack of complicated installation is another reason to choose wireless .

The battery is used for break away function and is sized by the manufacturer to keep brakes applied for 15 minutes in the event of a breakeaway condition. In the wireless systems it is also used to provide power during service braking. It is then recharged by the marker light circuit.


other types of units electro-hydraulic units