FMS began manufacturing mechanical flashers in the late 1950's. We started with the simple on-off units, but quickly expanded the line to include flashers that perform a wide variety of functions including chasing, spelling, scintillating, and other effects. The design and technology used on mechanical flashers is no longer new, yet they continue to offer distinct advantages because of their design simplicity and reliable long term performance under varying operating conditions. All units are UL and cUL listed and operate on standard 115 volt current. Motors are available in 220 volt by special order. Please call, fax or e-mail us to discuss any flasher application problems or questions.

Model 1 Flashers

The Model 1 flashers are the most basic in the FMS line. The units are powered by a synchronous motor that drives one or two cams at a constant speed of 5 seconds per revolution, or 12 revolutions per minute. The cams in turn open and close contact points. Actual flashing speed is a function of the cam cut. For example, a 4 lobe cam would yield on-off action 48 times per minute. Several cam cuts are available from stock, and custom cam cuts are available per the customer's request.

Model 22 Flashers

The Model 22 has proven itself over many years to be a very reliable and economical way to add on-off, alternating, or color changing effects to a sign or other device. Features include cams and points out in the open for easy replacement or adjustment. The ball bearing mounted, sealed cam shaft with large fly wheel makes for years of smooth, quiet, maintenance-free service.

Model_1-A2
Model_22

Contacts on the Model 22 are rated to handle 15 amps, except on the chaser action units whose contacts are rated at 10 amps due to the high flashing speed. Model 22 High Output flashers are constructed with extra insulation and in high initial draw applications such as flashing ballasts.

115 Volt Motor, 50/60 cycle. UL and cUL listed. Also available in 220 volt.

Chasers

Model 33 Chasers

Model 33 chasers are most commonly used on flashing incandescent bulb signs where "dark spots" chase around a border or directional motion is incorporated into a field of bulbs. The Model 33 can be used to chase neon, through it must be incorporated on the primary side of any transformers.

Model_33Chaser

Like all FMS flashers, Model 33 chasers are ruggedly constructed to provide years of smooth, quiet, trouble free services. The Model 33 chaser features molded terminal blocks, permanently lubricated bearings, and all corrosion resistant surfaces. Contacts on the Model 33 chasers are rated to handle 10 amps each and are accessible for easy replacement.

115 Volt Motor, 50/60 cycle. UL and cUL listed. Also available in 220 volt.

Spellers

Model 33 Spellers

Model 33 spellers are designed for applications where electric circuits are to be flashed in custom sequences such as with spelling or other animation. Variable in both cycle speed and cam cut, Model 33 spellers are some of the most versatile sign controllers available. The flashing sequence on each Model 33 speller is custom made to customers specifications. The units can be built with as few as one circuit, or as many as necessary to accommodate the requested flashing sequence. Neon can be controlled by installing the speller on the primary side of transformers.

Model_33Speller

To aid customers in ordering Model 33 Spellers, please refer to our speller sequence charts. "Cycle" refers to the time required for the flashing action to go through its complete performance and start to repeat. "Cycle time" is expressed in seconds. "Circuit" refers to the current controlled by one cam and one set of contact points. The time on for a circuit is indicated by a solid square, the time off by a blank square. The charts show some of the more common sequences, but nearly any sequence can be constructed. Complete your own chart for a custom sequence. Call, fax, or e-mail us to discuss any sequencing problems.

115 Molt Motor, 50/60 cycle. UL and cUL listed. Also available in 220 volt.

Model 55 High Voltage Flasher

Our Model 55 is specifically designed to distribute the secondary voltage of a neon transformer. The unit will handle from 7,500 to 15,000 volts and distribute this high voltage to up to 8 circuits from a single transformer. For this reason the Model 55 is occasionally referred to as a "neon animator".

The Model 55 is housed in a stainless steel cabinet with insulation of electrical quality glazed porcelain. The magnetic speed adjusted can vary the flashing speed from 35 to 300 plashes per minute.

The Model 55 is a rather strong generator of Electro Magnetic Interference (EMI), sometimes referred to as Radio Frequency Interference (RFI). Various precautions can be observed to significantly reduce this interference, but it may not be totally eliminated. This potential problem should be considered when selecting installation locations.

Model_55

Interruption if high voltage current causes small amounts of ozone gas to be produced. The continual interruption of high voltage by the Model 55 can cause rather high concentrations of ozone gas to accumulate in insufficiently ventilated areas. Concentrated ozone gas has a very corrosive effect on certain materials. Brass, copper, and most types of paint on metal are among those materials adversely effected. Porcelain, glass, pure aluminum, and stainless steel are several materials that resist the corrosive effects of ozone gas. Install the Model 55 in well vented areas which will allow the ozone to dissipate.

115 Volt Motor, 50/60 Cycle. UL and cUL listed. Also available in 220 Volt.

Model 66 High Speed Scintillator
Or Chaser

The Model 66 is generally used to create a scintillating or "twinkling" action. These units are constructed of heavy duty materials to stand up under constant use with heavy loads.

The Model 66 features a simple wiring design for easy installation, and three shielded ball bearings which require no maintenance. As on all FMS flashers, the contacts are formed of a special silver alloy that performs better than pure silver.

Model_66

The flashing speed of the Model 66 can be easily adjusted by removing motor shades using just a screw driver. The flasher is supplied with a shade on each motor, and as shades are removed the flashing speed decreases. When operating with shades on (430 flashes per circuit per minute) the contacts on all Model 66 units are rated at 12.5 amps each. When operating with shades off (250 flashes per circuit per minute) the contact on the 3 and 4 point units are rated at 20 amps each, while the contacts on the 5 and 6 point units are rated at 17.5 amps each.

115 Volt Motor, 50/60 cycles. UL and cUL listed. Also available in 220 volt.

 

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