For many industrial and commercial projects, the diesel generator must communicate with a building management system, SCADA panel, or remote monitoring device. The RFQ should translate that requirement into specific signals, terminals, controller functions, and acceptance tests.
What buyers should know first
Dry contacts are useful because they provide simple status or alarm signals without requiring the external system to understand every controller detail. However, the purchaser still needs to decide which signals matter, whether remote start is required, and how alarms will be tested before handover.
Signals to define
| Signal area | Typical purpose | RFQ detail to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| Generator running | Shows that the set has started and is available. | Normally open or normally closed contact preference. |
| Common alarm | Alerts the remote system that action is needed. | Alarm list and reset responsibility. |
| Common shutdown | Reports serious faults that stop the generator. | Which shutdowns are grouped or separated. |
| Low fuel or fuel system | Supports standby readiness and refueling planning. | Tank-level signal, sensor scope, and alarm threshold. |
| Remote start | Allows ATS, BMS, or SCADA start command. | Start signal type, voltage-free contact, and fail-safe logic. |
In practice
The most common integration issue is writing ?remote monitoring required? without listing the signals. One project may only need generator running and common alarm. Another may need remote start, common shutdown, low fuel, battery charger fault, mains failure, ATS position, and communication protocol support.
Useful related checks include remote start signal checks for BMS projects, control cable and signal terminal checks, and control panel checks for remote monitoring projects. For an automatic-start product example, review the 20kW Cummins silent diesel generator set with auto start and ATS option.
Before requesting a quotation
- List every alarm and status signal expected by the remote system.
- Confirm normally open or normally closed contact preference.
- State whether the generator must accept a remote start command.
- Ask for controller model, terminal list, and wiring diagram.
- Define factory test and site test steps for each signal.
Questions purchasers often ask
Are dry contacts the same as remote monitoring?
No. Dry contacts provide basic signal outputs. Remote monitoring may also require communication hardware, protocols, software, or a gateway.
Should every alarm be a separate contact?
Not always. Some projects use common alarm and common shutdown. Critical sites may request selected alarms separately.
Can the BMS start the generator?
It can if the controller and wiring are configured for a suitable remote start signal. The operating sequence should be reviewed with the electrical designer.
What should be tested before handover?
Test remote start, running status, common alarm, common shutdown, low fuel where provided, and alarm reset behavior.
What information prevents integration delays?
A terminal list, wiring diagram, signal schedule, controller manual, and defined responsibility between generator supplier and controls contractor.