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Introduction
The Bobcat Attachment Control Device (ACD) is an advanced control interface system designed to enhance the functionality and operator control over attachments on Bobcat skid steers, compact track loaders, and Toolcat work machines. It provides direct electrical control signals for attachment solenoids, allowing seamless integration and standardized operation of both Bobcat-manufactured and third-party attachments.
System Purpose and Functionality
The ACD translates digital or analog signals from the machine’s cab-mounted controls into direct 12-volt outputs that actuate attachments' hydraulic solenoids. This system enables operators to manage up to six solenoid functions via traditional joystick controls, ensuring that attachments can be operated intuitively without additional control boxes.
Key Features
Operators appreciate the ACD for its simplicity, reduced wiring complexity, and ability to standardize attachment control across different brands. Field technicians value the modular design allowing quick repairs and minimal downtime. Customers particularly benefit from the elimination of bulky control boxes on attachments, reducing weight and potential failure points.
Safety and Operational Notes
The Bobcat Attachment Control Device (ACD) modernizes and simplifies attachment management on Bobcat machinery, offering flexible, programmable, and reliable electrical control outputs. It facilitates broader attachment compatibility, reduces manufacturing and maintenance complexity, and improves operator control, representing a significant technological advancement in skid steer and toolcarrier equipment interfaces.
The Bobcat Attachment Control Device (ACD) is an advanced control interface system designed to enhance the functionality and operator control over attachments on Bobcat skid steers, compact track loaders, and Toolcat work machines. It provides direct electrical control signals for attachment solenoids, allowing seamless integration and standardized operation of both Bobcat-manufactured and third-party attachments.
System Purpose and Functionality
The ACD translates digital or analog signals from the machine’s cab-mounted controls into direct 12-volt outputs that actuate attachments' hydraulic solenoids. This system enables operators to manage up to six solenoid functions via traditional joystick controls, ensuring that attachments can be operated intuitively without additional control boxes.
Key Features
- Plug-and-Play Compatibility
The ACD supports multiple attachment types with standardized 7-pin or 14-pin connectors, designed to fit a wide range of attachment brands including Takeuchi, Gehl, Kubota, Mustang, Case, and Caterpillar.
- Controller Modules
The system includes a sealed black controller/converter unit mounted on the Bobcat, which converts the Bobcat’s digital signals into multiple 12-volt control outputs.
- Programmable Outputs
Momentary circuits can be programmed as latching if desired. This customization caters to different attachment requirements, with certain limitations on simultaneous latching functions dictated by system fuse and circuit constraints.
- Enhanced Connectivity for Third-Party Attachments
The ACD supports direct solenoid actuation for third-party attachments without requiring proprietary control boxes, simplifying installation and reducing complexity.
- ACD modules carry multiple output receptacles for 12-volt signals that directly control solenoids, with built-in power, communication bus, and status indicator LEDs.
- The interface is designed to minimize connection damage risks by using detachable Deutsch connectors, allowing easy cable servicing in the field.
- The 14-pin connector includes specific pins for power, ground, and solenoid control, adhering to Bobcat’s traditional pin layout.
- Installation of the ACD kits takes approximately 40 minutes and is designed for operator-friendly integration onto existing Bobcat machinery.
- It is compatible with all skid steer and track-type Bobcat loaders manufactured to date but not compatible with newer Versahandler 923 models due to different control architectures.
- The system supports standard Bobcat joystick control patterns ('ISO' or 'H'), extending attachment usability without control reconfiguration.
Operators appreciate the ACD for its simplicity, reduced wiring complexity, and ability to standardize attachment control across different brands. Field technicians value the modular design allowing quick repairs and minimal downtime. Customers particularly benefit from the elimination of bulky control boxes on attachments, reducing weight and potential failure points.
Safety and Operational Notes
- Proper programming and installation are critical to avoid electrical shorts or simultaneous activation of multiple latching circuits beyond system capabilities.
- Spark filtering components on new attachments reduce electromagnetic interference and improve system reliability.
- Solenoid: An electromechanical device controlling hydraulic valves or electrical circuits.
- Latching Circuit: A control circuit that maintains its state even after the initiating signal stops.
- Deutsch Connector: A high-quality, weatherproof electrical connector widely used in off-road equipment.
- Pin Layout/Configuration: The electrical diagram or assignment of functions to connector pins.
The Bobcat Attachment Control Device (ACD) modernizes and simplifies attachment management on Bobcat machinery, offering flexible, programmable, and reliable electrical control outputs. It facilitates broader attachment compatibility, reduces manufacturing and maintenance complexity, and improves operator control, representing a significant technological advancement in skid steer and toolcarrier equipment interfaces.
