Yak, MITO Expand Switch System
Yak Power and MITO Corp. have released an expanded version of their innovative, patent pending, digital switching system designed for RVs.
This new 14-circuit system builds upon their recently introduced eight-circuit design that Paddling Magazine named Best Rigging and Outfitting Product at their recent Industry Awards. The new 14 circuit system is specifically designed with the demands of the RV industry in mind and features eight switched zones for lighting, pumps, fans, or other ON/OFF-type control, as well as, six momentary type switches for controlling forward/reversing type appliances like slides, awnings, or jacks.
Yak Power was first developed as an OEM switching solution for Ascend kayaks built by Tracker Marine and exclusively sold through all Bass Pro Shops/Cabela’s stores. Bass Pro/Cabelas and many Independent Outfitters also sell retail versions of the Yak Power product to the growing number of kayak fishermen and outdoor enthusiasts who likewise enjoy camping as part of their recreational activities.
“The demographics are very similar, and being RV owners ourselves, we saw the need for a better, more technologically current switching solution,” said Jon Jordan, president and CEO, Yak Power.
The switching system is designed for ease of use, scalability, and OEM integration by using proprietary wireless technology that eliminates the need for in-wall switches and simplifies the total amount of wire required to install the system. The system has the capacity to include up to 5 wireless keypads that can be located throughout the RV to maximize user control and convenience.
In addition, the system features wireless forward/reversing motor control technology that allows OEM builders to minimize large gauge wire runs. And, the system will come with a free downloadable app for both iOS and Android that will allow users to operate the system from their mobile device including running out slides, awnings, or jacks from outside the RV.
“Rigging an RV for a simple, easy to install, and scalable switching system presented very similar challenges to those we faced in developing the original system for Ascend. Having resolved those challenges and having already understood the production line efficiencies needed by OEM builders, we simply took into consideration the different use requirements for an RV and adapted our design,” Jordan said.
The company has also partnered with WiFiRanger to be their first “Hey Ranger Ready” solution. The arrangement allows a drop-in module to the Yak Power Digital Switching System that makes it entirely controllable via secure and private voice commands issued by the new WiFiRanger AI Universal Assistant.
“The Yak Power systems unique and flexible wireless architecture allowed us to quickly develop ‘skills’ to engage all the switching components from our AI Universal Assistant, making its already simple use, even more convenient,” Kelly Hogan, CEO, WiFiRanger.
MITO provides OEM integration for both Yak Power and Hey Ranger.