Introduction
Pelco stands as the world's largest manufacturer of traffic and utility hardware, celebrated for its quality and customer-first approach. Whether upgrading a signal intersection or enhancing utility infrastructure, selecting the right hardware (traffic-oriented or utility-focused) is critical. Let's explore the key differences and help you match the right hardware to your project's needs.
Traffic Solutions: Built for Public Safety & Signal Infrastructure
Pelco's Traffic Solutions are designed to support traffic management and pedestrian safety. This range includes:
- Astro-Brac: Universal, all-axis adjustable brackets for signals, cameras, sensors; these rotate 360° and adapt to various mast arms or poles
- Free-Swinging Mounts: Span-wire hangers in aluminum or iron, with balance adjusters and tethers for wind resilience
- Rigid Side-of-Pole, Post-Top, and Tenon Mounts: Robust mounting systems tailored to specific pole configurations
- Sign Mountings and Camera Mounts: Designed for signage and video detection devices
- Backplates: Enhance signal visibility via reflective and flexible configurations
When to choose Traffic Solutions:
- You're installing, upgrading, or repairing traffic signals, cameras, or pedestrian controls.
- Environmental factors (e.g., wind, visibility) influence mounting durability.
- ADA compliance or regulatory visibility enhancements are required.
Utility Solutions: Engineered for Power Delivery and Infrastructure
Pelco's Utility Solutions provide rugged support components for power systems and utility equipment:
- Bracket & Equipment Mounts: Includes meter mounts, antenna mounts, conduit straps, transformer mounts, and more
- Arm & Pole Products: Features like luminaire arm clamps, hand hole covers, and pole caps
- Capacitor Bank Products: Specialized junction boxes designed for power distribution setups
Ideal scenarios for Utility Solutions:
- You're outfitting or maintaining utility poles, lighting systems, or metering installations.
- Custom or off-catalog hardware is needed to meet a project's specific demands.
- Theft deterrence or secure mounting for copper components is a priority.
Quick Comparison Table
| Use Case | Traffic Solutions | Utility Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Function | Traffic signals, signage, cameras | Utility infrastructure: lighting, metering, equipment mounting |
| Typical Products | Brackets, mounts, push buttons, backplates | Brackets, arm/pole hardware, junction boxes |
| Special Features | 360° rotation (Astro-Brac), winding protection, ADA compliance | ISO 9001 quality standards, theft deterrence, custom engineering |
| Best For | Signal installations, traffic hardware upgrades | Power or utility infrastructure projects |
Conclusion
Choosing between traffic and utility hardware ultimately comes down to your project's core objectives:
- Traffic-oriented hardware delivers precision, compliance, and visibility is ideal for signal and pedestrian environments.
- Utility hardware provides robust, code-compliant support for infrastructure components like lighting, metering, and power systems.
Need help determining the best fit for your application? Pelco's design and engineering team can assist with custom solutions that go beyond standard catalog offerings.