The Kwant Controls levers are primarily used for electronic Remote Control of marine propulsion plants, which typically consist of a combination of engine / propeller / gearbox / clutch sub-assemblies. Remote Control is done from bridge level (WH Fwd, WH Aft, Port side wing or Stbd side wing). To achieve this, the levers are equipped with signal transmitters for engine RPM, clutch direction etc. that are wired to the propulsion plant control system. Telegraph Systems In case the Remote Control (RC) system is out of order, a switch over to telegraph mode can be made. The same levers are now used to send telegraph commands from the wheelhouse to the engine control room (ECR) or engine room (ER), whichever is selected as the current reply position. An alarm will sound until the command has been acknowledged. The propulsion plant is now remotely controlled from the ECR- or ER levers, or manually in case the ER lever has no remote control transmitters. Electrical Shaft Systems The purpose of an electrical shaft system is to synchronize the operating levers of all control units connected, mostly on the main bridge and bridge wings. It enhances the ease of use and increases safety in emergency situations, since control can be taken directly from any of the operating positions connected. Synchronization enables switching of operating position without changing the control signals for propulsion and/or heading (bump-less take-over). A second advantage is that the transmitters providing these signals are required on just one of the control units, since all levers will move simultaneously. To achieve synchronization, the control units are equipped with servomotors. Electronic circuitry will take care of driving these motors, as well as handling the take-over requests. Take-over can be achieved by means of illuminated pushbuttons, or by potential free contacts from other systems.