In heavy equipment manufacturing, cameras, as part of complete safety systems, are critical for OEMs to enhance operator visibility, prevent collisions, and meet stringent safety regulations in harsh environments—reducing accidents by up to 40% according to industry studies. These systems provide real-time feeds for blind spots, boosting productivity while minimizing downtime. But what camera is best for your machine’s control system? And what are the first steps to take when integrating your selected control into the machine? Here are the primary considerations and things to dig into as your start the process.

Types of Cameras

• SOME/IP: Scalable Service-Oriented Middleware over IP. ISO 17215 like the IQAN™ SV camera from Parker Hannifin.
• RTSP: Real Time Streaming Protocol. Convoy Technology’s 1910 camera is a good example.

SOME/IP cameras offer easier setup with all configurations—resolution, framerate, mirror/flip—handled directly in IQAN Design per display page, ideal for mobile machinery safety and visibility.

RTSP requires pre-configuring the camera’s GUI for settings and defining unique URL paths, with risks of cropping on mismatched display sizes.

Essential Connection and Network Setup

Your camera connection options will depend on the display. You can connect one camera directly to IQAN MD4/MD5 Ethernet ports (keep in mind that an MD5 has one port, while an MD4 has two). You can use switches for multiples, either managed or unmanaged. While unmanaged are a lower cost, all devices must have the same IP address. Managed switches do not require you to configure the IP address on the devices, but it is a bit more costly.

If you are using a SOME/IP camera, after plugging it into your display, you can configure everything, including the size of the video and orientation, within the IQAN application. If you’re using an RTSP camera, everything must be configured within the camera itself. Also, when setting up the RTSP, you need to define the correct URL path , or it won’t present the image. That URL path may be listed in the camera manual, or you may need to use a VLC viewer to find it.

Video Resolutions and Optimization Tips

One important thing to keep in mind, especially with newer displays, like the MD5 display which can be over 12 inches wide, display size will play a role in how the camera feed is programmed. Also how the video feed shows up on your display depends on which type of camera you’re using.

For SOME/IP cameras, within IQAN, the width and heigh of your camera feed can be linked to the dimensions property, but keep in mind that there are limits for each individual camera. For example, the IQAN-SV camera only supports up to 800×600. Framerate, bitrate, mirror and flip are also set in those channel properties.

Similarly, for RSTP cameras, width and height are used to define the size of the video feed, but the video is justified to the upper lefthand corner of the display. Also, when you change that feed size from its default, it doesn’t dynamically scale. So if you use a larger size the camera resolution will result in a black border along the right and bottom edges, while a smaller size than the camera resolution will result in the image being cropped. Another note to keep in mind is that if your camera supports multiple streams, you’ll need to create multiple cameras with unique paths.

Master IQAN Cameras with GS Global Resources Training

GS Global Resources delivers hands-on IQAN training taught by our in-house experts, covering camera integration, different software in the IQAN suite, troubleshooting, and so much more. Interested in learning more about cameras and how to build complete safety systems into your machine’s control system? Register now for our next session.

The post Choosing the Right Camera for Heavy Equipment first appeared on GS Global Resources.

Ideal for heavy loads, precise movement, and smooth operation, low speed high torque (LSHT) motors deliver strong turning force at slower speeds. They also can simplify machinery by reducing or eliminating gearboxes, which can lower maintenance, space needs, and noise. As the leading integrator for many innovative hydraulics suppliers, GS Global Resources can identify which components are best suited for your application, meeting both your technical specifications and other business objectives, and seamlessly integrate them into your machine. One industry proven example of these LSHT motors is Parker Hannifin‘s  Torqmotor™ series, a compact, durable solution, ideal for both mobile equipment and industrial machinery.

Key Features

• High Torque Output: Up to 19,000 lb-in in heavy-duty TGK models, with series like TB (4,700 lb-in), TG (13,100 lb-in), and TH handling pressures up to 4,000 psi intermittent.

• Superior Side-Load Capacity: Dynamic loads up to 16,000 N (TG series) or 6,000 lb (TH flange mounts), thanks to robust bushings and shaft seals.

• No Case Drain Needed: Innovative high-pressure shaft seal and continuous oil flow for cooling and lubrication, reducing wear and simplifying installation.

• Displacement Range: 36–392 cm³/rev across TE, TB, TG, TF, and TH series, with speeds up to 930 RPM.

Benefits

Another benefit that both reduces component cost and minimizes lead point, Torqmotors eliminate gearboxes for direct drive, cutting noise, vibration, and maintenance while boosting efficiency. They offer built-in wear compensation, high efficiency under load, and trouble-free service in harsh conditions, extending equipment life in many applications like agriculture, construction, and material handling.

GS Global Resources has decades of proven experience in hydraulics, engineering support, and complete custom solutions for heavy equipment. And our long-standing partnership with Parker Hannifin, for everything from hydraulics to controls and IQAN software, allows us to best support OEMs utilizing their components. Contact us today to see if these LSHT motors would be a good option for your machine.

The post Product Spotlight: LSHT Torqmotors™ first appeared on GS Global Resources.

When a machine is not responding as expected, engineers and service teams need fast, reliable ways to trace the problem. In IQAN™ Design by Parker Hannifin, there are several practical troubleshooting methods that help heavy equipment OEMs diagnose machine behavior, isolate faults, and support field service more efficiently.

Why troubleshooting structure matters

For heavy equipment OEMs, troubleshooting is not just about finding a bad signal. It is about moving quickly from symptom to root cause while keeping machine configurations, service access, and software structure manageable. IQAN Design supports that workflow by giving engineers multiple ways to organize and inspect machine logic, including measure groups, live multimeter-style checking, and component navigation.

Measure groups: organized troubleshooting by function

One of the most useful ways to troubleshoot a common or repeat issue in IQAN Design is through measure groups. These let engineers collect related channels into a single view so a technician can monitor a machine function such as lift, tilt, hydraulics, joysticks, or sensors without digging through the full program.

Measure groups are especially valuable when they are built ahead of time for repeat use, which is why they are primarily used for a function group or other anticipated issue. An OEM can create a simple operator-facing group with only a few key signals, or a deeper service group with more detailed channels for advanced fault finding. They can also be configured with visibility rules so the right channels appear based on machine configuration, module selection, or enabled options.

Multimeter mode: live, flexible diagnosis

For issues that are not fully understood, IQAN’s multimeter-style workflow gives engineers a faster, more flexible way to inspect channels live. Unlike a prebuilt measure group, the multimeter approach lets users add and remove signals on the fly while they are actively troubleshooting.

This is especially helpful when a field technician is on the phone with a programmer or service engineer and needs to quickly test several signals at once. It supports a process-of-elimination approach: add the channels, observe behavior, remove what is not needed, and narrow down the fault without changing the underlying machine program.

Component navigator: trace the logic backward

The component navigator is another helpful tool when a machine output is not behaving correctly. Instead of only looking at signals in isolation, it helps engineers trace the control path backward from an output to the inputs and conditions that influence it.

This is especially useful in complex applications where logic is spread across many modules and function groups. If a lift function is not working, for example, the navigator can help reveal whether the issue is related to the joystick, seat switch, E-stop logic, or another upstream condition. For engineers who did not write the original program, that backward tracing can save a significant amount of time.

Choosing the right method

The best troubleshooting method depends on the problem and the stage of diagnosis. Measure groups are strongest when you want a repeatable, preplanned troubleshooting setup. The multimeter is best when you need something live and flexible right now. The component navigator is ideal when you need to understand how one signal is affected by many logic conditions.

A smarter service strategy for OEMs

For heavy equipment OEMs, the real advantage of IQAN Design troubleshooting is not just speed. It is the ability to build a machine application that is easier to support in the field, easier to document, and easier to diagnose across multiple configurations. GS Global Resources is the leading integrator of IQAN by Parker Hannifin and our in-house experts have experience programming in a wide range of industries to optimize both machine control and communication for OEMs. Interested in utilizing IQAN in your machines? Contact us today to find out how we can help, or sign up for our next IQAN training session to learn from the experts and get program specific tips and insight.

The post Top 3 Troubleshooting Methods in IQAN™ Design first appeared on GS Global Resources.

Even within their primary industry or type of machinery, for certain end users or final applications heavy equipment OEMs may be asked to meet very specific requirements and technical specifications, such as machinery used in military applications. Trying to both meet these different parameters while still maintaining the expected machine performance, reliability, and other important features can be a challenge. In a recent project, GS Global Resources was tasked with modifying a towing system we had created for an existing commercial tow truck OEM customer, adapting proven commercial designs for a demanding military application mounted on a tank chassis.​

Innovative Tank-Mounted Design

This unique project features a fully functional towing boom integrated directly onto the rear of an actual tank—complete with treads, turret gun, and camouflage finish—setting it apart from standard truck chassis builds. The system retains core commercial towing capabilities, including a rotating boom for load pickup and rear stabilizers that deploy downward only, leveraging the tank’s low center of gravity and heavy weight despite its compact footprint.​

Rigorous Military-Grade Compliance

To meet stringent military standards, the engineering team conducted comprehensive EMI testing for radiated emissions and immunity, alongside short circuit and reverse polarity protection validations at a specialized test house in Grand Rapids. Every component, sensor, light, and handle was rigorously “zapped” in an antenna-equipped chamber to ensure resilience under extreme conditions.​

Rugged, High-Reliability Components

The build incorporates military specification 38999 Type III connectors—hardened and EMI-resistant with protective backshells—alongside fully shielded, waterproof harnesses using home-run wiring to minimize splices. Additional filtering and military grade heat shrink or cable shrouds provide complete environmental protection, far exceeding commercial norms.​

Advanced Control Integration

A side-mounted control panel enables operators to manage lights, compressor activation, and key circuits via selector switches. The hydraulic system features a radio remote control for precise valving and boom operations, with seamless interfacing to the tank chassis for safety checks like outrigger positioning and boom stowage before movement.​

At GS Global Resources, we’re proud to support OEM partners in translating existing commercial innovations to fit into various other industries or applications. Contact us to explore how our engineering expertise can support the next version of your machine.

The post Customizing Heavy Equipment to Meet Military Requirements and Specifications first appeared on GS Global Resources.

Numerous innovations were highlighted by OEMs at ConExpo 2026, including machine electrification and ways to implement AI. But specifically looking at heavy equipment operator cabs, what were some trends that seemed popular across the board with new machines? A group of GS Global Resources engineers were at the show and brought back some key takeaways for the future of cab design and how OEMs can realistically implement some of these principles now.

Operator Cab Simplification Trends

Minimalist operator cabs were prevalent at ConExpo, consolidating switches, buttons, and displays to boost operator focus and eliminate sight line interruptions wherever possible. Many cabs had larger single screens, some as wide as 20–24-inch models, and many of them had camera feeds stitched together for bird’s-eye machine views. More cabs also featured heads up displays, also like the automotive industry, allowing operators to get critical machine information without looking away from their working area. Another new way to alert operators to a machine issue, LED light strips along cab pillars that flash different colors for different alerts eliminate the need for operators to look at the display or investigate each message.

Cost-Effective Thermoforming for Consoles

OEMs showcased multi-part thermoformed assemblies as a budget-friendly alternative to costly injection molding for operator consoles in heavy equipment. Layered thermoformed plastic sheets create dimensional, two-tone aesthetics, like glued multi-panel designs mimicking premium looks, while avoiding high tooling expenses.

Ergonomic Joysticks and Armrest Innovations

Several cabs and seats featured horizontal joysticks, with thumb-side buttons, similar to ergonomic computer mice, as well as low-spring tension to cut operator fatigue in prolonged heavy equipment operation. There were also a few pneumatic-assisted flip-up armrests, allowing for improved ease of access for operators with a smoother lift.

Advanced Cab Mechanisms and Doors

A few features were seen around the show that primarily focused on cab entry and exit. Linear actuators were utilized by sliding doors to have a smoother feel. Some of those doors also featured a tuck-away design. Also emphasizing the trend toward easier cab access, egress windows utilized simple push-buttons, giving operators a quicker, more reliable emergency exit.

GS Global Resources has a wide range of experience across multiple industries, including construction, rail, forestry, crane, utility and more. We are constantly investigating new technologies and manufacturing techniques to create cabs that optimize the operator experience, while still prioritizing safety and machine functionality. Let’s start future-proofing your machine cab. Contact us today to start the conversation.

The post ConExpo 2026 Trends: Next-Gen Operator Cabs & Controls for Heavy Equipment OEMs first appeared on GS Global Resources.

If you didn’t make it to Las Vegas for CONEXPO 2026, or just didn’t make it to the South Hall, this quick recap puts you right inside the GS Global Resources booth.

Our team showcased how we simplify complex machines with integrated hydraulic, electronic, and cab solutions designed to boost performance and uptime for heavy equipment OEMs. From smart load distribution and advanced control systems to fully engineered operator cabs and safety systems, visitors could see how GSGR pulls everything together into one cohesive, production-ready solution.

Beyond our booth, GSGR custom components and innovations were riding along on leading OEM machines all over the show floor—quietly powering better control, more comfort, and more connected equipment. Hit play to see how our systems showed up across the industry at CONEXPO 2026, and imagine what this level of integration could do for your next machine program.

The post What you missed at ConExpo 2026 first appeared on GS Global Resources.

Heavy equipment engineers know the pain of upgrading HMIs: years of fine-tuned display pages, diagnostic layouts, and operator workflows needing to be redone to accommodate the size of a new display.  IQAN™ Design 7 by Parker Hannifin changes that by enabling drag-and-drop migration of display pages from legacy MD4 units to modern MD5 displays, with automated scaling and bulk image replacement that preserves your intellectual investment in machine interfaces.

How IQAN Design 7 handles display page migration

IQAN Design 7.05 introduced native tooling to move display pages between masters of different sizes, such as MD4‑7 to MD5‑10 or MD5‑8, with built‑in scaling options. After adding the new MD5 display to the application and assigning the appropriate address, engineers can drag one or more pages from the old display container to the new, then choose how to scale: no scaling, scale to width, scale to height, or scale both. Most controls are automatically resized and repositioned; SVG‑based system graphics scale cleanly, while bitmap images (BMP, PNG, JPG) require an additional image‑workflow step.​

The tool also allows bulk export of image groups from the project so all graphic assets for a keypad, background, or icon set can be resized offline and then replaced in one operation, instead of manually hunting down each instance. By maintaining file names and folder structure, the bulk “Replace images” feature can re‑inject an entire scaled image set so that pages already migrated to the MD5 automatically pick up the updated graphics. This combination of drag‑and‑drop page transfer and batch image replacement is what turns MD4‑to‑MD5 migration from a redraw project into a controlled engineering change.

What still requires engineering judgment

While the tools significantly accelerate the process, this display migration process is not a one‑click operation; some engineering judgment and cleanup are still required. For example, properties of the display container—font sizes, menu themes, and color themes—do not automatically transfer and must be re‑applied on the new MD5 to achieve the desired look and readability. Controls that reference internal channels generally preserve their links when the application logic is moved by selecting all objects in the master and dragging them to the new MD5; however, button actions, camera mappings, and some I/O references often need to be re‑linked and verified.​

Image gradients and more complex composed graphics may not scale proportionally with their surrounding controls, making it necessary to rescale and adjust those elements in an external editor before running the replace‑images workflow. Finally, any logs or diagnostic records hosted on the original master must be moved over, and the system should be validated with “Check project” to catch missing references or invalid module assignments before field deployment.

Working with an experienced systems integrator

As a long‑time Parker Hannifin IQAN partner, the GS Global Resources engineering team designs, simulates, and integrates IQAN software into mobile off‑highway machines, combining displays, controllers, and communication networks into a cohesive control architecture. Interested in learning more, or even attending an in-person IQAN training session taught by our in-house experts? Register for the training today, or take a look at our IQAN University video library, a series of on-demand targeted skills training videos.

The post IQAN™ MD4 to MD5 Migration: Updating Display Pages Faster first appeared on GS Global Resources.

Elevate your heavy equipment’s hydraulic performance with the Parker Hannifin P1M axial piston pump, a cutting-edge solution designed for demanding mobile applications.

Unmatched Efficiency and Durability

The P1M stands out with its patented inlet design that dramatically reduces erosion, cavitation, and pressure ripples, ensuring smoother operation and longer service life in harsh environments. Capable of continuous pressures up to 280 bar, it delivers high power density through high-speed capabilities and a compact, robust build tailored for heavy machinery OEMs. Choose from high-speed models for maximum productivity or low-noise variants for operator comfort, all while minimizing energy loss and operational costs.

Seamless Integration for Superior Machine Control

At GS Global Resources, we specialize in marrying advanced hydraulics like the P1M with Parker IQAN electronic controls for fully optimized systems that enhance accuracy, efficiency, and machine intelligence. Our engineering team integrates these components to enable real-time flow management, multi-mode operations, and data-driven performance adjustments—keeping your machines ahead of the competition.

Why OEMs Choose GS Global Resources

As the leading integrator of Parker Hannifin products, GS Global Resources brings unmatched expertise in hydraulic-electronic system design, from prototyping to production. We’ve empowered OEMs with solutions that boost safety, productivity, and profitability through pragmatic, scalable innovations. Whether upgrading existing fleets or engineering new builds, our single-point accountability simplifies complexity and accelerates your time to market.

Ready to harness the P1M’s power? Contact our specialists today to discuss integration tailored to your application.

The post Product Spotlight: P1M Axial Piston Pump first appeared on GS Global Resources.

Speed, efficiency, and the ability to pivot to unique requirements. These are crucial factors for heavy equipment OEMs when it comes to hydraulic components that are critical for overall machine power and control. GS Global Resources has been the foremost partner for OEMs for custom hydraulic solutions for over 50 years. Because of that, we are incredibly familiar with leading manufacturers, including Parker Hannifin. Their VA series valves offer OEMs versatile hydraulic solutions with sizes VA130, VA300, and VA450 for flows up to 120 GPM and pressures to 5300 PSI. Not only can we customize these valves to fit your machine’s exact technical needs, but we have the ability to create custom build programs to get you a finished product faster, which in turn gets the completed machine to end users quicker. But how do build programs work? In the video above, one of our veteran engineering designers, Dave Steinbrenner, talks you through how build programs are created and operate once a solution is in production.

Step 1: Capturing OEM Requirements

Sales teams start by identifying OEM needs, like upgrading to the VA450 valve on existing machinery. “Salespeople will come to us and just say, ‘my customer has these needs. This is a valve they have on there currently and they would like to update to something,'” explains Steinbrenner. They refine these into precise specs, collaborating with Parker engineers to validate feasibility using the VA 450’s load-sensing configuration, proportional controls, and robust nodular iron body.​

Step 2: Crafting the Build Spec

With specs finalized, we create a tailored bill of materials (BOM) including every VA 450 component, spare parts lists, and Parker-translated part numbers for shop efficiency. “Once we develop that spec, I can make a build program, build material to fit those needs. It gives me the specification, the spare parts list, which is literally every part within the assembly,” Steinbrenner says. We also have access to detailed valve configurator, 3D models, and test procedures that support detailed documentation for these complex valves.​

Step 3: Seamless Order Automation

Once the specific valve is through the design process, orders are entered into an automated system that checks inventory and drives parts demand. One of the primary benefits of the valve build program is that we are better able to keep necessary components stocked, giving us the ability to pivot and meet customer’s needs. However, even if parts aren’t in house, we are typically able to get them much quicker. “Once orders come in, it’s kind of all automated from there. If we have all the parts, we can have it done in a few days,” says Steinbrenner.​​

Step 4: Expert Assembly Process

The GSGR production team has over 50-60 years combined experience. “Our experience is unmatched. Our technicians really know what they’re doing.” affirms Steinbrenner, ensuring energy-efficient, cavitation-resistant performance tailored to OEM hydraulic systems.​​

GS Global Resources’ VA 450 build programs cut lead times, provide full transparency, and minimize risks for heavy equipment production. Ideal for OEMs needing customizable, high-flow solutions, this Parker partnership delivers unmatched speed and reliability. Contact us today to start a conversation with one of our experience account managers and engineering team about how one of these valve build programs could benefit your machine and streamline efficiency.

The post Custom Hydraulic Valve Build Programs: How do They Work? first appeared on GS Global Resources.

Parker Hannifin’s MD4 connector kits have recently been moved to obsolete status. For OEMs and engineers who continue to support MD4 display installations in the field, GS Global Resources now offers compatible MD4 connector kits to ensure uninterrupted service and system support.

GSGR’s MD4 kits are built to meet the same interface and performance specifications as the original hardware, enabling a direct replacement with no system redesign required. Each kit includes all necessary connectors and components for integration with Parker MD4 Human-Machine Interface (HMI) displays, maintaining the reliability and durability expected in mobile equipment applications.

These connector kits support continued operation of existing MD4 systems used in off-highway and industrial environments, helping OEMs maintain equipment performance and serviceability well into the future.

For technical details or to request a quote, contact us today.

The post MD4 Connector Kits Available from GS Global Resources first appeared on GS Global Resources.