FAQ's

What is railroading of fabric?

Railroading is the term for rotating the fabric 90 degrees on the table and running the fabric sideways.  This may be needed when the width of the shade exceeds the width of the roll.  When a fabric has been railroaded, the width of the roll becomes the height (drop) of the shade.

How does fabric color affect the shade?

Both view-through and heat control are affected by the color of the shade.
Darker colors absorb light and are therefore not as good for heat control.  However, they are better at glare control and as a result provide better view-through.  Conversely, lighter colors reflect light and are therefore more energy efficient, but not as effective at controlling glare, resulting in decreased view-through.

What is GREENGUARD?

Greenguard Environmental Institute is an independent organization that tests and certifies materials used for furnishings to ensure they contain minimal or non-existent levels of dangerous contaminants that could impact indoor air quality.

What fabric sampling is available?

Rollease Acmeda stocks a variety of sampling formats including cards, decks, binders and swatches.  For additional information, contact your Regional Sales Manager.

What are the primary benefits of solar screen?

Solar screens are an excellent choice for your window because they help to protect the inside of your room/home/building by reflecting out some of the sun’s rays.
Depending on the weave and color, solar screens can help reduce energy costs, reduce glare, improve privacy, and or improve view-through. 

What does openness factor mean?

Openness factor is a percentage that refers to the ratio of fabric to openings in the weave.  This open space allows for light to come through the fabric.  A larger openness factor will allow for more light and visibility, while a smaller openness factor will provide greater light blockage and less visibility.

What is the composition of the Rollease Acmeda solar screens?

SunShadow is made from a polyester yarn that is coated with a specially-formulated, non-toxic PVC that does not contain odor causing compounds generally associated with solar screen material.

Ambient is our PVC-free offering and is made of 100% polyester

Can solar screen fabric be railroaded?

The 3000 NET, 4000 NET, and Ambient screens can be railroaded (turning width for length).  We do not recommend railroading other screen fabrics.

Is your screen fabric flame retardant?

Our entire screen offering is has passed NFPA-701 and California Title-19.

How do you clean solar screen?

SunShadow screens can be wiped with a sponge and warm soapy water. Remove dust with vacuum cleaner or compressed air. Do not scrub. Do not use solvents or abrasives that could harm the coating of the fabric.

Is cut yardage available?

Cut yardage is available with a 3 yard minimum.

What is the warranty on SunShadow?

Rollease Acmeda offers a limited lifetime warranty to our direct customers.

How do designer fabrics control daylight?

Unlike solar screen fabric that uses openness factors, our designer fabrics control light by their construction, coating and color, which can fall into 3 distinctive classifications:

1. Transparent – permit light to pass through and the objects in background have high visibility
2. Translucent – diffused view, limited visibility
3. Blackout – complete UV blockage and no view

Can Designer fabrics be railroaded?

While most of this collection can be railroaded, we do not recommend railroading Vista or Balmoral.  If a fabric has a pattern, it’s important to note that the pattern will change when the fabric is turned. For specific inquiries, please contact your Regional Sales Manager.

What are the cleaning recommendations for the designer fabric?

Do not soak. Clean by gently wiping with a sponge and warm soapy water. Remove dust with vacuum cleaner or compressed air. Do not scrub. Do not use solvents or abrasives.

Are any of the designer fabrics flame retardant?

There are a limited number of fabrics that are FR, which are identified and grouped together on the Fabric page of the Rollease Acmeda web site.

How do I get a copy of the flame-retardant certification?

Contact Rollease Acmeda Customer Service at 800-552-5100.

What is the composition of the designer fabric?

Depending on the style, Rollease Acmeda Designer fabrics can consist of all cotton or polyester, or a variety of blends.  Contact customer service for specific inquiries.

Is cut yardage available?

Cut yardage is available with a 3 yard minimum.

What metalized fabrics does Rollease Acmeda offer and who makes them?

Our entire metalized/high performance offering is made by Verosol.
We offer SilverScreen in 2% and 4%, EnviroScreen in 2%, and OmniaScreen in 3%.

Why use a metalized fabric?

Our metalized backing significantly improves light and temperature control in the window.
Traditionally light colored fabrics were good at temperature control but weaker with light control.  Conversely dark fabrics were good at light control but weaker with temperature control.  Applying the aluminum makes all fabrics equally good at both light and temperature control, regardless of the color facing inside.
This results in a color independent solution.

Does the silver backing work like a mirror in the window?

No.  The yarns are round and therefore create a diffused reflection to the outside.  In the window, the metalized backing looks white or pale gray.

How do I clean a metalized fabric?

Make sure not to scratch the aluminum.  Use a soft cloth and a neutral or gentle soap.  Don’t rub or use abrasive detergents.

What is the composition of your commercial blackouts?

The composition of both Mesa and Tempe is 100% polyester.

What environmental benefits are associated with Mesa and Tempe?

Both are PVC-Free, Lead-Free, Fragrance-Free, and GREENGUARD certified.

Can Mesa or Tempe be railroaded?

Railroading (turning width for length) is not recommended.

Is cut yardage available?

Cut yardage is available with a 3 yard minimum.

How do I get a copy of the flame-retardant certification?

Contact Rollease Acmeda Customer Service at 800-552-5100.

How do you clean the commercial blackout fabrics?

Wipe with a sponge and warm soapy water. Remove dust with vacuum cleaner or compressed air. Do not scrub. Do not use solvents or abrasives that could harm the coating of the fabric.

Where can I get details on the Rollease Acmeda US Warranty?

Download document here

What is the Rollease Acmeda US Return Policy?

Customer should contact their Rollease Acmeda Customer Service Representative (203-964-1573) or email sales@rolleaseacmeda.com so that we can issue a RGA (Return Goods Authorization) and provide further instructions and assistance with return shipping logistics.

• You have 60 days from the date of invoice to notify Rollease Acmeda Customer Service of any potential returns. Returns reported after 60 days are solely at our discretion. Once approved, you will be provided with a Return Goods Authorization (RGA) number. The return must be shipped back to us within 21 days.
• If the return is due to a mistake or quality issue on our part, no restocking fee will be charged; otherwise our normal restock for returns is 15%. For fabric returns, we will only accept returns for cut fabric if greater than 12 LY and we will apply a 25% restock fee on returns of cut yardage.
• If the return is due to a mistake or quality issue on our part, Rollease Acmeda will provide return shipping labels (for smaller returns) or return bills of lading (for larger returns). These will be sent to you via email from our shipping department. Simply print the label(s) received with your RGA (Return Goods Authorization) and attach it to the package to be returned. All products must be in original boxes with Return Goods Authorization number marked on the boxes.
• For material that needs to be sent back by common carrier truck, you will have the option to schedule the pick-up when you are ready, or Rollease Acmeda will schedule it for you as noted above.
• When your return is received, it will be processed within 3 business days under normal circumstances.
• Any credit due on the return will be expedited through our financial department. The credit will be applied to your account and a credit memo will be mailed to you.

Can I order components in colors other than those shown in the catalog?

Yes – please contact your Regional Sales Manager to discuss your request for custom colors and we will provide information on minimum order quantities and lead times.

What is the Automate motor line?

The Automate motorization line is a comprehensive range of battery, A/C, & D/C motors for a variety of motorized window coverings including Roller Shades, Roman Shades, Cellular Shades, Pleated Shades, Sheer Shades, Zebra Shades, Tilting Blinds, and Draperies.

For an overview of the Automate Produce Line, refer to our Automate Range Overview.

What type of control options are available?

The Automate motorization line includes handheld remotes as well as surface and cut-in wall switches for  local control of motorized window coverings The system also includes a wi-fi hub which enables mobile app control and doubles as a bridge for integration with third party control systems.

How do I calculate what a motor can lift?

(Nm x 200) /diameter = load. Example: a 34mm tube and 1.1nM motor lifts 6.47kg (1.1x200/34)

Which tube is best suited for each motor?

See Automate Range Overview for system and motor compatibility.

 

 

We have a longstanding OEM manufacturing partner, who has been producing motors for over 30 years. 

 

 

Hard wired motors and remotes: 7 years. Battery motors: 5 years. For additional warranty information, click here. 

What is ARC?

ARC stands for Automate Radio Communication. It is the latest motor control technology by Rollease Acmeda. It runs on a frequency of 433Mhz and is bi-directional, which means that control and position information can flow from a controller/hub to the motor and from the motor back to a controller/hub.

What are the advantages of ARC?

It runs on the proven 433Mhz frequency, utilizing FSK modulation, which improves resistance of interference against other devices. Communications are reliable and robust and programming is straight forward and simple.

How many motors can be controlled by one remote control?

Unlimited. An unlimited amount of motors can be set to the same channel as one single channel remote.

How does the Pulse hub communicate?

The hub has built in wi-fi to communicate with mobile devices and internet routers.  It also utilizes ARC communication to send and receive messages from Automate motors.

Is the customer required to remove the motor from the blind to charge it?

No, the motor can be charged while installed.  Simply plug in the charger to the connector at the motor head.

How long does the motor take to charge?

First charge: 6 hours Subsequent charges should also last 6 hours.

What do the red/green lights on the charger mean?

A red light comes on to signify fast charging of the battery. After fast charge is done, the light turns green and the remaining 3 hour charge becomes a trickle charge, optimizing battery performance.

Can I overcharge the battery by leaving the charger on too long?

No. The motor/battery both have integrated overcharge protection circuits. This means that the battery will limit the charge it will accept if plugged in longer than necessary.

Can I leave the charger on the motor indefinitely?

Yes. The charger can be left plugged into the motor longer than a charging cycle requires. This makes the motor into a hard-wired solution, with a battery backup.

How long will the battery last before it needs to be recharged?

It depends on the motor model and the size/weight of the shade.Generally, the target is 500 up/down cycles. The Automate Pulse app will indicate when the motor battery is low and in need of recharge.

Why does my motor beep 10 times?

• The battery in the motor needs recharging.
• Recharge with the AC adaptor that came with the blind.
• Check the connection and positioning of the solar panel

Does the motor battery ever need replacing?

No, the battery is designed for the full life of the motor.

 

Why am I unable to pair the remote to the motor?

The pairing is a sequence that has a time limit. When you press and hold the P1 button until the motor jogs one time, you must then press and hold the STOP button on the desired transmitter/channel within 4 seconds, and the motor will jog twice and beep to confirm that it is paired.

How do I set limits?

When programming a motor for the first time, after it is paired to a channel, you should first check direction. To change direction, press UP and DOWN simultaneously. Then set limits. Adjust your top limit position, then press and hold UP and STOP until the motor jogs and beeps. Then move the shade to the bottom position and adjust its position to where you want it to be. Press DOWN and STOP and the motor will jog and beep, to confirm the limit. Then, the motor is programmed and will run as normal.

My limit position needs to be adjusted. How do I do that?

Move the shade to somewhere near where you want the limit to be. For the top limit, press and hold UP and STOP until the motor jogs, and release. The motor will be in step mode and you can adjust the position as you prefer. Then press and hold UP and STOP and the motor will jog and beep to signal that it has recorded that limit. Follow the similar procedure to adjust the bottom limit. Press DOWN and STOP.

Please note that it takes longer to open the limit than it does to close it. This is intentional.

Why am I unable to set the limits? The motor will jog and pair, but I can’t set the limits?

Reason: Multiple motors are paired to the same channel

• Always reserve an individual channel for programming functions
• SYSTEM BEST PRACTISE - Provide an extra 15 channel remote in your multi motor projects for the installer. That provides individual control dedicate to each motor for programming purposes.
• Place all other motors into sleep mode [ref to P1]

Why does a motor “LOSE” its limits?

• The battery is dead
• Someone accidentally reset the motor to factory settings

How can I change directions? My motor is programmed with its limits, but when I push the UP button, it goes down.

Before the limits are set, motor direction can be changed by pressing and holding the UP and DOWN buttons simultaneously, until the motor reacts. If the limits have been set, the direction can be changed by pressing and holding the P1 button until the motor jogs 3 times.

Can you hide channels that are not in use?

Yes, on a multi-channel remote, they can be adjusted to show the number of channels in use; e.g. if there are 8 motors on the job you can select it to be an 8 channel remote.

What is channel 0 for?

All motors that are programmed to the same remote, automatically respond to channel 0. For example, on channel 0, pressing the up button will move all blinds that are programmed to that remote up.

Why can’t I program another channel to my motor? I was able to pair the motor to the first transmitter, but I can’t get it to pair to the next channel.

Before a motor can accept programming from another channel or transmitter, the limits must be set so that the motor is in normal operational mode.

Solar Panel

Will the solar panel keep the battery fully charged?

The solar panel will harvest enough energy to regenerate for 2 cycles per day, where a cycle is a full rotation of the blind; once up and down. This has been tested in the worst-case conditions with the panel being south facing, in indirect light and behind glass. When the panel is north facing in direct sunlight, the results will be even better.

Is the customer required to remove the motor from the blind to charge it?

No, the motor is charged while installed.

My motor is attached to the solar panel, but the battery goes flat.

There is Insufficient charging from the solar panel. Ensure that the solar panel is receiving adequate sunlight – check connection and orientation of the solar panel.

Interior Sun Sensor

How many motors can the interior sun sensor handle?

If the motors have not exceeded the amount of control devices, they can memorize (typically 30) and all motors are within range of the sensor (typically 30m) or up to 200m open space. The interior sun sensor can handle unlimited motors.

Can the interior sun sensor control both internal and external motors?

Yes.

Programming Instructions

Please refer to our website for programming instructions. Make sure that you are logged-in when following this link.

Further Support

If you are an end-user, please contact your installer or dealer.

If you are a dealer or distributor, please contact us for further assistance. Contact information is located at the bottom of our homepage.

Interior Hardware Training Archive

Roller Shade Basics - Clutch Systems Overview | Webinar Q & A 
Child-Safe Manual Rollers - Easy Spring Series | Webinar Q & A 
Review of Control Methods for S45 Tubes | Webinar Q & A 

Exterior Hardware Training Archive

Introduction to Automate Programming | Webinar Q & A 
Introduction to Automate's Comprehensive Product Offering | Webinar Q & A
Automate Programming and Ask the Expert Q&A | Webinar Q & A
Navigating Automateshades.com | Webinar Q & A 
Centralizing Low Voltage Power Management | Webinar Q & A 
Support & Resources Overview 
Delivering on User Experience with the Pulse 2 Hub App | Webinar Q & A