Based in Lower Hutt, New Zealand company Pertronic Industries designs and manufactures highly specialised fire detection systems for the New Zealand and intensely competitive international market. Key to Pertronic's success is their innovative monitoring/response software. The company uses its small player status to its advantage by producing outcomes tailored to the needs of individual clients in an environment of collaborative teamwork, and by supporting international clients through the establishment of branches in their locality. This case study explores Pertronic's philosophy, market niche, set-up and production, and also takes a look at their principal product in terms of the role of subsystems in technological systems.

Discussion starters Years 11-13

• Discuss how the design, manufacturing and on-going customer support elements are effectively integrated to ensure the product can be developed, manufactured and maintained effectively.
• Identify and explain the role of the subsystems involved in the overall fire monitoring system.
• Discuss the considerations involved in the external sourcing and in-house manufacture of the components needed to produce the completed fire panel described.
• Explain the following terminology in relation to the design and manufacture of the fire panel:
  • Firmware
  • Surface-mount technology
  • Validation team

Pertronic Company website

e.NZ : Protecting Scott Base

Futureintech video

YouTube videos

• General description of Fire alarm systems:
  /watch?v=Ux-1wfqWdvU
• PCB design for manufacturing:
  /watch?v=rBj0gRrald8
• Printed circuit board (PCB) Technology:
  /watch?v=Z6z_YjokgLw
• Prototype PCB soldering:
  /watch?v=0OIMmQkAuDQ
• Machine placing of components:
  /watch?v=PsfBYpQDJLc
  /watch?v=Q_unEJUHiJY