This year, JVA Technologies has been focussing on expanding our brand by attending various field days, such as Caboolture’s Farm Fantastic, Burpengary Equestrian Centre’s ODE (QLD) and Goondiwindi’s Sheep Technology field day. By speaking directly to our customers, we are not only able to provide extensive support on electric fencing design, but also gain insight into what our customers want from our brand. Here are the top five questions (and answers!) that we receive at field days!
1. Can all of your units use solar panels?
JVA has a wide range of solar solutions suitable for any length of fence. Our solar
range, consisting of the SV2 (0.1J), SV5 (0.5J) and SV10 (1.1J), include the solar panel and are ready to go out of the box! Alternatively, for those wanting a larger solar fence, or looking to incorporate the features from our IP Energisers into a solar system, we have solar kits available in our online store.
At time of publishing, JVA’s Electric Fence Energisers capable of connecting to a solar panel are as follows: PET100 (0.1J), MB1.5 (1.5J), MB3 (3J), MB4.5 (4.5J), MB8 (8J) and MB12 (12J).
The MB16 (16J) and Jumbo Energisers are available through our Solar Electric Fence Station.
2. What is the difference between fence tape and fence cord? What are the applications of each?
When deciding between politape and poliwire, it is often a matter of personal 
preference. While each have their advantages, poliwire and politape are both recommended for temporary fences, strip grazing fences and small backyard applications. At JVA, we stock 2.5mm poliwire and 12mm politape in white and orange. Equestrian tape (40mm) in the colour white is also available upon request.
Poliwire can be described as a plastic rope with stainless steel conductors woven into the "fabric". It is light, easy to tension by hand and is easy to see.
Politape, on the other hand, is a length of plastic tape woven with similar stainless steel conductors.
Like poliwire, it is also light, easy to tension by hand and easy to see. In most circumstances, politape will be more visible than poliwire, due to its increased width. This width, however, may cause increased movement and 'flapping' on windy days. You may have to replace your tape more regularly from increased wear and tear if you live in a windy area or during thunderstorm season.
JVA’s range of politape is popular with equestrian customers due to its increased visibility. The politape, in general, is also less aggressive than wire on a horse’s hide, and so has a lower risk of causing injury.
It is strongly recommended that you don't use either of these products for long fences (over a few hundred metres) due to the relatively high electrical resistance of poliwire compared to standard electric fence wire (2.5mm galvanized steel).
3. Are batteries included in all portable units? If so, how can I replace them?
Only the RSG1 and SV’s (Solar units) come with replaceable batteries inside the energiser. These batteries are affordable, common, and may be purchased from JVA or another wholesaler (such as Jaycar Electronics) directly.
To replace them, remove the screws from your energiser and open the case. From there, it is just a matter of disconnecting the faulty battery, and connecting the wires to the new battery. Then closing the case, making sure the O-ring seal is in place.
4. Where should I position my energiser?
When installing a mains powered energiser, ensure the energiser is kept in a dry environment to prevent moisture damage (either indoors or covered). While our energisers come in a waterproof case, it is a requirement under electrical safety laws that mains powered units must be mounted indoors. This includes the plug pack for MB energisers. For mains-battery energisers, consider protecting them with a waterproof cover to further prevent moisture damage to the internal electronics. Some people make a simple cover using a plastic bucket.
Mount solar energizers so that the solar panel is facing the noon sun (north in the Southern hemisphere, south in the Northern hemisphere). While the correct angle is your latitude plus 10 degrees, for most situations 45 degrees is fine.
5. What is the difference between a fence beeper and a fault finder?
A Fence Beeper is a small device that can be attached to your key ring. When 
held close to a live wire, it will make a high pitched ‘beep’. While it is a good indicator to know if your fence is working, it is not a fault finder.
The Electric Fence Directional Fault Finder, invented by JVA’s Director Paul Thompson, assists in troubleshooting on your electric fence. Simply place the metal tip to a live wire and press the button! Red arrows will light up if there is a fault, leading you directly to the problem. Other notable features of the fault finder include:
- Replaceable, common 9V battery.
- Reads amperage and voltage of the fence.
- Fits in your pocket or on your belt.
- No wires, no clips and no shocks!
- One-touch operation, for fast and efficient use.
Do you have any Electric Fencing questions? From design recommendations to troubleshooting your fence, our sales and engineering staff are available to assist you. For more information, contact us today! Email: sales@jva-fence.com.au