The Intellifeed system works by measuring the rotor RPM. Once the rotor is up to the programmed start speed, the electronic control module allows forward feed when the feed control handle is placed in the “forward” position. Once both conditions are met, the control module signals the solenoid on the forward / reverse valve to shift into forward.
If the rotor slows down too much, then the control module signals the forward / reverse valve to reverse to pull the wood away from the rotor, giving the rotor the opportunity to speed up. Once the restart speed has been reached, forward feed resumes.
Reverse can be manually controlled with the feed control handle as well. The system allows reverse as long as there is electrical power to shift the solenoid and hydraulic flow. The rotor does not have to be turning for reverse to work.