I ordered one despite the "1 star foreign language rating". I'm currently experimenting with an automatic sun sail/radar for my boat so I haven't used it but it works as described on the Bansbach website. You must purchase this stand along with the cable/switch that controls it. (Bansbach Easylift 582 39 inch (1000 mm) Easytouch Bowden cable release system, steel). When you press the button on the cable/switch, the supporting force acts on the stem. When you release this button, the strut will lock into place.