We have introduced 2 lines of Intruder detection systems to our catalogue, Ajax Systems' baseline & Dahua AirShield, expanding the level of security available from our website. Following this expansion, we believe it's only right to look at what other categories of home protection equipment we can provide. We then came across a very powerful and modern line of technology.
It's called the EN54 FireProtect from Ajax Systems'. This system has not been on the market for very long compared to some of the more traditional competitors in the fire security market, so it can be difficult to understand entirely how it works. In this article, we will be explaining exactly what EN54 is and everything you need to understand when making buying decisions surrounding the range. If there's already specific things you may want to know, skip straight ahead to answer those questions here:
How does the control panel work?
What are VAD/ Sounders and how do they work?
What should be included in a full EN54 system?
What is EN54?
The EN54 FireProtect is a range of wireless fire alarm & detection products from Ajax Systems. Being a wireless system, it brings fire security into the modern age, saving time and adding an innovative GUI to interact with. Fire installation in the UK requires meeting very specific regulations, so these products are BS5839 part 1 compliant, and an FIA certification is required to install it legally meeting all health and safety demands. It's sleek, modern touch screen interface and wireless connectivity make it the perfect system to install in any commercial & industrial settings or for large high end residential properties that meet the fire safety requirements.
How To Put Together Your Own EN54 System
Fire Control Panel
The fire control panel is the heart of EN54, every system needs one of these. It feeds signals to and from all the other devices that are connected, it contains the alert log history and customisation settings to set up each room, floor or category. A single control panel can connect with up to 200 different devices, up to a range of 1700m (yes, you read that correctly) with a direct line of site. No wonder this system can be used on any kind of site, imagine trying to run near 2km worth of cable! The control panel does need a wired power supply but is paired with a 24 or 72 hour back up battery, so if the power goes out your site will remain under watch for up to the whole weekend.
Detectors
These are quite self explanatory, detectors are what actually sense the fire. In the unfortunate event of a fire, the detectors will pick up the change in atmosphere and send a signal back to the control panel. Depending on your needs, detectors come in different types; smoke, heat, and smoke & heat. Fit these in every room across the property where the possibility of a fire is apparent. To determine the number of detectors you need, divide the square metres of the property by the coverage of the device.
Alarms/ Sounders
Much like the detectors, Alarm/sounders are self explanatory. For those who are living under a rock, these devices are what notify the people in the people in the building of a fire. Once that signal from the detector reaches the control panel, another one will be sent out to your alarm/ sounder for them to activate and begin the evacuation process. Alarms/ Sounders also come in 3 variations; VAD's or visual Alert Devices, these have a flashing light. Sounders, which are your traditional noise making alarms. And VAD/ sounders, which combines both visual lights and loud audible alarms. Put these in rooms where people tend to congregate like offices, waiting rooms, etc.
Before we move on, it is important to note that within Ajax Systems' EN54 range, there are 2 in 1 detectors & sounders to choose from. This could save you money in the long run depending on your specific needs.
Full System Setup
Now you're familiar with the EN54 products, or if you've skipped straight to this part of the article, we can go through the checklist of what you'll need in a full system and all the mandatory information.
So Ajax Systems' EN54 FireProtect is a range of wireless fire security detection products. It requires an FIA certification to install for compliance, health and safety, and legal reasons. Heres what you need to build your own system:
1. Control Panel:
The hub of the products, the heart of your system.
A backup battery to go with it (either 24 or 72 hour)
Optional: glad box wiring accessory to improve cable management
2. Detectors:
Your choice of heat, smoke or heat & smoke detectors in as many rooms as you deem necessary based on your calculation. (100m2 total building area / 50m2 device coverage = 2 Detectors)
3. Alarms/ Sounders:
Your choice of Visual Alert, Sounder, or VAD & Sounder in one. Evenly distribute these across the building to ensure audibility. Check your grade of life safety on the building (L1, 2, or 3)
With this checklist by your side, you know exactly how to put together your own EN54 system, so go! Explore the range and protect the people around you from potential fires today.
