Johnson Controls has introduced what it describes as ‘an innovative range’ of sounders, visual alarm devices (VADs), and visual indicating devices (VIDs), ‘to help improve performance of fire detection systems and ensure evacuation responses occur quickly during a real fire event’.
The company said: “With two leading fire detection brands in Europe – Zettler and FireClass, Johnson Controls offers highly sophisticated fire detection solutions for a range of different environments and project size.”
Specialists at Johnson Controls say they have harnessed independent research into light patterns and their effect on triggering human reactions, to improve the design and functionality of the new range of VIDS and VADS. Johnson Controls explained: “The research, from the BRE, shows that LED light output with a pulse width lower than 20 milliseconds is more effective at alerting people because of the light frequency. Engineers at Johnson Controls have adopted these findings, to ensure the visual alarm devices in our new range flash at a pulse width, which is always less than 20 milliseconds when activated.”
The devices use ‘a new and highly sophisticated self-testing technology’, developed by Johnson Controls to assess real light and sound output. This reportedly enables facilities managers to test and maintain the devices ‘much faster than before’. The company said: “During a test, the device’s real light and sound output levels are checked in a fraction of second per device and recorded. Data on their output levels is sent back to the fire control panel to highlight if devices are not functioning as required, making it simpler and quicker to see if any need replacing.”
Once installed, facilities managers can use the device’s Reflective Sound Monitoring (RSM) and Reflective Light Monitoring (RLM) features, to perform a full test of sounders, VID, and VAD devices. Johnson Controls added: “This remarkable self-testing means the device’s output can be tested without causing disruption to occupants and reducing desensitisation of a genuine activation.”
The low current consumption of the new products, meanwhile, allows more sounders, VIDS, and VADs, to be accommodated on a single loop.
Peter Hauser, senior Global Product manager from Johnson Controls said: “With the new EN54-23 standards it is increasingly important for installers and consultants to consider the requirements of VADs in complete fire detection solutions. These devices play a crucial role in alerting people and evacuating them safely in the case of a fire. Within our new range we have enhanced the capability of these devices above and beyond the requirements of recognized standards. Our products are supported by a complete range of design, commissioning and installation guidance.”