Kentec launches next generation wireless fire detection system to KIP installers

The launch comes as installers are looking to provide their customers with solutions designed to prevent the need for costly ‘Waking Watch’ services, which are being used to mitigate fire safety dangers within buildings with unsafe cladding or fire safety issues until such time that remediation work is completed.

A wireless translator module, which sits at the centre of the system, is hard-wired to the fire alarm control panel loop and communicates continuously with the wireless devices.

Ekho sensors are supplied in three variants: optical, thermal and multi-criteria, with the optical and multi-criteria sensors featuring adaptive signal processing and double dust traps to prevent false alarms. Thermal detectors can respond to a fixed temperature threshold or detect a rate of rise in temperature. Wireless sounders, Call Points and testing kits are also available within the range.

Ekho’s wireless expander modules are used to extend the radio mesh network, increasing the reach and capacity of the overall system. It works by creating a self-healing mesh network which constantly relays field device signals back to the translator module. Each wireless device determines which expander has the strongest signal path and automatically connects to it. The expander mesh network, then, guarantees an ‘always on’ connection between the wireless devices and the translator/fire control panel.

Immediate market need

Kevin Swann, managing director of Kentec, firmly believes that Ekho addresses an immediate and urgent need for the market.

“It provides robust assurance that fire incidents are detected and communicated immediately,” asserted Swann. “Ekho’s simple design and fast commissioning process means that systems can be installed in a matter of days. As the Ekho system can be designed, programmed and commissioned from the complementary ‘Ekho Configurator’ software prior to installation, there’s less time required on site which is important for COVID safety measures.”

Swann concluded: “We’re delighted to offer this important solution through our ever-expanding network of KIP installers, all of whom are benefitting from Kentec’s training and product support and helping us to remain focused on customer requirements.”

Patrick Carnell, managing director of PJC Electrical, an installer on the KIP scheme that has already installed an Ekho system, informed Fire Safety Matters that the range’s ‘self-healing’ mesh technology significantly increases its reliability and system performance.

“It means the system uses additional transmission routes if one signal is broken and adapts automatically to changing operating conditions,” observed Carnell.

Commenting on Ekho’s ease of use, Carnell stated: “We were able to programme the devices at our offices, so when we arrived on site it was just a matter of fixing and turning them on. Spending less time on site benefits us and also provides peace of mind to the occupiers. I will definitely be using and recommending Ekho for future projects.”

RED approval

Ehko’s advanced, next generation capabilities include a communication range of 1,200 metres (approximately eight times further than typical wireless devices), the use of unlimited devices per expander and a detection device battery life of ten years (approximately twice that of typical systems).

The Ekho system is fully-expandable and configurable to any size and complexity of building. In addition to LPCB approval, it’s also the only wireless full-range fire detection system to have radio equipment directive (RED) approval, which sets essential requirements for Health and Safety, electromagnetic compatibility and the efficient use of the radio spectrum.

*More information is available online at www.kentec.co.uk