A new modular range of fire panels has been unveiled by Bosch Security Systems. What is claimed to be a new approach to fire panel design means that a panel can be easily expanded when needed, and is also able to be tailored to different countries’ standards.
The panel is based on the building block principle. It consists of individual modules – such as housings network equipment and power supplies – which can be easily combined as necessary. Carrier units, using a common bus system, enable connections that facilitate communication and route power between the modules.
As in a PC, a ‘plug-and-play’ principle allows fire panel modules and the components attached to them to be automatically recognised by the central control unit. The modular approach revolves around Bosch’s Local Security Network (LSN) module, where a single two-wire line routes both power and communication between the connected devices. If an element fails due to cable breakage or a short circuit, the faulty loop section is isolated and the loop structure is converted to a two-stub configuration. Loop modules with 300mA and 1500mA are offered with the 5000 Series Modular Fire Panel. The company claims that a large number of alarm sounders can be connected via the two-wire line, with no need for expensive E30 (fire-resistant) wiring.
In addition, PC boards can be easily damaged through static discharge or incorrect handling. This is resolved in the new design where the functional units consist of completely encapsulated modules, which connect to panel rails on the ‘click and go’ principle.
As for the end-user, Bosch has designed what it describes as a user-friendly interface, in collaboration with software ergonomics experts from the Federal Technical High School of Zurich. All major functions, such as diagnosis options and complete call-up of all incoming messages and events, are built into the system. The software also allows users to sort the connected elements into different groups in different ways. This means that functions can quickly and easily be assigned to entire element groups – without having to call up each element individually.
Download the Fire Safety in 2023 eBook, keeping you up to date with the biggest news and prosecution stories from around the industry. Chapters include important updates such as the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 and an overview of the new British Standard for the digital management of fire safety information.
Plus, we explore the growing risks of lithium-ion battery fires and hear from experts in disability evacuation and social housing.
