Fike Twinflex Flash Point Domed Sounder Beacon, 90dB, 2-Wire 302-0022

What this device does

A sounder beacon tells people about an alarm in two ways, by sound and by light. That helps where one signal alone could be missed.

This Fike unit belongs to the Twinflex range. There, one pair of wires per zone serves the whole zone, so adding warning devices does not mean running a separate circuit.

How it works

• Power and signal: the device connects to the zone's two wires, the same pair the detectors use.
• DIL switch: the switch sets the inbuilt End of Line, which lets the panel supervise the wiring. As a rule, only the last device on a zone has it switched on.
• End of line in every device: all Twinflex devices have this capability.

Where to use it

Fike suggests extra sounders or sounder beacons where more sound is needed, or in areas that do not require detection.

A 2-wire system is often the natural choice for smaller applications. Uses include shops, offices, schools, nursing homes and restaurants.

Do not plan on it for wet or exposed positions unless Fike's documentation confirms the IP rating you need.

What the figures mean in practice

• 90dB: decibels measure loudness. Treat the figure as a guide and confirm audibility in the finished room.
• Up to 32 devices per zone: this beacon counts as a device, so include it when you add up the zone.
• Three sound patterns: as a rule, keep every sounder on a site on the same pattern, so the alarm is not confusing.

Installing it

Work from Fike's installation instructions for the terminals and switch positions.

Design, installation and commissioning of a fire alarm are work for a competent person. Sound levels and beacon coverage should be checked once the system is running.

Planning your system

This is one part of a larger job. The zone needs a Twinflex panel, and the batteries for Fike's panels are not included with them.

Most zones also need a detector, such as Fike's multifunction smoke and heat unit, plus call points. A smaller site could start with the 2 zone control panel and add warning devices as the design requires.

Before ordering, read how a commercial fire alarm system is specified. The category comes first, and it sets how many devices you need.