Hochiki YBN-R/3 Analogue Common Mounting Base, Ivory, for ESP Sensors

What this base does

A detector base is the fixed part of a fire detector. The cables end here, and the sensor then fits on to it, so a sensor can be taken off for service without disturbing the wiring.

This Hochiki base is a plain common base. Its job is to hold the sensor and connect it to the loop, which is why no electronics are built in.

How it works

• Addressing: the address lives in the sensor rather than the base. Each sensor must have its address set before system operation, using any number from 1 to 127.
• Remote indicator: a separate indicator can show that a hidden sensor is in alarm, such as one inside a locked room.
• Analogue: an analogue sensor reports a value to the panel, and the panel decides on the alarm.

What the figures mean in practice

• Fixing centres: the range of 48 ~74 mm is the distance between its fixing holes, so check it against any box already in the ceiling.
• 8 mm depth: this is what the base adds before the sensor goes on. Allow for the sensor as well when checking clearance.
• Temperature: the operating range is narrower than the storage range, so check unheated roof spaces against the -10 °C to +50 °C figure.

Installing it

• Who does it: installation should only be carried out by suitably trained personnel.
• Plan positions first: each sensor location should be planned to local and national fire regulations and recommendations.
• Test afterwards: all sensors on the system must be tested to confirm correct operation.
• Service: where no standard sets a period, Hochiki recommends a minimum period of maintenance of 1 year.

Planning your system

Allow one base per sensor position, and order the sensors separately. A smoke detector or heat detector from Hochiki's ESP range is the usual choice.

You will also need an address programmer, such as the TCH-B200, to set each sensor.

The system also needs a panel that runs the same protocol, the language panel and devices share. Read the protocol off the panel before buying, because different makers' devices are not interchangeable.

Ratings explained

• IP20: the 2 means protection against fingers and objects over 12.5mm. The 0 means no protection against water.