Hochiki Europe – in association with modular cable specialist, Apex Wiring Solutions – has introduced a rapid-fix, electrical cabling solution for fire systems that, it claims, could revolutionise the way in which fire detection systems are installed. Called Smart-Fix+, it is described as a plug-and-play system that cuts installation costs, reduces waste, diminishes the need for site labour, improves site efficiency, enhances site safety and accelerates construction programmes.
Hochiki believes that Smart-Fix+ will fundamentally alter the way the construction industry thinks about fire system cabling. Early indications from installation contractors has led Hochiki to confidently predict that the new system will have fast take-off, particularly in the healthcare, education, retail, commercial and industrial sectors.
Smart-Fix+ is a fully-engineered cabling system that enables safe and rapid installation "straight from the box". Cables are supplied to site in pre-determined lengths at one-metre increments with factory-fitted connectors at either end. These loop cables plug directly into the Smart-Fix+ back boxes that are pre-wired to Hochiki fire detection and alarm devices. The ingenious flush-fit back boxes lock into place using a patented "swing lock" Rotalock fixing mechanism. Once the sensor base or call point is located in the fixing cavity, the fixing screws are tightened. This causes the Rotalock mechanism to turn away from the unit and tighten behind the fixing surface. A range of surface-fit units has also been developed utilising the same pluggable connectors.
To automate and simplify the cable measuring and ordering process, Apex devised what it describes as ‘a smart cable ordering solution' that utilises an electronic, multi-purpose form. The current Smart-Fix+ range includes modular plug-and play solutions for Hochiki's analogue addressable sensor bases, wall sounder bases, call points and an input / output module back box, as well as for the company's CDX conventional detector bases and call points. Both flush-fit and surface-fit solutions are available.
The new system drastically reduces the need for laborious snagging, on-site testing and commissioning, as every Smart-Fix+ assembly is 100% tested before leaving the factory. The pluggable, lockable and mechanically-coded connections ensure that there is no prospect of mis-mating, plus they eradicate on-site cable preparation and costly and potentially dangerous cabling errors. Reduced point installation time may also negate the requirement for a mobile scaffold, although this should always be approved through a risk assessment process.
Hochiki
01634 266 566
[email protected].
www.hochikieurope.com
