Gamewell-FCI's VLC-400 Aspirating Detector

NORTHFORD, Conn., May 31, 2012 - Gamewell-FCI by Honeywell introduces the VLC-400 Aspirating Detector to immediately sense and verify the slightest traces of smoke and speed response to save lives and property, particularly within high-value and high-security facilities and in challenging environments. As many as 126 addressable VLC-400 detectors, made by Xtralis, can connect directly to the signaling line circuit (SLC) of Gamewell-FCI's E3 Series fire alarm and emergency communications systems, eliminating the common use of high-cost, standalone aspirating systems.

Designed for small- to medium-size areas where traditional detectors fail to quickly and accurately sense smoke, the VLC-400's advanced air sampling technology is ideal for high airflow spaces, atriums, ducts, tunnels, freezers and other challenging smoke detection environments. This aspiration technology also provides the very early smoke warning essential to occupant safety within hospitals, nursing homes and prisons, while protecting the high-value assets of server rooms, museums and historical landmarks.

The VLC-400 detector is UL-Listed and compatible with Gamewell-FCI's E3 Series systems right out of the box, no special modules or programming are required. The ability of this aspirating detector to integrate with an E3 Series system, the same as an addressable detector would, can save as much as 80% in material and labor costs as opposed to a standalone system.

"The key thing in using an intelligent aspiration detector is you're eliminating the cost and labor of installing multiple modules to monitor each conventional version of aspiration detectors." says Brian Carlson, Gamewell-FCI product specialist. "By connecting the aspiration detector directly to the SLC loop, the installer saves about $300 in materials and $500 to $1,000 in labor costs per detector."

For facilities requiring new fire alarm systems with aspiration detection, the material and labor cost-savings can be huge. As for the thousands of E3 Series systems already in the field, the simplicity of adding aspiration detection can reap more significant economic benefits.

A unique dual stage filter within each VLC-400 keeps internal optical surfaces clean, eliminating the need for drift compensation - a standard feature of most detectors which automatically alters device sensitivity levels to compensate for the common build-up of dust and other particulates. With five different sensitivity modes and a smoke threshold auto-programming feature, the VLC-400 detector can monitor air conditions for up to 15 days to ensure each detector's sensitivity settings match the needs of its location. Customization of each detector to its environment enhances the speed of response and greatly minimizes the risk of false alarms.

Gamewell-FCI's network of Engineered Systems Distributors throughout the U.S. are experienced in the design, installation, maintenance and testing of fire alarm and emergency communications systems with advanced detection technologies to fit virtually any facility.