EMS FireCell FC-2X-AFR-FB-S-99 | 2X-A Addressable Repeater Panel | Network Card Included, Small Cabinet

FAQs

What is the difference between a repeater panel and a control panel?

The 2X-A Repeater Panel provides monitoring, indication, and fire brigade control functionality without local detection loops or programmable sounder outputs. It connects to the fire system network to display alarm conditions and provide control capabilities at remote locations such as security offices, building entrances, or fire brigade access points. Unlike control panels which manage detection devices and activate alarm outputs, repeater panels solely mirror the system status and provide remote control functions. This makes them ideal for secondary monitoring locations where full control panel functionality is unnecessary.

Does the repeater panel require a network board?

The FC-2X-AFR-FB-S-99 comes with the FC-2010-2-NB network board already fitted as standard, eliminating the need for separate network board installation. The network board is essential for repeater functionality as the panel must connect to the fire system network to receive alarm status information and transmit control commands. This pre-fitted configuration ensures the repeater is ready for immediate network integration following basic wiring and configuration.

How many repeater panels can be installed on a network?

Each repeater panel uses one node on the network. The 2X-A system supports networks of up to 32 nodes across 32 loops, meaning you can install multiple repeater panels alongside control panels up to the 32 node limit. When calculating network capacity, each control panel (with or without loops) and each repeater panel counts as one node. The network can also accommodate conventional fire panels and repeater panels up to a maximum of 64 conventional zones within the overall node limit.

Can I add zone LED indicators to the repeater panel?

Yes, the small cabinet provides space to accommodate the optional 24 zone LED indicator board (FC-2010-2A-ZI-24-S), which can be installed during commissioning or retrofitted later. The LED board provides individual fire and fault indication for up to 24 zones with customisable text labels, making it ideal for installations where personnel at the repeater location need to quickly identify specific alarm locations. The LED board draws only 12 mA and connects directly to the panel’s internal connections.

What fire brigade controls are included?

The repeater panel includes a full user interface with dedicated fire brigade and fire protection controls, allowing authorised personnel to acknowledge alarms, silence sounders, reset the system, and perform other control functions remotely. The interface is supplied in local language and follows standard fire system control conventions. This makes the repeater suitable for installation at fire brigade entry points or security control rooms where fire service personnel or building staff need comprehensive system control capabilities without accessing the main control panel location.

What power supply and battery backup does the repeater provide?

The repeater panel includes an integrated power supply accepting 240/110 VAC mains input with tolerance of +10% -15% at 50/60 Hz. The power supply supports battery backup using up to 2x 12V 7.2Ah sealed lead acid batteries, providing independent operation during mains failure. Quiescent current consumption is 1.1 A maximum at 24 VDC, whilst alarm current reaches 4 A maximum at 24 VDC. The integrated power supply ensures the repeater panel maintains functionality during power disruptions, critical for life safety system monitoring points.

Can the repeater panel be used with conventional fire systems?

Yes, the 2X-A network supports mixed system architectures including conventional fire panels and conventional repeater panels alongside addressable FireCell panels. The network can accommodate up to 64 conventional zones when integrating legacy systems, allowing phased system upgrades or integration of existing conventional equipment. The repeater panel’s network board handles protocol translation and ensures consistent status indication regardless of whether alarm signals originate from addressable or conventional devices on the network.