Ziton A51E-1 | Addressable Mains Relay Module | DIN Rail, Double Pole

FAQs

What types of equipment can the A51E-1 control?

The A51E-1 is designed to control mains-powered ancillary equipment within fire alarm systems, including magnetic door release circuits, extract fans, smoke dampers, ventilation systems and general equipment shutdown applications. With contact ratings of 5A at 250VAC or 1A at 60VDC, it can directly switch most building services equipment. The volt-free changeover contacts provide maximum flexibility for different control circuit configurations.

How many A51E-1 modules can be connected to a single loop?

Up to 127 addressable devices in total can be connected to each ZP control panel loop, including detectors, call points, interface units and relay modules. The A51E-1 requires one device address and draws only 600µA quiescent current (1mA during alarm), making it very efficient. The actual number of modules per loop depends on the total current budget and the quantity of other devices already connected.

What is the difference between the normally open and normally closed contacts?

The A51E-1 provides two sets of Form C changeover contacts. Terminals 1-2 and 5-6 are normally closed connections that open when the relay activates (energizes), suitable for fail-safe applications like holding doors open or keeping equipment running. Terminals 2-3 and 4-5 are normally open connections that close when the relay activates, ideal for activating equipment or triggering shutdown sequences during fire alarm conditions.

Can the relay be programmed to respond to specific devices or zones?

Yes, the A51E-1 offers flexible programming through the control panel software. The relay can be configured to activate in response to any single device, groups of devices, specific zones, or all system devices. Any type of system input can trigger the relay including individual detectors, manual call points, zone outputs, or control panel indicators, allowing customized cause-and-effect programming for different scenarios.

Does the A51E-1 require an external power supply?

No external power supply is required for the A51E-1 logic and relay operation – it draws its operating power directly from the 20V pulsed addressable loop, consuming only 600µA quiescent and 1mA during alarm. However, the equipment being controlled (fans, door releases, etc.) will require their own appropriate power supplies. The relay contacts are volt-free, meaning they simply switch the external circuit without providing power.

What enclosure is required for installation?

The A51E-1 must be mounted inside protective housing to prevent casual entry and protect against flooding. Kidde recommends the ZP3-AB1 Accessory Box (PN 70002) with standard DIN rail mounting. Alternative metal enclosures may be used provided they meet minimum IP30 rating for indoor use and have minimum weight of 4.8kg. All cable entries must be properly glanded or water-trapped to prevent fluid ingress.

What safety precautions are required during installation?

Dangerous voltages may be present at relay contact terminals even when power is shut off, creating an electrocution hazard. Installers must take proper safety precautions including isolating all circuits, verifying all field wiring is free of opens, shorts and ground faults before connection, and following appropriate electrical safety procedures. The module contains no user-serviceable parts and must not be disassembled. Installation should only be performed by qualified professionals.

How is the relay address configured?

The A51E-1 uses a binary DIP switch system for addressing, allowing addresses from 1 to 127 to be assigned. Each switch position represents a binary value, and the device address is determined by the sum of the enabled switch positions. This is the same addressing method used across all Ziton addressable loop devices, ensuring consistency throughout the system. The control panel polls each address every two seconds to maintain communication.