Kentec Syncro View Local LCD Repeater Panel

FAQs

How many Syncro View repeaters can be connected to a single fire alarm panel?

Up to 15 Syncro View repeaters can be connected to each Syncro AS fire alarm control panel via the serial data bus. Each unit must be assigned a unique address (1-15) using the 4-way DIL switch on the circuit board. The maximum total cable length for all repeaters is 1200 metres using 2-core RS485 shielded fire alarm cable. Each repeater’s connection is monitored by the control panel, which will indicate a fault condition if any configured repeater becomes disconnected.

What is the difference between 24V DC and 230V AC powered models?

The 24V DC models (K67000M1, K67001M1) require external 24V DC power, which can be conveniently supplied from the main Syncro panel’s auxiliary 24V output using just two additional cable cores alongside the data connection. Up to 4 repeaters can be powered from a single Syncro panel auxiliary output. The 230V AC models (K67750M1, K67751M1) include an internal 750mA power supply and battery backup (two 12V 1.9Ah sealed lead acid batteries), providing complete standalone power with backup in case of mains failure. Choose 24V DC models for simpler installation when panels are relatively close, or 230V AC models for locations requiring independent battery backup or when the auxiliary supply capacity would be exceeded.

What is the enable control keyswitch and when should I specify it?

Models K67001M1 (24V DC) and K67751M1 (230V AC) include an enable control keyswitch on the fascia, while models K67000M1 and K67750M1 do not. The enable control keyswitch provides an additional layer of security by requiring a key to be turned before the repeater’s control functions (such as Silence, Reset, Test, etc.) become active. This is useful in locations where you want to provide status indication to a wider audience but restrict control operations to authorized personnel only. Without the keyswitch, all controls are immediately accessible to anyone at the repeater location. Choose keyswitch models for public areas or locations requiring controlled access to fire system functions.

How does the Syncro View handle communication and what happens if communication is lost?

The Syncro View communicates with the main Syncro panel via a two-wire RS485 serial data connection, separate from the Syncro AS network. The COMMS LED on the circuit board flashes quickly when communication is active and working correctly, and goes off if the unit is disconnected or connected incorrectly. The main Syncro panel continuously monitors each configured repeater’s connection. If a Syncro View that should be present (as configured in Loop Explorer) loses communication or is disconnected, the main panel will indicate a fault condition. This ensures any communication problems are immediately detected and reported, maintaining system integrity.

How do I add a Syncro View repeater to my existing Syncro system?

Adding a Syncro View requires both physical installation and system configuration. First, install the unit with appropriate fire alarm cable (shielded cable like FP200 with metal glands), connecting the two data cores to the COMMS terminals on the main panel and power cores to the AUX 24V terminals (for 24V models) or local mains supply (for 230V models). Set a unique address using the 4-way DIL switch on the PCB. Then use the Loop Explorer configuration utility to add the View repeater to your system: click the site name, double-click the View Repeater icon, select the panel it connects to, and configure its name (location) and address. The address set in software must match the physical DIL switch setting. Once the configuration is loaded into the panel, the panel will monitor for the repeater’s presence and indicate faults if it’s not connected or communication is lost.

What is the data termination jumper and when should it be removed?

All Syncro View repeaters are supplied with a jumper fitted at position J3 on the left side of the PCB. This jumper connects a terminating resistor that must be present at the last unit on the data line to ensure proper RS485 communication. If you’re installing only one repeater, leave the jumper in place. If you’re installing multiple repeaters, you must remove the jumpers from all units except the last one in the daisy-chain connection. The termination resistor at the end of the line is essential for reliable serial communication – incorrect termination can cause communication errors or intermittent operation across all repeaters on the bus.