Evacuator Synergy+ Advanced Relay Interface

FAQs

What is the purpose of the Evacuator Synergy+ Advanced Relay Interface?

The Synergy+ Advanced Relay Interface serves as a wireless bridge between the Evacuator Synergy wireless fire alarm system and conventional wired alarm systems or building automation equipment. When the wireless fire alarm system activates, the relay interface can trigger external systems such as building alarm sounders, door release mechanisms, emergency lighting, ventilation shutdown, public address systems, or building management systems. This allows wireless fire detection to integrate seamlessly with existing infrastructure without requiring extensive rewiring, significantly reducing installation costs and disruption.

What does volt-free N/O and N/C contacts mean?

Volt-free (also called dry) contacts mean the relay outputs do not carry any voltage themselves and are electrically isolated from the Synergy+ device. N/O (Normally Open) contacts are open (disconnected) during normal operation and close (connect) when activated by a fire alarm. N/C (Normally Closed) contacts are closed (connected) during normal operation and open (disconnect) when activated. This volt-free arrangement allows the Synergy+ to safely interface with equipment operating at different voltages (12V, 24V, 230V, etc.) since the relay simply makes or breaks a connection in the external equipment’s own circuit.

How far can the Synergy+ communicate wirelessly?

The Synergy+ Advanced Relay Interface offers up to 2 kilometers (approximately 1.24 miles) wireless communication range in open areas with clear line of sight. The actual range will vary depending on building construction, obstacles, and environmental factors. The mesh radio connectivity provides additional reliability as signals can hop between multiple Synergy+ devices and other compatible Evacuator Synergy wireless devices to reach their destination, effectively extending range and ensuring communication even in challenging multi-story or multi-building installations.

How long does the battery last and how is it replaced?

The Synergy+ Advanced Relay Interface is powered by the included BATTERYPACK4, which provides up to 3 years of battery life under typical operating conditions. The device features battery low indication through the status LED, alerting users when battery replacement is needed. The battery pack is designed for straightforward replacement without specialist tools, ensuring minimal maintenance downtime. Battery life can vary based on usage frequency, environmental conditions, and how often the siren and relay are activated.

What is the IP55 rating and where can the device be installed?

The IP55 rating indicates the Synergy+ Advanced Relay Interface provides protection against dust ingress (dust protected – limited ingress permitted) and protection against water jets from any direction. This makes it suitable for both indoor and outdoor installations in locations exposed to weather, including building exteriors, car parks, warehouses, loading bays, and industrial areas. The included mounting gasket ensures weatherproof installation when properly fitted. However, the device should not be installed in locations subject to submersion or continuous heavy water exposure.

Can the Synergy+ trigger multiple systems simultaneously?

Yes, the Synergy+ provides both normally open (N/O) and normally closed (N/C) volt-free contacts, allowing it to interface with multiple external systems simultaneously. For example, it could trigger a public address system via the N/O contacts while also releasing fire doors via the N/C contacts. The 110dB siren provides local audible alerting while the relay contacts activate external equipment. The specific configuration depends on the wiring arrangement and the requirements of the connected systems.

What does mesh radio connectivity mean?

Mesh radio connectivity means that wireless devices can communicate not only directly with the main control unit but also via other devices in the system, creating multiple communication paths. If a direct signal path is blocked or weak, the signal can “hop” through intermediate devices to reach its destination. This self-forming, self-healing network topology significantly improves reliability, extends effective range, and ensures robust communication even in challenging building layouts with obstacles, multiple floors, or areas with poor radio propagation. Mesh networking is particularly valuable in large or complex installations.

Is the 110dB siren mandatory or can it be disabled?

The 110dB siren is built into the Synergy+ Advanced Relay Interface and provides local audible alerting at the device location. Depending on system configuration and programming options available through the Evacuator Synergy system, it may be possible to configure whether the siren activates during alarm conditions. This flexibility allows the device to provide both audible alert and relay interface functions, or to operate primarily as a relay interface with or without local sounder activation based on site requirements. Consult the full installation manual or contact FMC Fire for specific configuration options.

What external systems can the Synergy+ trigger?

The volt-free relay contacts can interface with virtually any system that accepts volt-free contact inputs, including: conventional fire alarm panels and sounders, building management systems (BMS), access control systems for door release, public address and voice alarm systems, emergency lighting systems, HVAC controls for smoke extract or ventilation shutdown, elevator recall systems, automatic door closers, strobe beacons, remote monitoring systems, and security alarm systems. The voltage-free nature of the contacts ensures safe integration regardless of the operating voltage of the connected equipment.

How is the Synergy+ powered if it’s wire-free?

The Synergy+ operates on the included BATTERYPACK4 rechargeable or replaceable battery pack, which is housed within the device enclosure. This battery power enables totally wire-free operation, eliminating the need for mains power connections. The extended battery life of up to 3 years significantly reduces maintenance requirements. Battery low indication via the status LED provides advance warning when replacement is needed. This wire-free design makes installation simple and allows the device to be positioned in locations where mains power would be difficult or impossible to provide, such as remote buildings, temporary structures, or outdoor locations.