Kentec Economy Software Download Lead
£38.31 (inc VAT: £45.97)
Summary
The Kentec X187LS Economy Download Lead is a specialized serial programming cable designed for configuring and commissioning Kentec addressable fire alarm control panels. This universal upload/download lead provides essential connectivity between a PC and the panel’s RS232 data port, enabling installers to program panel settings, configure cause-and-effect logic, and manage device parameters through the Loop Explorer software.
Unlike the standard S187 download lead which is limited to Syncro panels only, the X187LS economy version offers broader compatibility across the Kentec addressable range including Syncro, Syncro AS, Solo, and Solex panel families. This makes it the recommended choice for installers working with multiple Kentec panel types, as the X187LS can safely interface with all addressable models without risk of panel damage that could occur using incorrect cable variants.
The cable features a non-standard 10-way connector on the panel end that plugs into the dedicated PC Data port on the rear of the panel front assembly, while the opposite end terminates in a standard 9-pin D-type serial connector for connection to a PC’s COM port or USB-to-serial adapter. The connection operates at 19200 baud with 8 data bits, no parity and 1 stop bit (19200 8N1) and supports cable runs up to 15 metres maximum length.
Features
- Compatible with Kentec Syncro, Syncro AS, Solo and Solex addressable fire panels
- RS232 serial data connection for panel programming and configuration
- 10-way proprietary connector on panel end for PC Data port connection
- Standard 9-pin D-type serial connector on PC end
- Works with Loop Explorer and Loop Explorer 2 PC configuration software
- Enables upload and download of panel configuration data
- Supports cause-and-effect programming for complex fire system logic
- Universal economy version safe for all compatible panel types
- Maximum cable length of 15 metres
- Serial communication at 19200 baud (8N1 format)
- Essential for initial panel commissioning and ongoing system modifications
- Connects to rear-mounted PC Data port on panel front assembly
- Allows device addressing, zone configuration and system parameter setup
- Supports network panel configuration when working with multiple panels
- Can be used with USB-to-serial converters for modern laptops without serial ports
FAQs
Which Kentec panels is the X187LS download lead compatible with?
The Kentec X187LS Economy Download Lead is compatible with Kentec Syncro, Syncro AS, Solo, and Solex addressable fire alarm control panels. This universal compatibility makes it the preferred choice over the standard S187 lead, which is designed only for Syncro panels and can cause damage if used with Solo panels. The X187LS provides safe connectivity across the entire Kentec addressable panel range.
What software do I need to use with the X187LS download lead?
The X187LS download lead works with Kentec’s Loop Explorer PC configuration software, including both the original Loop Explorer and the newer Loop Explorer 2 (LE-2) versions. This software runs on Windows and enables complete panel programming including device addressing, zone configuration, cause-and-effect logic, and system parameter setup. The software is available as a free download from Kentec for registered users and installers.
Can I use the X187LS cable with a laptop that doesn’t have a serial port?
Yes, the X187LS cable can be used with modern laptops that lack built-in serial ports by using a USB-to-serial converter. Kentec offers the U187 converter specifically designed to work with their download leads, which converts the 9-pin serial connector to USB Type-A. Alternative USB-to-serial adapters with appropriate drivers can also be used to provide the required RS232 COM port functionality.
What is the maximum cable length for the X187LS download lead?
The maximum recommended cable length for the Kentec X187LS download lead is 15 metres. This limitation is based on the RS232 serial communication standard’s distance constraints. For installations requiring longer distances between the programming PC and fire panel, consider using RS232-to-RS485 converters which extend communication range while maintaining data integrity.
What is the difference between the X187LS economy lead and the S187 standard lead?
The primary difference is panel compatibility and safety. The S187 standard download lead is designed exclusively for Kentec Syncro and Syncro AS panels and should never be used with Solo panels as it will cause panel damage. The X187LS economy version offers universal compatibility with all Kentec addressable panels including Syncro, Syncro AS, Solo, and Solex models. The X187LS is the safer choice for installers working with multiple panel types or mixed installations.
Do I need the download lead for routine system maintenance?
The download lead is required for any configuration changes to the fire alarm system including modifying cause-and-effect programming, adding or removing devices, changing zone assignments, adjusting detection sensitivity settings, or updating panel firmware. While routine testing and basic panel operation can be performed from the front panel controls, any programming or configuration modifications require connection to a PC using the X187LS download lead and Loop Explorer software.
Specifications
- Product Type: Upload/download programming cable
- Compatible Panels: Kentec Syncro, Syncro AS, Solo, Solex
- Connection Type: RS232 serial data
- Panel Connector: 10-way proprietary connector
- PC Connector: 9-pin D-type serial (DB9)
- Maximum Cable Length: 15 metres
- Baud Rate: 19200
- Communication Format: 8N1 (8 data bits, no parity, 1 stop bit)
- Configuration Software: Loop Explorer / Loop Explorer 2
- Panel Connection Point: PC Data port (rear of panel front assembly)
- Lead Version: Economy (universal compatibility)
Additional information
| Weight | 0.1 kg |
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