Honeywell Beam Smoke Detector Guide

Honeywell TC847A1004 Reflective Beam Smoke Detector: A Complete Guide to Selection, Installation, Debugging, and Troubleshooting

Introduction: Challenges of smoke detection in tall spaces and advantages of beam detectors

In large commercial courtyards, church domes, hangars, warehouses, sports arenas, and enclosed parking lots, traditional point type smoke detectors are difficult to work effectively due to smoke stratification effects and installation and maintenance difficulties. The beam type smoke detector detects smoke by emitting a beam of infrared light and measuring the attenuation of the light intensity at the receiving end, which can cover a protection range of tens to hundreds of meters. However, traditional dual ended radiation detectors require precise alignment of the transmitter and receiver, which is time-consuming and costly to install and debug.

Honeywell's TC847A1004 single ended reflective beam smoke detector integrates the transmitter and receiver into the same unit, requiring only one reflector to be installed, greatly simplifying the installation and alignment process. This detector is compatible with Honeywell's FlashScan ®  Or CLIP mode intelligent fire alarm controller, as well as FS90, XLS200, XLS1000 (CLIP mode only). Its working temperature range is wide from -22 ° F to 131 ° F (-30 ° C to 55 ° C), suitable for extreme temperature environments. This article will provide engineers with a detailed technical guide from selection comparison, installation and debugging, sensitivity setting, troubleshooting to maintenance testing.

Core features and technological advantages of the product

1.1 Single ended reflective design

Unlike traditional dual ended detectors, TC847A1004 integrates the transmitter and receiver into the same housing, with only one reflector installed on the opposite side. This brings the following advantages:

The installation time has been significantly reduced: there is no need to align two independent units, only one reflector needs to be aligned.

Simplified wiring: Only power supply and signal circuit connection are needed at the detector end, and the reflector does not require any electrical connection.

Easy maintenance: All debugging and testing operations are completed on the detector end.

1.2 Six optional sensitivity levels

The detector provides six sensitivity settings (specific settings are implemented through the controller):

Grade shading percentage display reading applicable distance range

Level 1 25% 25 16.4-120 ft (5-36.6 m)

Level 2 30% 30 25~150 ft (7.6~45.7 m)

Level 3 40% 40 60-220 ft (18.3-67 m)

Level 4 50% 50 80-328 ft (24.4-100 m)

Acclimate ®  Level 1 30%~50% A1 80~150 ft (24.4~45.7 m)

Acclimate ®  Level 2 40%~50% A2 80~200 ft (24.4~67 m)

Acclimate ®  The mode utilizes advanced software algorithms to automatically adjust the optimal sensitivity within a specified range according to environmental changes, especially suitable for places with large fluctuations in environmental smoke.

1.3 Built in Sensitivity Test Function (Integral Sensitivity Test)

TC847A1004 has a test filter driven by a servo motor inside. When activated through RTS151 or RTS151KEY remote testing station, the filter will automatically move into the optical path, simulating a certain degree of shading to verify the detector's response capability. This design enables users to meet the annual maintenance and testing requirements of NFPA 72 without physically contacting the detector. Attention: The servo motor requires external 24 VDC power supply, not SLC circuit power supply.

1.4 Automatic Gain Control (AGC)

The built-in automatic gain control circuit can compensate for signal attenuation caused by dust accumulation, extend the effective working cycle of the detector in polluted environments, and reduce false alarms and maintenance frequency.

1.5 Visual Alignment Assistance

The detector integrates an optical sight and a two digit digital signal strength display. Accurate adjustment can be achieved by observing the signal strength reading without the need for specialized tools.

Detailed explanation of technical specifications

2.1 Scope of Protection

Standard range: 16-230 feet (5-70 meters)

Expansion range: 230-328 feet (70-100 meters), requiring the optional long-distance kit BEAM LRK

2.2 Adjusting the angle

The optical components of the detector can be adjusted horizontally and vertically by ± 10 ° independently of the housing. This provides flexibility for installation on sloping ceilings or uneven walls.

2.3 Environmental specifications

Working temperature: -22 ° F to 131 ° F (-30 ° C to 55 ° C)

Humidity: 10% to 93% relative humidity, no condensation

Anti condensation heating kit: optional BEAMHK (for detector) and BEAMHKR (for reflector) to prevent condensation from forming (note: the heating kit does not change the rated operating temperature range, only prevents condensation)

2.4 Electrical specifications

Parameter values

Operating voltage (SLC) 15-32 VDC

Standby current (average) ≤ 2 mA @ 24 V

Alarm current ≤ 8.5 mA

Fault current ≤ 4.5 mA

Alignment mode current ≤ 20 mA

External power supply (for testing motors) 15-32 VDC, 0.5 A maximum

Remote alarm output 15-32 VDC, 6-15 mA (built-in 2.2k Ω current limit)

2.5 Mechanical dimensions

Detector: 10.0 "H x 7.5" W x 3.3 "D (254 x 191 x 84 mm)

Standard reflector: 7.9 "x 9.1" (200 x 230 mm)

Long distance reflector: 15.7 "× 18.1" (400 × 460 mm)

Shipping weight: 3.7 lbs (1.68 kg)

2.6 Indicator light status

Normal: Green LED flashing

Alarm: The red LED is constantly on, and the remote alarm output is activated

Fault: The yellow LED is constantly on (fault conditions include: shading rate ≥ 96%, alignment mode, improper initial alignment, self compensation limit reached)

Installation and Alignment: A Step by Step Guide

3.1 Preparation before installation

Choose installation location: Ensure that there are no permanent obstacles in the optical path. Personnel, equipment, or decorations must not frequently pass through the straight path between the detector and the reflector.

Spacing requirements: According to NFPA 72, the horizontal spacing between adjacent beam detectors should not exceed 60 feet (18.3 m), and the distance between the beam and the sidewall should not exceed half of this spacing.

Mirror installation: The mirror should be installed on a flat and sturdy surface, ensuring verticality. For long distances (>230 ft), large-sized reflectors from the BEAMLRK kit are required.

3.2 Detector Installation

The detector can be installed on the ceiling or wall. For special installation requirements:

BEAMMMK Multi Installation Kit: Provides ceiling or wall installation capability and increases angle adjustment range.

Surface mounting kit BEAMSMK: used for direct surface mounting.

Heavy duty multi installation kit 6500-MMK: suitable for places with high vibration (needs to be used in conjunction with 6500-SMK).

3.3 Optical alignment steps

Connect the SLC power supply and external test motor power supply (if used).

Place the detector in alignment mode (usually through dialing or controller commands).

Roughly align the center of the reflector through an optical sight.

Observe the two digit display (signal strength reading). The larger the value, the stronger the received signal.

Fine tune the horizontal/vertical angle of the detector to achieve the maximum reading (usually ≥ 90).

Fix the adjustment screw and exit the alignment mode.

Attention: In alignment mode, the detector will not sound an alarm and the fault LED may light up, which is a normal phenomenon.

3.4 Wiring precautions

The detector uses a pluggable terminal block, which needs to be unplugged from the circuit board before wiring. After the wiring is completed, reinsert it.

SLC circuit: The polarity of the wiring terminals (usually marked as+and -) is independent.

External power supply: To supply power to the servo motor, a 15-32 VDC power supply is required (pay attention to the positive and negative poles).

Remote alarm output: can be connected to remote indicator lights or relays, with output current limited to 6-15 mA.

Remote testing station: RTS151 or RTS151KEY can be remotely activated and reset by connecting with two or three wires.

Matching sensitivity settings with distance limitations

The sensitivity setting must be performed when the detector is not in the fine alignment step (i.e. when the two digit display is not lit). Operation steps:

Open the detector casing.

Find the sensitivity button (see the "Switch Locations" image in the document).

Short press the sensitivity button once, and the two digit display will light up and show the current setting (for example, "25" means 25% shading).

Continue holding down the button, and the settings will loop until the desired values (25, 30, 40, 50, A1, A2) are displayed.

Release the button and it will automatically turn off after a few seconds.

Key rule: Not all sensitivity settings are applicable to any installation distance. You must refer to the table in the document to select:

25% blackout: only suitable for 16.4-120 ft (5-36.6 m)

30% blackout: only suitable for 25-150 ft (7.6-45.7 m)

40% blackout: only suitable for 60-220 ft (18.3-67 m)

50% blackout: only suitable for 80-328 ft (24.4-100 m)

Acclimate ®  1 (A1): Only applicable for 80-150 ft (24.4-45.7 m)

Acclimate ®  2 (A2): Only applicable for 80-200 ft (24.4-67 m)

Violation of regulations can result in false positives or false negatives. For example, using 25% sensitivity at a distance of 200 ft is not allowed because the signal attenuation exceeds the threshold before the smoke reaches sufficient concentration.

Troubleshooting: Common Problems and Solutions

5.1 Continuous display fault of detector (yellow LED constantly on)

Possible cause inspection and resolution

The light path is completely blocked (≥ 96% shading). Check if there are any objects (such as chandeliers, flags, tools) that completely block the light beam

The detector is in alignment mode and should not be in alignment mode during normal operation

Inappropriate initial alignment, low signal strength. Re perform optical alignment to ensure that the digital signal strength reading reaches the maximum value (usually>90)

The self compensation limit has been reached (AGC cannot compensate for dust accumulation) to clean the optical window and reflector; If it still doesn't work, the detector may need to be replaced

Serious contamination on the surface of the reflector. Clean the surface of the reflector

Check the fixing of the mirror for misalignment or looseness, and realign it

5.2 False alarm

Possible cause inspection and resolution

Sensitivity setting too high (overly sensitive) Choose a more suitable sensitivity based on actual distance (such as changing from 30% to 40%)

There are intermittent obstructions in the light path (such as moving people, vehicles, equipment). Adjust the installation position or add protective fences

Consider using Acclimate for environmental smoke sources such as welding and forklift exhaust ®  Mode allows the detector to automatically adapt to the environment

Dirty mirrors or optical windows cause signal attenuation. After cleaning, observe whether the signal strength recovers

5.3 Unable to activate remote testing function

Possible cause inspection and resolution

Test if the external power supply of the motor is not connected or the voltage is insufficient. Measure the external 24 VDC power supply to ensure that the voltage is between 15-32 V and the current capacity is ≥ 0.5 A

Remote testing station wiring error: Refer to the wiring diagram and reconnect RTS151 (usually 2-wire or 3-wire)

Use a multimeter to measure the resistance of the motor coil (which should not be zero or infinite) for servo motor faults. If there is a problem, replace the detector

5.4 Unstable signal strength readings

Possible cause inspection and resolution

Install the base vibration (if there are large fans or compressors nearby) and use the 6500-MMK heavy-duty multi installation kit to strengthen the fixation

Loosen the reflector and re tighten it

There is strong hot air flow or steam in the environment. Adjust the installation position or add protective covers

Maintenance and testing: meet NFPA 72 year inspection requirements

6.1 Annual testing using built-in test filters

According to NFPA 72 requirements, beam smoke detectors need to undergo sensitivity testing annually. The traditional method requires manual use of filters to block the light path, while the built-in testing function of TC847A1004 automates this process:

Connect an external 24 VDC power supply to the test motor terminals.

Activate the remote testing station (RTS151) or through controller commands.

The servo motor moves the filter into the optical path and simulates the predetermined shading rate.

The detector should enter an alarm state, the red LED should light up, and the controller should receive an alarm signal.

After the test is completed, reset the detector (which can be done through a remote testing station or controller) and remove the filter from the optical path.

Advantages: No need for high-altitude operations, no need for physical contact detectors, safe and efficient.

6.2 Cleaning of reflectors and optical windows

Frequency: Every six months or depending on the level of environmental dust.

Method: Use a soft cloth and mild glass cleaner to avoid scratching the mirror surface.

Attention: After cleaning, the signal strength reading should be checked, and if there is a decrease, it needs to be realigned.

6.3 Maintenance of Heating Kit

If BEAMHK (detector heater) or BEAMHKR (reflector heater) is installed, it should be checked regularly:

Is the power supply voltage of the heater normal (15-32 VDC).

Observe whether the optical window condenses in a low temperature and high humidity environment. If condensation occurs, it indicates that the heater may be malfunctioning.

Accessories and replacement options

When the original detector is discontinued or needs to be upgraded, TC847A1004 and its accessories provide a flexible replacement solution.

7.1 Main accessory models

Model Usage

TC847A1004/TC847A1004A standard detector (A is ULC certified version)

BEAM LRK Long Distance Kit (for 70-100 m)

BEAMMMK Multi Installation Kit (Ceiling or Wall Installation, Increased Adjustment Angle)

BEAMSMK surface mounting kit

BEAMHK detector heating kit (anti condensation)

BEAMHKR reflector heating kit (anti condensation)

RTS151/RTS151A remote testing station (A is ULC certified version)

RTS151KEY/RTS151KEYA remote testing station with key lock

6500-MMK heavy-duty multi installation kit (anti vibration)

6500-SMK surface mounting kit (for use with 6500-MMK)

7.2 Precautions when replacing old models

Controller compatibility: Confirm if the fire alarm controller supports FlashScan ®  Or CLIP mode. TC847A1004 provides more features and faster response in FlashScan mode.

Distance matching: If the installation distance of the old system exceeds 230 feet, the BEAMLRK kit must be purchased, otherwise the detector will not work properly.

Power requirements: The old system may not have provided an external 24 VDC power supply for the test motor. When replacing, an independent power module (15-32 VDC, 0.5 A) needs to be added.

Installation hole position: Check if the installation base of the old detector is compatible with TC847A1004. If necessary, use BEAMSMK or BEAMMMK for adaptation.

Mirror replacement: If using a long distance, it is necessary to replace it with a large-sized mirror (15.7 "× 18.1") at the same time.

7.3 Selection Suggestions

For standard tall spaces (height 10-30 meters, span ≤ 70 meters), choose the TC847A1004 standard configuration.

For ultra long spans (70-100 meters), TC847A1004+BEAMLRK must be selected.

For extremely cold or high humidity environments such as cold storage and outdoor canopies, install BEAMHK and BEAMHKR to prevent mirror condensation.

For places with high vibration, such as near large stamping equipment or along railway lines, use the 6500-MMK heavy-duty installation kit.