Kidde Commercial adds new fire alarm devices
Iain Hoey
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Could these new fire alarm devices change safety in tough environments?
Kidde Commercial has announced new outdoor models and low frequency horn-strobes for its Genesis LED fire alarm series.
According to Kidde Commercial, the new outdoor range is designed to handle harsh settings including wet and wash-down areas.
The company explained that the devices include an extended light output option suited to open and large spaces.
It added that wall-mount, low frequency horns and horn-strobes are aimed at meeting requirements for sleeping areas, using a 520 Hz tone to improve wake-up response.
Kidde Commercial said both developments extend the Genesis LED series’ efficiency benefits for small and mid-size applications.
Outdoor models for challenging conditions
Kidde Commercial stated that the outdoor series includes extended candela models with light output up to 115 candela.
It said the units are intended for use in facilities such as manufacturing floors, freezers, and parking structures.
The company added that the appliances are available in ceiling or wall-mount form, with configurable output for light, audio, and voltage.
It reported that the devices can withstand extreme temperatures between -40°F and 151°F.
According to the manufacturer, the appliances are NEMA 4X / IP66 UL listed and exceed those standards with IP67 device testing against dust and water ingress.
New low frequency horns and strobes
Kidde Commercial advised that the new wall-mount low frequency horns and horn-strobes are built to meet sleeping area requirements.
It explained that the devices are customisable for sound and light settings.
The company added that they include a room-side wiring plate designed to simplify installation and reduce time on site.
According to Kidde Commercial, the 520 Hz tone is more effective in waking sleeping occupants than higher frequencies.
It stated that the units contribute to compliance with audio safety codes for residential and hospitality settings.
Integration with the Evolve fire alarm system
Kidde Commercial reported that all Genesis LED models are compatible with its recently launched Evolve fire alarm system.
It said the Genesis LED’s low current draw allows longer wire runs and more appliances per circuit, reducing cost.
The company explained that when paired with the Evolve system’s Voltage Boost technology, the combined set-up further increases efficiency and supports competitive bids.
Wally Ortiz, Global Product Management Director at Kidde Commercial, said: “Pairing the Genesis LED line with the Evolve fire alarm system means more simple yet powerful technology, supported by unparalleled installation and field support, for small and mid-size projects.”
Technical features of the Evolve system
According to Kidde Commercial, the Evolve system can support up to four loops, each with 250 addressable devices.
It said the system includes six programmable virtual switches, expandable up to 72, and five-colour programmable LEDs.
The company added that the system has a 10-inch touchscreen that reduces the clicks required to access reports by 40%.
It explained that the touchscreen design reduces the training time needed for both installers and operators.
Kidde Commercial said the system is designed to be scalable for different project sizes.
Relevance for fire and safety professionals
The announcement highlights new devices designed to meet code requirements for sleeping areas and outdoor conditions.
It shows how manufacturers are integrating appliances with scalable control systems for cost and efficiency benefits.
The update also demonstrates an industry trend toward modular devices that can be tailored to specific sites.
For fire safety professionals, the compatibility of new devices with existing systems is relevant to both installation planning and retrofit projects.
Kidde Commercial adds new fire alarm devices: Summary
Kidde Commercial announced the expansion of its Genesis LED fire alarm series with outdoor appliances and low frequency horns and horn-strobes.
The company reported that the outdoor models are designed for harsh settings including wet and wash-down environments.
It stated that the devices include an extended candela option delivering up to 115 candela output.
Kidde Commercial said the low frequency horns and strobes provide a 520 Hz tone suitable for waking occupants in sleeping areas.
It explained that all devices are compatible with the company’s Evolve fire alarm system.
The firm said the Genesis LED series offers low current draw to reduce wiring and cost.
Kidde Commercial reported that pairing the Genesis LED with the Evolve system’s Voltage Boost technology increases efficiency.
It stated that the Evolve system can support up to four loops with 250 addressable devices each.
The company added that the Evolve system includes a 10-inch touchscreen designed to simplify operation and reduce training.
It said the update is intended for small and mid-size applications.