What is an interconnected smoke detector?

Interconnected smoke detector: the basics

The autonomous smoke alarm detector, also known as the DAAF, is a device that alerts the occupants of a room when it detects the start of a fire. Equipped with a battery that can last up to 10 years, the DAAF is first and foremost a safety product. Small and discreet, it will fit perfectly into any environment.

Since March 8, 2015, it has been mandatory in France to install at least one smoke detector in every home. The device must bear the CE mark and be EN14604 certified. These endorsements prove that the detector has passed all the tests required to comply with safety requirements.

To ensure optimum product performance, we recommend testing and dusting the detector at least once a year, using the brush attachment of a vacuum cleaner.

Interconnected smoke detector: what’s the point?

Broadly speaking, an interconnection is an association by connection of two or more detectors. In this way, the devices can transmit the same information to each other at the same time.

Interconnection between smoke detectors is a method of linking several products within the same network, so that they can communicate with each other in the event of smoke or fire detection. This enables a faster, more coordinated response in the event of an emergency, by simultaneously triggering the audible alarms of all connected detectors. In this way, interconnecting smoke detectors enhances safety thanks to extended coverage and functionalities tailored to different requirements.

There are two types of interconnection:

Wired interconnection

For wired systems, the detectors are connected by physical cables. When a device detects smoke, it sends an electrical signal through the cables to trigger the other devices. In this way, the response is synchronized across all the detectors in the system, generating audible warnings simultaneously.

The disadvantage of these wired systems is that to connect the products to each other, several meters of cable have to be laid, and if they are incorrectly connected, damaged orcut, then the smoke alarms won’t work properly.

Wireless interconnection

In the case of wireless devices, FADs are linked together by radio-frequency signals. Each detector is fitted with a radio antenna that enables it to transmit and receive signals from other detectors. When a product detects danger, it sends a radio signal to other smoke detectors to trigger the alarm.

Owning a fleet of wireless detectors gives you greater flexibility when it comes to installing them.

The advantages of wireless interconnection between FADs

First of all, to interconnect two or more detectors, a network must be created. This is carried out when you pair up (the steps may vary according to the different models on the market).

Interconnecting sensors has many advantages:

A chain reaction: When one detector detects smoke, all interconnected detectors in the network are triggered simultaneously. This ensures rapid response and early warning throughout the building

Better coverage: Interconnected detectors offer more comprehensive coverage, which is particularly beneficial in larger properties or multi-storey homes.

Amplified alerts: If a fire breaks out in an area where occupants are not present, interconnected detectors ensure that the alarm sounds everywhere, even in remote areas.

Night-time protection: At night, when occupants are asleep, a distant smoke detector may not be heard. Interconnected detectors ensure that alerts spread everywhere, saving lives while you sleep

Compliance with fire standards: In many regions, fire safety standards require interconnected smoke detectors in new builds or major renovations.

Interconnected smoke detector technology plays an essential role in improving fire safety. It ensures a rapid, coordinated response in the event of danger, while adapting to the specific needs of each environment.

Where to install the various detectors?

For maximum protection, we recommend installing :

• On the ceiling in the center of the room, more than 50 cm from corners, walls, beams or other obstacles
• On the wall, between 50 and 60 cm from the ceiling.

However, the detectors must not be installed at :

• Proximity to an area that is warmer or colder than the rest of the room (e.g. insulated walls, hatches, etc.).
• Less than 50 cm from obstacles preventing smoke from reaching the detector (e.g. plants, doors, decorative objects, chandeliers, etc.).
• Less than 50 cm from lighting fixtures (e.g. ceiling lights, lamps, etc.).

What to do in the event of a fire?

To protect your health from the risk of smoke-induced asphyxiation, here’s what to do in the event of a fire:

1. Leave the area quickly, protecting your nose and mouth with a handkerchief or a piece of clothing.
2. Dial 18 or 112 to call emergency services
3. Keep a safe distance between you and the source of the smoke until help arrives.

If you are near the exit or on a lower floor than the fire, evacuate immediately.

If the situation is different and you are on a higher floor, or even on the same level as the fire, it is recommended that you stay where you are and adopt the following good practices:

• Close the doors
• Moisten a cloth and place it under the door to prevent smoke from passing underneath.
• Wait for help at a window
• Cover your nose and mouth with a damp handkerchief if smoke enters the room.

What does NEXELEC offer for home fire safety?

NEXELEC offers a wide range of detectors to meet all your needs. Our smoke detectors are designed to adapt to any environment.

NEXELEC offers products equipped with sealed or replaceable lithium batteries with a service life of up to 10 years. In the range of DAAFs, some devices are also capable of measuring temperature and humidity in the room. The LoRaWAN low-speed radio protocol enables detectors to be connected. What’s more, our products feature NFC technology for quick, one-touch reading of sensor status data. It is also possible to interconnect up to 25 detectors within a single fire safety network.

Nexelec smoke detectors are compatible with various accessories such as remote controls or kits for the deaf and hearing-impaired:

• The REMOTE remote control unit remotely controls ceiling-mounted detectors. A single universal remote control can operate all the products in a building
• The ALERT deaf and hard-of-hearing kit features a strobe flash and a powerful 110 dB siren. The VIBRATE vibrating cushion (available as an option) wakes up occupants if necessary.

To prevent the risk of fire, it’s important to equip your home or building with appliances designed to ensure the safety of people and property. Autonomous Smoke Detectors (ASDs) are just such a product. When smoke is emitted in a room, if the devices are interconnected, all occupants in the same building are alerted. When a hazard is located, the DAAF warns you by emitting an audible and visual alarm simultaneously.