Hochiki HCP‑E(SCI) Addressable Manual Call Point with Short‑Circuit Isolator (Red) HCP‑E(SCI)

Introduction to the Hochiki HCP‑E(SCI) Addressable Manual Call Point and its key features

Hochiki HCP‑E(SCI) Addressable Manual Call Point (Red)is an analogue addressable call point designed for use on Hochiki ESP protocol systems. Combining a non‑frangible EN54 compliant activation element with an integral short‑circuit isolator (SCI), the HCP‑E(SCI) delivers clear visual status, simple addressing and dependable loop protection for commercial and public building installations. Typical suggested retail price: 39.99 (check with your supplier for current pricing and availability).

Key features at a glance:

• Analogue addressable (ESP) communications for precise zone and device identification.
• Integral short‑circuit isolator (SCI) to protect the loop and maintain system integrity during faults.
• Non‑frangible EN54 activation element supplied as standard for compliance and safety.
• Bi‑colour status LED — red for alarm, amber for short‑circuit indication.
• Built‑in test/reset via panel or a local test key; addressed using TCH‑B100 / TCH‑B200 handheld programmer.
• Flush mounting as supplied; surface mounting available with a separate SR back box.
• LPCB / EN54 approvals for use in compliant fire alarm systems.

Detailed description of specifications and benefits

The HCP‑E(SCI) is designed to meet the needs of modern addressable fire alarm systems. Its feature set and technical specifications are focused on reliability, ease of installation and reduced service disruption.

• Operating voltage: 17–41 V DC — compatible with a broad range of ESP loop voltages.
• Low power mode: 180 µA (max), 100 µA (typ) — conserves loop power when idle.
• Quiescent current: 350 µA (max), 250 µA (typ).
• Alarm current: 10.0 mA (max), 5.0 mA (typ) — low draw during alarm reporting.
• Contact resistance: 100 mΩ closed (max), 100 kΩ open (min).
• SCI threshold: short‑circuit threshold typically 430 Ω — immediate protection for detected loops.
• Transmission: Digital ESP analogue addressable protocol for precise device reporting.
• Operating temperature: −10 °C to +50 °C; Storage: −30 °C to +70 °C.
• Max humidity: 95% RH non‑condensing (at 40 °C).
• IP rating: IP24 (indoor use) — suitable for protected indoor environments.
• Material / Colour: Modified polyphenylene oxide, Red.
• Weight & dimensions: Flush: 110 g; W89 × H93 × D27.5 mm. With SR back box: 161 g; D59.5 mm.
• Mounting: Flush (supplied) or surface with SR back box (sold separately).
• Approvals: LPCB / EN54 compliant — suitable for regulated systems in many regions.
• Addressing: Programmer: TCH‑B100 / TCH‑B200 handheld.
• LED indication: Bi‑colour LED — red (alarm), amber (short indication).
• Test function: Built‑in panel or local test/reset key.

• Built‑in short‑circuit isolator: The integrated SCI isolates the faulty section of a loop automatically when a short is detected. This prevents a single wiring fault from taking down the entire circuit, improving system resilience and reducing downtime and call‑outs.
• Addressable operation (ESP protocol): Precise device identification simplifies commissioning and maintenance. The panel receives detailed information about the activated call point, making response faster and more accurate.
• EN54 compliant non‑frangible element: Safer to use in public spaces and compliant with relevant regulatory standards where EN54 certification is required.
• Clear visual status: The bi‑colour LED immediately communicates alarm or short‑circuit conditions to engineers and facility staff, aiding rapid diagnosis.
• Low power footprint: Minimal quiescent and low‑power currents help preserve loop power capacity, enabling more devices per loop where permitted by the control panel specifications.
• Simple testing: Built‑in test/reset either from the panel or locally via a test key reduces the need for invasive maintenance and streamlines routine testing procedures.

Use cases and scenarios where the HCP‑E(SCI) excels

The HCP‑E(SCI) is versatile and particularly well suited to environments where reliability, clarity of alarm source and minimal service disruption are priorities. Typical applications include:

• Commercial offices and retail centres — clear identification of manual inputs helps security and facilities teams respond quickly to incidents without ambiguity.
• Public buildings and transport hubs — EN54 compliance and a non‑frangible element make the unit appropriate for spaces with heavy footfall and strict regulatory requirements.
• Healthcare and education facilities — dependable operation and low maintenance interruptions are critical where occupant safety and continuity of service matter.
• Industrial plants (indoor protected areas) — integral SCI provides loop protection where wiring damage could otherwise disable detection across multiple devices.
• Refurbishments and retrofit projects — compact dimensions and compatibility with ESP panels mean the HCP‑E(SCI) can replace or upgrade conventional call points while delivering enhanced diagnostics.

Note: The unit is rated IP24 and intended for indoor environments. For outdoor or wet locations, a suitable weatherproof enclosure and correct back box selection should be considered.

Comparisons with similar products in the market

When comparing addressable manual call points, key differentiators are the presence of an integral SCI, compliance to EN54, activation element type (frangible vs non‑frangible), addressing method and test/reset options.

• Integral SCI vs external isolators: Call points with built‑in SCIs (like the HCP‑E(SCI)) reduce the number of external components and simplify wiring. Systems using separate external isolators may require additional parts and labour, and may expose more single points of failure.
• EN54 / non‑frangible elements: Some older or lower‑cost call points use frangible glass elements which can create maintenance and safety concerns. The HCP‑E(SCI) uses a non‑frangible EN54 compliant element, balancing compliance with safer handling in busy environments.
• Addressing and programming: The HCP‑E(SCI) uses Hochiki ESP protocol and is programmed with TCH‑B100 / B200 programmers. Other brands may use different proprietary protocols or programming tools — consideration should be given to panel compatibility and technician familiarity.
• Visual diagnostics: Bi‑colour LEDs for alarm and short‑circuit indication are common on higher‑end call points; some budget alternatives may only indicate alarm. The additional amber short indicator on the HCP‑E(SCI) helps speed fault finding.
• Approvals and certification: LPCB and EN54 approvals are often required for compliance in many regions. Products without appropriate approvals may not be accepted on regulated projects.

Customer feedback and installer perspectives

There are no official public testimonials included with the product data provided here. However, typical feedback from installers and end users for devices with this specification profile generally highlights the following:

• Positive: Installers appreciate the built‑in SCI which reduces wiring complexity and improves fault tolerance on the loop. The ability to test/reset locally and the clear bi‑colour LED are frequently cited as time‑saving features during commissioning and maintenance.
• Positive: Facilities managers value the EN54 compliance and non‑frangible activation element for public and commercial spaces where safety and regulation adherence are essential.
• Consideration: Surface mounting requires a separate SR back box; projects should budget for this accessory if surface installation is needed. Always verify panel compatibility and programmer availability for addressing.

Conclusion: why the Hochiki HCP‑E(SCI) is a strong choice

The Hochiki HCP‑E(SCI) Addressable Manual Call Point combines proven EN54 compliance with practical features that reduce downtime and simplify maintenance. Its integral short‑circuit isolator enhances loop resilience, while the ESP addressable protocol and handheld programming options make commissioning straightforward. The non‑frangible EN54 activation element and bi‑colour LED improve safety and diagnostics in busy environments. For commercial, public and institutional projects that require reliable, standards‑compliant manual call points with built‑in loop protection, the HCP‑E(SCI) represents a compelling balance of functionality, simplicity and regulatory suitability. As always, installation, commissioning and maintenance should be carried out by competent personnel in accordance with local regulations and the panel manufacturer guidelines.