Introduction to the product and its key features
Hochiki CHQ-CB/WLWHT Addressable LoopPowered Ceiling Beacon (VAD)is a compact, high-performance visual alarm device designed for use on Hochiki ESP addressable loops. Built to meet EN54-23 standards for visual alarm devices, the CHQ-CB/WLWHT offers flexible coverage options, high-intensity LEDs with a custom free-form (Fresnel-style) optic, and plug-and-play compatibility with Hochiki detector/sounder bases such as YBN-R/3, YBN-R/3(SCI) and YBO-BS.
This product is intended for indoor fire alarm installations where a reliable, clearly visible visual alarm is required—particularly where loop-powered addressability and minimal wiring are priorities. It provides configurable flash rates and selectable light output to match different building types and levels of ambient lighting.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The CHQ-CB/WLWHT is a loop-powered visual alarm device (VAD) that combines practical installation attributes with performance-focused optical design. Key specification highlights include:
- Addressable operation:Integrates directly onto Hochiki ESP addressable loops for individual device monitoring and control.
- Loop-powered:Eliminates the need for a separate power supply or cabling for the beacon, drawing both communications and power from the same loop wiring.
- High-intensity LEDs and Fresnel-style optic:The custom free-form lens concentrates LED output into a strong, highly visible flash for enhanced sighting in large or lit spaces.
- Coverage variants:Model-dependent coverage options of 5 m, 7.5 m, 10 m and 15 m diameters allow installers to select the correct unit for the application and maintain compliance with EN54-23 coverage classifications.
- Base compatibility:Fits common Hochiki detector/sounder bases such as YBN-R/3, YBN-R/3(SCI) and YBO-BS for fast installation and the ability to share backboxes with detectors or sounders.
- Certifications and compliance:Designed to meet EN54-23. Check the device datasheet for the exact classification and LPCB/EN certificate numbers for your chosen coverage variant.
Electrical and operational benefits are also notable. The device exhibits very low quiescent current (~240 A typical, 300 A max) and modest alarm and poll currents (alarm ~4.3 mA typical / 5.0 mA max; poll ~22 mA family typical). Typical loop supply range for CHQ family devices is approximately 17 17 17 41 V DC (confirm on datasheet).
Installation and commissioning are straightforward for qualified technicians: addressing can be done using a handheld programmer (TCH-B100) or via the control panel CIE, and flash rate and light level are configurable to meet site requirements and regulatory constraints. Safetywise, installers should isolate loop power before wiring and follow the device datasheet and relevant local regulations (for example BS 5839 in the UK) for fire alarm installation.
Use cases and scenarios where this product excels
The CHQ-CB/WLWHT is well suited for a range of environments and scenarios where a visible, reliable alarm is needed along with addressable control and low wiring complexity:
- Commercial and retail spaces:In well-lit shops, malls and showrooms where audible alarms may be masked by background noise, a bold visual alarm helps ensure staff and customers are alerted to incidents quickly.
- Healthcare facilities:Hospitals and clinics often require visual alarms to notify patients (including those with hearing impairments) and staff. The ability to select light output and coverage variant helps meet the varied sightline requirements of corridors, wards and waiting areas.
- Education buildings:Schools and universities benefit from clear, visible alarm signals across classrooms, corridors and assembly spaces, particularly for evacuation of students who may not respond to sound alone.
- Offices and high-occupancy areas:Open-plan offices, call-centres and conference facilities where ambient noise levels might be high or where occupants may be wearing headphones.
- Accessible buildings and regulated installations:Where compliance with disability and fire-safety regulations requires visual notification devices as part of the alarm strategy.
Because the CHQ-CB/WLWHT is loop-powered and addressable, it is particularly attractive for retrofit projects or installations where adding separate power supplies would be impractical or costly. Its small footprint and base compatibility reduce labour and material costs by allowing use of existing detector backboxes.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When choosing a visual alarm device there are several factors to consider: certification and coverage (EN54-23 classification), optical performance, power consumption, integration with the fire system, and physical compatibility with existing mounting hardware.
Compared with conventional non-addressable VADs, the CHQ-CB/WLWHT offers the advantage of individual device supervision and control via the addressable loop, meaning faults and status are reported per-device rather than per-circuit. This improves maintenance efficiency and reduces the time to locate and rectify faults.
Against competitive addressable VADs from other well-known manufacturers, the CHQ-CB/WLWHT's strengths are its integration with Hochiki ESP panels and bases (streamlining installation for sites already using Hochiki equipment), the high-intensity LED with a specialized Fresnel-style optic for improved visibility, and multiple coverage options that simplify code-compliant spacing. Some alternative models may offer similar features but differ in power draw, lens design or base compatibility; selecting the right device often comes down to the control panel ecosystem and the required EN54-23 coverage classification.
For projects prioritising minimal loop current draw, confirm the typical current figures against other models: the CHQ family is designed to be efficient, but exact comparisons rely on datasheet values. For installations needing bespoke flash patterns or higher IP ratings for harsher environments, alternative products with extended environmental ratings or configurable signalling patterns may be appropriate—again, specification matching is essential.
Customer feedback and testimonials
Below are representative, anonymised pieces of feedback from installers and facility managers who have chosen addressable loop-powered ceiling beacons in installations similar to those for which the CHQ-CB/WLWHT is intended. These are illustrative summaries of common sentiment rather than verbatim endorsements of a specific serial-numbered device.
- "As an installer, I appreciate devices that fit existing Hochiki bases — it cuts labour time and avoids extra backbox work. The beacon gives a strong, consistent flash and the loop current is very low compared with older units."
- "We installed ceiling beacons in a hospital ward refurbishment. Staff reported better visual notification during drills, and the coverage options made it easy to choose the right model for the space."
- "Commissioning was straightforward using a handheld programmer and the unit integrated perfectly with our ESP control panel. The white lens matches the ceiling finish and blends in better than bulkier units."
Conclusion: why this product is a great choice
TheHochiki CHQ-CB/WLWHT Addressable Loop-Powered Ceiling Beaconoffers a practical balance of certification, performance and installer-friendly design. Its EN54-23 compliance, multiple coverage options and high-intensity LED with a Fresnel-style lens deliver dependable visual notification across a broad range of indoor applications. Loop-powered addressability reduces wiring complexity and enables precise device supervision, helping building managers and service teams maintain safer, more auditable systems.
For projects already using Hochiki ESP panels and bases, the CHQ-CB/WLWHT is a particularly efficient choice that minimises installation time while providing configurable flash and light levels to match site needs. Always confirm exact electrical and certification details on the product datasheet for the specific variant you plan to use, and ensure installation is carried out by a suitably qualified person in line with local regulations.
With its thoughtful optical design, low current draw and compatibility with existing infrastructure, the CHQ-CB/WLWHT is an attractive option for anyone specifying visual alarm devices for commercial, healthcare, education or other regulated environments.
