Introduction to the product and its key features
Hochiki CHQ-WS2 Addressable Wall Sounder (Red)is a loop-powered, addressable audible device designed for modern commercial fire alarm systems. Built for use on Hochiki ESP analogue/addressable loops, the CHQ-WS2 delivers configurable alarm tones and variable sound levels to meet the needs of a wide range of installations. With a typical sound output range of 90–102 dB(A) at 1 m, 51 EN54‑3 compatible tones, low quiescent current and compatibility with standard Hochiki bases, it is a compact and flexible option for installers and system designers seeking reliable audio signalling.
Key features at a glance
- Loop-powered addressable device for Hochiki ESP systems.
- Adjustable sound output: 90–102 dB(A) ±2 dB(A) at 1 m.
- 51 user-selectable tones compatible with EN54‑3.
- Low standby and sounding current to conserve loop capacity.
- Fits standard YBO‑R/3 or YBO‑R/SCI isolator bases.
- Indoor IP21 rating; upgradeable to IP65 with optional WS2‑WPK weatherproof kit.
- Compact PC‑ABS housing available in red (also white option).
- Approvals listed: EN54‑3, LPCB & VdS (CE/UKCA: insufficient data).
Detailed product specifications and benefits
The CHQ-WS2’s specifications are focused on providing flexible, reliable audible signalling within addressable loop systems while minimising power draw and installation complexity. Below are the technical highlights and the benefits they deliver in real-world use.
- Operating voltage:17–41 V DC — suitable for typical Hochiki loop voltages and tolerant of normal loop voltage variation.
- Loop powered:Yes (Hochiki ESP addressable loop) — no separate power circuit required for the sounder, simplifying cabling and reducing installation cost.
- Standby current:Approximately 150 µA (YBO‑R/3) or 200 µA (YBO‑R/SCI) — very low quiescent draw helps maximise device counts per loop.
- Sounding current:Approximately 2–8 mA depending on selected tone and volume — designed to balance loudness and loop current budget.
- Sound output:90–102 dB(A) ±2 dB(A) at 1 m (typical at ≥24 V DC) — suitable for commercial spaces where clear, high-level alarm tones are required.
- Number of tones:51 user-selectable tones (EN54‑3 compatible) with frequency range 300–2850 Hz — enables selection of culturally or site-appropriate signals and zoning/condition-specific tones.
- Operating temperature:−10 °C to +50 °C — covers most indoor commercial environments.
- Storage temperature:−30 °C to +70 °C.
- Maximum humidity:95% RH non‑condensing (at 40 °C).
- IP rating:IP21 standard; upgradeable to IP65 with optional WS2‑WPK weatherproof kit — offers indoor use by default with a weatherproof option for harsher locations.
- Case material & colour:PC‑ABS in red (also available in white) — durable and visually compliant with standard alarm aesthetics.
- Dimensions & weight:Ø112 × 67 mm (approx), weight ≈152 g — compact profile that sits unobtrusively on walls and standard bases.
- Fits common Hochiki mounting bases (YBO‑R/3 standard or YBO‑R/SCI isolator) — simplifies stocking and ensures plug‑and‑play compatibility with existing Hochiki installations.
- Programmable via the Hochiki handheld programmer — allows installers to set tones and volumes on site without complex toolsets.
- Auto-shutdown support (panel dependent) — can reduce nuisance alarm durations and help protect hearing and system resources when supported by the panel.
- Low current draw and loop powering preserve loop capacity, enabling higher device densities per loop and potentially lowering system cost.
Use cases and scenarios where the CHQ-WS2 excels
The CHQ-WS2 is particularly well suited to a range of light commercial and public-sector environments where addressable audio signalling is required:
- Offices and corporate campuses:Clear, selectable tones and adjustable volume make it easy to match alarm characteristics to different office densities and room acoustics.
- Retail and shopping centres:High sound output and multiple tones support effective mass notification across varied store layouts and ceilings.
- Education and healthcare facilities:Precise tone selection allows for differentiated signals (evacuation vs. alert) and tailor-made approaches for vulnerable occupant groups.
- Light industrial and warehouses:Robust construction and high dB output ensure audible reach in noisy environments, while the isolator base option aids circuit protection.
- Zoned alarm strategies:With 51 selectable tones and panel/programmer configuration, installers can create distinct audio signatures per zone or alarm condition for clearer response actions.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When evaluating the CHQ-WS2 against other addressable wall sounders, several factors typically guide selection: loop compatibility, tone flexibility, sound output, power consumption, mounting options and approvals.
The CHQ-WS2 is designed to integrate seamlessly into Hochiki ESP installations, sharing mounting bases and programming tools with other Hochiki devices. Compared with larger multi-element sounder‑beacon devices, the CHQ-WS2 offers a smaller footprint and lower loop current draw, which can be advantageous where visual signals are provided separately or not required.
- Tone selection:51 EN54‑3 compatible tones is at the higher end of the market, matching or exceeding many competing models.
- Power efficiency:Very low standby currents (≈150–200 µA) are competitive and help increase devices per loop compared with older or higher‑consumption models.
- Mounting and compatibility:Advantageous for installers already standardised on Hochiki bases; cross‑brand retrofits may require different bases or adaptors.
- Approvals:EN54‑3 and listings such as LPCB & VdS are important market differentiators. Confirm CE/UKCA where required for project compliance—manufacturer data currently indicates insufficient data for CE/UKCA status.
Overall, the CHQ-WS2’s combination of tone flexibility, modest power draw and compact design place it favorably against many market alternatives in applications focused on audio signalling rather than combined visual/audio units.
Customer testimonials and reviews
Direct customer testimonials specific to the CHQ-WS2 were not provided with the product data. However, typical feedback themes from installers and end users for devices with similar specifications usually include:
- "Easy integration on existing Hochiki loops — fits the standard bases and programming tool works as expected."
- "Compact and unobtrusive, with a good range of tones — ideal for offices and retail."
- "Low standby current is appreciated when planning loop capacity for large systems."
- "IP65 weatherproof kit option is useful for semi-exposed locations where a weatherproofing solution is needed."
For accurate, project-specific feedback, ask your supplier for references or seek case studies from installations that used the CHQ‑WS2 in comparable environments.
Conclusion — why the Hochiki CHQ-WS2 is a great choice
TheHochiki CHQ-WS2 Addressable Wall Sounderdelivers a focused blend of flexibility, performance and installation-friendly features that make it a strong candidate for many commercial fire alarm projects. Its loop-powered design, low standby current, wide range of selectable tones and robust sound output allow designers to create clear, compliant audible strategies across diverse environments. The ability to fit standard Hochiki bases and be programmed on site reduces installation time and inventory complexity.
While installers should confirm CE/UKCA documentation for projects in regulated jurisdictions and follow all local codes with a qualified fire alarm engineer, the CHQ-WS2’s EN54‑3 compliance and LPCB & VdS listings provide solid third‑party assurance of performance. Priced competitively (suggested price: {54.99} in the supplied data), it represents a practical, adaptable solution where reliable addressable audio signalling is required.
If you need a compact, efficient wall-mounted sounder with strong tone selection and straightforward integration into Hochiki ESP loops, the CHQ-WS2 is worth considering. Contact a certified installer or your Hochiki supplier to confirm compatibility, ordering options (red or white), and any project-specific certification requirements before specifying.
