Introduction to the C‑TEC ActiV C4416 and its key features
The C‑TEC ActiV C4416 is a conventional photoelectric (optical) smoke detector head designed for use on conventional fire alarm circuits. Built around a photoelectric sensing chamber with an infra‑red LED and photodiode, the C4416 is optimised to detect slow‑burning, smouldering fires — the type of fires that can produce significant smoke before open flame. Certified to EN54‑7 by Intertek, the detector delivers reliable performance for residential rooms, escape routes, corridors and similar enclosed spaces where prompt smoke detection is essential.
- EN54‑7 third‑party certification(Intertek) for standardised performance.
- Photoelectric sensing chambertuned for smouldering fires (infra‑red source + photodiode).
- Drift compensation / auto sensitivitythat helps maintain detection performance over time despite contamination.
- 360° LED indication— twin ultra‑bright red LED strips for clear local alarm visibility.
- Low quiescent current(approx. 30 μA @ 24 V DC), suitable for monitored two‑wire conventional loops.
- Requires an ActiV base(C4408 / C4408D / C4408R) which provides options for diode, relay or remote LED outputs.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The C4416 combines compact physical dimensions, a standards‑backed sensing solution and installer‑friendly characteristics. Below are the main technical attributes and why they matter in practical installations.
- Supply voltage:9–33 V DC (some sources list 6–33 V DC — consult the manufacturer datasheet if minimum voltage is critical).
- Supply wiring:2‑wire monitored, polarity sensitive, compatible with conventional fire circuits.
- Quiescent current:~30 μA @ 24 V DC — very low standby draw, important for battery life in monitored systems.
- Alarm current:Typically around ~19 mA (varies with voltage; examples include ~11 mA at 9 V), so alarm indication places a modest load on the loop.
- Remote LED output:Available via the compatible base, current‑sourced to the negative line and short‑circuit protected.
- Nominal sensitivity:0.16 dB/m obscuration (EN54‑7:2000 measured) — tuned for smoke densities associated with smouldering combustion.
- Drift compensation:Auto sensitivity calibration helps keep the unit within EN54 tolerances as dust or contamination accumulates.
- Dimensions (head):Ø102.2 mm × depth 37 mm (head only); with base the depth is typically ~57.5 mm.
- Weight:Detector ~99 g; base ~55 g.
- Materials:White polycarbonate housing (UL94 V‑2) with nylon internal parts.
- Indicators:Two ultra‑bright red LED strips (8 mm × 2 mm) providing 360° visibility for easy local identification of an alarm condition.
- Operating temperature:Distributor listings suggest −20 °C to +70 °C; check manufacturer documentation for site‑specific limits.
- IP rating:IP42 (splash protection; not intended for heavy moisture or outdoor exposed use without suitable enclosures).
- Standards compliance:EN54‑7 certification gives designers and specifiers confidence that the detector meets independent performance criteria.
- Reliable detection of smouldering fires:Photoelectric technology is less prone to nuisance alarms from cooking or transient aerosols while remaining sensitive to slow, smoky fires.
- Low power draw:Makes the C4416 suitable for conventional monitored loops where battery backup sizing and loop loading are factors.
- Auto drift compensation:Reduces the need for early replacement or excessive maintenance due to gradual contamination of the sensing chamber.
- Flexible base options:Using the ActiV base family allows installers to add diode isolation, relay contacts or remote LED features without changing the detector head.
Use cases and scenarios where the C4416 excels
The C4416 is especially well suited to environments where early detection of smoke from smouldering materials is a priority, and where a conventional (non‑addressable) system is appropriate. Typical applications include:
- Residential properties:Bedrooms, living rooms, hallways and escape routes where optical detection best balances sensitivity and false alarm rejection.
- Small to medium commercial buildings:Offices, stores and common areas relying on conventional fire loops for cost‑effective protection.
- Care homes and sheltered housing:Areas where occupants may be vulnerable and smouldering fires (e.g., from bedding or furniture) are a primary risk.
- Hotels and short‑stay accommodation:Corridors and sleeping areas where 360° visible indication and standardised performance are desirable.
- Retrofits and refurbishments:The conventional form factor and need for a compatible base make the C4416 straightforward to install where new wiring or loop upgrades are limited.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When choosing a smoke detector, specifiers often compare sensor type (photoelectric vs ionisation vs dual), certification, power consumption and installation flexibility. Here are several comparison points to help position the C4416.
- Photoelectric (optical) detectors like the C4416 are better at detecting smouldering, smoky fires and are generally less prone to nuisance alarms from cooking aerosols. Ionisation detectors respond faster to fast‑flaming fires producing small combustion particles but can be more susceptible to false alarms. Many modern installations favour photoelectric detectors for sleeping areas and escape routes.
- The C4416 is a conventional head and therefore a cost‑effective choice for smaller systems. Addressable detectors (from manufacturers such as Apollo, Hochiki and others) offer zone‑level identification and advanced diagnostics but at higher system and commissioning cost. For many small to medium installations the conventional approach remains appropriate.
- There are several EN54‑7 photoelectric heads on the market from established manufacturers. The decision often comes down to base compatibility, quiescent current, LED visibility and local support. The C4416 is competitive in offering low quiescent current, drift compensation and clear 360° LEDs while integrating with the ActiV base family for installer flexibility.
Customer feedback and installer observations
Direct public testimonials for the C4416 are limited in standard retail listing copy, but common themes reported by installers and facilities managers working with similar ActiV detectors include:
- Ease of installation:Installers appreciate the straightforward head‑and‑base design and the ability to select the base type (diode/relay/remote LED) independently.
- Low maintenance:The drift compensation feature and accessible sensing chamber make routine cleaning and maintenance manageable, and help avoid premature replacement due to contamination.
- Clear local indication:The twin LED strips provide good visibility in corridors and rooms, aiding rapid identification of the triggered detector.
- Reliable performance:EN54‑7 certification and consistent alarm currents are often cited as reasons specifiers select C‑TEC ActiV detectors for compliance projects.
Note: If independent, verifiable customer reviews are required for procurement decisions, request references from distributors or the manufacturer, or consult trade forums and installer networks for anonymised feedback on long‑term performance.
Conclusion: why choose the C‑TEC ActiV C4416
The C‑TEC ActiV C4416 is a strong choice for projects that demand EN54‑7 certified photoelectric detection in a conventional fire alarm architecture. Its key strengths are reliable detection of smouldering fires, low quiescent current for efficient loop design, automatic drift compensation to maintain long‑term sensitivity, and 360° LED indication for clear local alarms. Combined with the flexibility offered by the ActiV base options, the C4416 provides installers and specifiers with a practical, standards‑based solution for residential rooms, escape routes and many general areas in small to medium buildings.
Before specifying or installing, confirm the exact supply voltage range and any site‑specific constraints by consulting the official manufacturer datasheet and Declaration of Performance. Also ensure compliance with local regulations (e.g., BS 5839 in the UK) and follow manufacturer installation instructions for spacing, mounting height and wiring to achieve reliable protection.
