Introduction to the CHQ-DSC2(SCI) Dual Addressable Sounder Controller
CHQ-DSC2(SCI) Dual Sounder Controller (ESP)is an analogue addressable module designed to expand and enhance fire alarm sounder control on ESP loop systems. Compact yet powerful, the CHQ-DSC2(SCI) delivers two independently controllable, fully monitored sounder outputs, an integral short-circuit isolator (SCI) and a monitored auxiliary input. Available as a boxed module or a DIN-rail variant, and with an optional CHQ-BACKBOX to upgrade to IP65, this module is built to suit a wide range of installations where reliable, addressable sounder control is required.
- Two independent monitored sounder circuits with individual open and short fault detection.
- 1 A internal fuse per sounder circuit for appliance protection.
- Integral short-circuit isolator (SCI) on the loop to maintain loop integrity in fault conditions.
- Monitored auxiliary input suitable for local PSU fault reporting or other general-purpose inputs.
- Selectable output modes: continuous drive or synchronised pulsed sounder drive.
- Flexible mounting: boxed or DIN-rail versions; optional CHQ-BACKBOX for IP65 ingress protection.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the CHQ-DSC2(SCI)’s electrical and operational specifications helps explain why it is a practical choice for many system integrators and installers.
- ESP loop voltage:17–41 V DC — compatible with standard ESP loop supply ranges.
- Auxiliary power:Requires a 24 V DC auxiliary supply for powering sounder outputs, keeping loop power and sounder power responsibilities clearly separated.
- Quiescent current:Approximately 350 µA typical — low standby drain on the loop.
- Polling current:Around 22 mA ±20% when polled.
- Maximum loop short-circuit current:1 A with a current in short of 8 mA — helps the device meet robust loop protection requirements.
- Alarm fuse rating:1 A fuse per sounder circuit for localized fault isolation and protection.
- Independent monitoring:Each sounder circuit is monitored for open and short faults, enabling clear diagnostics and fast fault-finding without impacting the other circuit.
- Integral SCI:The built-in short-circuit isolator maintains loop operation past a fault, helping prevent a single wiring issue from causing a full loop failure.
- Auxiliary input monitoring:The monitored auxiliary input can be used for local PSU fault reporting or other site-specific signals, providing additional system awareness.
- Output flexibility:Outputs can be driven continuously or as synchronised pulsed sounder drive, allowing compliance with differing sounder pattern requirements and synchronisation needs across multiple devices.
- Approvals:LPCB and VdS approvals are noted for certain variants. Marine, SIL2 and railway variants exist — confirm the specific variant for its certification and compliance with local regulations.
- Mounting options:Available as a boxed module or DIN-rail variant. Use CHQ-BACKBOX to increase ingress protection to IP65 for harsher environments.
- Installation:Intended for installation by competent personnel following local regulations and the manufacturer’s datasheet. Refer to the official wiring diagrams and EOL resistor values for correct commissioning.
Use cases and scenarios where the CHQ-DSC2(SCI) excels
The CHQ-DSC2(SCI) is versatile and well suited to a variety of applications where addressable sounder control, reliability and fault tolerance are important:
In offices, retail centres and mixed-use buildings, the ability to independently control two sounder circuits enables flexible zoning. For example, separate evacuation signals for different floors or areas can be controlled from a single module, reducing wiring complexity and panel address usage.
The compact module form factor and DIL switch addressing make the CHQ-DSC2(SCI) ideal for retrofits and system expansions where adding dedicated sounder circuits without changing the main panel layout is desired.
With an optional IP65 backbox and DIN-rail variants, the module can be used in light industrial settings, plantrooms and service distribution cabinets where additional environmental protection and robust mounting are required.
Variants with marine, SIL2 or railway approvals are available for projects that require sector-specific certifications. The integral SCI and monitored inputs are valuable in transport or marine contexts where high availability and clear fault reporting are essential.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When considering addressable sounder controllers, installers commonly compare features such as number of outputs, monitoring capabilities, short-circuit isolation, mounting options and approvals. Here is how the CHQ-DSC2(SCI) stacks up in typical comparisons:
Single-output modules are simpler and sometimes cheaper, but a dual-output device like the CHQ-DSC2(SCI) provides two independently monitored circuits from a single address, conserving panel addresses and reducing cabling and enclosure count. For projects needing multiple sounder zones, a dual-output device often results in lower overall system complexity and cost.
Monitored outputs and auxiliary inputs significantly improve maintainability and regulatory compliance, enabling automatic fault reporting for open and short conditions. Non-monitored controllers may be less expensive but offer reduced diagnostic capability and can leave issues undetected until an audit or an incident.
Not all sounder controllers include an integral short-circuit isolator. An integrated SCI, as found on the CHQ-DSC2(SCI), helps maintain loop integrity and prevents a wiring fault from bringing down an entire loop — a strong advantage in larger or critical systems.
Some competitor modules focus on general-purpose use and lack specialist variants (marine, SIL2, railway). The availability of variant-specific approvals for the CHQ-DSC2(SCI) makes it more suitable where certification is required.
Customer feedback and installer perspectives
While individual reviews vary by project and variant, typical installer and system integrator feedback for modules with this feature set includes the following themes:
- "Saves panel addresses and reduced wiring runs when two separate sounder circuits are needed from a single loop address." — common installer observation reflecting real-world deployment benefits.
- "The integral SCI is a major benefit for ensuring loop resilience; it prevents a single zone fault from taking down the whole loop." — often cited by engineers focused on system uptime.
- "Available boxed and DIN-rail variants with an IP65 backbox made it easy to adapt to both cabinet and field-mount installations." — feedback from projects needing flexibility in enclosure choices.
These representative comments reflect the pragmatic benefits installers seek: reliability, flexibility and ease of integration. For official customer testimonials specific to your supplier or project, consult reseller case studies or ask your manufacturer representative.
Conclusion: Why choose the CHQ-DSC2(SCI)?
The CHQ-DSC2(SCI) Dual Addressable Sounder Controller is a compact, feature-rich solution for projects that require reliable, monitored sounder outputs and robust loop protection. Its two independently monitored outputs conserve panel addresses and simplify wiring for multi-zone sounder arrangements. The integral short-circuit isolator enhances loop resilience, while the monitored auxiliary input gives additional system diagnostics. With flexible mounting options and variant approvals for specialist sectors, it suits a wide range of applications from commercial and industrial to marine and transport projects.
For installers and specifiers looking for a versatile addressable sounder controller that prioritises maintainability and operational integrity, the CHQ-DSC2(SCI) is a compelling choice. Always consult the manufacturer datasheet and local regulatory requirements for exact wiring, EOL resistor values and variant-specific approvals before installation.
