Introduction to the Nittan EV-PYS Addressable Photoelectric Smoke Detector
The Nittan EV-PYS is an Evolution-protocol analogue addressable photoelectric (optical) smoke detector with an integrated audible sounder. Designed for modern commercial and residential fire detection systems, the EV-PYS combines a sensitive PY optical sensing chamber with a built-in sounder and omnidirectional LED indication to deliver reliable detection, clear local alarm notification, and efficient loop loading. With EN54-7 and EN54-3 certifications and compatibility with Evolution FSK protocol systems, this detector is aimed at installers, system designers and building managers seeking a compact, standards-compliant solution that reduces installation complexity.
- Integrated audible alert:built-in sounder (manufacturer stated ~85 dB(A) at device alarm current).
- PY photoelectric chamber:enhanced light-scattering detection with stainless-steel micromesh for insect and dust protection.
- Addressable:Evolution FSK protocol with EEPROM addressing; can drive EV-PYSVAD visual alarm base using a single loop address.
- Adjustable sensitivity:three sensitivity settings plus automatic drift compensation.
- Visual indication:omnidirectional 360° LED for clear local alarm signaling.
- Low quiescent current:200 µA design to minimise loop loading.
- Operating voltage:24–38 Vdc suitable for most addressable control panels.
Detailed specifications and the benefits they deliver
Understanding the EV-PYS specifications helps explain how the device performs in real installations and why those specifications matter to installers and end users.
- Type:Photoelectric (optical) addressable smoke detector with integrated sounder. Benefit: Photoelectric sensors are particularly effective at detecting smouldering fires and smoke from slow-developing combustions often seen in offices, corridors and storage areas.
- Model:EV-PYS. Benefit: Part of Nittan's Evolution family with proven compatibility and support.
- Protocol / Addressing:Evolution FSK with EEPROM addressing. Benefit: Reliable communication on Evolution loops and straightforward addressing for commissioning.
- Compatibility:Drives EV-PYSVAD visual alarm base using a single address. Benefit: Integrates visual alarm devices (VADs) without consuming additional loop addresses—a useful space- and cost-saving feature when combined audible/visual notification is required.
- LED Indication:Omniview 360° LED. Benefit: Ensures alarm condition is visible from any approach angle, improving occupant awareness.
- Operating voltage:24–38 Vdc. Benefit: Compatible with typical addressable fire panels and power supplies.
- Quiescent current:200 µA. Benefit: Low standby current reduces loop loading, allowing more devices per loop and improving overall system power efficiency.
- Alarm current (LED):5.2 mA;Alarm current (sounder):3.5 mA. Benefit: Predictable current draw during alarm events simplifies loop and power budgeting during system design.
- Sounder output:85 dB(A) (manufacturer stated). Benefit: Adequate local audible level for many protected spaces, meeting EN54-3 performance criteria when sited correctly.
- Sensitivity settings:Three manual sensitivity options plus automatic drift compensation. Benefit: Installers can tune sensitivity to site conditions and rely on drift compensation to reduce nuisance alarms and maintenance frequency.
- Standards:EN54-7 (optical) and EN54-3 (sounders). Benefit: Conformance to widely accepted European standards helps ensure regulatory acceptance and consistent performance.
Each specification reflects design choices that balance detection performance, reliability and total cost of ownership. The PY photoelectric chamber with stainless-steel micromesh reduces contamination from insects and dust, lessening false alarms and extending periods between cleaning. EEPROM addressing and Evolution protocol compatibility simplify commissioning and system maintenance. The built-in sounder and 360° LED reduce the need for auxiliary alarm devices at the detector location, saving on equipment costs and installation time.
Use cases and scenarios where the EV-PYS excels
The EV-PYS is particularly well-suited to environments where reliable visual and audible local notification is desired together with addressable detection intelligence. Typical scenarios include:
- Offices and commercial buildings:Photoelectric detection excels at sensing smouldering fires from electrical faults, furniture or cables—common ignition types in office spaces. The integrated sounder and omnidirectional LED make the EV-PYS a compact, all-in-one choice for general areas and corridors.
- Corridors and escape routes:Clear, local alarm notification along escape routes is critical. The EV-PYS combined with a VAD base (single-address operation) offers both sound and visual signaling without additional loop addresses.
- Plant rooms and enclosed service spaces:Where wiring runs and space for devices are limited, the low quiescent current and integrated sounder reduce wiring complexity and power consumption.
- Mixed-use or retrofit projects:The single-address VAD capability and compact design simplify upgrades in existing Evolution systems—especially where adding separate sounders or beacons would be costly or impractical.
- Areas prone to contamination:The PY chamber’s stainless-steel micromesh helps protect the sensing chamber from dust and insects, making the detector more reliable in less-than-pristine environments (within the constraints of detector siting guidance).
How the EV-PYS compares with similar products
When comparing the EV-PYS to other detector types and market alternatives, consider functionality, installation efficiency and lifecycle costs.
Addressable detectors like the EV-PYS provide individual device monitoring, fault reporting and precise event location on the loop—advantages over conventional detectors that only indicate zone-level alarms. Addressable devices simplify troubleshooting and reduce time to isolate and resolve issues.
Many addressable photoelectric detectors require separate sounders or bell devices to provide local audible warnings. The EV-PYS’s integrated sounder and omnidirectional LED reduce component count, installation time and potential wiring complexity. The ability to drive a VAD base using a single address is another integration advantage versus detector-plus-separate-VAD setups that consume multiple addresses.
Ionization detectors respond more quickly to fast-flaming fires; heat detectors respond to temperature rise but are less sensitive to smoke. For typical office and corridor applications where smouldering, smoky fires are a primary concern, the photoelectric EV-PYS is often the preferred choice. For environments with frequent aerosols, steam or highly dusty conditions, alternate technologies or special housings might be more appropriate.
In the marketplace there are many addressable optical detectors that offer integrated sounders, robust chambers and protocol-specific features. The EV-PYS stands out through its combination of Evolution FSK protocol integration, PY chamber with stainless steel micromesh, VAD base single-address support and low quiescent current. Buyers should compare EN54 certifications, sound output, current draw and commissioning features when evaluating alternatives.
Customer feedback and typical reviews
While individual experiences vary by site and installer, recurring themes in professional feedback for detectors with the EV-PYS profile include:
- Installers:"The single-address VAD compatibility and integrated sounder save time and reduce wiring—particularly useful on retrofit jobs where loop addresses are at a premium."
- Facility managers:"Good local audibility and 360° LED visibility, combined with reduced nuisance alarms thanks to the micromesh chamber, have reduced calls and maintenance visits."
- Fire-safety consultants:"EN54-7 and EN54-3 certification gives confidence for specification. The low quiescent current helps when planning large loops."
These statements are representative examples of feedback often reported by professionals using devices with similar capabilities. Actual experiences should be validated on a per-project basis and by reviewing installation and commissioning reports.
Conclusion: Why choose the EV-PYS?
The Nittan EV-PYS Addressable Photoelectric Smoke Detector with Integrated Sounder offers a compelling mix of detection performance, local alarm capability and installation efficiency. Key reasons to consider the EV-PYS include:
- Integrated functionality:Sounder and omnidirectional LED reduce the need for separate alarm devices and simplify wiring and addressing.
- Reliable photoelectric sensing:PY chamber and micromesh reduce contamination and false alarms while providing sensitive detection of smouldering fires.
- Standards compliance:EN54-7 and EN54-3 certification supports regulatory acceptance in many jurisdictions.
- Efficient loop performance:Low quiescent current and predictable alarm currents simplify system design and enable more devices per loop.
- Cost-effectiveness:With a suggested price of 34.99 (cost price 32.50 equivalent), the EV-PYS delivers integrated features that can reduce the total installed cost compared with detector-plus-sounder alternatives.
For projects that require an addressable, EN54-certified optical smoke detector with built-in audible notification and flexible addressing options, the EV-PYS is a strong candidate. As with any life-safety product, selection, siting, installation and commissioning should be carried out by qualified professionals following the manufacturer datasheet and local regulations to ensure optimal performance and compliance.