Introduction: Fike TwinflexPro2 4‑Zone Twinflex Fire Panel — key features at a glance
The Fike TwinflexPro2 4‑Zone Twinflex Fire Alarm Panel (part number 505‑0004) is a purpose‑built conventional fire alarm control panel that brings intelligent functionality into a compact, cost‑aware package. Designed for smaller commercial and residential installations, the TwinflexPro2 uses Fike's Twinflex two‑wire architecture to carry both detection and sounder circuits on a single screened 2‑core per zone. This approach reduces cable runs and simplifies installation while preserving reliable alarm signalling and monitoring.
- 4 onboard zonessupporting up to 32 Twinflex devices per zone.
- Single screened 2‑core wiringfor detection and sounders on the same pair.
- 4×20 character LCD and keypadfor local configuration and status feedback.
- Monitoring and programmabilityincluding a 500‑event log, programmable day/night modes, alarm confirmation and delay.
- Communication and expandabilityvia RS‑485 for up to eight repeaters.
- EN54‑referenced power supplywith monitored outputs and relays for integration into building management or third‑party systems.
Detailed specifications and benefits
- Model: TwinflexPro2
- Part number: 505‑0004
- Zones (onboard): 4
- Devices per zone: Up to 32 Twinflex devices
- Wiring: Single screened 2‑core per zone (Twinflex 2‑wire)
- Display: 4 × 20 character LCD
- Event log: 500 events
- Sounder outputs: 2 monitored configurable outputs
- Relays / inputs: Volt‑free fire & fault relays; 2 multifunction inputs; 1 monitored input
- Communications: RS‑485 (up to 8 repeater panels)
- Power / standby: Integral EN54‑compliant PSU; requires 2 × 12V 3.2Ah batteries (typical 72 h standby)
- Detection modes: 7 detector modes (smoke/heat variants)
- Standards / Compliance: CPR / EN54 referenced (see Fike datasheet/Declaration of Performance)
The specifications translate directly into practical advantages for installers, end users and facilities managers. The Twinflex two‑wire architecture can dramatically reduce the amount of cabling required compared with traditional separate detection and sounder circuits, which lowers material costs and speeds up installation. Onboard intelligence — such as automatic distinction between detector alarms and manual call‑point activations, selectable detector modes and alarm confirmation features — helps reduce false alarms and tailors responses to the risk profile of the site.
The 4×20 LCD and keypad make local commissioning, fault finding and daily checks straightforward. A 500‑event log records system history for fault analysis and compliance reporting. Monitored sounder outputs and volt‑free relays enable reliable interfacing to external systems like access control, lifts or building management systems, while RS‑485 communications allow remote repeaters and status distribution across a small campus or multi‑entrance facility.
Use cases and scenarios where the TwinflexPro2 excels
The TwinflexPro2 is tailored to projects that require a standards‑referenced conventional panel with smarter wiring options and good configurability. Typical applications include:
- Small retail units and shops:single or multi‑level shops benefit from fewer cable runs and the ability to carry detection and sounder circuits together on a single screened pair per zone.
- Small offices and commercial suites:suites within a larger building, standalone offices and small open‑plan spaces where a compact panel delivers full functionality without unnecessary complexity.
- Multi‑occupancy residential buildings:maisonettes, small apartment blocks and houses of multiple occupation where compliance, monitoring and cost control are all priorities.
- Refurbishments and retrofits:the Twinflex approach reduces disruption during rewires because fewer cores need to be run through existing containment.
- Community buildings and places of worship:where budget and simplicity are important but EN54‑referenced equipment is still required.
- Small education or care facilities:where straightforward zoning, event logging and reliable alarms are essential for occupant safety.
Additionally, the RS‑485 repeater capability is useful for sites with multiple entrances or reception points that need visible alarm status without running full new cabling back to the main panel location.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When selecting a fire alarm panel, customers typically weigh conventional panels, addressable systems and other two‑wire/twin‑wire solutions. The TwinflexPro2 occupies a niche between basic conventional panels and more complex addressable systems.
- Versus basic conventional panels:Compared with simple conventional panels, the TwinflexPro2 offers more onboard intelligence, larger event logging, monitored sounder outputs and the convenience of Twinflex two‑wire wiring. This makes it a better option where reduced cabling and improved diagnostics are required.
- Versus addressable systems:Addressable systems provide individual device addresses and more granular fault/isolation capability, which is ideal for larger or more complex sites. However, addressable systems are more expensive and typically require more specialist commissioning. For smaller sites where zone‑level information is sufficient, the TwinflexPro2 provides a cost‑effective alternative with many advanced features but lower procurement and installation costs.
- Versus other two‑wire panels:Several manufacturers offer two‑wire detector/sounder solutions. The TwinflexPro2 stands out through its EN54‑referenced power supply, RS‑485 repeater support, 500‑event log and flexible detector modes. These features give it an edge when installers require a compact, standards‑referenced panel with good configurability.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on site complexity, budget, desired level of diagnostics and future expansion plans. The TwinflexPro2 is a strong contender when conventional zoning is adequate and installer time or cabling budgets are constrained.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
There are no formal customer testimonials supplied with the product brief. However, typical feedback themes reported by installers and small business customers who choose Twinflex style panels include:
- "Installation speed": reduced cable runs and familiar conventional wiring make installations quicker than comparable wired systems with separate detection and sounder circuits.
- "Simplicity of commissioning": the 4×20 LCD and keypad, together with pre‑programmed detector modes, make initial configuration straightforward.
- "Reliability and integration": monitored outputs and volt‑free relays are appreciated for integration to external systems and for clear, dependable alarm signalling.
- "Value for money": installers often cite the balance between functionality and cost as a key benefit for small commercial projects.
For verified reviews and case studies, consult Fike distributors or independent installation partners who can share real‑world experiences from completed projects.
Conclusion: why the Fike TwinflexPro2 is a great choice
The Fike TwinflexPro2 4‑Zone Twinflex Fire Alarm Panel is a pragmatic, well‑specified solution for small commercial and residential projects that need reliable fire detection without the cost and complexity of full addressable systems. Its Twinflex two‑wire architecture reduces cabling and installation time, while the onboard intelligence, event logging and monitored outputs provide the operational functionality expected of modern panels.
Standout reasons to consider the TwinflexPro2 include its compact form factor, support for up to 32 devices per zone, EN54‑referenced power supply, RS‑485 repeater support and a user‑friendly LCD/keypad interface. These features make it suitable for a wide range of applications from shops and offices to multi‑occupancy dwellings and small community facilities.
Before purchase and installation, consult the Fike datasheet and Declaration of Performance for full standards and certification details, and ensure installation is carried out by a competent fire alarm engineer in accordance with local codes (for example, BS 5839 series in the UK). Also verify standby battery sizing and any optional external battery enclosures if extended autonomy is required.
For budget guidance, the TwinflexPro2 (part number 505‑0004) is positioned as a cost‑effective panel for smaller sites. Contact authorised Fike distributors for current pricing, lead times and warranty information to ensure the product meets your specific project requirements.
In short, if you need a compact, standards‑referenced conventional panel that reduces wiring complexity while retaining useful diagnostic and integration features, the Fike TwinflexPro2 is well worth considering.
