Introduction to the Morley‑IAS HI‑485 Communication Module (PCB)
The Morley‑IAS HI‑485 Communication Module PCB (part number 795-038-001) is a plug‑in communications expansion card designed for ZX series intelligent addressable fire alarm control panels. Built to provide a robust, high‑integrity RS‑485 interface, this module enables reliable panel networking, connections to repeaters, remote I/O and integration with third‑party front ends. Its compact PCB form factor, optical isolation and support for Class‑A and Class‑B topologies make it a practical choice for medium to large installations where dependable alarm signalling and network integrity are critical.
Key features at a glance
- Hi‑485 (high‑integrity) RS‑485 interfaceoptimized for closed‑loop fire system networks.
- Plug‑in PCBspecifically designed for Morley‑IAS / Honeywell ZX series panels.
- Optically isolated serial portsto reduce interference and improve fault tolerance.
- Multiple RS‑485 ports(3 reported for the HI‑485 variant) to support network expansion and peripheral devices.
- Supports Class‑A and Class‑B topologies(refer to the official datasheet for wiring options and best practices).
- Typical maximum bus lengthup to approximately 1,200 m per channel when using appropriate cable and installation methods.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the technical details of the 795-038-001 helps specify it correctly for site requirements. Below are the primary specification categories and how they translate into real‑world benefits.
- Part number:795-038-001.
- Product type:HI‑485 communication module (PCB only).
- Compatibility:Designed for Morley‑IAS / Honeywell ZX series intelligent addressable control panels.
Benefit: a direct fit and tested interface for ZX series panels reduces engineering time and minimizes the risk of compatibility issues during installation.
- Supply voltage:Derived from the host panel (typically 18–28 V DC).
- Typical current:≈ 40 mA @ 24 V DC (typical).
- Fault current:Up to ≈ 100 mA under certain fault conditions.
- Relay/contact rating:1 A @ 24 V DC for any volt‑free contacts provided.
Benefit: low typical current draw means the module can be added to existing ZX panels without major changes to the panel power budget in most installations. Knowing fault current figures helps designers size fusing and monitor behavior under fault conditions.
- Interface:Hi‑485 high‑integrity RS‑485 — a robust balanced serial protocol tuned for fire‑alarm networks.
- Ports:RS‑485 balanced transmission ports (3 reported for HI‑485 variant).
- Maximum bus length:Typically up to ≈ 1,200 m per channel with suitable cable and installation practice.
- Isolation:Optical isolation on serial ports to reduce the chance that electrical noise or ground loops will disrupt network communications.
Benefit: optical isolation and the HI‑485 protocol improve network resilience, reduce nuisance communication faults and allow longer runs where needed for multi‑building or campus‑style systems.
- Operating temperature:0 °C to 49 °C.
- Relative humidity:10%–93% RH non‑condensing.
- Form factor:Plug‑in PCB module, typical weight ≈ 150 g.
- Mounting:Fitted into ZX series panel expansion slot.
Benefit: standard operating ranges and a compact form factor make the module suitable for most conventional electrical room and plantroom installations where ZX panels are used.
Use cases and scenarios where the module excels
The HI‑485 module is intended for sites that require reliable, engineered fire alarm networking and peripheral integration. Typical scenarios include:
- Multi‑panel sites:Shopping centres, hospitals, universities and large commercial campuses where multiple ZX panels must be networked together for centralized alarm management and coordinated responses.
- Remote devices and repeaters:Where repeaters, remote I/O, or operator front ends must be connected over long distances; the module’s balanced RS‑485 ports and long bus capability are beneficial here.
- Higher‑integrity applications:Critical facilities such as data centres, control rooms or safety‑critical industrial sites that demand improved noise immunity and fault tolerance provided by HI‑485 and optical isolation.
- Upgrades and phased installations:Projects where additional panels or expanders will be added over time — plug‑in modules enable staged upgrades without wholesale replacement of existing control equipment.
Comparisons with similar products
When choosing a communications module, decision factors typically include compatibility, electrical isolation, topology support and physical form factor. Here’s how the Morley‑IAS HI‑485 PCB compares at a conceptual level to common alternatives:
- Standard RS‑485 adapters are widely available but may lack HIS (high‑integrity) protocol features and optical isolation. The HI‑485 module is designed specifically for reliable, closed‑loop fire system networks and includes optical isolation for improved immunity to noise and ground faults.
- External gateways offer flexibility and can be moved between systems, but they require separate enclosures, power supplies and wiring. The plug‑in PCB approach keeps wiring neat inside the ZX panel, simplifies installation and reduces external footprint — at the cost of being panel‑specific.
- Other manufacturers provide communication solutions with similar objectives, but integrating a module designed by the panel manufacturer (Morley‑IAS/Honeywell) typically minimizes compatibility or protocol translation issues and ensures tested performance on ZX series control electronics.
Customer testimonials and reviews
At the time of writing there are no specific customer testimonials or verified user reviews provided with this product brief. For real‑world feedback, installers and specifiers should review distributor listings, industry forums or contact reference sites where ZX panels and HI‑485 networks have been deployed. Certified Morley‑IAS installers and system integrators can also provide case studies and reference installations on request.
Safety, installation and compliance notes
This product is a circuit board expansion module and must be installed into the designated expansion slot of a compatible ZX series panel. Installation, commissioning and any cabling should be completed by a qualified fire‑alarm engineer in accordance with local codes and manufacturer installation instructions. The manufacturer’s datasheet must be consulted for wiring diagrams, isolation requirements and confirmation of approvals such as CE/UKCA where applicable. Do not assume compliance without checking the official documentation.
Pricing and procurement
Suggested price: 429.00 (as provided). Cost price: 348.67 (as provided). Warranty: none specified in the supplied data — verify warranty terms with the supplier or manufacturer prior to purchase.
Conclusion: why choose the 795-038-001 HI‑485 module?
The Morley‑IAS HI‑485 Communication Module PCB (795-038-001) is a focused, purpose‑built communications expansion for ZX series intelligent addressable panels. Its high‑integrity RS‑485 interface, optical isolation and multi‑port capability make it particularly suitable where network resilience, longer cable runs and integration of repeaters or remote I/O are required. As a plug‑in PCB designed by the panel manufacturer, it reduces integration risk and simplifies installation compared with add‑on external gateways. For system designers, installers and facility managers specifying ZX series systems for medium to large sites, the HI‑485 module is a practical choice to achieve reliable, scalable fire alarm networking — provided the installer follows the manufacturer’s datasheet and local regulatory requirements.
