Introduction to the Hikvision AX‑Pro Wireless Carbon Monoxide Detector
Hikvision DS‑PDCO‑E‑WEis a ceiling‑mount wireless carbon monoxide (CO) detector engineered as a peripheral for AX‑Pro alarm systems. Designed to combine reliable CO sensing with two‑way RF reporting and a local audible alarm, this detector brings continuous life‑safety monitoring to homes and commercial sites. Key features include a dedicated CO sensor, a built‑in siren of at least 85 dB at 3 m, AES‑128 encrypted two‑way communication on the 868 MHz band, and long sensor battery life (up to 10 years in standalone mode).
Key features at a glance
- Dedicated CO detection:Continuous monitoring for carbon monoxide with threshold alerts and local alarm indication.
- Integrated audible and visual alarm:≥85 dB siren at 3 m plus a red LED alarm indicator for immediate local notification.
- Two‑way RF communication:868 MHz wireless with AES‑128 encryption for secure reporting to AX‑Pro panels and compatible receivers.
- Long life sensor and batteries:Up to 10 years sensor life in standalone operation; typical ~5 years when operating in RF mode.
- Installer‑friendly enrolment and health checks:Power‑up, Remote ID and QR code enrolment methods, plus signal strength, temperature indication and self‑health checks.
- Compact ceiling form factor:Designed for ceiling mounting (Ø120 × 42 mm), unobtrusive and easy to deploy.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The Hikvision DS‑PDCO‑E‑WE is built with a clear focus on safety, integration and ease of installation. Below are the core specification areas and the practical benefits they deliver.
- Detection method:Carbon monoxide (CO) sensor — specifically tuned for reliable detection of CO accumulation, helping to warn occupants before concentrations become dangerous.
- Buzzer and LED indicator:A local buzzer rated ≥85 dB at 3 m ensures attention in occupied spaces, complemented by a red LED for visual confirmation during alarm events.
- Local + remote reporting:The detector sounds locally while also reporting alarms to the AX‑Pro panel via two‑way RF, enabling central monitoring, alarm escalation and integration with other system responses (lighting, notifications, etc.).
- Two‑way RF transmission (868 MHz WE variant):Enables both reporting to and receiving acknowledgements from the control panel, improving reliability and reducing false positives related to communication failures.
- Range:Up to 1.6 km in open field conditions — realistic indoor range will be reduced by walls and building materials, but the long range supports larger properties and flexible placement.
- Encryption:AES‑128 ensures that RF communications are secure, meeting modern expectations for system security and reducing the risk of spoofing or tampering.
- Batteries:The CO sensing element is powered by non‑replaceable Energizer L91 × 2 (typical 3 V) with the RF wireless using a replaceable CR123A × 1. This separation balances longevity of the sensor with practical field replaceability for communications power.
- Battery life:Up to 10 years in standalone mode and approximately 5 years when actively communicating via RF — this minimises maintenance frequency while keeping monitoring effective.
- Operating temperature:−10 °C to 50 °C, suitable for typical indoor environments.
- Humidity:10%–90% RH (non‑condensing), supporting most residential and commercial use cases.
- Form factor:Ceiling mount (Ø120 × 42 mm), weight 194.5 g — compact, low profile and intended to be positioned where CO naturally accumulates.
Benefits for installers and end users
The DS‑PDCO‑E‑WE combines device reliability with system integration features that make it attractive to both installers and building owners. Installers benefit from multiple enrolment methods (power‑up, Remote ID, QR code), simplified health monitoring and long service intervals. End users receive continuous CO protection with immediate local alerts, plus the reassurance of central reporting and secure communications.
Use cases and scenarios where this detector excels
This detector is suited to a wide range of installations where CO risk exists and integrated alarm reporting is desired.
- Residential homes:Ideal for houses with gas boilers, fireplaces, attached garages, or any fuel‑burning appliances. Ceiling placement provides effective early detection of dangerous CO build‑up.
- Multi‑dwelling buildings and managed properties:When integrated with AX‑Pro systems, the detector provides centralised reporting and logging — useful in apartments, student housing and managed rentals.
- Small commercial premises:Offices, small retail units, cafes and restaurants with cooking equipment benefit from automated monitoring and central alerts to reduce occupant risk and liability.
- Installations where long maintenance intervals are critical:Sites where frequent battery replacement is impractical (e.g., high ceilings, hard‑to‑access condos) will appreciate the long sensor life and reduced RF battery swaps.
- Systems requiring secure RF communications:Facilities requiring encrypted reporting to a control panel — such as healthcare clinics, childcare centres or corporate sites — will gain from AES‑128 protection on the RF link.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When compared with standalone consumer CO alarms, the Hikvision DS‑PDCO‑E‑WE stands out for system integration and secure two‑way RF reporting. Consumer units may offer long battery life and loud alarms but typically lack remote enrolment, encrypted system reporting and central monitoring features.
Against other professional wireless CO detectors, the DS‑PDCO‑E‑WE competes strongly on several fronts:
- Integration:It is designed specifically as an AX‑Pro peripheral, offering plug‑and‑play compatibility for installers using that ecosystem. Competing detectors may require additional gateways or lack direct panel integration.
- Security:AES‑128 encrypted two‑way RF is increasingly expected in professional installations; some lower‑cost alternatives still use unencrypted or one‑way links, increasing vulnerability to tampering.
- Battery strategy:The combination of long‑life sensor batteries and a replaceable RF cell strikes a balance between minimal maintenance and operational flexibility. Some rivals either force full device replacement when batteries age or offer shorter lifespans.
- Range and reliability:With up to 1.6 km open‑field range and two‑way communication, the unit supports larger properties and robust link verification compared with one‑way transmitters that cannot confirm delivery.
However, buyers should confirm regional RF compatibility — the DS‑PDCO‑E‑WE is specified for 868 MHz (WE variant), which is intended for Europe. In markets using other frequency bands (e.g., 915 MHz in some regions), ensure you select the correct regional SKU or alternate model.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
While individual customer testimonials vary by installation, common themes reported by installers and system integrators include:
- "Straightforward enrolment and reliable reporting to AX‑Pro panels," — installers appreciate multiple pairing methods and consistent RF performance.
- "Reduced maintenance workload due to long sensor life," — facilities managers note fewer service visits compared with older battery‑powered detectors.
- "Clear local alerts and integration with central monitoring provide peace of mind for occupants," — end users value the dual local + remote alarm behavior.
These observations align with the device's design goals: to provide dependable CO detection with professional system compatibility.
Practical considerations before purchase
- Regional RF compliance:Confirm the 868 MHz frequency is appropriate for your country; select regional variants where required and ensure local radio approvals are met.
- Installation location:Follow manufacturer guidance for ceiling mounting and siting relative to fuel‑burning appliances to ensure timely detection.
- Maintenance plan:Even with long battery life, schedule periodic checks through the AX‑Pro panel and visual inspections to confirm the detector is operational and free from obstruction or contamination.
- Cost considerations:Priced for professional installations, this unit carries a suggested retail price of around 99.99 (currency dependent), reflecting system integration features and long service life.
Conclusion: why the Hikvision DS‑PDCO‑E‑WE is a strong choice
The Hikvision AX‑Pro Wireless Carbon Monoxide Detector DS‑PDCO‑E‑WE is a robust, installer‑friendly CO detector tailored to integrated alarm systems. It pairs reliable CO sensing and a loud local alarm with secure AES‑128 two‑way RF reporting and long sensor life — attributes that reduce maintenance, improve occupant safety and simplify integration into monitored AX‑Pro environments. For homeowners, property managers and installers seeking a ceiling‑mounted CO detector that balances performance, security and low upkeep, the DS‑PDCO‑E‑WE is a compelling option, provided the 868 MHz regional specification matches local requirements.
Display tag:10yr Sensor
