Introduction to the C-TEC CA416 and its key features
The C-TEC CA416 Addressable Optical Smoke Detector is a purpose-built detector for CAST protocol addressable fire alarm systems. Designed for commercial and residential installations where reliable smoke detection and standards compliance are essential, the CA416 blends photo‑electric sensing technology with practical features such as an on‑board short‑circuit loop isolator, drift compensation and 360° LED indication. Certified to EN54‑7 and EN54‑17 (with EN54‑13 system coverage where applicable), the CA416 is intended to deliver accurate detection, straightforward installation on the CA408 CAST base and seamless integration with C‑TEC addressable panels.
- Optical (photo‑electric) detection using an IR LED and photodiode for reliable smoke sensing.
- Built‑in short‑circuit loop isolator to maintain loop integrity and reduce down‑time.
- Drift compensation and smart false‑alarm reduction for stable, long‑term performance.
- Dual 8 mm × 2 mm red LED strips providing 360° visible alarm indication; programmable status LED and remote LED terminal option.
- Compatibility with the C‑TEC CA408 CAST base (including CA408R relay option).
- LPCB / EN54 certification: EN54‑7 & EN54‑17, and EN54‑13 at system level.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The CA416 combines practical electrical and mechanical design with features aimed at installers and system designers. Below is a breakdown of the detector's main specifications and the benefits they provide in the field.
- Type: Optical (photo‑electric) — IR scatter detection reacts quickly to smouldering fires and smoke particles typically associated with early stages of many common fire types.
- Protocol: C‑TEC CAST addressable — full integration with C‑TEC panels for device-level addressing, status reporting and configuration.
- Sensitivity: 0.16 dB/m — tuned sensitivity for accurate smoke detection while minimising nuisance alarms.
- IP rating: IP42 — suitable for many internal ceiling‑mounted applications in commercial and residential environments.
- Standards: EN54‑7 (smoke detectors), EN54‑17 (short‑circuit isolators) and EN54‑13 at system level where applicable — ensures compliance with widely accepted European fire safety standards.
- Approvals: LPCB certified plus applicable national approvals — helpful for projects that require certified components in their fire detection systems.
- Supply Voltage: 22–40 V DC — compatible with standard CAST loop voltages.
- Quiescent Current: ≈ 370 µA (typical) — low standby current helps preserve loop power budget on large systems.
- Alarm Current: ≈ 5 mA (typical, LEDs on) — modest alarm current including LED indication.
- Wiring: 2‑wire, polarity sensitive on CAST loop — simplifies wiring runs but requires correct orientation during installation.
- Diameter: 102.2 mm; Depth (detector): 37 mm; Depth with base: 57.5 mm — compact ceiling profile for discreet installation.
- Weight: ≈ 99 g (detector); ≈ 154 g (with base) — lightweight construction for easy handling and mounting.
- LEDs: Dual 8 × 2 mm red LED strips provide 360° visibility for alarm conditions and a programmable status LED offers flexible indication modes.
- Remote LED: Terminal available for remote LED connection if local indication is preferred elsewhere in the space.
- Base compatibility: Requires CA408 CAST base; CA408R relay option available for local relay outputs where needed.
- Operating Temp: −20 °C to +85 °C — wide temperature range suits many interior applications.
- Terminals (via base): +VE IN / +VE OUT, remote LED +VE, 0V (x2), screen (x2) — flexible termination options for loop continuity and remote LED wiring.
- Loop isolator: On‑board short‑circuit isolator reduces the impact of wiring faults and keeps unaffected parts of the loop operational.
Benefits in practical terms
The CA416’s optical sensing is particularly effective at detecting the smouldering, smoky fires that can start in upholstery, wiring or insulation. Its drift compensation feature helps the detector maintain reliable performance over time by adjusting for slow changes in sensor response, reducing the need for manual recalibration or unwanted service visits. The on‑board isolator is a notable convenience: instead of needing separate isolator modules, the detector itself protects the loop from a short‑circuit fault, simplifying wiring design and improving system resilience.
Use cases and ideal scenarios
The CA416 is well suited to a range of environments and project types where EN54 certification and addressable detection are required:
- Commercial offices and multi‑tenant buildings — early detection in circulation spaces, meeting rooms and open plan offices with the ability to identify the exact device location on the panel.
- Residential developments and apartment blocks — suitable for common areas and corridors where photo‑electric sensing gives sensible early warning of smouldering fires.
- Retail and hospitality venues — ceiling‑mounted detectors provide unobtrusive detection and the remote LED option allows for clear visual indication at low levels or reception desks.
- Education and healthcare facilities — EN54 certification, stable drift compensation and loop isolator capability make the CA416 an attractive choice for institutions prioritising both safety and system reliability.
- Refurbishment projects where existing C‑TEC CAST panels are in use — drop‑in compatibility on the CA408 base simplifies replacement or expansion of detector circuits.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When compared to other addressable photo‑electric detectors from leading manufacturers, the CA416 stands out for its combination of built‑in loop isolation and EN54‑17 compliance. Many detectors require external loop isolators or rely on panel‑based protection; having the isolator onboard reduces component count and cabling complexity. The CA416’s sensitivity (0.16 dB/m) and drift compensation are competitive with similarly positioned devices from other brands, and the 360° LED strips provide excellent visibility compared with single‑LED designs.
Alternatives from competitors may offer additional features such as integrated heat sensing or different base compatibility. For example, some multi‑criteria detectors combine optical and thermal elements for broader detection profiles, which can be preferable in environments with unusual risk profiles. However, for projects specifically seeking a certified EN54‑7 optical detector with CAST protocol compatibility and on‑board loop isolation, the CA416 provides a focused, compliant solution.
What installers and users say (typical feedback)
While individual reviews vary by project, common installer feedback for the CA416 centers on reliable performance, straightforward installation and the convenience of the built‑in loop isolator. Installers often appreciate the low quiescent current, which helps when planning loop loads on larger systems. Users responsible for system maintenance report that the drift compensation reduces nuisance alarms and lowers routine service requirements. As with all detectors, following the manufacturer’s installation and commissioning instructions and using the specified CA408 base are key to maintaining warranty and certification compliance.
Conclusion: Why choose the CA416?
The C‑TEC CA416 Addressable Optical Smoke Detector is a practical, standards‑compliant choice for projects using CAST addressable panels. It combines effective optical smoke detection with installer‑friendly features — notably an on‑board short‑circuit loop isolator, programmable LED indication and drift compensation — delivering reliable detection performance with reduced system complexity. EN54‑7 and EN54‑17 certification, plus EN54‑13 system coverage where applicable, gives specifiers confidence in regulatory compliance for many European projects.
For contractors, specifiers and building owners seeking a proven optical detector for commercial or residential installations that integrates cleanly into C‑TEC CAST systems, the CA416 is a strong option. Pricewise, with a typical suggested retail price of 32.00 (cost price 26.74), it represents a cost‑effective component when balanced against the time savings of built‑in isolators and the lifecycle benefits of drift compensation and low standby current. Note that the product must be installed on the approved CA408 CAST base (or approved alternatives) and maintained in accordance with manufacturer guidance and local regulations to ensure safe operation and preserve certifications.
