Introduction to the C-TEC XFP501/H and its key features
C-TEC XFP501/His a purpose-built addressable fire alarm control panel designed for small to medium installations that require a reliable, standards-compliant solution with expansion and networking capability. The XFP501/H is a single-loop, Hochiki ESP protocol (H variant) panel that supports up to 32 zone indicators and offers a metal enclosure, keypad or keyswitch access, integral EN54-4 switch-mode power, programmable sounder circuits, multiple inputs and relay outputs, and networkability via two-wire RS-485. With LPCB third-party certification to EN54-2 and EN54-4, the panel is suitable for projects where compliance and proven performance matter.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The XFP501/H balances compact design with practical capability. Key specifications and the benefits they deliver include:
- Single addressable loop (Hochiki ESP)— Supports addressable detectors and devices using the widely adopted Hochiki ESP protocol. This lets installers deploy intelligent detectors that reduce false alarms, allow pinpoint device identification, and simplify maintenance.
- 32 zone indicators— The panel provides clear zone indication and flexible zone programming (dependency, coincidence, day/night modes, investigation and phased evacuation). This makes it easy to configure behaviour for different building types and operational needs.
- Two programmable conventional sounder circuits— Independently programmable lines allow staged evacuation strategies and differentiated alarm tones for separate areas in the building without needing extra equipment.
- Power and battery support— An integral EN54-4/A2 compliant switch-mode power supply (typical 3 A on the 32-zone metal enclosure model) supports system electronics and battery charging. External battery backup is supported (commonly 2 × 12 V; consult the datasheet for recommended Ah). The built-in PSU simplifies wiring and reduces ancillary component requirements.
- Programmable I/O and relays— The panel includes two programmable inputs, one dedicated fault relay and three programmable volt-free changeover relays. These enable integration with building management systems, remote indicators, door release circuits and other site-specific controls.
- Networkability— Two-wire RS-485 networking enables up to eight master XFP panels to work together. This allows the XFP501/H to act standalone or become part of a larger distributed system, sharing events and expanding coverage without complex infrastructure.
- Certifications— LPCB certification to EN54-2 (Control and Indicating Equipment) and EN54-4 (Power Supply) is critical for specification in commercial and public-sector projects across regions recognising these standards.
- Secure enclosure and access options— Metal enclosure with keypad or keyswitch options gives installers and building owners control over access for operation and maintenance.
Together, these specifications produce practical benefits: simple commissioning and servicing, clear status reporting, compatibility with a broad installed base of Hochiki ESP devices, and the ability to expand as a building’s needs grow.
Use cases and scenarios where the XFP501/H excels
The XFP501/H is engineered for projects that need an addressable system with flexibility but do not require multiple loops or extremely large networks. Typical scenarios include:
- Small-to-medium commercial buildings— Offices, small retail outlets, restaurants and training centres benefit from addressable detection and 32-zone indication for clear alarm location and phased evacuation strategies.
- Multi-room or multi-tenanted buildings— Medical suites, dental practices, small clinics, and multi-occupancy retail units can use zone programming and programmable sounder circuits to provide different alarm regimes per area or tenant.
- Refurbishments and expansions— When replacing conventional panels or upgrading small legacy systems to addressable technology, the XFP501/H offers a cost-effective route with the option to network additional XFP panels if the site expands.
- Education and community facilities— Schools, nurseries and community centres can benefit from clear zone reporting and configurable investigation or day/night modes for altered occupancy patterns.
- Contractor and installer solutions— Professional installers who need an EN54-approved panel with integration options, repeaters and standard accessory support will find the XFP501/H practical for a wide range of client specifications.
Its networkability also means the panel is viable as part of a wider distributed system when multiple buildings or large campus areas require coordinated alarm management but where each location remains relatively modest in device count.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating the XFP501/H, consider a few typical comparison points:
- Addressable single-loop vs. multi-loop panels— Multi-loop panels provide capacity for many more devices and might be preferred for larger estates. The XFP501/H’s single-loop design is ideal where device counts are moderate and budget, footprint and simplicity are priorities.
- Addressable vs. conventional systems— Addressable systems like the XFP501/H provide precise device-level fault and alarm reporting, reduced wiring and better false-alarm management compared to conventional panels, which remain less costly for very small or temporary installations.
- Network capability— The XFP501/H supports RS-485 networking of up to eight masters, which is well-suited to many distributed systems. For projects requiring redundant network paths or much larger networks, alternatives offering redundant communications or higher master counts may be more appropriate.
- Protocol compatibility— The use of the Hochiki ESP protocol makes the XFP501/H an attractive choice where integrators prefer or currently use ESP devices. If a site standardises on a different protocol (e.g., Apollo or Honeywell variants), selecting a panel matched to that protocol reduces device compatibility work.
- Certification and approvals— LPCB EN54-2 and EN54-4 approval places the XFP501/H alongside other compliant control panels commonly specified for commercial projects in the UK and regions recognising these standards. When procurement requires EN54-labelling, this is a clear advantage over non-certified alternatives.
In short, the XFP501/H sits in a niche for installers who need an EN54-certified, addressable single-loop panel with expansion through networking and strong compatibility with Hochiki ESP devices.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
Feedback from installers and end users tends to highlight a handful of consistent strengths. Installers often praise the panel for its straightforward engineering workflow, clear zone indication, and the convenience of an integral EN54-compliant PSU which reduces the number of external components and cable runs. End users appreciate the reliable alarm reporting, professional finish of the metal enclosure and the flexibility of programmable sounder circuits for phased evacuation.
Common practical observations from the field include:
- Fast commissioning when using C-TEC PC tools and the familiar Hochiki ESP ecosystem.
- Robust build quality and secure access options that reassure facilities managers.
- Clear compliance documentation which simplifies tender and specification processes for public-sector and commercial projects.
Note: Specific customer testimonials and review quotes should be requested from distributors or C-TEC-authorised installers for exact wording and case-study permission.
Conclusion: why the XFP501/H is a strong choice
The C-TEC XFP501/H is a focused, practical solution for small to medium addressable fire alarm installations. It combines essential EN54-certified components—the controller and the power supply—with flexible zone programming, programmable sounder circuits, I/O and relay options, and RS-485 networking to give installers and building owners a clear upgrade path from conventional systems or a compact standalone addressable solution.
With a suggested price of around 649.00 (check your supplier for VAT, delivery and configuration options), the XFP501/H offers a competitive specification for contractors who need compliance, adaptability and integration with common Hochiki ESP devices. For any project, installers should consult the official XFP501/H datasheet and installation manual for detailed electrical ratings, battery sizing, loop loading and physical dimensions before finalising designs.
Overall, if you need a reliable, EN54-approved, network-capable single-loop panel that is simple to commission and capable of meeting the needs of small-to-medium sites, the C-TEC XFP501/H is a compelling choice.
