Introduction to the C‑TEC CFP704‑2 and its key features
The C‑TEC CFP704‑2 is a compact, LPCB‑certified conventional fire alarm control panel designed to bring reliable, standards‑compliant detection and signalling to small and medium commercial premises. Built to EN54‑2 and EN54‑4 standards, this panel combines conventional zone wiring with Apollo AlarmSense two‑wire compatibility, simplifying installation while maintaining robust functionality. Key features include four AlarmSense two‑wire detector zones, four conventional sounder circuits, an integral 1.5 A EN54‑4 switch‑mode power supply and flexible installer options such as zone delay, coincidence (double‑knock) and one‑man walk test.
Whether you are an installer specifying systems for offices, schools, retail outlets or light industrial sites, the CFP704‑2 is positioned as a practical, cost‑effective control unit that balances compliance and usability. With a compact plastic enclosure, repeater support and essential auxiliary outputs, it supports straightforward integration into a wide range of small‑site fire strategies.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
- Model:CFP704‑2 (Conventional 4‑zone two‑wire panel compatible with AlarmSense)
- Approvals:EN54‑2 & EN54‑4 (LPCB)
- Zones:4 AlarmSense two‑wire detector zones (max 25 AlarmSense devices per zone)
- Sounder circuits:4 conventional sounder circuits (200 mA per circuit; total panel sounder loading ≤ 1.25 A)
- Power:Integral EN54‑4 switch‑mode PSU nominal 27 V DC (operating 19–28.5 V) with 1.5 A limited output
- Batteries:Space for 2 × 12 V VRLA (min 1.2 Ah, max 3.2 Ah each)
- Outputs & inputs:Volt‑free Fire and Fault changeover relays, open‑collector Remote and Reset outputs, Class Change and Alert auxiliary inputs
- Physical:Plastic lid & base (RAL7035), dimensions 380 × 235 × 96 mm, weight ≈1.75 kg (no batteries), IP30
- Standards compliance and peace of mind:LPCB certification to EN54‑2 and EN54‑4 confirms the CFP704‑2 meets recognised European performance and power supply standards for fire detection and alarm systems — a critical requirement for many commercial installations and for demonstrating due diligence.
- Simplified wiring with AlarmSense two‑wire:AlarmSense two‑wire detector zones allow compatible detectors and call points to be connected on a single pair of wires per zone, reducing cable runs, labour time and material cost compared with conventional multi‑wire detector loops.
- Integrated power and sounder capacity:The built‑in 1.5 A EN54‑4 switch‑mode PSU provides regulated power for the panel and peripherals. Four separate sounder circuits give flexibility in designing audible warning zones; each circuit supports up to 200 mA with a total panel sounder loading limit to protect the PSU.
- Installer controls and diagnostics:Features such as zone delay, coincidence (double‑knock), non‑latching zones and a one‑man walk test enable installers and end users to fine‑tune behaviour for real‑site conditions, reducing false alarms and easing commissioning.
- Integration and expandability:Volt‑free relays and open‑collector outputs support simple interfacing with ancillary equipment and building management systems. Repeater support via the CFP761 network driver card enables remote annunciation where required.
Use cases and scenarios where the CFP704‑2 excels
The CFP704‑2 is purpose‑built for small‑to‑medium sites where legislative compliance, cost control and rapid installation matter most. Typical installations include:
- Offices and professional suites:Multi‑room offices benefit from the panel’s four zones to delineate floors, wings or tenancy boundaries and the AlarmSense two‑wire approach to minimise cable routing through ceilings and risers.
- Schools and colleges:Classrooms, corridors and shared facilities can be zoned logically while enabling simple, familiar calling points and detectors for facilities teams. Installer features such as one‑man walk test reduce disruption during routine testing.
- Retail and small leisure sites:Shops, small supermarkets and gyms require reliable warning and clear zoning; separate sounder circuits help match audible warning strategy to different areas (sales floor, stockroom, back office).
- Light industrial and workshops:Where robust detectors and simple wiring are preferred, AlarmSense compatibility simplifies the wiring topology while providing recognised safety standards.
Beyond these core examples, the CFP704‑2 is a suitable choice where budgeted projects require a certified solution with a fast install and clear scope of expansion via repeaters or network interfaces.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
Understanding where the CFP704‑2 sits in the landscape of fire alarm control panels helps clarify its suitability:
Addressable systems provide device‑level identification and often better cause‑location in large or complex sites, but they are typically more costly in both hardware and installation time. The CFP704‑2’s conventional AlarmSense approach hits a practical middle ground: it keeps installation simple and economical while leveraging two‑wire detector technology to reduce wiring overhead compared with traditional conventional setups.
Compared with basic 4‑zone conventional panels, the CFP704‑2 stands out for its AlarmSense compatibility and EN54‑4 certified internal PSU. Many entry‑level panels may lack dedicated EN54‑4 certification for the power supply, or they may not offer the installer features (coincidence, non‑latch, one‑man test) and repeater support that simplify commissioning and long‑term maintenance.
For sites where the number of zones and devices is modest and there is no requirement for device‑level addressing, the CFP704‑2 is typically more cost‑effective and quicker to deploy than larger addressable or networked systems. If future expansion beyond four zones is anticipated, installers may consider panels with modular expansion or addressable controllers, but for many small‑site applications the CFP704‑2 provides an optimal balance.
Customer testimonials and representative feedback
Actual customer feedback will vary by site, but representative installer and end‑user comments often highlight the following points:
- "The AlarmSense two‑wire zones cut our installation time significantly — fewer cable runs and simpler termination saved labour on every floor." — Installer (anonymised)
- "LPCB certification gave the client confidence during sign‑off. The built‑in PSU and clear sounder outputs made design straightforward." — System designer (anonymised)
- "Compact, easy to commission and the one‑man walk test is genuinely useful during after‑hours maintenance." — Facilities manager (anonymised)
If you are evaluating the CFP704‑2 for your own site, consider asking your supplier for site‑specific references or demonstration units so you can validate installer workflows and end‑user operation on a real installation.
Conclusion — why the CFP704‑2 is a strong choice
The C‑TEC CFP704‑2 4‑Zone AlarmSense panel is an effective, standards‑compliant solution for many small to medium commercial sites. It combines the simplicity and cost benefits of conventional systems with the wiring efficiency of two‑wire AlarmSense devices, all within an LPCB‑certified EN54‑2/4 package. Key selling points include its integrated 1.5 A EN54‑4 PSU, flexible sounder circuits, installer‑focused features and repeater support for remote annunciation.
For projects where compliance, predictable cost and rapid installation are priorities — such as offices, schools, retail and light industrial premises — the CFP704‑2 offers a sensible, proven platform. With a suggested price point that reflects its functionality and certification, it represents good value for contractors and end users who need a compact, capable fire alarm control solution.
Note:Installation, commissioning and maintenance must be carried out by a competent, qualified engineer in accordance with local regulations and standards (for example BS 5839 where applicable). Always refer to the official datasheet and manufacturer guidance for detailed installation instructions and battery specifications.
