Cygnus SmartNet-Pro wireless fire detection system installed at Heysham Power Station

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

SmartNet-Pro deployed at Heysham Power Station

Cygnus has installed its 100% wireless and EN 54 certified SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm system at the Contractor’s Village at Heysham Power Station 1 in Lancashire.

This installation provides reliable fire protection equipment in a challenging industrial setting, as reported by Cygnus.

Marlowe Fire & Security, based in Manchester, partnered with Equans for this project.

The decision to use Cygnus’ SmartNet-Pro solution was influenced by Marlowe’s positive experience on previous projects with the Cygnus team.

Overcoming installation challenges

The Contractor’s Village, consisting of twenty cabins, is now equipped with Detectors and Manual Call Points, all connected to a SmartNet-Pro Control Panel situated in one of the nearest cabins to the main site.

This setup also includes an interface for signalling to the main site.

Simon Hilton, Systems Account Manager at Marlowe Fire & Security, explained: “We chose SmartNet-Pro thanks to its proven reliability, robustness, and impressive installation speed.

“This project presented quite a challenge due to the amount of metal in the cabin construction, which would cause issues if installing a wired system, and means we needed a product with robust signal strength.

“Thanks to SmartNet’s 100% wireless capabilities, it ensured minimal disruption to the site and was quickly deployable.

“We’ve used Cygnus products before in similar settings and we’ve always been impressed with the outcome and this project was no exception.”

Ensuring continuous safety during maintenance

Heysham Power Station 1, which experiences intermittent maintenance outages, now benefits from SmartNet’s wireless radio devices that form a robust, self-forming, and self-healing mesh network.

This network allows nodes to connect dynamically, providing efficient and reliable network performance.

This feature ensures that the SmartNet fire detection and alarm system remains operational during outages, maintaining continuous on-site safety for workers.

The wireless nature of SmartNet eliminates the cabling complexities that would be problematic in metal structures and offers a scalable solution for future needs.

Advantages of a wireless system

The wireless design of the SmartNet-Pro system facilitates an easy installation process with minimal disruption, which is particularly valuable in industrial environments such as Heysham Power Station 1.

The self-healing mesh network technology enhances the system’s reliability, ensuring consistent protection even during maintenance periods.

SmartNet-Pro’s scalability makes it a viable option for sites with evolving safety requirements.

Bull Products unveils Cygnus Alert for advanced site safety monitoring

by Featured NewsFire Detection

Introduction of Cygnus Alert platform

Bull Products has introduced the Cygnus Alert, a new remote notification and monitoring platform designed to enhance safety at various sites.

The platform is integrated with the SITENET fire detection and alarm system, which is EN 54 certified and operates completely wirelessly.

This combination aims to provide comprehensive safety solutions for construction sites and other critical environments.

The Cygnus Alert system enables real-time communication of event, fault, or mesh information through its cloud-based solution, allowing site managers and construction professionals to respond promptly to any incidents.

Accessible via a 2G and 4G cellular module, the platform offers user-friendly management features through both a web-based cloud portal and a dedicated Android app.

Features and benefits of the Cygnus Alert system

The Cygnus Alert is designed for flexibility and ease of integration with the existing SITENET range.

It can be installed during the initial setup of the fire alarm control panel or added later to existing setups.

“The ability for integrators to assign engineers and also end users provides enhanced support not only to the integrator but also added benefit to on-site managers,” explained Carl Leeson, Head of Sales at Bull Products.

Real-time alerts and notifications about system statuses such as battery faults, mesh issues, and fault history are sent directly to site administrators, facilitating quicker decision-making and enhancing overall response times.

The system’s scalability allows it to manage multiple sites simultaneously, proving its adaptability across different industries and project sizes.

Industry applications and user feedback

Beyond its technical capabilities, Cygnus Alert is versatile enough for use in industrial facilities, transport hubs, airports, shipyards, and more.

The system’s design focuses on not only addressing immediate safety concerns but also providing a robust communication link between the site conditions and the management teams.

Leeson shared his enthusiasm about the new platform: “The Cygnus protocol is the backbone of the SITENET system, and we are delighted to be building on our solution with the new Cygnus Alert platform.

“It offers impressive efficiency and responsiveness and when combined with its seamless integration with SITENET, easy to use cloud portal and app, Cygnus Alert ticks every box.

“We are delivering solutions to our customers that allow them to stay a step ahead whilst ensuring optimum safety and peace of mind.”

IFSJ comment

The introduction of the Cygnus Alert by Bull Products marks a significant advancement in remote monitoring and safety management technologies.

With its innovative approach to integrating cloud-based notifications and real-time monitoring, it ensures that safety managers and site operators have immediate access to critical information, which is essential for maintaining high safety standards and responding efficiently to potential risks.

New Cygnus Alert platform enhances site safety with real-time monitoring

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Cygnus introduces cloud-based alert and monitoring platform

Cygnus has launched a new notification and monitoring platform, Cygnus Alert, as a cloud-based solution aimed at enhancing site safety.

This platform is part of Cygnus’ SmartNet range of fire detection and alarm systems, which are notable for being fully wireless and meeting EN 54 certification standards.

Cygnus Alert allows integrators and site administrators to receive real-time updates on events, faults, or system status, facilitating quick responses to any situations that may arise on site.

The service is accessed via a cellular module that supports both 2G and 4G networks and includes features like user management and notifications through a cloud portal.

This can be accessed through a web browser or via an Android app, providing flexibility for users in different settings.

The platform’s design ensures it integrates smoothly with the existing SmartNet systems either at the time of installation or as a retrofit to enhance capabilities of current setups.

Enhanced response capabilities with real-time data

Real-time data transmission is a core feature of the Cygnus Alert system, ensuring that site administrators are always informed of the status of their fire safety systems through the cloud portal, app, and SMS notifications.

Each control panel in the SmartNet range can accommodate a Cygnus Alert module, with the cloud portal capable of managing and notifying multiple sites simultaneously.

This scalability makes the platform suitable for a variety of environments including residential, commercial, and industrial facilities, as well as transport hubs and construction sites.

The system’s ability to display detailed system information such as battery status, mesh connectivity, and fault history remotely is particularly valuable for comprehensive monitoring.

Chris Bolger, Chief Technology Officer at Cygnus, highlighted the benefits of the new system: “We’re delighted to be introducing Cygnus Alert to enhance user features for our SmartNet range.

“This allows for a new era of efficiency and responsiveness with remote monitoring to our systems.

“With its seamless hardware integration, easy to use cloud portal and app, the Cygnus Alert system empowers organisations and individuals to stay one step ahead and ensure optimum safety and efficiency.

“It brings peace of mind to both site administrators and their clients.”

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of the Cygnus Alert platform by Cygnus represents a thoughtful expansion of their safety technology offerings, focusing on real-time monitoring and immediate responsiveness.

This initiative is part of a broader trend in the fire safety industry towards integrating more advanced technological solutions to enhance safety protocols and reduce response times.

Such developments are critical as they provide both safety managers and site occupants with enhanced tools to manage potential fire risks effectively.

Reducing the need for Waking Watches with Cygnus

by Breaking NewsFire Detection

Stephen Marsh, Head of Sales at Cygnus explains why the new Cygnus fire detection and alarm systems will takeover from Waking Watches

According to data from the London Fire Brigade, over 1,000 buildings in London need “Waking Watches” in place due to fire safety issues.

This is just data for London so imagine what the picture looks like for the whole of the UK.

Let’s take a look at Waking Watches first. What are they and why are they in place?

The Government defines waking watch as ‘a system whereby suitably trained persons continually patrol all floors and the exterior perimeter of the building in order to detect a fire, raise the alarm, and carry out the role of evacuation management’.

Its aim is to ensure that occupants have sufficient warning in the event of a fire and is required if dangerous cladding has been found on the building or if any fire safety issues mean the ‘stay put’ evacuation policy needs to change to simultaneous evacuation.

If the buildings policy changes to a simultaneous evacuation, it must be delivered with appropriate interim measures so that any evacuation can be achieved safely, and these measures can take a number of forms.

Dynamic measures often involve a Waking Watch being put in place whilst static measures include the installation of fire alarm systems or other mitigating building alterations.

If a Waking Watch is put in place, it means 24-hour patrols are required to look for signs of a fire.

According to data collected from June to September 2020 by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG), the median monthly Waking Watch cost per building is £11,361 and the median monthly Waking Watch cost per dwelling is £137.

Although a programme of remediation is in place, for some homeowners and tenants, there is no end in sight.

It could be two, three or five years until the cladding on some buildings can be replaced leaving occupants, building owners and property management companies with on-going costs and inevitable worry.

The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) did provide guidance in its fourth edition stating that where a Waking Watch is implemented, as soon as practicable but within a month, the Responsible Persons should make a plan for implementing sustainable means for supporting the evacuation strategy to allow the building to transition away from a Waking Watch.

With some people still awaiting remediation work to commence and uncertainties surrounding the costs and responsibility for recladding, what can be done to support those responsible for buildings and tenants to reduce the need for Waking Watches?

SmartNet is the Solution

The SmartNet wireless system can make the process of installing and commissioning simple and efficient, with minimal disruption to the building or occupants.

Utilising the renowned and patented Cygnus wireless mesh protocol, SmartNet offers a reliable, robust and adaptable solution that is up to twenty times faster to install than other systems.

It is the world’s first EN 54 certified and 100% wireless fire detection and alarm system that rapidly detects and alerts users to signs of smoke or heat, whilst also being resilient to false alarms.

As SmartNet is 100% wireless it eliminates the need for costly and time-consuming cabling, which is extremely important in an occupied building.

It ensures minimal disruption for tenants and means a system can be installed in a matter of days.

The powerful mesh network reduces the need for radio surveys to speed-up installation further.

The SmartNet system is built on a combination of wireless radio devices, operating on a self-forming, self-healing mesh network making it a robust and reliable solution, bringing confidence to building managers to stand down the Waking Watch.

The SmartNet products include the scalable SmartNet-Pro, which ranges from a panel capability of 511 devices and up to 96 zones with the ability to network up to five panels providing a combined solution of 2555 devices.

The cost-effective SmartNet-100 range enables systems with up to 100 devices from one control panel.

Cygnus offers a fire detection and alarm solution to meet diverse project requirements.

At Cygnus, we have supported and supplied a number of systems for Waking Watch requirements.

This has created a higher level of protection and safety to occupiers, providing peace of mind.

In addition, the system causes minimal disruption during installation and saves significant ongoing costs.

Cygnus SmartNet is the perfect solution for this and similar applications.

Government funding

The Government launched the Waking Watch Replacement Fund in May 2023, which is a £18.6 million fund to install alarms and replace costly Waking Watch measures in all residential buildings in England where a Waking Watch is currently in place.

The new fund builds on the progress made by the initial Waking Watch Relief Fund and the Waking Watch Replacement Fund 2022.

The additional funding is aimed at incentivising the installation of fire alarms and protecting more residents in more buildings pending their full remediation or the provision of long-term mitigation measures.

The application for funding ends on 31st March 2024 so now is an ideal time to speak to your customers and explain the benefits of installing a new Cygnus SmartNet wireless fire detection and alarm system.

Waking Watches are costly and concerning for tenants.

A SmartNet wireless fire alarm and detection system from Cygnus simply makes sense so get in touch with us today to find out more about our solution.

Cygnus at FSE

Cygnus will be exhibiting at The Fire Safety Event 2024, a show dedicated to supporting industry professionals and organisations in enhancing and maintaining the high standards in fire safety management.

The event will take place 30th April – 2nd May at the NEC Birmingham.

Cygnus ALERT serves as the perfect complement to SmartNet, the world’s first EN 54 certified and 100% wireless fire detection and alarm system.

Using Cygnus ALERT, integrators and site administrators can receive event, fault or mesh information in real-time, enabling swift responses to on-site situations.

Designed for seamless integration with SmartNet systems, the Cygnus ALERT module can be fitted into the SmartNet control panel on-site during installation and can also be retrofitted into pre-existing installations.

“We are excited to introduce Cygnus ALERT at the Fire Safety Event,” says Marsh.

“We had a very successful show last year and a really positive response from the industry with the launch of our SmartNet solution.

“Now we’re back with this innovative accompaniment to the range, reinforcing our commitment to advancing fire safety technology.

“We believe the combination of SmartNet and Cygnus ALERT will empower individuals to enhance their fire safety protocols whilst simultaneously safeguarding lives and property more effectively.”

Visitors to the Cygnus stand will have the opportunity to explore the groundbreaking SmartNet range first hand.

It offers a reliable, robust and adaptable solution that is up to twenty times faster to install than other systems.

From the scalable SmartNet-Pro, ranging from a panel capability of 511 devices and up to 96 zones, with the ability to network up to 5 panels providing a combined solution of 2555 devices; to the versatile SmartNet-100, enabling systems with up to 100 devices from one control panel, Cygnus ensures a fire detection and alarm system to meet diverse project requirements.

In addition to showcasing its products, Cygnus will also highlight its Cygnus Academy at The Fire Safety Event.

The company recently launched its new Technology and Training Centre (TTC) in Meriden, Birmingham, which serves as a hub for innovation and marks a significant expansion of the Cygnus Academy.

The academy provides high-quality training for installers seeking to enhance their knowledge of SmartNet technology and ensures they can install the system on-site.

For more information, drop by Cygnus’ stand 5/D10 at The Fire Safety Event 2024 or visit: https://www.cygnus-systems.com/.

This article was originally published in the April 2024 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Cygnus to introduce Cygnus ALERT at The Fire Safety Event 2024

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Innovative addition to fire safety technology

Cygnus, a leader in 100% wireless, EN 54 certified fire detection and alarm systems, is set to debut of its Cygnus ALERT, a remote notification and monitoring platform, at The Fire Safety Event 2024.

This addition marks a significant advancement in fire safety technology, providing real-time information on events, faults, or mesh network status to integrators and site administrators.

The launch will take place on Stand 5/D10, following the success of the SmartNet fire detection and alarm system range.

The Fire Safety Event, dedicated to enhancing fire safety management standards, will host Cygnus from 30th April to 2nd May at the NEC Birmingham.

Cygnus ALERT, designed for seamless integration with the SmartNet systems, can be fitted during installation or retrofitted into existing setups, ensuring rapid response capabilities to on-site situations.

Cygnus’ commitment to fire safety innovation

Stephen Marsh, Head of Sales at Cygnus, expressed enthusiasm for the new platform: “We are excited to introduce Cygnus ALERT at the Fire Safety Event.

We had a very successful show last year and a really positive response from the industry with the launch of our SmartNet solution.

Now we’re back with this innovative accompaniment to the range, reinforcing our commitment to advancing fire safety technology.

We believe the combination of SmartNet and Cygnus ALERT will empower individuals to enhance their fire safety protocols whilst simultaneously safeguarding lives and property more effectively.”

Attendees at The Fire Safety Event will have the chance to explore the SmartNet range, known for its reliability, adaptability, and installation efficiency.

The range includes the scalable SmartNet-Pro and the versatile SmartNet-100, catering to various project requirements.

Enhancing fire safety through education

Additionally, Cygnus will highlight its Cygnus Academy and the recently launched Technology and Training Centre (TTC) in Meriden, Birmingham.

This expansion of the Cygnus Academy offers high-quality training for installers on SmartNet technology, ensuring proper system installation and enhancing fire safety knowledge.

For more details, visitors are encouraged to visit Cygnus’ stand 5/D10 at The Fire Safety Event 2024 or explore their website.

IFSJ Comment

The introduction of Cygnus ALERT at The Fire Safety Event 2024 underlines the ongoing innovation within the fire safety industry.

This platform complements the existing SmartNet system, elevating the standards of fire safety management through advanced technology.

By enabling real-time monitoring and notifications, Cygnus is set to provide a more responsive and efficient approach to fire safety, which is crucial for the protection of lives and properties.

This development represents a forward step in the industry’s efforts to integrate technology with fire safety protocols, ensuring a safer environment for all.

Wireless fire alarm system from Cygnus enhances safety at Dartford’s temporary theatre

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Innovative solution for temporary venue

In response to the unique challenge posed by the temporary theatre in Dartford, Blake Fire & Security and Illumino Ignis (Kent) Ltd (IIKL) have successfully implemented the Cygnus EN 54 certified, fully wireless SmartNet-Pro fire detection and alarm system.

This system was chosen to meet the stringent fire safety requirements of the new venue, which aims to host 1,091 audience members while the main Orchard Theatre undergoes RAAC Works.

With a critical turnaround of just one week, the selection of SmartNet-Pro guarantees compliance with EN 54 and BS5839 Part 1 standards, providing an aesthetically pleasing and swiftly installable solution that supports the operational dynamics of the theatre.

The Cygnus technology behind the solution

The SmartNet-Pro system’s wireless network, powered by patented Cygnus technology, operates through battery-powered radio devices.

This forms a robust, self-healing mesh network ensuring maximum reliability with at least two communication paths for every device.

Rory Foster, Fire Safety Systems Manager at Blake Fire & Security, remarked: “We have worked with Cygnus and the SmartNet-Pro system previously and knew it would be ideal for this unique project.

“Being 100% wireless, robust, and reliable, it met the project’s complex requirements perfectly. The Cygnus team’s support was instrumental in delivering the project efficiently.”

Tailored features for theatre operations

Addressing the theatre’s specific needs, the system incorporates advanced features like a “Show Mode” to isolate smoke detection during performances, while maintaining heat detection functionality.

This thoughtful integration ensures the system’s adaptability to special effects and environmental factors within the venue.

Furthermore, the installation includes a strategy to prevent false alarms during performances, enhancing safety without compromising the audience’s experience.

The SmartNet-Pro system’s versatility was demonstrated through its ability to support 65 devices, installed within two days, showcasing its suitability for rapid deployment in complex environments.

Comprehensive approach to fire safety

Blake Fire & Security and IIKL provided a holistic service from site survey and design to installation, closely collaborating with the theatre and local authorities to ensure a seamless process.

Post-installation, comprehensive training was provided to the Stage Door crew, equipping them with the knowledge to operate the system’s advanced functions effectively.

IFSJ Comment

The collaboration between Blake Fire & Security, IIKL, and Cygnus to equip Dartford’s temporary theatre with a cutting-edge wireless fire alarm system represents a forward-thinking approach to fire safety in unique and temporary entertainment venues.

This initiative not only demonstrates the technical feasibility of deploying advanced, wireless fire safety systems in challenging environments but also underscores the industry’s commitment to ensuring the safety of audiences and staff.

By prioritising quick installation, aesthetic integration, and operational specificity, this project sets a new standard for fire safety in temporary venues, reflecting a broader trend towards more adaptable and technologically advanced fire safety solutions in the entertainment sector.

Cygnus opens new Birmingham technology and training centre

by Featured NewsFire DetectionSafetyTraining

Cygnus, renowned for developing and manufacturing fully compliant, wireless fire detection and alarm systems, recently inaugurated their new Research and Development (R&D) and training facility in Meriden, Birmingham.

The newly established Cygnus Technology & Training Centre (TTC) is a hub for innovation and an extension of the Cygnus Academy.

This centre is dedicated to the in-person, custom training programme for installers to learn and become certified in SmartNet, the world’s first EN 54 certified, entirely wireless fire detection and alarm system.

Expansion and commitment to fire safety solutions

Sandy Damm, CEO at Cygnus, expressed enthusiasm about the new facility, saying: “The opening of the new Cygnus TTC in Birmingham marks a pivotal moment for Cygnus.

“We are excited to embark on this journey, as it propels us into the next phase of Cygnus’ growth.

“This strategic investment reflects our unwavering commitment to staying at the forefront of fire safety technology and expertise, ensuring that we continue to deliver unparalleled solutions to our clients worldwide.

“As our business expands, so does the opportunity to cultivate local talent and we are looking forward to adding to our team.

“I thank Charles Markham, Director and Shareholder for his remarkable work in setting up this first-class premises, future pillar of Cygnus Group.”

Strategic location and accessibility

Charles Markham, Director and Shareholder at Cygnus, highlighted the strategic choice of Meriden for the new facility: “Meriden is the perfect location for our new facility.

“Its central location and proximity to Birmingham Airport, and key transportation routes give us great infrastructure connectivity so that we can serve our UK and international customers well from here.

“This region is also well-known for its technology centres and expertise and, with the combination of training and R&D, the TTC is in the best position to benefit from and develop that talent pool.”

Cygnus’ state-of-the-art facilities and training opportunities

The Cygnus TTC will feature cutting-edge facilities for testing, refining, and advancing fire and safety solutions, alongside innovation spaces that foster collaboration among Cygnus’ skilled research and development team and technical support team.

The new Cygnus Academy training centre will offer a modern, high-spec environment for installers to complete the SmartNet training and become Cygnus Certified Installers.

The SmartNet course provides comprehensive theoretical and practical training in SmartNet technology and installation skills.

Aligning with company mission and local recruitment

The opening of a second Cygnus Academy site aligns with the company’s mission to ensure that installers are fully certified to install SmartNet on their projects.

The accessible location of Meriden facilitates nationwide installer training, supporting the company’s rapid growth and local recruitment efforts.

Sandy Damm concluded: “We are excited to embark on the next stage of our journey to foster growth and invest further in research and development.

“The Meriden location was chosen strategically due to its proximity to technological and academic resources, making it an ideal base for Cygnus’ research and development initiatives.

“The additional space to expand our training facilities also opens up new opportunities for installers to be supported by expert, in-depth training and ongoing first-class technical support.”

IFSJ Comment

The inauguration of Cygnus‘ new Technology & Training Centre in Meriden, Birmingham, is a noteworthy development in the fire safety sector.

It highlights the company’s dedication to innovation, training, and local talent development.

The strategic location enhances connectivity and accessibility for both UK and international clients, reflecting the global reach of fire safety technology.

This facility underscores the importance of advanced training in fire safety systems and demonstrates the commitment to continuous research and development in this critical field.

The expansion of the Cygnus Academy is set to play a significant role in shaping the future of fire safety solutions, fostering a skilled workforce equipped to handle emerging challenges in the industry.

Cygnus SmartNet enhances fire safety for Bristol apartment owners

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjects

Apartment owners in Bristol’s Cotham area have turned to local installer Elecsec for an advanced fire detection and alarm solution.

The decision followed a comprehensive fire risk assessment.

Elecsec, in response, opted for the Cygnus SmartNet system, which is notably the world’s initial wireless and EN 54 certified solution.

This system guarantees heightened safety for all the building’s residents.

SmartNet: a wireless solution for seamless installation

“Considering the significant challenges posed by a hard-wired system,” Scott Chambers, Contracts Manager at Elecsec, said: “a wireless system emerged as the indispensable choice early on.”

He further noted the extensive damage and disruption that could be caused to residents and the building structure if cabling were introduced, given the building’s size and the fact that it was already occupied.

Given the dimensions of the structure, Elecsec decided on the SmartNet-100 range.

This variant suits small to medium-scale projects where the extensiveness of the SmartNet-Pro isn’t necessary.

15 smoke detectors, three manual call points, and three heat detectors, among other components, were seamlessly integrated.

These devices spanned across all apartments and common areas, aligning perfectly with the specifications set in the Fire Risk Assessment.

Ensuring adherence to all pivotal fire safety norms, the SmartNet-100 emerged as the ideal solution.

A promising collaboration with Cygnus

“We’ve been eager to deploy the Cygnus SmartNet system for quite a while,” Chambers shared.

Not only did it meet expectations, but Elecsec also anticipates using it in future projects, given its efficiency.

He highlighted the system’s suitability for a range of projects and expressed excitement about further collaborations with Cygnus.

Selecting a wireless system, Chambers reiterated, facilitated efficient, clean, and economical project completion.

SmartNet-100 is backed by Cygnus’s reputed technology.

This wireless network, fuelled by battery-operated radio devices, forms a sturdy, adaptive, and regenerative mesh network.

Crucially, this ensures at least two communication routes to every wireless component, bolstering reliability.

Another highlight is the system’s straightforward configuration tool, enhancing user experience.

Chambers concluded by sharing the positive feedback post-installation.

Taking just two days, the client acknowledged the evident advantages of the wireless mesh technology, particularly the elimination of subsequent plastering and decorating needs.

For a deeper insight into Cygnus, readers can click here. Information about Elecsec is accessible here.

IFSJ Comment

The application of the SmartNet system by Cygnus in a residential building in Bristol underscores a shift towards advanced, wireless fire safety solutions.

The emphasis on minimal disruption, coupled with heightened safety standards, sets a precedent for other establishments.

Moreover, the collaboration between Elecsec and Cygnus, two frontrunners in their respective fields, promises a harmonious synergy of expertise and innovation.

The seamless integration of technology with safety is not just a modern trend; it’s an essential evolution.

Cygnus unveils the SmartNet-100, a new wireless fire alarm system

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProducts

Cygnus has launched its latest offering in the fire detection and alarm system sector, the SmartNet-100.

This fully wireless fire alarm system promises to be a game-changer for small to medium-sized projects, offering both reliability and affordability.

The newest member of the SmartNet family

Building from the success of their SmartNet-Pro fire detection system, Cygnus aims to fill a gap in the market for projects requiring fewer devices.

Unlike the SmartNet-Pro, the SmartNet-100 is tailored for projects needing up to 100 devices connected to a single control panel.

Austen Wells, Sales Manager at Cygnus, shared: “Its speed of install and reliability set it apart from other wired solutions.

“Small to medium-sized projects often cannot afford the downtime, the disruption, or the expense of fitting a wired fire detection and alarm system. SmartNet-100 provides a fast and cost-effective solution.”

Wireless fire alarm advantages

SmartNet-100 is touted to be up to twenty times faster to install compared to other systems.

It efficiently detects potential threats like smoke or fire while minimising false alarms.

Notably, there’s no need for wired elements such as boosters or translators, simplifying the installation process.

Further, this new range allows seamless integration of up to 100 devices from one control panel.

The network utilises battery-powered radio devices with a self-healing mesh network, relying on the patented Cygnus protocol.

This system operates across 10 frequency channels from 865-868 MHz, and the control panel uses mains power.

Eliminating expensive and lengthy cabling processes, the wireless fire alarm system, SmartNet-100, significantly cuts down on both engineering time and project costs.

The straightforward configuration is boosted by the absence of gateway expanders or loop-powered translating devices, expediting installation.

A diverse range for varied needs

Cygnus ensures the SmartNet system is versatile, compatible with various building types.

The product range encompasses Radio Bases with or without Sounders, Visual Indicator Detectors, and a variety of detector heads.

Additionally, SmartNet-100 proudly carries the ‘Made in Britain’ mark and is both EN 54 certified and BS 5839 compliant.

IFSJ Comment

The SmartNet-100 is a clear indication of Cygnus’s commitment to address the diverse needs of the market.

By offering a wireless system, projects can now benefit from reduced installation time, cost savings, and reliability.

For small to medium projects, where budgets and timeframes are often tight, this product could revolutionise the way fire detection systems are implemented.

A fire safety overhaul at Elmwood Primary School

by Featured NewsFire DetectionProjectsSafety

Cygnus collaborates with Blake Fire & Security Systems to upgrade fire safety at Elmwood Primary School

Cygnus, a leading manufacturer of wireless fire detection and alarm systems, recently partnered with Southend-on-Sea-based Blake Fire & Security Systems to revamp the fire safety protocol at Elmwood Primary School in South Woodham Ferrers.

The two companies supplied the school with 130 of Cygnus’ SmartNet wireless alarm systems, bolstering safety measures for the school’s staff and students.

Elmwood Primary School reached out to Blake Fire & Security Systems for a comprehensive review and quotation of their existing, outdated fire alarm systems.

Rory Foster, Fire Safety Systems Manager at Blake Fire & Security Systems noted: “After discussing the options, it was obvious to see the benefits of using a wireless system for this project.”

Unveiling the benefits of wireless fire safety systems

Wireless systems came with a host of benefits.

Notably, their cost was lower than their wired counterparts, mainly due to the lack of required containment, cabling, and a streamlined installation process needing only a single engineer.

On the ease of installation, Foster said: “The speed and ease of installation meant that we were able to install SmartNet in just four days during the May half term.”

This meant that installation could be done outside of the lengthy summer holiday period.

The wireless system provided a solution that avoided penetration through walls or ceilings, a necessary step in the installation of wired alternatives.

Foster added: “Running cables through walls and ceilings with a wired system also requires extra fire proofing to maintain the fire compartments of the building.”

Cygnus’ SmartNet: The wireless solution for reliable fire safety

Post installation, the school’s fire safety system underwent a quick transformation with the help of Blake Fire & Security’s NSI Gold FD&A Designer.

They used a BS5839 Classification L2 System approved design, while Cygnus delivered the necessary products within two days, ensuring an efficient workflow.

The SmartNet wireless network, a product of patented Cygnus technology, is a self-forming and self-healing mesh network powered by battery-operated radio devices.

It guarantees a minimum of two communication paths to each wireless device, ensuring maximum reliability.

Foster concluded: “Following the installation of the SmartNet wireless fire alarm, the school was very impressed.

“We would highly recommend the Cygnus system due to its reliability, ease and speed of installation, lack of mess, and user-friendly functionality.”

IFSJ Comment

The collaboration between Cygnus and Blake Fire & Security Systems showcases how wireless technology can revolutionise fire safety, particularly in educational settings.

It highlights the efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and enhanced safety such a system brings, offering our readers valuable insight into the latest trends in fire safety solutions.

About Cygnus

Cygnus is a leading manufacturer of wireless fire detection and alarm systems, recognised for their cutting-edge technology and reliable solutions.

They are committed to enhancing fire safety across various sectors, with their patented technology serving as a testament to their innovative approach.

For more information, visit Cygnus.

Further details on Blake Fire & Security Systems are available at Blake Fire & Security Systems.