This document is intended for licensed electricians/
alarm installers. GE Interlogix cannot provide technical
support to unqualified persons.
If you have questions, call GE Interlogix at 1-800-648-7424.
Description
The ESL 500N Series conventional 2-wire and 4-wire photoelectric
smoke detectors have intelligent software and digitally processed
sensing capabilities. This intelligence coupled with the ESL patented
optical sensing chamber means the ESL 500N Series quickly and
accurately detects smoke. CleanMe® compatible software, selfdiagnostics, and dust (drift) compensation are standard in every unit.
The ESL 500N Series offers application flexibility with optional
auxiliary relays, rate-of-rise/fixed temperature heat sensors, isolated
heat sensors and/or 85dBa temporal 3 sounders.
All models ship standard with the following features:
Detector/base lock
Discourages unauthorized removal of the smoke detector by requiring
a screwdriver to remove the detector from the base.
Self-diagnostics
Includes automatic sensitivity testing. Once a day and immediately
upon first power up, each 500N Series detector performs a full
diagnostic test that includes a dynamic test of the sensing chamber
and internal electronics. This meets NFPA 72 field sensitivity testing
requirements without the need for external meters.
Drift compensation(dust compensation)
The detectors automatically adjust sensitivity, up to a maximum of
1.0%/ft., as the detectors become dirty.
Automatic voltage range selection for UL 2-wir e compatibility
The 2-wire 500N Series detectors automatically determine if the
detector is connected to a 6/12V panel or a 12/24V panel. There are
no switches to set.
Depending on the model, the smoke detector provides the
following features:
CleanMe®
Enables the control panel to receive a warning signal via a 505
module, or CleanMe compatible panel, indicating that the optical
chamber needs to be replaced. This feature is available on the 500N
Series 2-wire detectors only.
The 500N Series 2-wire detectors enable the CleanMe function by
recognizing voltage polarity at installation. If the + and - terminal
connections are reversed, the CleanMe function is enabled. New
500N Series detectors are compatible on the same loop with previous
500 Series detectors if proper wiring is observed. See Figure 5.
Integral T emporal 3 Sounder
In the 500N models with sounder, a piezoelectric horn produces an
interrupted 85dBa tone when the detector alarms or when the polarity
is reversed. Sounder follows input voltage in reverse polarity.
In order for all sounders to activate when the panel alarms, the panel
must reverse the supply voltage polarity to the loop on alarm. If the
panel does not implement polarity reversal, an ESL 405 Polarity
Reversal Relay Module must be used. (Refer to the installation
instructions for the ESL 405 Polarity Reversal Relay Module.)
ESL 500N Series
U
¤
L
LISTED
Auxiliary and end-of-line relays
U
Auxiliary relays are form C and operate at 1A @ 30VDC to
allow for the addition of auxiliary notification devices to the
smoke loops. Products with an “R” in the suffix signify the
auxiliary relay feature.
An end-of-line relay operates as a power supervision relay and
is normally energized and will release with the loss of power.
Products with an “E” in the suffix signify the end-of-line
feature.
Heat sensors
Some models come with both a rate-of-rise and fixed temperature heat sensors which allows the unit to detect changes in
temperature that may signal a fire event. Models with an “XT”
in the suffix have a heat sensor included.
Some models are available with an isolated heat sensor. If the
unit senses a temperature change it will alert the panel and
signal an alarm independent of smoke in the photoelectric
chamber. The heat alarm output is on the alarm relay and the
smoke alarm output is on the auxiliary relay. Models with an
“H” in the suffix have an isolated heat sensor which is both rateof-rise and fixed temperature.
Convertible inputs
The 2-wire 500N Series can be converted using the ESL 505
module to a 4-wire input on the control panel. The 500N Series
is UL Listed as compatible with the 505 module and will be
fully UL compliant with any UL listed 24 VDC control panel
and panels that do not operate below 12V. Up to 20 ESL 500N
Series smoke detectors can be accomodated on each 505
module. See the 505 module installation instructions for more
information.
Compatibility
Please refer to the ESL Compatibility Index for a complete
listing of control panels and proper identifiers. For a copy
of the Compatibility Index, call 1-800-648-7424 or visit
www.sentrol.com for a copy to download. Remember,
4-wire smoke detectors do not require a compatibility listing.
1 A
1 B
1 C
Bedroom
Living
Room
Basement
= Required smoke detectors
= Additional smoke detectors required for new construction
Figure 1. Detector placement
Bedroom
Dining
Room
1
Selecting a Location
1ON2
Selecting a suitable location is critical to the operation of smoke
detectors. This equipment should be installed in accordance with
the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Standard 72.
A-8-1.2.1.a Where to Locate the Required Smoke Detectors in
Existing Construction. The major threat from fire in a family living
unit occurs at night when everyone is asleep. The principal threat
to persons in sleeping areas comes from fires in the remainder of
the unit. Therefore, a smoke detector(s) is best located between the
bedroom areas and the rest of the unit. In units with only one
bedroom area on one floor, the smoke detector(s) should be located
as shown in Figure 1 A.
In family living units with more than one bedroom area or with
bedrooms on more than one floor, more than one smoke detector is
required, as shown in Figure 1 B.
In addition to smoke detectors outside of the sleeping areas, the
installation of a smoke detector on each additional story of the
family living unit, including the basement, is required. These
installations are shown in Figure 1 C. The living area smoke
detector should be installed in the living room or near the stairway
to the upper level, or in both locations. The basement smoke
detector should be installed in close proximity to the stairway
leading to the floor above. Where installed on an open-joisted
ceiling, the detector should be placed on the bottom of the joists.
The detector should be positioned relative to the stairway to
intercept smoke coming from a fire in the basement before the
smoke enters the stairway.
Installing the Detector
All wiring must conform to the National Electric Code (NEC) and/
or local codes having jurisdiction. Use 12 to 24 AWG (16 to
22AWG recommended) wire to install the detector.
1.If you are using the detector/base lock, remove the detector
knockout and break off the tab on the mounting base. See
Figure 2.
2.Remove the red plastic cover from the detector. The
detector is shipped with a cover for protection against
construction site dust.
3.Run system wiring to the detector location and mount
electrical boxes if necessary. The detector fits standard
single gang boxes and 3 1/2” and 4” round ceiling boxes.
4.Line up and attach the mounting base to the electrical box,
wall or ceiling using the screws provided. Use the wall
anchors if necessary. See Figure 3.
5.Strip the system wires and connect them to the appropriate
terminals on the detector. See Figure 5.
6.Attach the detector to the mounting base as follows:
- Line up the raised tab on the side of the detector with the
arrow on the mounting base. See Figure 4.
- Insert the smoke detector into the base and turn
clockwise approximately 15 degrees. It should snap
firmly into place.
7.Apply power and test the detector. See Smoke Testing the
Detector.
A-8-1.2.1.b Where to Locate the Required Smoke Detectors in New
Construction. All of the smoke detectors specified in A-8-1.2.1.a
for existing construction are required and, in addition, a smoke
detector is required in each bedroom.
A-8-1.2.1.cAre More Smoke Detectors Desirable?
The required number of smoke detectors might not provide reliable
early warning protection for those areas separated by a door from
the areas protected by the required smoke detectors. For this
reason, it is recommended that the householder consider the use of
additional smoke detectors for those areas for increased protection.
The additional areas include the basement, bedrooms, dining room,
furnace room, utility room, and hallways not protected by the
required smoke detectors. The installation of smoke detectors in
Figure 2. Detector/base lock
kitchens, attics (finished or unfinished), or garages is not normally
recommended, as these locations occasionally experience conditions
that can result in improper operation.
Important: Regulations pertaining to smoke detector installations
vary from state to state. For more information, contact your local
fire department or local authority having jurisdiction.
In addition to NFPA 72, use the following location guidelines to
optimize performance and reduce the chance of false alarms from
the detector:
•Locate ceiling-mounted smoke detectors in the center of a
room or hallway at least 4 inches (10cm) from any walls or
Figure 3. Detector installation
partitions.
•Locate wall-mounted smoke detectors so the top of the
detector is 4 to 12 inches (10 to 30cm) below the ceiling.
•Do not locate detectors in or near bathrooms or kitchens.
•Locate in a suitable environment as follows:
- Temperature between 32°F (0°C) and 100°F (37°C)
- Humidity between 0 and 95% non-condensing
•Locate away from air conditioners, heating registers, and any
other ventilation source that may interfere with smoke
entering the detector.
•Mount smoke detectors on a firm permanent surface.
2
Figure 4. Mounting
ESL 500N Series
500N Series 2-wire wiring diagram
2-wire
+
Initiating
-
Circuit
Listed Alarm Control
Note
The 500N Series 2-wire
detectors are polarity
sensitive.
Note
CleanMe is enabled by
wiring units in reverse
polarity
First
Detector
Model
521NB/521NBXT
521NCSXT
500N Series 4-wire wiring diagram
- +
EOL
Device
NC
COM
NO
Last
Detector
+ -
CleanMe
Enabled
WARNING
The system may not operate if the detector is not connected to the control unit
initiating device circuit as specified in the detector or control unit literature.
- +
CleanMe
Disabled
Model
521NB/521NBXT
521NCSXT
CleanMe
Disabled
Model
521NCRXT
521NCSRXT
+
Power
Listed Alarm Control
Note
The 500N Series 4-wire
detectors are not CleanMe
compatible
Initiating
Cicuit
-
First
Detector
500N Series 4-wire E model wiring diagram
+
Power
-
Listed Alarm Control
Note
The 500N Series 4-wire
detectors are not CleanMe
compatible
First
Detector
NO COM
NO COM
- +
Model
541NB
541NBXT
- +
Model
541NB
541NBXT
Last
Detector
Last
Detector
NO COM
NO COM
- +
Model
541NCSRXT
541NCSRH
541NCRXT
- +
Model
541NCSXTE
541NCXTE
NC
COM
NO
EOL Device
NO
COM
NC
ESL
204-12/24V
Power
Supervision
Relay
Initiating
Cicuit
Figure 5. Wiring diagrams
Smoke Testing the Detector
Smoke detectors should be tested in place annually using one of the
following methods:
A. Use Smoke! in a can® (product number SM-200), a canned
aerosol simulated smoke and follow the directions on the can.
B. Use the following steps to test the detector with smoke:
1. Hold a smoldering punk or cotton wick close to the
smoke entry openings.
2. Gently direct the smoke into the detector for 20 seconds
or until an alarm is indicated.
Be sure to extinguish the smoke source after testing!The
detector LED should stay on and an alarm should be indicated at the
control panel. Use the system reset switch to reset the detector.
ESL 500N Series
EOL Device
Removing the Detector
To remove the detector from the mounting base, grasp the
detector and turn it counterclockwise approximately 15 degrees.
The detector should snap off of the mounting base.
T o r emove the detector fr om the mounting base when the
detector/base lock is used, insert a small screwdriver into the
locking tab slot on the side of the base and press in while simultaneously turning the detector counterclockwise 15 degrees. See
Figure 7.
3
Understanding the LED
The LED on the detector indicates the status of the detector as
follows:
Flashing every 9 seconds = Normal operation.
On = Detects smoke, sending an alarm.
Off or flashing once every 1.5 seconds = Trouble or maintenance
is required. T est the detector . See Testing the Detector Sensitivity .
Testing the Detector Sensitivity
The detector provides a sensitivity test that allows you to check
the detector sensitivity using a test magnet and the LED indicator
on the detector as follows:
1.Hold the test magnet up to the raised TEST letters on the
top of the detector for 2 seconds. See Figure 6. Once the test
starts, the alarm LED flashes one to nine times.
2.Count the number of times the LED flashes and use the
following table to determine the status of the detector
sensitivity and what action to take, if any.
Flashes IndicationsAction
7.Test the detector sensitivity (See T esting the Detector
Sensitivity).
8.Reconnect all alarm notification appliances, service release
devices and extinguishing systems.
Important: The control panel alarm and all auxiliary
functions should be verified for a complete test of the system.
Figure 6. Testing the detector
1UnserviceableReset unit and rerun sensitivity
hardware faulttest. If the error persists, replace
detected.the unit.
2-3Detector isClean the unit per instructions.
becomingReset unit and rerun sensitivity
insensitive.test. If the error persists, replace
the unit.
4-7Detector is withinN/A
normal sensitivity
range.
8-9Detector isVerify that the smoke chamber
becoming toois snapped down securely. Clean
sensitive.the unit.
After the test:
If the sensitivity is within limits and all other tests pass, the
detector goes into alarm and must be reset from the control panel.
If the sensitivity is not within limits or an unserviceable
hardware fault has been detected, the detector LED flashes
every 1.5 seconds until the detector is serviced.
Cleaning the Detector
Clean the detector cover with a dry or damp (water) cloth as
needed to keep it free from dust and dirt.
When necessary, clean the detector interior and replace the optical
chamber as follows:
1.Disconnect the alarm notification appliances, service release
devices and extinguishing systems.
2.Slide a flat-blade screwdriver into the slot on the detector cap
and gently push the handle down to pry the cap up and off.
See Figure 8.
3.Press in on the sides of the optical chamber and pull it up and
away from the detector and discard. See Figure 9.
4.Use a vacuum to remove dust and dirt from the optical
chamber base.
5.Line the new optical chamber up with the optical chamber
base and snap it down into place.
6.Replace the detector cap as follows:
-Line the tabs on the cap with the slots on the detector.
-Insert the cap into the smoke detector and turn clockwise
approximately 15 degrees. It should snap firmly into place.
4
Figure 7. Unlocking the detector
Figure 8. Removing the detector cap
Optical chamber
base
SQUEEZE
HERE
Figure 9. Removing the optical chamber
Optical chamber
Detector cap
Maintaining the Detector
These smoke detectors are designed for easy field service and
maintenance. When installed and used properly, they require
minimal maintenance.
The smoke detector should be tested monthly. See Testing theDetector Sensitivity and Smoke Testing the Detector.
ESL 500N Series
Fire Prevention and Escape
The purpose of an early warning smoke detector is to detect the presence of
fire in its early stages and sound an alarm giving the occupants time to exit
the premises safely.
Avoid Fire Hazards
No detection device can protect life in all situations. Therefore, safeguards
should be taken to avoid potentially dangerous situations as follows:
•Do not smoke in bed.
•Do not leave children home alone.
•Never clean with flammable liquids such as gasoline.
•Properly store materials. Use general good housekeeping techniques
to keep your home neat and tidy. A cluttered basement, attic, or other
storage area is an open invitation to fire.
•Use combustible materials and electrical appliances carefully and
only for their intended uses. Do not overload electrical outlets.
•Do not store explosive and/or fast burning materials in your home.
•Even after proper precautions have been taken, fires can start.
Be prepared.
In Case of Fire
In the event of a fire, you should do the following:
•Leave immediately. Don’t stop to pack or search for valuables.
•In heavy smoke, hold your breath and stay low, crawl if
necessary. The clearest air is usually near the floor.
•If you have to go through a closed door, carefully feel the door
and doorknob to see if undue heat is present. If they seem cool,
brace your foot against the bottom of the door with your hip
against the door and one hand against the top edge. Open it
slightly. If a rush of hot air is felt, slam the door quickly and latch
it. Unvented fire tends to build up considerable pressure. Be sure
all members of the household realize and understands this danger.
•Use your neighbor’s phone or a street fire alarm box to call the
fire department. The job of extinguishing the fire should be left
to the professionals.
Be Prepared
Practice the following steps to prepare you and your family in the event
of a fire:
•Perform fire drills regularly. Use them to assure recognition of an
alarm signal.
•Draw a floor plan and show two exits from each room. It is important
that children be instructed carefully, because they tend to hide in
times of crisis.
•Establish one meeting place outside the home. Insist that everyone
meet there during an alarm. This will eliminate the tragedy of
someone reentering the house for a missing member who is
actually safe.
•If you have children and/or physically challenged people residing
in your household, use window decals to help emergency
personnel identify the sleeping quarters of these individuals.
WARNING
Smoke detectors CANNOT provide warnings for fires resulting
from explosions, smoking in bed or other furniture, ignition of
flammable liquids, vapors and gases, children playing with
matches or lighters.
Failure to properly install, test, and maintain a smoke detector
system may cause it to fail resulting in loss of life and/or
property.
Limited Warranty
ESL is a brand name of GE Interlogix, Inc. The manufacturer warrants this
smoke detector to be free from defects in material and workmanship under
conditions of normal use for a term of 3 years from the date of manufacture.
During the warranty period, if a GE Interlogix product or any of its
components becomes defective, it will be repaired or replaced without
charge.
Out-of-warranty units will be repaired at the discretion of the manufacturer,
if not, a card will be forwarded to the customer suggesting a replacement
unit and the cost of that unit.
This warranty does not apply to units which have been subject to abuse,
misuse, negligence or accident, or to which any modifications, alterations
or repairs have been made or attempted.
This warranty is extended only to the original purchaser of the smoke
detector and may be enforced only by such person. During the warranty
period, if the detector or any warranted components thereof becomes
defective, at the manufacturer’s discretion, it will be replaced or repaired
without charge if returned in accordance with the following instructions:
Obtain a Return Authorization Number by calling 1-800-648-7422 or 503692-4052, then carefully pack the unit it in a well padded and insulated
carton and return, postal charges prepaid to:
Customer Service
GE Interlogix, Inc.
12345 SW Leveton Drive
Tualatin, OR 97062-9938
A note should be included advising the nature of the malfunction. Care
must be exercised in the proper packing of detectors returned under this
warranty as GE Interlogix will not be responsible for warranty repairs to
equipment damaged because of improper packing.
The above warranty is in lieu of all other express warranties, and
implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular
purpose are limited in duration for a period of 3 years from the date of
manufacture. Under no circumstances shall manufacturer be liable to
the purchaser or any other person for incidental or consequential
damages of any nature, including without limitation damages for
personal injury or damages to property, and however occasioned,
whether alleged as resulting from breach of warranty by manufacturer, the negligence of manufacturer or otherwise. Manufacturer’s
liability will in no event exceed the purchase price of the product. Some
states do not allow limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts,
or the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages,
so the above limitations and exclusions may not apply to you. Unless a
longer period is required by applicable law, any action against
manufacturer in connection with this smoke alarm must be commenced
within one year after the cause of action has occurred.
No agent, employee or representative of the Manufacturer nor any other
person is authorized to modify this warranty in any respect. Repair or
replacement as stated above is the exclusive remedy of the purchase
hereunder. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you also have
other rights which vary from state to state.
WARNING
Limitations of smoke detectors
Smoke detectors are very reliable, but may not work under all conditions.
No smoke detector provides total protection of life or property. Smoke
detectors are not a substitute for life insurance.
Smoke detectors require a source of power to work.
This smoke detector will not operate and the alarm will not sound if the
detector is not installed properly.
Smoke detectors may not be heard. A sound sleeper or someone who has
taken drugs or alcohol may not awaken if the detector is installed outside a
bedroom. Closed or partially closed doors and distance can block sound.
This detector is not designed for the hearing impaired.
Smoke detectors may not always activate and provide warning early
enough. Smoke detectors only activate when enough smoke reaches the
detector. If a fire starts in a chimney, wall, roof, on the other side of closed
doors, or on a different level of the property enough smoke may not reach
the detector for it to alarm.
Smoke detectors are a significant help in reducing loss, injury and even
death. However, no matter how good a detection device is, nothing
works perfectly under every circumstance and we must warn you that
you cannot expect a smoke detector to ensure that you will never suffer
any damage or injury.
ESL 500N Series
5
Specifications
Voltagefor standard 6/12 V operation
(6 to 20 VDC), polarity
sensitive for standard 12/24 V
operation (8.5 - 33 VDC),
polarity sensitive
Maximum ripple pk-pk (6/12/24V)10% (V pk-pk)
Typical average standby current70 uA
Typical alarm current (6/12/24V)up to 60mA maximum if not
limited by control panel
Aux. relay contacts1A @ 30 VDC; Form C
Alarm contacts500mA @ 36 VDC (resistive)
Photoelectric sensitivity2.0% + 1.08 - 1.02
Operating termperature32 °F to 100 °F (0 °C to 37 °C )
Operating humidity range0 to 95% non-condensing
RFI immunity20V/m minimum; 0-1000MHz
Colorwhite head and base
Field wiring size12-24 AWG (16 - 22 AWG
recommended)
Electrical boxesFits standard single gang and
3 1/2” and 4” round ceiling
electrical boxes
Detector packaging10 detectors per carton
Heat detector specificationsrate-of-rise: 15°F/min and
>105 °F (8.3 °C/min and
>40.6 °C) fixed threshold:
135 °F (57.2 °C)
UL 2-wire compatibility identifiers: S09A, S10A, S11A
Drift compensation adjustment1.0%/ft. maximum
Detector head dimensions5.5” (14.0cm) diameter;
2” (5.0cm) deep
Mounting dimensions5.25” (13.3cm) diameter;
B 6 - 33V operation
C 8.5 - 33V operation
E End-of-Line relay
H Isolated rate-of-rise and fixed temp sensors
N New style
R Auxiliary relay
S 85dBa sounder
XT Multi criteria algorithm, rate-of-rise and fixed temp. sensors
12345 SW Leveton Drive
Tualatin, OR 97062
www.interlogixsecurity.com
www.sentrol.com