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Point-Type Detection

VIGILANT 850 Series (Generation 6)

MX addressable detectors with two-way infrared — test, program and interrogate a head from the ground with the 850EMT.

MX addressablePhotoelectric / heat / COInfrared servicingBuilt-in isolator
OriginAustralia / New Zealand
OwnershipJohnson Controls (VIGILANT brand)

Infrared servicing and the 850EMT

The defining feature of Generation 6 is bi-directional infrared. The 850EMT Engineering Management Tool is a hand-held device with a colour touchscreen that works, in the brochure’s words, like a remote control — pointing at a detector to test it, change its configuration and read its status and faults without touching it.

The practical effect is on the two things that cost money after the panel is on the wall: commissioning turnaround and routine service. Programming and testing happen in a single visit, and much of the ladder and scaffold work in fire-alarm install and service disappears along with the work-at-height risk that goes with it.

Detection and reliability

  • All input sources fully monitored, so detectors are always operating within designed parameters
  • Fastlogic algorithms discriminate against common false-alarm sources
  • Multi-sensor algorithms for performance in challenging environments
  • SmartSense algorithm used by the 850PC and 850H
  • Selectable logic modes and sensitivities — 850P two modes × three sensitivities; 850PH four modes × three
  • Continuous receptive self-monitoring, automatic self-test on all sensor channels
  • Built-in short-circuit line isolator keeps all detectors operating through a loop short
  • Multifunction LED indicators flag a detector that is out of commission

Service life and environmental hardening

Extended Service Life raises the alarm threshold as the device ages, and a new optical chamber uses the full dynamic range of the sensor to get maximum drift compensation — the aim being the longest service life while holding approved sensitivity. The brochure claims dynamic drift compensation typically delivers more than twice the service life of previous detector generations.

The redesigned smoke chamber comes with an improved insect screen, advanced tropicalisation and compensation for dust and dirt contamination over time. The optical chamber screen improves steam resistance, circuit boards are treated to resist moisture, and the thermistor is fully coated against contamination.

Installation and compatibility

  • Time Saver Mount — commission detectors before the ceiling is installed
  • Single-visit programming and testing via infrared
  • Backward and forward compatibility, so systems can be upgraded without wholesale replacement
  • Works with VIGILANT MX1 Network panels and Simplex 4100ESi panels and peripherals
  • Non-proprietary — serviceable and upgradeable by any trained technician
  • Available in a full range of PANTONE colours as well as standard white

A note on evidence level, because it matters for tender work. This page is compiled from the VIGILANT Generation 6 Range brochure (ref 850broVIG1711, © 2017 Johnson Controls), distributed by FlameStop. A brochure is strong on features and light on measured specification, and claims such as "world first", "2× service life" and "highest nuisance immunity" are the manufacturer’s marketing statements reproduced as stated, not independently verified. For design, tender or compliance work, substantiate them against the model-specific datasheets and approval listings — ActivFire / SAI Global, LPCB — and confirm host-panel compatibility before you rely on them.

Further reading

Fire detector brand & capability comparison VIGILANT brand deep-dive AS 1670 fire detection, warning and intercom

Frequently asked

What makes Generation 6 different from earlier VIGILANT detectors?

Two-way infrared communication, so detectors are tested and programmed from the ground with the 850EMT tool, plus drift compensation the brochure states delivers typically more than twice the service life of previous generations, and a built-in short-circuit isolator.

Which 850 model detects carbon monoxide?

The 850PC, which combines CO with smoke and heat and uses the SmartSense algorithm.

Do I still need an external loop isolator?

The 850 Series has a built-in short-circuit line isolator, and the brochure states this saves the cost of an external isolator. Confirm against your system design before you leave one out.

What do the two LEDs mean?

The 360° red LED is the fire alarm indication. The 360° amber LED is local fault indication, and also signals that the detector’s built-in short-circuit line isolator has operated.

Which panels does it work with?

VIGILANT MX1 Network panels and Simplex 4100ESi panels, along with their associated peripherals.

Where are the detailed electrical specifications?

Not in the range brochure this page is drawn from. Pull the individual 850P, 850PH, 850PC and 850H datasheets for voltages, currents, sensitivity bands, dimensions and approvals.

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