Page 1
VESDA VFT Product Guide VFT-15 VFT-15-C October 2014 Document: 16316 Revision: B Build: 3 Part Number: 29318...
Page 3
You acknowledge that you have not relied on any oral or written information, representation or advice given by or on behalf of Xtralis or its representatives.
Page 4
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide Document Conventions The following typographic conventions are used in this document: Convention Description Bold Used to denote: emphasis. Used for names of menus, menu options, toolbar buttons. Italics Used to denote: references to other parts of this document or other documents.
Page 5
15 holes, 0.1% obs/m (0.03% obs/ft) Class C 15 holes, 1.0% obs/m (0.305% obs/ft) 15 holes, 1.0% obs/m (0.305% obs/ft) * The VFT-15-C is not available in all regions. Please consult your nearest Xtralis office before placing an order. Approvals EN 54-20 www.xtralis.com...
Page 6
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide This page is intentionally left blank. www.xtralis.com...
For the purpose of calculating sampling point spacing, the equivalent maximum area coverage for the VFT-15 is 1,500 m² (16,150 ft²) with 15 sampling tubes. The basic system includes RS232, RS485 and TCP/IP interfaces for connecting to the Xtralis VSC and Xtralis VSM4 software. When connected by TCP/IP, Xtralis VSM4 enables the configuration and monitoring of a large number of systems by a single PC, which can be accessed from anywhere via any standard internet connection.
Page 10
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide This page is intentionally left blank. www.xtralis.com...
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Principle of Operation Air samples are drawn from the protected area through a microbore pipe network towards the detector. Microbore systems normally sample air from the end of the microbore tube via a microbore sampling point.
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide Alarms and Trace Mode The default settings of the four alarm states (Alert, Action, Fire1 and Fire2) and Trace are shown in the following table. Table 2-1: Default Behavior of Alarm States and Trace Mode...
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Detector Display Panel VFT detectors have a full display panel fitted to the main system. The display panel is used for annunciating the detector status and smoke levels, and can also be used to configure the detector.
Page 14
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide The following describes the display panel for the VFT detector. 1. Control and Configuration Buttons All local user-interface options are done using these buttons. A. Not used for VFT detectors E. Isolate / parameter scroll up key B.
Page 15
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis 5. Display LEDs Table 2-2: LED Descriptions Description Power Indicates that the power supply is ON. If the system processor is faulty, the General Fault, Power and Comms LEDs will be activated simultaneously.
Page 16
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide This page is intentionally left blank. www.xtralis.com...
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Installation The detector shall be installed in accordance with the following installation instructions and in a manner acceptable to the local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The detector is also intended to be installed in accordance with local installation codes such as the NFPA 72 National Fire Code and FIA Code of Practice.
Enables TCP/IP connections to a PC with Xtralis VSC or VSM4 via LAN/WAN. RS 232 Enables a direct serial connection to a PC with Xtralis VSC or VSM4 for configuration and monitoring. More information on connecting and using the communications interfaces can be found in Appendix D.
Page 19
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Detector Access To gain access to the interior of the detector, first disconnect the power supply then remove the front cover. It is secured by two screws underneath and hinged at the top, allowing complete removal. If the beacon option is fitted, a cable-loom is attached;...
Page 21
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis 3.2.2 Connection Interfaces The following tables define input and output connections for the VFT-15. For more information on how to connect the detectors to each other and PC software using the TCP/IP, RS232 and RS485 interfaces, refer to Appendix D.
Page 22
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide CN7: Output Relay Interface FIRE 2 Requires 7 x 0.2 - 6 A (24 AWG) cable Notes: Maximum relay contact rating is 2 A @ 30 VDC. Refer to Section 5.4.1 for details of individual sector relay FIRE 1 options.
Page 23
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Table 3-5: Connections from Current Output Board (Optional Module) Output Connections (i624) Output 1 All outputs have the following specifications: 20 VDC max. 4 - 20 mA output current (optional 0 - 20 mA) Output 2 7 x 0.2 - 6 A (24 AWG) cable...
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide Air Sampling Network The VESDA VFT detector uses Microbore tubing to provide air sampling points. For reliable smoke detection and flow monitoring performance, the detector must be connected to a balanced network comprised of between 1 and 15 equal length tubes. Two types of Microbore tube can be used, as listed below in Table 3-7.
Page 25
The normal tube length connecting to the metallic sampling hole should be 0.1m (0.33ft). To check for leakage use Xtralis VSC to set the VESDA VFT to sample from one port and follow the steps below: 1.
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide Remote Display Panel An installation kit is available for mounting a display panel up to 1 km away from the detector. It contains: 1 Blanking plate 1 Mounting Box 1 Fixing kit 1. Jumper Link 2.
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Starting Up After installation, it will be necessary to power up the system for configuring the detector according to site requirements and also to ensure that the detector and associated microbore tubes are properly installed.
Page 28
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide This page is intentionally left blank. www.xtralis.com...
VESDA by Xtralis Setup and Button Functionality The configuration of the detector is achieved by using a PC loaded with Xtralis VSC software or through the display panel. This section provides information on the button functionality in the display panel, and how to setup the detector and navigate through the Main Menu options.
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide User Functions User functions associated with some configuration and control buttons are described in this section. For more information on setup and configuration, refer to Chapter 5. Table 5-2: Description of User Functions for the Display Panel...
Access Code Entry may be aborted by pressing the MENU button. All of the following settings can be entered using the Xtralis VSC configuration software and a PC. This can reduce the time taken to enter certain values and parameters.
Page 32
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide Table 5-3: Engineering Parameters and Values Parameter Value Description VERSION *.** Version of Software in the processor module in the Main Unit. The software can be upgraded using a PC and a special interconnect lead.
Page 33
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Table 5-4: Configuration Mode Parameters and Values (continued...) Display Panel Parameter Range Factory Default Shorthand FLOWLO1 Flow Low 1 Limit 0 to 95% FLOWLO2 Flow Low 2 Limit 0 to 95% DFLOWHI2 Detector Flow High 2 Limit...
Page 34
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide TRCLTCH, ALTLTCH, ACTLTCH, F1LTCH, F2LTCH Defines whether Alarm events are to be latched. If not latched, the Alarm condition will clear as soon as the cause disappears. If latched, the system must be reset to clear the Alarms. Note that the ACCEPT or SOUNDER SILENCE buttons may be used to stop the internal sounder, and the ISOLATE button may be used to disable all Alarm relays.
Page 35
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis ADDRESS This is the detector's RS485 address. The range is 0 to 30; a value of 31 disables RS485 communications. The default setting is 31 (off). Note that if the display panel is used remotely, communication to it is by means of this RS485 communications port, and the ADDRESS setting is not used.
Page 36
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide 5.3.5 SECTORS ALMS: Set Sector Day and Night Alarms Minimum Access Code Required: Level 1 The display will now show DAY VALUES, use Parameter UP & DOWN to change to NIGHT VALUES. Press ENTER to access the settings for all the sectors.
Page 37
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis 5.3.6 TIME DATE: Set Time and Date Minimum Access Code Required: Level 1 Figure 5-2: Display for setting time and date. After accessing this menu item, the display will now show the date in the format 'day - date - month - year' (refer to Figure 5-2), with the date flashing.
Page 38
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide 5.3.7 WEB: Set IP Address and Mask Minimum Access Code Required: Level 1 Figure 5-3: IP Address and IP Mask display - default values shown. The display will now show the text IP ADDRESS. Press UP button to show the IP Address with the first field flashing: 1.
Page 39
Note: It is highly recommended to leave this value at 0. Changing the value from 0 will cause some configuration values to change. Connection to the Xtralis VSC software will automatically change this value back to 0. OBSC/FT 0 or 1 Set to 1 to display smoke value in % obs/ft.
Page 40
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide The VFT detector can operate in a number of different languages. To change the language, the correct country code (CCODE) must be entered. Table 5-7: Country Codes for the VFT Language Code English (default)
Page 41
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Table 5-8: Maintenance Parameters Description Parameter LASERIN Current smoke value for the laser detector output LASERHI Additional smoke detector data (Factory Use) LASERM Additional smoke detector data (Factory Use) LASERLO Additional smoke detector data (Factory Use)
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide Input-Output Modules VFT detectors have 5 relays fitted as standard. The I/O functionality may be extended by adding I/O modules. These plug onto the standard I/O module in a stackable chain of up to 5. They are recognized by the processor as Modules 1 to 5 going from left to right.
Page 43
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Figure 5-4: Relay Module Single pole double throw (SPDT) contacts are used in the relay modules with a rating of 2 A at 24 VDC. www.xtralis.com...
Page 44
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide 5.4.2 8-Channel, 4 - 20mA Output Module The 8-Channel Output Module may be used for retransmission of airflow or smoke levels. Note: Not tested for UL/ULC Fire Alarm connection application. Figure 5-5: 8-Channel, 4 - 20 mA Output Module...
Page 45
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis To install and configure the output module, set applicable parameters according to the following table. Table 5-11: 8-Channel Output Module Configuration Parameters Menu Item Parameter Value SETUP (MODULE n) Set to ANOUT 8...
Page 46
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide This page is intentionally left blank. www.xtralis.com...
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Maintenance Note: Routine tests should be carried out by qualified personnel. Inspection The following steps should be carried out in accordance with local codes and standards: 1. Check control panel for fault indications etc.
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide Servicing Note: Servicing should only be carried out by trained service contractors. Ensure that all relevant site personnel & supervising authorities have been informed and, where necessary, the system has been isolated from the main building alarm system before undertaking any actions which may result in Alarm and/or Trouble/Fault conditions.
10% to 95% Note: Consult your Xtralis office for operation outside these parameters or where sampled air is continually above 0.05% obs/m (0.015% obs/ft) under normal operating conditions. * Product UL listed for use from 0 °C to 38 °C (32 °F to 100 °F)
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide Area Covered Area Up to 1,500 m² (16,150 ft²) Cabling Access 7 x 25mm (1”) cable entries Termination Screw Terminal blocks 0.2–2.5 mm² (30-12 AWG) Interfaces Power Power In Relays 4 Alarm Relays, 1 Fault Relay...
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis B Microbore Networks The detectors rely on a properly designed and installed microbore network to sample air. Guidelines for designing and installing microbore networks are described in this section. For detailed information refer to the VESDA Pipe Network Design and Installation Guides.
Page 54
Microbore system performance is mainly dependant upon transport time and hole sensitivity. Alarm thresholds can be configured for the detector via Xtralis VSC software or through the display panel, but transport time is influenced by the number of microbore tubes used by the detector.
Page 55
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis Site name and address Site measurements and layout Factors requiring special attention The number and location of VESDA addresses Overlay showing the pipe network layout with sampling hole positions Transport times Alarm thresholds...
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide Microbore Installation Guidelines These instructions are the basic sequence of steps you will be required to perform when installing a microbore network. The normal procedure for installation is: 1. Check the design documents to gather information on the pipe network design specifications.
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis C The Commissioning Process The commissioning process is a step by step process designed to systematically check and validate all operational aspects of the VESDA system. The process benchmarks the performance levels tailored for each site and generates necessary documentation for the effective management and maintenance of the system.
4. Microbore network installation record. 5. Relevant product and installation guides. 6. A set of VESDA commissioning forms (Xtralis Document 12678). 7. Other forms required by the local codes and standards. 8. A PC or Laptop with appropriate PC Software and Serial lead (9-pin female-to-female null modem cable) to configure and commission the system.
Change the settings to suit site requirements: Normalizing the air flow - Normalize the air flow using Xtralis VSC or the display panel. Refer to Section 4.1 for further information. Create smoke at the farthest sampling hole from the Detector to confirm that the detector registers the presence of smoke at approximately 30 seconds for the default 15 x 50m tube configuration, and less time where less tubes are fitted or where alternate tube configurations are used (refer to Section 3.3),...
Page 60
Ensure that the VESDA commissioning forms are complete and all relevant sections have been filled If you have used Xtralis VSC, select the Device or Address then select File | Print to print out a copy of configuration details and include a copy with the hand over documents.
PC via a standard internet connection. To set up the detector for TCP/IP communications to a PC with Xtralis VSC or VSM4 software, you will need standard Cat 5 Ethernet cables for connecting the PC Ethernet port to a LAN/WAN point, and each detector's Ethernet port to a LAN/WAN point.
To set up the detector for an RS232 connection to a PC with Xtralis VSC or VSM4 software, you will need a serial lead (9-pin female-to-female null modem cable). To connect the PC to the detector, use the serial lead to connect the serial port on the detector to the serial port on the PC.
PC via a RS485/RS232 converter For connecting VFT detectors to a PC loaded with Xtralis VSC or VSM4 software, you will need an RS232 to RS485 converter (Xtralis recommends the ADAM-4520 RS232/RS485 isolated converter). The requirements for RS485 cabling and installation are outlined in Section D.4.
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide Network Termination Terminate the network with 120 Ω resister at both the start and end of the network as shown in the following diagram. A. RS232 / RS485 Converter B. Bias Jumpers Required...
Page 65
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis It is the responsibility of the installer to provide a suitable environment to prevent damage to the equipment, and to reduce external interference to a level within which the equipment can operate as defined by its specification.
Page 66
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide D.4.2 Cable Material RS485 communication is established by current switching between a pair of wires at data rates of up to 250 kbps. The cable construction is specified as: Twisted pair of nominal 10 turns per meter or yard 40 pF to 60 pF meter between conductors 100 Ω...
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis E Laser Chamber Safety VFT-15 detector laser chambers incorporate a 658 nm laser with an average power less than 10mW and are located on the underside of the detector when mounted upright on a wall. The laser chamber is identified by two safety labels shown in the following diagrams.
Page 68
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide This page is intentionally left blank. www.xtralis.com...
VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide VESDA by Xtralis UL/ULC wiring requirements for Fire Alarm connection application Figure F-1: ULC input and output requirements 1. 24 VDC input power applied to terminals 1 & 2 of CN2 as shown in item A above. 24 VDC supply shall be a ULC-527 Listed Fire Alarm Control Panel or ULC-527 Listed power supply.
Page 70
VESDA by Xtralis VESDA VFT-15 Product Guide CN7: Output Relay Interface FIRE 2 Requires 7 x 0.2 - 6 A (24 AWG) cable Note: Maximum relay contact rating is 2 A @ 30 VDC. Refer to Section 5.4.1 for further details.
Need help?
Do you have a question about the VESDA VFT-15-C and is the answer not in the manual?
Questions and answers