Risco RWX34S Smoke and Heat Detector

The RWX34S smoke and heat detector has been introduced to complement the growing range of wire-free products from Risco. This unit combines two separate detection technologies to maximise both performance and applications for use. Designed for the domestic market, the RWX34S is compatible with all Risco wire-free systems. The detector is supplied with a surface mount quick release base, mounting screws, batteries and installation instructions.

Installation of the RWX34S is a simple affair requiring only two screws to secure the base in the chosen location, the smoke and heat detector then merely clips into place with a clockwise turn. A locking pin is provided to ensure the unit doesn’t come loose. The accompanying instructions are clear and concise (if a little small for aging eyes) and include fairly detailed notes on correct mounting positions for the detector.

Power is provided via two 3V Lithium CR123A batteries that mount under a cover on the rear of the detector and should give an operational life of around three years. Before powering the unit however, the method of detection needs to be selected via the three dip switches at the back of the unit.

The following detection modes are selectable:

• Smoke Only
• Heat Only
• Smoke and Heat (OR logic)

If smoke and heat detection mode is enabled, the position of the other two dip switches is ignored.

Smoke detection uses a photoelectric chamber and complies with EN 14604 requirements. Heat detection is via two separate sensors providing both fixed temperature and rate of rise detection.

Our evaluation unit was tested in conjunction with the LightSYS 2 hybrid control panel but the product is compatible with all RISCO wire-free systems (both 1-way and 2-way).  With the control panel in the RF learn mode, the batteries are placed in the detector and the tamper switch operated for a period of three seconds to send a write message to the panel which then displays recognition of the device.

When activated the detector has an onboard sounder providing approximately 85dB at 3 metres away. There is a self-test button on the face of the detector which will activate both the onboard sounder and send an alarm message to the control panel. We tested the unit for a variety of mounting locations and operation modes. The RWX34S performed reliably for all modes of detection throughout our time with the product and at ranges significantly greater than are like to be experienced in most residential applications.

The RWX34S combined smoke and heat detector is a welcome addition to the Risco wire-free range providing a new dimension to their residential products. The unit is quite compact, although perhaps a little deeper than common standalone detectors and manufacturing quality appears to be good. Dual detection technologies provide superior performance and true flexibility for residential applications. In this instance, one might say – one detector fits all.