FireRanger

Operation Manual

FireRanger Operating Manual

 

 

IMPORTANT!

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SAVE

 

This owner’s manual contains important information about your smoke sensor’s operation. If you are installing this smoke sensor for use by others, you must leave this manual—or a copy of it—with the end user.

Table of Contents

System Components. 4

Basic Functionality of the FireRanger. 4

Keypad Controller. 6

Installing Batteries 6

Turning on the Keypad. 6

Setting or Changing a Lockout Code. 6

When to Use Your Lockout Code. 7

If You Enter the Wrong Lockout Code. 7

If You Forget Your Lockout Code or If You Want to Remove the Lockout Code. 7

Turning off FireRanger 8

Panic Button  Operation. 8

Re-Activating After a Panic Condition. 8

Loss of Power 8

Smoke Event Sensor Condition. 9

Low Battery Indications 9

Range Interbox (200 VAC). 9

Interbox Loss of Power 9

Battery Powered Smoke Sensor. 10

Where to Place Your Smoke Sensor 10

Areas to Avoid When Placing Your Smoke Sensor: 11

How To Install This Smoke Sensor 12

Optional Locking Features of the Smoke Sensor 13

To Lock the Battery Compartment: 13

To Unlock the Battery Compartment: 13

To Lock the Mounting Bracket: 14

To Unlock the Mounting Bracket: 14

Weekly Testing. 14

Regular Maintenance. 14

Choosing a Replacement Battery. 15

If This Smoke Sensor Sounds 15

Using the Silence Feature. 16

Battery (DC) Operated Smoke Sensors 16

Troubleshooting: 17

Limited Warranty. 19

What To Do In Case Of Fire. 21

 


 

System Components

 

 

Battery Powered Wireless Keypad Controller

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

220VAC Range Interbox (power cord

attached but not shown)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Battery Powered Smoke Sensor

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic Functionality of the FireRanger

 

The function of this product is to disconnect the power to an electric range in the event that smoke is detected by the dedicated smoke sensor.  The audible 'chirp' from the smoke sensor serves as a notice to the user that smoke has been detected and that the range has been shut off.

 

 

This product does not interact with any other existing smoke detectors in the home and therefore should not replace any existing smoke detectors.  This dedicated 'smoke sensor' serves only to detect smoke in the kitchen area and send an electronic signal to the 'Interbox' to shut off the range.

 

The FireRanger smoke sensor is designed to sense smoke and provide an audible warning sound, and subsequently send a signal to the Range Interbox to disconnect the power to the range.

 

This product is not designed or intended to replace an existing smoke detector system.

 

 

Keypad Controller

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Installing Batteries

 

To install batteries in the Keypad controller, remove the back panel by removing 4 Philips head screws securing the back panel of the Keypad controller. Install two (2) “AAA” batteries observing the correct polarity. Replace the back panel.

 

The current version of firmware requires that the Interbox and smoke sensor wireless transceivers be operating and in “ready” state before initiating the Keypad.

 

 

Turning on the Keypad

 

Press the button. The  button will illuminate Red. The Keypad has successfully been brought from its low current “sleep” mode. If no Lockout Code has been set, the Interbox controller will be armed (activated) at this time. The Green LED in the upper left hand corner of the Keypad will illuminate briefly, followed by the  Red LED extinguishing.

 

Please note that the button is also referred to as the Panic Button on page 8.

 

 

Setting or Changing a Lockout Code

 

The default Lockout Code is 0000, which is a NO LOCKOUT CODE condition.  To ensure an unauthorized user cannot operation the range, you will need to entire a 4-digit code.  To set or change the Lockout Code:

 

  1. The FireRanger must be turned off by pressing the Wait for the audible click indicating the range is off.
  2. Press the button, wait for the range to active.  You will hear one beep.
  3. Press the *     The LED at the top of the Keypad will turn Green.
  4. Press the  #     The LED at the top of the Keypad will turn Red.
  5. Enter a 4 digit code, e.g. 1234. The LED at the top of the Keypad will turn Green with each number pressed.
  6. The light on the button will turn on.
  7. Re-enter your chosen 4 digit code to confirm
  8. The LED at the top of the Keypad will flash twice indicating the new code is now set.

 

If, during the programming process you want to exit, or start over, press the  *  button.  Your current Lockout Code will still be valid.  

 

Note: if the Red LED illuminates at any point while re-entering the 4-number Lockout Code in Step 4, the password has been entered incorrectly or a problem with the Lockout Code entry has been encountered. Go back to step 1 and proceed as directed above.

 

If you are attempting to change the Lockout Code and this error occurs, the Lockout Code will revert back to the current Lockout Code. In the event you decide to not proceed with Step 2, press the  *  once to exit the Lockout Code Change mode.  The Lockout Code will return to what was originally entered.

 

 

When to Use Your Lockout Code

 

You will need to enter the Lockout Code if you have locked the range using the Keypad.  The range cannot be used until the Lockout Code is entered:

 

  1. Press the   button and it will become illuminated.
  2. Enter your code. The range is now ready to use.

 

If You Enter the Wrong Lockout Code

 

If the wrong Lockout Code is entered:

 

  1. Press the button twice
  2. Wait for the button to become illuminated
  3. Re-enter your correct Lockout Code.

 

If You Forget Your Lockout Code or If You Want to Remove the Lockout Code

 

  1. The FireRanger must be turned off by pressing the Wait for the audible click indicating the range is off.
  2. Press the button, wait for the range to active.  You will hear one beep.
  3. Press the *     The LED at the top of the Keypad will turn green.
  4. Press the #    The LED at the top of the Keypad will turn red.
  5. Enter The LED at the top of the Keypad will turn green with each number pressed.
  6. The light on the button will turn on.
  7. Press the to activate the range.

The Lockout Code is now removed and has been returned to a NO LOCKOUT CODE condition.  If you wish to re-enter a Lockout Code, see the section "Setting or Changing a Lockout Code".

 

 

Turning off FireRanger

 

To turn off FireRanger and lock the range, press the    button.  This will disable the Range Interbox power controller and place the Keypad in the low power sleep mode. 

 

If a Lockout Code has been set, to turn on FireRanger and the range you will need to enter the Lockout Code.  The range cannot be used until the Lockout Code is entered:

 

  1. Press the   
  2. Enter your code. The range is now ready to use.

 

If no Lockout Code has been set, you will only need to press the button.

 

Panic Button  Operation

 

If you require turning your range off safely from a distance, you can do this once FireRanger is activated.  You can manually turn off FireRanger by pressing the  button, and your range will shut off. An audible “beep” sequence will be heard from the Interbox controller indicating it has been turned off through the Panic Mode, repeating approximately every 10 minutes. Also the  LED will flash indicating the same condition.

 

Re-Activating After a Panic Condition

 

If no Lockout Code has been set, press the    button to re-activate the Interbox.  If a Lockout Code has been set, you will need to press the    and then enter your Lockout Code.  The Interbox will restart the range, the  LED will stop flashing, and the range is now ready to use.

 

Loss of Power

 

In the event of a power disruption to your range, even briefly, the Interbox will disarm and will not re-arm until manually commanded from the Keypad. The  LED will flash indicating a problem condition has occurred.  In this event, if no Lockout Code has been set, press the  button to re-activate the Interbox.  If a Lockout Code has been set, you will need to press the    and then enter your Lockout Code.  The range is now ready to use.

 

Smoke Event Sensor Condition

 

A smoke event will trigger the smoke sensor to continuously transmit a command to disarm the Interbox.  Once the Interbox controller de-activates, this smoke sensor transmission will cease. This will be indicated by an audible sensor from the smoke sensor and an audible beep sequence from the Interbox controller indicating it has been disarmed through the smoke sensor command.  This audible beep sequence will repeat approximately every 10 minutes.   The  LED will flash indicating a problem has occurred.  To restore operation after a smoke event, press the  key.

 

Note: The current version of firmware will only place the Keypad in low current sleep mode.  The Interbox, although disarmed, is still powered from a single phase of the supplied 220Vac. The smoke sensor will continue to enter low power mode, exiting temporarily to active mode approximately every 10 minutes to issue an RF transmission to the Interbox controller

 

Low Battery Indications

 

The Keypad will indicate a low battery condition when battery voltage begins to drop towards an unreliable operating voltage for the microcontroller. This will be indicated by the LED indication in the upper left corner indicating Red instead of Green.  The Interbox will issue a single beep every RF transmission cycle (approximately every 10 minutes).

 

 

 

Range Interbox (200 VAC)

 

No batteries are required for the Interbox controller to operate. It is only necessary to plug the Interbox controller into a 220VAC range power outlet, and plug your range into the Interbox.

 

 

Interbox Loss of Power

 

In the event of a power disruption to your range, even briefly, the Interbox will disarm and will not re-arm until manually commanded from the Keypad. The  LED will flash indicating a problem condition has occurred.  In this event, press and release the  button to re-arm the Interbox.

 

 

 

 

Battery Powered Smoke Sensor

 

IMPORTANT!

PLEASE READ BEFORE YOU INSTALL THIS SMOKE SENSOR

 

This unit monitors the air, and when smoke reaches its sensing chamber, it sensors. It can give you more time to escape before fire spreads. This unit can ONLY give an early warning of developing fires if it is installed, maintained and located where smoke can reach it, and where all residents can hear it, as described in this manual. This unit will not sense gas, heat, or flame. It cannot prevent or extinguish fires. Read “Where to Place Your Smoke Sensor" and "Areas to Avoid"  before beginning.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where to Place Your Smoke Sensor

 

All components of the FireRanger system must be operational (powered) and within RF transceiver functional range typically within 8m (26 feet).  The recommended placement of the smoke sensor on the ceiling is 4-6 metres (14-20 feet) from the range. If placement on the ceiling is impractical, it is acceptable to place the smoke sensor 30 centimeters (12 inches) from any ceiling or wall corner.  Example:  minimum 30 centimeters (12 inches) out from the wall, or 30 centimeters down from the ceiling. In areas where a 4-6 metre distance is not possible – in modular, mobile, or smaller homes, for example – it is recommended the smoke sensor be placed as far from the range as possible. Unwanted sensors can occur if a smoke sensor is placed directly next to a fuel-burning source. Ventilate these areas as much as possible.

 

This unit is designed to be mounted on the ceiling, or on the wall if necessary.

 

 

 

 

 

Areas to Avoid When Placing Your Smoke Sensor:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

How To Install This Smoke Sensor

 

Tools you will need:

 The Parts of This Unit

To remove the mounting bracket from the smoke sensor base, hold the smoke sensor base firmly and twist the mounting bracket counterclockwise.

 

  1. Remove the mounting bracket from the smoke sensor base. Hold the mounting bracket against the ceiling (or wall) and make a mark at the center of each of the mounting slots with a pencil.

 

  1. Put the unit where it won’t get covered with dust when you drill the mounting holes.

 

  1. Using a 3/16” (5 mm) drill bit, drill a hole through each pencil mark.

 

  1. Insert the plastic screw anchors (in the plastic bag with screws) into the holes. Tap the screw anchors gently with a hammer, if necessary, until they are flush with the ceiling or wall.

 

  1. Tighten the screws (provided) into the screw anchors.

 

  1. Activate the battery. With the battery compartment open, install the battery so the terminals on the battery match the terminals on the smoke sensor. Match “+” to “+” and “-” to “-.” Push the battery in until it snaps in securely and cannot be shaken loose. If the battery is not snapped in completely, the unit cannot receive battery power. The smoke sensor may beep briefly when you install the battery—this is normal.

 

  1. Position the base of the smoke sensor over the mounting bracket and turn. The sensor can be positioned over the bracket every 60°. Turn the smoke sensor clockwise (right) until the unit is in place.

 

  1. Test the smoke sensor. See “Weekly Testing.”

Optional Locking Features of the Smoke Sensor

 

The locking features are designed to discourage unauthorized removal of the battery or sensor. It is not necessary to activate the locks in single-family households where unauthorized battery or sensor removal is not a concern. This smoke sensor has two separate locking features: one to lock the battery compartment, and the other to lock the smoke sensor to the mounting bracket. You can choose to use either feature independently, or use them both.

 

Tools you will need:

 

Both locking features use locking pins, which are molded into the mounting bracket. Using needle nose pliers or a utility knife, remove one or both pins from the mounting bracket, depending on how many locking features you want to use.

 

To permanently remove either lock, insert a flathead screwdriver between the locking pin and the lock, and pry the pin out of the lock.

To Lock the Battery Compartment:

 

Do not lock the battery compartment until you have installed the battery and tested the unit.

 

  1. Push and hold test button until the sensor sounds: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, pause. If the unit does not sensor during testing, DO NOT lock the battery compartment! Install a new battery and test again. If the smoke sensor still does not sensor, replace it
  2. Using needle-nose pliers or a utility knife, detach one locking pin from the mounting bracket.
  3. Push the locking pin through the hole near the battery drawer on the back of the smoke sensor.

To Unlock the Battery Compartment:

 

  1. Remove the smoke sensor from the mounting bracket. If the unit is locked to the bracket, see the section “To Unlock the Mounting Bracket.”
  2. Insert a flathead screwdriver under the head of the locking pin, and gently pry it out of the battery compartment lock. (If you plan to relock the battery compartment, save the locking pin.)
  3. To relock the battery compartment, close the battery door and reinsert locking pin in lock.
  4. Reattach the smoke sensor to the mounting bracket. When replacing the battery, always test the smoke sensor before relocking the battery compartment.

 

To Lock the Mounting Bracket:

 

  1. Using needle-nose pliers, detach one locking pin from mounting bracket.
  2. Insert the locking pin into the lock located on the pivoting hinge of the battery door.
  3. When you attach the smoke sensor to the mounting bracket, the locking pin’s head will fit into a notch on the bracket.

To Unlock the Mounting Bracket:

 

  1. Insert a flathead screwdriver between the mounting bracket pin and the mounting bracket.
  2. Pry the smoke sensor away from the bracket by turning both the screwdriver and the smoke sensor counterclockwise (left) at the same time.

 

DO NOT attach this sensor to an electrical junction box. Attachment to an electrical box may impair the sensor’s operation. Attach directly to wallboard or flat wall or ceiling surface.

 

 

Weekly Testing

 

NEVER use an open flame of any kind to test this unit. You might accidentally damage or set fire to the unit or to your home. The built-in test switch accurately tests the unit’s operation as required by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc. (UL). It is important to test this unit every week to make sure it is working properly. Using the test button is the recommended way to test this smoke sensor. Press and hold the test button on the cover of the unit until the sensor sounds (the unit may continue to sensor for a few seconds after you release the button). If it does not sensor, make sure the unit is receiving power and test it again. If it still does not sensor, replace it immediately. During testing you will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, and pause.

 

 

Regular Maintenance

 

This unit has been designed to be as maintenance free as possible, but there are a few simple things you must do to keep it working properly. Use only the replacement batteries listed below. The unit may not operate properly with other batteries. Never use rechargeable batteries since they may not provide a constant charge.

 

 

Actual battery service life depends on the smoke sensor and the environment in which it is installed. All the batteries specified below are acceptable replacement batteries for this unit. Regardless of the manufacturer’s suggested battery life, you MUST replace the battery immediately once the unit starts “chirping” (the “low battery warning”).

 

The smoke sensor will “chirp” when the voltage of the battery begins to drop towards an unreliable voltage level. As well the Interbox will issue a single beep every RF transmission cycle (once, approximately every 10 minutes). It is recommended that the 9 volt battery be changed once a year in the unit.

 

Choosing a Replacement Battery

 

Your smoke sensor requires one standard 9V battery. The following batteries are acceptable as replacements: Duracell #MN1604, (Ultra) #MX1604; Eveready (Energizer) #522. You may also use a Lithium battery like the Ultralife U9VL-J for longer service life between battery changes. These batteries are available at many local retail stores.

 

If This Smoke Sensor Sounds

 

You will hear a loud, repeating horn pattern: 3 beeps, pause, 3 beeps, and pause.

 

If the unit sounds and you are not testing the unit, it is warning you of a potentially dangerous situation that requires your immediate attention. NEVER ignore any sounds. Ignoring the smoke sensor may result in injury or death.

 

NEVER remove the batteries from a battery operated smoke sensor to stop an unwanted sensor (caused by cooking smoke, etc.). Removing batteries disables the sensor so it cannot sense smoke, and removes your protection. Instead open a window or fan the smoke away from the unit. The sensor will reset automatically.

 

If the unit sounds, get everyone out of the house immediately.

 

 

Using the Silence Feature

 

The Silence Feature can temporarily quiet an unwanted sensor for up to 10 minutes. To use this feature, press the “Test/Silence” button. The Silence Feature does not disable the unit.   It makes it temporarily less sensitive to smoke. For your safety, if smoke around the unit is dense enough to suggest a potentially dangerous situation, it will stay in sensor, or may re-sensor quickly. If you do not know the source of the smoke, do not assume it is an unwanted sensor. Not responding to an sensor can result in property loss, injury or death. EX

 

Battery (DC) Operated Smoke Sensors

 

Provide protection even when electricity fails, provided the batteries are fresh and correctly installed. Units are easy to install, and do not require professional installation.

 

Operating this smoke sensor with most battery-powered UPS (uninterruptible power supply) products or square wave or “quasi sine wave” inverters will damage the sensor. If you are not sure about your inverter or UPS type, please consult with the manufacturer to verify.

Special care should be taken for the hearing impaired. Although the system is designed to help in fire prevention, Special care should be considered for the hearing impaired.

 

Smoke sensors are not to be used with detector guards unless the combination has been evaluated and found suitable for that purpose. All these smoke sensors are designed to provide early warning of fires if located, installed and cared for as described in the user’s manual, and if smoke reaches them. If you are unsure which type of smoke sensor to install, refer to Chapter 2 of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Standard 72 (National Fire sensor Code) and NFPA 101 (Life Safety Code). National Fire Protection Association, One Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269-9101. Local building codes may also require specific units in new construction or in different areas of the home.

 

 

Troubleshooting:

 

Problem and Possible Cause

Possible Solution

 

If you hear four beeps: 

An sensor condition has caused the Interbox to disengage the main relay.  This will be heard every 10 minutes

 

 

If you hear three beeps: 

The Interbox main relay has been disengaged because the Interbox has missed two consecutive RF messages from one of the battery operated devices.  This will be heard every 10 minutes.

 

 

If you hear two beeps:  The Interbox main relay has been disengaged after failing to pass the relay failure mitigation test.  This will be

heard every 10 minutes.

 

 

If you hear one beep: 

One of the battery operated devices has a low battery voltage detected.  The Interbox main relay will remain unchanged.

 

 

If you hear a “chirp” once a minute

 

Replace the battery in the smoke sensor and/or keypad?)

 

If you experience frequent non-emergency sensors (like those caused by cooking smoke),

Try relocating the smoke sensor (See the section "Where to Place Your Smoke Sensor)

 

If the smoke sensor sounds when no smoke is visible

 

The cover of the smoke sensor may require cleaning.  Or you can relocate the smoke sensor (See the section "Where to Place Your Smoke Sensor).

 

If the sensor does not sound during testing

 

Replace the smoke sensor battery, and make sure it is snapped in securely

 

 

 

Note:  The smoke sensor single beep is shorter in duration and of a higher frequency, like a chirp.  The Keypad has a single beep of the same duration and frequency of the other individual beeps described above.

 

 

 

 

 

IF YOU SUSPECT A PROBLEM that your smoke sensor may not operate properly because of a dead, missing or weak battery, a build-up of dirt, dust or grease on the smoke sensor cover, or installation in an improper location, clean the smoke sensor as described in “Regular Maintenance,” and install a fresh battery, then test the unit again. If it fails to test properly when you use the test button, or if the problem persists, contact Marsco Technologies Inc. at 1‑800-590-4309 to replace the smoke sensor immediately.

 

If the smoke sensor is still not operating properly, and it is still under warranty, please see “How to Obtain Warranty Service” in the Limited Warranty below. Do not

 

 

Limited Warranty

 

Marsco Technologies Inc. - FireRanger product(s) warrants that for a period of 1 (one) year from the date of purchase, this product will be free from defects in material and workmanship.

Marsco Technologies Inc., at its option, will repair or replace this product or any component of the product found to be defective during the warranty period. Replacement will be made with a new or remanufactured product or component. If the product is no longer available, replacement may be made with a similar product of equal or greater value. This is your exclusive warranty. This warranty is valid for the original retail purchaser from the date of initial retail purchase and is not transferable. Keep the original sales receipt. Proof of purchase is required to obtain warranty performance.

 

Marsco Technologies Inc. dealers, service centers, or retail stores selling Marsco Technologies Inc. products do not have the right to alter, modify or any way change the terms and conditions of this warranty.

 

This warranty does not cover normal wear of parts or damage resulting from any of the following: negligent use or misuse of the product, use on improper voltage or current, use contrary to the operating instructions, disassembly, repair or alteration by anyone other than Marsco Technologies Inc. or an authorized service center. Further, the warranty does not cover Acts of God, such as fire, flood, hurricanes and tornadoes or any batteries that are included with this unit. Marsco Technologies Inc. shall not be liable for any incidental or consequential damages caused by the breach of any express or implied warranty. Except to the extent prohibited by applicable law, any implied warranty of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose is limited in duration to the duration of the above warranty. Some states, provinces or jurisdictions do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages or limitations on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitations or exclusion may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state or province to province.

 
 
How to Obtain Warranty Service:
If service is required, do not return the product to your retailer. In order to obtain warranty service, contact Marsco Technologies Inc. at 1-800-590-4309 .

 

To assist us in serving you, please have the model number and date of purchase available when calling.

 

For Warranty Service return to:

Marsco Technologies Inc. 23 Carmichael Court, Brookside, NS, Canada B3T 1T1

 

Battery: Marsco Technologies Inc. makes no warranty, express or implied, written or oral, including that of merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose with respect to battery.

 

 

try fixing the sensor yourself – this will void your warranty!

 

 

 

 

 

ISTING HOMES

LIMITATIONS OF FireRanger – FireRanger will play a key role in reducing deaths resulting from home fires worldwide. However, like any device, the FireRanger smoke sensor can only work if they are properly located, installed, and maintained and if smoke reaches them. They are not foolproof.  Smoke sensors may not waken all individuals. Practice the escape plan at least twice a year, making sure that everyone is involved – from kids to grandparents. Allow children to master fire escape planning and practice before holding a fire drill at night when they are sleeping. If children or others do not readily waken to the sound of a smoke sensor, or if there are infants or family members with mobility limitations, make sure that someone is assigned to assist them in fire drill and in the event of an emergency. It is recommended that you hold a fire drill while family members are sleeping in order to determine their response to the sound of the smoke sensor while sleeping and to determine whether they may need assistance in the event of an emergency.

 

FireRanger cannot work without power. Battery operated units cannot work if the batteries are missing, disconnected or dead, if the wrong type of batteries are used, or if the batteries are not installed correctly.

 

The FireRanger smoke sensor cannot detect fires if the smoke does not reach them. smoke from range fires in on the other side of closed doors may not reach the sensing chamber and set off the sensor.

 

Smoke sensors may not be heard. Though the sensor horn in this unit meets or exceeds current standards, it may not be heard if: 1) the unit is located outside a closed or partially closed door, 2) residents recently consumed alcohol or drugs, 3) the sensor is drowned out by noise from stereo, TV, traffic, air conditioner or other appliances, 4) residents are hearing impaired or sound sleepers.

 

Smoke sensors may not have time to sensor before the fire itself causes damage, injury, or death, since smoke from some fires may not reach the unit immediately. Smoke sensors are made of components that can wear out or fail at any time. You must test the unit weekly to ensure your continued protection. FireRanger cannot prevent or extinguish fires. They are not a substitute for property or life insurance. FireRanger has a limited life. The unit should be replaced immediately if it is not operating properly.

 


 

 

What To Do In Case Of Fire