CEO, Firewize
08 Jul, 2022
Over 30 years ago Quintrix Communications launched the QE90 Emergency Warning and Communication System, which is argubaly the most popular emergency warning system in Australia. At Fire Australia, Johnson Controls launched the QE20 the logical successor to the QE90 for the next generation of Emergency Warning and Intercommunication System.
The QE20 has been redesigned and built from the ground up with a new power supply system, new Class D amplifiers and localised configuration. If the success of the QE90 is any indication, the QE20 is likely to be very exciting.
With a heritage of innovation the QE20 incorporates manu new features into its design to enable first responders and the emergency control organisation in a building to effectively, efficiently and safely evacuations of a building in the event of a fire or other emergency.
The QE20 begins with a completely new interface and liquid crystal display. The new interface retains the logical matrix of tactile press buttons to copntrol the operation of the system.
The QE20 is now fitted with Class D amplifiers which are more efficient, operate at a much cooler temperature and offer improved voice intelligibility.
The new Class D amplifiers help make way for a new modular 27 amp primary power supply configuration and matching secondary (battery) backup.
For system designers, integrators and installers, the QE20 is now field programmable making it ideal for staged construction implementation and on-site modifications.
We also understand the QE20 will also incorporate advanced networking features and has the capacity for a graphical user interface, building on the legacy of the QE90.
In May 2022, the Vigilant (Johnson Controls) QE20 emergency warning control and inicating equipment was evaluated and verified by CSIRO Australia (afp - 3600) as conforming with the relevant requirements and criteria;
While this system has been approved, as at the time of the publication of this article, there is very little information available publically about the QE20. We should reasonably expoect to learn more later in 2021 with training sessions and product briefings expected later in 2022.
While the launch of the QE20 occurred at Fire Australia, it is expected that the first orders will be shipped in the first quarter of 2023.
In the mean time, people installing the QE90 now will not be dissapointed. The QE90 has had a 30+ year career and remains a robust and reliable platform in Australia.