Ei Electronics Ei128R User manual

1
RELAY BASES
for Smoke, Heat & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
Instruction Manual
Read and retain carefully for as long as the product is being used.
It contains vital information on the operation and installation of
your product. This instruction manual should be regarded as part
of the product.
If you are just installing this product, this manual must be given
to the householder. The manual is to be given to any subsequent
user.
1. Introduction
The Ei128R & Ei128RBU Relay Bases switch a relay upon receipt
of an alarm signal from a hardwire interconnection with a mains
powered Ei Alarm. The electrically isolated relay contacts can be
used for many applications such as shutting off the mains supply
to boilers, triggering panels, etc. The Relay Bases are powered by
230VAC mains - with the Ei128RBU model having recharbeagle
back-up cells.
The Relay Bases are normally installed directly underneath an
Easi-fit Alarm base but can also be sited separately.
As supplied the relay operates continuously (e.g. it switches when
one of the Alarms sounds and switches back when it receives the
alarm cancel signal). When the slide switch is moved to the pulse
‘P’ position (see figures 1a & 1b) the relay will switch when the
Alarm sounds but will automatically switch back after 5 seconds.
This is commonly used with warden call systems where only
momentary short circuit signalling is required.
Both the Ei128R and Ei128RBU can be used in 230VAC and low
voltage applications with the Ei128RBU being best suited for low
voltage applications.
2. Overview
Models:
Ei128R
Ei128RBU
LOCATION FOR
SCREWS
Cover

2
Power Supply 230V AC
Battery back up
(Ei128RBU only)
6V rechargeable Lithium cells
Contact Rating 250V AC, 5A resistive
Continuous or Pulse mode
Output One volt free contact (NO/NC)
Power consumption
(Standby)
Ei128R: 0.5W
Ei128RBU: 0.8W
Interconnection Hardwire
System size Up to 12 devices
Fixings Supplied with screws, wall plugs and cover.
Operational life 10 years
Operating Temperature -10°C to +40°C
Humidity Range 15% to 95% RH (non-condensing)
RECHARGEABLE
CELLS
ON/OFF
SLIDE SWITCH
RELAY CHANGES
FOR 5 SECONDS
P - PULSE
REAR ENTRY
KNOCKOUT
SURFACE
CONDUIT
CABLE
ENTRY
SURFACE
CONDUIT
CABLE
ENTRY
SURFACE
CONDUIT
CABLE
ENTRY
SCREW
MOUNTING
HOLES
ON
PC
OFF
P - PULSE
RELAY CHANGES
FOR 5 SECONDS
C - CONTINUOUS
RELAY CHANGES UNTIL
ACTIVATION STOPS
THIS TERMINAL CAN BE
USED TO LOOP MAINS
POWER AND
INTERCONNECT
LINE TO THE ALARM
L - LIVE
N - NEUTRAL
IC - INTERCONNECT
P/C
IC IC
IC
LL
L
NN
N
CONNECT MAINS
TO TERMINAL BLOCK
NO
NC
C
NCCNO
VOLT FREE RELAY CONTACT
FOR THE CONTROL OF THE
AUXILIARY DEVICE
C - COMMON
NC - NORMALLY CLOSED
NO - NORMALLY OPEN
(DOUBLE INSULATE ALL WIRES)
VOLT FREE RELAY CONTACT
FOR THE CONTROL OF THE
AUXILIARY DEVICE
C - COMMON
NC - NORMALLY CLOSED
NO - NORMALLY OPEN
(DOUBLE INSULATE ALL WIRES)
THIS TERMINAL CAN BE
USED TO LOOP MAINS
POWER AND
INTERCONNECT
LINE TO THE ALARM
L - LIVE
N - NEUTRAL
IC - INTERCONNECT
CONNECT MAINS
TO TERMINAL BLOCK
L
N
IC
N
IC
L
PILLARS
SURFACE
CONDUIT
CABLE
ENTRY
REAR ENTRY
KNOCKOUT
SCREW
MOUNTING
HOLES
PILLARS
C - CONTINUOUS
RELAY CHANGES UNTIL
ACTIVATION STOPS
Figure 1b - Ei128RBU
RECHARGEABLE
CELLS
ON/OFF
SLIDE SWITCH
RELAY CHANGES
FOR 5 SECONDS
P - PULSE
REAR ENTRY
KNOCKOUT
SURFACE
CONDUIT
CABLE
ENTRY
SURFACE
CONDUIT
CABLE
ENTRY
SURFACE
CONDUIT
CABLE
ENTRY
SCREW
MOUNTING
HOLES
ON
PC
OFF
P - PULSE
RELAY CHANGES
FOR 5 SECONDS
C - CONTINUOUS
RELAY CHANGES UNTIL
ACTIVATION STOPS
THIS TERMINAL CAN BE
USED TO LOOP MAINS
POWER AND
INTERCONNECT
LINE TO THE ALARM
L - LIVE
N - NEUTRAL
IC - INTERCONNECT
P/C
IC IC
IC
LL
L
NN
N
CONNECT MAINS
TO TERMINAL BLOCK
NO
NC
C
NCCNO
VOLT FREE RELAY CONTACT
FOR THE CONTROL OF THE
AUXILIARY DEVICE
C - COMMON
NC - NORMALLY CLOSED
NO - NORMALLY OPEN
(DOUBLE INSULATE ALL WIRES)
VOLT FREE RELAY CONTACT
FOR THE CONTROL OF THE
AUXILIARY DEVICE
C - COMMON
NC - NORMALLY CLOSED
NO - NORMALLY OPEN
(DOUBLE INSULATE ALL WIRES)
THIS TERMINAL CAN BE
USED TO LOOP MAINS
POWER AND
INTERCONNECT
LINE TO THE ALARM
L - LIVE
N - NEUTRAL
IC - INTERCONNECT
CONNECT MAINS
TO TERMINAL BLOCK
L
N
IC
N
IC
L
PILLARS
SURFACE
CONDUIT
CABLE
ENTRY
REAR ENTRY
KNOCKOUT
SCREW
MOUNTING
HOLES
PILLARS
C - CONTINUOUS
RELAY CHANGES UNTIL
ACTIVATION STOPS
Figure 1a - Ei128R
3. Technical Specifications

3
Dimensions Product: 141mm x 21mm without cover or
26mm with cover
Package: 145mm x 145mm x 30mm
Weight 182g (Pack +30g)
Warranty 5 years
WARNING: Mains powered Relay Bases must be installed and
interconnected by a qualified electrician in accordance with the
relevant local regulations for Electrical installations. Failure to
install this device correctly may expose the user to shock or fire
hazards and damage the product. This unit is not waterproof and
must not be exposed to dripping or splashing.
The Relay Bases must only be interconnected with Ei Electronics
mains powered devices - otherwise they will not comply with the
mandatory safety regulations.
WARNING: An all-pole mains switch shall be incorporated in the
electrical installation of the building.
Attention: Alternative Energy Sources - (Wind, Solar, UPS, etc.)
This product is designed to be connected to a Pure or True Sine
Wave 230V AC supply.
If connecting to a power source that utilises an inverter, e.g. PV
solar panel, the Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) must be less than
5%. If in doubt please check with the manufacturer of the inverter.
This also applies to battery powered UPS (Uninterruptible Power
Supply) inverters.
The Relay Bases must not be powered from a light dimmer circuit.
WARNING: First disconnect the mains from the circuit to be used.
WARNING: To prevent injury, this apparatus must be securely
attached to the ceiling or wall in accordance with the installation
instructions.
5.1 Installation under an Easifit Alarm
1. Choose a mounting position following the siting instructions in
the Alarm manual.
2. Where the incoming wiring is surface mounted, the appropriately
sized ducting/conduit must be chosen to mate with the unit. Use
a sharp knife to remove material from the selected knockout,
making sure that there is no gap when mated with ducting /
conduit. There are three knockouts – two on the sidewall and
one on the rear. DO NOT USE the knockout closest to the P/C
switch.
Ei128RBU
or
Ei128R
Mains Alarm
(Smoke, Heat or CO) Figure 2
4. Important Safety Instructions
5. Installation

4
3. Remove the required knockout.
4. Bring the power supply through the knockout.
5. Connect the power supply wires (Live & Neutral) to the mains
terminal block of the relay base. If the earth wire is present,
connect it directly to the terminal markerd on the Alarm
mounting plate (see relevant Alarm instructions).
(Screw tightening torque: max 0.5Nm (5.1kgf.cm))
6. Screw the Relay Base in place.
7. If the central knockout is being used, seal around the wires with
silicone or similar to prevent air draughts that could affect the
performance of the Alarm to be sited on top.
8. Remove the wiring cover on the Alarm mounting plate to view
the terminal (see fig 3a).
9. Connectthe threewires (L=Live, N=Neutraland IC=Interconnect)
from the Relay Base to the terminal on the Alarm’s mounting
plate. The “IC” wire must be connected even if it is a single
Alarm installation.
9. Replace the wiring cover over the terminal wires on the Alarm’s
mounting plate.
10. Follow the instructions starting at 5.3 Wiring the relay section.
Insert screwdriver
to lift and remove
wiring cover
Figure 3a
Alarm Mounting Plate
Figure 4 - Relay to Alarm Wiring
Figure 3b
Alarm Terminal Block

5
5.2 Installation away from the Alarm
WARNING: When the relay is not installed underneath an Alarm,
the cover supplied must be fitted to ensure the user is not exposed
to fire or shock hazards.
1. Install the Alarm(s) as described in their manuals.
2. Install the Relay Base near the auxiliary device or in some
other location convenient for wiring. Where the incoming wiring is
surface mounted, the appropriately sized ducting/conduit must be
chosen to mate with the unit. Use a sharp knife to remove material
from the selected knockout, making sure that there is no gap when
mated with ducting / conduit. There are three knockouts – two
on the sidewall and one on the rear. DO NOT USE the knockout
closest to the P/C switch.
3. Remove the required knockout, bringing the wiring from one
of the Alarms through it and connecting the three wires (L=Live,
N=Neutral and IC=Interconnect) to the Relay Base mains terminal
block. (Screw tightening torque: max 0.5Nm (5.1kgf.cm)).
4. Screw the Relay Base in place.
5.3 Wiring the relay
1. Connect the L (Live) wire from the power supply of the auxiliary
device to the C (Common) terminal.
2. Then connect either the NC or NO contact of the relay
(depending on what is required for controlling the auxiliary
device) to the auxiliary device. For example, if the relay is used
to cut out a boiler in case of alarm, then NC should be used but
for a Beacon that should only be on in case of alarm, then the
NO should be used.
Ei128R / Ei128RBU
The above shows the connection for Carbon Monoxide Alarms.
Connect the Smoke/Heat Alarm similarly but on a separate circuit to the
Carbon Monoxide Alarm (unless an Ei1529RC Control Switch is used on the system)
Ei3018 Ei3018
Figure 5
L
IC
N
Earth wire if
present
C
NC
NO
L
IC
N
Auxiliary
Device
Mains AlarmEi128R / Ei128RBU
Auxiliary Device
Power Supply
Alarm and Relay
Power Supply
(230V AC)
+-
L
IC
N
Earth wire if
present
C
NC
NO
L
IC
N
C
NC
NO
External Device
(230V AC)
Mains Alarm
+
-
C
NC
NO
Alarm and Relay
Power Supply
(230V AC)
Ei128R / Ei128RBU
Figure 6

6
Alternatively, if the auxiliary device is powered from the same
circuit as the Alarms and Relay Base ie 230VAC, a link wire can
be inserted between the L (Live) terminal and the C (Common)
terminal of the Relay Base. Then, connect either the NC or NO
contact of the relay (depending on what is required) to the auxiliary
device. Connect the N (Neutral) terminal from the Relay Base to
the auxiliary device (see fig.7).
3. If momentary (pulse) relay operation is required, carefully
and gently slide the yellow switch to the left (P) position.
This is commonly used with warden call systems where only
momentary short circuit signalling is required. This must be
done before the mains power is connected or the rechargeable
cells (Ei128RBU only) are activated.
With the switch in the C position, the alarm signal will switch the
relay until it receives a cancel signal.
4. For the Ei128RBU only, connect the rechargeable cells by
carefully and gently sliding the yellow switch to the ON position.
This switch must be in the ON position to ensure correct operation.
5 If installed underneath the Alarm, screw the Alarm mounting
plate on top of the Relay Base. Line up the Alarm on the
mounting plate and slide on.
6 If installed away from the Alarm, fit and screw the cover to the
pillars using the two screws supplied.
7. Re-connect the mains power.
8. The green LED on the Alarm(s) should be on. When the test
button is pressed, the horn should sound, and the relay will
switch within 10 seconds.
Note: A maximum of 12 Alarms may be interconnected to one
Relay Base. When one Alarm sounds, all interconnected Alarms
will sound and the relay will switch.
Attention: Do not interconnect Carbon Monoxide Alarms with
Smoke/Heat Alarms unless an Ei1529RC control switch is used
in that system. The Ei1529RC control switch will allow the user
to identify quickly the source of the alarm (e.g. fire or CO gas)
and take appropriate action. This is important as the occupant will
need to open all windows and doors if it is a CO incident but do
the opposite to slow down a fire.
Note: The rechargeable cells of the Ei128RBU enable it to switch
during mains failure upon receipt of an alarm signal from a mains
powered Alarm with battery back up. The rechargeable cells can
power the relay for up to 2 months in the event of the mains being off.
The Ei128R does not have any battery back up and as such will
not switch during mains failure.
Note: Auxiliary devices connected to the relay contacts do not give
a warning until the contacts have switched for at least 200mSec.
L
IC
N
Earth wire if
present
C
NC
NO
L
IC
N
Auxiliary
Device
Mains AlarmEi128R / Ei128RBU
Auxiliary Device
Power Supply
Alarm and Relay
Power Supply
(230V AC)
+-
L
IC
N
Earth wire if
present
C
NC
NO
L
IC
N
C
NC
NO
External Device
(230V AC)
Mains Alarm
+
-
C
NC
NO
Alarm and Relay
Power Supply
(230V AC)
Ei128R / Ei128RBU
Figure 7

7
We recommend a monthly check of your Alarm system.
When checking the system also check the Relay Base as follows:
1. Check that the green LED power indicator is lit on the Alarm
that is electrically connected to the Relay Base. If it is off, check
the circuit breaker fuse, wiring, etc.. when the mains power is
restored, the green LED will come on solid.
2. Press the Alarm Test Button and check that:
a. The relay switches and
b. The auxiliary device behaves as expected
End of Life
After 10 years (see date label on the side of the Relay Base) the
Relay Base must be replaced.
It is important to check that the rechargeable cells in the Ei128RBU
are switched on, charged and capable of switching the relay contacts.
This should be done after installation and then at least annualy.
1. Disconnect the mains supply.
2. Check the relay as described in section 6.
3. If everything is satisfactory, re-connect the mains.
If the relay fails to operate, then the unit is defective and must be
replaced (see section 8).
If, within the guarantee period, your Relay Base fails to work after
your have carefully read all the instructions, checked that the unit
has been installed correctly, and is receiving AC power, then
contact us at the nearest address given at the end of this manual.
If you are advised to return your Relay Base, please ensure that it
is placed in a padded box, that the slide switch for the rechargeable
cells is on the OFF position (Ei128RBU only) and include the proof
of purchase and a note stating the nature of the fault.
Ei Electronics, guarantees the Relay Bases for five years from date
of purchase against any defects that are due to faulty materials or
workmanship. If this Relay Base should become defective within
the guarantee period, we shall at our discretion repair or replace
the faulty unit.
This guarantee only applies to normal conditions of use and
service, and does not include damage resulting from accident,
neglect, misuse, unauthorised dismantling, or contamination
howsoever caused. This guarantee excludes incidental and
consequential damage.
This guarantee does not apply to any product that has been
modified in any way by a third party or has been fitted with a
third-party element.
Do not interfere with the Relay Base or attempt to tamper with it.
This will invalidate the guarantee, but more importantly may expose
the user to shock or fire hazards.
This guarantee is in addition to your statutory rights as a consumer.
7. Checking the Relay Back Up Cells (Ei128RBU)
8. Getting your Relay Base Serviced
9. Guarantee
6. Checking your Smoke Alarm System

8
The Declaration of Conformity may be consulted at:
www.eielectronics.com/compliance
The Declaration of Conformity may be consulted at:
www.eielectronics.com/compliance
Aico Ltd
Maesbury Road
Oswestry
Shropshire SY10 8NR
Telephone: [phone]
www.aico.co.uk
Ei Electronics
Shannon Industrial Estate,
Shannon, V14 H020, Co. Clare, Ireland.
Telephone: [phone]
www.eielectronics.com
The crossed out wheelie bin symbol that is on your
product indicates that this product should not be disposed
of via the normal household waste stream. Proper
disposal will prevent possible harm to the environment or
to human health. When disposing of this product please
separate it from other waste streams to ensure that it can
be recycled in an environmentally sound manner. For
more details on collection and proper disposal, please
contact your local government office or the retailer where
you purchased this product.
Block E1
© Ei Electronics 2021P/N A15420 Rev5