Hochiki HCA-2 User manual

HCA Series
Conventional Fire Alarm System
(HCA-2, HCA-2D, HCA-4, HCA-4D, HCA-8, HCA-8D)
Installation and Operation Manual
Hochiki America Corporation
7051 Village Drive, Suite 100
Buena Park, CA90621-2268
714.522.2246 Corporate Headquarters
800.845.6692 Technical Support
http://www.hochiki.com
Version 2.15
Created: 07/22/2013
Updated: 06/30/2017
HA-06-266

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Table of Contents
1. Introduction .................................................................................................................. 4
1.1 Product Features.................................................................................................................4
1.2 Electrical Specifications........................................................................................................5
1.3 Fire Alarm System Limitations ..............................................................................................6
1.4 Installation Precautions .......................................................................................................7
2. Controls and Indicators .................................................................................................. 9
2.1 Front Panel User Control Buttons .........................................................................................9
2.2 LED Indicators: ...................................................................................................................9
2.3 Local Piezoelectric (PZT) Sounder: .....................................................................................10
3. Control Panel Installation...............................................................................................11
3.1 Agency Requirements........................................................................................................11
3.2 Requirements for All Installations.......................................................................................11
3.3 Calculating Current Draw and Battery Size ..........................................................................12
3.3.1 Maximum Battery Standby Load ...........................................................................................13
3.3.2 Calculating Maximum Current Draw & Battery Backup Requirements.................................13
3.4 Mounting the Enclosure .....................................................................................................15
3.5 AC Power Connection ........................................................................................................15
3.6 Battery Installation............................................................................................................16
3.7 NAC Output Circuit Installation ..........................................................................................17
3.8 Zone Installation ...............................................................................................................18
3.9 Inner Door Label (Wiring Diagram) ....................................................................................19
3.10 Relay Outputs ...................................................................................................................20
3.11 DACT Phone Lines.............................................................................................................21
3.12 Remote Annunciator (Model HCA-RA).................................................................................22
3.12.1 HCA-RA Installation..........................................................................................................22
3.12.2 HCA-RA Specifications.....................................................................................................23
3.13 Diagnostic LEDs ................................................................................................................24
4. Control Panel Operations ...............................................................................................25
4.1 LCD Display Screens..........................................................................................................25
4.1.1 Initial Display Screen after System Initialization and Panel Revision ...................................25
4.1.2 System Normal Status Screen ..............................................................................................26
4.1.3 Off Normal System Status Screens and Sounds ..................................................................26
4.1.4 Zone Alarm and/or Trouble Screens.....................................................................................26
4.1.5 System TROUBLE Screens ..................................................................................................26
4.1.6 NAC Output Trouble Screens................................................................................................27
4.1.7 Multiple Trouble Screens.......................................................................................................27
4.1.8 Active Alarms and Trouble Screens......................................................................................27
4.2 Operation Keys .................................................................................................................28
4.2.1 System Reset........................................................................................................................28
4.2.2 System Silence......................................................................................................................28
4.2.3 System Acknowledge............................................................................................................28
4.3 Login Screen.....................................................................................................................28
4.3.1 Default Access Codes...........................................................................................................28
4.4 User Top Level Menu Options ............................................................................................28
4.5 Installer Top Level Menu Options .......................................................................................29
4.6 Fire Drill ...........................................................................................................................30
4.7 Date/Time Setup...............................................................................................................30
4.8 Walk Test .........................................................................................................................31
4.9 Event History ....................................................................................................................31
4.9.1 Viewing Event History ...........................................................................................................31
4.9.2 Clearing Event History...........................................................................................................32
4.10 Disabling Circuits ..............................................................................................................32

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4.10.1 Disabling or Enabling Zones.............................................................................................32
4.10.2 Disabling or Enabling Outputs ..........................................................................................33
4.11 Manual DACT Test ............................................................................................................33
4.12 Operating the Remote Annunciator ....................................................................................33
5. Programming................................................................................................................34
5.1 Editing User and Installer Access Codes..............................................................................34
5.2 Zone Programming Options ...............................................................................................34
5.2.1 Zone Edit...............................................................................................................................34
5.2.1.1 Zone Type ………………………………………………………………………………………… 35
5.2.1.2 Silenceable Zone ………………………………………………………………………………… 35
5.2.1.3 Zone Response …………………………………………………………………………………… 35
5.2.1.4 Zone NAC Activation …………………………………………………………………………….. 35
5.2.1.5 Zone Relay Activation …………………………………………………………………………… 35
5.2.2 Shorted Zone Mode...............................................................................................................36
5.3 Notification Appliance Circuits (NAC) and Relay Programming ..............................................36
5.3.1 Reserved...............................................................................................................................36
5.3.2 NAC Output circuits...............................................................................................................36
5.3.3 Relay Silencing Programming...............................................................................................38
5.3.4 Cadence Pattern Programming.............................................................................................38
5.4 Releasing Programming Options ........................................................................................39
5.4.1 Agent Release 1....................................................................................................................39
5.4.2 Agent Release 2....................................................................................................................42
5.4.3 Water Releasing....................................................................................................................44
5.4.4 How to Install the Disconnect Switch on the Releasing Circuit.............................................47
5.5 Remote Annunciator..........................................................................................................49
5.6 DACT Setup......................................................................................................................49
5.6.1 Enable/Disable the DACT .....................................................................................................49
5.6.2 Auto Test Time of Day...........................................................................................................49
5.6.3 Low AC Reporting Delay.......................................................................................................50
5.6.4 Edit Accounts.........................................................................................................................50
5.6.5 Edit Phone Lines ...................................................................................................................53
5.7 Panel Factory Default Setup...............................................................................................54
5.7.1 Factory Default Settings........................................................................................................54
6. DACT Reporting Codes and Compatible Receivers............................................................55
6.1 DACT Reporting Codes for SIA and Contact ID....................................................................55
7. Compatible Devices for the HCA Series Panel ..................................................................56
7.1 Compatible Conventional Initiating Devices.........................................................................56
7.2 Compatible Releasing Devices............................................................................................56
7.3 Compatible Heat Detector Cable ........................................................................................57
7.4 Compatible Notification Appliances .....................................................................................57
8. Warranty......................................................................................................................58

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1. Introduction
The HCA series fire alarm control panels provide all of the sophisticated features required of a leading edge
conventional fire alarm system along with the simple operation and efficient installation methods demanded
by both installers and building users.
The panel can be flush or surface mounted and the generously sized metal back box allows ample space
for rear or top cable entries.
A comprehensive range of auxiliary devices is available to operate with the HCA series control panels
including optical, ionization, photoelectric, photoelectric-thermal and heat detectors.
Each of the HCA series system components has been specifically designed to operate as part of the HCA
series system. This provides assurance that the control panel, smoke detectors, interface devices and the
ancillary components are all fully compatible with one another and that the full range of system functionality
is supported by each device.
1.1 Product Features
The HCA panels have the following key features:
2, 4, or 8 conventional input zones (Models HCA-2, HCA2-D, HCA-4, HCA-4D, HCA-8, HCA-8D).
Built-in Digital Alarm Communicator Transmitter (DACT) included with models HCA-2D, HCA-4D,
HCA-8D.
4 notification appliance circuits (NAC) with built-in synchronization for ANSI 3.41 and Gentex.
All 6 models come with a 6.5 amp power supply.
Optional Remote Annunciator available –Model HCA-RA
Agent and Water Releasing Support.
Dedicated alarm and trouble relays.
3 programmable general purpose relays in addition to alarm and trouble.
Built-in two line 32 character LCD display provides large easy to read text.
15 key keypad for panel operations and programming.
Event History Buffer (255 events) with Date/Time stamp. Events can be displayed on LCD.
Real time clock.
Built-in walk test.
Housed in a 14.6”W x 15.6”H x 4.53”D metal enclosure.
Enclosure supports two 12V, 7Ah backup batteries.

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1.2 Electrical Specifications
Table 1 - Electrical Specifications
Primary AC
120VAC 50/60 Hz or 240VAC 50/60 Hz
Power supply rating
6.5 Amps @ 24VDC (All Models)
Maximum Battery Charging Current
0.98 Amps @ 22VDC
Maximum Battery Charger Capacity
18 Ah battery (Two 7 Ah batteries fit inside cabinet)
Initiating Device Circuits HCA-2
Alarm Zone 1 & 2
Initiating Device Circuits HCA-4
Alarm Zone 1, 2, 3, & 4
Initiating Device Circuits HCA-8
Alarm Zone 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, & 8
Initiating Wiring Style
Class B (Style B and C)
Normal Initiating Operating Voltage
23VDC, Maximum 25.5VDC, regulated
Short Circuit Initiating Current (per zone)
48mA Maximum
Maximum Initiating Resistance (per zone)
10 ohms
Initiating End-of-Line Resistor
4.7K ohms 1/2W 5%, 0400-01820
Standby Detector Current (per zone)
4mA maximum
Maximum Detector Count (per zone)
20 detectors
Initiating Cabling Type
18AWG Twisted Shielded pair (14 –18 AWG)
Detector Base Impedance
430 ohms
Notification Appliance Circuits
4 NACs, Special Application
Maximum NAC Current Rating
2.5 Amp maximum per circuit
Total NAC Signaling Current
6.2 Amps total with 6.5 Amp supply
NAC Wiring Style
Class B (Style Y)
NAC Operating Voltage
24VDC Nominal, 27VDC Maximum
NAC Line Impedance Maximum
1.5 volt line drop maximum
NAC End-of-line Resistor
10.0K ohms 1/2W 5%, 0400-01046 (0400-02590 for releasing application)
NAC Sync Protocols
Continuous On, Gentex, ANSI 3.41 Temporal, March
Trouble Relay rating
3A & 30VDC, 1.0pf
Alarm Relay rating
3A & 30VDC, 1.0pf
Relay 1 (programmable)
3A & 30VDC, 1.0pf
Relay 2 (programmable)
3A & 30VDC, 1.0pf
Relay 3 (programmable)
3A & 30VDC, 1.0pf

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1.3 Fire Alarm System Limitations
An automatic fire alarm system –in general is made up of smoke detectors, heat detectors, manual pull
stations, call points, audible warning devices, and fire alarm control panels with remote notification
capability, which can supply early warning of a developing fire. Such a system, on the other hand, is unable
to assure protection against property damage or loss of life resulting from a fire.
The manufacturer recommends that smoke and /or heat detectors must be positioned throughout a
protected premise following the recommendations of the current edition of the National Fire Protection
Association Standard 72 (NFPA 72), manufacturer’s recommendations contained in the Guide for proper
Use of System Smoke Detectors, which is made available at no charge to all installing dealers. A study by
the Federal Emergency Management Agency (an agency of the United States government) indicated that
smoke detectors may not go off in as many as 35% of all fires. A fire alarm system may not provide timely
or sufficient notice, or might not function, for a diversity of reasons:
Smoke detectors may not sense fire where smoke cannot reach the detectors such as in chimneys, in or
behind walls, on roofs, or on the other side of closed doors. Smoke detectors also may not sense a fire on
another level or floor of a building. A second-floor detector, for example, may not sense a first-floor or
basement fire.
Particles or combustion or “smoke” from a developing fire may not reach the sensing chambers of
smoke detectors because:
Barriers such as closed or partially closed doors, walls, or chimneys may inhibit particle or smoke
flow.
Smoke particles may become “cold,” stratify, and not reach the ceiling or upper walls where
detectors are located.
Smoke particles may be blown away from detectors by air outlets.
Smoke particles may be drawn into air returns before reaching the detector.
The amount of “smoke” present may be insufficient to alarm the smoke detectors. Smoke detectors are
designed to alarm at various levels of smoke density. If such density levels are not created by a developing
fire at the location of detectors, the detectors will not go into alarm. Smoke detectors, even when working
properly, have sensing limitations. Detectors that have photo electronic sensing chambers tend to detect
smoldering fires better than flaming fires, which have little visible smoke. Detectors that have ionizing-type
sensing chambers tend to detect fast-flaming fires better than smoldering fires. Because fires develop in
different ways and are often unpredictable in their growth, both types of detectors are necessarily best and
a given type of detector may not provide adequate warning of a fire. A smoke detector cannot be expected
to provide adequate warning of fires caused by arson, children playing with matches (especially in
bedrooms), smoking in bed, and violent explosions (caused by escaping gas, improper storage of
flammable materials, etc.). Heat detectors do not sense particles or combustion and alarm only when heat
on their sensors increases at a preset rate or reaches a predetermined level. Rate-of-rise heat detectors
may be subject to reduced sensitivity overtime. For this reason, the rate-of-rise feature of each detector
should be tested at least once per year by a qualified fire protection expert. Heat detectors are designed to
protect property, not life.
IMPORTANT! Smoke detectors must be installed in the same room as the control panel and in rooms used
by the system for the connection of alarm transmission wiring, communications, signaling, and/or power. If
detectors are not located near the control panel, a developing fire may damage the alarm system, crippling
its ability to report a fire.

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Audible warning devices such as bells may not alert people if these devices are located on the other side
of closed or partly open doors or are located on another floor of a building. Any warning device may fail to
alert people with a disability or those who have recently consumed drugs, alcohol or medication. Please
note that:
Strobes can, under certain circumstances, cause seizures in people with conditions such as
epilepsy.
Studies have shown that certain people, even when they hear a fire alarm signal, do not respond or
comprehend the meaning of the signal. It is the property owner’s responsibility to conduct fire drills and
other training exercise to make people aware of fire alarm signals and instruct them on the proper reaction
to alarm signals.
In rare instances, the sounding of a warning device can cause temporary or permanent hearing loss.
A fire alarm system will not operate without any electrical power. If AC power fails, the system will operate
from standby batteries only for a specified time and only if the batteries have been properly maintained and
replaced regularly.
Equipment used in the system may not be technically compatible with the control. It is essential to use
only equipment listed for service with your control panel.
Telephone lines needed to transmit alarm signals from a premise to a central monitoring station may be
out of service or temporarily disabled. For added protection against telephone line failure, backup radio
transmission systems are recommended.
The most common cause of fire alarm malfunction is insufficient maintenance. To keep the entire fire
alarm system in excellent working order, on-going maintenance as required by the manufacturer’s
recommendations, UL and NFPA 72 shall be followed. Environments with large amounts of dust, dirt or
high air velocityrequire more frequent maintenance. A maintenance agreement should be arranged through
the local manufacturer’s representative. Maintenance should be scheduled monthly or as required by
National and/or local fire codes and should be performed by authorized professional fire alarm installers
only. Adequate written records of all inspection should be kept.
1.4 Installation Precautions
WARNING –Several different sources of power can be connected to the fire alarm control panel.
Disconnect all sources of power before servicing the control unit. Associated equipment may be damaged
by removing and/or inserting cards, modules or interconnecting cables while the unit is energized.
Do not attempt to install, service, or operate this unit until this manual is read and understood fully.
CAUTION –System Reacceptance Testing Requirements. To ensure proper system operation, this product
must be tested in accordance with NFPA 72 after any programming operation or change in site specific
software. Re-acceptance testing is required after any change, addition or deletion of system components,
or after any modification, repair or adjustment to system hardware or wiring. All components, circuits,
system operations, or software functions known to be affected by a change must be 100% tested. In
addition, to ensure that other operations are not inadvertently affected, at least 10% of initiating devices
that are not directly affected by the change, up to a maximum of 50 devices, must also be tested and proper
system operation verified.
This system meets NFPA requirements for indoor dry operation at 0-49° C/32-120° F and at a relative
humidity up to 93 ±2%RH (non-condensing) at 32 ±2° C/90 ±3° F. However, the useful life of the system's
standby batteries and the electronic components may be adversely affected by extreme temperature ranges
and humidity. Therefore, it is recommended that this system and all peripherals be installed in an
environment with a nominal room temperature of 15-27°C/60-80° F.

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Verify that wire sizes are adequate for all initiating and indicating device loops. Refer to the manual
specifications section for maximum allowable I.R. drop from the specified device voltage.
Like all solid state electronic devices, this system may operate erratically or can be damaged when
subjected to lightning-induced transients. Although no system is completely immune from lightning
transients and interferences, proper grounding will reduce susceptibility. Overhead or outside aerial wiring
is not recommended, due to an increased susceptibility to nearby lightning strikes. Consult with the
Technical Services Department if any problems are anticipated or encountered.
Disconnect AC power and batteries prior to removing or inserting circuit boards. Failure to do so can
damage circuits.
Make all cable entries from the sides or top of the enclosure using the knockouts provided. Route internal
wiring around the outer edges of the enclosure, and verify that it will not interfere with battery, transformer,
or printed circuit board locations and connections.
Do not tighten screw terminals more than 9 in-lbs. Over-tightening may damage threads, resulting in
reduced terminal contact pressure and difficulty with screw terminal removal.
This system contains static-sensitive components. Always ground yourself with a proper wrist strap before
handling any circuits so that static charges are removed from the body. Use static-suppressive packaging
to protect electronic assemblies removed from the unit.
Follow the instructions in the installation, operating, and programming manuals. These instructions
must be followed to avoid damage to the control panel and associated equipment. FACP operation
and reliability depend upon proper installation by authorized personnel.

HCA Series Installation Manual Page 9 of 58 V2.15
2. Controls and Indicators
2.1 Front Panel User Control Buttons
Acknowledge
This function, abbreviated "Ack" on the keypad, is used to acknowledge an off normal condition such as an
alarm or trouble condition. The acknowledge function tells the panel that building personnel or emergency
responders are aware of the alarm, trouble, or supervisory condition. Acknowledging the alarm or trouble
condition also silences the panel's sounder (PZT).
Alarm Silence
This function, abbreviated "Silence" on the keypad, is also known as "audible silence". Depending on the
configuration of the alarm system, this function will either silence the system's notification appliances
completely, or will silence only the audible alarm, with strobe lights continuing to flash. Audible silence
allows for easier communication amongst emergency responders while responding to an alarm while still
leaving the visual appliances on to indicate there is still an active alarm.
Reset
This function will reset the panel after an alarm condition. All initiating devices are reset, and the panel is
cleared of any alarm conditions. If an initiating device is still in alarm after the system is reset, such as a
smoke detector continuing to sense smoke, or a manual pull station still in an activated position, another
alarm will be initiated.
2.2 LED Indicators:
AC Power Green LED
When this indicator is lit, power is being provided to the system from the building's electrical system and
not from the backup battery. When the AC power condition is low or completely gone, the trouble indicator
comes on and the AC power indicator goes off. If the AC power indicator is lit without any other indicators
also lit, then the system is in a normal standby condition. If no LEDs are lit, there is no power source feeding
the panel.
Alarm Red LED
This Indicator is lit when an alarm condition exists in the system, initiated by smoke detectors, heat
detectors, sprinkler flow switches, manual pull stations, manual call points, or other initiating devices. Along
with the indicator on the panel, notification appliances such as horns and strobes are also activated,
signaling a need to evacuate the building occupants. In an alarm condition, the fire alarm control panel
indicates where the alarm originated. The alarm panel can be reset once the device which initiated the
alarm is reset, such as returning the handle of a manual pull station to its normal position.
Trouble Yellow LED
When on steady or flashing, it means that a trouble condition exists on the panel. Trouble conditions are
often activated by a contaminated smoke detector or an electrical problem within the system. Trouble
conditions are also activated by a zone being disabled (disconnected from the system), low power on the
backup battery, disabled notification appliance circuits, earth ground faults, shorted circuits or open circuits.
The alarm panel's sounder will activate if a trouble condition exists. In a trouble condition, the panel displays
the zone or devices causing the trouble condition. The trouble indicator goes out automatically when the
situation causing the trouble condition is rectified or restores to normal.
Silence Yellow LED
The silence signal indicates that a trouble, supervisory, and/or alarm condition has been silenced by
activating the silence key.

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Supervisory Yellow LED
The supervisory signal indicates that a portion of the building's fire protection system has been disabled
(such as a fire sprinkler control valve being closed and, consequentially, a sprinkler tamper switch being
activated), or, less frequently, that a lower priority initiating device has been triggered (such as a duct smoke
detector). The "Supervisory" indicator requires a "Reset" to clear.
2.3 Local Piezoelectric (PZT) Sounder:
The piezoelectric sounder provides separate and distinct sounds for alarm, trouble, and supervisory
conditions. The PZT sounds are as follows:
Alarm –On for 1.25 seconds, Off for 0.25 seconds, repeat.
Supervisory –On for 0.75 seconds, Off for 0.75 seconds, repeat.
Trouble –On for 0.4 seconds, Off for 0.4 seconds, repeat.

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3. Control Panel Installation
Important, please read before proceeding!
The equipment described in this manual is listed by ETL TESTING LABORATORIES for use in fire alarm
signaling systems, only when installed in accordance with this manual and the latest National Fire
Protection Association Standards NFPA 72; the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70); the Life Safety Code
(NFPA 101); and/or the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ). It is possible to apply system components
incorrectly or arrange system components and installation wiring so that required life safety functions are
NOT performed. As a result, lives may be lost.
To minimize this possibility:
DO NOT deviate from any installation instructions contained in this manual.
DO NOT assume any installation details not shown in this manual.
DO NOT alter any mechanical or electrical features of the equipment supplied
BE FAMILIAR with the building code, fire prevention code, and/or requirements of the Authority Having
Jurisdiction (AHJ) in the locale of the installation.
!Caution!
Under normal and fault conditions, AC line voltages may be present on any terminal. Touching any
component could be hazardous and result in loss of life. A short circuit can result in arcing that could cause
molten metal injuries to testing personal. To minimize this possibility, only qualified electrical technicians
familiar with electrical hazards should perform these checkout procedures. Safety glasses should be worn
by such personnel, and instruments used for voltage measurement should be designed for the purpose and
should be in good mechanical and working order.
If there is application or installation information that is not clear or not covered in this manual, please contact
us at: Hochiki America Corp. Technical Support, 1-800-845-6692 or by email:
[e-mail]
3.1 Agency Requirements
The PANEL is listed by ETL TESTING LABORATORIES to UL 864 9th edition as a FACP control unit for
use in NFPA 72 systems.
3.2 Requirements for All Installations
General requirements are described in this section. When installing an individual device, refer to the
specific section of the manual for additional requirements.
All field wiring must be installed in accordance with NFPA 70 National Electric Code.
Use UL listed smoke detectors and notification appliances compatible with the PANEL from those
specified in Section 7 of this manual.
A full system checkout must be performed every time the panel is programmed.
The HCA series of conventional fire alarm control panels are designed in accordance UL864 9th Edition,
Control Units and Accessories for Fire Alarm Systems.

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3.3 Federal Communication Commission (FCC)
This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions:
(1) This device may not cause harmful interferences, and (2) this device must accept any interference
received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
This equipment complies with Part 68 of the FCC rules and the requirements adopted by the ACTA. On
the inside of this equipment is a label that contains, among other information, a product identifier in the
format US:HBPAL01BHCA-FACP. If requested, this number must be provided to the telephone company.
This equipment is designed to be connected to the telephone network or premises wiring using
compatible modular jacks that are Part 68 compliant. See Installation Instructions for details.
If this equipment causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company will notify you in
advance that temporary discontinuance of service may be required. If advance notice isn't practical, the
telephone company will notify the customer as soon as possible. Also, you will be advised of your right to
file a complaint with the FCC if you believe it is necessary.
The telephone company may make changes to its facilities, equipment, operations or procedures that
could affect the operation of the equipment. If this happens the telephone company will provide advance
notice so you can make the necessary modifications to maintain uninterrupted service.
If trouble is experienced with this equipment please contact Hochiki America Corporation in the
U.S.A. at [phone] for repair or warranty information. If the equipment is causing harm to the
telephone network, the telephone company may request that you disconnect the equipment until the
problem is resolved.
The HCA’s dialer must not be used on party lines.
Caution –To ensure proper operation, this equipment must be installed according to the installation
instructions. To verify that the equipment is operating properly and can successfully report an alarm, this
equipment must be tested immediately after installation, and periodically thereafter, according to the
testing instruction found in the installation manual.
Caution –In order for “alarm dialing equipment” to be able to seize the phone line to report an alarm or
other event when other customer equipment (telephone, answering machine, computer modem etc.)
connected to the same phone line is in use, “alarm dialing equipment” must be connected to a properly
installed RJ31X jack. The RJ31X jack must be connected in series with, and ahead of, all other
equipment attached to the same phone line. Series installation of an RJ31X jack is depicted in the figure
below. If you have any questions concerning these instructions, you should consult your telephone
company or a qualified installer about installing the necessary jack and alarm dialing equipment for you.

HCA Series Installation Manual Page 13 of 58 V2.15
3.4 Calculating Current Draw and Battery Size
Use this section to determine the current draw and standby battery needs for your installation.
3.4.1 Maximum Battery Standby Load
The nominal battery capacity versus system standby current is shown in table 3.3.1 for typical battery sizes.
Make sure that the standby battery calculation of table 3.3.2 is less than the number of table 3.3.1 for the
battery chosen and the standby hours needed.
Table 3.3.1
Battery Size
Maximum standby load with 5 minutes
alarm, 24 hour standby
Maximum standby load with 5
minutes alarm, 60 hour standby
7AH
269mA
*
12AH
477mA
191mA
18AH
727mA
291mA
* 7AH size is not capable of 60 hour standby.
3.4.2 Calculating Maximum Current Draw & Battery Backup Requirements
Use table 3.3.2 to assist you in determining the worst case battery backup amp-hour requirements for the
particular installation.
1) The known standby and alarm current draws for the panel are already filled in for table 3.3.2. Note
that all EOL resistor currents for the zones and notification appliance circuits (NACs) are already
accounted for in the main panel current draw numbers and should not be included in the zone or
NAC current calculations.
2) Add in the total smoke detector standby current draw for each zone that is used and all standby
accessory loads on NACs configured as auxiliary power constant or auxiliary power resettable.
Note that auxiliary power door holder current is not included for battery standby because it is
powered down during battery backup. Put the appropriate current draw per device in the standby
and alarm current boxes and record the total number of devices per zone or circuit in the “number
of devices” column.
3) Add in all notification appliance alarm current draws for each NAC configured as a notification
appliance circuit.
4) Add up the total standby and alarm current draw values and record the totals in the appropriate
boxes of table 3.3.2.
5) Multiply the standby and alarm currents with the standby and alarm hours to determine the total
amp-hours needed for both standby and alarm. Add up the standby and alarm amp-hour results
to get the total battery backup amp-hours required. Select a battery size that is at least 120% of
the total amp-hours required to achieve a 20% safety margin for the battery backup.
6) Make sure the total standby and alarm current you calculated (including the current for the panel
itself) does not exceed the 6.5 amps power supply rating. Also make sure you have not exceeded
the maximum current rating on any of the NACs.

HCA Series Installation Manual Page 14 of 58 V2.15
Table 3.3.2 Worst Case Battery Current Calculations
Devices
Number of Devices
Current per device
Standby
Current
Alarm
Current
Multiply This Column
By This Column
To Get Standby/Alarm
Currents
Main Panel
HCA Panel
1
Standby: 0.160A
0.160A
Alarm: 0.290A
0.290A
Panel Relays
Alarm relay
1
Standby: 0.0A
0.0A
Alarm: 0.025A
0.025A
Trouble relay
1 (trouble relay OFF
due to loss of AC)
Standby: 0.0A
0.0A
Alarm: 0.0A
0.0A
Relay 1
Standby: 0.0A
0.0A
Alarm: 0.025A
Relay 2
Standby: 0.0A
0.0A
Alarm: 0.025A
Relay 3
Standby: 0.0A
0.0A
Alarm: 0.025A
Remote Annunciator
Number of
Remote
Annunciators
(maximum 1)
Standby: 0.012A
Max Alarm: 0.030A
Zones
Number of Zone 1
Detectors
Standby:
Max Alarm: 0.040A
Number of Zone 2
Detectors
Standby:
Max Alarm: 0.040A
Number of Zone 3
Detectors
Standby:
Max Alarm: 0.040A
Number of Zone 4
Detectors
Standby:
Max Alarm: 0.040A
Number of Zone 5
Detectors
Standby:
Max Alarm: 0.040A
Number of Zone 6
Detectors
Standby:
Max Alarm: 0.040A
Number of Zone 7
Detectors
Standby:
Max Alarm: 0.040A
Number of Zone 8
Detectors
Standby:
Max Alarm: 0.040A
Notification Appliances or Auxiliary Power Devices
Output 1
Standby:
Alarm:
Output 2
Standby:
Alarm:
Output 3
Standby:
Alarm:
Output 4
Standby:
Alarm:
Total Worst Case Standby Current
A
Total Worst Case Alarm Current
A
Number of Standby hours required (typically 24 hours)
H
Number of Alarm hours required (5 minutes is 0.0833 hours)
H
Number of Standby amp-hours (standby amps X standby hours)
AH
Number of Alarm amp-hours (alarm amps X alarm hours)
AH
Total battery amp hours required (add standby and alarm AHs)
AH

HCA Series Installation Manual Page 15 of 58 V2.15
3.5 Mounting the Enclosure
Install the enclosure as follows:
1. Carefully unpack the system components and inspect for any damage due to shipping.
2. Mount the enclosure in a clean, dry, vibration-free area where extreme temperatures are not
encountered. The location should be readily accessible with sufficient room for easy installation
and maintenance.
3. Mount the cabinet by using the two mounting holes located in the upper back of the cabinet. After
the panel has been properly located using the mounting holes, the panel can be secured.
4. Complete all conduit connections to the cabinet. Use the knockouts provided in the top and the
sides.
Wire must NOT enter the bottom of the cabinet, since this area is intended for batteries only.
3.6 AC Power Connection
WARNING!
To reduce the risk of electrical shock, make sure that all power has been turned off or
disconnected prior to attempting to connect AC power to the Power Supply.
Apply the AC Power BEFORE connecting the batteries to the Panel!
Provide the Fire Alarm Control Panel with a dedicated AC Circuit rated 15 Amps or higher. Refer to figure
3.5 for the AC power wiring diagram.
1. Route the power cable into the cabinet via a left side knock out hole.
2. Attach the AC source live (hot) wire from the source to the terminal labeled “L”.
3. Attach the AC source neutral wire from the source to the terminal labeled “N” terminal.
4. Attach the AC ground wire from the source to the terminal labeled
P1
Battery
Fault
GND wire
NEUTRAL
LIVE
Normal
+ -
GND
Factory fitted
The GND cable must
be connected to this
point
+ -
EARTH GND
Figure 3.5 - AC Power Wiring Connection

HCA Series Installation Manual Page 16 of 58 V2.15
3.7 Battery Installation
The batteries are placed at the bottom of the enclosure. The HCA panel is fully protected if the batteries
are connected in the wrong polarity. The Amber battery fault LED on the main circuit board will show
steady in such a condition. When the green battery LED is on steady it shows that the battery condition
and connections are normal. See Figure 3.6 below.
P1
Battery
Fault
Normal
12V Battery 12V Battery
Red Black
Figure 3.6 - Battery Connection to the HCA Control Panel
Installation of optional battery cabinet
An external battery
cabinet must be used for
batteries larger than 7Ah.

HCA Series Installation Manual Page 17 of 58 V2.15
3.8 Notification Appliance Circuit (NAC) Wiring
The HCA series control panel has 4 built-in NACs which can be individually configured as either class B
(style Y) supervised notification appliance circuits (NACs), auxiliary power 24VDC circuits, auxiliary power
24V resettable circuits or auxiliary power 24V door holder circuits.
Figure 3.7 shows NAC 1 wired as a class B NAC. Observe the polarity of the wiring and the placement of
the 10kend of line (EOL) resistor located at the very end of the class B wiring. To wire a NAC as an
auxiliary power circuit, observe the same polarity as shown in figure 3.7. Note that it is not a requirement
to include the EOL resistor.

-
+
+
+
-
-
Supervised
Power Limited
Class B Supervised
Notification Appliance Circuit
10kΩ EOL Resistor
part number 0400-01046
1 2 3 4
NAC Connections
Figure 3.7- Supervised Notification Appliance Wiring

HCA Series Installation Manual Page 18 of 58 V2.15
3.9 Zone Installation
The HCA series panel has either 2, 4 or 8 class B (style B or C) conventional input zones depending on the
HCA model chosen. The mode programming option determines if the zone logic interprets short circuits as
an alarm (style B) or a trouble condition (style C). Wire the smoke detector positive terminals to the HCA
terminal labeled “+” and the negative smoke detector terminals to the HCA terminal labeled “-“ as shown in
figure 3.8 which shows the HCA-8 panel. Each active zone requires a 4.7kend of line (EOL) resistor at
the very end of the zone as shown in figure 3.8.
34
12
56
+Z3 - +Z4- +Z5- +Z6- +Z7- +Z8-
+Z1- +Z2
-
Class B, Style B/C Wiring
EOL part number
0400-01820
34
12
56
34
12
56
Figure 3.8 Zone Installation

3.10 Inner Door Label (Wiring Diagram)
13
2
ALARM
TROUBLE
SILENCE
SUPERVISORY
NONCC NONCCNONCCNONCCNONCC
+Z1- +Z2- +Z3- +Z4- +Z5- +Z6- +Z7- +Z8-
+ - + - + - + -
L N
(AC)
FAULT
NORMAL
Battery
Connectors
Outputs
Battery Fault
Battery Normal
Neutral
Earth
Line +-
+
+
-
-
Supervised
Power Limited
AC IN
Install in accordance
NFPA 72.
The HCA Series Panel
is suitable as:
Local signaling unit
Conforms to UL864
9th Edition
All Circuits inherently
power limited except
AC / battery
Compatibility identifier number: 0409007
Software release: Version 2.XX
Indoor use only (dry)
Commercial –protected-premises control unit
HOCHIKI AMERICA
CORPORATION
This Product shall be installed
in accordance with HCA Series
Installation Manual: HA-06-266
Version # 2.XX
Issued: mm/dd/yyyy
HCA SERIES WIRING DIAGRAM
P/N 1700-05660 Doc. HA-03-343 Rev. V2.XX DATE mm/dd/yyyy
4 Class B Outputs:
Special Application
NAC, 2.5 amps max.
Regulated Auxiliary
Power, 1.0 amps max.
10 KΩ resistor
part number
0400-01046
INPUT:
100-120VAC 3.0 A
200-240VAC 2.0 A
50/60Hz
OUTPUT:
24VDC 6.5A
Programmable Relays
3 amps @ 30VDC
(non supervised)
Trouble
Relay
Alarm
Relay 3 amps @ 30VDC
(non supervised)
4.7KΩ EOL
RESISTOR
Part number
0400-01820
Refer to installation manual
HA-06-266 section 6.1
Output circuit
functions for
Agent and Water
Releasing
applications
+ 485 –GND +24V -
RS485 Remote
Annunciator
Port
Phone Line 2
Phone Line 1
Optional Built-In DACT
Phone Line Connections
on HCA-2D, HCA-4D and
HCA-8D models
EOL Module
0400-02590
Releasing
Solenoid
Pre-Release
Alarm NAC
Release Alarm
NAC
Releasing NAC
General Alarm
NAC
Output Circuits 1-4
1
2
Red Black
AL
TROUBLE
AC
NAC4NAC3
NAC2
NAC1
-V +V
NAC4NAC3
NAC2
NAC1

3.11 Relay Outputs
Each HCA series panel has 5, form C relays. 2 of the relays are dedicated to common alarm and common
trouble functions. The other 3 relays can be configured as Alarm or Supervisory functions. All 5 relay
outputs (Alarm, Trouble, and the programmable relays) carry the same voltage and current ratings. The
relays are rated 3 amps at 30VDC, power factor 0.4 - 1.0.
NO NC C
NO NC CNO NC C
RELAY 1ALARM RELAY 3TROUBLE
NO NC C
NO NC C
RELAY 2
Dry Contact outputs
must be connected
to a power limited
source.
Normally Closed
Normally Open
COMMON ALARM RELAY
COMMON TROUBLE RELAY
PROGRAMMABLE RELAY 1
PROGRAMMABLE RELAY 2
PROGRAMMABLE RELAY 3
ALARM
TROUBLE
P G RELAY
P G RELAY
P G RELAY
Figure 3.10- HCA Relay Outputs