Press information To download a text file of this release, a 250 pixel wide low-res image for web use or a 300dpi print quality image, go to www.parkfield.co.uk/kac New KAC "plug and play" fourth generation MCP moves call point technology to a new level with improved installation efficiency and increased user benefits Released at the press briefing 18 February 2004 The new MCP call point range from KAC boasts a host of innovative features and benefits. It is the fourth and most advanced generation of devices from KAC since the company invented the modern break glass manual call point in 1972. While fully backwards compatible with previous generations, it offers a significant reduction in installation time and full compliance with the latest standards. The new EN54-11 standard, which replaces the now withdrawn BS5839: Part 2: 1983, allows for both break glass and re-settable elements to be used in manual call points installed in fire alarm systems. In addition, BS5839 Part 1: 2002, recommends that manual call points conform to EN54-11. To offer the greatest flexibility in meeting the EN54-11 standard, the new MCP can be used as either a break glass or re-settable device without any additional components having to be fitted: switching from one operating technique to the other takes a matter of seconds. Reduced installation time has been achieved through a new patented 'plug and play' concept, which utilises a special terminal block to set the MCP range on a new level compared with every other manual call point on the market. Upon initial installation, cabling can be terminated into the MCP terminal block that provides a common interface for both intelligent and non-intelligent versions of the device. The terminal block is then fitted with a simple continuity link, enabling the wiring of the fire alarm system to be tested for open, short circuit and earth fault without the manual call point unit itself in place. The MCP does not need to be fitted until the final commissioning stage, reducing the likelihood of damage on a site where other services are still being installed. Upon final commissioning, the continuity link is removed from the 'plug and play' terminal block, which is then plugged directly into the back of the MCP. Simple but effective: no re-termination required and no time wasted. The call point is now electrically installed; the call point body is screwed to the back box, the break glass or re-settable element is placed in position and secured. Installation complete In addition to versions with the traditional dedicated normally open, normally closed and 470 Ohm resistor models, the new MCP range also includes a new combined clean contact and 470 Ohm resistor dual function product. Changing from one to the other is a simple matter of mating the push fit 'plug and play' terminal block with the correct terminal set, providing the installer with flexibility if the system requirements change at the last minute, potentially reducing stock holding requirements and enabling one product to be used in a variety of applications. By increasing the available PCB board space, the addressable version of the MCP can be supplied complete with built-in isolation if required, providing short circuit protection to the loop without having to fit additional discrete loop isolators. By integrating short circuit protection into the MCP, fewer separate loop components have to be installed, again helping to reduce installation time without jeopardising the integrity of the overall system. The soft curve styling of the new MCP will complement today's architectural design trends without compromising the essential high visibility needed and to protect the integrity of the overall system, the fire system will go into alarm if the lid of the MCP is removed without isolating the device from the panel. *** Ends: body copy 567 words *** Notes to Editors. For further information: John Hadley KAC 15 - 19 Trescott Road Trafford Park Smallwood Redditch B98 7AH Tel: + 44 1527 406655 Fax: + 44 1527 406699 jhadley@kac.co.uk www.kac.co.uk Agency contact: Nigel May Parkfield Communications Limited Parkfield House Damerham Hants SP6 3HQ Tel: + 44 (0)1725 518321 Fax: + 44 (0)1725 518378 nigel.may@parkfield.co.uk www.parkfield.co.uk KAC Alarms is the world's leading manufacturer of manual call points and associated products. The company is a member of the Honeywell Safety and Security Solutions business. Honeywell is a US$24-billion diversified technology and manufacturing leader, serving customers worldwide with aerospace products and services; control technologies for buildings, homes and industry; automotive products; speciality chemicals; fibers; plastics; and electronic and advanced materials. Honeywell employs approximately 115,000 people in 95 countries and is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol HON, as well as on the London, Chicago and Pacific stock exchanges. It is one of the 30 stocks that make up the Dow Jones Industrial Average and is also a component of the Standard & Poor's 500 Index. Additional information on the company is available on the Internet at www.honeywell.com. This release contains forward-looking statements as defined in Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, including statements about future business operations, financial performance and market conditions. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties inherent in business forecasts as further described in our filings under the Securities Exchange Act.