New HyperSpike® Loudspeakers Expand Edwards’ Overall Mass Notification Solutions
Edwards, a global leader in emergency communication, mass notification and life safety system (ECS/MNS/LSS) solutions, introduces its new HyperSpike series high- and medium-power speaker arrays and portable loudspeaker systems. The products utilize patented HyperSpike technology to deliver some of the most powerful and intelligible audio signals available, including crystal-clear voice messages and alert tones, yet are among the smallest in physical size. The HyperSpike series is a key component in Edwards’ emergency preparedness solutions, and suitable for outdoor or indoor installation including on university and corporate campuses, military bases and industrial sites. Edwards is a part of UTC Building & Industrial Systems, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX).
When a serious incident or natural disaster occurs, an integrated, multi-platform mass notification system is an essential tool for all aspects of emergency preparedness: warning, response, mitigation and recovery. Edwards received the world’s first UL2572 Mass Notification System listing for its EST®3 and FireWorks® control systems in 2009. The HyperSpike series is designed to augment EST 3 and FireWorks and help colleges and universities comply with The Clery Act, the federal law that requires U.S. educational institutions to disclose information about crime on and around their campuses and to devise an emergency response, notification and testing policy.
“Building evacuation isn’t always the best solution when facing non-fire related events such as attacks, chemical spills or natural disasters. These situations require different management strategies. Edwards has the capability to meet virtually any notification need, and with the addition of the HyperSpike series speakers, emergency management or other authorities are able to clearly communicate,” said Jon Hughes, director of product management, Edwards. “The speakers’ installation options also save time and money.”
HyperSpike speakers are lightweight, so rooftops and mounting brackets do not require the degree of reinforcement needed by other acoustically comparable units. A HyperSpike speaker’s small footprint also allows for more choice in installation locations. HyperSpike speaker arrays integrate with the FireWorks Incident Management System, EST 3 and EST 3X control panels and other systems by Edwards to provide pre-recorded messages or real time instructions and information. They come in three models:
- Lightweight High Power Speaker Arrays (HPSA)
Electronic outdoor audible notification units function on AC-power with battery backup to provide continuous 24/7 emergency operation for the life of the battery – one of the longest running uptimes available. Loudspeakers are typically installed on a structure or pole, and are available in a number of configurations. Units can serve areas measured in radial miles. Models come in architecturally neutral beige or gray.
- Lightweight Medium Power Speaker Arrays (MPSA)
Electronic audible notification solutions that are ideal for smaller outdoor applications as well as large or very loud indoor areas. Loudspeakers are available in a number of configurations.
- Portable Loudspeaker System
Self-amplified, portable loudspeaker can be hand-held or mounted on a tripod, truck or other apparatus. It features Say-Then-Play (STP) microphone system that disperses clear audio without feedback or disorienting echoes.
The Hyperspike speakers are the first of several products that Edwards plans to introduce as part of its mass notification solutions in 2015.
“Edwards was the first to receive UL-listing for mass notification solutions, and we are investing heavily in product development and research to continue creating solutions to meet customers’ needs,” said Hughes.
For more information about the HyperSpike series, please visit http://www.edwardsfiresafety.com/Home/HighPoweredSpeakerArrays.
About Edwards
Founded by the inventor of the first electric bell in 1872, Edwards provides fire-safety and security solutions to more than 1 million customers around the world. Edwards is a part of UTC Building & Industrial Systems, a unit of United Technologies Corp., a leading provider to the aerospace and building systems industries worldwide. For more information, visit www.edwardsfiresafety.com.