The Honeywell MCS-PTIR-IV Multi-Criteria Fire Detector provides intelligent addressable fire detection by combining multiple sensing technologies in one device. It monitors smoke, heat, and infrared light patterns to identify potential fire conditions. In addition, advanced algorithms analyze information from the sensors to improve fire detection while reducing nuisance alarms.
Multi-Criteria Fire Detection
The Honeywell MCS-PTIR-IV combines photoelectric, thermal, and infrared sensing technologies. Each technology monitors a different characteristic of a developing fire. Therefore, the detector can evaluate several conditions before determining an alarm response.
The photoelectric sensor detects airborne particles associated with smoke. Meanwhile, the thermal sensor monitors temperature and rate-of-rise conditions. Infrared sensors monitor light patterns in the surrounding environment.
Together, these sensing technologies provide a more complete view of developing fire conditions.
135°F Thermal Detection
The thermal sensing element provides a fixed-temperature threshold of approximately 135°F (57°C). It also monitors the rate of temperature rise.
Therefore, the detector can recognize both smoke-related conditions and significant changes in temperature. This multi-criteria approach provides additional information to the compatible fire alarm control system.
Nuisance Alarm Resistance
Advanced algorithms analyze information from the detector’s sensing elements. As a result, the device can provide increased resistance to nuisance particulates compared with basic single-sensing detectors.
For example, Honeywell specifically notes improved rejection of certain nuisance sources such as theatrical smoke. This feature can make the detector useful in environments where unwanted alarm sources may affect traditional detectors.
Key Features
- Intelligent addressable multi-criteria fire detector
- Photoelectric smoke sensing
- Thermal heat sensing
- Infrared sensing technology
- 135°F fixed-temperature threshold
- Rate-of-rise heat detection
- Advanced nuisance alarm rejection
- Velociti communication
- CLIP communication on the ivory version
- Analog communications
- Rotary address switches
- Dual LEDs for 360-degree visibility
- Low standby current
- Modern low-profile design
- Multiple compatible mounting bases
- UL 268 7th Edition Listed
- UL 521 Listed
- FM Approved
- Designed for professional fire alarm systems
Electrical Specifications
The Honeywell MCS-PTIR-IV operates from 15 to 32 VDC. Its average standby current is approximately 200µA at 24 VDC when communicating every five seconds with the green LED blink enabled.
Alarm current is approximately 2mA at 24 VDC with the red LED illuminated. Maximum current reaches approximately 4.5mA at 24 VDC with the amber LED illuminated.
Therefore, the detector provides multi-criteria sensing while maintaining relatively low SLC current requirements.
Environmental Specifications
The detector operates from 32°F to 100°F (0°C to 38°C). It supports relative humidity levels from 15% to 90% in non-condensing conditions.
The listed air velocity range extends from 0 to 300 feet per minute. Therefore, technicians should confirm environmental conditions before installing the detector.
Dimensions and Mounting
When installed with a B300-6 mounting base, the detector measures approximately 6.2 inches in diameter and 2.0 inches high.
When installed with a B501 base, the overall diameter is approximately 4.1 inches. The detector itself weighs approximately 3.4 ounces (95 g).
Compatible mounting options include standard bases, sounder bases, isolator bases, and relay bases. Ivory base options are also available to match the detector housing.
Fire Alarm Applications
This multi-criteria detector can support commercial and institutional fire alarm applications where accurate detection and nuisance alarm resistance are important.
Typical applications may include offices, schools, healthcare facilities, hotels, commercial properties, entertainment facilities, and other buildings with compatible addressable fire alarm equipment.
Its ability to provide distinct smoke and heat alarm information also offers additional system programming flexibility.
Installation and Compatibility
Always verify the fire alarm control panel, SLC protocol, mounting base, address range, and system programming before installation.
The ivory MCS-PTIR-IV supports both Velociti and CLIP communication. However, technicians should confirm compatibility with the specific control panel and system configuration before replacing an existing detector.
Qualified fire alarm professionals should install, address, program, and test the device. In addition, technicians should follow Honeywell installation instructions and applicable fire alarm requirements.
Overall, this Honeywell multi-criteria fire detector combines photoelectric, thermal, and infrared sensing in one intelligent device. Its advanced nuisance alarm resistance, 135°F thermal threshold, rotary addressing, low standby current, and Velociti/CLIP communication make it a versatile detection solution for compatible addressable fire alarm systems.


