Comparison of BDFS36 (Exit Marking Visual Notification Appliance) and Conventional Strobes & Exit Signs
Conventional Emergency Strobes
Model #BDFS36 / Bodine Door Frame Strobe (36’)
Philips Emergency Lighting Model BDFS36
Egress Marking Visible Notification Appliance (EMVNA)
Exit Marking Visual Notification
Appliance
Low- Level Exit Signs
Light Form
Primary Utility
and Type of Light
• Alerts Occupants to
• Emergency Stroboscopically
• Provides Indirect Lighting
• Demarks Exit Location using Direct Lighting
• Does not “alert” occupants to existence of
emergency condition
• Demarks Exit Location using Direct Lighting
• Does not “alert” occupants to existence of
emergency condition
• Alerts Occupants to Emergency Stroboscopically
• Demarks Exit Location Stroboscopically
• Directs Occupants to Exit Stroboscopically
• Provides Direct & Indirect Lighting
Device Location
& Visibility
relative to smoke
filling its
area or space
• Typically mounted 80” to 96” A.F.F.
(by code requirement)
• Situated where occlusive smoke accumulates
first and quickly
• Typically directly above the doorway
• Situated where occlusive smoke accumulates
first and quickly
• Typically installed 12” - 18” AFF
• Situated where they are frequently kicked, carts,
baggage and equipment run into them and where
low-level debris, boxes, suitcases, carts and other
commonly found items and/or other evacuating
occupants can completely block their view from
others downstream visually
• Typically installed is around the “entire
periphery” of a doorway “and” along the
doorway’s flanking side along the top of the
baseboard or trim • Light message is delivered
both, up high “and” at low-level • Luminary is
protected by recess of surrounding door trim or
frame hardware relief
• Generally low in intensity • Non-Stroboscopic
Direct Lighting • Typically 9” x 12” Single Point
of Light • Located high on wall above doorway
where occlusive smoke accumulates first and
quickly • Viewer’s Angle of Approach has dramatic
impact on effectiveness • Requires ability to read
to comprehend (children & viusualy impaired)
• Low in intensity light • Non-Stroboscopic Direct
Lighting • Viewer’s Angle of Approach of Approach
has dramatic impact on effectiveness • Small in
size • Single Point of Light; difficult for partially
sighted, low-vision and legally blind individuals to
see • Located where other evacuating occupants,
baggage, carts and other obstructions can easily
block them from view • Requires ability to read to
comprehend (children & visually impaired)
• Medium intensity • Low “flash-blindness”
risk • Alerts Stroboscopically • Light emission
is viewable from any angle of approach • Long
linear luminary capabilities provide continuous
length of 24’ - 36’ (lineal feet) of light of
“multiple points of light” • Light form shaped
in the universally recognized shape of the exit
doorway • Light color easiest for human eye to
detect in contrasted settings
Comparison of
Attributes
Philips Emergency Lighting div. of Philips Lighting NA Corp
Exit Signs
• High-intensity light • Flash-blindness risk •
Alerts Stroboscopicaly • Indirect Lighting • Small
single Point of Light • Located dhigh on the wall
or ceiling at 30”- 96” over F.F.E. where occuslive
smoke accumulates first and quickly • When
interacting with smoke, can cause glare
User’s Manual Installation Instructions & Owner’s Information
Model #BDFS36 Series; the Bodine Door Frame Strobe 36’ is also referred to in this manual
as an Egress Marking Visible Notification Appliance™ (or “EMVNA™” or “BDFS36 EMVNA”)
Intertek (ETL) Listed to UL1971 and Conforms to UL Std 1971
WARNING
NOTE: This manual shall be left with the owner/user of this equipment.
NOTE: This appliance is intended to be installed in a metallic or non-metallic UL Listed or
Classified 2HR outlet box. Always confirm that the outlet box being used for installation in
fire rated systems and facilities is acceptable to the jurisdiction’s AHJ and the facilities’ or
building’s particular specification for same.
NOTE: Always confirm that the outlet box being used for installation is adequately sized
and that it properly fits with the BDFS36. Driver prior to installation of the outlet box in the
device’s intended setting.
LIMITED WARRANTY
Philips Emergency Lighting (“PHILIPS”) warrants its enclosed BDFS36 “Driver” to be free from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and
service for a period of three (3) years from date of manufacture. PHILIPS warrants the device’s accompanying enclosed BDFS36 “LightStrand(s)” to be free
from defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and service for a period of one (1) year from date of manufacture. PHILIPS makes no other
express warranty for this product. No agent, representative, dealer, or employee of PHILIPS has the authority to increase or alter the obligations or limitations
of this Warranty. PHILIPS’s obligation of this Warranty shall be limited to the replacement of any part of the product which is found to be defective in materials
or workmanship under normal use and service during the three year period commencing with the date of manufacture. To request a Return Authorization
Number (RA#) from Philips Emergency Lighting, please email BodineRMA@philips.com or phone 800-223-5728, Ext 1681. Once you have been issued an
RA#, please send the defective units and details, postage prepaid to: PHILIPS Emergency Lighting, Returns Department, RA #________, 236 Mt Pleasant
Rd, Collierville, TN 38017. IMPORTANT: Returned units will not be inspected and/or repaired/replaced unless they are accompanied by; (i) a written
description of the date, time and location of the malfunction experienced, (ii) a legible detailed written description of the malfunction and suspected cause of
failure, (ii) your detailed contact information, including address, email address, telephone number, and any other information that might be useful to PHILIPS.
PHILIPS shall not be obligated to replace units which are found to be defective because of damage, unreasonable use, modifications, or alterations occurring
after the date of manufacture. In no case shall PHILIPS be liable for any consequential or incidental damages for breach of this or any other Warranty,
expressed or implied whatsoever, even if the loss or damage is caused by PHILIPS’s negligence or fault. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation
of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you. This Warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may
also have other rights which vary from state to state.
Cleaning & Maintenance: Each BDFS36 should be maintained in good operating condition and should be tested pursuant to local codes, ordinances and
regulations governing same. Periodic inspections and tests should be made to insure that the BDFS36 properly operates when called on to do so. BDFS36, like all
visible notification appliances, may require occasional cleaning to remove dust or other debris that might accumulate on the appliance over time; specifically, it’s
LightStrands. Local conditions of the space where it is installed will dictate how often you will need to clean the BDFS36. FOR LIGHTSTRANDS: USE A “LIGHTLY
DAMP CLOTH WITH A MILD SOAP & WATER CLEANING MIXTURE ONLY” [DO NOT USE OIL BASED DUSTING CLEANERS, CLEANING SOLVENTS OR
ANTI-STATIC FURNITURE POLISHES TO CLEAN THE LIGHTSTRANDS].
Installation/Mounting Instructions
IMPORTANT- READ AND UNDERSTAND ALL OF THE WARNINGS, INSTRUCTIONS &
INFORMATION IN YOUR USER’S MANUAL!
Philips Emergency Lighting Model BDFS36
The BDFS36 is primarily designed and configured to be installed in a UL Listed/UL Classified 2HR-W/C single-gang electrical outlet/switch
box on a wall around the periphery of an exit doorway, exit-window, or other exit porthole and/or at lower elevational levels nearer the floor
oftentimes running along the top of a baseboard or along a predetermined emergency path of egress in a space to alert, demark and direct
users, emergency response personnel, and occupants to such exits or along such pre-determined paths of egress in buildings or outdoors
for evacuation or relocation purposes. There are literally too many usable alternative physical installation configurations and applications to
list.
Some of the limitations of BDFS36 EMVNA’s to consider:
The BDFS36 EMVNA will not work without power. The BDFS36 EMVNA gets its power from the fire panel, security panel or other system it is connected to which monitors and energizes the alarm system. If power
is cut off for any reason, the BDFS36™ EMVNA will not operate to deliver its visual signal/warning. BDFS36™ EMVNA’s must be powered continuously in order to operate.
MOUNTING/INSTALLING THE BDFS36 PRODUCT: The BDFS36 is intended for use in Fire Alarm Systems and is to be installed in
accordance with this manual, the recommendation of local authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ’s) and other NFPA documents that provide
standards on visible notification appliances. This device is designed to be installed recessed into a new-work single gang 2HR-W/C
electrical outlet box (j-box) mounted in/on a wall above, adjacent to or otherwise, at an exit doorway, and/or along a predetermined path of
egress, oftentimes resting its linear form luminaries along the doorway outer periphery edge or trim around a doorway or along the top of a
baseboard or cov-base along an egress path. Alternative installations can be accommodated for fire authority approved egress windows,
hallway baseboards to provide low-level egress signaling, in stairwells and a myriad of other useful applications and locations.
The BDFS36 EMVNA does not broadcast an “audible” signal. The BDFS36 EMVNA is a “visible” notification appliance which meets (or exceeds) current Underwriters Laboratories’ standards for such devices.
Control No. 4010592
A BDFS36 EMVNA light signal may not be seen. This egress marking visible notification appliance uses a linear form of luminary that is reliable. Its luminary (“LightStrand™”) is designed to be illuminated for
up to several thousand hours of continuous use prior to its need for replacement if properly installed. It flashes at least once every second. The BDFS36 EMVNA must not be installed in direct sunlight as its LightStrands can be damaged by prolonged exposure to sunlight (UV). It is also unwise to install a BDFS36 EMVNA in areas of high light intensity (over 60 foot candles) where the visual signals might be overlooked
or otherwise disregarded or not seen by occupants. The BDFS36 EMVNA may not be seen by the visually impaired.
Always make sure to confirm NAC system’s synch pulse compatibility and appropriately pre-adjust dip switch setting on Driver to
match proper outputs.
The BDFS36 EMVNA may cause seizures. Individuals who have positive photoic response to visual stimuli with seizures, such as persons with epilepsy, should avoid prolonged exposure to environments in which
strobe signals, including this strobe, are activated.
The BDFS36 EMVNA cannot operate from coded power supplies. Coded power supplies produce interrupted power. The strobe must have an uninterrupted source of power in order to operate correctly.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The Philips Emergency Lighting Model #BDFS36 Integrated Egress Marking Visible Notification Appliance (“BDFS36 EMVNA”) is a technologically advanced
NAC-supervised fire-alarm system-integrated visible notification appliance for deaf and hard of hearing persons and for others with physical or sensory impairments
such as epilepsy, partial sightedness, low vision and/or other impairments commonly associated with aging. In fact, this advanced form of visual notification can
serve anyone during a building crisis. The BDFS36 is a transgenerationally designed notification appliance which has been designed to be passively compatible
with all other visible notification appliances operating in a given space on a notification appliance circuit (“NAC”) through its copyrighted proprietary firmware driving
the device. This appliance is specifically designed to be a low power consuming passive visible notification appliance in the NAC, compatible with, but totally
independent of, other visible notification appliances operating in the common NAC. The BDFS36 is specifically designed to not interfere, hinder or otherwise limit or
affect any other device’s ability to operate on the common/indigenous NAC.
The BDFS36 provides visible stimuli and information to users, emergency response personnel, and occupants which is targeted in the general building, area, or
space, (or only specific parts of a building, area, or space designated in specific zones and sub-zones). At the exit doorway, and/or along a predetermined path of
egress, the BDFS36 provides floor to top-of-jamb illumination or low-level illumination in a notification-zone-synchronized linear configuration and emits a flashed
emergency light message of appropriate intensity to occupants, users and emergency response personnel in order: (i) to initiate emergency action; and, (ii) to
demark the exits and/or pre-determined paths of egress; and, (iii) to direct occupants and emergency response and rescue personnel to such exits or along such
pre-determined paths of egress in buildings for evacuation or relocation purposes.
In contrast to and unlike typical high-intensity, point-source, indirect-light emitting visual notification appliances that alert occupants to the existence of an
emergency condition and deliver indirect light from a single point which is elevationally high in the space (as prescribed by code) which can quickly become
occluded by smoke from a fire, the BDFS36’s distinct system compatible design distributes an exceedingly overt “linear”, “direct” and “moderately bright” form
of visible notification message at, in and around areas which are unreachable by conventional notification appliance’s light messages when the smoke fills a
space and occludes their light. As a Visible Notification Appliance, the BDFS36 can be installed both, above, “and” below 80” above f.f.e. In order to provide a
wider variety of functionality and effectiveness to the evacuating occupant, the BDFS36 is visible from any and angle of approach “and” places the light message
in more effective physical locations which allow it to deliver a more functional and more effective message to occupants as smoke fills a space. The BDFS36’s
configuration allows its illumination to extend well below the spaces obscured by the growing smoke plume as a fire grows and the space fills with smoke during
a fire. Inarguably, this superior configuration of NAC-actuated NAC-driven signaling technology and design provides greater access to and usability of the facility
where installed and used.
A BDFS36 EMVNA cannot be seen when objects such as doors, furniture, walls, debris or other persons or things block it from view and an BDFS36 EMVNA must be in the direct viewing area of the occupant to be
seen. Note that visible signaling devices are not the only means through which the hearing impaired can be alerted and, in fact, visible signaling devices may not be the preferred method for notifying all individuals
whom are hearing impaired.
Your BDFS36 Driver has a dip-switch (see figure right) which will allow you to customize the behavior of BDFS36 when alarmed. This dip-switch allows for
different brightness, flash-pattern and sync-pulse settings and allows the device to be compatible with other systems and their visible notification appliances
flashing in the connected zone. Your BDFS36 device can be adjusted using a variety of dip-switch settings to allow the device’s required standard compatibility
with the sync-pulse being used in the NAC. These dip-switch settings can be made while the NAC is alarmed and operating to visually confirm the appliance’s
synchronization with other appliances in the line of sight and connected zone.
+/- Input to Power Source
(NAC)
Philips Emergency Lighting Model BDFS36
Egress Marking Visible Notification Appliance (“EMVNA”)
Driver & Driver Housing / T-Connector / LightStrand
Graphic Overview and Specifications
BDFS36
The Philips Emergency Lighting’s BDFS36 series of visible notification appliances offers a variety of applications for primarily indoor settings. These devices
automatically work on either 12V or 24V power supplies and some versions of the technology can be used independently of the NAC and are battery or battery
back-up operated. Generally speaking, the BDFS36 products may also be available in a variety of types/versions to serve your facility or structure in many types
of applications such as; (i) a two-wire fire alarm system-integrated version, where a fire alarm control panel, through the NAC drives it, (ii) a security/burglar alarm
(or fire/burglar combo), where the system control panel is configured to control its activation, (iii) emergency illumination systems where the emergency illumination
system is configured to energize its operation in events such as power-failure or use as a low-level exit demarcation device, and (iv) access control systems;
where the appliance can be configured to work as a visual alert as an extension of the system’s access control functions. System integrated BDFS36 products, like
this one, are suitable for use in a variety of synchronized notification appliance circuits systems. The Model BDFS36 device can be configured (or can use sync
modules) to sync with most common notification appliance in a NAC found in facilities today.
NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE CIRCUITRY (NAC) DESIGN AND WIRING: The NAC system designer, engineer and/or integrator must
always insure that: (i) the total current drawn by the devices on the NAC circuit does not exceed the current capability of the panel supply with proper
reserves for backup scenarios, and, (ii) the last device on the circuit is properly configured and operating within its rated voltage. The current draw information for
the BDFS36 and for making these calculations can be found in this User’s Manual. Please make sure to reference it and to properly calculate and double-check the
voltage drop for accuracy. When calculating the voltage available to the last device, always make sure to consider the voltage drop due to the resistance of the wire
comprising the NAC loop. Typically, the thicker the gauge and the higher the quality of NAC loop wire, the lower the loss over distance and resultantly, the smaller
the voltage drop. A myriad of wire resistance tables and guides are available online and/or can be obtained from electrical handbooks. When Class A wiring is
utilized in the NAC construction, the wire length may be up to twice as long as it would be for circuits that are not fault tolerant. The BDFS36 may be installed in-line
with other visible notification devices in the NAC (in-line) and, when properly configured, also as an end-of-line (EOL) device.
“EQUIVALENCY” AND THE BDFS36: This document and the information contained in it, other information regarding the BDFS36 which may be available from
Philips Emergency Lighting upon request, and an AHJ’s review of the technical data and information on the BDFS36’s ETL (Intertek) Listing to UL 1971 which
may be found at http://etlwhidirectory.etlsemko.com/WebClients/ITS/DLP/products.nsf/$$Search?OpenForm, may serve as technical information that may be
presented to an AHJ when seeking his/her approval for use of the appliance under Equivalency if/when necessary. The principle of Equivalency, as defined by
the NFPA in many of its fire codes, states that, “Nothing in this Code shall prevent the use of systems, methods, devices, or appliances of equivalent or superior
quality, strength, fire resistance, effectiveness, durability, and safety over those prescribed by this Code.” Obviously, the intention of the NFPA is to advance
America’s abilities and capabilities to combat fire and the effects thereof by providing a clear-cut foundation and path for new processes, devices, appliances, and
technologies that serve to deliver new and marginally beneficial efficacies and advancements in the art of fire safety to occupants and responding emergency
personnel, alike, when fire strikes a structure. The NFPA’s decades-long inclusion and incorporation of this language and, through it, the Codes’ approach to
reaching out to new technology and the advancement of fire safety overall is well founded and well established as a result. This principle allows an AHJ to think
outside the sometimes dogmatic box to embrace new advancements, like the BDFS36 technology and gives him/her the latitude to include new performance-based
technologies and advancements in order to seize logical opportunities to create safer places and spaces for occupants and the emergency responders who may
enter them in a fire.
Per the NFPA 101®: Life Safety Code® Handbook, 2012 Edition by NFPA 12th edition published by National Fire Protection Association in its overview of Section
1.4* Equivalency, the NFPA states, “Section 1.4, Equivalency, presents a powerful design alternative that permits individual and multiple specification-based
requirements to be satisfied by components and systems that the authority having jurisdiction is convinced meet the goals, objectives, and intended level of life
safety of the Code. Where all life safety systems, rather than individual and multiple specification-based systems, are engineered to meet the goals and objectives
of the Code, true performance-based design is permitted in accordance with Chapter 5. In other words, equivalency deals with discrete, manageable pieces of
the overall life safety system; performance-based design treats the system as a whole. See Section 4.4.” The NFPA 101 Handbook goes on to say, “With each
new edition, the Code continues its evolution from a specification-based code to a performance-oriented code.” The NFPA 72 Handbook, despite its more cryptic
approach, mirrors this approach to Equivalency. NFPA’s 72 says that under this approach, “Technical documentation shall be submitted to the authority having
jurisdiction to demonstrate equivalency,” and goes on to state, “The systems, methods, devices, or appliances that are found equivalent shall be approved.”
Moreover, it expressly vests the AHJ with the authority to make the call through stating, “The authority having jurisdiction determines whether a product, method, or
device is suitable.” It is in this light that every facility, building or structure whose designs and operations fall under these primary codes, should seriously consider
the marginal efficacy that a new technology presents to the occupants and should similarly consider the ultimate accountability for being aware of same and not
embracing same when having done so would have made a serious difference to occupants had it been included in the building’s integrated fire systems.
What makes the BDFS36 superior to traditional xenon strobes is that unlike traditional xenon strobes that flash to alert and hope to create enough indirect ambient
light over a broad area of space for occupants to locate the path of egress using their large bursts of light from up high on a wall, when thick black smoke fills the
space, they are easily blocked from performing their intended purpose and their light message is obstructed because of the smoke filling the space. The BDFS36,
while also flashing as an alert, ALSO identifies the path of egress in areas in areas that are well below the thick black smoke layer; giving the occupants the longest
possible time to escape the fire crisis and/or smoke event.
Due to the BDFS36’s superior location (well below the always below the horizontal smoke column) and its high visibility from all angles of approach in most
installation configurations, its flashing light is not located, solely, up high on the wall and hidden from view by the thick black smoke like traditional appliances are
and where most exit signs are located. This arrangement provides the BDFS36 with the ability to provide occupants with a higher capability to locate the exit after
smoke comes pouring in. Because it is actually also located down low below the thick black smoke and at the actual path of egress, and given that occupants could
likely be crawling underneath the smoke within inches of the BDFS36, its luminary light intensity must be tempered so NOT to cause flash blindness while they are
attempting to locate the safe exit or path of egress and pass by the luminary.
The BDFS36 is a primary device, just like all other xenon light based notification appliances (strobes), because it MUST connect to the NAC in order to trigger
its synchronized flash with the other notification appliances in the connected zone and line of sight as required by law. Supplementary Devices DO NOT connect
to a NAC circuit and are not required to flash in sync with traditional xenon strobes. The BDFS36 does both. [An example of a supplementary / auxiliary visual
notification device would be a doorbell that triggers a flashing light to alert a hearing impaired person.] Therefore, under the principle of “Equivalency”, under NFPA
72 and most other fire codes, Users and AHJ’s may opt for the BDFS36 due to the greater benefit that it provides occupants through its equivalent capabilities to
“alert” (flash) in sync with other appliances AND its superior location placement of that light message during a building crisis. Inarguably, the BDFS36 delivers a
higher overall efficacy for occupants at the exit points of a structure and the AHJ is vested with the ability to utilize the advancement under laws; the same laws
using the same required processes afforded all other traditional visible notification appliances.
It is important to note that, in determining equivalency, the AHJ’s are responsible for and accountable to provide a safe and lawfully compliant environment for
the occupants. New technologies, like the BDFS36 perform this job better than traditional visible notification technologies do or can. This is especially true when
considering a specific location’s needs in locations like where exit doors are present. In fact, the ADA strictly prohibits AHJ’s from preventing new technologies that
provide an equal or superior benefit to a person who is hearing impaired from entering the marketplace. A reasonable AHJ must consider that the thick black smoke
fills from the ceiling down and traditional xenon strobes “and” above-door exit signage are quickly obstructed by the smoke. Therefore, the hearing impaired person
quickly cannot identify the exit using a traditional xenon strobe and cannot hear people or emergency personally call or directing them to the exit. BDFS36 without
question will give the hearing impaired occupant a superior chance at identifying the exits once thick black smoke has begun to fill a building by allowing them the
longest possible time to identity the actual path of egress or exit location below the thick black smoke.
When considering mass notification and public mode notification systems and appliances, it is important to recognize that different code and standards exist across
the US. Insuring compliance dictates that these codes and standards, such as NFPA 72-National Fire Alarm & Signaling Code, UL 1971-Signaling Devices for the
Hearing Impaired, other performance standards and all of the American with Disabilities Act of 1990, et seq., requirements and provisions be met. The BDFS36
is compliant with all of these codes and standards and meets the ADA requirements through its “equivalent facilitation” provision. Authorities Having Jurisdiction
(AHJ’s), like your local fire marshal, are well versed in the equivalent facilitation principle and are a great resource to seek out when you want to confirm that you
are in compliance in your facility.
“EQUIVALENT FACILITATION” and the BDFS36: NFPA describes equivalent facilitation in the following way: “Departures from particular technical and scoping
requirements of this guideline by the use of other designs and technologies are permitted where the alternative designs and technologies used will provide
substantially equivalent or greater access to and usability of the facility.” Moreover, ADAAG, (i.e. the Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility Guideline) whose
purpose is to advance full access to citizens and to promote the inclusion of all, in terms of access, also defines equivalent facilitation (Chapter 1, Section 103
Equivalent Facilitation) in a straightforward way. ADAAG says, “Nothing in these guidelines is intended to prevent the use of designs or technologies as alternatives
to those prescribed in this document, provided they provide equivalent or superior accessibility and usability.”
In light of “equivalent facilitation”, it is important to note that among the many obvious improvements, superiorities and marginal efficacies to conventional
traditionally utilized notification methods and devices that the BDFS36 delivers to public mode notification, some of the most important among them is the
BDFS36’s unique unparalleled ability to deliver, not only, “visual alerting” capabilities to occupants at both, elevationally high “and” low locations in the space, but,
by going two steps further, by also “simultaneously” providing “demarcation of the exit locations or path(s) of egress” seamlessly at high and low elevational areas
in addition to its capability to “direct evacuating occupants” to those very same exits or along those predetermined paths of egress at both high and low locations
elevationally. This non-point-source linear form of notification is marginally efficacious In an effort to insure the most efficient The capability to install the BDFS36 in
a configuration which allows for the placement of the NAC generated light message to be emitted in high, low or a simultaneous combination of both high and low
locations on a wall or in a space which is visible from any angle of approach and always below the horizontal smoke column is particularly important to individuals
with hearing impairments or physical or sensory impairments in that this “superior” unique capability is fundamental to providing an equal opportunity for to have
an equal benefit of escaping a fire as smoke fills the space, chokes out light from other sources and increases the level of difficulty for occupants to be alerted, find
the exits and relocate to or toward those exits or along a predetermined path of egress. [Please reference or request: “A Discussion of the Egress Marking Visible
Notification Appliance for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing_(Rev.9.6_07.25.07), et seq., for a more detailed address of these issues and reference the chart below.]
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, et seq., a new technology that meets the equivalent facilitation test and or which provides a greater
access to and usability of the facility is permitted. Under the principle of “equal benefit” under the ADA, it is important to note that new advancements
in technology “must not be prohibited”, provided that the new technology provides an advancement toward creating an opportunity for equal benefit
for deaf and hard of hearing people and others with physical or sensory impairments such as epilepsy, partial-sightedness, low vision and/or other
impairments commonly associated with aging.
Model BDFS36 Detailed Installation Instructions
Output to LightStrand™
3. Set dip-switch settings on BDFS36 Driver to appropriate setting(s) for your application and system
(Reference the charts in this manual for appropriate settings). Note: your BDFS36 has been designed
tobepassivelycompatiblewithallothervisiblenotificationappliancesoperatinginagivenspaceon
aNAC.IfforsomereasonyoucannotconfigureyourBDFS36withtheNAC,trouble-shootfirstby
adjusting the dip-switch to alternative settings described in this Manual.
Switches Used
Setting
Typically Compatible with:
1Hz- Single-flash & Double-flash:
Switch #5
ON=Double-Flash
OFF=Single-Flash
Unique to BDFS36 EMVNA
Light Intensity:
Switch #4
Always Set Switch #4
to the “ON” position
Unique to BDFS36 EMVNA
Automatic:
Switches #3, #2, and #1
#1=ON / #2=ON / #3=ON
Most systems
Phase 180°:
Switches #3, #2, and #1
#1=ON / #2=ON / #3=OFF
Few systems
25 millisecond delay:
Switches #3, #2, and #1
#1=OFF / #2=ON / #3=OFF
Wheelock
20 millisecond delay:
Switches #3, #2, and #1
#1=OFF / #2=OFF / #3=ON
Gentex, Amseco, Simplex, Potter
No delay:
Switches #3, #2, and #1
#1=OFF / #2=ON / #3=OFF
System Sensor
Test Mode:
Switches #3, #2, and #1
#1=OFF / #2=OFF / #3=OFF
Unique to BDFS36 EMVNA
BDFS36 DRIVER
(Marks and lettering
faces out of j-box)
BDFS36 DRIVER
(Components and part
face into j-box)
Terminal block
connection from
EMVNA Driver
to LightStrand
T-Connector
4. ConnectNACfieldwiring(2-wire)inputfromNACorsystem’scontrolpaneltotheBDFS36Driver’s
NAC input terminals on the front of the BDFS36 Driver (shown in graphic above). Wire as an in-line
applianceorend-of-line(EOL)appliancewithanend-of-lineresistorasappropriateforyourspecific
location in the circuit.
EMVNA’s are installed in UL
Listed or UL conforming single
gang outlet box
Metallic Blank Outlet Cover
EMVNA Driver-Cover
(2-screw/single-gang)
32°F to 120°F (0°C to 49°C)
Humidity Range
Driver: 10 to 93% Non-condensing, LightStrand Assembly: should not be stored or installed in regularly wet or high-humidity areas.
Flash Rate
Switch selection for two (2) separate code-compliant flash settings (1 Hz patterns)
Brightness
Switch selection for one of 2 brightness levels
Nominal Voltage
Regulated 12VDC/FWR or regulated 24DC/F
Operating Voltage Range (includes fire
alarm panels with built in synchronization)
8 to 17.5V (12V nominal) or 16 to 33V (24V nominal)
Current Draw
62.5 mA
Input terminal wire gauge
12 to 18 AWG
Mounting Box (outlet boxes/back-boxes):
Note: When using nonmetallic outlet and switch boxes in fire-resistant rated assemblies, outlet boxes must be
specifically investigated for use in such assemblies and are required to be marked appropriately (UL 2HR). When
installing an integrated BDFS36 EMVNA, always use metallic outlet box or a fire-rated UL Listed or Classified
2HR non-metallic single gang outlet/switch box (not provided). Always confirm that the outlet box being used for
installation is acceptable to the jurisdiction’s AHJ and the facilities’ or building’s particular specification for same and
test it with the device prior to outlet box installation to insure that the appliance can be properly mounted in the field.
BDFS36 Cover-plate & Red “FIRE” sticker
ovoverlay
Included with Device. UL Listed/ UL compliant single gang blank cover plate or single gang blank “strap-mount” wall plate and mounting
screws (Provided with device). If integrating the BDFS36 in a fire alarm system, peel off the backing, orient the clear “FIRE” sticker for
legibility (vertically or horizontally, based on the back-box’s orientation, center it, and apply it to the cover-plate.
BDFS36 Driver Dimensions:
1-13/16” Wide X 3-11/16” Long X +/- 7/8” Deep
BDFS36 T-Connector & LightStrand Kit:
LightStrand Kit Includes: One (1) fully assembled & tested LightStrand™ & over-molded T-connector and assembly complete with T-connector
mounting screws and screw-anchors with one (1) LightStrand in a length of 24’, 30’, or 36’. LightStrands are “trim-to-fit” and may be
terminated at any length desired by the installer for the location’s particular needs. The BDFS36 LightStrands are neatly coiled and ready
for installation. LightStrand kits come complete with (2) “clear” PVC wire diameter matching wire-end-caps™, at least one (1) silica gel
desiccants packet to prevent moisture build-up and all kitted in a clear heavy-duty polyethylene re-closeable zip-lock style baggie.
Note: “Handle LightStrands With Care” at all times. Do Not twist or kink the luminary strands when uncoiling
or installing them. Always make sure that the LightStrand Wire End-Caps™ are securely installed over the
LightStrand ends after trimming them for your particular location’s length requirements.
System Compatibility:
Alternative: Red single-gang nail
on box used in the installation of
fire alarms and smoke detectors.
The red color eases rough in
identification for fire alarm circuits
and smoke detectors.
Gasket underneath Cover-Plate
(between Driver and Cover-Plate)
Minimum Light Output (1Hz Frequency)
Not Less than 0.050 lux
9. Mount the LightStrand T-Connector to the wall surface at your desired location with the two (2)
T-Connector mounting screws and screw-anchors (included in the kit) and allow coiled LightStrands
to gently drop and dangle freely. Note: this T-Connector is designed to sit on top of a door edge or trim
or baseboard and to be attached to the wall with two (2) included screws and anchors. Other adhesives
such as commercial double-sided tapes (such as 3M’s clear #4026 or ULine’s double-sided peel and
stick adhesive squares) or similar double-sided foam tapes may be used in lieu of screws at Installer’s
election.
11. Measure & Mark: One side at a time, GENTLY run the light strands along the outer periphery of the
dooralongthedoortrimandalongthetopofthebaseboardlaterallyalongthefloororalongthelinear
line(s) where you will install the LightStrands to determine “generally” where you will want to terminate
the LightStrand™ length and make a small light pencil mark on the trim, wall or baseboard where you
wanttoendthewire.Note:BDFS36LightStrandsaredesignedtobe“trim-to-fit”foranydesiredlength
inyourapplicationorinstallationconfiguration.Youmay,however,notneedorwanttotrimthematall.
12. Once the length is roughed out, with a wire cutter, trim both of the LightStrands (i.e. each side) at
the length where you desire it to be terminated and temporarily slide the wire end-caps over both
LightStrand ends making sure that they snugly cover the ends. IMPORTANT: the wire End-Caps must
be installed prior to operating the device and must be in place at all times while the device is being
tested and or is operating!
13. Apply the Tubed Silicone Adhesive: READ AND UNDERSTAND THE ADHESIVE WARNINGS
AND WARRANTIES AND USE DIRECTIONS INCLUDED IN THIS USER’S MANUAL AND ON
THE ADHESIVE CONTAINER. ALWAYS USE PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR AND APPLY IN A WELL
VENTILATED AREA BETWEEN 10°F AND 100°F. CLEAN UP WITH MINERAL SPIRITS OR PAINT
THINNER.
2-wire lead connects BDFS36 Driver in j-box
with T-Connector™ & LightStrand™
[Standard length: 32” (85cm)]
Philips BDFS36 EMVNA T-Connector™
Screws to surface mount to wall/surface
Around doorway/exit periphery
and/or along top of baseboard
Around doorway/exit periphery
and/or along top of baseboard
Lengths:
12’(370cm), 15’(460cm) or 18’(550cm)
Lengths:
12’(370cm), 15’(460cm) or 18’(550cm)
Each Philips BDFS36 EMVNA uses a 36’ (1,097 cm) LightStrand luminary configured with 18’ (+/-550 cm) of luminary on each side of the T-Connector
BDFS36 Lightstrands are made with a specially designed 1.3mm (o.d.) propietary luminary
Philips Emergency Lighting Model BDFS26 LightStrands are UL94 V-0 rated for flammability
Philips Emergency Lighting LightStrands are all “trim-to-fit” and can be terminated at the exact length for the installer to meet the specific installation or
physical configuration requirements.
T-Connector/LIghtStrand Assembly
1. Use scissors to cut “just the very end of the tip of the applicator tip” (nozzle) at THE FIRST MARK on
the tip to provide about 1/8” (+/- 3mm) port opening on the tip. DO NOT CUT OFF TOO MUCH OF
THE TIP. Open the tube of adhesive (IF USING SCEM Adhesive, use the top end of the adhesive
screw-cap to puncture and open the end of the tube) and screw the applicator tip (nozzle) onto the
tube.
2. Use a small amount of provided adhesive along the back (wall-facing side) of the T-Connector
Lead-Wire and press the Lead-Wire into the silicone to adhere it to the wall. The tautness of this
wire can be adjusted by pushing excess length into the j-box underneath the Cover-Plate and then
tightening the Cover-Plate down snugly right after the silicone is applied. Make sure that the LeadWire exits from underneath the Cover-Plate through the notched relief hole so not to crush the LeadWire when the Cover-Plate is tightened down.
3. Completing one side of the doorway at a time and working from the highest elevation to the
lowest, starting at the top near the device T-Connector (the LightStrand’s midpoint), holding the
tube and dispensing tip (nozzle) at a 45° angle, lay a small consistent even bead of the adhesive
(about the size of the LightStrand diameter) in as straight a line as is possible on the wall along the
edge where the door trim meets the wall (i.e., where you want the light-strand to lay). Roll the tube
(like a tube of toothpaste) or squeeze it as needed to create pressure on the material to dispense
easier and more evenly. Stop the adhesive bead at your pencil mark where the wire will end.
4. Starting where the LightStrand comes out of the device at the top of the door and keeping the wire
fairly taught in your hands as you move along the door periphery, gently press the wire into the
bead of adhesive that you just laid down pushing the LightStrand wire snuggly down into place
along the length of the door and the baseboard and smoothing out the excess silicone material with
yourindexfingertiptocreateacleansmoothflatfinish.Removeexcessadhesiveimmediately.It
is okay to gently bend the light strand around the corners to allow the light strand to follow the shape
of your door trim and base boards. [ATTENTION! ATTACH THE LIGHTSTRANDS WITHIN 3-4
MINUTES OF LAYING THE ADHESIVE BEAD ON EACH SIDE.]
5. If needed, use wire cutters to terminate the LightStrand at the desired length. Place a small (tiny)
amount of the adhesive in the open end of one of the enclosed wire end-caps (end-covers) and place
the cap securely over the end of the Light-Strand and press the wire into place.
6. REPEAT the process on the opposite side of the doorway or other side of T-connector. NOTE:
Excess lead-wire can be pushed up into the j-box or, alternatively, the lead-wire may be trimmed to
desired length by Installer.
14. Test the BDFS36 as required by local fire authority and code to insure proper configuration with
your system.
The BDFS36 device is designed and tested to be compatible with and passively flash in a 1Hz synchronized pattern. The device has
dip-switch adjustable settings for several modes and patterns for differing configurations. Please reference the chart above to assess and
determine your field settings for your application.
The BDFS36 device can be field-calibrated (dip-switch adjustable) to two (2) different 1 Hz flash patterns; (i) one setting for “single-flash”
and one setting for “double-flash” suitable for a variety of applications.
6. Install / Recess the BDFS36 Driver into outlet box “component side facing into the box” so that the
product’sspecificationscanbeseenandaligntheBDFS36Driver’sscrew-holeswithmatchingscrew-
holes in outlet box as shown above.
10. With the T-Connector mounted and LightStrands dangling straight down, remove the twist-ties
from the coiled LightStrands and “gently” uncoil the LightStrands allowing them to hang straight
down from the mounted T-Connector. [NOTE: Uncoil the LightStrands slowly and do not kink or
sharply bend them while uncoiling. ALWAYS HANDLE LIGHTSTRANDS WITH CARE. [BE
CAREFUL NOT TO STEP ON, TWIST OR OTHERWISE PULL ON THE STRANDS OR LET
THEM TWIST TOGETHER. EXCESSIVE BENDING AND/OR ROUGH HANDLING OF THE
LIGHTSTRANDS CAN RENDER THEM UNUSEABLE.].
Field-cut lead-wire to fit installation
need (typical 32” (85cm) provided with
accompanying EMVNA LightStrand Kit)
Each BDFS36 Kit includes one (1) 2.8 oz. tube of Architectural RTV or Super-Clear Easy-Mount Silicone™ to mount the LightStrands to
the wall or other surface where being installed. Alternative applications can require alternative forms of adhering the LightStrands to its
substrate(s). Additional supplies of special formula of Super-Clear Silicone Adhesive™ and/or Tape (special order) is available for many of
these Industrial/Heavy Commercial settings and substrates and may be ordered separately and may be an easier LightStrand™ installation
alternative for your facility.
Adjustable 1 Hz Flash Output Patterns
5. Pull the end of the LightStrand’s white T-Connector lead-wire through appropriate hole in Driver, if
desired, knot once for strain relief, and connect to BDFS36 LightStrand output terminals (shown
above). Note: The white T-Connector lead-wire can be run behind wall surface if desired.
7. Write the date of installation and name of installer of your BDFS36 on the back of the BDFS36 CoverPlate or in small font on the BDFS36 Driver with a Sharpie permanent marker.
BDFS36 SPECIFICATIONS
Operating Temperature
8. Screw BDFS36 Cover-Plate screws through the BDFS36 Driver screw holes and lightly tighten
cover-plate over the outlet box making sure to align the LightStrand T-Connector to exit the underside
of the Cover-Plate at the location desired. (The Cover-Plates are notched on the edge of the plate for
the lead-wire to provide a relief (space) between the wall surface and the cover-plate to avoid crushing
the T-Connector’s lead wire where it exits the box).
with and integrated with/into “all” Listed and approved control systems and can work with the other integrated and similarly approved visible notification appliances
in any NAC anywhere for the benefit of the hearing impaired, citizens with physical or sensory impairments, most specifically with consideration for individuals with
epilepsy and/or those whom may have positive photoic response to visual stimuli with seizures. While the BDFS36 is a NAC-supervised device, like other visible
notification appliances used in a majority of fire alarm systems today, the BDFS36 is not an intelligent and/or addressable device and is not intended to integrate
into or with a fire alarm control system utilizing a Signaling Line Circuit (SLC) form of integration of the NAC. The BDFS36 is listed and meets (or exceeds) the
requirements of UL 1971 Standard for Signaling Devices for the Hearing Impaired as a primary Egress Marking Visible Notification Appliance, is a system device
that, in no way, interferes with other control systems or notification appliances in its integrated indigenous NAC circuitry. The BDFS36 actually provides higher
efficacy (as compared to other visible notification appliances for the hearing impaired) by not only providing its synchronized flashing “alert” light message being
visible from any angle of approach to occupants, but by also providing this message in areas that lie “below the building smoke layer when smoke banks into a
space during fire. The BDFS36 and meets all requirements under the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, et seq. Authorities Having Jurisdiction may use the
principal of equivalent facilitation to recommend the use of this device in certain occupancies or in locations where the AHJ determines that an equal benefit for
occupants is required. In the event that you discover that your BDFS36 is not compatible with a system or other devices in a system, Philips Emergency Lighting
wants to know about it. If you would like to integrate it with a control system or grouping of visual and/or audible notification appliances not yet referred to in this
manual or which are otherwise not yet dialed into the BDFS36’s scope of compatibility, Philips Emergency Lighting may be able to address your compatibility issue
quickly and/or free of charge. If this situation arises and you would like us to consider the matter, please promptly contact our customer support associates at
Philips Emergency Lighting via email at BodineTech@philips.com or tel 888-263-4638 with a description of your system and or situation and a request along with
your contact information. Our engineering and development team members will respond diligently and promptly.
BDFS36 Adhesive / Wall Mounting Format:
1. Rough-in/InstallULListedorClassified2HRmetallicornon-metallic(orother“AHJ-approved”)fire
alarm system compliant single gang electrical outlet box in preferred location as close to doorway or
BDFS36 EMVNA location and pull NAC connector wires (or system input wires) to outlet box.
2. Clean and dry the mounting surfaces where the LightStrands and T-Connector lead-wire will be
installed with clean warm “damp” (not wet) washcloth or sponge. Thoroughly clean the dust and any
debris from the door or window trim and baseboards around the door or window areas where you
intend to install the BDFS36 EMVNA’s LightStrands or connector wires. “USE A MILD SOAP & WATER
ONLY” [DO NOT USE OIL BASED DUSTING CLEANERS OR ANTI-STATIC FURNITURE POLISHES].
Make sure to allow the area to “COMPLETELY DRY” after properly cleaning.
Dip-Switch
Model BDFS36 EMVNA System & Appliance Compatibility Settings
Feature
Typical Single-Gang Electrical Outlet
Box (use uL Listed 2HR box)
Terminal block connection
to N.A.C.
Dip-switch for synch
settings to syncronize EMVNA’s 1Hz
flash with other
devices and fire
panel outputs
IMPORTANT: If you are unsure about whether your system is using one of the above mentioned sync-pulses or not, it is always best to
test your particular system with the BDFS36 prior to attempting installation.
L200_English_Manual_JUNE-2016-v2.indd 1
EMVNA Driver
IMPORTANT: Note: Philips Emergency Lighting is committed to insure that this new breakthrough technology is capable of being calibrated and configured
The BDFS36 complies with The National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code; NFPA 72 and the NFPA Life Safety Code; NFPA 101 under their respective sections titled
Equivalency and under other NFPA Codes that similarly include Equivalent Facilitation provisions in them. Simply put, the purpose of traditional visible notification
appliances (strobes) is to flash to alert a person who is deaf or hearing impaired to the existence of an emergency fire condition in a building. BDFS36 clearly
flashes to alert a person who is hearing impaired just like other connected integrated and synchronized flashing visible notification appliances.
1. Note: Always “Handle LightStrands™ Gently and uncoil them slowly with care so not to create kinks or sharp bends.”
2. Rough-in single gang UL Listed or Classified metallic or fire-rated 2HR type non-metallic outlet box and drop (pull) NAC-wires to box & pull through
3. Clean & dry LightStrand™ all mounting surfaces (do not use oil-based cleaners to clean these areas and allow area to fully dry),
4. Integrate/Install BDFS36™ Driver
• Set dip-switch settings,
• Connect input NAC-wires or system input wires to the input terminal block on the Driver,
• Connect output T-Connector lead-wires leading to appropriate LightStrand-output terminal block (shown in graphic above),
• Loosely install Driver, gasket and wall-plate/cover-plate into/over the outlet box and tuck excess T-Connector lead-wire into outlet box drawing the
white T-Connector wire to be snugly taught across the surface of the wall and then tighten down wall-plate screws (Note: this LightStrand Lead wire
can also be trimmed to desired length to fit your particular length need),
5. Mount T-Connector at desired location with provided anchors and screws letting LightStrands gently
6. Lay down silicone (or tape down) white T-Connector lead-wire to wall surface between T-Connector and where the wire exits the outlet box on wall
surface (this step is obviously not needed if the connections are being made or installed behind the wall).
7. Gently lay out LightStrands along area where you will install them. Note: LightStrands™ can be trimmed to fit your desired length by snipping off
excess length with a wire cutter or sharp scissors.
8. Slip on provided LightStrand™ wire-end-caps making sure that wire end-caps are securely fastened on the LightStrand ends before securing to
the wall.
9. Moving from closest to the T-Connector all the way out to the end of the LightStrand, apply the silicone around the doorway along the outer edge
where the door trim meets the wall and press the LightStrand into the bead of silicone laid. Note: Many installations start at the top of a doorway
at the edge of the trim around the door and follow the trim edge along the top and sides of the doorway and return along the top of the baseboard on
either side of the doorway).
Philips Emergency Lighting Model BDFS36
BDFS36’s are compatible with other control systems, are synchronized with other visible notification appliances in the connected zone and they flash at the code
required 1Hz rate while delivering a color, luminosity and intensity specifically designed for its easily seen elevationally low-level location capability and utility.
Additionally, in the absence of other visible notification appliances in the NAC, the BDFS36 is compatible with other BDFS36’s with a variety of code-compliant 1
Hz flash patterns and has switch-selectable settings to independently operate. The purpose of the BDFS36’s 1 HZ flash compatibility capability and its designed
ability to synchronize with other notification appliances in the common NAC is to avoid creating a conflict in the indigenous environment for occupants with physical
or sensory impairments, specifically with consideration for individuals with epilepsy and/or those whom may have positive photoic response to visual stimuli with
seizures (i.e. be prone to seizure as a result of being exposed to flashing light(s)). The BDFS36’s light intensity and light color is specifically designed to be not only
one of the easiest color ranges for the human brain to recognize and process in a contrasted setting, but also to be “reasonably bright – but not blindingly so”– to
avoid flash blindness and white light glare phenomena in order to prevent their negative effects of seizure of and/or the blinding of evacuee-occupants passing by
or near the BDFS36 device at the low elevational levels where the technology is commonly installed as they evacuate the structure in a fire.
CAUTION
“Quick-Install Directions”
Philips Emergency Lighting Model BDFS36
The BDFS36 EMVNA should not be installed and used in wet areas or areas prone to high condensation or intense prolonged humidity.
LightStrand T-Connector Construction Detail
Copyright © 2016 Philips Emergency Lighting, Collierville, TN. All rights reserved.
6/24/16 2:44 PM