The O-Range smoke control panel is a dedicated AOV control unit designed to manage smoke and heat ventilation systems in residential and commercial buildings. Available in single-zone and multi-zone configurations, O-Range panels control the opening of roof vents and dampers on detection of smoke, integrating with the building’s fire alarm system and providing battery-backed operation to BS EN 12101-10.

What Is an O-Range Smoke Control Panel?

O-Range is a UK brand of smoke control panels specifically engineered for AOV (Automatic Opening Vent) systems in buildings where smoke ventilation is required under Approved Document B or BS 9991. The panels receive signals from optical smoke detectors or from the building’s fire alarm system, then trigger actuators on vents and dampers to clear smoke from escape routes.

O-Range panels are designed for straightforward installation and commissioning, with clearly labelled terminals, integral zone indication LEDs, and a logical menu structure for setting detector sensitivity and override functions.

O-Range Panel Range Overview

Single-Zone O-Range Panel

The single-zone O-Range panel controls one smoke ventilation zone — typically a single stairwell or corridor run. It accepts inputs from up to 20 optical smoke detectors on a conventional zone circuit, provides 24 V DC output to drive multiple actuators simultaneously, and includes a key-switch for fire service override. Battery backup is typically provided by a separate BS EN 12101-10-compliant BBU or an integral battery pack depending on the model variant.

Multi-Zone O-Range Panel

Multi-zone O-Range panels are configured for buildings with more than one smoke ventilation zone — for example, a block of flats where each floor’s lobby is a separate zone, or a commercial building with multiple stairwells. Each zone can be independently activated, allowing targeted smoke clearance without unnecessarily opening all vents in the building. Zone isolation is possible for maintenance without taking the whole system offline.

Key Features of O-Range Panels

  • 24 V DC output — compatible with all standard AOV actuators and damper motors
  • Conventional detector input — accepts standard optical smoke detectors on a 2-wire zone circuit
  • Fire alarm interface — volt-free input for trigger from addressable fire alarm panel
  • Fire service override — key-switch allows manual open/close from the lobby or ground floor position
  • Fault monitoring — monitors detector circuit continuity, actuator supply, and battery condition
  • LED zone indication — clear zone-by-zone status display on the panel fascia
  • Battery backup compatible — accepts external BBU or includes integral sealed battery depending on model
  • Surface or flush mounting — standard DIN enclosure suitable for wall-mount installation in protected locations

Wiring an O-Range Panel

O-Range panels use a standard terminal block layout. The mains supply (230 V AC) connects to the integral transformer. The 24 V DC output feeds the actuator circuit. Detector circuits connect as conventional 2-wire zones with an end-of-line resistor. The fire alarm interface accepts a normally-closed volt-free contact that opens on alarm.

All wiring should use fire-rated cable (typically 2-core × 1.5 mm² MICC or FP200 Gold) to ensure circuit integrity for the duration of the fire. Wiring runs should avoid areas of fire risk where possible and be mechanically protected where they pass through unprotected zones.

Commissioning an O-Range Panel

Commissioning involves confirming that each detector circuit correctly triggers the panel, that all actuators receive the activation signal and respond correctly, that the fire service override switch operates independently of the detector circuit, and that the battery backup maintains operation with mains disconnected. A commissioning certificate should be completed and retained as part of the building’s fire safety documentation.

Compatible AOV Components

O-Range panels are compatible with a wide range of 24 V DC AOV actuators, roof vents, and smoke dampers. AOV Direct supplies:

Frequently Asked Questions

Can an O-Range panel work with an addressable fire alarm?

Yes. O-Range panels include a volt-free contact input that accepts a trigger signal from an addressable fire alarm control panel. The fire alarm sends a signal on detection, the O-Range panel activates the AOV system. The detector circuits within the O-Range panel can also operate independently if the fire alarm does not cover the AOV zones.

How many actuators can an O-Range panel drive?

This depends on the panel’s output current rating and the current draw of each actuator. Typical 24 V DC actuators draw 0.5–2 A each. A panel with a 4 A output can drive 2–8 actuators depending on their individual current draw. Check the panel datasheet and actuator specifications before sizing the installation.

Where should an O-Range panel be installed?

The panel should be installed in a protected location — typically a dedicated fire services cupboard, plant room, or protected corridor — that is accessible to the fire service without passing through the fire compartment. It should not be installed within the area it is protecting.