Beam & Aspirating Detection

Shop aspirating smoke detectors, optical beam detectors and OSID imaging detectors for warehouses, atria, data centres and other large or high-ceiling spaces where point detectors are impractical, plus the pipe, fittings and spares to install and maintain them.

Beam and aspirating detection we stock

• Aspirating smoke detection (ASD): VESDA by Xtralis VESDA-E detectors such as the VEP-A00-P 4-pipe detector, VLF and VLI units and FAAST FLEX; AirSense Stratos HSSD2, Stratos Micra and ModuLaser; and Hochiki FIRElink, including the FIRELINK-25.
• Reflective beam detectors: Fireray 5000, One and Hub from Fire Fighting Enterprises (for example the Fireray 5000 50m auto-aligning kit), the Apollo SA7100 intelligent beam detector, Fire Beam BLUE and Xtra, Hochiki, Zeta and Notifier beams.
• End-to-end and explosion-proof beams: Fireray 3000 transmitter/receiver kits, including Exd versions.
• OSID: VESDA open-area smoke imaging detectors such as the OSI-10 and OSI-90, with emitters, housings and test filters.
• Pipe, fittings and spares: sampling points, capillary kits, filters, power supplies, anti-condensation heaters, prisms, range extension kits and brackets.

How to choose

• Beam or aspirating? Beam detectors cover large open areas with a clear line of sight cost-effectively. Aspirating systems draw air through a pipe network to a central detector, suiting high-sensitivity, hard-to-access or dirty environments.
• Reflective or end-to-end: reflective beams need wiring at one end only; end-to-end beams use a separate transmitter and receiver.
• Range and alignment: check the rated range, whether a range extension kit is needed and whether motorised auto-alignment will help where the structure moves.
• Panel compatibility: choose conventional, addressable or loop-powered versions to suit your fire alarm panel, or add an interface module.
• Standards: beam detectors are tested to EN 54-12 and aspirating detectors to EN 54-20; design and install in line with BS 5839-1.

Why buy from JEM Systems UK

JEM Systems UK supplies genuine VESDA by Xtralis, Fireray, Hochiki and AirSense products, all brand new and factory sealed, to trade installers across the UK. Trade and installer customers can order detectors, pipework and service spares together, with fast, tracked UK delivery.

Beam and aspirating detection FAQs

What is an aspirating smoke detector?

An aspirating smoke detector (ASD) uses a fan to draw air continuously through sampling holes in a pipe network to a sensitive detection chamber, giving very early warning. VESDA is Xtralis's aspirating range.

What is the difference between a beam detector and a smoke detector?

A point smoke detector senses smoke at one location on the ceiling. A beam detector projects an infrared beam across the protected area and signals an alarm when smoke obscures it, so a single unit can cover a large open space.

How do I test a beam detector?

Usually by placing a calibrated obscuration test filter in the beam path, following the manufacturer's instructions. We stock Fireray and OSID test filters.

Can I buy VESDA pipe and fittings separately?

Yes. We stock VESDA 25mm ABS fittings in red and white, sampling points, capillary kits, clips and solvent cement, plus FIRElink and Stratos pipe and fittings.

Learn more: aspirating smoke detection guide