Kidde Commercial

Genesis Ceiling High-Output ECS/MNS Strobe with FullLight Technology, White, ALERT Marking, Amber Lens

SKU KD-GCWA-VMHA

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The Kidde Genesis GCWA-VMHA puts high-output visual notification on commercial ceilings for mass notification and emergency communications (ECS/MNS) deployments. The amber lens and ALERT marking differentiate ECS/MNS signals from standard fire alarm strobes in dual-purpose occupancies where both systems run side by side - no confusion during a real event.

Built for the commercial installer

This ceiling strobe mounts flush to any standard 4" square electrical box (2-1/8" deep) with no extension ring or trim plate. The 30% slimmer profile compared to competing strobes sits less obtrusively in finished ceilings. Field-configurable candela output (82/100/130/155 cd) changes with a slide switch - no need to pull the device off the ceiling. The selected setting stays visible through a front window after the cover is closed, so the AHJ can verify without opening anything up. UL 1638, ULC S526, and ADA listed.

Key features

  • High-output amber strobe: selectable 82/100/130/155 cd covers large open areas and high-ceiling applications per UL 1638
  • Field-configurable candela: slide switch changes output without removing the device from the box
  • FullLight technology: smooth, even light distribution without the spikes and voids of specular reflectors
  • Low-profile design: protrudes just 1.0" from the ceiling (0.60" profile from the mounting surface)
  • Wide voltage range: operates on 16-33 Vdc or 16-33 Vfwr, compatible with most NAC circuits
  • Synchronization ready: meets UL sync requirements within 10 ms when used with Genesis Signal Master or compatible sync sources

System requirements

Requires a listed fire alarm control panel or NAC power supply with regulated 16-33 Vdc or FWR output. For synchronized operation, use a compatible synchronization source (SIGA-CC1S, SIGA-MCC1S, G1M-RM, BPS, APS, iO Series, or Fireshield Plus panels). Maximum 20 Ohms resistance between any two synchronized devices on the same circuit.

Specifications

SKUKD-GCWA-VMHA
BrandKidde Commercial
Form factorCeiling-mount strobe, Genesis Series
ApplicationECS/MNS (Mass Notification / Emergency Communications)
Strobe outputHigh output, selectable 82/100/130/155 cd (settings D/C/B/A, UL 1638)
Operating voltage16-33 Vdc or 16-33 Vfwr (regulated)
Current draw (24 Vdc)212 mA (82 cd) / 245 mA (100 cd) / 306 mA (130 cd) / 342 mA (155 cd)
Current draw (24 Vfwr)318 mA (82 cd) / 351 mA (100 cd) / 423 mA (130 cd) / 484 mA (155 cd)
Flash rate1 flash/sec, synchronized via G1M Genesis Signal Master
SynchronizationWithin 10 ms, max 20 Ohms between devices on the same circuit
Sync sourcesSIGA-CC1S, SIGA-MCC1S, SIGA-CC2A, SIGA-MCC2A, G1M-RM, BPS6A, BPS10A, APS6A, APS10A, iO Series, Fireshield Plus
HousingWhite, textured UV-stabilized engineered plastic, exceeds 94V-0 UL flammability
MarkingALERT (red lettering)
LensAmber, optical grade polycarbonate
Operating temp32-120°F (0-49°C)
Operating humidity0-93% RH, non-condensing
MountingFlush to 4" square electrical box, 2-1/8" (54 mm) deep
Wire connections#18 to #12 AWG (0.75-2.5 mm²)
Dimensions6.8" dia. x 1.0" H (profile 0.60" from ceiling)
ComplianceUL 1638, CAN/CSA-C22.2 No. 205, CAN/ULC-S526, ADA, CSFM, MEA

Documents and resources

FAQs

What candela settings does this strobe support?
High output, selectable 82/100/130/155 cd (settings D/C/B/A). Field-configurable via internal slide switch without removing the device from the ceiling.
Is this a fire alarm strobe or a mass notification strobe?
This is an ECS/MNS (mass notification / emergency communications) appliance. The amber lens and ALERT marking distinguish it from fire alarm strobes. For fire alarm applications with clear lens and FIRE marking, see the GCF-VM or GCFR-VM models.
What electrical box does this mount to?
Standard North American 4" square electrical box, 2-1/8" (54 mm) deep. No extension ring or trim plate needed. Mounts flush with just 0.60" profile from the ceiling surface.
Does this strobe synchronize with other Genesis devices?
Yes. Within 10 ms using SIGA-CC1S, SIGA-MCC1S, SIGA-CC2A, SIGA-MCC2A, G1M-RM, BPS6A, BPS10A, APS6A, APS10A, iO Series, or Fireshield Plus. Max 20 Ohms between devices.
What is the current draw at each candela setting?
At 24 Vdc: 212 mA (82 cd), 245 mA (100 cd), 306 mA (130 cd), 342 mA (155 cd). At 24 Vfwr: 318 mA, 351 mA, 423 mA, 484 mA respectively. Use for NAC circuit loading calculations.
Can I change the candela setting after installation?
Yes. Unlatch and twist to open, slide the candela switch to the desired setting, then close. No need to remove the strobe from the box. Setting stays visible through a front window for AHJ verification.