Kidde Commercial

R-Series Graphic Annunciator Driver Interface with 32 LED Zones and Common Controls

SKU KD-GCIX

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The Kidde GCIX Graphic Annunciator Driver connects your fire alarm control panel to a custom LED-based graphic annunciator display. It drives 32 LEDs for alarm and supervisory zone indication plus 16 switches for common controls, giving building occupants and responding personnel a visual map of exactly where an event is happening.

Built for the commercial fire alarm installer

The GCIX communicates with the FACP over an RS-485 data riser (Class A or Class B, 9600 baud) and requires no programming - set the network address with the onboard DIP switches and the unit pulls all zone data from the panel automatically. Powered by 24 VDC from the FACP or an approved auxiliary supply, it draws just 36 mA in standby and 146 mA at full alarm with 36 LEDs lit. UL and ULC listed. FDNY COA 6020 approved for New York City installations.

Key features

  • 32 LED zones and 16 switches: drives a full custom graphic panel with alarm, supervisory, and common control indication
  • No programming required: set the address via DIP switch and the card auto-populates from the FACP
  • RS-485 Class A or Class B: up to 4,000 ft wire run on 18-14 AWG twisted pair
  • Snap-track mounting: attaches to a plastic mounting rail in custom graphic enclosures (2 EIA panels)
  • Expandable: connect RLED24 zone expanders to add 24 LED zone pairs each
  • UL and ULC listed for commercial fire alarm applications

System requirements

Requires a compatible Kidde fire alarm control panel with RS-485 data riser. Power from the FACP or a listed 24 VDC auxiliary supply. Wiring: 18-14 AWG twisted pair for data, 18-14 AWG for power. Maximum data riser run 4,000 ft.

Specifications

SKUKD-GCIX
BrandKidde Commercial
Form factorInterface card with snap-track mounting on plastic rail (2 EIA panels)
CommunicationRS-485, Class A or Class B, 9600 baud
Power input24 VDC continuous from FACP or approved auxiliary power supply
Alarm current146 mA at 24 VDC (with 36 LEDs ON)
Standby current36 mA at 24 VDC (with no LEDs ON)
Maximum LED current10 mA per LED
Zone capacity32 LEDs + 16 switches
Data wiring18-14 AWG twisted pair, max 4,000 ft
Power wiring18-14 AWG
Operating temp32°F to 120°F (0°C to 49°C)
Operating humidity0 to 93% RH, noncondensing at 90°F (32°C)
ComplianceUL, ULC listed; FDNY COA 6020
MountingSnap track for custom graphic enclosures

Documents and resources

FAQs

Does the GCIX require programming?
No. Set the network address using the onboard DIP switches (S1-S5) and the unit automatically receives all zone data from the fire alarm control panel. No software configuration needed.
How many LEDs and switches does the GCIX drive?
32 LEDs for alarm and supervisory zone indication, plus 16 switches for common controls on the graphic panel display. The card also includes status LEDs and an internal buzzer.
Can I expand the GCIX beyond 32 zones?
Yes. Connect RLED24 zone expanders to add 24 LED zone pairs each. Expanders connect via the expander cable terminals on the GCIX board.
What fire alarm panels is the GCIX compatible with?
The GCIX communicates with compatible Kidde FACPs over the RS-485 data riser. It supports both Class A and Class B communication configurations.
How is the GCIX powered?
24 VDC continuous from the FACP or from an approved listed auxiliary power supply. Standby draw is 36 mA with no LEDs lit; full alarm draw is 146 mA with 36 LEDs on.
Does the GCIX provide ground fault isolation?
No. The GCIX does not provide ground fault isolation. It is a stand-alone unit on the RS-485 data riser.