CSL

CSL Mini Air 2 – PSI Product Test

MiniAir 2 is a single-path signalling solution that utilises a 4G/LTE-M path to signal an alarm from the protected premises to an ARC. It comes with a standby SIM as a backup to safeguard the system, if the active SIM fails. Both SIMs operate on an independent network from the other for total resilience. ​It is designed for both residential and commercial premises as an affordable upgrade from a digital communicator to secure signalling.

What’s in the box?

  • MiniAir 2 unit
  • White flat-bar aerial
  • Quick guide and Instruction manual
  • “Protected by DualCom” window sticker

Getting started

Provided with the MiniAir 2 is a quick instruction guide that provides detail on how to connect the unit to a system in multiple different ways. The paper handout is also easily found on CSL DualCom’s website under the associated product.

The unit is constructed of a hard plastic material and is pre-installed with a fixed fly lead for easier installation. The product is more than suitable for any in-panel installation.

The unit can be set up to suite most applications where signalling is required. The device was easily set-up on the modern control panels it was tested on, as well as the older, legacy systems. The device is able to be set up easily by one of the following methods:

  • Connected directly to the panels digi-modem
  • Dial Capture
  • Connected to an armed status output – typically a bell output

The device can also be easily configured for a remote arm and disarm and connected to the end user application.

Performance

The overall performance of the device works well. The device was quick to respond when connected directly to the systems digi-modem or set up for dial capture, but short delays where experienced when trying to carry out a remote arm/disarm using a keyswitch zone.

Conclusion

As the UK are currently undergoing a digital change over, replacing the existing analogue infrastructure for an “All IP” one, PSTN lines up and down the country are being affected – this device is fit for purpose to help adapt older systems and legacy systems to the change, as well as being used for new installation. It is a very good, quick solution to ensuring that your premises have protection.

The product overall is great. It is a perfect solution to the PSTN switch over/off as it means that existing systems that rely solely on PSTN signalling can continue to do so without the expense of upgrading the customers control equipment.

Pros:

  • Small and compact
  • Quick and easy to install
  • User app
  • Dual system compatibility

Cons:

  • Functionality is limited compared to the other Pro range
  • Signal transmission paths, not able to be connected to an IP network
  • Require a good understanding of how systems operate and are programmed

 

PSI Test Score: 9.0 out of 10