SAX-6 Area Alarm

Medical Gas Pipeline Area Alarm System

Features

The SAX-6 Area Alarm is a digitally controlled medical gas monitoring system designed to provide accurate and dependable monitoring of pipeline pressures within clinical environments.

• Monitors up to 6 gases using pressure switches
• Continuous real-time digital pressure monitoring
• High- and low-pressure alarm indication (low only for vacuum)
• Clear LED backlit digital display
• Individual gas identification windows
• Audible and visual alarm indication
• Alarm mute function with automatic reset
• Internal system fault monitoring
• Modular PCB design for ease of servicing
• Fully HTM 02-01 compliant

The SAX-6 combines modern electronics with proven alarm principles to deliver reliable ward-level monitoring while maintaining compatibility with established medical gas systems.

Since its introduction 20 years ago, the SAX-6 Area Alarm has been re-issued, where each revision has maintained PCB compatibility with previous versions, ensuring continuity for installed systems.

With over 25,000 units installed worldwide, the SAX-6 is widely recognised alarm in ward-level gas monitoring. Shire Controls continues to manufacture and support the SAX-6 with no plans to de-list the product.

Application

The SAX-6 Area Alarm is used to monitor medical gas pipeline pressures within wards, theatres and clinical areas.

Pressure switches are installed downstream of the final AVSU and monitor:

• High pressure
• Low pressure
• Vacuum (low pressure only)

The system continuously evaluates measured pressure against preset alarm thresholds.

A deviation from normal operating limits will result in:

• A red visual alarm indication
• Activation of the audible alarm

The audible alarm may be temporarily muted. If the fault condition persists, the audible alarm will automatically re-sound in accordance with HTM requirements.

Connection

The SAX-6 is designed to operate with pressure switches installed downstream of the final AVSU.

All pressure switches are connected to the SAX-6 Transmitter with a 2-core (+, -) for each condition.

A screened 3-core cable is run from the SAX-6 transmitter to the alarm panel.

Connections comprise:

• +5vdc
• Signal Positive
• Common reference

The panel continuously monitors incoming signals and internal circuitry.

Optional connections may include:

• Common fault relay output
• Connection to repeater panels (where required)

All cable screens must be earthed in accordance with HTM guidance.

Installation Requirements

Installation must be carried out by competent personnel in accordance with HTM 02-01 and local regulations.

Electrical Supply

• 230V AC supply
• Fused at 3 amps
• Fed from the essential (emergency) supply

Signal Cabling

• Screened cable from each pressure transducer
• Cable specification in accordance with installation guidelines
• All cable screens must be earthed at BOTH ends

Optional Equipment

• Repeater panels
• Common fault relay connection

Equipment Warranty

Standard Warranty
Alarms returned to our works which have failed due to faulty parts or manufacture will be repaired or replaced without charge for parts and labour.

10-Year Compatibility Warranty
Install the SAX-6 with confidence. Equipment will remain available to modify or extend the system for at least 10 years from installation.

Compliance

HTM 02-01 ✔
ISO 13485 ✔
EN ISO 7396-1 ✔
IEC 62304 (Class A) ✔
UK MDR / EU MDR ✔