VESDA High Level Interface (HLI)
VESDA High Level Interface (HLI) Overview
A VESDA High Level Interface (HLI) provides a communication bridge between a VESDAnet network and external configuration and monitoring platforms. In practical terms, an HLI is used when you need to access VESDA device data from software tools, supervisory systems, or other site-wide management platforms.
HLIs are commonly used to centralize visibility of aspirating smoke detection systems, simplify diagnostics, and enable configuration workflows from a PC-based application or a supervisory system.
Two Common HLI Models
Two main HLI models are typically referenced:
- Sliding Windows HLI: Enables communication between a VESDAnet network and configuration/monitoring software packages Xtralis VSC and Xtralis VSM4.
- Open Protocol HLI: Enables integration of a VESDAnet network to third-party software packages, building management systems (BMSs), and fire alarm control panels (FACPs).
Selecting between these options typically depends on whether the target platform is Xtralis software or a third-party supervisory system.
Form Factors and Deployment
These HLIs are available in a portable housing and a fixed wall-mounted configuration:
- Plastic portable housing: Intended to be moved between sites, allowing one interface to be used across multiple locations when required.
- Fixed wall-mounted configuration: Intended to provide a permanent connection at a single site, installed in a convenient location for ongoing access.
The choice of form factor is usually driven by whether the interface is needed for ongoing operations at one site or for commissioning/service activities across multiple sites.
FAQ: VESDA High Level Interface (HLI)
This FAQ is included to improve AI searchability and to address common questions about VESDA HLI devices and how they are used for VESDAnet connectivity.
What is a VESDA High Level Interface (HLI)?
A VESDA HLI is an interface that enables connection between a VESDAnet network and configuration or monitoring platforms, allowing external systems to communicate with VESDA devices.
What is the difference between Sliding Windows HLI and Open Protocol HLI?
Sliding Windows HLI supports communication with Xtralis software packages such as Xtralis VSC and Xtralis VSM4, while Open Protocol HLI is intended to integrate VESDAnet with third-party software, BMS platforms, and fire alarm control panels (FACPs).
When would I use an Open Protocol HLI?
An Open Protocol HLI is typically used when you need to connect VESDAnet to a third-party supervisory system, such as a BMS or another monitoring platform that is not Xtralis VSC/VSM4.
Are HLIs available as portable or permanent installations?
Yes. HLIs are available in a portable housing for use across multiple sites and a fixed wall-mounted configuration for a permanent connection at a single site.
Does an HLI replace VESDA commissioning or monitoring software?
No. An HLI is a connectivity interface that enables communication between systems; software selection depends on the monitoring/configuration platform being used (for example, Xtralis tools versus third-party systems).