The Edwards EC-100R comprises a transmitter and receiver in a single enclosure and is usually installed between 19 inches and 24 inches below the ceiling. The transmitter emits an invisible infrared light beam that is reflected via a prism mounted directly opposite and with a clear line of sight. Also, the reflected infrared light is detected by the receiver and analyzed. Smoke in the beam path will reduce the received infrared light proportionally to the density of the smoke. The detector analyzes this attenuation or obscuration of light and acts accordingly. Besides, detectors are typically mounted within ±30 feet (9.14 m) of a potential fire source.
In general, the Edwards EC-100R detectors should be mounted between 160 and 330 feet (48.8 and 100.6 m) from a group of four reflectors.