As facilities expand and technology evolves, upgrading legacy fire and life safety systems is essential for optimal performance, compliance, and safety. The Edwards EST3 system has been a reliable solution for decades, but as it approaches the end of its lifecycle, sourcing and maintaining key components is becoming more challenging. Transitioning to EST4 not only addresses these issues but also positions organizations to adopt future technological advancements.
Convergint facilitates this transition with a comprehensive and cost-effective approach, focusing on:
- Maximizing System Performance: Enhancing efficiency and functionality.
- Scalability: Supporting larger, more complex installations.
- Ease of Integration: Seamlessly connecting with modern building management systems.
By partnering with Convergint, organizations can mitigate risks associated with outdated systems while benefiting from EST4’s advanced capabilities.
Key advantages of upgrading to EST4
Enhanced network capacity
EST4 supports larger installations through faster data transmission and improved capacity, ideal for expanding facilities. While EST3 is capable, it may struggle in high-demand environments.
Improved user interface
Featuring a modern, intuitive user interface, EST4 simplifies system management, alarm monitoring, and device control for operators. The transition from the EST3 interface is seamless, making navigation straightforward.
Advanced diagnostics
With sophisticated diagnostic tools, EST4 enables technicians to identify and resolve issues efficiently, reducing downtime. EST3 lacks these advanced troubleshooting features, making EST4 the superior choice for system maintenance.
Increased resiliency and redundancy
The implementation of EST4 improves system resiliency, offering enhanced redundancy for continuous operation during component failures. While reliable, EST3 does not match the level of redundancy provided by EST4.
Expanded integration options
Designed with open architecture, EST4 is compatible with modern building management and security platforms, simplifying integration. In contrast, EST3 may require additional hardware or software for seamless operation with newer systems.
Future-readiness
Upgrading to EST4 prepares fire and life safety systems for long-term compliance with evolving industry standards. Although EST3 will be supported until its planned end-of-life in December 2026, EST4 offers extended support and updates for years to come.
Advanced audio capabilities
EST4 includes enhanced audio capabilities for clear and flexible emergency communication, particularly valuable for evacuation instructions and critical messaging. EST3, while reliable, does not offer the same advanced audio features.
Energy-efficient design
Incorporating energy-efficient components, EST4 aligns with modern sustainability goals and reduces the environmental impact of fire and life safety systems. In comparison, EST3 follows older design principles with less focus on energy conservation.
Improved security features
EST4 implements updated security protocols, including encrypted communications, enhancing protection against modern cyber threats. While effective, EST3’s security features are not as robust in addressing current digital vulnerabilities.
Key considerations for the upgrade
Seamless transition with Convergint
Convergint simplifies the upgrade process from Edwards EST3 to EST4 by allowing many existing field devices and panel components to be reused, minimizing costs and disruptions. EST4’s high-speed Ethernet connectivity, integrated notification features, and reduced cabling requirements create an efficient, future-ready system.
Organizations can enhance the performance and reliability of their fire and life safety systems by transitioning to EST4 with guidance from Convergint.
Effective security and safety is a multi-layered approach involving people, processes, and technologies. Convergint-provided products and services are only one part of this multi-layered approach, will not detect or prevent all threats or solve every risk, and should not be your sole method of security or safety. Please see the “IMPORTANT PRODUCT SAFETY AND SERVICE INFORMATION” documentation, available at convergint.com/terms, prior to using a Convergint-installed system.
