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What replaces the EL-IO phase monitor interface — N-IO or N-IO-L?

Both the N-IO and the N-IO-L interfaces can replace the original EL-IO's, they both have 4 inputs and 2 outputs, they are now addressed with the TCH-B200 programmer and the N-PROG cable instead of DIL switches.

Direct answer

The EL-IO FIREscape phase monitor interface (also written EL-I/O) can be replaced by either the N-IO-L (large enclosure) or the N-IO (small enclosure). Both replacement units are intended for the FIREscape Nepto system; Hochiki states that FIREscape Nepto is backwards compatible with panels and devices from the earlier FIREscape range, but confirm with Hochiki Europe Technical Support that your existing EL-2 panel and firmware will accept the N-IO variant before ordering. Addressing uses a programmer and N-PROG cable rather than DIP switches.

Applies to

  • Products / Models: EL-IO (original), N-IO-L (replacement, large enclosure), N-IO (replacement, small enclosure), N-PROG cable (addressing lead), TCH-B200 (addressing programmer)
  • Firmware / Version: Not applicable
  • Region: UK / Europe
  • Standards: BS 5266-1 (emergency lighting code of practice); BS EN 50172 / BS 5266-8 (emergency escape lighting systems); BS EN 62034 (automatic test systems for battery powered emergency escape lighting), where the system's self-test function is relied upon.
Compatibility and Replacement Options
  • Original device: EL-IO FIREscape phase monitor interface (108 × 108 × 32 mm, 20–40 V DC).
  • Replacement devices (superseding EL-IO; intended for the FIREscape Nepto system):
    • N-IO-L (large enclosure): 130 × 130 × 75 mm, IP20, 20–40 V DC
    • N-IO (small enclosure): 120 × 66 × 32.5 mm, 20–40 V DC
  • Both the original EL-IO and the N-IO replacements provide 4 inputs and 2 outputs, and a maximum of 16 units may be connected to one panel. The EL-IO address was set with on-board DIL switches; the N-IO replacements are addressed with a programmer instead.

Addressing and Configuration

  • The N-IO-L and N-IO is addressed with the TCH-B200 programmer together with the N-PROG cable. 
  • DIP switches are not used for addressing either replacement unit.
  • Addressing also requires the N-PROG cable. 
  • NOTE: the PL-2 and PL-3 leads listed with the TCH-B200 are for ESP (FIRE) loop devices. you will need to order the N-PROG cable separately.
When to contact technical support

Contact Hochiki Europe Technical Support to confirm the current replacement part for your specific EL-IO installation.

Safety note

This article is general guidance for Hochiki Europe products. Design, installation, commissioning, maintenance and modification of fire detection and alarm systems should be carried out by, or under the responsibility of, a competent person in accordance with the applicable standards (for example BS 5266-1 in the UK). Statutory requirements imposed by the relevant enforcing authority also apply. Always refer to the current product manual and data sheet for the exact model before carrying out any work.

References

Last reviewed: 2026-10-23 — Reviewed by: Hochiki Europe Technical Support