The Edwards 260097 is a programming cable used to connect a PC to Edwards / Kidde Commercial fire alarm panel CPUs for configuration, upload, and download. First, this is a 4-conductor RS-232 cable with a DB9 female connector on one end and bare flying leads on the other. Specifically, the flying-leads end terminates directly to the panel CPU’s programming header. Therefore, the cable serves as the physical link between SDU (System Definition Utility) running on a PC and the panel itself.
What the Edwards 260097 programming cable does
This cable carries RS-232 serial traffic between a PC’s COM port (or USB-to-serial adapter) and the panel’s programming port. As a result, technicians can upload new site configurations, download as-built programming, and recover from SDU communication faults. In addition, the 4-wire layout supports the basic RS-232 RxD / TxD / GND / SGND lines that EST3, EST3X, and related Edwards panels expect at the SA-232 interface.
Verified specs
- Function: PC-to-panel RS-232 programming cable
- Connector A: DB9 female
- Connector B: bare flying leads
- Conductors: 4-wire RS-232
- Compatibility: Edwards / EST3 / EST3X panels via the SA-232 interface (and other Edwards panels with a 4-wire RS-232 programming header)
- Brand: sold as Edwards Signaling 260097; also distributed under the Kidde Commercial label since the brand reorganization
When to use the 260097
Specifically, technicians reach for this cable when uploading new site configurations from the SDU PC tool to a panel, downloading as-built programming, or recovering from a ‘lost communication’ fault on the SA-232 link. Therefore, every commissioning kit for Edwards conventional and intelligent panels typically includes one. As a result, replacement / spare units are commonly stocked at the regional tech inventory level.
What this cable is NOT
However, the 260097 is not a generic USB cable, a CAT5 patch cable, or a panel network cable. Furthermore, it does not carry any agency listings — listings apply at the panel level once programmed. Therefore, if the PC has no native COM port, also plan for a quality USB-to-RS-232 adapter.
Need help selecting the right Edwards part? Call Life Safety Consultants at 1-888-557-0558 or email sales@lifesafetycom.com. Our team specializes in fire alarm and industrial signaling replacement parts.
Additional information
| Weight | 0.8 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 12.5 × 4.5 × 3.5 in |
| Condition | New |
| Manufacturers | Edwards |
| Part Type | Pull Station |
