Firehouse Labs met with SoundOff Signal to review the latest in their fire and EMS product line, the mpower® 9x7 Scene Light. The company, which has been in operation since 1992, offers a wide array of lightbars, control systems, speakers, sirens, directional warning lights and work-area lighting. The latest addition to their fire and EMS lineup, the mpower® 9x7 Scene Light offers unique features that we found to be extremely useful to the fire service.
The basics
The light conforms with NFPA standards and offers three mounting options: stud, screw or a legacy hardware kit to adapt the screw mount for standard mounting holes on a retrofit. It measures 10.4 inches (L) x 8.6 inches (H) x 1.3 inches (D) with a chrome or black bezel or 9.1 inches (L) x 7.3 inches (H) x 1.3 (D) without the bezel. The lights are white LEDs and can operate in temperatures ranging from -40 degrees Fahrenheit to 185 degrees F, with dimming and low power mode compatibility. Additionally, SoundOff Signal offers a five-year warranty.
The review
When reviewing the product, a few points stood out about the mpower® 9x7 Scene Light. First, the light itself is extremely low profile, which allowed it to be placed in various locations around the demo vehicle without blocking out any important elements. The LEDs are extremely bright, measuring just under 8,600 lumens, which throws much more light than the average headlight, which generally measures between 700–1,200 lumens. The light is visible nearly 500 feet away, with an effective range of just over 250 feet away. Looking at the light, you can see the lens optics are arranged to spread the light over the area effectively; however, the most interesting feature isn’t something you can tell by just looking at the light.
Upon closer inspection, you will find something that is truly unique in this product line—and effective for fire apparatus. The lens itself is not the typical hard polycarbonate cover but, rather, a flexible and completely clear silicone. While the company has traditional lens options available, the silicone lens offers several benefits. The lens, optics and weather seals are all one piece, which aids in reducing issues with the lights caused by improper sealing. The flexible lens makes it ideal for areas where tools, ladders or other objects may accidentally come in contact with the light. Silicone is resistant to UV discoloration, and, according to the manufacturer, UV light helps keep the lens clear. Finally, the manufacturing process for the silicone lens does not create issues with the optics, which ensures a consistent light pattern.
The mpower® 9x7 Scene Light can be used for new builds or added during a retrofit process, which are aided by the versatile mounting options available.
The company said the few issues that they have encountered were due to installation errors. If you review the installation instructions, there is a warning to prevent that issue.
Care & maintenance
For cleaning and care, avoid any window cleaners or harsh chemicals, relying on mild soapy water to keep the lenses clean. While the directions say to use a soft cotton cloth, discussions with current customers say they use a truck brush without any issues or scratching of the lenses. When asked about the potential for thermal damage to the lenses, the company said that the silicone is extremely durable and resistant to the conditions that fire apparatus and ambulances are routinely dispatched to.
Overall, the mpower® 9x7 Scene Light is bright, covers a wide area, has a low profile, meets the NFPA standards, and has an innovative lens, making it a great addition to your scene lighting solution. earning the Firehouse Labs seal of approval!
