Description
Overview
Dynamic self-checking flame detector use with R7861 Dynamic Self-check Amplifiers for sensing the ultraviolet radiation generated by the combustion of gas, oil, or other fuels.
Features
- Oscillating shutter interrupts ultraviolet radiation reaching the UV sensor to provide the UV sensor tube checking function.
- Can be mounted horizontally, vertically or at any angle in between.
- The detector requires faceplate alignment and has integral locating reference points to assure proper operation of the shutter mechanism.
- Field replaceable ultraviolet sensing tube and quartz viewing window.
- Models with threaded conduit fitting and color-coded leadwires allow rapid electrical installation.
- C7061A1038 or A1046 5 pin Brad Harrison type (formally 41307N) mating connector not supplied nor available through Honeywell.
- Two detectors can be wired in parallel to reduce nuisance shutdowns in difficult flame sighting applications.
- Protective heat block built into mounting flange.
- -40 F (-40 C) rated ultraviolet sensing tube is supplied.
- C7061E meets NEMA 4 standards with viewing window rated to 20 psi.
- C7061F has an explosion-proof housing for use in hazardous atmospheres with a viewing window rated to 100 psi.
The Honeywell C7061A1053 is a dynamic self-checking ultraviolet (UV) flame detector — commonly known as the "Purple Peeper" — designed for use exclusively with Honeywell R7861 Dynamic Self-Check Amplifiers. Unlike passive UV detectors such as the C7035 Minipeeper, the C7061A incorporates an oscillating mechanical shutter that actively interrupts UV radiation reaching the sensing tube approximately 12 times per minute, allowing the amplifier and detector circuitry to be continuously verified during burner operation. If any component fails the self-check, the burner is automatically shut down.
This is the direct replacement for the C7061A1012, upgraded from a ¾-inch NPT mounting to a 1-inch NPT mounting. Buyers replacing a C7061A1012 should note this mounting difference before installation (see Important Notes below).
Key Features
- Dynamic self-checking operation — oscillating shutter interrupts UV signal ~12 times per minute; amplifier circuitry verifies both the amplifier and detector components on every cycle, providing continuous functional monitoring that passive UV sensors cannot offer
- Purple Peeper designation — this is the self-checking UV detector family; requires the R7861 amplifier, which is not interchangeable with standard UV amplifiers used with the C7027/C7035 Minipeeper series
- 1-inch NPT mounting — mounts directly to 1-inch NPT threaded fitting; replaces the ¾-inch mounting of the C7061A1012
- 96-inch (8 ft) color-coded leadwires — for rapid electrical installation; threaded conduit fitting included
- Universal mounting orientation — can be installed horizontally, vertically, or at any angle; faceplate alignment with integral locating reference points required to ensure proper shutter mechanism operation
- Field-replaceable UV sensing tube and quartz viewing window — both components can be replaced in the field without removing the detector body; replacement UV tube part no. 129464M
- Protective heat block — built into the mounting flange to shield detector electronics from combustion heat
- -40°F rated UV sensing tube — supplied standard; suitable for cold-start and outdoor installations
- Parallel wiring capable — two detectors can be wired in parallel to reduce nuisance shutdowns in difficult flame-sighting applications
- 120 VAC operation — for 200/220/240 VAC applications, a minimum 120 VAC / 10 VA step-down transformer is required to power the shutter mechanism (not included)
Specifications
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Detection Method | Ultraviolet (UV), dynamic self-checking |
| Supply Voltage | 120 VAC, 50/60 Hz |
| Mounting | 1-inch NPT |
| Lead Length | 96 inches (8 ft), color-coded |
| Ambient Temperature Range | -40°F to 175°F (-40°C to +79°C) |
| Enclosure Rating | NEMA 4 |
| Self-Check Frequency | ~12 times per minute |
| Replacement UV Tube | 129464M |
| Viewing Window | Quartz (field-replaceable) |
| Fuel Types | Gas, oil, and other combustion fuels |
| UPC | 085267262224 |
Required Amplifier
The C7061A1053 requires the R7861 Dynamic Self-Check Amplifier. This amplifier is not the same as the R7849 or R7861 standard UV amplifiers used with the C7027/C7035 Minipeeper series. The R7861 contains the circuitry that interprets the shutter-modulated signal and performs the dynamic self-check verification. The detector will not function correctly with any other amplifier.
Replaces / Compatible With
The C7061A1053 is the current production replacement for the following discontinued models:
- C7061A1012 (direct predecessor — ¾" NPT mounting; see note below)
- C7061A1020
- C7961F1004
- C7012A1152, C7012A1160, C7012A1145
- C7012E1104, C7012E1112, C7012E1120, C7012E1161, C7012E1278, C7012E1245 (when replacing C7012 models, the R7861 amplifier must also be replaced — C7012 models used a different amplifier)
C7061A vs. C7035 Minipeeper — Key Differences
These are two distinct UV detector families that are not interchangeable:
| Feature | C7061A1053 (Purple Peeper) | C7035A1023 (Minipeeper) |
|---|---|---|
| Self-checking | ✅ Dynamic shutter-based | ❌ Passive (no self-check) |
| Required amplifier | R7861 only | R7849, R7851, R7249, others |
| Mounting | 1" NPT direct | 1" sighting pipe collar |
| UV tube check | Continuous (~12x/min) | None |
| Temp range | -40°F to 175°F | 0°F to 250°F |
| Typical application | Higher safety-class systems requiring continuous self-monitoring | Standard commercial/industrial flame safeguard |
Common Applications
The C7061A1053 is used in commercial boilers, industrial process burners, and combustion equipment where continuous self-monitoring of flame detection circuitry is required by code, insurance underwriters, or system design. It is particularly common in applications governed by Factory Mutual (FM), IRI/Swiss Re, or other industrial risk standards that require dynamic self-check capability. It is used with any 7800 Series relay module that accepts the R7861 amplifier.
Important Notes
- Mounting difference vs. C7061A1012: The C7061A1012 used a ¾-inch NPT fitting; the C7061A1053 uses a 1-inch NPT fitting. When replacing a C7061A1012 in an existing installation, a ¾-inch to 1-inch bushing adapter will likely be required at the mounting point
- Faceplate alignment is mandatory — the shutter mechanism will not operate correctly if the detector is not properly aligned using the integral locating reference points; misalignment will cause nuisance shutdowns or failed self-check
- R7861 amplifier required — this detector will not work with any other amplifier; verify amplifier model before ordering
- 220/240V applications: A 120 VAC / 10 VA minimum step-down transformer is required to power the shutter if used with an R7861A series 1 or higher on a 200-240V supply
- Not weather-tight — protect from direct water exposure unless using C7061E (NEMA 4, 20 psi viewing window) or C7061F (explosion-proof, 100 psi viewing window) variants