Overview
D+H VCD chain drives are compact electric window drives for compatible awning windows, casement windows, skylights, roof windows and high-level windows.
The VCD range includes 24 V DC, 230 V AC and ACB-capable options with 250 mm and 350 mm strokes. The compact drive format makes VCD suitable for natural ventilation and general window automation where a smaller chain drive is preferred.
EBSA can assist with selecting the appropriate VCD model, stroke, controller and bracket arrangement to suit the window profile, opening geometry, wiring strategy and required operating functions.
VCD range at a glance
| Product type | Compact electric chain drive |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | D+H Mechatronic |
| Models covered | VCD 203 and VCD 204 models |
| Typical applications | Natural ventilation and general window automation |
| Window types | Compatible awning windows, casement windows, skylights, roof windows and high-level windows |
| Power and control options | 24 V DC, 230 V AC, PLP and ACB-capable configurations depending on model |
| Force | 200 N pressure force and 200 N tensile force |
| Available strokes | 250 mm for VCD 203 models; 250 mm and 350 mm for VCD 204 models |
| Sound level | LpA ≤ 46 dB(A) |
| Protection rating | IP 30 |
| Control requirements | Compatible controller, field cabling, switching or sensor inputs, and project-specific setup |
Models and configurations
| Product code | Supply and control technology | Stroke | Product data |
|---|---|---|---|
| VCD 203/250 | 24 V DC PLP | 250 mm | Download datasheet |
| VCD-0203-0250-1-ACB | 24 V DC ACB | 250 mm | Download datasheet |
| VCD 204/250 | 24 V DC PLP | 250 mm | Download datasheet |
| VCD 204/350 | 24 V DC PLP | 350 mm | Download datasheet |
| VCD-0204-0250-1-ACB | 24 V DC ACB | 250 mm | Download datasheet |
| VCD-0204-0350-1-ACB | 24 V DC ACB | 350 mm | Download datasheet |
| VCD 204/250-K | 230 V AC | 250 mm | Download datasheet |
| VCD 204/350-K | 230 V AC | 350 mm | Download datasheet |
| VCD-0204-0250-5-ACB | 230 V AC ACB | 250 mm | Download datasheet |
| VCD-0204-0350-5-ACB | 230 V AC ACB | 350 mm | Download datasheet |
VCD 203 and VCD 204
VCD 203 is the more compact drive format and is available with a 250 mm stroke.
VCD 204 uses a longer drive body with a centred chain outlet and chain stabilisation. It is available with either a 250 mm or 350 mm stroke.
The correct model should be selected according to the available mounting space, required opening, sash geometry, power supply, control system and bracket arrangement.
Typical applications
- Awning window automation.
- Casement window automation.
- Skylight and roof window operation.
- High-level windows that are difficult to operate manually.
- Residential and light commercial natural ventilation.
- Schools, childcare centres, offices and community buildings.
- Simple local or automated window-opening systems.
Drive and control system selection
The VCD drive provides the mechanical opening and closing movement. The selected controller determines how the window responds to wall switches, sensors, timers or other control inputs.
For applications requiring rain sensors, temperature control, lockout functions, programmed operation or integration with other building systems, a 24 V DC control arrangement will generally provide greater flexibility than a simple 230 V AC installation.
ACB-capable VCD models can provide digital communication, configuration and feedback when used with a compatible D+H ACB control system. When an ACB-capable drive is connected to a conventional controller, the additional digital communication functions are not used.
VCD selection should be coordinated with:
- Window type, sash size, sash weight and opening geometry.
- Required opening distance and opening angle.
- Available 250 mm or 350 mm stroke.
- 24 V DC or 230 V AC power supply.
- Required control and sensor functions.
- Controller capacity and compatibility.
- Bracket selection and fixing position.
- Field cabling and cable routes.
- Installation and maintenance access.
Bracket arrangements
VCD chain drives use a sash bracket to connect the chain to the opening sash and a frame bracket to mount the drive to the window frame.
EBSA selects the bracket arrangement to suit the window profile, available fixing points and opening geometry. Standard D+H brackets are used where appropriate, while project-specific brackets can be developed for commercial window suites where a closer fit is required.
EBSA can identify the appropriate bracket arrangement from window drawings, profile details or site information.
Compatible system components
Depending on the project, VCD chain drives may be used with:
- Compatible natural ventilation controllers.
- Wall switches and local control points.
- Room temperature controls.
- Rain and weather sensors.
- Timers and lockout functions supported by the selected controller.
- BMS or third-party interfaces supported by the selected control system.
- D+H drive brackets and installation accessories.
Downloads
Select the installation instructions that match the drive model, power supply and control technology.
| Drive type | Applies to | Installation instructions |
|---|---|---|
| VCD 203/250 | 24 V DC VCD 203 PLP models | VCD 203 PLP instructions |
| VCD-0203-0250-1-ACB | 24 V DC ACB VCD 203 models | VCD 0203 ACB instructions |
| VCD 204/250 and VCD 204/350 | 24 V DC VCD 204 PLP models | VCD 204 PLP instructions |
| VCD-0204-1-ACB | 24 V DC ACB VCD 204 models | VCD 0204 ACB instructions |
| VCD 204-K | 230 V AC VCD 204-K models | VCD 204 230 V instructions |
| VCD-0204-5-ACB | 230 V AC ACB VCD 204 models | VCD 0204 230 V ACB instructions |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between VCD 203 and VCD 204?
VCD 203 is the more compact model and is available with a 250 mm stroke. VCD 204 uses a longer body with a centred chain outlet and chain stabilisation and is available with either a 250 mm or 350 mm stroke.
The correct model depends on the available mounting space, required opening, sash geometry and bracket arrangement.
Should I use a 24 V DC or 230 V AC VCD chain drive?
A 24 V DC VCD system is generally the preferred option where sensors, timers, automatic ventilation controls, lockout functions or building-system integration are required.
A 230 V AC VCD drive is better suited to straightforward local operation, such as opening and closing the window from a wall switch. More advanced control functions may require additional equipment or may be better achieved using a 24 V DC control system.
What is the difference between PLP and ACB VCD drives?
PLP models provide conventional reverse-polarity drive operation using a compatible controller.
ACB models can also operate with reverse-polarity control, while adding digital communication, configuration and feedback functions when connected to a compatible D+H ACB control system.
Can a VCD chain drive be used with a rain sensor or other automation controls?
Yes. A VCD chain drive can be used with rain sensors, temperature controls, timers, wall switches, BMS interfaces and other automation functions where these are supported by the selected controller.
VCD drives can also be used with EBSA control platforms such as CPS-M, allowing the same broader control functions available across other compatible D+H drive families. The drive model, controller and operating strategy simply need to be coordinated as one system.
How is the correct VCD stroke selected?
VCD 203 is available with a 250 mm stroke. VCD 204 is available with either a 250 mm or 350 mm stroke.
The selected stroke should provide the required window opening while remaining suitable for the hinge position, sash geometry, bracket position and available clearance.
Can the VCD opening stroke be reduced?
The operating stroke may be reduced where the selected drive and control technology support stroke programming or travel limitation.
The required opening should be determined from the window geometry and project requirements before the drive is configured.
Which brackets are required for a VCD chain drive?
The bracket arrangement depends on the window profile and opening configuration. A sash bracket connects the chain to the opening sash, while a frame bracket secures the drive body to the window frame.
EBSA can select the bracket arrangement from the window drawings, profile details or site information. Standard or project-specific brackets may be used depending on the glazing suite.
When should a CDC chain drive be selected instead of a VCD?
CDC may be selected where the project requires a low-noise compact drive, longer stroke options, synchronised arrangements or use within a smoke control system.
VCD remains well suited to compact natural ventilation and general window automation applications where its available force and stroke range match the window.
Compare other drive families
- CDC Chain Drives: compact, low-noise drives with longer stroke and additional synchronisation options.
- KA Chain Drives: higher-force chain drives for larger and more demanding window applications.
- CDM Chain Drives: compact high-force drives for heavier windows and roof openings.
- CDP Chain Drives: high-capacity drives for large openings and long-stroke applications.
- Rack & Pinion Drives: robust linear drives for applications better suited to rack and pinion operation.
VCD chain drive selection support
VCD drive selection depends on the window type, opening geometry, required stroke, power supply, control method, bracket arrangement and field wiring. EBSA can assist with selecting and coordinating the VCD drive, controller, accessories and installation requirements for the project.
