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Mar 3, 2021 · A Guide to Fire Alarm Basics | NFPA. A visual guide and discussion on the major components of a fire alarm system.
Aug 13, 2023 · The fire alarm control panel, also referred to as the fire alarm control unit, is the central command hub of a fire alarm system. It serves as the system’s brain, overseeing the entire network of detectors and sensors distributed throughout the building. Responsible for processing incoming signals, the control panel monitors the environment ...
Aug 7, 2020 · The fire alarm panel is connected to the system’s initiating devices through either 2- or 4-wire circuits. This circuitry allows the control panel to monitor the state of its initiating devices, usually by zones, identifying whether the devices are in normal or alarm mode. The control panel shows these readings on its display panel.
- Fire Alarm Control Panel. The fire alarm control panel, commonly abbreviated as FACU, is the system’s “brain.” It receives messages from the initiating devices, also known as inputs, and performs the following functions.
- Initiation Devices. Initiation devices initiate alarms, and, just like alarm panels, they can be either addressable or non-addressable. Some initiation devices, like water flow switches, are traditionally non-addressable, but connect with addressable modules.
- Pull Stations. A pull station is probably the fire alarm system component you’re most familiar with. It’s a manually operated device that initiates an alarm signal when someone pulls its handle.
- Smoke Detectors. A smoke detector is a device that initiates an alarm signal when it senses smoke. There are two classifications of these devices, depending on the type of sensor they use to detect smoke particles.
- Fire Detection
- Occupant Notification
- Control Functions
- Fire Department Notification
Most of us are familiar with smoke and heat detectors because these devices are installed in our homes. Detecting a fire is typically accomplished by installing smoke and/or heat detectors, manual pull stations and automatic sprinkler system water flow switches. Another important component of a fire alarm system is a water flow switch that detects ...
When it comes to warning building occupants of a fire, you need both audible and visible alarms. Audible alarms include horns (the appliance that produces that loud and very annoying sound) or speakers that play a pre-recorded message and/or allow emergency responders to provide spoken instructions to the occupants. Visual notification appliances, ...
There are many different types of control functions that the components of a basic fire alarm system perform. The activation of a duct mounted smoke detector will shut down the heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment to prevent the migration of smoke to non-affected areas of the building. A smoke detector in an elevator lobby will...
The codes require that fire alarm signals be automatically transmitted directly to the local fire department, or to a central station monitoring service, notifying the fire department of the emergency. This gives the fire department a signal immediately and allows them the opportunity to extinguish the fire before it gets too big. Overall, the fire...
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Sep 4, 2018 · Fire alarm control panels may connect many devices, and addressable panels are designed to manage them. In NFPA 72: National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, the National Fire Protection Association provides a broad definition of these devices, known in this code as a fire alarm control unit (FACU). From the 2016 edition of NFPA 72.
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What is a fire alarm system?
On a high level, the fundamental purpose of a fire alarm system is to perform the following functions. Provide indication and warning of abnormal fire conditions. Alert the building occupants. Summon aid in adequate time to allow for occupants to travel to a safe place. Integrate into a life safety plan combining:
