NEMA SB 2-2016 Training Manual On FA Systems PDF

NEMA Standards Publication SB 2-2016
Training Manual on Fire Alarm Systems
Published by:
National Electrical Manufacturers Association

1300 North 17th Street, Suite 900
Rosslyn, Virginia 22209
www.nema.org
© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association. All rights, including translation into other
languages, reserved under the Universal Copyright Convention, the Berne Convention for the Protection
of Literary and Artistic Works, and the International and Pan American copyright conventions.
NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER
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The National Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) standards and guideline publications, of
which the document contained herein is one, are developed through a voluntary consensus
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CONTENTS
Section 1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Scope ...................................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Referenced Standards ............................................................................................................ 1
1.3 General Definitions .................................................................................................................. 1
Section 2 Basic Fire Alarm Systems ........................................................................................................... 16
2.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 16
2.2 Control Unit............................................................................................................................ 16
2.3 Notification Methods .............................................................................................................. 17
2.3.1 Non-coded System............................................................................................................ 17
2.3.2 Zoned Non-coded System ................................................................................................ 17
2.3.3 Coded System................................................................................................................... 17
2.3.4 Master Coded System ...................................................................................................... 18
2.3.5 March-Time Coded System .............................................................................................. 18
2.3.6 Selective Coded System ................................................................................................... 18
2.3.7 Temporal Code 3 Pattern .................................................................................................. 18
2.3.8 Zoned Coded System ....................................................................................................... 18
2.4 Emergency Communication Systems (ECS) ........................................................................ 19
2.5 Control Unit Operation........................................................................................................... 19
2.6 Circuits and Pathways ........................................................................................................... 21
2.7 Initiating Device Circuits (IDCs)............................................................................................. 21
2.7.1 Two-Wire, Class B Circuit, using Initiating Devices and an End-Of-Line Device ............. 21
2.7.2 Four-Wire, Class A Circuit, using Initiating Devices ......................................................... 22
2.8 Notification Appliance Circuits (NACs) .................................................................................. 22
2.8.1 Two-Wire, Class B, Direct Current Notification Appliance Circuits ................................... 22
2.8.2 Two-Wire, Class B, Audio Notification Appliance Circuits ................................................ 23
2.8.3 Four-Wire, Class A, Notification Appliance Circuits .......................................................... 23
2.9 Signaling Line Circuits (SLC) ................................................................................................ 24
2.10 Power Supplies...................................................................................................................... 25
2.11 Supplementary Circuits and Devices .................................................................................... 26
2.12 Types of Control Systems ..................................................................................................... 26
2.12.1 Protected Premises (Local) Fire Alarm System (Chapter 23, NFPA 72) .......................... 26
2.12.2 Dedicated Function Fire Alarm Systems and Emergency Control Functions ................... 27
2.12.3 In-Building Fire Emergency Voice/Alarm Communications Systems (Chapter 24, NFPA
72) 28
2.12.4 Combination Systems ....................................................................................................... 28
2.12.5 Interconnected Fire Alarm Control Units ........................................................................... 29
2.12.6 Emergency Communications Systems ............................................................................. 29
2.12.7 Supervising Station Alarm Systems (Chapter 26, NFPA 72) ............................................ 32
2.12.8 Central Station Service Alarm Systems (Chapter 26, NFPA 72) ...................................... 32
2.12.9 Proprietary Supervising Station Alarm Systems (Chapter 26, NFPA 72) ......................... 33
2.12.10 Remote Supervising Station Alarm Systems (Chapter 26, NFPA 72) .............................. 33
2.12.11 Public Emergency Alarm Reporting Systems (Chapter 27, NFPA 72) ............................. 35
© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

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Section 3 Fire Alarm System Concepts ...................................................................................................... 37

3.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 37
3.2 Multiplexing or Networking .................................................................................................... 37
3.3 Circuit Interfaces (Transponders, Data Gathering Panels) ................................................... 38
3.4 Multiplexed or Networked Outputs ........................................................................................ 38
3.5 Addressability ........................................................................................................................ 40
3.6 Intelligent (Smart) Circuit Interfaces ...................................................................................... 41
3.7 Programming ......................................................................................................................... 41
3.8 Addressable Devices ............................................................................................................. 41
3.9 Multiplexing Technology ........................................................................................................ 42
3.10 Active Multiplex...................................................................................................................... 42
3.11 Digital Signaling ..................................................................................................................... 42
3.12 Analog Sensors ..................................................................................................................... 43
3.13 Intelligent Systems ................................................................................................................ 43
3.14 Displays ................................................................................................................................. 45
3.15 Digital Alarm Communicator Systems (DACS) ..................................................................... 45
Section 4 Initiating Devices ......................................................................................................................... 46
4.1 Manual and Automatic Alarm Initiating Devices .................................................................... 46
4.2 Manual Fire Alarm Boxes ...................................................................................................... 46
4.2.1 Non-Coded Fire Alarm Boxes ........................................................................................... 46
4.2.2 Coded Fire Alarm Boxes ................................................................................................... 46
4.2.3 Pre-signal Fire Alarm Boxes ............................................................................................. 46
4.2.4 General Alarm Fire Alarm Boxes ...................................................................................... 46
4.2.5 Breakglass Fire Alarm Boxes............................................................................................ 46
4.2.6 Single-action fire alarm boxes........................................................................................... 47
4.2.7 Double-action fire alarm boxes ......................................................................................... 47
4.3 Automatic Alarm Initiating Devices ........................................................................................ 48
4.3.1 Classification of Automatic Fire Detectors ........................................................................ 48
4.3.2 Heat-Sensing Fire Detectors ............................................................................................. 50
4.3.3 Smoke Sensing Fire Detectors ......................................................................................... 53
4.4 Switches On Automatic Fire Suppression Systems .............................................................. 55
4.4.1 Waterflow Switch on Sprinkler Systems ........................................................................... 55
4.4.2 Alarm Switches on Fire Suppression Systems ................................................................. 55
4.4.3 Supervisory Monitoring for Sprinkler Systems .................................................................. 55
4.4.4 Engine Driven Generator Supervision .............................................................................. 56
4.5 Installation Wiring .................................................................................................................. 56
4.6 Pathway Class—Circuit Classes. For Conventional Initiating Device Circuit (IDC) .............. 60
Section 5 Notification Appliances ................................................................................................................ 62
5.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 62
5.2 Alarm Notification Appliances................................................................................................ 62
5.3 Audible Alarm Notification Appliances .................................................................................. 62
5.3.1 Bells .................................................................................................................................. 62
5.3.2 Horns ................................................................................................................................. 62

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5.3.3 Chimes .............................................................................................................................. 63

5.3.4 Buzzers ............................................................................................................................. 63
5.3.5 Sirens ................................................................................................................................ 63
5.3.6 Speakers ........................................................................................................................... 63
5.3.7 Electronic Alarms .............................................................................................................. 63
5.4 Visible Alarm Notification Appliances .................................................................................... 64
5.5 Combination Audible/Visible Notification Appliances ............................................................ 64
5.6 Exit Marking Audible Notification Appliance .......................................................................... 64
5.7 Textual Audible Notification Appliance .................................................................................. 64
5.8 Visible Notification Appliance ................................................................................................ 65
5.9 Textual Visible Notification Appliance. .................................................................................. 65
5.9.1 Visible Annunciators.......................................................................................................... 65
5.9.2 Lamp Annunciators ........................................................................................................... 65
5.9.3 Drop-Type Annunciators ................................................................................................... 65
5.9.4 Incandescent Lamp ........................................................................................................... 65
5.9.5 Solid-State Lamp............................................................................................................... 65
5.9.6 Fluorescent Lamp ............................................................................................................. 65
5.10 Permanent Recorders ........................................................................................................... 66
5.10.1 Punch Registers ................................................................................................................ 66
5.10.2 Print Recorders ................................................................................................................. 66
5.10.3 Time Stamps ..................................................................................................................... 66
5.11 Installation Wiring .................................................................................................................. 66
Section 6 Installation Instructions for Fire Alarm Systems.......................................................................... 69
6.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 69
6.2 Location of System Components .......................................................................................... 69
6.2.1 General ............................................................................................................................. 69
6.2.2 Fire Alarm Control Units .................................................................................................... 69
6.2.3 Alarm Initiating Devices .................................................................................................... 69
6.2.4 Audible Alarm Notification Appliances .............................................................................. 70
6.2.5 Visible Alarm Notification Appliances................................................................................ 70
6.2.6 Visible Alarm Signal Annunciators .................................................................................... 71
6.2.7 Permanent Recorders ....................................................................................................... 71
6.2.8 Trouble Signal Appliances ................................................................................................ 71
6.3 Power Supplies...................................................................................................................... 71
6.3.1 Number of Sources Required ........................................................................................... 71
6.3.2 Primary (Main) Power Supplies ........................................................................................ 71
6.3.3 Secondary (Standby) Power Supplies .............................................................................. 72
6.3.4 Batteries ............................................................................................................................ 73
6.4 Requirements for Installation of Wiring and Equipment ........................................................ 73
6.5 Manufacturer's Published Instructions .................................................................................. 74
6.6 Local Codes........................................................................................................................... 74
6.7 Types of Circuits .................................................................................................................... 74
6.8 Intermixing of Circuits ............................................................................................................ 74

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6.8.1 Non-Power-Limited Circuits and Conductors .................................................................... 74

6.8.2 Power-Limited Circuits and Conductors (NFPA 70, Article 760-136) ............................... 74
6.9 Enclosed Versus Exposed Wiring ......................................................................................... 76
6.10 Selecting Conductors and Cables ......................................................................................... 77
6.11 Cable Markings...................................................................................................................... 77
6.12 Identification of Circuits ......................................................................................................... 77
6.13 Monitoring for Integrity ........................................................................................................... 77
6.14 Lightning/Surge Protection (Circuit Protection) ..................................................................... 78
6.15 Outside Wiring ....................................................................................................................... 78
Section 7 System Start-Up Procedure ........................................................................................................ 79
7.1 General .................................................................................................................................. 79
7.2 Check of Installation Wiring ................................................................................................... 79
7.2.1 Preliminary ........................................................................................................................ 79
7.2.2 Test for Extraneous Voltages............................................................................................ 79
7.2.3 Test for Shorts and Opens ................................................................................................ 79
7.2.4 Test for Grounds ............................................................................................................... 82
7.2.5 Visual Inspection ............................................................................................................... 82
7.2.6 Check of Power Sources .................................................................................................. 82
7.3 Normal Operation (Normal Monitoring Condition) ................................................................. 82
7.4 Monitoring of Circuits for Integrity (Electrical Supervision) ................................................... 83
7.4.1 General ............................................................................................................................. 83
7.4.2 Power Supply Circuits ....................................................................................................... 83
7.4.3 Initiating Device and Notification Appliance Circuits ......................................................... 83
7.4.4 Overcurrent Protection Devices ........................................................................................ 83
7.4.5 Municipal Circuits .............................................................................................................. 83
7.4.6 Supplementary Circuits ..................................................................................................... 84
7.4.7 Annunciator Circuits .......................................................................................................... 84
7.5 Alarm Operation .................................................................................................................... 84
7.6 Authority Having Jurisdiction ................................................................................................. 85
Section 8 Proper Maintenance of Fire Alarm Systems ............................................................................... 86
8.1 Periodic Maintenance ............................................................................................................ 86
8.1.1 General ............................................................................................................................. 86
8.1.2 System Performance and Integrity.................................................................................... 86
8.2 Fire Alarm Control Units ........................................................................................................ 86
8.2.1 Printed Circuit Board Assemblies of Modules ................................................................... 86
8.2.2 Relay Maintenance ........................................................................................................... 87
8.2.3 Battery Charger Maintenance ........................................................................................... 87
8.2.4 Battery Maintenance ......................................................................................................... 87
8.2.5 Fuses ................................................................................................................................ 87
8.2.6 Circuit Breakers................................................................................................................. 87
8.2.7 Condition of Control Unit Cabinets (Dust and Dirt Removal) ............................................ 87
8.3 Non-Coded Manual Fire Alarm Boxes .................................................................................. 88
8.4 Coded Manual Fire Alarm Boxes .......................................................................................... 88

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8.4.1 General ............................................................................................................................. 88

8.4.2 Spring-Driven Fire Alarm Boxes ....................................................................................... 88
8.4.3 Motor-Driven Coded Fire Alarm Boxes ............................................................................. 89
8.5 Automatic Transmitters ......................................................................................................... 89
8.6 Automatic Heat Detectors ..................................................................................................... 89
8.6.1 Fixed-Temperature Heat Detector .................................................................................... 89
8.6.2 Rate-of-Rise Heat Detectors ............................................................................................. 89
8.6.3 Rate-Compensation Heat Detectors ................................................................................. 90
8.6.4 Explosion-Proof Heat Detectors........................................................................................ 90
8.7 Smoke Detectors ................................................................................................................... 90
8.8 Sprinkler Waterflow Detectors ............................................................................................... 90
8.8.1 Pressure Operated ............................................................................................................ 91
8.8.2 Vane Operated .................................................................................................................. 91
8.9 Gate-Valve Supervisory Contacts ......................................................................................... 91
8.10 Open Stem and Yoke (Os & Y) Valve Supervisory Contacts ................................................ 91
8.11 Pressure Switches ................................................................................................................. 91
8.12 Tank Switches for High and Low Alarm Service on Gravity Tanks ....................................... 91
8.13 Differential Pressure Switches .............................................................................................. 92
8.14 Inspector's Test Valves ......................................................................................................... 92
8.15 Notification Appliance—Alarm Horns .................................................................................... 92
8.16 Notification Appliance—Alarm Bells ...................................................................................... 92
8.17 Strobe Notification Appliances .............................................................................................. 93
8.18 Trouble Bells and Buzzers .................................................................................................... 93
8.19 Remote Switches on Systems............................................................................................... 93
FIGURES
Figure 2-1 Fire alarm voice control unit ...................................................................................................... 17

Figure 2-2 Examples of fire alarm control units .......................................................................................... 19
Figure 2-3 Two-wire class B initiating device circuit with end-of-line resistor ............................................. 22
Figure 2-4 Four-wire class A initiating device circuit with return run to panel............................................. 22
Figure 2-5 Two-wire class B notification appliance circuit using polarized DC notification appliances ...... 23
Figure 2-6 Two-wire class B audio notification appliance circuit using capacitor-coupled speakers ......... 23
Figure 2-7 Four-wire class A notification appliance circuit with return run to panel.................................... 24
Figure 2-8 Two-wire class B signaling line circuit with T-tap connection .................................................... 25
Figure 2-9 Four-wire class A or class X signaling line circuit...................................................................... 25
Figure 2-10 Example of a fire alarm control unit used as a protected premises system ............................ 27
Figure 2-11 Example of an in-building fire emergency voice/alarm communications system .................... 28
Figure 2-12 Energy communications systems classification ...................................................................... 30
Figure 2-13 Remote supervising station fire alarm system schematic diagram ......................................... 34
Figure 2-14 Remote supervising station fire alarm system riser diagram .................................................. 34
Figure 2-15 Local energy auxiliary alarm system ....................................................................................... 35
Figure 2-16 Shunt auxiliary alarm system................................................................................................... 36

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Figure 3-1 Basic multiplex system block diagram showing initiating device circuits connected to circuit
interfaces and to a signaling line circuit ...................................................................................................... 38
Figure 3-2 Basic multiplex system showing notification appliance circuits also connected to circuit
interfaces ..................................................................................................................................................... 39
Figure 3-3 Active multiplex system using T-tapped connections ................................................................ 40
Figure 3-4 Multiplex system where nonaddressable initiating devices are connected to an addressable
initiating device that includes circuit interface ............................................................................................. 44
Figure 4-1 Breakglass fire alarm box .......................................................................................................... 47
Figure 4-2 Single-action fire alarm .............................................................................................................. 47
Figure 4-3 Double action fire alarm box ...................................................................................................... 48
Figure 4-4 An early example of an ionization detector ................................................................................ 48
Figure 4-5 An example of a current multi-criteria detector .......................................................................... 48
Figure 4-6 Spot-type example: thermal detector ........................................................................................ 49
Figure 4-7 Spot-type example: smoke detector .......................................................................................... 49
Figure 4-8 Duct smoke detector housing .................................................................................................... 49
Figure 4-9 Fixed temperature detector ....................................................................................................... 50
Figure 4-10 Electrical conductivity sensing element ................................................................................... 50
Figure 4-11 Heat-sensitive cable ................................................................................................................ 51
Figure 4-12 Schematic of rate-compensation detector ............................................................................... 51
Figure 4-13 Combination spot-type rate-of-rise and fixed temperature detector ........................................ 52
Figure 4-14 Pneumatic rate-of-rise tubing .................................................................................................. 53
Figure 4-15 Current flow-through ionization detector sensing chamber ..................................................... 53
Figure 4-16 Projected beam smoke detector .............................................................................................. 54
Figure 4-17 Photoelectric light scattering detector ..................................................................................... 54
Figure 4-18 Waterflow switch on sprinkler system ..................................................................................... 55
Figure 4-19 Initiating devices, correctly wired ............................................................................................. 57
Figure 4-20 Initiating devices, incorrectly wired .......................................................................................... 57
Figure 4-21 Pigtail connections, incorrect wiring method ........................................................................... 58
Figure 4-22 Pigtail connections, correct wiring method .............................................................................. 58
Figure 4-23 Incorrect wiring method for multiriser initiating device circuit .................................................. 59
Figure 4-24 Correct wiring method for multiriser initiating device circuit .................................................... 59
Figure 4-25 Correct wiring method for class A circuit ................................................................................. 61
Figure 5-1 Incorrect installation wiring method for a notification appliance circuit...................................... 67
Figure 5-2 Correct installation wiring method for a notification appliance circuit ........................................ 67
Figure 5-3 Correct installation wiring method for single notification appliance circuit with two risers ........ 67
Figure 7-1 End-of-line device on two-wire class B initiating device circuit ................................................. 80
Figure 7-2 End-of-line device in control unit on four-wire class A initiating device circuit .......................... 80
Figure 7-3 Polarized diode-type notification appliances connected in parallel ........................................... 81
Figure 7-4 Speaker-type notification appliances connected in parallel ...................................................... 81
TABLES
Table 6-1 Operating periods required by NFPA standards......................................................................... 72

Table 7-1 Resistance of conductors ........................................................................................................... 81

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FOREWORD
The purpose of this training manual is to provide text material suitable for training persons in the proper
physical installation of fire alarm signaling systems. To that end, this manual covers terminology, basic
theory of operation, installation details, system startup techniques, and general maintenance.
While the manual may serve as a standalone text, it is best used as a source material for either
apprentices or journeymen in a classroom environment using a qualified instructor.
The manual emphasizes installation of basic fire alarm signaling systems instead of how or when to apply
the myriad system or equipment options available. Though the manual focuses on installation, the reader
is cautioned to follow the specific published installation instructions provided by the manufacturer of
systems or equipment being installed.
This information is a technical guide, distinct from mandatory requirements for compliance. It will be
updated to keep current with requirements of referenced and/or quoted publications of other
organizations. Comments, questions, or recommendations are invited and should be addressed to:
Director, Technical Standards

1300 N. 17th Street, Suite 900
Rosslyn, VA 22209
This standards publication was developed by the NEMA Fire, Life Safety, Security, and Emergency
Communications Section. At the time it was approved, the section was composed of the following members:
Apollo America
Bosch Security Systems
BRK Brands Inc./First Alert
Eaton
Evax Systems, Inc.
Federal Signal Corporation
Figaro USA, Inc.
Gentex Corporation
Honeywell Fire Systems
HSI Fire Safety
Light Engine America
Micropack Detection
Nest Labs
Potter Electric Signal Company, LLC
SDi LLC
Siemens Industry, Inc.
SimplexGrinnell LP
Space Age Electronics
USI Electric
Valcom
Xtralis Inc.

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Section 1
General
1.1 Scope
This manual, developed by the automatic fire detection and alarm industry of the Fire, Life Safety, Security
and Emergency Notification Section, provides technical information on basic fire alarm systems in common
usage.
This edition of the manual supersedes all prior versions.
Portions of this material are reprinted with permission from the 2013 edition of the National Fire Protection
Association’s NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code®, copyright 2012, National Fire Protection
Association, Quincy, Massachusetts. This reprinted material is not the complete and official position of the
NFPA on the referenced subject, which is represented only by the standard in its entirety.
1.2 Referenced Standards
Acoustical Society of America

ANSI/ASA S3.41 American National Standard Audible Emergency Evacuation Signal
International Code Council

IBC-2012 International Building Code
IFC-2012 International Fire Code

NEMA SB 50-2014 Emergency Communications Audio Intelligibility Applications Guide
National Fire Protection Association

NFPA 13-2013 Standard for the Installation of Sprinkler Systems
NFPA 70-2014 National Electrical Code
1
NFPA 72-2013 National Fire Alarm Code
NFPA 101-2015 Life Safety Code
NFPA 1221-2016 Standard for the Installation, Maintenance, and Use of Emergency
Services Communications Systems.
NFPA 5000-2015 Building Construction and Safety Code
Underwriters Laboratories
UL 1971 Signaling Devices for the Hearing Impaired
NOTE: Since NFPA standards and codes are periodically revised, the year of the desired edition of the particular
standard or code should be used when referencing the NFPA document involved. Two methods are in common use.
One is to reference the code by stating NFPA 72-2013. The other is to refer to the 2013 edition of NFPA 72. If a
particular question comes up regarding a standard or code, be sure to correctly identify which edition of the code may
be at issue. All states or municipalities that have adopted NFPA codes or standards by reference do not always refer
to the latest edition available. Each state or municipality may adopt the NFPA codes in whole or in part. The user
should check for local amendments to the codes.
1.3 General Definitions

acknowledge: To confirm that a message or signal has been received, such as by the pressing of a
button or the selection of a software command.

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active multiplex system: A multiplexing system in which signaling devices such as transponders are
employed to transmit status signals of each initiating device or initiating device circuit within a prescribed
time interval so that the lack of receipt of such signal may be interpreted as a trouble signal.
addressable device: A fire alarm system component with discrete identification that can have its status
individually identified or that is used to individually control other functions.
adverse condition: Any condition occurring in a communications or transmission channel that interferes
with the proper transmission or interpretation, or both, of status change or control command signals at
the supervising station.
air sampling-type detector: A detector that consists of a piping or tubing distribution network that runs
from the detector to the area(s) to be protected. An aspiration fan in the detector housing draws air from
the protected area back to the detector through air sampling ports, piping, or tubing. At the detector, the
air is analyzed for fire products.
alarm: A warning of danger.
alarm service: The service required following the receipt of an alarm signal.
alarm signal: See signal.
alarm system: A combination of compatible initiating devices, control units, and indicating appliances
designed and installed to produce an alarm signal in the event of fire.
alarm verification feature: A feature of automatic fire detection and alarm systems to reduce unwanted
alarms wherein smoke detectors report alarm conditions for a minimum period of time, or confirm alarm
conditions within a given time period after being reset, in order to be accepted as a valid alarm initiation
signal.
alert tone: An attention-getting signal to alert occupants of the pending transmission of a voice message.
analog initiating device (sensor): An initiating device that transmits a signal indicating varying degrees
of condition as contrasted with a conventional initiating device, which can only indicate an on-off
condition.
ancillary functions: Ancillary functions are those non-emergency activations of the fire alarm or mass
notification audible, visual, and textual output circuits allowed. Ancillary functions can include general
paging, background music, or other non-emergency signals.
annunciator: A unit containing one or more indicator lamps, alphanumeric displays, or other equivalent
means in which each indication provides status information about a circuit, condition, or location.
approved: Acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.
audible signal: An audible signal is the sound made by one or more audible notification appliances such
as bells, horns, or speakers in response to the operation of an initiating device.
authority having jurisdiction (AHJ): The organization, office, or individual responsible for approving
equipment, materials, an installation, or a procedure. NFPA 72 contains an annex item commenting on
the definition for "authority having jurisdiction" as follows:
A.3.2.2 Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). The phrase "authority having jurisdiction" is used
in NFPA documents in a broad manner, since jurisdictions and approval agencies vary, as do
their responsibilities. Where public safety is primary, the authority having jurisdiction may be a

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federal, state, local, or other regional department or individual such as a fire chief; fire marshal;
chief of a fire prevention bureau, labor department, or health department; building official;
electrical inspector; or others having statutory authority. For insurance purposes, an insurance
inspection department, rating bureau, or other insurance company representative may be the
authority having jurisdiction. In many circumstances, the property owner or his or her designated
agent assumes the role of the authority having jurisdiction; at government installations, the
commanding officer or departmental official may be the authority having jurisdiction.
automatic extinguishing system supervisory device: A device that responds to abnormal conditions
that could affect the proper operation of an automatic sprinkler system or other fire extinguishing
system(s) or suppression system(s) including, but not limited to, control valves, pressure levels, liquid
agent levels and temperatures, pump power and running, engine temperature and overspeed, and room
temperature.
automatic fire alarm system: A system in which all or some of the initiating device circuits are activated
by automatic devices, such as fire detectors.
automatic fire detector: A device designed to detect the presence of a fire signature and to initiate
action. For the purpose of this code, automatic fire detectors are classified as follows: automatic fire
extinguishing or suppression system operation detector, fire-gas detector, heat detector, other fire
detectors, radiant energy sensing fire detector, and smoke detector.
a. combination detector: A device that either responds to more than one of the fire phenomena or
employs more than one operating principle to sense one of these phenomena. Typical examples
are a combination of a heat detector with a smoke detector or a combination rate-of-rise and
fixed-temperature heat detector. This device has listings for each sensing method employed.
b. fixed-temperature detector: A device that responds when its operating element becomes
heated to a predetermined level. (See also heat detector.)
c. flame detector: A radiant energy–sensing fire detector that detects the radiant energy
emitted by a flame.
d. gas detector: A device that detects the presence of a specified gas concentration. Gas
detectors can be either spot-type or line-type detectors.
e. heat detector: A fire detector that detects either abnormally high temperature or rate-of-
temperature rise, or both.
i. rate compensation detector: A device that responds when the temperature of the
air surrounding the device reaches a predetermined level, regardless of the rate-of-
temperature rise.
ii. rate-of-rise detector: A device that responds when the temperature rises at a rate
exceeding a predetermined value.
f. line-type detector: A device in which detection is continuous along a path. Typical examples
are rate-of-rise pneumatic tubing detectors, projected beam smoke detectors, and heat-
sensitive cable.
g. multi-criteria detector: A device that contains multiple sensors that separately respond to
physical stimulus such as heat, smoke, or fire gases, or employs more than one sensor to
sense the same stimulus. This sensor is capable of generating only one alarm signal from the
sensors employed in the design either independently or in combination. The sensor output
signal is mathematically evaluated to determine when an alarm signal is warranted. The

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evaluation can be performed either at the detector or at the control unit. This detector has a
single listing that establishes the primary function of the detector.
h. multi-sensor detector: A device that contains multiple sensors that separately respond to
physical stimuli such as heat, smoke, or fire gases, or employs more than one sensor to
sense the same stimulus. A device capable of generating multiple alarm signals from any one
of the sensors employed in the design, independently or in combination. The sensor output
signals are mathematically evaluated to determine when an alarm signal is warranted. The
evaluation can be performed either at the detector or at the control unit. This device has
listings for each sensing method employed.
i. projected beam–type detector: A type of photoelectric light obscuration smoke detector

wherein the beam spans the protected area.
j. radiant energy–sensing fire detector: A device that detects radiant energy, such as ultraviolet,
visible, or infrared that is emitted as a product of combustion reaction and obeys the laws of
optics.
k. smoke detector: A device that detects visible or invisible particles of combustion.
l. spark/ember detector: A radiant energy–sensing fire detector that is designed to detect

sparks or embers, or both. These devices are normally intended to operate in dark
environments and in the infrared part of the spectrum.
m. spot-type detector: A device in which the detecting element is concentrated at a particular

location. Typical examples are bimetallic detectors, fusible alloy detectors, certain pneumatic
rate-of-rise detectors, certain smoke detectors, and thermoelectric detectors.
auxiliary alarm box: An alarm box that can only be operated from one or more remote initiating devices
or an auxiliary system used to send an alarm to the communications center.
auxiliary alarm system: A protected premises fire alarm system or other emergency system at the
protected premises and the system used to connect the protected premises system to a public
emergency alarm reporting system for transmitting an alarm communication center.
a. local energy–type auxiliary alarm system: An auxiliary system that employs a locally
complete arrangement of parts, initiating devices, relays, power supply, and associated
components to automatically activate a master box or auxiliary box over circuits that are
electrically isolated from the public emergency alarm reporting system circuits.
b. shunt-type auxiliary alarm system: An auxiliary system electrically connected to the public
emergency alarm reporting system extending a public emergency alarm reporting circuit to
interconnecting initiating devices within a protected premises, which, when operated, opens the
public emergency alarm reporting circuit shunted around the trip coil of the master box or
auxiliary box. The master box or auxiliary box is thereupon energized to start transmission
without any assistance from a local source of power.
average ambient sound level: The root mean square, A-weighted, sound pressure level measured over
the period of time that any person is present, or a 24-hour period, whichever time period is the lesser.
bell: A single-stroke or vibrating-type audible notification appliance that has a bell tone.
bidirectional (two-way) communication: Communication between fire alarm system elements in which
both elements participate in carrying out a task instruction.

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break glass fire alarm box: A fire alarm box in which it is necessary to break a special element in order
to operate the box.
carrier: High-frequency energy that can be modulated by voice or signaling impulses.
carrier system: A means of conveying a number of channels over a single path by modulating each
channel on a different carrier frequency and demodulating at the receiving point to restore the signals to
their original form.
ceiling: The upper surface of a space, regardless of height. Areas with a suspended ceiling have two
ceilings, one visible from the floor and one above the suspended ceiling.
ceiling height: The height from the continuous floor of a room to the continuous ceiling of a room or
space.
ceiling surfaces: Ceiling surfaces referred to in conjunction with the locations of initiating devices are
defined as follows:
a. beam construction: Ceilings that have solid structural or solid nonstructural members
projecting down from the ceiling surface more than 100 mm (4 in.) and spaced more than 919
mm (3 ft.), center to center.
b. girder: A support for beams or joists that runs at right angles to the beams or joists. If the top of
the girder is within 100 mm (4 in.) of the ceiling, the girder is a factor in determining the number
of detectors and is to be considered a beam. If the top of the girder is more than 100 mm (4 in.)
from the ceiling, the girder is not a factor in detector location.
c. solid joist construction: Ceilings that have solid structural or nonstructural members projecting
down from the ceiling surface for a distance of more than 100 mm (4 in.) and spaced at intervals
of 910 mm (36 in.) or less, center to center.
central processing unit (CPU): An arrangement of circuitry using computer circuit techniques usually
consisting of memory elements, signal processing circuitry, and a means to input and output data at very
high speed.
central supervising station: A supervising station that is listed for central station service and that also
commonly provides less stringent supervising services, such as remote supervising services.
central station service alarm system: A system or group of systems in which the operations of circuits
and devices are transmitted automatically to, recorded in, maintained by, and supervised from a listed
central station having competent and experienced servers and operators who, upon receipt of a signal,
take such action as required by this code. Such service is to be controlled and operated by a person,
firm, or corporation whose business is the furnishing, maintaining, or monitoring of supervised alarm
systems.
central station service: The use of a system or a group of systems including the protected premises fire
alarm system(s) in which the operations of circuits and devices are signaled to, recorded in, and
supervised from a listed central station that has competent and experienced operators who, upon receipt
of a signal, take such action as required by this code. Related activities at the protected premises, such
as equipment installation, inspection, testing, maintenance, and runner service, are the responsibility of
the central station or a listed alarm service local company. Central station service is controlled and
operated by a person, firm, or corporation whose business is the furnishing of such contracted services
or whose properties are the protected premises.

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certification: A systematic program that uses randomly selected follow-up inspections of the certificated
systems installed under the program that allow the listing organization to verify that a fire alarm system
complies with all the requirements of a code. A system installed under such a program is identified by the
issuance of a certificate and is designated as a certificated system.
certification of personnel: A formal program of related instruction and testing as provided by a

recognized organization or the authority having jurisdiction.
chime: A single-stroke or vibrating-type audible notification appliance that has a xylophone-type striking
bar and/or tone.
circuit interface: A circuit component that interfaces initiating devices or control circuits, or both;
notification appliances or circuits, or both; system control outputs; and other signaling line circuits to a
signaling line circuit. This can be an module or a transponder panel.
class A circuit: Class A refers to an arrangement of monitored initiating device, signaling line, or
notification appliance circuits that prevents a single open or ground on the installation wiring of these
circuits from causing loss of the system's intended function.
class B circuit: Class B refers to an arrangement of monitored initiating device, signaling line, or
notification appliance circuits that would permit a single open or ground on the installation wiring of these
circuits to cause loss of all or some of the system's intended function.
closed (proprietary) protocol: A protocol that is exclusive to a specific set of hardware and/or
software that is often considered “non-standard” and is provided for commercial gains, improved
features and functionality, or both.
coded: An audible or visible signal that conveys several discrete bits or units of information.
combination fire alarm and guard's tour box: A manually operated box for separately transmitting a
fire alarm signal and a distinctive guard patrol tour supervisory signal.
combination system: A fire alarm system in which components are used, in whole or in part, in
common with a non-fire signaling system.
communications protocol: A defined software instruction set that allows hardware and software to
carry out tasks or instructions.
compatibility listed: A specific listing process that applies only to two-wire devices, such as smoke
detectors, in which the smoke detector is listed to operate with specific control equipment.
compatible (equipment): Equipment that interfaces mechanically or electrically together as

manufactured without field modification.
condition: A situation, environmental state, or equipment state of a fire alarm or signaling system.
a. abnormal (off-normal) condition: A situation, environmental state or equipment state that

warrants some type of signal, notification, communication, response, action or service.
b. alarm condition: An abnormal condition that poses an immediate threat to life, property, or
mission.
c. pre-alarm condition: An abnormal condition that poses a potential threat to life, property, or
mission, and time is available for investigation.

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d. supervisory condition: An abnormal condition in connection with the supervision of other

systems, processes, or equipment.
e. trouble condition: An abnormal condition in a system due to a fault.
f. normal condition: Circuits, systems, and components are functioning as designed and no
abnormal condition exists.
control unit: A system component that monitors inputs and controls outputs through various types of
circuits.
a. autonomous control unit: The primary control unit for an in-building mass notification system.
b. emergency communications control unit: A system capable of sending mass notification

messages to individual buildings, zones of buildings, individual outdoor speaker arrays, or zones
of outdoor speaker arrays, or a building, multiple buildings, outside areas, or a combination of
these.
c. wireless control unit: A component that transmits/ receives and processes wireless signals.
deficiency: A condition that interferes with the service or reliability for which the part, system, or
equipment was intended.
detector: A device suitable for connection to a circuit that has a sensor that responds to a physical
stimulus such as gas, heat or smoke.
digital alarm communicator receiver (DACR): A system component that accepts and displays signals
from digital alarm communicator transmitters (DACTs) sent over the public switched telephone network.
digital alarm communicator system (DACS): A system in which signals are transmitted from a digital
alarm communicator transmitter (DACT) located at the protected premises through the switched
telephone network to a digital alarm communicator receiver (DACR).
digital alarm communicator transmitter (DACT): A system component at the protected premises to
which initiating devices or groups of devices are connected. The DACT seizes the connected telephone
line, dials a preselected number to connect to a DACR, and transmits signals indicating a status change
of the initiating device.
digital alarm radio receiver (DARR): A system component composed of two subcomponents: one that
receives and decodes radio signals, the other that annunciates the decoded data. These two
subcomponents can be co-resident at the central station or separated by means of a data transmission
channel.
digital alarm radio system (DARS): A system in which signals are transmitted from a digital alarm radio
transmitter (DART) located at a protected premises through a radio channel to a digital alarm radio
receiver (DARR).
digital alarm radio transmitter (DART): A system component that is connected to or is an integral part
of a digital alarm communicator transmitter (DACT) that is used to provide an alternate radio transmission
channel.
display: The visual representation of output data, other than printed copy.
distributed recipient mass notification system (DRMNS): A system meant to communicate directly
to targeted individuals and groups that might not be in a contiguous area.

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dual control: The use of two primary trunk facilities over separate routes or different methods to control
one communications channel.
effective masked threshold: The minimum sound level at which the tone signal is audible in
ambient noise.
emergency communications system: A system for the protection of life by indicating the existence of
an emergency situation and communicating information necessary to facilitate an appropriate response
and action.
emergency voice/alarm communications: Dedicated manual or automatic equipment for originating

and distributing voice instructions, as well as alert and evacuation signals pertaining to a fire emergency,
to the occupants of a building.
evacuation: The withdrawal of occupants from a building.
NOTE: Evacuation does not include relocation of occupants within a building.
evacuation signal: Distinctive signal intended to be recognized by the occupants as requiring

evacuation of the building.
false alarm: See unwanted alarm.
fire alarm box: A manually operated device used to initiate a fire alarm signal.
fire alarm control unit (FACU): A component of the fire alarm system, provided with primary and
secondary power sources, which receives signals from initiating devices or other fire alarm control units,
and processes these signals to determine part of all of the required fire alarm system output function(s).
a. dedicated function fire alarm control unit: A protected premises fire alarm control unit
which is intended to provide operation of a specifically identified emergency control function.
b. master fire alarm control unit: A fire alarm control unit that serves the protected premises
or portion of the protected premises as a local fire alarm control unit and accepts inputs from
other fire alarm control units.
c. protected premises (local) control unit: A fire alarm control unit that serves the protected
premises or a portion of the protected premises.
d. releasing service fire alarm control unit: A protected premises fire alarm control unit
specifically listed for releasing service that is part of a fire suppression system and which
provides control outputs to release a fire suppression agent based on either automatic or
manual input.
fire alarm signal: A signal that results from the manual or automatic detection of a fire alarm condition.
fire alarm system: A system or portion of a combination system that consists of components and circuits
arranged to monitor and annunciate the status of fire alarm or supervisory signal-initiating devices and to
initiate the appropriate response to those signals.
fire alarm/evacuation signal tone generator: A device that produces a fire alarm/evacuation tone upon
command.

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fire command center: The principal attended or unattended location where the status of the detection,
alarm communications, control systems, and other emergency systems is displayed and from which the
system(s) can be manually controlled.
fire safety functions: Building and fire control functions that are intended to increase the level of life
safety for occupants or to control the spread of harmful effects of fire.
fire warden: A building staff member or a tenant trained to perform assigned duties in the event of a fire
emergency.
gateway: A device that is used in the transmission of serial data (digital or analog) from the fire alarm
control unit to other building system control units, equipment, or networks and/or from other building
system control units to the fire alarm control unit.
guard signal: A supervisory signal monitoring the performance of guard patrols.
guard's tour reporting station: A device that is manually or automatically initiated to indicate the route
being followed and the timing of a guard's tour.
impairment: An abnormal condition where a system, component, or function is out of order, and the
condition can result in the system or unit not functioning when required.
initiating device: A system component that originates transmission of a change-of-state condition, such
as in a smoke detector, manual fire alarm box, or supervisory switch.
initiating device circuit: A circuit to which automatic or manual initiating devices are connected where
the signal received does not identify the individual device operated.
intelligibility: The quality or condition of being intelligible.
intelligible: Capable of being understood; comprehensible; clear.
ionization smoke detection: See smoke detection.
labeled: Equipment or materials with an attached label, symbol, or other identifying mark of an
organization acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction that conducts product evaluation and
maintains periodic inspection of production of labeled equipment or materials, and by whose labeling the
manufacturer indicates compliance with appropriate standards or performance in a specified manner.
NOTE: UL Classified Label means that the product was tested to specific conditions on products shown in the
Classified Label File Card.
leg facility: The portion of a communications channel that connects not more than one protected
premises to a primary or secondary trunk facility. The leg facility includes the portion of the signal
transmission circuit from its point of connection with a trunk facility to the point where it is terminated
within the protected premises at one or more transponders.
line fault isolators: A device designed to disconnect itself, along with its associated wiring, whenever a
short circuit occurs on its supporting circuit. Depending on the wiring scheme employed, a greater level of
system operability can be maintained using line fault isolators should a short-circuit condition develop.
listed: Equipment, materials, or services included in a list published by an organization acceptable to the
authority having jurisdiction that conducts evaluations of products or services, and that maintains periodic
inspection of production of listed equipment or materials or periodic evaluation of services, and whose
listing states either that the equipment, material, or service meets identified standards or has been tested

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and found suitable for a specified purpose. NFPA 72 contains an annex item commenting on the
definition as follows:
A.3.2.5 Listed. The means for identifying listed equipment may vary for each organization
concerned with product evaluation, some of which do not recognize equipment as listed unless it
is also labeled. The authority having jurisdiction should utilize the system employed by the listing
organization to identify a listed product.
loading capacity: The maximum number of discrete elements of fire alarm systems permitted to be
used in a particular configuration.
loss of power: The reduction of available voltage at the load below the point at which equipment can
function as designed.
low-power radio transmitter: Any device that communicates with associated control/receiving
equipment by low-power radio signals.
maintenance: (1) Repair service, including periodic inspections and tests, required to keep the fire alarm
system and its component parts in an operative condition at all times, together with replacement of the
system or its components when they become undependable or inoperable for any reason. (2) Work,
including, but not limited to, repair, replacement, and service, performed to ensure that equipment
operates properly.
manual fire alarm box: A manually operated device used to initiate an alarm signal.
in-building mass notification system: A system used to provide information and instructions to
people in a building(s) or other space using intelligible voice communications and including visible
signals, text, graphics, tactile, or other communications methods.
manual fire alarm box: A manually operated device used to initiate a fire alarm signal.
a. non-coded: A manually operated device which, when operated, closes or opens one or more
set(s) of contacts and generally locks the contacts in the operated position until the box is reset.
b. coded: A manually operated device in which the act of pulling a lever causes the transmission of
not less than three rounds of coded alarm signals. Similar to the non-coded type, except that
instead of a manually operated switch, a mechanism to rotate a code wheel is utilized. Rotation
of the code wheel, in turn, causes an electrical circuit to be alternately opened and closed, or
closed and opened, thus transmitting a coded alarm signal that identifies the location of the box.
The code wheel is cut for the individual code to be transmitted by the device and can operate by
clockwork or an electric motor. Clockwork transmitters can be pre-wound or can be wound by
the pulling of the alarm lever. Usually the box is designed to repeat its code four times and
automatically come to rest. Pre-wound transmitters must sound a trouble signal when they
require rewinding. Solid-state, electronic coding devices are also used in conjunction with the fire
alarm control unit to produce coded sounding of the system's audible notification appliances.
master box: A publicly accessible alarm box that can also be operated by one or more remote initiating
devices or an auxiliary alarm system used to send an alarm to the communications center.
master fire alarm control unit: A fire alarm control unit that serves the protected premises or portion of
the protected premises as a local fire alarm control unit and accepts inputs from other fire alarm control
units.
multiplex: Communication of two or more fire alarm signals (conditions) over a common (single)
communications channel.

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multiplexing: A signaling method characterized by simultaneous or sequential transmission, or both,

and reception of multiple signals on a signaling line circuit, a transmission channel, or a communications
channel, including means for positively identifying each signal.
municipal fire alarm box (street box): A publicly accessible alarm box. (See alarm box.)
municipal fire alarm system: A public emergency alarm reporting system.
network: A system of interconnected fire alarm components and/or associated circuits.
network architecture: The physical and logical design of a network, and the inherent ability of the
design to carry data from one point to another.
network node: A critical element of a fire alarm network where communications lines
(channels/pathways) interface.
non-coded: An audible or visible signal conveying one discrete bit of information.
Non-restorable initiating device: A device whose sensing element is designed to be destroyed in the
process of operation.
notification appliance: A fire alarm system component such as a bell, horn, speaker, light, or text
display that provides audible, tactile, or visible outputs, or any combination thereof.
a. audible notification appliance: A notification appliance that alerts by the sense of hearing.
b. tactile notification appliance: A notification appliance that alerts by the sense of touch or
vibration.
c. textual audible notification appliance: A notification appliance that conveys a stream of

audible information.
d. textual visible notification appliance: A notification appliance that conveys a stream of visible
information alphanumeric or pictorial message. Textual visible notification appliances provide
temporary text, permanent text, or symbols. Textual visible notification appliances include,
but are not limited to, annunciators, monitors, CRTs, displays, printers.
e. visible notification appliance: A notification appliance that alerts by the sense of sight.
notification appliance circuit: A circuit or path directly connected to a notification appliance (s).
notification zone: A discrete area of a building, bounded by building outer walls, fire or smoke
compartment boundaries, floor separations, or other fire safety subdivisions, in which occupants are
intended to receive common notification.
nuisance alarm: An unwanted activation of a signaling system or an alarm initiating device in response
to a stimulus or condition that is not the result of a potentially hazardous condition.
open (non-proprietary) protocol: a protocol that is widely known, understood, and/or otherwise
implemented that is most often considered a standard and is usually provided for non-commercial gains.
path (pathways): Any circuit, conductor, optic fiber, radio carrier, or other means connecting two or more
locations.

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positive alarm sequence: An automatic sequence that results in an alarm signal, even when manually
delayed for investigation, unless the system is reset.
power supply: A source of electrical operating power, including the circuits and terminations connecting
it to the dependent system components.
proprietary supervising station: A location to which alarm or supervisory signaling devices on

proprietary fire alarm systems are connected and where personnel are in attendance at all times to
supervise operation and investigate signals.
proprietary supervising station alarm system: An installation of an alarm system that serves
contiguous and noncontiguous properties, under one ownership from a proprietary supervising station
located at the protected premises, or at one of multiple noncontiguous protected premises, at which
trained, competent personnel are in constant attendance. This includes the protected premises fire alarm
system(s); proprietary supervising station; power supplies; signal-initiating devices; initiating device
circuits; signal notification appliances; equipment for the automatic, permanent visual recording of
signals; and equipment for initiating the operation of emergency building control services.
protected premises: The physical location protected by a fire alarm system.
protected premises (local) fire alarm system: A fire alarm system located at the protected premises.
publicly accessible alarm box: An enclosure, accessible to the public, housing a manually operated
transmitter used to send an alarm to the communications center.
radio alarm repeater station receiver (RARSR): A system component that receives radio signals and
resides at a repeater station that is located at a remote receiving location.
radio alarm supervising station receiver (RASSR): A system component that receives data and
annunciates that data at the supervising station.
radio alarm system (RAS): A system in which signals are transmitted from a radio alarm transmitter
(RAT) located at protected premises through a radio channel to two or more radio alarm repeater station
receivers (RARSR) and are annunciated by a radio alarm supervising station receiver (RASSR) located
at the supervising station.
radio alarm transmitter (RAT): A system component at the protected premises to which initiating
devices or groups of devices are connected that transmits signals indicating a status change of the
initiating devices.
radio channel: A band of frequencies of a width sufficient to permit its use for radio communications.
A3.3.43.4. The width of the channel depends on the type of transmissions and the tolerance for
the frequency of emission. Channels normally are allocated for radio transmission in a specified
type for service by a specified transmitter.
record drawings: Drawings (as built) that document the location of all devices, appliances, wiring
sequences, wiring methods, and connections of the components of the system as installed.
record of completion: A document that acknowledges the features of installation, operation

(performance), service, and equipment with representation by the property owner, system installer,
system supplier, service organization, and the authority having jurisdiction.
relocation: The movement of occupants from a fire zone to a safe area within the same building.

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remote supervising station alarm system: A protected premises fire alarm system (exclusive of any
connection to a public emergency reporting system) in which alarm, supervisory, or trouble signals are
transmitted automatically from a remote supervising station that has competent and experienced servers
and operators who, upon receipt of a signal, take such action as required by this code.
reset: A control function that attempts to return a system or device to its normal, non-alarm state.
response: Actions performed upon the receipt of a signal.
secondary trunk facility: That part of a transmission channel connecting two or more, but fewer than
all, leg facilities to a primary trunk facility.
shall: Indicates a mandatory requirement.
should: Indicates a recommendation or that which is advised but not required.
signal: A message indicating a condition, communicated by an electrical, visible, audible, wireless, or

other means.
alarm signal: A signal that results from the manual or automatic detection of an alarm condition.
signaling line circuit: A circuit or path between any combination of addressable appliances or devices,
circuit interfaces, control units, or transmitters over which multiple system input signals or output signals,
or both, are carried.
signaling line circuit interface: A system component that connects a signaling line circuit to any
combination of initiating devices, initiating device circuits, notification appliances, notification appliance
circuits, system control outputs, and other signaling line circuits.
site-specific software: Program that is separate from, but controlled by, the executive software that
allows inputs, outputs, and system configuration to be selectively defined to meet the needs of a specific
installation. Typically it defines the type and quantity of hardware, customized labels, and the specific
operating features of a system.
smoke detection: Detecting smoke using, but not limited to, one or more of the following methods:
a. cloud chamber smoke detection: The principle of using an air sample drawn from the
protected area into a high-humidity chamber, combined with a lowering of chamber pressure
to create an environment in which the resultant moisture in the air condenses on any smoke
particles present, forming a cloud. The cloud density is measured by a photoelectric principle.
The density signal is processed and used to convey an alarm condition when it meets preset
criteria.
b. ionization smoke detection: The principle of using a small amount of radioactive material to
ionize the air between two differentially charged electrodes to sense the presence of smoke
particles. Smoke particles entering the ionization volume decrease the conductance of the air
by reducing ion mobility. The reduced conductance signal is processed and used to convey
an alarm condition when it meets preset criteria. NFPA 72 contains an annex item
commenting on the definition for "ionization smoke detection" as follows:
ionization smoke detection. Ionization smoke detection is more responsive to invisible

particles (smaller than 1 micron in size) produced by most flaming fires. It is somewhat

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less responsive to the larger particles typical of most smoldering fires. Smoke detectors
utilizing the ionization principle are usually of the spot type.
c. photoelectric light obscuration smoke detection: The principle of using a light source and
a photosensitive sensor onto which the principal portion of the source emissions is focused.
When smoke particles enter the light path, some of the light is scattered and some is
absorbed, thereby reducing the light reaching the receiving sensor. The light reduction signal
is processed and used to convey an alarm condition when it meets preset criteria.
d. photoelectric light-scattering smoke detection: The principle of using a light source and a
photosensitive sensor arranged so that the rays from the light source do not normally fall onto
the photosensitive sensor. When smoke particles enter the light path, some of the light is
scattered by reflection and refraction onto the sensor. The light signal is processed and used
to convey an alarm condition when it meets preset criteria.
e. video image flame detection (VIFD): The principle of using automatic analysis of real-time
video images to detect the presence of flame.
f. video image smoke detection (VISD): The principle of using automatic analysis of real-time
video images to detect the presence of smoke.
spacing: A horizontally measured dimension relating to the allowable coverage of fire detectors.
standard audible emergency evacuation signal: A distinctive, three-pulse temporal pattern

emergency evacuation signal required by NFPA 72 for all new systems installed after July 1, 1996. For a
detailed description of this signal, see ANSI/ASA S3.41.
subsidiary station: A subsidiary station is a normally unattended location that is remote from the
supervising station and is linked by a communications channel(s) to the supervising station.
Interconnection of signals on one or more transmission channels from a protected premises with a
communications channel(s) to the supervising station is performed at this location.
supervising station: A facility that receives signals from protected premises fire alarm systems and at
which personnel are in attendance at all times to respond to these signals.
supervisory signal: A signal that results from the detection of a supervisory condition.
supervisory signal-initiating device: An initiating device such as a valve supervisory switch, water
level indicator, or low air pressure switch on a dry-pipe sprinkler system in which the change of state
signals an off-normal condition and its restoration to normal of a fire protection or life safety system; or a
need for action in connection with guard’s tours, fire suppression systems or equipment, or maintenance
features of related systems.
supplementary: As used in this code, supplementary refers to equipment or operations not required by
a code and designated as such by the authority having jurisdiction.
temporal signal: A distinctive signal intended to be recognized by its pattern of four rounds of three in a
timed sequence of events. A timed sequence of events in a three-pulse pattern.
trouble signal: A signal that results from the detection of a trouble condition.
two-way fire department communications system: An electrically monitored telephone system

providing private voice communications capability between the command center or central control unit
and designated remote locations. Phones or phone jacks can be installed at the remote locations.

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uni-directional (one-way) communication: Communication from a fire alarm system element in which
one element provides the task instruction and other element(s) participate in carrying out a task
instruction.
unwanted alarm: Any alarm that occurs that is not the result of a potentially hazardous condition.
visible signal: A visible signal is the response to the operation of an initiating device by one or more
direct or indirect visible notification appliances. For a direct visible signal, the sole means of notification is
by direct viewing of the light source. For an indirect visible signal, the sole means of notification is by
reflected light within the room.
voice intelligibility: Audible voice information that is distinguishable and understandable. See NEMA
SB 50 Emergency Communications Audio Intelligibility Applications Guide.
waterflow switch: An assembly approved for service, constructed and installed so that any flow of water
from a sprinkler system equal to or greater than that from a single automatic sprinkler head will result in
activation of this switch and subsequently indicate an alarm condition.
wired network: The method of communications used in a public emergency alarm reporting system
when it consists of a wired type of communications infrastructure.
wireless network: The method of communications used in a public emergency alarm reporting system
when it consists of a wireless type of communications infrastructure.
wireless initiating device: Any initiating device that communicates with an associated control/receiving
equipment using a wireless transmission path.
wireless protection system: A system or a part of a system that can transmit and receive signals
without the aid of interconnecting wiring. It may consist of either a wireless control unit, or a wireless
repeater.
wireless repeater: A component used to relay signals between wireless devices, appliances, and control
units.
zone: A defined area within the protected premises. A zone can define an area from which a signal can
be received, an area to which a signal can be sent, or an area in which a form of control can be
executed.
a. evacuation signaling zone: An area consisting of one or more notification zones where
signals are actuated simultaneously.
b. notification zone: A discrete area of a building, bounded by building outer walls, fire or
smoke compartment boundaries, floor separations, or other fire safety subdivisions, in which
occupants are intended to receive common notification.

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Section 2
Basic Fire Alarm Systems
2.1 General
Most fire alarm systems consist of the following basic parts:
a. Control unit
b. Initiating device circuits (IDCs) and/or signaling line circuits (SLCs)
c. Notification appliance circuits (NACs) and/or SLCs
d. Power supply
e. Building fire safety control circuits (optional)
The applications of fire alarm systems can be broken down into five broad categories:
a. Household fire alarm systems

b. Protected premises (local) fire alarm systems
c. Emergency communication systems (ECS)
d. Supervising station fire alarm systems
1. Central station fire alarm systems
2. Remote supervising station fire alarm systems
3. Proprietary supervising station fire alarm systems
e. Public emergency alarm fire reporting systems
1. Auxiliary fire alarm systems—local energy type
2. Auxiliary fire alarm systems—shunt type
Each of these categories is defined in section 1 of this manual.
In the 1993 edition of NFPA 72, the classification of "local fire alarm systems" was changed to "protected
premises fire alarm systems." The definition for "protected premises" systems makes it evident that the
system's application has not changed from what it was when it was called a "local" system and is
confined to the premises being protected. In the NFPA 72 2013 edition, the requirements for protected
premises (local) fire alarm systems are presented in chapter 23. Chapter 17 applies to initiating devices
and chapter 18 to notification appliances connected to the protected premises fire alarm system.
In addition to protected premises fire alarm system requirements, chapter 26 includes the requirements
for the installation of that portion of the supervising stations covered in NFPA 72 chapter 26 located on
the protected premises.
In the 2010 edition of NFPA 72, emergency/voice alarm communication system requirements were
moved from chapter 23, Protected Premises Fire Alarm Systems, to a new chapter 24, Emergency
Communication Systems (ECS).
Though NFPA specifies the installation requirements for the five categories of systems, the requirements
of the authorities having jurisdiction must also be met. In addition, care should be taken to install
equipment in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions.
2.2 Control Unit

The control unit is the brain of the system. It distributes power to the system and electrically supervises its
circuits. The control unit contains the logic circuits to receive signals from alarm initiating devices and
transmit them to alarm notification appliances, building fire safety controls, and supplementary equipment.
Depending on system design, the fire alarm signaling function may provide for one or more of the
following:

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a. Notifying all building occupants simultaneously

b. Notifying occupants in certain portions of the building who are in immediate danger
c. Notifying key building personnel
d. Notifying the fire department
e. Activating building fire safety control and supplementary functions during fire emergencies
2.3 Notification Methods

When non-coded, master coded, and march-time coded
systems are used, the standard audible emergency
evacuation (temporal code 3) is also used. Coded, selective
coded, and zone coded systems, if also required to notify
occupants of the need to vacate the premises, must have
their coded location signals followed by the standard audible
emergency evacuation signals.
NOTE: The following sections describe the traditional audible signals

that were sounded by systems before NFPA 72 required the standard
audible emergency evacuation signal be used whenever the intent of
the audible alarm signal was to notify the occupants of the building of
the need to evacuate (leave the building).
2.3.1 Non-coded System

A non-coded system is one in which a steady (non-coded) fire
alarm signal is continuously transmitted. The fire alarm
notification appliances may be manually or automatically
restored to normal (silenced).
Figure 2-1 Fire alarm voice control
NOTE: Restoring the system to normal, following a fire alarm, may unit
involve the resetting of detection devices and the control unit, and is
implied in all of the following descriptions.
2.3.2 Zoned Non-coded System

A zoned non-coded system provides for the continuous transmission of the fire alarm signal as in a non-
coded system, but also incorporates an annunciator or display to indicate the exact area, or zone, of the
building from which the alarm originated.
Before continuing with the description of a variety of coded system types, it should be recognized that coded
systems use a coding device, which may be electromechanical or electronic in nature, to produce a
predetermined, patterned, and distinctive fire alarm signal. The coding mechanism may be integral to the
control unit, it may be employed in a coded manual fire alarm box, or it may be used in a coded transmitter
device to which non-coded manual and automatic fire detection devices are connected.
2.3.3 Coded System

A coded system is one in which no fewer than three rounds of coded fire alarm signals are transmitted, after
which the fire alarm system may be manually or automatically restored to normal. (Also see section 2.3.6).
Each round of a coded alarm signal must include no fewer than three coded impulses per round.

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2.3.4 Master Coded System

A master coded system is one in which the coding mechanism provides for the transmission of the same
common-coded fire alarm signal in response to the initiation of an alarm from any location in the building.
Common code (e.g., 4-4) should be selected to produce a distinctive pulsing of the system's alarm
notification appliances so that building occupants know unmistakably that a fire condition exists.
2.3.5 March-Time Coded System

A march-time coded system is actually a non-coded system that operates much like the master coded,
system except that the coding mechanism is arranged to produce a fire alarm signal at a march-time rate
with equal on and off signal durations (i.e., 120, 90, 60, or 20 pulses per minute).
2.3.6 Selective Coded System

A selective coded system is one in which a number of code transmitters or remotely mounted devices, or
both, are used; the coding mechanism for each coded unit is systematically selected and organized to
produce its own distinctive coded alarm signal identifying its location (floor or zone) in the system. In this
way, the sounding of a fire alarm signal notifies the building occupants of an alarm of fire, and, at the
same time, notifies key building personnel, such as an in-house fire brigade, of the location from which
the alarm was initiated. Normally, three or four rounds of the selective code are sounded.
2.3.7 Temporal Code 3 Pattern

The use of the distinctive three-pulse temporal pattern fire alarm evacuation signal, required by NFPA 72,
became effective July 1, 1996, for new systems installed after that date. According to ANSI/ASA S3.41, a
temporal pattern consists of the following:
(1) An on phase lasting 0.5 seconds ±10 percent.

(2) An off phase lasting 0.5 seconds ±10 percent, for three successive “on” periods.
(3) An off phase lasting 1.5 seconds ±10 percent. The signal should be repeated for a period that is
appropriate for the purposes of evacuation of the building, but for not less than 180 seconds. A
single-stroke bell or chime sounded at “on” intervals lasting 1 second ±10 percent, with a 2-second
±10 percent “off” interval after each third “on” stroke, is permitted. The minimum repetition time is
permitted to be manually interrupted.
For systems that use single-stroke coded bells or chimes, the following distinctive Code 3 pattern is
permitted:
(1) An on phase lasting 1 second ±10 percent

(2) An off phase after lasting 2 seconds ±10 percent after each third “on” stroke
In the 2013 edition of NFPA 72, the use of the distinctive Temporal Code 3 signal was expanded to
include both evacuation and relocation signals.
2.3.8 Zoned Coded System

A zoned coded system also alerts both the building occupants and key building personnel. While the
audible alarms in a zoned coded system function identically to those in a selective coded system, zoned
coded systems generally are less specific about the origin of the signal. As its name implies, the signal
denotes only the general area or zone from which one or more different detection devices may have
initiated the alarm.

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2.4 Emergency Communication Systems (ECS)

An emergency communication system is a system provided for protection of life, which is accomplished
by indicating the existence of an emergency situation and communicating the information necessary to
facilitate an appropriate action and response. Multiple methods may be employed to communicate the
existence of an emergency condition, such as audible, visible, textual, or any combination thereof. This
manual will focus on the in-building fire emergency voice/alarm communication system requirements,
which includes emergency/voice alarm communications service within buildings where the notification
appliances are loudspeakers and can use any recorded sound and/or live or recorded voice to direct
building occupants to either evacuate the building or move to a place of safety, or provide other
information about the emergency.
Since the loudspeakers may reproduce any programmed sound, a basic system can emulate any of the
systems described in section 2.3, in addition to having the live or recorded voice capability.
See 2.12.3 for additional information on emergency voice/alarm communications systems.
2.5 Control Unit Operation

A fire alarm control unit may be a simple, single-zone unit providing for one alarm IDC (IDC) and one
alarm NAC. However, most control units are modular in construction and are designed to accommodate
multiple zones of detection and alarm notification, as well as the selection of other modular components
to perform any of the system functions listed in section 2.1.
Figure 2-2 Examples of fire alarm control units
Fire alarm systems must perform in an emergency. For this reason, the control unit constantly monitors
and supervises the integrity of the primary (main) power supply, the secondary (standby) power supply,
and the installation wires and the connections of the alarm initiating devices and alarm notification
appliances to the initiating device and NAC. The control unit will sound a trouble signal to alert operating
personnel when a fault condition exists on any of the monitored circuits that prevents normal circuit
operation.
The trouble signal will sound within 200 seconds to indicate any of the following types of faults:
a. Loss of primary (main) power

b. Loss of secondary (standby) power (monitoring of the secondary (standby) power supply was first
required in the 1993 edition of NFPA 72)

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NOTE: NFPA 72 contains important exceptions to the requirement for a secondary power supply where the
building is served by, and the fire alarm system is connected to, an emergency power system meeting the
requirements of NFPA 110 Standard for Emergency and Standby Power Systems, Chapter 4, for a Type
10, Class 24, Level 1 system.
c. Battery charger failure

d. Low battery condition
e. An open in a monitored wire
f. A ground on a monitored wire or power supply output where a single ground fault would prevent the
required normal operation of the system
g. Loss of an audio amplifier, microphone, tone generator, or preamplifier
h. A short across an alarm NAC or SLC
i. Loss of connection between any installation wire and any alarm initiating device wire or terminal
necessary to initiate an alarm
j. Loss of connection between any installation wire and any alarm notification appliance wire or
terminal necessary to indicate the alarm signal
k. Trouble conditions for supervising station and public emergency alarm reporting equipment
Any one of the foregoing faults could interfere with the proper transmission or receipt of an automatic or
manual alarm signal.
A trouble condition requires both audible and visible trouble signals to be indicated within 200 seconds at
the following locations:
a. Fire alarm control unit for protected premises alarm systems

b. Building fire command center for in-building fire emergency voice/alarm communications systems
c. Central station or remote station location for systems installed in compliance with chapter 26,
Supervising Station Alarm Systems
A single audible trouble signal is permitted to annunciate multiple fault conditions. Trouble conditions also
may be recorded on a system printer, if used.
A means for silencing audible trouble signals is permitted, provided it is key-operated or located within a
locked cabinet. When silenced, subsequent trouble signals must cause the audible trouble signal to re-
activate. Depending upon control unit design, a trouble signal silencing switch that remains in a
deactivated position may be provided (this is traditionally applicable to older fire alarm control units). If the
trouble can be silenced in this manner, a trouble light must be provided that is to remain lighted until the
cause of the trouble is corrected. The audible trouble signal will sound if the switch is in the silence
position and no trouble exists. Most systems today use a momentary switch to silence audible trouble
signals, allowing the audible trouble signals to resound upon the initiation of a new trouble condition. In
addition to the foregoing trouble indications, the control unit may contain additional visible trouble
indicators that pinpoint the particular circuits or zones that are in trouble. Trouble conditions also may be
recorded on a system printer, if used.
It should be noted here that the requirement for a fire alarm system to monitor (supervise) the integrity of its
interconnecting wiring and connections is the major difference between the installation of a fire alarm system
and the installation of the more general wiring in a building. Most problems encountered during the startup of
a fire alarm system are traced to errors made in the installation wiring or connections, or both. It is, therefore,
extremely important to follow the manufacturer's published instructions when installing a fire alarm system.
Caution should be used in interpretation of the term "supplementary." By definition, such circuits are not a
required part of the fire alarm systems and must be so specifically declared by the authority having
jurisdiction (AHJ) for the project involved.

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More detailed information on circuits and functions that must be monitored can be found in the National
Electrical Code (NEC), NFPA 70 Article 760, and NFPA 72 for the type of system being installed.
The control unit is usually installed in a listed surface or flush wall-mounted cabinet, a floor-mounted cabinet,
or a desk-type console, depending upon the size of the system and the manufacturer. Normally, a lock is
provided for security to access the controls.
2.6 Circuits and Pathways

NFPA 72 chapter 12, Circuits and Pathways, addresses the performance and survivability requirements
of circuits and pathways for fire alarm and signaling systems. Class A, class B, and class X designations
are most commonly used for fire alarm systems. For class B pathways, on a single open fault condition a
trouble signal is reported to the control unit and operational capability is lost for all equipment connected
beyond the open circuit. For class A pathways, on a single open fault condition a trouble is reported to the
control unit and full operational capability for all equipment on the circuit is maintained.
Short-circuit fault conditions on IDCs are not recognized by the control unit as a trouble signal since a
short on an IDC is designed to report an alarm condition. Short-circuit fault conditions on NACs and SLCs
are recognized by the control unit as a trouble signal because they affect the intended operation of the
circuit.
Though short-circuit faults occur less frequently than opens or grounds, their effect can be more
catastrophic. A short-circuit on an IDC most often results in a nuisance alarm, which can have serious
consequences when certain types of occupancies are unnecessarily evacuated. Of even greater
consequence are short-circuit faults on SLCs and NACs, which could, in certain instances, cause the loss
of the entire system. For this reason, the class X (formally style 7) pathway designation in chapter 12
requires the operational capability of all equipment on the circuit to be maintained on a single short-circuit
fault condition.
These classifications are not incompatible and can be either used independently or combined within a
system to specify the desired performance. In some systems, only class B circuits may be adequate to
cover the desired performance. Where it is desired to require more stringent circuit performance
characteristics, class A or class X circuits may need to be considered.
NFPA 72 also requires that class A and class X circuits using physical conductors (metallic or optical
fiber) be installed such that the outgoing and return conductors exiting from and returning to the control
unit respectively are routed separately. The outgoing and return (redundant) circuit conductors are not
permitted to be run in the same cable assembly (multi-conductor cable), enclosure, or raceway.
NOTE: There are at least three exceptions to this requirement in NFPA 72, so the appropriate exception should be
referenced for the exact requirements.
2.7 Initiating Device Circuits (IDCs)

IDCs are those to which automatic or manual initiating devices are connected. The commonly used types
of circuits are described in the sections 2.7.1 and 2.7.2.
2.7.1 Two-Wire, Class B Circuit, using Initiating Devices and an End-Of-Line Device
This is termed a class B circuit (see figure 2-3). Monitoring of this circuit is accomplished by passing a low
current through the installation wires and end-of-line device. Any interruption of this current will cause the
trouble signal to operate.

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Figure 2-3 Two-wire class B initiating device circuit with end-of-line resistor
2.7.2 Four-Wire, Class A Circuit, using Initiating Devices

In a class A circuit, the initiating devices are connected across two of the wires. After the last device these
two wires are brought back directly to the control unit. If the wires terminate within the control unit with
only an end-of-line device, the circuit is termed class B. Additional circuitry allows class A operation of the
circuit despite the occurrence of a single open or ground in that circuit. With this additional circuitry, the
circuit is termed a class A circuit (see figure 2-4). It may be necessary to refer to the manufacturer's
operating manual or drawings to determine whether a circuit is a class A wired, class B, or a true class A
circuit.
Figure 2-4 Four-wire class A initiating device circuit with return run to panel
2.8 Notification Appliance Circuits (NACs)

NACs are circuits that can operate a variety of appliances such as bells, horns, chimes, buzzers, and
speakers to signal an alarm condition. Visible appliances such as strobe or other lamp types may also be
used on these circuits. Notification appliances used in fire alarm systems must be listed for such use.
Common NACs types are described in sections 2.8.1–2.8.3.
2.8.1 Two-Wire, Class B, Direct Current Notification Appliance Circuits

These circuits normally have polarized alarm notification appliances wired in parallel on the circuit. Similar
to class B IDCs, class B NACs have an end-of-line device (see figure 2-5). Each notification appliance is
equipped with polarized circuitry that blocks current from flowing through the appliance in a normal (non-
alarm) condition. In normal conditions, monitoring current is allowed to flow in one direction through the
end-of-line device to monitor the circuit wires. In an alarm condition, the polarity on the circuit is reversed,
allowing current to flow through the appliances on the circuit, causing them to sound or flash. NFPA 72

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requires that line shorts also be monitored. In an open or wire-to-wire short fault condition, an audible and
visible trouble signal is reported to the control unit.
Figure 2-5 Two-wire class B notification appliance circuit using polarized DC notification
appliances
2.8.2 Two-Wire, Class B, Audio Notification Appliance Circuits

Parallel circuits are also used for speaker circuits when the fire alarm control unit is designed to sound
electronic tones or to play recorded or live voice messages. The most common method of monitoring
used in this application is similar to the example above for DC-operated appliances. Each audio appliance
is equipped with a capacitor in series with each speaker transformer coil to block the DC voltage used for
monitoring in a normal (non-alarm) condition. In normal conditions, monitoring current is allowed to flow in
one direction through the end-of-line device to monitor the circuit wires. Upon an alarm condition, the DC
power for monitoring is switched to an audio signal source that flows through the appliances on the
circuit, causing them to sound (see figure 2-6).
Figure 2-6 Two-wire class B audio notification appliance circuit using capacitor-coupled speakers
2.8.3 Four-Wire, Class A, Notification Appliance Circuits

Similar to class A IDCs, class A NACs are connected across two of the wires. After the last appliance,
these two wires are brought back directly to the control unit. If the wires terminate within the control unit
with only an end-of-line device, the circuit is termed class B. Additional circuitry may be provided that
allows class A operation of the circuit despite the occurrence of a single open or ground in that circuit.
With this additional circuitry, the circuit is termed a class A circuit (see figure 2-7). It may be necessary to
refer to the manufacturer's operating manual or drawings to determine whether a circuit is a class A
wired, class B, or a true class A circuit.

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Figure 2-7 Four-wire class A notification appliance circuit with return run to panel
2.9 Signaling Line Circuits (SLC)

The most common usage of an SLC is an addressable circuit for device-level communications or a
communications line between panels. In referring to the definitions in section 1, one should also read the
definitions for positive non-interfering and successive (PNIS) system, and shunt non-interfering (SNI)
coded system.
All of these definitions have the common intent to describe signaling from multiple “individually
identifiable” pieces of equipment (panels, devices, or appliances) over a common circuit or path, as
compared with a conventional IDC or NAC, which deals with a single identifiable circuit of initiating
devices or notification appliances. This is an important concept in fire alarm signaling.
On a conventional IDC or NAC, there is no communication between the individual devices or appliances
and the fire alarm control unit. For this reason, the integrity of the circuit wiring on these circuits is
electrically monitored for integrity through the use of end-of-line resistors.
On an SLC, each panel, device, or appliance connected to the circuit is an intelligent device that is
individually capable of communicating its status to the fire alarm control unit. The fire alarm control unit
constantly interrogates each device on the circuit, and if the expected response is not received a trouble
is reported on the control unit. Since each device is capable and required to communicate with the fire
alarm control unit, there is no need for end-of-line resistors to electrically monitor the circuit wiring for
integrity. Should a wiring fault occur that would prevent any device from communicating its status to the
control unit, a trouble will be reported. An added benefit derived from individual device communications
associated with the operation of SLCs is the ability to “T-tap” class B circuit wiring (see figure 2-8).

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Figure 2-8 Two-wire class B signaling line circuit with T-tap connection
Another common comparison is that a conventional initiating device or NAC typically has a much lower
quantity of devices and appliances that it can support, as opposed to an SLC. A fault on one circuit is not
allowed to affect the operation of other circuits. In some instances, due to the lower quantity of devices
per circuit and higher quantity of circuits used in conventional systems than addressable systems, the
survivability of a conventional system as a result of a single fault condition may be higher than that of an
addressable system, unless other design alternatives are considered. For this reason, system designers
may specify a different pathway class designation or level of performance between the two different types
of circuits, such as class B circuits, class A circuits, class B or class A circuits with short circuit isolation
modules/devices, or class X circuits (see figures 2-8 and 2-9) (for more information on circuit and
pathway class designations and their operational performance refer to NFPA 72 chapter 12).
Figure 2-9 Four-wire class A or class X signaling line circuit
2.10 Power Supplies

Fire alarm systems are required to have at least two independent and reliable sources of electrical power:
a primary (main) power supply to operate the system and a secondary (standby) power supply to operate
the system in the event of failure of the primary (main) power supply.
The secondary power supply must be able to sound trouble signals in the event of loss of the primary
(main) power. NFPA 72 does not permit a primary battery (dry cells) to be used for this purpose.

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Power supplies are more fully described in NFPA 72, section 10.6, 2013 edition.
2.11 Supplementary Circuits and Devices

Supplementary refers to equipment or operations not required by code and designated as such by the
AHJ. Supplementary circuits and devices are intended to augment, and not affect, the operation of the
system required by code and may consist of the following:
a. Annunciators (not required by code)

b. Notification appliances (not required by code)
c. Printers (not required by code)
d. Certain power-down or control functions (not required by code)
e. Off-premise transmission of real-time data (not required by code)
These circuits may be unmonitored, provided the equipment to which they are connected is not required
by code. They are designated as supplementary by the AHJ, and a short-circuit, open, or ground fault in
the circuit cannot affect the required operation of the fire alarm system.
2.12 Types of Control Systems

2.12.1 Protected Premises (Local) Fire Alarm System (Chapter 23, NFPA 72)
A protected premises fire alarm system provides protection of life or property, or both, by indicating the
existence of heat, fire, smoke, or other emergencies at the protected premises. In addition, it provides for
one or more of the following:
a. Manual fire alarm signal initiation

b. Automatic fire alarm and supervisory signal initiation
c. Monitoring of abnormal conditions in fire suppression systems
d. Activation of fire suppression systems
e. Activation of emergency control functions
f. Activation of fire alarm notification appliances
g. In-building fire emergency voice/alarm communications
h. Guard’s tour supervisory service
i. Process monitoring supervisory systems
j. Activation of off-premises signals
k. Combination systems

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Figure 2-10 Example of a fire alarm control unit used as a protected premises system
2.12.2 Dedicated Function Fire Alarm Systems and Emergency Control Functions
In facilities without a building fire alarm system, a “dedicated function” fire alarm system is permitted. A
dedicated function fire alarm system is intended to provide a specific emergency control function (e.g.,
sprinkler alarm and supervisory control, elevator and supervisory control, etc.) in a building where a building
fire alarm system is not required. Dedicated function fire alarm systems are not required to include other
functions or features of a building fire alarm system. However, when a dedicated function fire alarm system
exists and a building fire alarm system is subsequently installed, the systems must be interconnected and
comply with NFPA 72 chapter 23 requirements for fire alarm control units.
2.12.2.1 Emergency Control Function Interfaces
NFPA 72 contains many requirements that apply to safety control equipment within the protected premises
that do not detect fires or notify people but do make the premises safer for the occupants from the effects of
fire. In most cases, these control functions are required by local codes and ordinances and, therefore, must
have their installation wires monitored for integrity (with very few exceptions) and meet the requirements
found in chapter 21 of NFPA 72. The exceptions are limited to those devices that operate in a failsafe manner
during a circuit fault to release the control device (e.g., door release).
Elevator recall service is functionally described in detail in NFPA 72 chapter 21, not only for monitoring for
integrity but also for sequence of operation, including occupant evacuation.
In general, because of the many methods used by various manufacturers of the control devices, no specific
wiring is detailed in this manual except where the wiring makes the function required clearer. Generally, the
interface is a normally open or normally closed auxiliary relay contact on one of the fire alarm system
components. However, NFPA 72 also permits data transfer to control devices or systems through listed data
ports. NFPA 72 also requires that the control device be listed as compatible with the control unit, so as to not
interfere with the control unit's operation. It is extremely important that the installer follow the manufacturer's
published installation instructions.

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2.12.3 In-Building Fire Emergency Voice/Alarm Communications Systems (Chapter 24, NFPA 72)
Fire alarm systems with emergency voice/alarm communications service are used to indicate the existence of
an emergency situation and communicate information necessary to facilitate an appropriate response and
action through prerecorded or live voice communications.
A one-way system provides automatic notification of a fire alarm

or other emergency condition, using prerecorded voice tones and
messages. It also permits emergency personnel to give voice
instructions on either a selective or an all-call basis, using a
microphone and system of loudspeakers. Its use came about with
the advent of high-rise buildings and other structures where
immediate evacuation of the entire building might be impractical
and the fire plan called for selective partial evacuation and/or the
relocation of building occupants from the affected fire zones.
A two-way system, using telephone or intercom techniques,

permits communications between fire service personnel while
investigating or fighting a fire in the building. Most two-way
systems use telephones located in fire stairwells so that the fire
service personnel can talk from any floor to the fire command
station. These telephones are also permitted to be used by other
building occupants and are frequently installed on all floors for use
in emergency circumstances. A notification signal, distinctive from
any other alarm or trouble signal, is required at the fire command Figure 2-11 Example of an in-
station to indicate an off-hook (call-in) condition of any telephone building fire emergency
on the system. voice/alarm communications
system
Emergency voice/alarm communications take three basic forms:
a. A system that stands alone and is manually controlled. Voice or tone signals can be selected and
distributed by operator choice.
b. A system that is integrated into a full fire alarm system. Voice or tone signals can be selected and
distributed manually or automatically.
c. A system used for mass notification, which, based upon the emergency response plan, can take
occupant notification precedence over the fire alarm system.
2.12.4 Combination Systems

NFPA 72 permits combination systems in which the fire alarm system shares components, equipment, and
circuitry with non-fire alarm systems. The non-fire alarm equipment does not have to be listed for fire alarm
use where it does not perform a required fire alarm system function. Where common wiring is used between
the fire alarm and non-fire alarm systems, short circuits, open circuits, or grounds on the shared wiring or
within the non-fire alarm equipment must not prevent normal operation of the fire alarm system and all
equipment and pathways are required to be maintained by a single service organization.
Some fire alarm systems are monitored by computers that may not be a part of the fire alarm system itself. In
such cases, the removal, replacement, failure, or maintenance procedure of any hardware, software, or
circuit not required to perform the fire alarm system functions must not cause loss of any of the fire alarm
functions. These requirements do not apply where the computer equipment, software, and circuitry are all
listed for the purpose.

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2.12.5 Interconnected Fire Alarm Control Units

Many fire alarm installations are provided as extensions to existing systems, requiring the installer to
interconnect control unit wiring of two or more fire alarm systems built by the same or different manufacturers.
For many years, there have been questions about the propriety of such installations since the NFPA 72
standards basically describe single systems.
NFPA 72 now specifically permits such installations by detailing the requirements that must be met when two
or more control units are interconnected. NFPA 72 requires the interconnected control units to function as a
single system (exception: where the building is not served by a building fire alarm system, independent
dedicated function fire alarm systems and/or releasing fire alarm systems shall not be required to be
interconnected to function as a single system).
2.12.6 Emergency Communications Systems

The world and operation of emergency communication systems has changed and continues to evolve. An
emergency communications system could target the general building, area, space, campus, or region.
This paradigm shift is reflected in the title change of the NFPA 72 to the Fire Alarm and Signaling Code.
Building emergency voice evacuation systems (EVACS) entered the code and market in the early 1980s.
With the occurrence of natural and terrorist activities in recent years, the fire life safety standards have
evolved to provide emergency real-time reliable communication inside our buildings, outside our
buildings, and at our sides (e.g., laptop, text messaging).
NFPA 72 from 2010 and beyond has placed all requirements for ECS in a new chapter 24. Those with
design and application responsibilities for all types of ECS need to read this chapter in detail, along with
the annex, to fully capture the scope of these requirements. An emergency communications system is
intended to communicate information about emergencies, including, but not limited to, fire and human-
caused events (accidental and intentional).
ECS shall consist of two classifications of systems, one-way and two-way. These are broad
classifications, and the code breaks each down into many sections, as illustrated in the following chart
excerpted from the annex of NFPA 72.

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Figure 2-12 Energy communications systems classification
2.12.6.1 One-Way Emergency Communications System

An in-building fire emergency voice/alarm communications system (EVACS) is considered the traditional
voice alarm communication system used as notification for a fire safety event in a building. It consists of a
control panel with microphone, selector switches for zones/areas of the building, and amplifiers to power
the voice speakers, located throughout the premises to provide both audibility and intelligibility of the
voice messages. Systems can be arranged to perform as follows:
a. A system that stands alone and is manually controlled. Voice or tone signals can be selected and
distributed by operator choice.
b. A system that is integrated into a full fire alarm system. Voice or tone signals can be selected and
distributed manually or automatically.
2.12.6.2 In-Building Mass Notification Systems

An in-building mass notification system (MNS) is described as a system used to provide information and
instructions to people in a building(s) or other space, using intelligible voice communications and
including visible signals, text, graphics, tactile, or other communication methods. This system goes
beyond a fire emergency, including, but not limited to, weather, terrorist, shooter, bombing, civil unrest,
and occurrence where getting immediate real time information to the occupants is a matter of life safety.
Real-time instructions on the event, the action to take, and regular updates are needed.
There is a significant amount of research done and papers written on the content of the message, the
length, times repeated, and other aspects of the live and recorded messages.
An in-building MNS shall include one or more of the following components:
a. Autonomous control unit (ACU)

b. Local operating console (LOC)

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c. Fire alarm control interface

d. Notification appliance network
e. Initiating devices
f. Interface to other systems and alerting sources
For the first time in NFPA 72 codes, there are provisions that allow an MNS signal to override the fire
alarm notification signal. This gives the MNS signal the highest priority in emergencies when multiple
activities are taken place. However, you should refer to the facilities emergency response plan and risk
assessment to determine when and if the MNS signal should override the fire alarm signal.
2.12.6.3 Wide-Area Mass Notification System

Wide-area MNS are generally installed to provide real-time information to outdoor areas and could have
the capability to communicate with other notification systems provided for a campus, military base,
municipality, or similar single or multiple contiguous areas. These are generally the large, high-powered
speaker arrays found on campuses, national parks, large outdoor areas, and similar locations where
people gather and the need to provide direction and information to people is important.
2.12.6.4 Distributed Recipient Mass Notification Systems (DRMNS)

DRMNS are meant to communicate directly to targeted individuals and groups that might not be in a
contiguous area. DRMNS alerting shall not be used in lieu of required audible and visible alerting MNS
but shall be integrated with MNS whenever possible. See section 2.12.6.5 below.
These systems are generally the mass messaging systems that allow a building to send text messages to
cell phones and pagers of the masses on important information. These are also messages sent to
computers, laptops, and tablets within a building to provide information directly to the occupants.
2.12.6.5 Mass Notification Layers

The following is taken from NFPA 72-2013. It is intended to highlight the importance of one-way voice
communication systems and provide a guide for designers and owners. Layer 1 is the minimum needed,
and the system is built from there. Emergency communications used for mass notification shall be
categorized into layers and take into consideration the type of audience and reach as follows:
(1) Layer 1 relates to means of notification of occupants by systems/equipment installed inside a

building and controlled only by authorized users (in-building ECS)
(2) Layer 2 relates to means of notification of occupants on the exterior of a building and controlled
only by authorized users (wide-area MNS)
(3) Layer 3 relates to means of notification of personnel through individual measures (DRMNS)
(4) Layer 4 relates to means of notification of personnel by public measures
2.12.6.6 Intelligible Voice Messages

Emergency communications systems are required to produce prerecorded, synthesized, or live (e.g.,
microphone, telephone handset, and radio) messages with voice intelligibility. In the past, we focused on
“audibility”, and this feature is still required and important. But today, with MNS and increased presence of
emergency communication systems, it is very important that the occupants clearly understand the
emergency messages and take the appropriate actions in real time.
NFPA 72 addresses intelligibility in annex D. This annex is intended to provide guidance on the planning,
design, installation, and testing of voice communication systems. The majority of this annex contains
recommendations for testing the intelligibility of voice systems.

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It is important to understand that the current codes do not require “measured” levels of intelligibility. They
just state the system must be understandable; some call this the “smart ear” approach. It should be noted
that some owners, such as the department of defense, the general services administrations, and some
local jurisdictions or project specifications, will require a measured intelligibility test and performance.
Annex D will be of value in these cases.
Another resource that addresses intelligibility is NEMA SB 50 Emergency Communications Audio

Intelligibility Applications Guide.
2.12.6.7 Risk Analysis for Mass Notification Systems

Each application of an MNS shall be specific to the nature and anticipated risks of each facility for which it
is designed. The designer shall consider both fire and non-fire emergencies when determining risk
tolerances for survivability for the MNS.
2.12.6.8 Emergency Response Plan

A well-defined emergency response plan shall be developed in accordance with NFPA 1600, Standard on
Disaster/Emergency Management and Business Continuity Programs, and NFPA 1620, Standard for Pre-
Incident Planning, as part of the design and implementation of an MNS.
2.12.7 Supervising Station Alarm Systems (Chapter 26, NFPA 72)

For any fire alarm system required by code that sends signals to a supervising station, the entire system
is considered to be a supervising station alarm system. A supervision station is a facility where personnel
are in attendance at all times to respond to signals received from protected premise alarm systems. There
are three types of supervising station alarm systems;
a. Central station service alarm systems

b. Proprietary supervising station alarm systems
c. Remote supervising station alarm systems
2.12.8 Central Station Service Alarm Systems (Chapter 26, NFPA 72)
A central station service alarm system receives signals from alarm and supervisory signaling devices at a
protected premise. This service is contracted by the owner or manager of the protected premise and the
response to the signals is determined by the type provided. A central station service fire alarm system
provides the following service elements:
a. Installation of alarm transmitters

b. Alarm, guard, supervisory, and trouble signal monitoring; such as the following:
i. Waterflow alarm: dispatch the fire department upon the activation of a sprinkler system
ii. Sprinkler supervisory: notify building maintenance personnel when a fire sprinkler system
has been disabled by actions such as closing a valve
iii. Guard's tour supervisory: notify building personnel when a guard's tour is not completed on
time
iv. Manual fire alarm: dispatch the fire department when a manual fire alarm box has been
activated
v. Automatic fire alarm detection: dispatch the fire department when an automatic fire detector
goes into alarm
c. Retransmission of alarms to the fire department
d. Associated record keeping and reporting
e. Testing and maintenance
f. Runner service

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Each service element of central station service must be provided under a contract with a listed central station
or a listed fire alarm service local company that subcontracts the monitoring, retransmission, and associated
recordkeeping to a listed central station. The central station shall indicate that all the requirements of the fire
alarm code are met by either certification or placarding through a third-party verification service.
2.12.9 Proprietary Supervising Station Alarm Systems (Chapter 26, NFPA 72)
A proprietary supervising station alarm system serves either single or multiple contiguous or noncontiguous
properties under one ownership. The proprietary supervising station requires portable fire extinguishers and
an automatic emergency lighting system and must be located in one of the following:
a. A fire-resistive, detached building

b. A fire-resistive room protected from the hazardous parts of the building
At least two trained operators, responsible to the property owner, are required to be on duty at all times (one
operator is permitted to be a runner). The operator may alert an in-house fire brigade or the municipal fire
department, or both, as required by the AHJ. All signals received by the proprietary supervising station that
show a change of status must be automatically and permanently recorded, including time and date of
occurrence.
Access to the proprietary supervising station shall be restricted to those persons directly concerned with
the implementation and direction of emergency action and procedure.
2.12.10 Remote Supervising Station Alarm Systems (Chapter 26, NFPA 72)
A remote supervising station alarm system is allowed where central station service is neither required nor
elected. Remote supervising stations remotely serve properties under various ownerships. These systems
require facilities, equipment, operating personnel, response, retransmission, signals, reports, and testing in
accordance with the requirements of NFPA 72 section 26.5. At least two trained operators are required to be
on duty at all times. Property owners using remote station alarm systems must provide annual documentation
to the AHJ identifying the party responsible for the inspection, testing, and maintenance requirements of
NFPA 72 chapter 14.
The remote supervising station system provides an alternative method of connecting a fire alarm system
directly to the municipal communications center over lines other than the municipal fire alarm circuits. Usually
this means a separate pair of telephone wires, leased from the telephone company, between each property
and the municipal communications center. Permission must be obtained from the AHJ. Generally, these are
non-coded systems, which use individual pilot lights or LEDs to identify the property from which the alarm
originated (see figures 2-13 and 2-14).

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Figure 2-13 Remote supervising station fire alarm system schematic diagram
Figure 2-14 Remote supervising station fire alarm system riser diagram
There are two types of non-coded remote supervising station systems. The first is the "reverse-polarity"
type in which power for the leased circuit originates at the fire alarm control unit (FACU) on the protected
premises. In the event of an alarm, the polarity of the leased line is reversed, energizing a polarized relay
in the receiving equipment at the municipal communications center, thereby lighting a light identifying the
location from which the alarm originated and actuating an alarm-sounding appliance. The leased lines
between the system at the protected premises and the municipal communications center are electrically
monitored and supervised for integrity.
The second type uses differential current relays or equivalent circuits. A small monitoring current flows
through the leased wire and an end-of-line resistor at the protected premises. When an alarm is actuated,
a relay contact shorts out the end-of-line resistor, causing the current to increase sufficiently to pick up or
energize an alarm relay at the municipal communications center. This, in turn, lights a pilot light and
sounds the alarm appliance. The system can be powered from either end of the line.
For either system, the receiving unit at the municipal communications center can be a single-station or
multiple-station receiver with separate alarm indicators and individual pairs of wires for each protected
property. Because of the small gauge of the leased circuit wire, loop resistance is an important factor and
must be determined prior to specifying the equipment. Long lines having up to 4,000 ohms loop

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resistance, for example, may require different equipment or power supplies, or both, than a circuit of only
500 ohms loop resistance.
2.12.11 Public Emergency Alarm Reporting Systems (Chapter 27, NFPA 72)
Where a protected premises fire alarm system or other emergency system at the protected premises has its
signals sent to a communications center via public emergency alarm reporting system, the protected
premises system becomes an auxiliary alarm system. The requirements for public emergency alarm reporting
systems, auxiliary alarm systems, and the associated transmission and reception of alarm and other
emergency signals are identified in NFPA 72 chapter 27. All circuits, paths, and equipment necessary for the
receipt of signals from a protected premise must be monitored and supervised for integrity.
Public emergency alarm reporting systems consist of alarm boxes and alarm processing equipment that
communicate on a wired or wireless network(s), one-way or two-way. This includes systems that use a
communications infrastructure that is publicly owned, operated, and controlled or in which public emergency
alarm reporting systems and equipment are used in other applications.
The alarm processing equipment required to receive and control the public emergency alarm reporting
system must be installed in the communications center or remote communications center used by
emergency response agencies in accordance with NFPA 1221, Standard for the Installation, Maintenance,
and Use of Emergency Services Communications Systems.
There are two types of auxiliary systems in common use. One is a local energy auxiliary alarm system that
uses power from the protected premises system to automatically trip a transmitter or master box connected to
the municipal public fire service communications system (see figure 2-15).
Figure 2-15 Local energy auxiliary alarm system
NOTE: Figure adapted with permission from NFPA 72-2013, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, copyright 2012,
National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, Massachusetts. This reprinted material is not the complete and official
position of the NFPA on the referenced subject, which is represented only by the standard in its entirety.
The other type is a shunt auxiliary alarm system with isolated closed contacts controlled by the protected
premises fire alarm system or alarm initiating devices connected directly to a municipal transmitter or master
box. Power from the municipal system loop is used to trip the transmitter (see figure 2-16).

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Figure 2-16 Shunt auxiliary alarm system
NOTE: Figure adapted with permission from NFPA 72-2013, National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, Copyright © 2012,
National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, Massachusetts. This reprinted material is not the complete and official
position of the NFPA on the referenced subject, which is represented only by the standard in its entirety.

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Section 3
Fire Alarm System Concepts
3.1 General
Section 2 dealt with basic fire alarm systems. This included the function of the control unit, the designations of
different types of systems, and details of various approaches to wiring initiating devices and NACs.
All of the systems described and their installation techniques could be supported by control units using simple
relay circuitry. Small systems may still be best implemented that way. New technology has given
manufacturers the opportunity to apply computer-controlled devices that can work much faster and perform
more work to make people in a building safer from the many dangers that exist, including fire and other
emergencies.
While most intelligent or smart detectors or sensors are defined in section 1, section 3 introduces these
subjects so that those responsible for the physical installation of fire alarm systems that use these advanced
technologies will have a working understanding of the concepts involved.
3.2 Multiplexing or Networking

In addition to reading the definition for multiplexing in section 1, the reader should review the information in
section 2.8. It can be seen that essentially, the term "multiplexing" is used to describe the operation of an
SLC and usually identifies the systems that use computer techniques for data handling and communications
between components on the installation wiring circuits.
Understanding the basic principles of a multiplex system can help the designer and installer in bridging the
gap between fire alarm system concepts with which one may be familiar and the hardware/software used in
implementing multiplex systems. The specifier and installer should be familiar with the concepts of the
signaling methodology and not necessarily the complex details of the new types of circuits involved.
Similarly, the installer should understand that, where this manual makes reference to installation wiring and
various types of physical wire circuits, such circuits may actually be considered to be signaling pathways that
could be either radio or optical fiber pathways. With the new technologies, no physical pathway needs to exist
for initiating and SLCs, and reference to the physical wire pathways is purely to facilitate the understanding of
the signaling techniques involved. Most systems now being installed still use physical wire paths.
The new technology systems, for the most part, use the basic capabilities of computers and borrow heavily
from telephone signaling methods.
An important function that multiplex systems have added to fire alarm signaling systems is the capability to
construct systems that use a common SLC to gather information from many types of input devices (such as
manual fire alarm boxes, fire detection devices, and supervisory devices) and distribute appropriate control
action commands to output devices (such as relays and alarm notification appliances) at very high speeds.
Signaling technology makes use of radio signaling paths practical because it makes it possible to monitor
signaling pathways with a high degree of reliability without using wires.
In addition, the cost and size of components have shrunk, so it is possible to construct devices that
incorporate several functions, giving rise to the proliferation of addressable and analog devices as described
in subsequent paragraphs.
A basic multiplex system block diagram is shown in figure 3-1. The SLC can use any number of wires or
other types of circuit paths. Two to four wires are most common. In addition, power supply wiring may be
required for the input (initiating) devices and output (notification or control relay) appliances.

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Figure 3-1 Basic multiplex system block diagram showing initiating device circuits connected to
circuit interfaces and to a signaling line circuit
3.3 Circuit Interfaces (Transponders, Data Gathering Panels)

The assembly that connects each of the initiating, notification, and control circuits to the SLC is known as a
circuit interface. The term transponder is also used to describe this unit. A circuit interface may have one or
more initiating devices, notification appliances, or control circuits connected to it. In figure 3-1, circuit
interfaces are shown "connecting" IDCs to an SLC.
As required by the definition in section 1, each circuit interface must have the capability of separately
indicating the status of each connected IDC. All connected NACs and control output circuits can be
individually actuated and monitored by the control unit.
Normally, the circuit interface is an assembly of solid-state components capable of working at high speeds.
The high speed permits the system to report individual alarms and other conditions in a short time, thereby
making it possible for a large number of initiating devices, notification appliances, and control circuits to be
connected to an SLC.
For proprietary supervising station systems, the maximum elapsed time from sensing a fire alarm at an
initiating device until it is recorded or displayed at the proprietary supervising station may not exceed 10
seconds. Subsequent fire alarm signals must be recorded or displayed at intervals not exceeding 10
seconds, even when signals other than fire alarms are being originated simultaneously. Timing is important
because fire alarm standards permit monitoring of other functions within a building that may not be related to
fire alarm signaling. It would not be wise to have a fire reporting system that had many non-fire alarm inputs
delay the timely receipt and display of fire alarm signals. With today's components and computer techniques,
the slowest part of any system is usually a printer, if used, and the reaction time of any attendants receiving
the signals.
3.4 Multiplexed or Networked Outputs

Up to this point, we have described a multiplex or networked system that has multiple initiating circuits
inputting signals from multiple locations onto the SLC and transmitting them to a control unit. Now consider
that the SLC is merely a communications path. In some manner, the circuit interfaces have placed signals on
the SLC to be interpreted at the control unit.

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Consider a computer network, where any computer can communicate with any other computer, as well as
the server, and the server can communicate with any computer on the network. At each location, there is
capability for input as well as output.
Similarly, circuit interfaces on an SLC can be operated in networked mode. Addressing information can be
sent from a control unit on the signaling line that causes individual circuit interfaces on the same line to
respond with the status of its connected IDCs. Or, a circuit interface may originate the address, type of
device, and status data that may be read by the control unit. The control unit may also send address and
commands to notification appliance and control circuits connected to a circuit interface. On some more
complex systems, data from one circuit interface may be read by all circuit interfaces and cause selective
action at one or more of the circuit interfaces.
Figure 3-2 shows a block diagram where both an initiating device and an NAC are connected to the analog
addressable SLC through the same circuit interface. A circuit interface can connect the initiating device, alarm
notification appliance, and control circuits or combinations of the three to a SLC. One major advantage of the
technology is the reduction of wire installation costs. Essentially, figure 3-2 is the same as figure 3-1 except
that some circuit interfaces are shown with output capability to actuate notification appliances or to actuate
relays to perform control functions such as fan start-up or shutdown, door release, etc.
Figure 3-2 Basic multiplex system showing notification appliance circuits also connected to
circuit interfaces
Figure 3-3 is similar to figure 3-2, with the addition of T-tapped connections on the SLC that restricts its use to
class B applications.

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Figure 3-3 Active multiplex system using T-tapped connections
In most fire alarm systems, the input (IDC) transmits data from initiating devices that is received by the control
unit that interprets it and sends out data to specific circuit interfaces to actuate the outputs. However, on more
complex systems, using today's communications techniques, it is possible for data at any point on the SLC to
be interpreted and acted upon at any circuit interface location to create a programmed output.
3.5 Addressability
If the SLC is constructed as a network, how will the data messages be routed to the proper location? This
brings up the subject of addressability.
Let’s go back to the simple selective coded system described in section 2.8. Each code wheel sends a series
of pulses to the control unit so the control unit can determine which code wheel has been actuated. For
example, a code wheel may send two pulses, pause, one pulse, pause, then three pulses. The control unit
sees this as location 213. It is much like a house number on a street, so that the post office can properly
deliver the mail, hence the term “address.”
The address of the IDC sending the signal is 213. Circuitry within the control unit would have been arranged
to know exactly what receipt of the coded signal 213 means. In a simple system, the digital information
received could be interpreted by the control unit both for location and status. In more complex systems, there
might be more digits transmitted with some identifying the circuit reporting (address) and others to indicate
status such as alarm, trouble, or normal and some identifying the type of reporting device.
Now let’s go back to figure 3-2, where two-way signaling is used. Each circuit interface and the control unit
must be coordinated and work together so that a signal originating from any actuated initiating device can be
identified by the control unit as having originated from a device connected to that circuit interface. In a similar
manner, any signals sent from the control unit must be deciphered by the proper circuit interface in a manner
that permits the circuit interface to actuate the proper outputs. In some systems, it is possible for a signal
transmitted by one circuit interface to be read and acted upon by some other circuit interface. The addressing
techniques and system design used by the manufacturer make this possible.

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Another necessary signal component becomes evident when discussing addressable systems. The signals
sent and received must contain more information than just an address. There must be a component in the
signal transmitted by the circuit interface that not only identifies the location or address of the device but also
the status (condition) being sensed by the reporting device. The additional signal component is also
necessary when a control unit sends a signal to a circuit interface and the interface needs to take action. The
circuit interface must be told not only which output to affect (by its address) but also what the action is to be.
3.6 Intelligent (Smart) Circuit Interfaces

If a circuit interface could be programmed to take certain actions based upon the identity (address) and status
of an input signal that originates at some other circuit interface, it could then be said to be an "intelligent"
circuit interface, and the action to be taken need not be a component of the signal sent from the originating
circuit interface. Most new control units have this "intelligent" capability, but with the technology available
today, even input and output devices can be so constructed.
3.7 Programming
Programming is a procedure that assigns meaning to the codes that instruct a system to perform certain
functions. At some point, in some place, a person sat down and programmed the equipment to take certain
action upon receipt of specific signals. For example, in a simple relay circuit with three relays labeled A, B,
and C, an electrician could wire them in such a manner that relay C would be energized only when relays A
and B were both energized. In computer logic jargon, the circuit could be described as being programmed.
Today, circuits are "wired" by commands entered into a computer from a keyboard by a "programmer." They
can be readily changed by the same method. The term "software" is applied to the finished program for a
system. The basic system programming is often done by the manufacturer, but most systems today require
some programming to be done by a factory-trained technician to accommodate actual installation
requirements or changes. Software is usually easier to change than physically wired "hardware," a term used
to describe the physical parts of a system that can be seen and felt.
Often, the control unit software package is described by two related terms: system software and configuration
software. System software controls the operation of the control unit and all of its subsystems, is the same for
all control units regardless of the particular installation, and may not be changed by the installer.
Configuration software is used by the installer to “wire” the system components together as described above.
Together, system software and configuration software make up the complete functionality of the control unit.
3.8 Addressable Devices

Suppose a manufacturer, taking advantage of the small solid-state components available to him, were to
build a smoke detector and, in the same device, include a circuit that performed the circuit interface function.
He would have an initiating device that would be capable of being installed directly on SLCs, since each
initiating device could be individually identified at the control unit.
Such a device is known in the industry as an addressable device. It must be compatible with the other system
devices and the control unit so that the whole system can function as required.
The addressable devices do not have to be limited to smoke detectors. They may be other initiating devices
such as heat detectors, sprinkler waterflow alarm switches, manual fire alarm boxes, etc.
The manufacturer may also incorporate an output device, such as a relay, into a single assembly with an
initiating device. He could arrange the electronics such that the relay is actuated only when its associated
initiating device is in the alarm state. Or, the relay could be controlled by data put on the SLC from some
other system component on the SLC. The combined functional device would still be referred to as an
addressable device.

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3.9 Multiplexing Technology

Remember, functionally, the signals passed back and forth in a multiplex fire alarm system permit the system
to identify the type of device reporting, its address (which is usually mapped to its physical location in the
building), and its status. In the case of outputs, however, the signals must direct action commands to specific
locations.
There are several different methods (protocols) used by manufacturers to place their multiplex signals on an
SLC. It’s likely that no two manufacturers use the same protocol. It is beyond the scope of this manual to go
into any of these in detail.
To understand the concept of a basic multiplex system, one could examine the operation of the simple touch-
tone (push-button) telephone used in the United States. The user of a telephone pushes the keypad buttons
in a sequence identifying the number being called. Using time division multiplexing, this identifies to the
system the first, second, third, fourth, and so on, digits of the "address" he is dialing. Not only must the
sequence of the digits be known, but also their value, which is signaled to the system by the tones sent on
the line when the buttons are pushed. This is called frequency division multiplexing. So the telephone uses
both time division and frequency division multiplexing.
Many multiplex systems place a tone on the signaling line and then shift the tone in accordance with some
particular code. Here again, digital or alpha characters can be sequentially represented and decoded by
various pieces of equipment along the SLC, as required to perform the system functions. Other systems may
use the length of a particular tone as having some significance such as a quantitative value.
It can be seen that the signals on these multiplex SLCs cannot be received and interpreted without special
compatible equipment designed for that purpose on the particular system involved.
3.10 Active Multiplex

Today's multiplex systems use what the industry refers to as "active" multiplex. Each reporting point in the
system is required to send its status signal at periodic intervals. The lack of receipt of at least an "OK" or
"normal" signal from a reporting point is interpreted by the control unit as an abnormal condition for the
reporting point. This contrasts greatly from the old mechanical systems, where a spring-wound transmitter
could be bound up and unable to send an alarm signal and not cause this to be indicated by a trouble signal.
It is this feature of the active multiplex systems that in some instances permits SLCs to be T-tapped.
Referring to figure 3-3, it can be seen that if each reporting point is required to send an "OK" signal to the
control unit, all the signal paths are monitored for integrity, even though T-taps are used in the
interconnecting signaling paths.
However, the installer of a system must not assume all multiplex SLCs may be T-tapped. It depends on the
type of system being installed and the part of NFPA 72 that states the requirements. Two systems using
equipment that looks physically identical may use different signaling techniques (protocols) and require
different wiring methods. No assumptions should be made by the installer. Always follow the manufacturer's
published installation instructions.
While it is relatively easy to depict fire alarm system installation wiring, or even imagine that the signaling
paths could be optical fiber cables or radio waves, it is not easy to visualize the actual signal itself in today's
new technology systems. Specialized test equipment can be used for this purpose.
3.11 Digital Signaling

Older systems using mechanical code wheels interrupting or connecting wire paths could have their signal
made visible with a simple lamp connection, or audible, with bells or horns. These older coding systems used

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digital information such as the code 213 in the earlier example. Today's systems also use digital information
to indicate a particular reporting device's address (location), type, status, or other data. However, they do so
at a high speed and normally cannot be interpreted by human observers without specialized equipment to
capture the data and put it into humanly interpretable form. The digital data can be imposed on a hardwired
signaling path by varying the amplitude of current flow, imposing audible or inaudible frequencies, varying the
length of pulses, imposing multiple tones with a separate tone for each digit 0–9, shifting frequency of a tone,
or other techniques or combinations of the above.
Any of the methods used for encoding a signal onto a hardwired signaling path can generally also be used in
one form or another on optical fiber cable and radio signaling paths.
3.12 Analog Sensors

Now that the subject of digital signaling has been introduced, a whole new concept in automatic fire detection
can more easily be understood. Heretofore, fire detection has been primarily an on/off type of function.
Normally a contact or its equivalent closed and initiated a signal indicative of a fire condition. This could be a
manual fire alarm box, smoke or heat detector, sprinkler waterflow switch, or any other device capable of
detecting a fire condition.
Now, with the advent of economical components and the power of digital signaling unleashed, it is possible
for fire-detecting sensors to signal how much heat (temperature) or how much smoke (percent obscuration) is
being sensed by a detection device. Such devices are known as "analog" sensors because they measure
and transmit how much of the physical phenomenon caused by the fire is present even though the
transmission of the signal is digital.
In the industry, the terms "intelligent" or "smart" are frequently heard when describing these sensors. There
are two types of intelligent sensors:
a. Sensors that only send quantitative data back to a central or sub-control unit where the alarm level
decision is made. In this case, the sensing device is relatively dumb when compared to conventional
smoke detectors that can both sense smoke and decide that an alarm level has been reached.
b. Sensors that employ a microprocessor (CPU) that analyzes the signal for alarm and pre-alarm levels
and makes decisions on when or what sort of information should be sent to the central or sub-control
unit. In this type of intelligent system, both the sensor and control unit contain CPU decision-makers.
The benefits of this concept are that the communications on the SLC is greatly simplified and alarm
reporting is still possible even if the control unit CPU fails.
The use of analog sensors permits the use of a sophisticated signal analyzer at only one location, the control
unit CPU, allowing its cost to be spread over many analog devices. Using this method, the control unit
designer may be able to design faster detection into the system, while at the same time greatly reducing
unwanted alarms. For example, the control unit CPU may use signals from several sensors (typically sensors
that are physically adjacent or in the same enclosed protected space) in concert to determine with greater
certainty that there is indeed a fire threat and not an unwanted alarm. A disadvantage of this method is that
the control unit CPU must receive and process signals from all sensors and therefore requires greater
computing capability to complete the calculations within the time required for early warning.
3.13 Intelligent Systems

Assuming computer-type circuitry is used in a control unit, the control unit designer can design an algorithm
using rate of rise, sensor signal level, time delays, multiple sensor logic, or a combination of some or all these
techniques. With a sophisticated control unit, a designer can provide the ability to manually or automatically
shift the sensitivity of detectors at selected locations, depending on the time of day, day of the week, or
change in occupancy. For example, sensors in a banquet room may be shifted slightly less sensitive during

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periods of expected heavy smoking by the occupants. Such systems are frequently referred to as "intelligent
systems."
Intelligent systems can also monitor the buildup of contaminates in a sensor and indicate the need for
maintenance (cleaning or replacement) before a sensor indicates an unwanted alarm. The algorithm used
may also improve the system's ability to give warning of an incipient alarm condition at a threshold below the
alarm level.
While used principally for heat and smoke detection, any value that can be sensed and encoded into the
signal can be sent to the control unit or any other location on an SLC where equipment capable of
interpreting the signal may be located. With the proper sensing devices, this could include such things as the
level of water in a tank, the temperature at or outside loading docks or in warehouses, or the actual percent
closure of a sprinkler shutoff valve.
Figure 3-4 shows a circuit where one of the circuit interface devices is a sensor in its own right and also
monitors and reports the status of a connected subordinate IDC.
It is possible that the signal transmitted by such a device can have one address for both its own sensor and
the connected IDC; otherwise, it could have separate addresses for each. It depends on the product offered
by the manufacturer. A single analog sensor that included monitoring capability of a separate subordinate
IDC with the same address might be used in the same room with more conventional detectors without
sophisticated communications capabilities. In such an application, the size of the room may not require more
detailed location information than a single address.
Putting all of the above together, a system designer can put together a very sophisticated new technology
system, using computer techniques, high speed SLCs, binary (on/off) as well as analog sensing devices, and
information display systems, such as color video or LCD (liquid crystal display) screens and printers.
Figure 3-4 Multiplex system where nonaddressable initiating devices are connected to an
addressable initiating device that includes circuit interface
Not all such systems are implemented with large-scale computers or even the well-known personal
computer. The small size and extraordinary power of the microprocessor and its support chips make possible
economical systems in very small packages. If the information to the operator can be displayed on an
alphanumeric indicator such as used on a hand calculator, and a large number of audible or visible alarm
signaling circuits are not required, a control unit connected to thousands of sensors could be constructed in
very small space.

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3.14 Displays
Most existing systems have used individual lamp or LED-type annunciators. Many new systems are also
using the same technique. However, displays are available that give manufacturers the capability to display
more information in an alphanumeric format.
These displays have primarily taken three basic forms: flat screen displays made with light-emitting diodes
(LED), liquid crystal display (LCD), and cathode ray tubes (CRT). LCD units are most familiar because of
their use on the faces of digital watches. For fire alarm use, they are available in a variety of numbers of
characters and character sizes.
Using displays, the designer can present alphanumeric data describing a reporting device and graphic data
such as floor plans and building height profiles in any color the designer chooses to best communicate with
the operator.
3.15 Digital Alarm Communicator Systems (DACS)

The signaling technique used for remote supervising station fire alarm systems requires telephone lines
between the protected premises and the remote receiving point. These physical wires are becoming less and
less available. The telephone service companies have steadily been converting to optical fiber cable and
radio communication links that cannot be used to carry the DC current required by the method described in
2.12.7.
A new fire alarm system component called a digital alarm communicator has been employed to overcome the
application problem of the disappearing physical copper paths.
A DACS consists of one or more digital alarm communicator transmitters (DACT) and at least one digital
alarm communicator receiver (DACR), all of which are defined in section 1.
The DACTs are designed to connect to the standard public switched telephone networks. The DACT units
send appropriate coded signals to a remote receiving location and are designed to automatically dial up the
particular receiving station to which they are to report.
Since they are designed to use the public switched telephone network, the signals will go through whatever
type of signaling path the telephone company puts in place for its normal voice communications services. A
DACT protecting a particular area can send an alarm signal to any location that can be reached by a voice
telephone circuit.
A simple DACS could consist of a single DACT connected to a switched network telephone line reporting to a
DACR anywhere in the world. The single DACT could be monitoring fire detection devices directly or be
connected to a fire alarm system.

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Section 4
Initiating Devices
4.1 Manual and Automatic Alarm Initiating Devices

Initiating devices for fire alarm systems are either manual fire alarm boxes or automatic detectors and are
used to initiate an alarm signal on a fire alarm system.
4.2 Manual Fire Alarm Boxes

Examples of manual fire alarm boxes are non-coded, coded, pre-signal, general alarm, break-glass, non-
break-glass, single action, and double action.
The device may be surface, semi-flush, or flush mounted. The International Building Code (IBC), International
Fire Code (IFC), NFPA 101, and NFPA 5000 specify when manual fire alarm boxes are to be installed in a
particular occupancy. NFPA 72 specifies how manual fire alarm boxes are to be installed, inspected, tested,
and maintained.
4.2.1 Non-Coded Fire Alarm Boxes

A non-coded manual fire alarm box contains a normally open or closed switch that is housed within a
distinctive enclosure. Once actuated, the fire alarm box contacts transfer and are maintained until some
specific resetting of the fire alarm box restores the unit to normal. Contact and circuit arrangements may vary
to provide a number of functions simultaneously.
4.2.2 Coded Fire Alarm Boxes

Coded fire alarm boxes contain a mechanically or electrically driven motor that, when activated, turns a code
wheel, causing contacts to momentarily open or close to reproduce the code of the fire alarm box. The fire
alarm box is required to repeat its code a minimum of three times. Contact and circuit arrangements may vary
to provide a number of functions simultaneously. Electronic devices may be used to produce the same effect.
4.2.3 Pre-signal Fire Alarm Boxes

Pre-signal fire alarm boxes initially cause alarm signals to sound only in specific areas. Actuation of a key
switch on the fire alarm box or the control unit will cause an evacuation signal to sound throughout all
occupied areas of the building.
4.2.4 General Alarm Fire Alarm Boxes

A general alarm fire alarm box is the most common. When actuated, it causes an evacuation signal to sound
immediately throughout all occupied areas of the building.
4.2.5 Breakglass Fire Alarm Boxes

The term "breakglass" is applied to both non-coded and coded fire alarm boxes. A breakglass pull station will
break a glass rode or other breakable element in order to actuate the station. Activated breakglass pull
stations are easily identifiable. Fire alarm boxes without this feature are classified as "non-breakglass."
See figure 4-1.

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Figure 4-1 Breakglass fire alarm box
4.2.6 Single-action fire alarm boxes

A fire alarm box that initiates an alarm condition as the result of a single action by the user of pulling a lever or
other movable part. The required action usually is breaking a glass element only or actuating a lever or other
movable part of the station. See figure 4-2.
Figure 4-2 Single-action fire alarm
4.2.7 Double-action fire alarm boxes

A fire alarm box that initiates an alarm as a result of two actions taken by the user. The operation of such a
station nominally requires the user to break a glass, push a lever, open a door, or lift a cover in order to gain
access to a switch or lever that must then be operated in order to initiate an alarm. See figure 4-3. The
required double action tends to discourage accidental or deliberately malicious nuisance alarms.

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Figure 4-3 Double action fire alarm box
4.3 Automatic Alarm Initiating Devices

Automatic alarm initiating devices may be actuated by various physical phenomena that may be present as
the result of a fire. These factors may be direct effects, such as heat, smoke, gas, flame radiation, or
combinations of these effects. Devices sensing these direct effects of fire are generally referred to as
automatic fire detectors. Automatic initiation may also be accomplished as the result of detecting flow of water
in a sprinkler pipe, either by a vane deflected by the water or a pressure-operated switch mounted on a
sprinkler system dry pipe valve. In addition, pressure switches may be mounted on fixed fire suppression
systems that suppress fires by releasing agents such as clean agents, Halon substitutes, carbon dioxide, dry
chemicals, or foam. These devices are generally referred to by their direct function (e.g., flow switch,
pressure switch, and so forth).
4.3.1 Classification of Automatic Fire Detectors

4.3.1.1 By Combustion Product Detected
a. Heat detector. A device that that responds to the thermal energy (heat) signature from a fire when
the detecting element reaches either a predetermined fixed temperature or when a specified rate of
temperature rise occurs.
b. Smoke detector. A device that detects airborne particles of combustion from a fire. See figures 4-4
and 4-5.
c. Flame Detector. A device that detects the infrared, ultraviolet, or visible radiation produced by a fire.
Figure 4-4 An early example of an Figure 4-5 An example of a current

ionization detector multi-criteria detector
4.3.1.2 By Physical Arrangement of Detector
a. Line-type detector. A device in which detection is continuous along its length. Typical examples are
rate-of-rise pneumatic tubing detectors, projected beam smoke detectors, video smoke detection,
and heat-sensitive cable.

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b. Spot-type detector. A device whose detecting element is concentrated at a particular location.

Typical examples are bimetallic heat detectors, fusible alloy heat detectors, certain pneumatic rate-
of-rise heat detectors, certain smoke detectors, flame detectors, and thermoelectric heat detectors.
Figure 4-6 Spot-type example: thermal Figure 4-7 Spot-type example: smoke
detector detector
c. Duct smoke detector. This type of smoke detector (figure 4-8) detects smoke for the primary
purpose of controlling the spread of smoke through the heating, ventilating and air conditioning
system (HVAC). This helps prevent possible panic and damage from distribution of smoke and
gaseous products throughout the building. These detectors are typically mounted to the HVAC
duct work and only detect smoke circulating inside the in the HVAC duct work. A duct smoke
detector uses the velocity pressure drop across sampling tubes located in an air stream to move air
through a smoke detector. A spot-type detector with a velocity shield (if required) is also available for
direct insertion into a duct.
Figure 4-8 Duct smoke detector housing
d. Air sampling/aspirating–type detector. A sampling-type detector consists of a distribution of piping

or tubing from the detector unit to the areas or zones to be protected. An air pump draws air from the
protected area back to the detector through the air sampling ports in the piping or tubing. At the
detector, the air is analyzed for combustion products. Air sampling detectors can be arranged to
sequentially sample and analyze air from multiple zones.
4.3.1.3 By Operating Modes
a. Non-restorable detector. A device whose sensing element is designed to be destroyed or becomes

non-resettable by the process of detecting a fire.
b. Restorable detector. A device whose sensing element is not ordinarily destroyed by the process of
detecting heat. Restoration may be manual or automatic if the sensing element is not damaged by
exposure to fire.
c. Latching detector. A device that, when it detects the presence of fire/smoke, electrically locks itself
in the alarm condition. Typically only the removal of power will restore the detector to normal,
assuming the source that caused the alarm has been eliminated.
d. Nonlatching detector. A device that when it detects the presence of fire/smoke remains in the
alarm condition until the alarm condition is no longer sensed, at which point the detector will
automatically restore.

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4.3.2 Heat-Sensing Fire Detectors

4.3.2.1 Operating Principles
The sections below will describe the operating principles for the various types of detectors.
4.3.2.2 Fixed Temperature Detector
A fixed temperature detector is a device that responds when its operating element becomes heated to a
predetermined temperature level. See figure 4-9.
A bimetallic, snap-action disc, fixed temperature detector. The

snap action disc is in the raised center portion of the device.
Figure 4-9 Fixed temperature detector
4.3.2.2.1 Thermal Lag

When a fixed temperature device operates, the temperature of the surrounding air will always be higher than
the operating temperature of the device itself. This difference between the operating temperature of the
device and the actual air temperature is commonly referred to as "thermal lag" and is a function of the rate at
which the temperature is increasing in the detector versus the surrounding air temperature.
4.3.2.2.2 Typical Examples of Fixed Temperature Sensing Elements

a. Bimetallic. A sensing element composed of two metals having different coefficients of thermal
expansion arranged so that the element will be deflected in one direction when heated and in the
opposite direction when cooled.
b. Electrical Conductivity. A sensing element composed of an electrical resistor (thermistor) whose

resistance varies as a function of temperature. See figure 4-10.
Figure 4-10 Electrical conductivity sensing element
c. Fusible Alloy. A sensing element of a special composition (eutectic) metal that melts rapidly at the
rated temperature. It is employed to restrain operation of an electrical contact until the point of fusion

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is reached. Once activated, the detector will indicate by dropping a disc from the bottom of the
detector or leaving a hole in the detector where the special composition (eutectic) metal was.
d. Heat-Sensitive Cable. A line-type device whose sensing element comprises, in one type, two
current-carrying wires separated by a heat-sensitive insulation that softens at the rated temperature,
thus allowing the wires to make electrical contact. In another type, a single wire is centered in a
metallic tube and the intervening space is filled with a substance that, at a critical temperature,
becomes conductive, thus establishing electrical contact between the tube and the wire. See figure
4-11.
e. Electronic Fixed Temperature Sensor. A spot-type heat detector that uses the electronics in the
head to monitor a thermocouple. The thermocouple will transmit to the electronics the air
temperature near the sensor. Once the thermocouple reaches the maximum temperature rating of
the detector, the detector electronics generates an alarm and illuminates its internal LED to indicate
the detector in alarm.
Figure 4-11 Heat-sensitive cable
4.3.2.3 Rate Compensation Detector

This is a device that will respond when the temperature of the air surrounding the device reaches a
predetermined level regardless of the rate of temperature rise. See figure 4-12.
Figure 4-12 Schematic of rate-compensation detector

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A typical example is a spot-type detector with a tubular casing of a metal that tends to expand lengthwise as it
is heated, and an associated contact mechanism that will close at a certain point in the elongation process. A
second metallic element inside the tube exerts an opposing force on the contacts, tending to hold them open.
The forces are balanced in such a way that on a slow rate of temperature rise, there is more time for heat to
penetrate to the inner element, which therefore inhibits contact closure until the total device has been heated
to its rated temperature level. However, on a fast rate of temperature rise, there is not as much time for heat
to penetrate to the inner element, which, therefore, exerts less of an inhibiting effect, so that contact closure is
obtained when the total device has been heated to a lower level. This, in effect, compensates for thermal lag.
4.3.2.4 Rate-of-Rise Detector

A rate-of-rise detector is a device that will respond when the temperature rises at a rate exceeding a
predetermined amount (usually 15 degrees Fahrenheit per minute).
Typical examples of rate-of-rise detectors follow:
a. Spot-type rate-of-rise detector. A device consisting of an air chamber, diaphragm, contacts, and
compensating vent in a single enclosure. The principle of operation is the same as that described
under (b) below. Some spot-type rate-of-rise detectors also incorporate an element using eutectic
solder that is arranged to melt at a fixed temperature and cause contacts to close. These detectors
are referred to as fixed temperature and rate-of-rise detectors and combine the two principles of
operation in a single unit. See figure 4-13.
b. Electronic fixed/rate-of-rise temperature sensor. A spot-type heat detector that uses the
electronics in the head to monitor a temperature sensitive sensor (usually a thermocouple or
negative temperature coefficient [NTC] resistor). The sensor will transmit to the electronics the air
temperature surrounding it. Once the sensor reaches the maximum temperature rating of the
detector or the electronics has determined that the sensor has its temperature rise greater than 15°
F in one minute, it goes into alarm and illuminates its internal LED to indicate the detector in alarm.
c. Pneumatic rate-of-rise tubing. A line-type detector consisting of small-diameter tubing, usually

copper, which is installed on the ceiling or high on the walls throughout the protected area. The
tubing is terminated in a detector unit, containing diaphragms and associated contacts set to
actuate at a predetermined pressure. The system is sealed except for calibrated vents that
compensate for normal changes in ambient temperature. See figure 4-14.
Figure 4-13 Combination spot-type rate-of-rise and fixed temperature detector

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Figure 4-14 Pneumatic rate-of-rise tubing
4.3.3 Smoke Sensing Fire Detectors

For additional information on the proper use of smoke sensing fire detectors, see the following two
publications available from the National Electrical Manufacturers Association.
SB 11-2011 Guide for Proper Use of System Smoke Detectors

SB 13-2012 Guide for Proper Use of Smoke Detectors in Duct Applications
4.3.3.1 Classification of Detectors by Operating Principles

4.3.3.1.1 Ionization Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors using the ionization principle are usually spot type. An ionization smoke detector has a
small amount of radioactive material that ionizes the air in the sensing chamber, thus rendering it conductive
and permitting a current flow through the air between two charged electrodes. This gives the sensing
chamber an effective electrical conductance. When smoke particles enter the ionization area, they decrease
the conductance of the air by attaching themselves to the ions, causing a reduction in mobility. When the
conductance is less than a predetermined level, the detector responds. See figure 4-15.
Figure 4-15 Current flow-through ionization detector sensing chamber
4.3.3.1.2 Photoelectric Light Obscuration Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors utilizing the photoelectric light obscuration principle consist of a light source that is projected
onto a photosensitive device. Smoke particles between the light source and the photosensitive device reduce
the light reaching the device, causing the detector to respond.
A projected beam smoke detector is a line-type light obscuration smoke detector where the light beam is
projected across the area to be protected. See figure 4-16.

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Figure 4-16 Projected beam smoke detector
4.3.3.1.3 Photoelectric Light Scattering Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors using the photoelectric light scattering principle are usually spot type. They contain a
light source and a photosensitive device arranged so that light rays do not normally fall onto the
photosensitive device. When smoke particles enter the light path, light strikes the particles and is
scattered onto the photosensitive device, causing the detector to respond. See figure 4-17.
Figure 4-17 Photoelectric light scattering detector
4.3.3.1.4 Combination Smoke Detectors

Detectors can use multi-criteria or multi-sensors to determine alarm threshold. With the photoelectric light
scattering smoke sensor, you can add heat detection, ion smoke detection, and/or CO detection. The
heat addition confirms the fire by sensing the amount of heat with the smoke. The ion sensor confirms
another technology of smoke detection with the photoelectric light scattering detection. The CO addition
ensures a fire is present by sensing the particles of CO that are generated by the fire, as CO is not
generated without a source of combustion. The following are the definitions of both concepts.
multi-criteria detector: A device that contains multiple sensors that separately respond to physical
stimulus such as heat, smoke, or fire gases, or employs more than one sensor to sense the same
stimulus. This sensor is capable of generating only one alarm signal from the sensors employed in
the design, either independently or in combination. The sensor output signal is mathematically
evaluated to determine when an alarm signal is warranted. The evaluation can be performed either
at the detector or at the control unit. This detector has a single listing that establishes the primary
function of the detector.
multi-sensor detector: A device that contains multiple sensors that separately respond to physical
stimulus such as heat, smoke, or fire gases or employs more than one sensor to sense the same
stimulus. A device capable of generating multiple alarm signals from any one of the sensors

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employed in the design, independently or in combination. The sensor output signals are
mathematically evaluated to determine when an alarm signal is warranted. The evaluation can be
performed either at the detector or at the control unit. This device has listings for each sensing
method employed.
4.4 Switches On Automatic Fire Suppression Systems

4.4.1 Waterflow Switch on Sprinkler Systems
Another type of alarm initiating device that may be used is a sprinkler waterflow switch of either the pressure
or vane-type. The waterflow switches illustrated in figure 4-18 are of the vane-type and are generally used in
wet-pipe sprinkler systems. Operation of a sprinkler head causes water to flow in the system, moving the
vane. After an adjustable retard period to compensate for water surges, the switch or transmitter connected
to the fire alarm system will operate. Vane-type switches should be installed in the size and type of pipe for
which they are listed.
Figure 4-18 Waterflow switch on sprinkler system
Vane-type waterflow switches should not be used in dry pipe systems, deluge systems, or preaction systems
because the vane and mechanism could be damaged by the sudden rush of water when the control valve
opens. A pressure actuated waterflow switch is used on these systems.
4.4.2 Alarm Switches on Fire Suppression Systems

Fixed fire suppression systems of the FM200, halon, carbon dioxide, dry chemical, or foam type have
pressure or flow switches that actuate upon operation of the suppression system.
4.4.3 Supervisory Monitoring for Sprinkler Systems

A device arranged to supervise the operative condition of automatic sprinkler systems.

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4.4.3.1 Valve Supervision

Indicates sprinkler system water supply valve(s) is closed.
4.4.3.2 Pressure Supervision

Indicates low water pressure in sprinkler system.
4.4.3.3 Fire Pump Supervision

a. Power including phase reversal
b. Pump running
c. Pump not in auto
d. Pump fault
e. Pump low fuel
4.4.4 Engine Driven Generator Supervision

a. Engine or control panel trouble
b. Generator running
c. Selector switch not in auto
d. Low fuel
4.5 Installation Wiring

This is primary rule of installation wiring:
"Follow the manufacturer's published instructions."
This rule cannot be overemphasized. As noted in section 2, the requirement for electrical monitoring of the
installation wires and their connections to initiating devices makes fire alarm system wiring very different from
general wiring.
A manufacturer's installation instruction covers wiring and connections. The wiring is run a specific way
because of the monitoring requirements. Any variance from the manufacturer's drawings might cause a
portion of a circuit to be unmonitored and, if an open or short occurred, prevent the circuit from performing its
intended function, and possibly lead to loss of life, without prior warning.
There are enough exceptions to the rules that an installer should not presume one particular system must be
wired in the same manner as a similar system worked on previously. It is possible that hardware that appears
to be identical in two different buildings can be wired differently.
This may be because one building may have used a device that was required by an AHJ and the other
building used a similar appearing device that was considered "supplementary" to a required fire alarm
system. In fire alarm signaling systems, installation wiring for supplementary equipment is not required to be
monitored. However, a set of rules requires that an open, short, or ground on such "supplementary"
equipment wiring should not affect any function of the required system.
Since there are at least a dozen accepted variations to wire installation monitoring and not all may apply to
every job, how is the installer to interpret the requirements? He uses the primary rule of installation wiring:
Fire alarm system installation drawings take two forms. One form is where the manufacturer of the control
unit or a qualified installer creates an installation wiring diagram for a particular building. The other form is
where a manufacturer of the control unit or other components in the system furnishes typical installation
drawings.

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An installer who uses the typical drawings has responsibility for applying the typical drawings in accordance
with local code requirements. The manufacturer's drawings will show how the unit is to be connected into a
system. However, how to interconnect devices on the same floor but served by a different riser may not
always be shown. Nor may subtle differences about supplementary equipment installation wiring be shown.
Generally, installers using typical drawings should be well qualified in fire alarm system installation
requirements or be under the direct supervision of someone who is well qualified—e.g., certified to NICET
level II or level III.
For initiating devices, figures 4-20 and 4-21 show incorrectly connected devices. Figures 4-19 and 4-22 show
them correctly connected. In both cases, they will operate correctly for alarm purposes. However, note that in
figures 4-20 and 4-21, the device could become disconnected from the monitored installation wires without
disturbing the monitored circuit. In figures 4-19 and in 4-22, none of the connections can be broken without
breaking the monitored circuit.
NORMALLY OPEN CONTACT

INITIATING DEVICE
Figure 4-19 Initiating devices, correctly wired
NORMALLY OPEN CONTACT

INITIATING DEVICE
Figure 4-20 Initiating devices, incorrectly wired

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Figure 4-21 Pigtail connections, incorrect wiring method
Figure 4-22 Pigtail connections, correct wiring method
The installer should note that in figure 4-22, the manufacturer's pigtail wires on either circuit side of the device
are very likely "Y" connected within the device and would seem to be a contradiction to the requirements.
However, this is not true because the monitoring requirements apply to the connections made at the time of
installation. The manufacturing connections are made under controlled conditions with skilled technicians,
usually soldered, and inspected. In addition, approved devices are subject to quality control procedures
acceptable to the testing authority.
Another approach for showing the difference between incorrect and correct wiring methods is demonstrated
in figures 4-23 and 4-24. These illustrate the effect the correct wiring method can have on the number of
wires in the riser. They also illustrate the expense that could be incurred to correct a faulty installation.

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Figure 4-23 Incorrect wiring method for multiriser initiating device circuit
Figure 4-24 Correct wiring method for multiriser initiating device circuit

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The figures used show simple initiating devices. A minimum of four connections should be made to each
device. Some initiating devices, such as smoke detectors, may also require a power connection that also
requires four additional connections.
Some smoke detectors have relays built in for additional functions. Depending on the application, another 4
connections may be required for the relay contacts. To show all the variations of connections to smoke
detectors is beyond the scope of this manual.
The installer need not be fully knowledgeable of all the ramifications of wiring requirements because of
monitoring but should be aware of them as they relate to why manufacturers or other system suppliers show
their wiring the way they do.
To close this section, we restate the primary rule of installation wiring:
4.6 Pathway Class—Circuit Classes. For Conventional Initiating Device Circuit (IDC)
Typical initiation device circuits are wired in either class B/style B or class A/style D. Today’s way of
indicating the type of circuit is to speak in terms of circuit style. The older panels and technicians speak of
class of circuit.
a. Class B/style B is a circuit that includes one initiation device or more wired series parallel with an
end-of-line device, typically a resistor.
o Should an open occur between the FACU and the end-of-line device, everything past the
open toward the end-of-line resistor will not generate an alarm; everything before the
open will operate. During this open condition without any alarms, the panel shall indicate
trouble condition.
o Should a single ground fault occur on this circuit or any other circuit, all devices must
operate during an alarm condition. The panel shall indicate a ground fault trouble
indication.

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Figure 4-25 Correct wiring method for class A circuit
b. Class A/style D is a circuit that includes one initiation device or more wired series parallel with
the end of the wiring returning to the control unit or module.
o Should an open occur between the FACU and the return wires, everything past the open
toward the FACU will generate an alarm; everything before the open will also operate.
During this open condition without any alarms, the panel shall indicate trouble condition.
o Should a single ground fault occur on this circuit or any other circuit, all devices must
operate during an alarm condition. The panel shall indicate a ground fault trouble
indication.

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Section 5
Notification Appliances
5.1 General
Notification appliances provide audible and/or visible notification of an alarm condition to building occupants.
There are several types of alarm notification appliances:
a. Audible alarm notification appliances

b. Visible alarm notification appliances
c. Visible alarm notification annunciators
d. Audible/visible (combination) alarm notification appliances
Alarm notification appliances should be installed in the protected premises in accordance with local codes,
architects’ plans, and requirements of authorities having jurisdiction, the manufacturer's published
instructions, and the basic requirements of the NFPA standards as they apply to the installation.
5.2 Alarm Notification Appliances

All audible and visible alarm notification appliances are required by NFPA 72 to be installed on monitored
circuits. In addition to the general description of monitoring for integrity requirements discussed in section 2, a
wire-to-wire short on an alarm notification appliance installation wiring circuit must sound a trouble signal.
There are some exceptions. One is a circuit to an alarm notification appliance installed in the same room as
the control unit where the wires are installed in conduit or are equivalently protected against mechanical
damage. Another is where the appliance is installed for a supplementary purpose. An example might be
when an audible and/or visible appliance is mounted adjacent to a manual station to deter false alarms rather
than to indicate a need for evacuation.
5.3 Audible Alarm Notification Appliances

5.3.1 Bells
Bells may be used for fire alarm signals where their sound is distinctive and will not be confused with similar
audible signals used for other purposes. Bells may be of the single-stroke or vibrating type.
Single-stroke bells are used to provide audible coded signals. Vibrating types are used primarily for non-
coded, continuous, or temporal sounding applications, but they also may be used to provide coded audible
signals.
Bells may be provided with 4-inch through 12-inch gongs (in 2-inch increments). The 6- and 10-inch sizes are
the most commonly used. Bells with 4-inch gongs are usually reserved for use as trouble signals. Generally,
the larger the diameter of the gongs, the lower the frequency and the louder the audible signal (expressed in
terms of decibels [dBA]).
Bells are usually of the under-dome type and can be mounted on standard conduit boxes. When bells must
be concealed, recessed, and/or mounted flush with the wall, special boxes and grilles are necessary.
5.3.2 Horns
Horns are provided for applications that require louder or more distinctive signals, or both. Care should be
exercised to see that circuits are electrically compatible when powering both types of notification appliances.

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Horns are usually of the continuous vibrating type and may be used to provide coded, non-coded, or
temporal audible alarm signals. They may be of the surface (grille), flush, semi-flush, single projector, double
projector, or trumpet type.
In very noisy areas, resonating, air-powered, or motor-driven horns are sometimes used because of their
inherently high decibel output.
Resonating horns can be operated on alternating or direct current and produce a loud piercing tone, and
coded, non-coded, or temporal operation can be provided.
Air-powered horns that use valves controlled by electrical solenoids powered by alternating or direct current
may be used. Either coded or non-coded operation can be provided.
Motor-driven horns are not practical for providing coded output signals and are more widely used for
continuous signals. They are particularly effective under "rolling" conditions where power is periodically
applied and removed to vary the motor speed and the sound pitch.
5.3.3 Chimes
Chimes are soft-toned appliances. They are normally used in applications where panic or other undesirable
actions might result from the use of loud audible alarm signals. Their use is especially adaptable to such
areas as nurses' stations in hospitals to alert only authorized personnel.
5.3.4 Buzzers
Buzzers are generally used for trouble signals, rather than alarm signals. They are primarily intended to
provide a continuous sound and are seldom used for coded signals.
5.3.5 Sirens
Sirens are usually limited to outdoor applications but are sometimes used in extremely noisy indoor areas.
Sirens are motor-driven or electronic appliances and may be either alternating or direct current operated.
They are not very practical for use as coded audible signals.
5.3.6 Speakers
Speakers are frequently used as alarm notification appliances. Since they reproduce electronic signals, they
can be made to sound like any mechanical signaling appliance and have the capability of reproducing unique
sounds that are not practical on mechanical appliances. In addition, they may be used to give live or recorded
voice instructions. Speakers are either direct radiating cone or of the compression driver.
Speakers are generally operated from audio amplifiers delivering standard output line levels of 70.7 or 25 volt
rms. The speakers are driven by an electronic tone generator, microphone, or digital voice synthesizer and
an electronic audio amplifier. Two types of audio amplifiers are in wide use:
a. Integral: that type in which the tone generator, amplifier, and speaker are enclosed in a common
housing
b. Remote: that type in which the speaker is energized from a remotely located tone generator,
microphone, tape player, and/or voice synthesizer and amplifier
5.3.7 Electronic Alarms

Many audible alarm notification appliances now use electronic circuitry to drive compact piezo-ceramic
transducers or speakers to produce the sounds of conventional horns, bells, chimes, buzzers, or sirens.

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These electronic alarms are usually more compact and more efficient than conventional electromechanical
designs and may include the ability to change the sound selection or sound level to better fit the application.
5.4 Visible Alarm Notification Appliances

Visible alarm notification appliances may be used alone or in conjunction with audible alarm notification
appliances. Visible alarm notification appliances can be effective in high noise areas, where the hearing
impaired are to be alerted, or where attention to the light unit can provide additional information.
In most applications, visible alarm notification appliances are most effective when used in a flashing mode.
For this reason, NFPA 72 requires the flashing. The flashing cannot exceed two flashes per second nor be
slower than one flash every second. Synchronized flashing is important to persons with photosensitive
epilepsy. Flashing strobes out of sync in a visual line of sight could cause a reaction in this section of society.
Early systems used incandescent lamp flashing; the effect was accomplished by periodically interrupting
current to the appliance, using a strobe technique, or any combination of these methods. However, the
maximum pulse duration shall not exceed .2 seconds with a maximum duty cycle of 40 percent.
One method of determining compliance with current NFPA 72 requirements for any visible alarm notification
appliance is that the product be listed by Underwriters Laboratories in accordance with UL 1971 Signaling
Devices for the Hearing Impaired.
Visible alarm notification appliance lens must be clear or nominally white and shall not exceed 1,000 candela
in effective intensity.
With advancements in technologies, LED-type visual alarms have been introduced. Caution should be taken,
as the NFPA 72 and UL standards for this technology are changing as of the writing of this manual edition;
please refer to your current edition of NFPA 72 for clear direction on the performance of visual alarms.
5.5 Combination Audible/Visible Notification Appliances

The audible and visible functions can be combined in one unit to produce both sound and light from a single
appliance. For example, the sounder can be a horn, bell, or speaker. The light portion is generally a xenon
strobe meeting the requirements of UL 1971. The following are advantages of the combined signals:
a. The visible signal identifies the particular audible alarm appliance that is operating.
b. The visible signal produces a recognizable alarm when the audible signal may be obscured by an
ambient noise level.
c. Persons with impaired hearing can see the visible portion of the alarm signals.
The combined signals are available in several voltages up to line voltage. Twenty-four volt DC units are the
most prevalent. Polarized versions facilitate circuit integrity monitoring. Two- or four-wire connected types
permit application of either a common or separate power supply.
5.6 Exit Marking Audible Notification Appliance

An audible notification appliance that marks building exits and areas of refuge by the sense of hearing for the
purpose of evacuation or relocation.
These systems are acceptable within NFPA 72 but are not required in any building or fire code
5.7 Textual Audible Notification Appliance

A notification appliance that conveys a stream of audible information. These are becoming widely used with
emergency communication systems with mass notification, as outline in this document.

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5.8 Visible Notification Appliance

A notification appliance that alerts by the sense of sight.
5.9 Textual Visible Notification Appliance.

A notification appliance that conveys a stream of visible information that displays an alphanumeric or pictorial
message. This feature combines both textual audible and visible notification appliances in one unit.
5.9.1 Visible Annunciators
Annunciators can be used with either coded or zoned non-coded systems to provide indication of the initiating
device or zone from which the alarm originated.
5.9.2 Lamp Annunciators

In lamp annunciators, the devices, zones, or areas from which alarms originate are indicated by the lighting of
lamps or light-emitting diodes (LEDs).
a. Lamp annunciators may be provided with different-colored lenses, usually red for alarm, amber for
trouble, and green or white for power-on indications.
b. Back-lighted annunciators are used to light up information on a window or to provide illumination for a
graphic annunciator.
c. Graphic annunciators have lamps located in a map or floor plan to provide an easier means of
identifying the affected device, area, or zone. The area from which the alarm has been initiated can be
indicated by a bull’s-eye-type lamp located within the area or by backlighting the entire affected area
or zone.
5.9.3 Drop-Type Annunciators

Drop-type annunciators use a target that drops in front of a window when the target coil is energized (or de-
energized for supervisory annunciation). The target remains down until the annunciator is reset manually,
thus providing a simple means of lock-in annunciation. An advantage of this type of annunciator is its low
power consumption requirements. Except for the monitored application, it uses power only momentarily when
operated. Drop-type annunciators are no longer in common use on new installations.
5.9.4 Incandescent Lamp

Incandescent lamp alarm annunciators are single or dual lamp.
5.9.5 Solid-State Lamp

Solid-state luminous appliances have become the most prevalent because of high reliability, relatively low
current rating, and availability in various colors. An LED lamp is an example. These are inherently low-current
appliances adaptable to solid-state energizing circuits. Annunciator panel and indicating lamps that formerly
used incandescent lamps have been replaced by solid-state lamps.
5.9.6 Fluorescent Lamp

Fluorescent lamps are used primarily as sources of distributed or diffused backlighting in continuous warning
signals that, when activated, convey a printed warning or direction message. Because of complex starting
circuits and relatively low brilliance, fluorescent signal appliances are not used in coded or flashing warning
applications. Items of this type are typically exit signs, which are flashed to indicate evacuation.

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5.10 Permanent Recorders

Permanent recorders are used on fire alarm systems as a means to indicate the type and location of an
alarm as well as to provide a permanent record of the time and date an alarm occurred. As an indicator of the
location of an alarm, a recorder that creates a hardcopy record performs the same function as a lamp
annunciator. In many systems, the recorder may be used to record a trouble condition and other events that
are related to the fire alarm system. Typically, these might indicate the activation of alarm notification
appliances, fan shut down, door closings, or other building fire safety functions that may have taken place
either automatically or because of operator actions.
5.10.1 Punch Registers

Punch registers follow coded current pulses to either imprint or punch the code on a paper tape. During the
receipt of the signal, the time and date is printed automatically on the tape by the time stamp.
The paper tape is on a reel. Usually, the used portion of the tape is stored on a motor-driven take-up reel.
Punch registers are not available for current systems but may be found in some older coded systems
5.10.2 Print Recorders

Print recorders have replaced punch recorders almost entirely in today's fire alarm systems. Upgrades and
extension or retrofit of older systems are likely to replace the mechanical punch recorder with an
electronically operated printer. New systems, using microprocessor or minicomputer technology, or both, will
have a wide variety of electronic printers.
Print recorders range from small hand-size units similar to those found on small printing calculators up to
large, sophisticated, high-speed printers found on major computing systems.
Where no other visual means of indicating an alarm is provided, proprietary fire alarm systems require two
printers, one of which is reserved for fire alarm signals.
5.10.3 Time Stamps

Time stamps can be used with punch registers and print recorders. They provide an accurate record of the
time and date of receipt of a signal. They are usually automatically operated when an alarm signal is
received. Most new installations using print recorders generate the time and date electronically and do not
use separate time stamps.
5.11 Installation Wiring

Section 6 of this manual states the primary rule of installation wiring: "Follow the manufacturer's published
instructions."
It is repeated here because this rule cannot be overemphasized.
The monitoring requirements that affect wire counts and types of connections on NACs are identical to those
for IDCs. All that is stated in section 6 on installation wiring applies and is not repeated here (see section 6.4).
The only difference would be in the internal construction of the connected components. Initiating devices are
essentially normally open contact switches or their electronic equivalent. Notification appliances are power-
using devices. The wire counts and method of connections are identical to the diagrams in section 2 of this
manual. Figures 5-1, 5-2, and 5-3 illustrate this equivalency, and no further discussion on these points is
required.

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Figure 5-1 Incorrect installation wiring method for a notification appliance circuit
Figure 5-2 Correct installation wiring method for a notification appliance circuit
Figure 5-3 Correct installation wiring method for single notification appliance circuit with two
risers
The form of alarm notification appliances has been changing over the years. Instead of traditional bells or
horns, electricians are finding themselves installing electronic alarms or speakers. Only listed speakers
bearing labels from nationally recognized testing laboratories, indicating that the appliance is intended for fire
alarm system use, should be installed on a fire alarm system. Such labeling is normally required by the AHJ
and indicates that the appliance has been tested to the temperature, humidity, and lifecycle requirements
considered necessary for use in life safety systems.
Sometimes, speaker systems are used in what are termed combination systems where the speakers are also
used for paging. Where this is the case, the non-fire use should not interfere with the fire alarm use. In

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addition, a fault in the non-fire alarm system components should not cause the required fire alarm speakers
to be inoperative. The audio system should be fully operational whenever it may be needed for a fire alarm
emergency. When combination systems are used, it is still necessary to comply with all requirements for fire
alarm installation wiring and monitoring.
If an unmonitored audio system is being used to transmit a supplementary evacuation signal, it is required by
NFPA 72 that the fire alarm system provide sufficient monitored alarm NAC capability to perform all required
alarm notification even if the supplementary audio system is disabled.
Alarm notification circuits today are becoming quite complex. This is particularly true in high-rise buildings
where each floor is usually a separate circuit. As in all fire alarm system installation wiring, the installer should
follow the primary rule of installation wiring: "Follow the manufacturer's published instructions."

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Section 6
Installation Instructions for Fire Alarm Systems
6.1 General
National and local codes, architects' plans, or the AHJ may specify the type of equipment to be used, the
performance and survivability of signaling pathways, and the location of fire alarm system components. In
addition, the information supplied by the manufacturer and the applicable requirements of the NFPA
standards and codes listed in the front of this publication should be followed.
6.2 Location of System Components

6.2.1 General
Most fire alarm systems are installed to meet requirements of applicable laws. The authorities enforcing these
laws should be consulted for specific approval of installation methods and component locations. This manual
may not be in total agreement with their requirements because the manual reflects NFPA standards and
codes and trends in the industry in effect at the time of publication. Care must be taken to acknowledge local
or state revisions to any particular code or standard.
6.2.2 Fire Alarm Control Units

The mounting location of the fire alarm system control unit and associated peripheral equipment should be
carefully chosen with consideration given to system operating requirements. Preferably, the central
equipment should be located in an area of low fire risk. For the safety of the operator, who may be required to
remain at this post after the general evacuation of the occupants, the fire alarm control unit (FACU) should be
located on the ground floor within easy reach of a fire exit.
The FACU cabinet(s) can be floor-mounted, installed on a vertical wall in a clean, dry, unobstructed location,
or in a rack mount cabinet. The center of the cabinet should be at a convenient height from the finished floor
for ease of operator usage. Consideration also should be given to the fact that some FACUs exhibit a slight
hum that is inherent in some power supplies and certain alternating current components. These types of
FACUs should be located where this hum will not be objectionable to others in the area. A smoke detector
shall be located above the main panel, remote control panels, external remote station transmitter panels, and
remote NAC power supplies in all unoccupied areas. The detector is there to give an early warning should the
panel be threatened by smoke or fire. The panel should be able to transmit the alarm before being disabled
by fire.
6.2.3 Alarm Initiating Devices

Manual fire alarm boxes must be distributed throughout the protected area so that they are unobstructed,
readily accessible, and located in the normal path of exit from the area.
Where a fire alarm system is required, manual fire alarm boxes must be located as directed and approved by
the local AHJ. Since 1979, NFPA standards and codes have required that an adequate number of fire alarm
boxes be provided on each floor. Also, additional fire alarm boxes must be provided so that the travel
distance to the nearest station will not be in excess of 200 feet. Each station must be securely mounted and
at a height compliant with NFPA 72 and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. The rule of
thumb is to install the manual fire alarm box so the top is at 48 inches above the finished floor (AFF).
Automatic fire detectors must be installed in all areas where required by the building code and the
appropriate NFPA standard or code or as required by the AHJ. Where total coverage is required, this should

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include all rooms, halls, storage areas, basements, attics, lofts, spaces above suspended ceilings, and other
subdivisions and accessible spaces, and inside all closets, enclosed stairways, elevator shafts, dumbwaiter
shafts, and chutes. Inaccessible areas that contain combustible material must be made accessible and
protected by detector(s).
Detectors should also be installed underneath open loading docks or platforms and their covers, and for
accessible underfloor spaces of buildings without basements.
Exceptions to the last two paragraphs and other detailed information on automatic fire detectors are found in
NFPA 72 chapter 17, Initiating Devices. Determining the exact location for automatic fire detectors is one of
the most critical decisions to be made when installing any fire alarm system. Whenever possible, the type of
detector to be used and the location of each detector should be determined by a qualified fire protection
engineer who has made a complete survey of the premises to be protected. When this is not feasible, the
recommendations of the equipment manufacturer should be followed. NFPA 72 gives complete information
on the minimum performance, location, mounting, testing, and maintenance requirements of automatic fire
detectors used for the protection of occupants, building, space, structure, area, or object to be protected in
accordance with the stated purpose.
Rate compensated and fixed temperature detectors having the proper set points for an area are rarely
subjected to false operations. To avoid nuisance alarms, rate-of-rise detectors should not be located where
sudden temperature changes normally occur, such as near loading platforms, furnace doors, or school
doorways.
Smoke detectors should not be located in areas where high levels of detector contamination (normally) are
likely to occur, such as near air ducts, airport hangars, garages, and furnace areas.
Waterflow switches must be mounted on sprinkler risers in order to sense the flow of water in a sprinkler
system. The installation of waterflow switches must be in accordance with NFPA 13, Standard for the
Installation of Sprinkler Systems.
6.2.4 Audible Alarm Notification Appliances

Audible alarm notification appliances must be installed so as to be protected against the effects of
temperature, vermin, corrosion, humidity, and physical damage. Appliances intended for use in special
environments (such as outdoors or in hazardous locations) or where subject to tampering, must be listed for
the intended application. Where guards or covers are employed for protection, they must be listed for use
with the appliance, and their effect on the appliance's field performance must be taken into account.
Audible alarm notification appliances intended for operation in the public mode must be installed so that their
sound level is at least 15 dBA above the average ambient sound level, or 5 dBA above a maximum ambient
sound level lasting for 60 seconds or longer (whichever is greater), as measured 1.5 m (5 ft.) above the floor
in the area required to be served by the system using the A-weighted scale (dBA). They can be installed on
walls or ceilings in accordance with NFPA 72 chapter 18 and the manufacturer's published instructions.
6.2.5 Visible Alarm Notification Appliances

Visible alarm notification appliances are available separately or in combination with audible alarm notification
appliances. Their primary purpose is to provide hearing-impaired occupants of a building with notification of a
fire emergency and to provide emergency notification to occupants in areas subject to high ambient noise
conditions.
Visible alarm notification appliances must be located so that the operating effect of the appliance can be seen
by the intended viewers. The appliances must be of a type, size, intensity, and number so that the viewer can
tell when they have been illuminated, regardless of the viewer's orientation.

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NFPA 72 chapter 18 contains detailed requirements for the installation of visible alarm appliances, including
their location, spacing, and intensity in rooms, corridors, and sleeping areas, on walls, and on ceilings. The
user of this manual should refer to the NFPA document and to the manufacturer's published instructions for
complete installation information.
6.2.6 Visible Alarm Signal Annunciators

Annunciators must be located where they are readily accessible and to facilitate an efficient response by the
responsible operating personnel. The use of an annunciator at the main entrance to a building is
recommended to permit responding fire service personnel to locate the fire quickly.
NFPA 72 requires that visible annunciators be capable of displaying all zones in alarm. If all zones in alarm
are not displayed simultaneously the zone of origin must be displayed and there must be an indication that
other zones are in alarm. At minimum, each floor of a building is required to be a separate zone. if a floor of
the building is subdivided into multiple zones by fire or smoke barriers and the fire plan for the protected
premises allows relocation of occupants from the zone of origin to another zone on the same floor, each zone
on the floor must be annunciated separately. Where the system serves multiple buildings, each building must
be annunciated separately.
6.2.7 Permanent Recorders

Punch registers and printers are normally located adjacent to the FACU or in remote annunciator locations
where they can be readily accessed by responsible operating personnel.
6.2.8 Trouble Signal Appliances

Visible and audible trouble signals and visible indication of their restoration to normal are required be
indicated at
a. the FACU for protected premises alarm systems;
b. the building fire command center for in-building fire emergency voice/alarm communications
systems;
c. central station, remote station, or proprietary supervising station location(s) for applicable systems
installed in compliance with chapter 26.
Typically, in today’s systems, the audible and visual (LED) trouble signal for protected premises alarm
systems is located within the main FACU. It may also be found in remote panels and annunciators.
6.3 Power Supplies

6.3.1 Number of Sources Required
Unless provided with a compliant uninterruptible power supply (UPS) in compliance with NFPA 111, Standard
on Stored Electrical Energy Emergency and Standby Power Systems, for a Type O, Class 24, Level 1
system, all fire alarm systems installed in accordance with NFPA 72 require two power supplies: a primary
(main) power supply used to operate the system and a secondary (standby) power supply used to operate
the fire alarm system in the event of a failure of the primary (main) power supply.
6.3.2 Primary (Main) Power Supplies

The most widely used source for the primary (main) power supply is one phase of the commercial 240/120-
volt AC electric light and power service available in most buildings. If necessary, a properly installed
compliant engine-driven generator may be used instead. As an example, per NFPA 72, it would be usable
where no commercial power was available, like a seasonal camp in the middle of the woods.

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Connections to the power service must be on a dedicated branch circuit. The circuit and connections must be
mechanically protected. The circuit disconnecting means must be accessible only to authorized personnel
and be clearly marked "FIRE ALARM" for fire alarm systems, “EMERGENCY COMMUNICATIONS” for
emergency communications systems or “FIRE ALARM/ECS” for combination fire alarm and emergency
communications systems. NFPA 72 requires that the location of the circuit disconnecting means be
permanently identified at the FACU.
6.3.3 Secondary (Standby) Power Supplies

Secondary (standby) power supplies must be capable of operating the connected fire alarm system in the
event of failure of the primary (main) power supply for specified periods of time under maximum normal load
and alarm load conditions. Battery calculations must include a 20 percent safety margin to the calculated
amp-hour rating to compensate for degradation and aging. The specified periods of time vary depending
upon the type of system and, in the case of proprietary systems, how the system is used.
Table 6-1 shows specified periods of time under maximum normal load and alarm load conditions required
by NFPA standards (NFPA 72). (Note that previous editions of NFPA 72 called for 60 hours of maximum
normal load for both auxiliary systems and remote supervising station systems.)
Table 6-1 Operating periods required by NFPA standards

System Type Maximum Normal Load Alarm Load
Protected premises (local) systems 24 hours 5 minutes
Supervising station facilities and 24 hours*

equipment
In-building fire emergency voice/alarm 24 hours 15 minutes**

communications
High-power speaker arrays 7 days 60 minutes**
used for wide-area mass notification
systems
Textual visible appliances 2 hours***
Emergency command 24 hours Not applicable
centers of a wide-area mass notification
systems
In-building mass notification systems 24 hours 15 minutes**
* Supervising station facilities and equipment shall be capable of supporting operations for a minimum of 24 hours.
** Duration specified is at maximum connected alarm load.
*** After loss of primary power, textual visible appliances shall have sufficient secondary power to operate for a minimum of 2 hours
of continuous display time during an emergency event.
The maximum normal load for fire alarm systems generally includes only monitoring current. NFPA 72
requires that the secondary (standby) power supply be capable of operating the system continuously for the
period specified under maximum normal load followed by the period specified under alarm load, depending
on the type of system.
Maximum normal load for supervising station facilities and equipment depends on how the system is applied.
Some systems may be dormant normally and only monitoring current (including the two-way transmissions
on multiplex systems) and other continuously energized circuits need to be considered in calculating
maximum normal loads. However, when alarms or supervisory signals are received, lamps and peripheral
equipment are frequently turned on. Printers that might get a real fire signal once a month can get hundreds
of signals an hour if guard patrols report to the system or other supervisory services are being monitored. The

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maximum normal load for supervising station facilities and equipment must consider worst caseloads under
normal operating conditions.
Since the function of in-building emergency voice/alarm communication systems and in-building MNS is to
provide communications to people in buildings that are deemed to be impractical to totally evacuate, it is
necessary to require that these systems remain functional beyond the usual five minutes of alarm. NFPA 72
requires this period to be 15 minutes at the maximum connected alarm load. The nature of the use of a voice
system during an emergency condition is sporadic, and the number of speaker circuits selected varies. NFPA
72 considers 15 minutes of operation at maximum connected load to be roughly equivalent to two hours of
normal use.
Secondary (standby) power supplies are used in two basic forms. In one form, the secondary power supply is
not directly connected to the system but is switched in when primary operating power fails. The switching can
take place either in a building system switchover point or at the fire alarm system control unit. In the other
form, the primary (main) source of power is of an uninterruptable nature supplied from a compliant UPS or a
float-charged battery where the battery is floated across the primary (main) power supply to the fire alarm
system control unit. In either case, the trouble signal is required to indicate loss of the primary (main) power
supply.
The only exception permitted by the NFPA standards to sounding the trouble signal upon loss of primary
(main) power is when the fire alarm systems get their primary (main) power by connection to a building power
supply that is backed up by an engine-driven generator in accordance with the requirements of sections
10.6.7 and 10.6.11, provided that the generator is tested weekly in accordance with chapter 14. When the
secondary power source for protected premises fire alarm systems and emergency communications systems
is from a compliant engine-driven generator the system would only be required to have four hours of battery
standby in accordance with NFPA 72.
6.3.4 Batteries
6.3.4.1 Storage Batteries
Storage batteries must be marked with the month and year of manufacture using the format “month/year” and
located so that the equipment, including overcurrent protective devices, are not adversely affected by battery
gases. If not located in or adjacent to the control unit, the batteries and their charger location must be
permanently identified at the control unit.
Battery cells must be suitably insulated against grounds and shorts and mounted in such a manner as not to
be subject to mechanical damage. Racks and frames must also be suitably protected against deterioration.
Storage batteries must be trickle-charged or float-charged from a reliable power source to keep them fully
charged under normal operation. Protection against excessive load current by overcurrent devices and from
damage caused by an excessive rate of charge must be provided.
Integral meters or readily accessible terminal facilities for the connection of portable meters are required to
verify the battery voltage and charging current. The batteries and battery chargers are required to be
monitored for integrity and to report a trouble on the FACU upon detection of a fault condition.
6.3.4.2 Primary (Dry Cell) Batteries

Primary (dry cell) batteries must not be used except as the sole source of power for a low power radio
(wireless) initiating device where use requirements in accordance with NFPA 72 are met.
6.4 Requirements for Installation of Wiring and Equipment

Refer to article 760 of NFPA 70 for requirements for installation of fire alarm wiring and equipment.

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6.5 Manufacturer's Published Instructions

Installation wiring must be in accordance with the procedures and recommendations of the fire alarm system
manufacturer. Typically, the manufacturer's published instructions may recommend the use of straight lay,
twisted wire, coaxial cable, microphone cable, shielded cable, special fire retardant cable, or low smoke–
producing multi-conductor cable.
6.6 Local Codes

All fire alarm systems must be installed in accordance with protected premises fire alarm and electrical
codes. Most local authorities have adopted the National Electrical Code (NFPA 70 [NEC]) as their local
electrical code. Some localities have added requirements to the NEC, or have completely written their own
code. In any event, it is very important to check with the local electrical and/or fire inspector to determine what
the code requirements are for installing fire alarm systems.
6.7 Types of Circuits

The majority of fire alarm systems are powered by 120 V, 60 Hz. This voltage is transformed down to 12 or
24 volts dc, typically 24 volts. In terms of the power and the type of wire that may be used, fire alarm circuits
are broken into two types: non-power-limited and power-limited. These circuits are also defined in detail in the
NEC, article 760.
Caution - Low voltage systems, as mentioned above, are generally derived through the transformation
of 120-volt sources. This higher voltage is present in most control units. In addition, fan control circuits
and circuits to control other equipment may be present in the control unit. These circuits are frequently
120 volts or more, depending upon the application.
6.8 Intermixing of Circuits

6.8.1 Non-Power-Limited Circuits and Conductors
6.8.1.1 With Class 1 Circuits
Non-power-limited fire alarm circuits may be run in the same enclosure, cable, or raceway with class 1
circuits, provided all conductors are insulated for the maximum voltage of any conductor in the enclosure or
raceway, and installed per manufacturer's published instructions. Care may be required to keep separation
between power-limited and non-power-limited wiring.
6.8.1.2 With Power Supply Circuits

Power supply and non-power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors are permitted in the same enclosure, cable,
or raceway only where connected to the same equipment.
See article 760 of the NEC for the full requirements for the selection and installation of conductors in non-
power-limited fire alarm circuits.
6.8.2 Power-Limited Circuits and Conductors (NFPA 70, Article 760-136)

6.8.2.1 With Class 2 and Class 3 Circuits
6.8.2.1.1 Class 2 Circuits
Power-limited fire alarm circuits may be run in the same cable, enclosure, cable tray, raceway, or cable
routing assembly with class 2 circuits provided that the insulation of the class 2 circuit conductors is at least
equal to what is required for the power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors.
6.8.2.1.2 Class 3 Circuits

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Two or more power-limited fire alarm circuits may be run in the same enclosure, cable, or raceway with class
3 circuits.
6.8.2.2 With Electric Light, Power, Class 1, NPLFA, and Medium Powered Broadband
Communications Circuit Conductors
6.8.2.2.1 Separated by Barriers
Power-limited fire alarm circuit cables are permitted to be installed with class 1, non-power-limited fire alarm,
and medium-power networked-powered broadband communications circuits provided they are separated by
a barrier.
6.8.2.2.2 6.8.2.2.2 Separated by Raceway within Enclosures

Power-limited fire alarm circuits in enclosures are permitted to be installed with class 1, non-power-limited
fire alarm, and medium-power networked-powered broadband communications circuits provided they are
installed in, and separated by, a raceway.
6.8.2.2.3 Associated Systems within Enclosures

Power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors in compartments, enclosures, device boxes, outlet boxes, or
similar fittings are permitted to be installed with electric light, power, class 1, non-power-limited fire alarm, and
medium-power networked-powered broadband communications circuits only where they are introduced
solely to connect the equipment connected to the power-limited fire alarm circuits, provided the following:
a. The electric light, power, class 1, non-power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power networked-
powered broadband communications circuit conductors are separated from power-limited fire alarm
circuit conductors and cables by at least 0.25 inch (6 mm); OR
b. The circuit conductors operate at 150 volts or less to ground, AND
i. The fire alarm power-limited circuits use type FPL, FPLR, FPLP or compliant substitute
cables provided the power-limited cable conductors extending beyond the jacket are
separated from other circuit conductors by at least 0.25 inch (6 mm), or by a non-conductive
sleeve or barrier; OR
ii. The power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors are installed as non-power-limited circuits in
accordance with NFPA 70, 2014 edition, article 760-46.
6.8.2.2.4 Enclosures with Single Opening

In enclosures that only have a single opening, power-limited conductors are permitted to enter through a
single fitting with electric light, power, class 1, non-power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power
networked-powered broadband communications circuits only where they are introduced solely to connect
the equipment connected to the power-limited fire alarm circuits, or to other circuits controlled by the fire
alarm system to which other conductors in the enclosure are connected, provided the conductors are
separated from the conductors of other circuits by a continuous and firmly fixed non-conductor, such as
flexible tubing.
6.8.2.2.5 Hoistways
In hoistways, power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors must be installed in rigid metal conduit, rigid
nonmetallic conduit, intermediate metal conduit, liquid tight flexible nonmetallic conduit, or electrical metallic
tubing. For elevators or similar equipment, power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors are permitted to be
installed in accordance with NFPA 70, 2014 edition, article 620-21.
6.8.2.2.6 Other Applications

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For all other applications, power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors must be separated by 2 inches (50mm)
from conductors of any electric light, power, class 1, non-power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power
networked-powered broadband communications circuits unless one of the following conditions are met:
a. Either (a) all of the electric light, power, class 1, non-power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power
networked-powered broadband communications circuit conductors or (b) all of the power-limited fire
alarm circuit conductors are in a raceway, metal sheathed, metal clad, non-metallic sheathed, or type
UF cables
b. All of the electric light, power, class 1, non-power-limited fire alarm, and medium-power networked-
powered broadband communications circuit conductors are permanently separated from all of the
power-limited fire alarm circuit conductors by a continuously fixed non-conductor, such as porcelain
tubes or flexible tubing, in addition to the insulation on the conductors
NOTE: Power-limited circuits may be reclassified and installed as non-power-limited circuits with other non-power-limited
and class 1 circuits under the following conditions:
a. The power-limited circuit markings must be eliminated.
b. The entire circuit must be installed in compliance with article 760 part II requirements for non-power-limited fire
alarm circuits.
See article 760 of the NEC for the requirements for the selection and installation of conductors in power-
limited fire alarm circuits.
6.9 Enclosed Versus Exposed Wiring

Power-limited and non-power-limited fire alarm installation wiring may be installed in enclosed raceways or
cable trays. However, the NEC and many local codes permit both non-power-limited and power-limited wiring
to be either run in raceways, exposed on the surface of ceiling and sidewalls or fished in concealed spaces
where cables listed for the purpose are used and where the requirements of articles 760-130 (power-limited)
and 760-53 (non-power-limited) are met.
Where wires are permitted to be run exposed, they must be adequately supported and protected from
mechanical damage. Where mounted within seven feet of the floor, exposed cable must be securely fastened
in an approved manner at intervals of not less than 18 inches. In the NEC, some exceptions are taken to this
requirement.
For non-power-limited circuits, the NEC permits the use of specific types of non-power-limited cables
operating at 150 volts or less. A separate power-limited series of cable is recognized for power-limited circuit
wiring. With the use restrictions and markings, as required by the NEC, these cables may be run exposed
(not in a raceway). Both types of circuits require the use of cables listed as being resistant to the spread of
fire and smoke and suitable for the purpose (power classification of circuit and whether used for plenum,
riser, or general purpose applications).
It should be noted that the NEC defines the space over a hung ceiling used for environmental air handling
purposes as "other space used for environmental air" and not as a plenum.
A plenum is described in the NEC as being a ductway specifically manufactured to transport environmental
air. Listed non-power-limited plenum cable may be used without a raceway in other space used for
environmental air but it may not be used without a raceway in the space meeting the code's definition of a
plenum even though it may be known as plenum cable. Listed power-limited plenum cable may be used
without a raceway in spaces used for both environmental air and space meeting the NEC’s definition of a
plenum and environmental air handling space.
This is an important difference because some NFPA standards define plenum differently, and the NEC's
"other space used for environmental air" is almost universally referred to as a "plenum."

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6.10 Selecting Conductors and Cables

The NEC article 760 spells out in detail all the requirements for wire, cable, and their markings, and
installation methods. All of this detail is not repeated here. Therefore, the user of this manual should also
refer to the NEC article 760 that governs all electrical fire alarm signaling system installations.
The three specific types are classified for use based on their properties in the presence of fire. The three
classifications are for use in plenums, risers, and general wiring applications. To be listed, all these types
must exhibit resistance to spread of fire. In addition, plenum rated cables must have low smoke producing
characteristics so that products of combustion are not created within an air handling system, and riser rated
cables must have low flame spread characteristics so that they do not vertically propagate flame from floor to
floor.
6.11 Cable Markings

All cable listed for fire alarm use must be distinctly marked to identify its permitted application. The markings
must include the following type designations:
Application Non-power-limited Power-limited

For plenum use NPLFP FPLP
For riser use NPLFR FPLR
For general wiring NPLF FPL
For two-hour circuit integrity NPLFP-CI, NPLFR-CI, NPLF-CI FPLP-CI, FPLR-CI, FPL-CI
Note that the marking table is for cables that are listed for fire alarm use. Any solid, stranded, or bunch tinned
copper cables meeting the requirements of chapter 3 of the NEC and/or permitted as substitutes for power-
limited cable may be used for fire alarm installations without being listed for fire alarm use. Also note that the
wire classifications of general, riser, and plenum are for wire installed exposed (outside of conduit or other
raceway). Use of these classifications is not required, but is permitted, for cables installed in conduit or other
raceways.
In addition, with some limitations, the NEC permits substitution for power-limited fire alarm cable using power-
limited cable from articles 725 and 800. The permitted substitutions are shown in a chart in the NEC. The
same chart shows a cable substitution hierarchy for fire alarm, communications, and remote control and other
signaling applications.
6.12 Identification of Circuits

Where fire alarm circuits are intermixed with other circuits in terminal boxes, the fire alarm circuits must be
identified.
Attach a tag marked "FIRE ALARM CIRCUIT" to the fire alarm circuit wires. This may help prevent any
inadvertent tampering with the circuits, and also provide identification of the circuits for maintenance and
testing.
Some jurisdictions and building codes may require all conduit and boxes to be red in color.
6.13 Monitoring for Integrity

Most fire alarm circuits, including radio pathways, are monitored for integrity, the exception being circuits
accepted as supplementary by the AHJ. The manufacturer's published instructions must be followed when

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installing to ensure proper monitoring operation. Monitoring means that a fault in the installation wiring will
result in a trouble signal at the FACU. A fault condition may be either a single break (opening) in the wiring or
a ground fault that prevents normal operation of the system. In addition, a short between the two wires of an
alarm NAC must be monitored so that the energized state of the circuit is not the first indication of a trouble
condition. An SLC must be monitored for a single open, short, or a ground fault (where a ground affects the
operation of the system).
On conventional initiating device and NACs, monitoring is accomplished usually by passing a small amount
of current through the system's interconnecting wiring and an end of line resistor. The interconnecting wiring
is generally a pair of wires from the FACU to the detection devices and notification appliances. To ensure that
monitoring is maintained to all devices, T-tapping of conventional circuits is not permitted. Signaling line or
addressable communication class B circuits do allow T-taps since each individual device is capable of
communicating its status to the FACU. The manufacturer's recommendations will provide adequate
instructions for proper installation and wiring requirements.
6.14 Lightning/Surge Protection (Circuit Protection)

Lightning/surge protection, when required, must be installed where the outside wiring enters the building. A
ground wire must be installed per the NEC and/or manufacturer's published instructions.
Lightning/surge protection is especially important for circuits that go outside and enter another building, either
aerially or underground. Circuits that are exposed to the elements on the roofs of buildings should be
considered for lightning protection, with lightning protectors mounted on or near the floor that is being
protected. Under no circumstances should separate lightning/surge protection be mounted inside a control
unit. Transients should be bypassed to ground at the farthest possible distance from the control unit, as close
as possible to where the wiring enters the building, and before the lightning-susceptible wires intermix with
other circuits.
This circuit protection is in addition to that which is required to be built in to the controls.
6.15 Outside Wiring

Fire alarm wiring that runs outside of a building is typically run overhead on poles or buried. Wires run
overhead must use a messenger, or support, and be constructed to withstand the strain of wind, ice, and its
own weight. They must be suitable for exposure to sunlight (UV) to avoid premature failure.
Wires that are buried must have a weatherproof casing, such as polyethylene, and a rodent barrier. See
article 800 of the NEC. Outside wiring does not have to be listed for fire alarm use. The NEC dictates how far
(length) the outdoor cable is allowed to travel inside the building before transitioning to indoor wiring.

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Section 7
System Start-Up Procedure
7.1 General
After the installation of the fire alarm system has been completed, the system should be verified to ensure
that it is operating properly. It is customary for manufacturers to include their recommended test and
maintenance instructions for the system with the control unit. Where these instructions are provided, the
system should be tested in accordance with the provided information. Where such instructions are not
supplied, the following procedures will serve as a guide. Because of the variations in system design among
manufacturers and the large number of operations that are offered, it will be necessary to select the tests that
apply to the system being commissioned. The following tests are based on the assumption that the fire alarm
equipment is required to be installed in accordance with the NEC and designed to meet NFPA 72, National
Fire Alarm Code, and is listed and/or approved.
7.2 Check of Installation Wiring

7.2.1 Preliminary
Prior to connecting the installation wiring to the installation wiring terminals provided on the control unit, the
wiring should be checked for extraneous voltages and shorts, opens, and grounds as detailed in the following
sections. All faults should be located and eliminated before the installation wires are connected to the control
unit. The other end of these wires should be connected to the remote equipment (initiating devices,
notification appliances, annunciators, and so forth) in the normal manner. An insulation tester should not be
used to check for grounds because the predominant use of solid state components in today's fire alarm
systems may require disconnecting a large proportion of system equipment. Consider using an analog volt-
ohmmeter as a primary circuit tester. Digital volt-ohmmeters typically do not provide sufficient power on
resistance to detect grounds. Also, the indicating needle on an analog volt-ohmmeter (VOM) provides faster
visual response than a digital VOM, which can save considerable time.
Where a smoke detector is the plug-in type, the installation wiring is terminated at the detector base but the
detector itself is not plugged in until after the installation wiring tests have been completed. Since the circuits
between the base terminals are usually completed within the detector, it is necessary to short certain
terminals with jumpers to perform the installation wiring tests. These jumpers are usually installed on the base
by the manufacturer or are described in the published installation instructions. The jumpers should be
removed after the installation wiring tests have been completed and prior to plugging in the detectors.
Where the smoke detector is not of the plug-in type, the detector wires should be connected to the circuit for
the test.
7.2.2 Test for Extraneous Voltages

Each installation wire should be tested at the control unit for extraneous (stray) voltages, using a voltmeter.
Check each installation wire for stray voltage to ground and to associated wires. Some noise may be
measured during this test because of the antenna effect of unloaded wires. This type of voltage will typically
not affect circuit operation and will disappear when the installation wires are connected to the control unit.
This test should be conducted with the required end-of-line device installed.
7.2.3 Test for Shorts and Opens

Each installation wire should be tested at the control unit end for open circuits and short circuits to all other
installation wires, using an ohmmeter. The normal expected resistance between each pair of wires can
usually be determined from the installation wiring diagram and table 7-1.

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7.2.3.1 Initiating Device Circuits

For class B IDCs, the normal resistance between wires depends on the location of the end-of-line device.
Where the end-of-line device is located outside the control unit, as shown in figure 7-1, the resistance
measured between wires 1 and 2 at the control unit should be equal in value to the end-of-line device. Where
the end-of-line device is located in the control unit, as shown in figure 7-2, the ohmmeter should measure
infinite resistance between wires 1 and 2, since wires 3 and 4 are not connected to the end-of-line device
during this test. The resistance between wires 1 and 4 and wires 2 and 3 should also be infinite. The
resistance between wires 1 and 3 and wires 2 and 4 should be close to zero. The actual reading should be
equal to the ohmic resistance of the copper in the wire run. To make sure that wires 1 and 3 and wires 2 and
4 are not connected in more than one place, it is recommended practice to temporarily open the circuit at the
last initiating device in each circuit. While the circuits are open, the ohmmeter should read infinity between
wires 1 and 3 and wires 2 and 4. The final test should be to short 3 and 4, and measure the total ohms
between 1 and 2. Ensure that the ohmic resistance between wires 1 and 2 is less than the maximum allowed
by the manufacturer's published instructions.
Figure 7-1 End-of-line device on two-wire class B initiating device circuit
Figure 7-2 End-of-line device in control unit on four-wire class A initiating device circuit
For class A IDCs, the normal resistance between wires will depend on the circuitry used to provide the class
A operation.
7.2.3.2 Notification Appliance Circuits

Polarized notification appliances are connected in parallel as shown in figure 7-3. However, these circuits are
terminated by an end-of-line device to permit supervision of the installation wires. The resistance between
wires 1 and 2 should be measured with the positive terminal of the ohmmeter connected to wire 1 so that
meter current will flow only through the end-of-line device and not through any of the appliances. The meter
reading should be equal to the resistance of the end-of-line device. Sometimes the last appliance in the circuit
is installed so as to serve as the end-of-line device. In this case, the ohmmeter should read the resistance of
the appliance.

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NOTE: If the resistance between wires 1 and 2 is less than the end-of-line device, one or more of the appliances may be
installed incorrectly.
Figure 7-3 Polarized diode-type notification appliances connected in parallel
Speaker-type notification appliances are also connected in parallel, as shown in figure 7-4, and terminated by
an end-of-line device to permit supervision of the installation wires.
Figure 7-4 Speaker-type notification appliances connected in parallel
The meter reading between wires 1 and 2 should be equal in value to the end-of-line device. The capacitor
blocks direct current flow through the speaker coil.
Table 7-1 Resistance of conductors

Size AWG DC Resistance per
1000 Feet (ohms)
18 6.5
16 4.1
14 2.6
12 1.6

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7.2.4 Test for Grounds

All installation wires should be checked for grounds with an analog ohmmeter. All installation wires should
test free of grounds, except for the grounded leg of the main power supply, unless otherwise indicated in the
manufacturer's published instructions.
7.2.5 Visual Inspection

The system should be inspected before the power is turned on, to ensure that it complies with all of the
published installation instructions. All installation wires should be properly terminated and dressed in a
workman-like manner. Spare (unused) circuits should be terminated in accordance with the manufacturer's
published instructions.
All plug-in components should be fully seated. All switches should be in their normal position. All connections
should be tight. The control unit should be clean so that particles of dust or dirt cannot interfere with proper
operation.
7.2.6 Check of Power Sources

The system primary, secondary, and trouble power supply terminals, if provided, should be connected to their
sources of power as shown in the system wiring diagram(s).
7.2.6.1 Old Alternating Current Systems

For alternating current systems, the primary power supply will usually be a three-wire 240/120 volt AC supply
having a continuous, unfused, grounded neutral conductor, with one phase or side of the circuit used for the
primary system operating power supply and the other for the trouble signal power supply.
7.2.6.2 Older, Low-Voltage Direct Current Systems

Low-voltage, DC systems usually operate on 24 volts direct current obtained by rectification of transformer-
reduced 120 volts AC power. For these systems, the transformer may be mounted within the cabinet as an
integral part of the control unit, or externally.
Low-voltage, direct current systems are required to operate in a normal manner during periods of failure of
the primary system power supply. Where rechargeable batteries are used to supply secondary or trouble
signal power, the system should include a battery charger that automatically maintains the battery fully
charged under all conditions of normal operation. If the battery charger is also used to power the system, it
should have sufficient capacity to power the system and charge the battery under maximum load conditions.
The installation wiring between all direct current power supplies and the control unit should be checked for
correct polarity.
The adjustable battery charger if so supplied should be adjusted for proper charging current in accordance
with the manufacturer's published instructions. Some battery chargers do not require adjustment. The battery
should be tested and brought up to full charge prior to turning the system over to the owner of the building.
7.3 Normal Operation (Normal Monitoring Condition)

After the visual inspection has been completed and any faults corrected, the control unit can be energized to
obtain the normal monitoring condition. In this condition, all monitoring circuits should be energized;
appliances and all lamps should be in their normal condition.
In older systems, whenever a system is in its normal monitoring condition, a trouble signal should sound if its
trouble signal-silencing switch is in the silence position. Whenever a trouble signal has been silenced, a

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visible indication of the silenced condition is required by NFPA 72. The use of a common trouble and trouble-
silenced indication is permitted. Trouble signal silencing switches may be either of the toggle type or
momentary contact type, depending on the manufacturer. A toggle switch requires manual restoration to
normal since the trouble signal must resound when all trouble conditions have cleared and the switch is in the
"silenced" position. When the silencing switch is returned to its normal position, the audible trouble signal
should be silent and the trouble lamp off.
Where a momentary-contact silencing switch is used, the trouble signal silenced indication is automatically
reset (to off) when all troubles have been cleared. An important exception to this operation is the requirement
by NFPA 72 that restoration to normal of any affected initiating circuit on a proprietary supervising station
system must be acknowledged by the operator. Restoration of the trouble indications to normal are delayed
until after this acknowledgment by the operator. A system left in trouble and silenced should resound within
24 hours.
7.4 Monitoring of Circuits for Integrity (Electrical Supervision)

7.4.1 General
With the power turned on and the system operating in the normal monitoring condition, all of the monitored
circuits extending from the control unit should be tested separately for proper operation by using the
manufacturer's published instructions. Fault conditions should be introduced in a manner such that no more
than a single fault exists at any one time.
After each test of a monitored circuit, the system should be restored to normal before proceeding to the next
test.
7.4.2 Power Supply Circuits

Interrupting the primary or secondary power conductors should result in a trouble signal. Restoring the
primary or secondary power should automatically return the system to normal operation.
7.4.3 Initiating Device and Notification Appliance Circuits

An open in any IDC, or either an open or short on any NAC, should result in a trouble signal. Restoring the
circuit to normal should silence the trouble signal automatically if a trouble signal latch-in is not provided. Most
class A initiation circuits latch-in when an open trouble occurs, and will require a reset to clear after the break
is repaired. A single ground fault on any IDC or on any NAC should also result in a trouble signal. Removal of
the ground fault should restore the system to the normal monitoring condition.
On ungrounded systems with a ground detection circuit, a ground on any monitored circuit should sound a
trouble signal.
7.4.4 Overcurrent Protection Devices

Verify that fuses match the marked ratings on equipment or manufacturer's published instructions.
7.4.5 Municipal Circuits

Systems connected to a municipal communications center or directly to fire headquarters should not be
tested without first informing the local fire authorities that the system is being tested.
Opening the circuit to a shunt-type municipal fire alarm box will cause an alarm on the municipal fire alarm
system. The wires to a shunt-type box should never be grounded since this would cause a ground fault on
the municipal system.

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Opening the circuit to a local energy–type municipal fire alarm box should sound a trouble signal on the local
system and have no effect on the municipal system. Grounding the circuit should produce the same results
except that no trouble signal will sound for ungrounded systems without ground detection.
Opening the reverse polarity circuit to the municipal communications center or the fire headquarters in a
remote supervising station system should sound a trouble signal at the designated location(s). A single
ground on the circuit will sound a trouble signal only if the system includes a ground detection circuit.
Opening the DACT circuit should cause a fault on the control panel. Reporting to the local control
panel within 200 seconds, and the remote station should only go into trouble if it doesn’t receive a
check-in signal a minimum of every 24 hours.
7.4.6 Supplementary Circuits

Supplementary circuits need not be monitored for integrity. Unmonitored supplementary circuits should be
designed so that a fault on these circuits will not interfere with the operation of the balance of the system.
Great care should be exercised in determining which circuits are to be considered supplementary. Where
supplementary circuits are provided, they should also be checked for proper operation. See section 2.11 for
more details.
7.4.7 Annunciator Circuits

Annunciators not monitored for integrity meeting the requirements for supplementary circuits are permitted
only where they are located on the control unit, they are not the primary annunciator, or they have been
classified as supplementary by the AHJ. Monitored annunciators should be tested in the same manner as
monitored initiation appliance circuits.
7.5 Alarm Operation

All manual alarm initiating devices should be operated individually to test for proper operation of the system
during the alarm condition. All automatic alarm initiating devices, including heat, smoke, and water-flow
devices, should be tested in accordance with the manufacturer's published instructions.
The operation of any fire alarm initiating device should result in a fire alarm signal.
On non-coded systems, the alarm notification appliances should sound in temporal pattern (or in accordance
with local codes or regulations) until the circuit is restored manually or the time limit cutout, if provided,
operates.
On coded systems, the code after each initiation should sound for a minimum of three rounds (typically four).
On presignal systems, the presignal alarm should only sound on presignal alarm notification appliances.
The general alarm of a presignal system should sound on all the alarm notification appliances. This should be
verified by listening to each appliance during any one of the alarm initiating device tests.
For both coded and zone-coded systems, a test should be made to ensure that each initiating device
transmits its correct code.
The connection to auxiliary and remote supervising station fire alarm systems should be tested at least once
with the approval of the appropriate fire authorities.
On annunciated systems, the annunciator should be checked as each initiating device is tested to make sure
that the proper point is annunciated.

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7.6 Authority Having Jurisdiction

Throughout this training manual, the term "authority having jurisdiction" (AHJ) has been used. This is the
person or organization responsible for the final acceptance of the installed system. On any one installation,
the AHJ may consist of a governmental authority (such as a fire marshal), an owner, an owner's designated
representative, an insurance authority, a hired inspection company, or any combination of the above. To
complicate matters, there is a hierarchical relationship among AHJs. For example, an owner AHJ would not
be expected to be able to overrule a government AHJ exercising his legal authority in requiring compliance
with any local, state, or federal laws or codes.

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Section 8
Proper Maintenance of Fire Alarm Systems
8.1 Periodic Maintenance

8.1.1 General
When performing periodic maintenance on fire alarm systems, it is helpful to have the following available:
a. The manufacturer's published installation and user instructions for the system control unit and all
connected peripheral devices, including smoke or flame detectors and other specialized
components.
b. The "as built" drawings of the system that should include the location of all devices and appliances,
wiring methods, and the sequence of the connections between the devices, appliances, and control
unit.
c. The locally adopted NFPA standard or code, if maintenance is being performed pursuant to a
specific standard or code. The inspection, testing and maintenance chapter of NFPA 72 specifies the
frequency of testing for devices, appliances, and systems.
d. Any record(s) of tests previously performed as well as the record from tests at system start up to
allow a comparison of the electrical measurements being taken with those previously observed. The
NFPA 72 Record of Completion provides a document that acknowledges the features of the
installation, operation (performance) service, and equipment at the time of the installation. The record
of completion is also required to be updated after system alterations or additions. Such comparisons
can be a valuable aid for rapid troubleshooting. Additionally, future faults may be prevented by
finding the source of a difference in an IDC resistance, voltage, or current at control unit terminals,
and resistance to ground.
8.1.2 System Performance and Integrity

One way to provide a thorough test of system performance and integrity is to repeat the tests outlined in the
startup procedures published by the equipment manufacturer. If not available, the NFPA 72 chapter on
inspection, testing and maintenance and sections 6 and 7 of this manual can be used as a guide. Always
remember that the NFPA 72 chapter on inspection, testing and maintenance is the minimum testing
requirement and frequency.
8.2 Fire Alarm Control Units

8.2.1 Printed Circuit Board Assemblies of Modules
Most modern FACUs do not require periodic adjustment or field repair other than replacement of a defective
module, printed circuit board assembly, or the possible adjustment of battery charging voltage.
Most control units now utilize printed circuit boards with numerous integrated circuits and miniature
components that make field servicing at a board level virtually impossible. Defective printed circuit board
assemblies or modules can be best serviced at the manufacturer's plant or at their authorized service facility.
Where the control unit uses printed circuit boards, the boards should be maintained in a clean and dry
environment to ensure proper operation. Exposure to moisture and high humidity can lead to printed circuit
board failure.

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8.2.2 Relay Maintenance

As with printed circuit boards, fire alarm relays have also been miniaturized and the maintenance and
adjustment of any relays should be performed only at the manufacturer's plant or authorized service facility,
or by an organization (or person) having the necessary technical experience, components, and equipment. A
complete stock of spare relays should, therefore, be kept on hand so that an out-of-adjustment relay, or one
with burned out or pitted contacts, can be readily replaced.
Covered relays seal out dust and discourage adjustment.
8.2.3 Battery Charger Maintenance

Low battery voltage is generally an indication that the battery charger or battery needs maintenance. Float-
charged and trickle-charged batteries are normally kept in a fully charged condition at all times except when
the battery provides power for the fire alarm system during primary (main) power supply failures. Before
making any adjustments to a battery charger, consult the manufacturer's published instructions, as some
battery chargers provide automatic charging features where low and high charge rates are automatically
activated. Battery voltage should be checked to insure all cells are operating.
Most modern control units also use sealed or non-maintenance-type batteries. The most popular type of
batteries used are sealed lead acid and typically require replacement every four years. These types of sealed
lead acid batteries should be marked with the date of manufacture.
8.2.4 Battery Maintenance

Batteries should be located in a vented, clean, dry place, preferably on shelves or racks above the floor level,
or in cabinets. With many new control units, the batteries are now located within the control unit.
The electrolyte level of unsealed storage batteries should be checked regularly. If the electrolyte level is low,
distilled water should be added to bring the level up to normal. Most tap water has sufficient metal salts or
chemicals to appreciably reduce battery life. Therefore, distilled water (not tap water) should be used in the
regular maintenance of the electrolyte level.
The NFPA 72 chapter on inspection, testing and maintenance lists the various types of batteries in common
use on fire alarm systems and includes the frequency and methods of testing.
8.2.5 Fuses
Fuse maintenance consists of checking the fuse holders to make sure that good contact is made with the
connectors on each end of the fuse and that they are not corroded. Hot fuses usually indicate either poor
contact or overloaded fuses, or both. A supply of fuses of each ampere size and type should be on hand so
that the equipment will not remain out of service because of a blown fuse. Fuses that exceed the ratings of
those for the circuit should not be used even temporarily.
8.2.6 Circuit Breakers

Magnetic and thermal-type circuit breakers require very little maintenance. However, they should be kept free
of dust.
8.2.7 Condition of Control Unit Cabinets (Dust and Dirt Removal)

The top, bottom, and face of the control unit cabinet in which the equipment is mounted should be kept free of
dust, dirt, and grime. These can cause trouble on printed circuit board connectors, relays, or other open-
contact mechanisms or be a source of corrosion of metal parts.

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Neat arrangement of connecting wires from conduits, raceways, or cables at terminating points will reduce
maintenance time when it is necessary to trace and disconnect a wire in the control unit from its terminal for
isolation and test.
8.3 Non-Coded Manual Fire Alarm Boxes

Maintenance on non-coded manual fire alarm boxes, with or without the presignal feature, should include
periodic operation tests, replacement of broken "breakglass" windows or breakable elements, and checking
terminal connections for loose or corroded connections. In monitored fire alarm systems, a broken connection
should sound a trouble signal.
Fire alarm boxes should be tested by activating the mechanism as someone would do in a fire emergency.
Opening the fire alarm box with a key or tool does not ensure proper operation. Dust and dirt as well as
mechanical degradation may cause the fire alarm box not to alarm when activated in its prescribed manner.
A supply of glass rods, plates, and so forth should be kept on hand for breakglass boxes. Some manual fire
alarm boxes need regular operation to insure the contacts don’t oxidize.
8.4 Coded Manual Fire Alarm Boxes

8.4.1 General
Primarily installed on older control units, all coded manual fire alarm boxes should be operated at regular
intervals and a log kept showing the location of the station and the date when it was last checked. Both
presignal and general alarm features should be checked. The general alarm feature is usually initiated by the
operation of a key-actuated switch mounted on the box.
Since code wheels can come loose on their shafts, they should be checked every five years.
Where coded boxes are equipped with contacts for annunciation, it may be necessary to manually restore the
contacts to their normal position after each alarm by means of a reset key or tool or by replacing the
breakglass element.
Some selective coded manual boxes are equipped with test switches that can be used during regular
maintenance. Inserting the key, plug, or special tool in the test key hole or slot and turning it in one direction
will sound one tap on single-stroke bells or one blast on vibrating bells or horns; turning in the opposite
direction and holding it in that position will permit operation of the station mechanism without sounding an
alarm.
8.4.2 Spring-Driven Fire Alarm Boxes

Maintenance of spring-driven coded manual boxes closely follows that for non-coded boxes. When this type
of selective coded box is operated, a pull handle usually winds a clock spring. When the handle is released,
the spring unwinds and drives a gear train and a code wheel. The rotary motion of the code wheel makes or
breaks a pair of contacts that transmit coded pulses to the control unit. The spring-actuated code mechanism
is usually completely enclosed in a semi-dustproof enclosure made of a transparent material.
CAUTION—In some boxes, pulling the station lever breaks a glass element and/or immediately closes or
opens one or two sets of contacts, in addition to winding the clock spring. The contacts either
operate an annunciator or prevent alarm transmission from fire alarm boxes electrically further
away from the control unit by opening or shorting the line beyond. Care should be taken to
ensure that these contacts function as intended.
Some fire alarm boxes are wound with a key similar to a clock key. In these boxes, the pull-lever mechanism
only starts the code-sending mechanism or auxiliary shunt or annunciator contacts, or both. As with the types
in which pulling an operating lever winds a clock spring, these pre-wound fire alarm boxes cause the code

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wheel to make at least three complete revolutions and sound the associated alarm signals for a minimum of
three rounds of code.
Full rewinding of key rewound spring-driven boxes after each operation should be a regular part of the
maintenance programs.
8.4.3 Motor-Driven Coded Fire Alarm Boxes

The maintenance of motor-driven coded boxes is similar to that for the spring-driven type.
8.5 Automatic Transmitters

The maintenance problems encountered with automatically tripped mechanical transmitters are similar to
those for manual coded boxes because their construction and methods of operation are similar. The
automatic transmitter, however, has a remotely controlled initiating circuit.
Transmitters that can be tripped either manually or electrically should be tested manually and electrically at
least once every year, or more frequently if environmental factors are severe. See the published
manufacturer’s maintenance instructions for non-coded and coded fire alarm boxes.
Like some spring-driven manual fire alarm boxes, pre-wound transmitters require rewinding after operation.
This should be a regular part of the maintenance program. Some transmitters are equipped with a local
trouble buzzer, a light, and silencing switch; some have trouble contacts for connection to the main control
unit; some have a combination of both. When these transmitters are checked periodically, the trouble signal
features should be tested to make sure they are functioning properly.
8.6 Automatic Heat Detectors

8.6.1 Fixed-Temperature Heat Detector
Fixed-temperature-type automatic heat detectors that use fusible elements require little maintenance. This is
true for most types of spot heat detectors. Loose or corroded terminal connections are, however, possible.
Automatic heat detectors should not be painted.
Since testing of a non-restorable fusible element heat detector destroys the fusible element, follow NFPA 72
Test Methods. The most common practice for this category of heat detectors is to replace these units every
15 years.
The NFPA 72 chapter on inspection, testing and maintenance details a test and replacement procedure for
non-restorable fixed temperature heat detectors.
Fixed-temperature detectors of the restorable type can be tested while installed on the ceiling and connected
to the control unit. A heat source held several inches from the detector should cause it to operate. When the
heat source is moved away from the detector, the heat sensor will reset and again be ready for use in
detecting the heat of a fire. To avoid distorting or melting detectors constructed using a thermoplastic
housing, apply the heat slowly by starting at a distance of about a foot and slowly bring it closer to the heat
sensor until the detector alarms.
8.6.2 Rate-of-Rise Heat Detectors

The tubing of line-type rate-of-rise detectors should be tested for pinhole leaks about once a year. The
manufacturer can provide an air test device to check for such leaks. The tubing system should be tested for
operation in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations.

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Spot-type, combination rate-of-rise, and fixed temperature detectors are in common use. Rate-of-rise
detectors can be tested with a heat source. If a heat source is used to test a combination fixed temperature
and rate-of-rise detector with a fusible-element, fixed-temperature feature, the heat source should be
removed quickly after operation of the rate-of-rise feature of the detector to prevent melting of the fusible
element.
Several heat generating testing tools are available for performing heat detector testing. The advantage of
these specifically designed test tools is they have extension pole attachments and output heat at a level that
reduces the chance of damaging the detector. Some of these detector test tools perform both smoke and
heat detector testing as well, and some tools do not require a 120 volt power source.
8.6.3 Rate-Compensation Heat Detectors

Rate-compensation detectors are self-restoring units that can be tested with a heat source.
8.6.4 Explosion-Proof Heat Detectors

Explosion-proof detectors can be fixed-temperature, rate-of-rise, or rate-compensation type. They are
provided within a housing that will contain within the housing any explosion causing a flame or spark that
would otherwise escape to the surrounding atmosphere. If these detectors are tested in an explosive
atmosphere, an explosion-proof heat source unit should be used to generate the heat required to actuate the
detector.
8.7 Smoke Detectors

Smoke detectors do require periodic maintenance. All smoke detectors should be physically tested
functionally at least annually. The normal practice is to test the smoke detector in place by introducing smoke
or a listed smoke aerosol into the detector sensing chamber. The smoke detectors should also be visually
inspected for external dust and dirt as well as for any building obstructions that would interfere with the entry
of smoke into the detector. Smoke detectors, like heat detectors, should not be painted.
Newer analog addressable smoke detectors also provide additional maintenance features such as the
detection of excessive dirt buildup in the detector. This allows the control unit to signal when a smoke
detector’s sensitivity has changed, thereby increasing its susceptibility to false alarm. Many of these analog
addressable detectors also provide an automatic sensitivity test.
For older smoke detectors that do not provide an automatic sensitivity test, sensitivity tests should be
conducted within one year from installation and then on alternate years thereafter if sensitivity is not
changing. After the second required calibration test, if sensitivity tests indicate that the device has remained
within its listed and marked sensitivity range the length of time between calibration tests, is permitted to be
extended to a maximum of five years.
A more detailed description of calibration testing requirements can be found in the NFPA 72 chapter on
inspection, testing and maintenance.
WARNING—Smoke detectors are sensitive electronic devices. The specific detector manufacturer's literature
should be followed in performing any test or maintenance procedure. Failure to follow the
manufacturer's published instructions could damage the detector permanently.
8.8 Sprinkler Waterflow Detectors

Two types of sprinkler waterflow detectors are used.

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8.8.1 Pressure Operated

Pressure switches are usually connected into the intermediate chamber of the main sprinkler pipe of a
sprinkler system. Generally, they have either enclosed mercury-to-metal or micro switch contacts, and they
can be tested by opening the "inspector's test valve." This allows water to flow through the intermediate
chamber of the main sprinkler valve and to the pressure-type waterflow switch and a hydraulically operated
water motor gong, thereby closing or opening the pressure switch contacts and actuating the control unit to
which the detector is connected. Because the contacts are enclosed in a dustproof housing, cleaning is not
required. Electrical connections to the switch should be checked every year.
Some waterflow pressure switches are actuated by a reduction in pressure and are connected to the upper
chamber of the main sprinkler pipe. Such switches can be tested by first closing the main gate valve and then
opening the inspector's test valve, thereby releasing the trapped pressure in the sprinkler piping. This causes
an alarm to sound upon the opening of a sprinkler head even though the main gate valve is closed and only
trapped pressure is released through the sprinkler head. Make certain that the main gate valve is reopened
immediately after the test.
8.8.2 Vane Operated

Vane-type waterflow switches are installed in insertion holes in the sprinkler risers. The whole assembly is
gasketed and bolted with "U" clamps to the piping. The switches generally have either enclosed mercury or
micro switch contacts that are actuated by the forward movement of the paddle lever in the riser when water
flows through the pipes. Usually, there is a pneumatically or electrically operated retard with these switches to
prevent water hammer or pressure surges from operating the contacts. The retard is generally adjustable and
can be set to delay the alarm up to 90 seconds. Where waterflow switch signals are used to shut down
elevator power upon or prior to the discharge of water from sprinklers, the use of devices with time delays is
not permitted.
Vane-type switches used as waterflow detectors can be tested by opening the inspector's test valve at the
highest point in the sprinkler system piping. In this way, the retard timing can be checked.
8.9 Gate-Valve Supervisory Contacts

Gate-valve supervisory contacts are switches that are actuated by the movement of the threaded valve stem
in response to approximately two turns of the gate-valve wheel in the closing direction. The load on the
contacts is usually only a fraction of the contact rating, thus, pitting and undue arcing are not likely to occur.
8.10 Open Stem and Yoke (Os & Y) Valve Supervisory Contacts
Maintenance of OS & Y valve supervisory contacts is similar to that required for gate-valve supervisory
switches.
8.11 Pressure Switches

Pressure switches on dry pipe sprinkler systems respond to high or low air pressure and require the same
maintenance as those used for wet pipe systems.
8.12 Tank Switches for High and Low Alarm Service on Gravity Tanks
Tank switches are actuated by a ball float, which rises and falls with the level of the water in the tank. The
switch mechanism may be a mercury-to-metal type, or an exposed heavy-duty, snap-action-type switch. The
contacts are provided in a cast, nonferrous metal housing provided with a gasket to keep moisture out. The
contacts of the switch, therefore, seldom need attention and, since the exposed contacts are generally of
precious metal, corrosion is not a problem.

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8.13 Differential Pressure Switches

Differential pressure switches are generally of the same type and construction as the high and low water or
air pressure switches and, therefore, require similar maintenance. They are used to start an electric pump
when the pressure in the sprinkler's stem piping is not at least 15 pounds higher than the pressure in the
water piping from the street supply. The pump builds up pressure in the system side by pumping a small
quantity of water taken from the street side of the main sprinkler valve. A second differential pressure switch
sounds an alarm whenever the difference in pressure between the street and system sides falls well below
15 pounds (usually due to pump failure). Pump failure may be caused by the loss of power to the motor, a
burned-out motor, or a burned-out bearing on either the pump or motor.
8.14 Inspector's Test Valves

Inspector's test valves are the conventional hydraulic, wheel-actuated valves and require maintenance similar
to the valves used on regular water-supply plumbing systems.
8.15 Notification Appliance—Alarm Horns

Older direct current alarm horns are usually of the vibrating diaphragm type. An armature associated with the
diaphragm makes and breaks a pair of contacts connected in series with the horn coil and alternately
energizes and de-energizes the coil. Generally, a capacitor is connected across the contacts to suppress
arcing. An adjusting screw controls the armature air gap and the sound level of the horn. Periodic inspection
will disclose contact wear or pitting that may require smoothing with a fine file and a contact burnishing tool.
When a screw and lock-nut adjustment is provided to vary the contact gap, it should be adjusted to the
specification of the horn manufacturer.
Newer horn-type notification appliances are manufactured with a solid state piezo element and require
virtually no maintenance other than the normal once a year activation.
Alternating current, vibrating-diaphragm alarm horns are similar to the direct current types, except they do not
require the contacts to alternately energize and de-energize the armature. The zero and peak voltage created
by an AC 60-hertz sine wave provides 120 beats per second. These horns do not have contacts, and have
been used in series-connected alarm NACs. Up to ten 12-volt horns or twenty 6-volt horns were used on a
120-volt circuit. Series balancing resistors are used to compensated for less than maximum devices. Note
that in new or renovated systems, series-connected NACs are no longer permitted by NFPA 72 because
these circuits cannot be monitored for short-circuit faults.
Electronic horns or sirens are either of the trumpet (re-entrant) type with a metal diaphragm, or the cone
speaker type. If a cone is torn or warped, the speaker should be replaced.
8.16 Notification Appliance—Alarm Bells

Direct current vibrating bells have contacts that alternately energize and de-energize their coils, thereby
causing a striker to contact a steel gong shell and produce vibrating bell sounds. Maintenance of contacts
and gap spacing are similar to that for horns. The distance between the gong striker and the steel gong shell
require infrequent attention. Normally, the bell movement is fastened to the base by two or four screws in
elongated holes, thereby permitting the striker to be adjusted closer or further away from the gong shell.
Like alternating current vibrating horns, alternating current vibrating bells usually have no contacts. They are,
however, designed to operate at 60 instead of 120 beats a second by using a permanent magnet or rectifier
to cut off one side of the sine wave. This reduced rate provides a cleaner bell sound. Similar to alternating
current series horns, alternating current bells in a series-connected NACs are no longer permitted.
Alternating and direct current single-stroke solenoid bells or chimes usually require less maintenance than
other audible signals. Terminal connections need to be checked every five or ten years. When that is done,

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any dust or dirt that has collected between the plunger and the plunger tube should be blown free with
compressed air or a bellows. These bells or chimes have no contacts and can be used in series-connected
circuits. AC series-connected bells or chimes typically used a balancing resistor to match the current of the
bell or chime. All chimes or bells on a circuit must be of the same current rating.
8.17 Strobe Notification Appliances

With the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), fire alarm systems must now be installed
with both audible and visible notification appliances. The visible appliances for ADA are typically strobe-type
units capable of providing several levels of light output. These strobe appliances can be mounted with the
audible appliance or as a separate unit. The strobe units, much like the horns, require little maintenance other
than the normal annual activation.
8.18 Trouble Bells and Buzzers

Trouble bells and buzzers may be of the alternating or direct current vibrating types, and maintenance is
exactly the same as for alarm horns and alarm bells.
8.19 Remote Switches on Systems

Fire drill, reset, signal silence, acknowledge, abort, dump, disconnect, test, hand off auto (HOA), and other
types of switches are generally of the conventional type. These switches require no maintenance except
replacement when they fail to function properly.

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Annex F
Wiring Diagrams and Guide for Testing Fire Alarm Circuits
This annex has been reprinted from NFPA 72 by permission of the National Fire Protection Association.
This annex is not a part of the requirements of this NFPA document but is included for informational
purposes only. Annex F provides guidance for testing of the various classes of circuits identified in
Chapter 12 of this edition of NFPA 72. Earlier editions of NFPA 72 have used different designations for
these circuits. Designations found in previous editions (located in Annex C of NFPA 72, 2007 edition or
earlier) can be compared with these corresponding diagrams.
F.1 Circuit class designations in this edition of the Code are Class A, B, C, D, E, R, S, and X. Definitions
can be found in Chapter 12. Additionally, special circuits unique to supervising stations are designated as
Types 4, 5, 6, and 7 and definitions can be found in Chapter 26. The wiring diagrams depicted in Figure
F.2.1.1 through Figure F.3.14(k) are representative of typical circuits encountered in the field and are not
intended to be all-inclusive. The noted symbols are as indicated in NFPA 170, Standard for Fire Safety
and Emergency Symbols. An individual point-identifying (addressable) fire alarm initiating device operates
on a signaling line circuit and is designated as a Class A, Class B, or Class X initiating device circuit.
All fire alarm circuits must test free of grounds because metallic conductors will cause failure of the circuit
when a second ground condition occurs on the same power source. Nonmetallic circuit paths, such as
wireless and fiber-optic may still be designated as Class A, B, or X if they meet the other performance
requirements of those pathways. Ground-fault detection is not required for all circuits that might be
interconnected with the fire alarm system. Therefore, tests for ground-fault detection should be limited to
those circuits equipped with ground-fault detection. The Class R designation is for a redundant circuit that
can use metallic conductors, but is not concerned with ground fault detection. Class S is a single path
supervised circuit that can use metallic conductors, but is not concerned with ground fault detection.
The following initiating device circuits are illustrative of either alarm or supervisory signaling. Alarm-
initiating devices and supervisory initiating devices are not permitted to have identical annunciation at the
fire alarm control unit. Directly connected system smoke detectors, commonly referred to as two-wire
detectors, should be listed as being electrically and functionally compatible with the fire alarm control
unit and the specific subunit or module to which they are connected. If the detectors and the units or
modules are not compatible, it is possible that, during an alarm condition, the detector’s visible indicator
will illuminate, but no change of state to the alarm condition will occur at the fire alarm control unit.
Incompatibility can also prevent proper system operation at extremes of operating voltage, temperature,
and other environmental conditions. Where two or more two-wire detectors with integral relays are
connected to a single initiating device circuit, and their relay contacts are used to control essential
building functions (e.g., fan shutdown, elevator recall), it should be clearly noted that the circuit might be
capable of supplying only enough energy to support one detector/relay combination in an alarm mode. If
control of more than one building function is required, each detector/relay combination used to control
separate functions should be connected to separate initiating device circuits, or they should be connected
to an initiating device circuit that provides adequate power to allow all the detectors connected to the
circuit to be in the alarm mode simultaneously. During acceptance and reacceptance testing, this feature
should always be tested and verified. A speaker is an alarm notification appliance, and, if used as shown
in the diagrams in Section F.2, the principle of operation and supervision is the same as for other audible
alarm notification appliances (e.g., bells and horns). The testing of supervised remote relays is to be
conducted in the same manner as for notification appliances.
F.2 Wiring Diagrams and Testing. When testing circuits, the correct wiring size, insulation type, and
conductor fill should be verified in accordance with the requirements of NFPA 70, National Electrical
Code.

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F.2.1 Testing Nonpowered, Hard-Wired Class A, B, or C Initiating Device Circuits. Disconnect

conductor at device or control unit, then reconnect. Temporarily connect a ground to either leg of
conductors, then remove ground. Both operations should indicate audible and visual trouble with
subsequent restoration at control unit.
F.2.1.1 Hard-Wired Alarm Initiating or Supervisory Initiating Devices. Hard-wired alarm initiating
devices (e.g., manual station or valve supervisory switch), by their intended function, initiate alarm upon a
conductor-to-conductor short. See Figure F.2.1.1.
Figure F.2.1.1 Hard-Wired Alarm Initiating or Supervisory Initiating Devices
F.2.2 Nonpowered Class A Circuits. Disconnect a conductor at a device at midpoint in the circuit.
Operate a device on either side of the device with the disconnected conductor. Reset fire alarm control
unit and reconnect conductor. Repeat test with a ground applied to either conductor in place of the
disconnected conductor. Both operations should indicate audible and visual trouble, then alarm or
supervisory indication with subsequent restoration.
F.2.3 Circuit-Powered (Two-Wire) Smoke Detectors for Class A or B Initiating Device Circuits.
Remove smoke detector where installed with plug-in base or disconnect conductor from fire alarm control
unit beyond first device. Activate smoke detector per manufacturer’s published instructions between fire
alarm control unit and circuit break. Restore detector or circuit, or both. Fire alarm control unit should
indicate trouble when fault occurs and alarm when detectors are activated between the break and the fire
alarm control unit. See Figure F.2.3.
Figure F.2.3 Circuit-Powered (Two-Wire) Smoke Detectors for Class A or B Initiating Device
Circuits.
F.2.4 Circuit-Powered (Two-Wire) Smoke Detectors for Class A Initiating Device Circuits.
Disconnect conductor at a smoke detector or remove where installed with a plug-in base at midpoint in
the circuit. Operate a device on either side of the device with the fault. Reset control unit and reconnect
conductor or detector. Repeat test with a ground applied to either conductor in place of the disconnected

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conductor or removed device. Both operations should indicate audible and visual trouble, then alarm
indication with subsequent restoration. See Figure F.2.4.
Figure F.2.4 Circuit-Powered (Two-Wire) Smoke Detectors for Class A Initiating Device Circuits.
F.2.5 Combination Alarm Initiating Device and Notification Appliance Circuits. Disconnect a
conductor either at indicating or initiating device. Activate initiating device between the fault and the fire
alarm control unit. Activate additional smoke detectors between the device first activated and the fire
alarm control unit. Restore circuit, initiating devices, and fire alarm control unit. Confirm that all notification
appliances on the circuit operate from the fire alarm control unit up to the fault and that all smoke
detectors tested and their associated ancillary functions, if any, operate. See Figure F.2.5.
Figure F.2.5 Combination Alarm Initiating Device and Notification Appliance Circuits
F.2.6 Combination Alarm Initiating Device and Notification Appliance Circuits Arranged for
Operation with Single Open or Ground Fault. Testing of the circuit is similar to that described in F.2.5.
Confirm that all notification appliances operate on either side of fault. See Figure F.2.6.
Figure F.2.6 Combination Alarm Initiating Device and Notification Appliance Circuits Arranged for
Operation with Single Open or Ground Fault.
F.2.7 Class A or B Circuits with Four-Wire Smoke Detectors and End-of-Line Power Supervision
Relay. Testing of the circuit is similar to that described in F.2.3 and F.2.4. Disconnect a leg of the power
supply circuit beyond the first device on the circuit. Activate initiating device between the fault and the fire
alarm control unit. Restore circuits, initiating devices, and fire alarm control unit. Audible and visual
trouble should indicate at the fire alarm control unit where either the initiating or power circuit is faulted.
All initiating devices between the circuit fault and the fire alarm control unit should activate. In addition,
removal of a smoke detector from a plug-in-type base can also break the power supply circuit. Where
circuits contain various powered and nonpowered devices on the same initiating circuit, verify that the
nonpowered devices beyond the power circuit fault can still initiate an alarm. A return loop should be
brought back to the last powered device and the power supervisory relay to incorporate into the end-of-
line device. See Figure F.2.7.

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Figure F.2.7 Class B Circuits with Four-Wire Smoke Detectors and End-of-Line Power Supervision
Relay.
F.2.8 Class B Initiating Device Circuits with Four-Wire Smoke Detectors That Include Integral
Individual Supervision Relays. Testing of the circuit is similar to that described in F.2.3 with the addition
of a power circuit. See Figure F.2.8.
Figure F.2.8 Class B Initiating Device Circuits with Four- Wire Smoke Detectors That Include
Integral Individual Supervision Relays.
F.2.9 Alarm Notification Appliances Connected Class B (Two- Wire) Circuits. Testing of the
notification appliances connected as Class B is similar to that described in F.2.3. See Figure F.2.9.
Figure F.2.9 Alarm Notification Appliances Connected to Class B (Two-Wire) Circuits.
F.2.10 Alarm Notification Appliances Connected to Class A (Four-Wire) Circuits. Testing of the
notification appliances connected as Class A is similar to that described in F.2.4. See Figure F2.10
Figure F.2.10 Alarm Notification Appliances Connected to Class A (Four-Wire) Circuits.
F.2.11 System with Supervised Audible Notification Appliance Circuit and Unsupervised Visible
Notification Appliance Circuit. Testing of the notification appliances connected to Class B is similar to
that described in F.2.4. See Figure F.2.11.

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Figure F.2.11 Supervised Audible Notification Appliance Circuit and Unsupervised Visible
Notification Appliance Circuit.
F.2.12 System with Supervised Audible and Visible Notification Appliance Circuits. Testing of the
notification appliances connected to Class B is similar to that described in F.2.4. See Figure F.2.12.
Figure F.2.12 Supervised Audible and Visible Notification Appliance Circuits.
F.2.13 Series Notification Appliance Circuit That No Longer Meets Requirements of NFPA 72. An
open fault in the circuit wiring should cause a trouble condition. See Figure F.2.13. Operational
Nonoperational Fire alarm control unit End-of-line device at last device End-of-line device at last device
Figure F.2.13 Series Notification Appliance Circuit.
F.2.14 Supervised Series Supervisory Initiating Circuit with Sprinkler Supervisory Valve Switches
Connected That No Longer Meets Requirements of NFPA 72. An open fault in the circuit wiring or
operation of the valve switch (or any supervisory signal device) should cause a trouble condition. The
classification of this circuit is now designated as Class D because the intended operation is performed.
When the circuit fails, the indication at the fire control unit is the same as if the supervisory switch were to
open. Fire alarm initiating devices, including supervisory inputs, are no longer allowed to annunciate as
trouble conditions. See Figure F.2.14.
Figure F.2.14 Supervised Series Supervisory Initiating Circuit with Sprinkler Supervisory Valve
Switches Connected.

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F.2.15 Initiating Device Circuit with Parallel Waterflow Alarm Switches and Series Supervisory
Valve Switch That No Longer Meets Requirements of NFPA 72. An open fault in the circuit wiring or
operation of the valve switch should cause a trouble signal. See Figure F.2.15.
Figure F.2.15 Initiating Device Circuit with Parallel Waterflow Alarm Switches and Series
Supervisory Valve Switch.
F.2.16 System Connected to Municipal Fire Alarm Master Box Circuit. Disconnect a leg of municipal
circuit at master box. Verify alarm sent to public communications center. Disconnect leg of auxiliary
circuit. Verify trouble condition on control unit. Restore circuits. Activate control unit and send alarm signal
to communications center. Verify control unit in trouble condition until master box reset. See Figure
F.2.16.
Figure F.2.16 System Connected to Municipal Fire Alarm Master Box Circuit.
F.2.17 Auxiliary Circuit Connected to Municipal Fire Alarm Master Box. For operation with a master
box, an open or ground fault (where ground detection is provided) on the circuit should result in a trouble
condition at the fire alarm control unit. A trouble signal at the fire alarm control unit should persist until the
master box is reset. For operation with a shunt trip master box, an open fault in the auxiliary circuit should
cause an alarm on the municipal system. See Figure F.2.17.
Figure F.2.17 Auxiliary Circuit Connected to Municipal Fire Alarm Master Box.
F.3 Circuit Classes. Some testing laboratories and authorities having jurisdiction permitted systems to
be classified as Class X by the application of two circuits operating in tandem. An example of this is to
take two series circuits, Class B, and operate them in tandem. The logic was that if a condition
occurs on one of the circuits, the other series circuit remained operative. To understand the principles of
the circuit, alarm receipt capability should be performed on a single circuit, and the Class type, based on
the performance, should be indicated on the record of completion.
F.3.1 Style 0.5. This signaling circuit operates as a series circuit in performance. This is identical to the
historical series audible signaling circuits. Any type of break or ground in one of the conductors, or the
internal of the multiple interface device, and the total circuit is rendered inoperative. To test and verify this
type of circuit, either a conductor should be lifted or an earth ground should be placed on a conductor or a
terminal point where the signaling circuit attaches to the multiplex interface device.
F.3.2 Style 0.5(a) (Class B) Series That No Longer Meets Requirements of NFPA 72. Style 0.5(a)
functions so that, when a box is operated, the supervisory contacts open, making the succeeding devices

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nonoperative while the operating box sends a coded signal. Any alarms occurring in any successive
devices will not be received at the receiving station during this period. See Figure F.3.2.
Figure F.3.2 Style 0.5(a) Series.
F.3.3 Style 0.5(b) Shunt That No Longer Meets Requirements of NFPA 72. The contact closures when
the device is operated (and remains closed) to shunt out the remainder of the system until the code is
complete. See Figure F.3.3.
Figure F.3.3 Style 0.5(b) Shunt.
F.3.4 Style 0.5(c) Positive Supervised Successive That No Longer Meets Requirements of NFPA
72. An open or ground fault on the circuit should cause a trouble condition at the control unit. See Figure
F.3.4.
Figure F.3.4 Style 0.5(c) Positive Supervised Successive.
F.3.5 Style 1.0 That No Longer Meets Requirements of NFPA 72. This is a series circuit identical to the
diagram for Style 0.5, except that the fire alarm system hardware has enhanced performance. [See
Figure F.3.5(a) and Figure F.3.5(b).] A single earth ground can be placed on a conductor or multiplex
interface device, and the circuit and hardware will still have alarm operability. If a conductor break or an
internal fault occurs in the pathway of the circuit conductors, the entire circuit becomes inoperative. To
verify alarm receipt capability and the resulting trouble signal, place an earth ground on one of the
conductors or at the point where the signaling circuit attaches to the multiplex interface device. One of the
transmitters or an initiating device should then be placed into alarm.

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Figure F.3.5(a) Style 1.0 (Class B).
Figure F.3.5(b) Typical Transmitter Layout.
F.3.6 Typical McCulloh Loop. This is the central station Mc-Culloh redundant-type circuit and has alarm
receipt capability on either side of a single break. See Figure F.3.6.
Figure F.3.6 Typical McCulloh Loop.
F.3.6.1 To test, lift one of the conductors and operate a transmitter or initiating device on each side of the
break. This activity should be repeated for each conductor.
F.3.6.2 Place an earth ground on a conductor and operate a single transmitter or initiating device to verify
alarm receipt capability and trouble condition for each conductor.
F.3.6.3 Repeat the instructions of F.3.6.1 and F.3.6.2 at the same time, verify alarm receipt capability,
and verify that a trouble condition results.
F.3.7 Class B (Formerly Style 3.0). This is a parallel circuit in which multiplex interface devices transmit
signal and operating power over the same conductors. (See Figure F.3.7.) The multiplex interface devices
might be operable up to the point of a single break. Verify by lifting a conductor and causing an alarm
condition on one of the units between the central alarm unit and the break. Either lift a conductor to verify
the trouble condition or place an earth ground on the conductors. Test for all the valuations shown on the
signaling table. On ground-fault testing, verify alarm receipt capability by actuating a multiplex interface
initiating device or a transmitter.

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Figure F.3.7 Class B (Formerly Style 3.0)
F.3.8 Style 3.5 That No Longer Meets Requirements of NFPA 72. Follow the instructions for Class B
(formerly Style 3.0) and verify the trouble conditions by either lifting a conductor or placing a ground on
the conductor. See Figure F.3.8.
Figure F.3.8 Style 3.5
F.3.9 Class B (Formerly Style 4.0). Follow the instructions for Class B (formerly Style 3.0) and include a
loss of carrier where the signal is being used. See Figure F.3.9.
Figure F.3.9 Class B (Formerly Style 4.0)
F.3.10 Style 4.5 That No Longer Meets Requirements of NFPA 72. Follow the instructions for Style
3.5. Verify alarm receipt capability while lifting a conductor by actuating a multiple interface device or
transmitter on each side of the break. See Figure F.3.10.

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Figure F.3.10 Style 4.5 (Class B).
F.3.11 Class A (Formerly Style 5.0). Verify the alarm receipt capability and trouble annunciation by
lifting a conductor and actuating a multiplex interfacing device or a transmitter on each side of the break.
F.3.11.1 Ground Test on Class A (Formerly Style 5.0) Circuit. For the earth ground verification, place
an earth ground and certify alarm receipt capability and trouble annunciation by actuating a single
multiplex interfacing device or a transmitter. See Figure F.3.11.
Figure F.3.11 Class A (Formerly Style 5.0).
F.3.12 Class A (Formerly Style 6.0). Follow the instructions from F.3.11. Verify the trouble annunciation
for the various combinations. See Figure F.3.12.
Figure F.3.12 Style 6.0 (Class A).
F.3.13 Class A with Circuit Isolators. For the portions of the circuits electrically located between the
monitoring points of circuit isolators, follow the instructions for a Class X circuit. It should be clearly noted
that the alarm receipt capability for remaining portions of the circuit protection isolators is not the
capability of the entire circuit but is permitted with enhanced system capabilities. See Figure F.3.13.

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Figure F.3.13 Class A with Circuit Isolators.
F.3.14 Class X (Formerly Style 7.0). Follow the instructions for testing of ClassA(formerly Style 6.0) for
alarm receipt capability and trouble annunciation. See Figure F.3.14(a) through Figure F.3.14(k).
NOTE: Some manufacturers of this type of equipment have isolators as part of the base assembly. Therefore, in the
field, this component might not be readily observable without the assistance of the manufacturer’s representative.
Operational Operational Fire alarm control unit Transponder
Figure F.3.14(a) Class X (Formerly Style 7.0)
Figure F.3.14(b) Low-Power Radio (Wireless) Fire Alarm System
Figure F.3.14(c) Two-Way RF Multiplex Systems.

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Figure F.3.14(d) One-Way Radio Alarm System.
Figure F.3.14(e) One-Way Radio Alarm System (Type 6 and Type 7).
Figure F.3.14(f) Style 4 Fiber Network.

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Figure F.3.14(g) Style 4 Fiber Network (Single Break).
Figure F.3.14(h) Style 4 Fiber Network (Double Break).

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Figure F.3.14(i) Style 7 Fiber Network (Two LANs).
Figure F.3.14(j) Style 7 Fiber Network (One LAN).

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Figure F.3.14(k) Style 7 Fiber Network.
F.4 Batteries. To maximize battery life, nickel-cadmium batteries should be charged as in Table F.4(a).
To maximize battery life, the battery voltage for lead-acid cells should be maintained within the limits
shown in Table F.4(b).
Table F.4(a) Voltage for Nickel-Cadmium Batteries

Float voltage 1.42 volts/cell + 0.01 volt
High-rate voltage 1.58 volts/cell + 0.07 volt - 0.00 volt
Note: High- and low-gravity voltages are (+) 0.07 volt and (-) 0.03 volt, respectively.
To maximize battery life, the battery voltage for lead-acid cells should be maintained within the limits
shown in Table F.4(b).
Table F.4(b) Voltage for Lead-Acid Batteries

Float High-Gravity Battery (Lead Calcium) Low-Gravity Battery (Lead Antimony)
Voltage
Maximum 2.25 volts/cell 2.17 volts/cell
Minimum 2.20 volts/cell 2.13 volts/cell
High-rate voltage — 2.33 volts/cell
The following procedure is recommended for checking the state of charge for nickel-cadmium batteries:
(1) The battery charger should be switched from float to high-rate mode.
(2) The current, as indicated on the charger ammeter, will immediately rise to the maximum
output of the charger, and the battery voltage, as shown on the charger voltmeter, will start to rise at the
same time.
(3) The actual value of the voltage rise is unimportant, because it depends on many variables.
The length of time it takes for the voltage to rise is the important factor.
(4) If, for example, the voltage rises rapidly in a few minutes, then holds steady at the new value,
the battery is fully charged. At the same time, the current will drop to slightly above its original value.
(5) In contrast, if the voltage rises slowly and the output current remains high, the high-rate
charge should be continued until the voltage remains constant. Such a condition is an indication that the
battery is not fully charged, and the float voltage should be increased slightly.

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Annex B
NFPA Tables for Test Methods and Visual Inspection and Test Frequencies
NFPA 72 test methods and the maximum time permitted between visual inspection and testing periods are
shown in Tables 14.3.1, and 14.4.3.2.
COPYRIGHT NOTICE
The following NFPA tables are reprinted here from NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code,
Copyright 2013, with the permission of the National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA
02269. This reprinted material is not the complete and official position of the National Fire
Protection Association on the referenced subject that is represented only by NFPA 72 in its
entirety.

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NFPA 72, Table 14.4.3.2 Test Methods

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NFPA 72, Table 14.3.1 Visual Inspection Frequencies

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NEMA Standards Publication SB 2-2016

Training Manual on Fire Alarm Systems

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Section 1 General ......................................................................................................................................... 1

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Section 3 Fire Alarm System Concepts ...................................................................................................... 37

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

5.3.3 Chimes .............................................................................................................................. 63

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

6.8.1 Non-Power-Limited Circuits and Conductors .................................................................... 74

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

8.4.1 General ............................................................................................................................. 88

Figure 2-1 Fire alarm voice control unit ...................................................................................................... 17

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Table 6-1 Operating periods required by NFPA standards......................................................................... 72

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Director, Technical Standards

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

This edition of the manual supersedes all prior versions.

Acoustical Society of America

International Code Council

National Electrical Manufacturers Association

National Fire Protection Association

1.3 General Definitions

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

alarm: A warning of danger.

alarm signal: See signal.

approved: Acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction.

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

i. projected beam–type detector: A type of photoelectric light obscuration smoke detector

k. smoke detector: A device that detects visible or invisible particles of combustion.

l. spark/ember detector: A radiant energy–sensing fire detector that is designed to detect

m. spot-type detector: A device in which the detecting element is concentrated at a particular

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

carrier: High-frequency energy that can be modulated by voice or signaling impulses.

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

certification of personnel: A formal program of related instruction and testing as provided by a

compatible (equipment): Equipment that interfaces mechanically or electrically together as

a. abnormal (off-normal) condition: A situation, environmental state or equipment state that

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

d. supervisory condition: An abnormal condition in connection with the supervision of other

e. trouble condition: An abnormal condition in a system due to a fault.

b. emergency communications control unit: A system capable of sending mass notification

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

emergency voice/alarm communications: Dedicated manual or automatic equipment for originating

evacuation: The withdrawal of occupants from a building.

NOTE: Evacuation does not include relocation of occupants within a building.

evacuation signal: Distinctive signal intended to be recognized by the occupants as requiring

false alarm: See unwanted alarm.

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

guard signal: A supervisory signal monitoring the performance of guard patrols.

intelligibility: The quality or condition of being intelligible.

intelligible: Capable of being understood; comprehensible; clear.

ionization smoke detection: See smoke detection.

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

multiplexing: A signaling method characterized by simultaneous or sequential transmission, or both,

municipal fire alarm system: A public emergency alarm reporting system.

network: A system of interconnected fire alarm components and/or associated circuits.

non-coded: An audible or visible signal conveying one discrete bit of information.

c. textual audible notification appliance: A notification appliance that conveys a stream of

© 2016 National Electrical Manufacturers Association