Intro To Basic Fire Alarm

Intro to Basic Fire Alarm
Technology
Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology.

Course Description
This introductory course is for individuals with little or no

experience in the fire alarm industry. The course covers
the basic building blocks of modern conventional and
addressable fire alarm systems.
It covers the primary and secondary functions of a fire

alarm control panel, various initiating and notification
devices, digital communicators, waterflow alarm and
sprinkler monitoring.
Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 2

Course Contents
Basic Elements of a Fire Alarm System

Supplementary Functions
Physical Elements of Fire
Initiating Devices
Notification Appliances
Water Flow and Sprinkler Monitoring
The Conventional Fire Alarm System
Notification Appliance Circuit (NACs)
Supplementary Circuit Wiring
The Addressable Fire Alarm System

Terminology
FACP - Fire Alarm Control Panel.

FACU - Fire Alarm Control Unit.
FCC - Federal Communications Commission
UL - Underwriters Laboratories
NFPA - National Fire Protection Agency.
AHJ, LAHJ - Authority Having Jurisdiction, Local AHJ
ADAAG - Americans with Disabilities Act Accessibility
Guidelines.
PoC - Products of Combustion
LED - Light Emitting Diode
IDC - Initiating Device Circuit
NAC - Notification Appliance Circuit
ELR, EOL - End of Line Resistor

Terminology
NEC - National Electrical Code (NFPA 70)

NEMA - National Electrical Manufacturing Association
EIA - Electronics Industry Association
Cd - Candela
dB, dBA - Decibels
FWR - Full Wave Rectified
ANSI - American National Standards Institute
PIV - Post Indicator Valve
OS&Y - Outside Stem and Yoke Valves
SFPE - Society for Fire Protection Engineers
Shall - Indicates a mandatory requirement
Should - Indicates a recommendation or advisement

What is the Purpose
of a Fire Alarm System?
Detect, Alert and Evacuate.

Life Safety!

Basic Fire
Let’s examine the

components that make
a basic Fire Alarm
Control System.

Main Controller
The brains of the system.
Provides power to the

system, monitors inputs
and controls outputs
through various circuits.
Performs other functions

as required by the
appropriate code.
NFS-640

Elements of a Control Panel
Main Controller, Power, Inputs, and Outputs

Primary (AC)
Secondary (DC)

Inputs
A fire alarm
Smoke Detector
system can have
a variety of input
devices.
Manual Pull Station

Inputs
Initiating Device A system component

that originates transmission of a change
of state condition, such as a smoke
detector, manual fire alarm box,
supervisory switch, etc....
Initiating Device Circuit (IDC) A circuit to which

automatic or manual initiating devices are connected
where the signal received does not identify the individual
device operated.

Outputs

Outputs
Notification Appliance A fire

alarm system component such as
a bell, horn, speaker, light, or text
display that provides audible, tactile,
or visible output, or any combination thereof.
Notification Appliance Circuit A circuit or path directly

connected to a notification appliance.

The Basic System
Main Controller
Inputs
Primary AC )
Secondary (DC) Outputs

Supplementary Operations
Elevator Capture
Equipment Shutdown
Air Handling Shutdown
Damper Control
Extinguishing System
Interface
Event Printing
Display Monitor
Interface
Door Holding Devices

Supplementary Operations
Remote Signal Annunciation - Provides critical

system status and basic control capability from a more
convenient location than where the control panel
might be located.

Remote Annunciators
ACS LED Custom Graphics

LCD-160 Liquid Crystal
Annunciator Annunciator
Display

DACTs
Integral Onboard DACT
UDACT Universal Digital
Communicator Transmitter
Dedicated DACT
"daughterboard"
411UD Slave/Stand
Alone DACT

Basic Fire Alarm Technology
Signal Initiation & Initiating Devices
What is the
threat?

The Makings of Fire

The Fire Triangle
Gasses - Natural, Propane,
Butane, Hydrogen,
Open Flame
Acetylene, Carbon Monoxide.
The Sun
Hot Surfaces
Liquids - Gasoline,
Sparks and Arcs
Kerosene, Turpentine,
He
el
Friction
Alcohol, Paints, Varnish,
Fu
Chemical Action
at
Lacquer
Electrical Energy
Compression of Gases
Solids - Coal, Wood,
Paper, Cloth, Wax,
Grease, Leather, Oxygen
Plastic, Grain, Hay
Fuel, heat and oxygen are all needed in the right combination to produce fire.

The Stages of a Fire
1) Incipient: Products of
Combustion particles are
produced (<0.3 microns).
No visible smoke or detectable
heat. May occur for milliseconds
or days.
Ionization Detectors

2) Smoldering: Visible
smoke particles are produced
(>0.3 microns). Little visible
flame or noticeable heat.
Photoelectric Detectors

3) Flame: Rapid combustion

produces radiant energy in the
visible, and invisible (IR, UV)
spectrums. Heat begins to
buildup at this stage
Spark or Flame Detectors

How do we detect
the threat?

Automatic Fire Detectors
Spot Detectors provide detection concentration in a

particular location - Heat & Smoke Detectors.
Line Detectors provide continuous detection along a

path - Thermal Cable & Beam Detectors.
Air Sampling Systems draw air through pipes to an

enclosed chamber for testing. - (VESDA & Duct
Detectors).

Automatic Fire Detectors
Photoelectric
Light-Scattering (Reflective)
Light-Obscuring (Beam)
Ionization
Thermal (heat)
Duct

Photoelectric Smoke Detectors
Light Scattering Type
These detectors use a Light-Emitting

Diode (LED) that sends a beam of
light into a dark chamber. A photo diode
sits on the other side of a partition
within the chamber.
Smoke particles entering the chamber deflect some of
the light rays into the photocell. The photo cell generates
a current when exposed to light, and if the current
reaches a certain level, the smoke detector alarms.

Light Scattering Principle
Sensing Chamber
Light Photo
Emitting Diode
Diode
Partition

Light Scattering Principle

Photoelectric Smoke Detectors
Light Obscuration Type
In a projected Beam Detector,

alarms are generated by diffusing
the projected light beam by a
specified percentage of obscuration.
Total beam blockage generally
results in a trouble signal.
Wire the receiver unit as a 4-wire detector (separate
power and sensing connections to the control panel).

Projected Beam Principle
Transmitter Receiver
Smoke from the

fire in the protected
area diffuses the
intensity of the beam at the receiver

Beam Detector
System Sensor is offering a new single-unit Transmitter/Receiver

Beam Detector that works in conjunction with a reflector.

Ionization Smoke Detectors
These detectors contain a small

amount of radioactive material
encapsulated in a metal chamber.
Ionizing radiation develops a low,
but steady electrical current. Smoke
particles entering the chamber disrupt
the current and trigger the detector's alarm.
Ion detectors react more quickly to fast flaming fires
that give off little smoke.
Spot-type Detectors.

Ionization Smoke Detectors

Ionization Smoke Detector

4 Wire Smoke Detectors
4-wire Smoke Detectors are devices that receive

power from a source other than the Initiating
Device Circuit.
They may be wired in
Style B or Style D, and
are supervised with an
end-of-line power
supervision relay for loss
of operating current.

4 Wire Smoke Detectors
4-wire smoke detectors wired Style B
IDC (+)
Initiating
Zone
IDC (-)
+24VDC
UL Listed
Power
4-Wire Supervisory
Detector Common
Relay
Power

Duct Detectors
Photoelectric detector
mounted in housing
outside the ductwork
that has probes that
extend into the duct to
sample the air inside the duct.
Primarily used as a smoke control device to
control the flow of air in ductwork.

Advanced Detection Devices
SMOKECHA MBERW047TOP.TIF
Photoelectric smoke detectors

by System Sensor consists of
2- and 4-wire detectors, offered
with or without a fixed 135° CPX751.tif
temperature thermal sensor.

Plug-In Head/Base combination.
Smoothing algorithms
Drift compensation (automatically adjusts
for dust accumulation, reducing nuisance alarms)
Optional Sensitivity Reader

Manual Initiating Devices
The Manual Fire Alarm Pull Station

Initiating Devices
Manual Fire Alarm Pull Station
Manually operated device used to initiate an alarm

signal.
Single Action Stations require a single operation to
activate it. Generally a pulling down action.
Dual Action Stations require two distinct operations.
A set-up and an activating action.
Breakglass Stations have an inhibit device that must
be damaged to activate the station (non-ADA
compliant).

Initiating Devices
Manual Fire Alarm Stations
Optional Features
With and without key locks or hex key locks
Weatherproof models with special backboxes
With auxiliary contacts
Multiple languages, even dual languages.
With a pre-signal feature
With screw-terminal or pigtail connections
Conventional and Addressable
Metal or Polycarbonate

Single-Action Manual Station
Spring-loaded
releasing
switch
Reset
Key
Actuation
Handle

Dual-Action Manual Station
Initial
Pre-Actuator
Actuator

Addressable Pull Stations
Addressable
Module

Non-Alarm Pull Stations

Heat Detectors
Heat detectors are the oldest type of automatic fire

detection device. Not considered direct Life Safety
devices, these detectors do contribute to the detection of
a fire.

Heat Detectors
Fixed Detectors alarm when the sensing element
reaches a certain set point. Two common ones have
135 and 200-degrees F range. The Fixed element is
generally a non-restorable type, and when activated,
must be replaced.
Rate-of-Rise Detectors respond when the rate of
temperature increase is greater than an allowable limit
(15 degrees in 60 secs.) (placement in a stable
environment) (e.g.. ovens, heating vents, etc.). The
Rate-of-Rise element is restorable when conditions
return to normal.
Rate Compensation will respond regardless of the
rate of temperature rise.

Heat Detectors
Rate Compensation Type

Detector responds when the temperature
of the surrounding air reaches a
predetermined level, regardless
of the rate of temperature rise.
The system compensates for Thermal Lag.
During a slow rate of temperature rise there is more time for heat
to penetrate the inner element, which inhibits contact closure until
the total device reaches the rated temperature level.
During fast rate of increase, there is less time for heat to
penetrate the inner element, which exerts less inhibiting effect, so
contact closure is still obtained at the rated temperature.

Heat Detectors
DON’T Paint Heat Detectors!!!
Why? Because “Thermal Lag” occurs when the physical

properties of the Heat detector cause it to lag behind the
alarm condition of the surrounding air.

Heat Detectors
Exhibit the lowest false alarm rate of all automatic fire

detector devices,
Slowest-responding fire detection devices.
Best used in applications where
Fast-developing, large fires are expected.
Environment won't allow the use of other fire detection
devices.
The speed of detection is not a prime consideration.

Heat Detector
Heat Sensitive Cable

A line-type initiating device whose sensing element
comprises, in one type, two current-carrying wires
held separated by heat-sensitive insulation which
softens at the rated temperature, thus allowing the
wires to make electrical contact.
Installed at the exact point of risk to provide rapid

localized detection of abnormal temperature rises
(overloaded or short-circuited high voltage power
wiring).

Heat Detectors
Heat Sensitive Cable

Protective Tape Actuators
Heat Sensitive
Outer Insulation Material

Notification Appliance Types
Audible - Horns, Bells, Sounders,

Sirens, Chimes, Speakers.
Visual - Strobes
Physical - Bed shakers
Olfactory - Smell

Audible Devices
Bells: Only used if they are

only for fire, or have a distinctive
sound from other bell signaling devices.
Often used as an external gong to
indicate the flow of water in the
sprinkler system.
Horns: Loud and distinctive output.

Often used in high-noise environments,
such as manufacturing plants.

Audible Devices
Sounders: Electronic or
mechanical audible devices,
which are capable of producing
a variety of tones. Often, the
tone is selectable during installation
of the device.
Chimes: Soft-toned appliances

used where loud noises could be
disruptive to other operations.
Generally used where qualified
personnel are continuously in attendance.

Audible Devices
Sirens: Extremely loud

devices generally limited
in use to outdoor or heavy
industrial areas.
Speakers: Audible devices

used in conjunction with
voice evacuation messages.
Life-Safety speakers are not
generally associated with Muzak
systems.

What other ways
can we evacuate
the facility?

Directional Sound
What is it?
Sound that generates at all
frequencies bands across the
human hearing range - Low, Mid and High
Together, all three frequency bands
produce true broadband/directional sound
True broadband is now
easily recognizable by
the human ear

New Audible Exit Technology
ONYX EXITPoint
Reduced Evacuation time
Directional Sound Technology
Optimized Sound Patterns
by combining 3 broadband
frequencies for true
broadband/directional sound
Triggered by Fire Alarm Panel
Draws attention to exits and egress routes
Won’t conflict with traditional audible devices

Audible Code
Coded outputs are required in many

applications. This can be accomplished
by pulsing tones for different areas of the
building, or zoning the outputs
(floor above - floor below).
General alarm codes commonly used are March

Time (110-120 ppm) or Temporal code (ANSI
Evacuation Code 3).

Visual Signaling Appliances
Visual signaling appliances

are used in high-noise environments,
in areas occupied by hearing-impaired
individuals, or in areas where audible
devices may not be desired.

Visual Devices
Speaker/Strobe
Strobe
Horn/Strobe
Chime/Strobe

Selectable-Output Visual Devices
Selectable Candela Output (15 - 30 - 60 -75 - 110)

Selectable Operating Voltage (12 or 24 volts)
Offered in Strobe and Horn/Strobe

combinations

Types of Power
For powering the various devices connected to a fire

alarm system, control panels supply auxiliary power.
There are two main types of power that you MUST be
aware of:
Full-Wave Rectified (Special Purpose) Power - Unregulated
output directly. High ripple voltage. Do not use for Smoke
Detectors! Only use NAC devices listed for use with this type of
power.
Filtered Regulated Power - Most stable output. Minimal ripple
voltage. Used for Smoke Detectors, and some remote
supplementary devices.

Full-Wave Rectified Power
42v
24v
0v

Filtered Regulated Power
24v
0v

Secondary Power
Direct Current - Clean, absolute filtered power

Supplies the system with operating power under the
loss of primary (AC) for at least 24 hours of standby
(quiescence) followed by 5 minutes in alarm. Voice
systems require 15 minutes in alarm.
Rated in AMP-HOURS (AH).
Must be calculated!

Relays and Contacts
Form A - refers to a relay with contacts for common and

normally open ONLY.
Form B - refers to a relay with contacts for common and
normally close ONLY.
Form C - refers to a relay with contacts for common,
normally open, and normally closed.
Dry Contacts -By magnetically controlling the state of
the contacts, the control panel is electrically isolated (and
thus protected) from power connected to the contacts..

Relays and Contacts
Normally Closed
Common Normally Open

When a relay is not
active, the contacts
are in their normal
position.

Relays and Contacts
Norma lly Closed
When the relay is Common Normally Open

activated, current
passing through the
relay coil magnetically
influences the common
"wiper", moving it to the
opposite position.

Relays and Contacts
"Fail-Safe" relays are Normally Open

energized during
Normally Closed
"normal" conditions. Common
The relay is activated
by deenergizing the
coil, guaranteeing
activation of the
desired signal during
loss of all power to the
system.

The Systems

Types of Fire Alarm Control Panels
Conventional (hard wired)

Fixed
Programmable
Addressable (multiplexed)
Intelligent (analog data transfer)

Conventional “hard wired” system
Simplest type of control unit.

Generally, a single circuit board contains power supply,
control, initiating and notification circuitry.
Some models use auxiliary circuit boards to perform
special functions.
Input/output devices connect to dedicated circuits.
Designated outputs occur when initiating signals are
received.
Limited special functions and capabilities.
Examples: SFP-1024 & SFP 2404

Conventional System Wiring

Conventional “Programmable” System
Basic “Designed System”

Components selected by the designer to meet the direct
needs of the customer.
Initiating circuits are programmable for fire, waterflow,
supervisory service, etc.
Output circuits are programmable for code selection and
silenceability.
On some systems, input-to-output CIRCUIT (not device)
mapping.
Example: System 500/5000

Addressable System
Each device (detector, pull station…)
has a unique number assigned
to it called the address for reporting
alarms and troubles.
Employs a Signaling Line Circuit
(SLC) Loop along which all addressable
input and output devices are connected
to the fire alarm control panel.
Addressable devices transmit an
electronic message back to the Control
Unit representing their state (Normal, Alarm, Trouble)
when polled by the Control Unit.

Addressable Modules
These systems can also monitor conventional initiating

devices using addressable monitor modules. These
modules report to the control panel on the alarm or
trouble status of the conventional circuits they monitor.
SLC Loop
24 VDC
Power

Typical SLC

Input to Output Mapping

Software Zoning
Floor-Above/Floor Below
Elevator Recall
Smoke Control
Ring-By-Zone
Door Locks (Card Access)
Cross Zoning

Intelligent System
Always an Addressable System.

Processes detailed, analog data from detectors
about smoke levels.
Can provide sensitivity data for each detector.
Employs Drift Compensation (self calibration) in
it's detectors.
Examples: ONYX NFS-640 & ONYX NFS-3030

Intelligent System Benefits
Lower wiring costs

Shortened installation schedule
Greater device supervision
Integrated Networkability
Superior troubleshooting capability
Rapid and direct identification
of fire threat

Design and Application

Design Issues
Device Selection
Photo vs. Ion, line versus spot.
What is are the total costs of one type versus another?
How does the environment affect device selection?
Does the device meet code specifications and code?
Placement of Devices (where do you place smoke
detectors, pull stations, notification appliances)?
Calculations (how do you calculate battery size and
NAC voltage drops?).
Programming (how will you accomplish your non-
general alarm events?).

Spot Detector Placement
Total (complete) Coverage includes all rooms, halls,

storage areas, basements attics, lofts, spaces above
suspended ceilings, and other subdivisions and
accessible spaces as well as the inside of all closets,
elevator shafts, enclosed stairways, dumbwaiter
shafts and chutes.
NFPA 72 2002 Section 5.5.2.1

Exception - inaccessible areas that DO NOT contain combustible
materials do not require smoke detection

Partial Coverage calls for smoke detection in all
common areas and work spaces, such as corridors,
lobbies, storage rooms, equipment rooms, and other
tenantless spaces.
CAUTION!
The building owner must understand that a fire alarm

system may not detect a fire that develops within any
area without smoke detection until that fire has
reached proportions that may seriously compromise
the safe evacuation of occupants and the timely
notification of fire responders.

Conditions Influencing Detector Response*
Air Altitude Humidity Temp. Color of

Detection
Velocity >3000 ft >93% <32O F Smoke
Protection
>300 fpm >100O F
Ion Can Can Can Can Does not

affect affect affect affect affect
Photo Does not Does not Can Can Can

Does not Does not Can Can Does not

Beam
Air Does not Does not Can Can Does not

Sampling affect affect affect affect affect
Per NFPA 72.

Conditions Influencing Detector Response*
Air Altitude Humidity Temp. Color of
Detection
Velocity >3000 ft >93% <32O F Smoke
Protection
>300 fpm >100O F
Ion Can Can Can Can Does not

Photo Does not Does not Can Can Can

Does not Does not Can Can Does not

Beam
Air Does not Does not Can Can Does not

Sampling affect affect affect affect affect
*Per NFPA 72.

On flat ceilings, spot detector coverage is defined

by an area of 30’ x 30’.
Detectors are not to exceed listed spacing and will
be installed within 1/2 listed spacing from all walls
and partitions that come within 18" of the ceiling.
On irregular shaped ceilings, detectors shall be
installed so all areas of the ceiling are within a 21
foot radius of a detector (0.7 x 30').
Can be installed on the bottom side of exposed
ceiling beams/upper floor joists.
Don't recess-mount smoke or heat detectors

Maximum
Spot detector radius of
Typical area
placement is protection
of room protection
based on central
mounting of a 21’
detector in a 30’ 30’
X 30’ room. No Smoke
Detector
area may be
’
more than 21’ 21
from the 30’
detector.

Room Maximum
Note that in this radius of
application, two protection
detectors are not Smoke
Detector
required because
41’
all areas within
the room are
within 21 feet of
21’
the detector.
10’

15’ 15’
30’
30’
15’ 15’

Heat Detector Spacing
Ceiling Height Percent (%) of

(feet) Listed Spacing
0 -10 100
10-12 91
12-14 84
14-16 77
16-18 71
18-20 64
20-22 58
22-24 52
24-26 46
26-28 40
28-30 34

120' / 30' = 4 Columns
120’
90' / 30' = 3 Rows
90’
12 Detectors

AREA 120' x 90' = 10,800 sq. ft. 10,800' / 900' = ...
12 Detectors
120’
90’

Estimating Detectors
400' x 175' = 70,00 sq. ft. / 900 = 78 detectors

30' x 120' Room or Corridor
15’ 15’
30’

10' x 120' Corridor

When one dimension falls below the 0.7 of
the listed spacing (21') employ the 21-foot
rule.
21’ 21’ 21’ 21’ 21’ 10’

Minimum detector
mounting distance.
Sidewall-mounted
detectors can be as
much as 12" from
the ceiling.

Sloped Ceilings
Sloped: Detectors are first spaced and located within 3’

of the peak, measured horizontally. Detector number and
spacing is based on the horizontal projection of the
ceiling.
Peaked: The same rules as sloped apply, but must be

used on both sides of the peak separately.

Sloped Ceilings
3 ft.

Peaked Ceilings
3 ft.

Initiating Devices
Manual Fire Alarm Pull Stations

Mounting Locations
Manual fire alarm stations shall be located within 5 feet of
the exit doorway opening of each floor.
Grouped openings over 40 feet in width require pull
stations on either side of the opening.
Additional pull station will be installed no more than 200
linear feet apart.
Each manual fire alarm station shall be conspicuous,
unobstructed, and accessible, and of a contrasting color
to the background on which they are mounted.

NFPA 72 - Mount pull station so that operable part is

42" to 54" from the floor.
ADA Accessibility Guidelines
Forward reach: If access is only from a
forward approach, mount 15-48”.
Side reach: If clear space allows a parallel
approach, mount 9-54”. If side reach is over
an obstruction, use forward reach rules.

The height is measured from the floor to the

point of actuation.
48 Inches

Designing with Notification appliances

ADA vs. NFPA
Conflicts exist between ADA

and NFPA guidelines regarding
requirements for notification
appliances in fire alarm systems.
If the specifications call for ADA

compliance, it is a federal law which
must be obeyed.
It is believed that newly-revised

ADA Accessibility Guidelines will
reference NFPA 72 2002.

Ambient Noise
Ambient Noise Level – the level of noise around us,

or encircling us. Often referred to as “background
noise”.
Decibels (dB)– Sound pressure is rated in decibels,

which is a unit for measuring relative loudness.
dBA - A dB scale referenced to the minimum

pressure that can be detected by the human ear.

Ambient Noise
1 dBA (faintest audible sound) – Remember

the hearing test?
50 dBA Typical conversation
80 dBA Alarm Clock
130 dBA (painful – ear damage possible).

Typical Ambient Noise Levels
Business Occupancies 55 dBA

Educational Occupancies 45 dBA
Industrial Occupancies 80 dBA
Institutional Occupancies 50 dBA
Mercantile Occupancies 40 dBA
Piers and Water-Surrounded Structures 40 dBA
Places of Assembly 55 dBA
Residential Occupancies 35 dBA
Storage Occupancies 30 dBA
Thoroughfares, High Density Urban 70 dBA
Thoroughfares, Medium Density Urban 55 dBA
Thoroughfares, Rural and Suburban 40 dBA
Tower Occupancies 35 dBA
Underground Structures and 40 dBA
Windowless Buildings
Vehicles and Vessels 50 dBA

Operating Modes
Public Mode – Audible or visible signaling to occupants

or inhabitants of the area protected by the fire alarm
system.
Private Mode – Audible or visible
signaling only to those persons
directly concerned with the
implementation and direction of
emergency
action initiation and procedure in the area protected by
the fire alarm system.

Audible Devices-Public Mode
NFPA: 15 dB above average ambient sound level or

5 dB above maximum 60-second sound level,
whichever is greater (minimum of 75 dBA to a
maximum of 120 dBA).
ADA: If provided, 15 dB above average ambient

sound level or 5 dB above maximum 60-second
sound level, whichever is greater (maximum of 120
dBA).

Audible Devices – Private Mode
NFPA: Minimum of 45 dBA, maximum of 120 dBA,

at least 10 dB above average ambient sound level or
5 dB above maximum 60-second sound level,
whichever is greater.

Rules, Guidelines and Tips
The Sound Pressure Level drops 6 dB each time

the distance from the source is doubled.
10 ft 20 ft 30 ft 40 ft
75 dBA 69 dBA 63 dBA

40’
Ambient Noise Level = 52 dBA
15 dB above = 67 dBA @ 10 ft
Lose 6 dB every double distance
Need to cover 40 feet (10-20-40)

67 dbA @ 40 ft
73 dbA @ 20 ft
79 dbA @ 10 ft

Ambient Noise Level = 52 dbA
40’
Each sounder needs to 67 dbA @ 20 ft

cover 20 feet (10-20) 73 dbA @ 10 ft

230’
40’
79 dB
150’

67 dbA @80 ft 73 dbA @40 ft 79 dbA @20 ft 85 dbA @10 ft
230’
80’
67 dB
150’ 80’
67 dB

Ambient Noise Level = 52 dbA
230’
@ 10 ft - 95 dbA
@ 20 ft - 89 dbA
150’ @ 40 ft - 83 dbA
@ 80 ft - 77 dbA
@ 160 ft - 71 dbA
@ 320 ft - 65 dbA

Visual Signaling Appliance
Above 105 dbA: When the average ambient sound

level is greater than 105 dbA, visual signaling
appliances are required.
Indoor concerts
Drop forge shops
Printing presses

Audible Devices – Public Mode
Where acceptable to the AHJ, reducing or shutting

down background noise is an acceptable alternative
to a high audio output.
Musical equipment
Machinery
Audible signaling may be

reduced or eliminated by
visual signaling (with AHJ approval).

Visual Signaling
ADA Requirements
Americans with Disabilities Act sets provisions for visual
appliances:
Intensity minimum of 75 cd in non-sleeping areas, and
110 cd in sleeping areas.
Lamp shall be a Xenon strobe type or equivalent.
The color shall be clear or nominal white.
Pulse duration 0.2 sec. with a 40%
duty cycle.
Flash Rate 1 - 3 per second (1-3 Hz).

Wall-Mounted Appliances
NFPA ADA
Wall mounted devices shall The appliance shall be placed
have their bottoms at heights 80 inches above the highest
above the finished floor of not floor level within the space, or
less than 80 inches, and not 6 inches from the ceiling,
greater than 96 inches. whichever is lower.
Devices shall be no more than
Maximum separation of 50 ft. apart.
appliances shall not exceed In large areas without
100 feet. obstructions 6 ft. above the
floor, devices may be spaced a
maximum of 100 feet apart.

Visual Device Installation
ADA 96" ADA 96"
At At
least least
6" 6"
80" 80"
NFPA At least 90" NFPA
At least 80" At least 80"
Strobe Horn/Strobe

Synchronization
Visual Synchronization reduces the effect on those who

are prone to suffer seizures from Epilepsy.
Required when two or more appliances are in the same
field of view.

Synchronization
Audible Synchronization permits

the proper sounding of evacuation
coding.
Synchronization is effected
via two means - a remote module
or circuitry built into the fire alarm
control panel.
Built-in control panel circuitry is
highly desirable.

Wall Mount Appliance Coverage
1 - 15 cd
1 - 15/75 cd
20' x 20’
1 - 34 cd
2 - 15 cd
30' x 30’
1 - 60 cd
2 - 30 cd
4 - 15 cd 40' x 40’
1 - 110 cd
2 - 60 cd
4 - 30 cd 50' x 50’

Dual-Candela Appliances
15/75 cd, 30-75 cd
15 cd
75 cd
40' x 15’

Room Spacing Visuals
50’
50’ x 50' = 2500 sq ft
50’
2500 sq ft x 0.0375
lumens/ sq ft
= 93.75 cd
93.75/4 = 23.44 cd

50’
50’ x 50' = 2500 sq ft
2500 sq ft x 0.0375
50’ lumens/ sq ft
= 93.75 cd
93.75/4 = 23.44 cd

50’
50’

Ceiling Mount Appliance Coverage
50’
25’ x 25’ 25’ x 25’
50’
25’ x 25’ 25’ x 25’

Ceiling Mount Coverage
1 - 95 cd @ 10 ft 1 - 115 cd @ 20 ft
1 - 60 cd @ 10 ft 1 - 80 cd @ 20 ft
1 - 30 cd @ 10 ft
1 - 15 cd @ 10 ft
1 - 30 cd @ 20 ft
1 - 60 cd @ 30 ft
20' x 20’
1 - 45 cd @ 20 ft
1 - 75 cd @ 30 ft 30' x 30’
1 - 115 cd @ 30 ft 40' x 40’
1 - 150 cd @ 30 ft 50' x 50’

Distributed NACs
Use of a remote power supply can save previous

voltage in the run from the control panel to the
start of a Notification Appliance Circuit.

Wiring Standards
NFPA 72 establishes standards of performance for

various wiring styles for Initiation Circuits, Notification
Appliance Circuits and Signaling Line Circuit (SLC) Loop
wiring.
For Initiating Device Circuits Styles B & D.
For Notification Appliance Circuits Styles Y & Z.
For SLC Loops Styles 4,6, & 7.

Style B / Style Y / Style 4
Class-B type circuits
2-wire circuit originates at the control unit, interconnects

all devices in parallel fashion and terminates with an End-
Of-Line Resistor (excluding Style 4 SLC loops)
A wire break results in a loss of all devices past the
break.
No branch tapping allowed (excluding Style 4 SLC loops)

Class B- Type Circuit
FACP

Style 4.0 SLC
BRANCH BRANCH BRANCH

A B C
BRANCH A
+ BRANCH B
+ BRANCH C
≤ manufacturer’s
recommendation
FACP
Resistance to the end of any
branch cannot exceed
manufacturers recommendation.

Style D / Style Z / Style 6
Class-A Type Circuits
Wiring originates at the control unit, interconnects all

devices in parallel fashion and returns to the control unit.
Return circuit monitors line voltage. If voltage missing,
return line will feed current to devices from its
connections.
No branch tapping allowed.

Class A Type Circuit
FACP

Quick-Reference Chart
Style
Class IDC NAC SLC
Class B B Y 4
Class A D Z 6, 7

References
NFPA 70 - National Electrical Code

NFPA 72 - National Fire Alarm Code
NFPA 101 - Life Safety Code
National Electrical Code Handbook, NFPA
Life Safety Code Handbook, NFPA
Fire Protection Handbook, NFPA
Fire Alarm Signaling Systems, NFPA

Additional References
Guide for Proper Use of System Smoke Detectors,

System Sensor.
Guide for Proper Use of Smoke Detectors in Duct

Applications, System Sensor.
Guide for Proper Use of Projected Beam Smoke

Detectors, System Sensor.
Strobe Compliance Reference Guide, System Sensor.

New Fire Fighters Technology
How can we find

the fire?
TM
ONYX FirstVision

New/Innovative Applications
For Voice Evacuation

ONYX FirstVision TM
Revolutionary wayfinding navigation tool

for firefighters and other emergency
responders
A touch screen PC, displays critical

information on the origin and spread of a
fire; allowing firefighters to quickly locate
and extinguish the fire.
Wayfinding Technology
Where you are
Best route to destination
Recognizing the destination
Finding your way back

ONYX FirstVision TM
What
Touch screen PC
Navigation tool during emergency
events
Graphically displays active fire alarm
devices and potential hazards
Why
Speeds Scene Size-Up
Quickly identify fire origin and
spread
To make emergency operations
safer and more effective

ONYX FirstVision Screen –HazMat Detail

ONYX FirstVision Screen- Alarm List

ONYX FirstVision Screen – Site Plan
TM

Mass Notification Locally/Globally
NOTIFY IP
Generates live, direct global
voice instructions via the
internet & PC
Paging Sites & Zones created
by Network/Network Control
Station (NCS)
Single Operation/Message confirmation
Continuously monitored & encrypted for message
security

Addressable/Intelligent Systems Networks
Client-Server technology an upward migration

Ethernet, Uniguard, Unibadge, Unilogic (Boolean)
UniTour, IRM/IM and CCTV control
Centralized Databases
Local and Wide Area Networks
(LAN/WAN)
Graphics for Fire/Life Safety

Integrated fire/security network

QUESTIONS?

Thank You for Attending!
Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology.

Intro To Basic Fire Alarm

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Intro to Basic Fire Alarm

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology.

 This introductory course is for individuals with little or no

 It covers the primary and secondary functions of a fire

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 2

 Basic Elements of a Fire Alarm System

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 3

 FACP - Fire Alarm Control Panel.

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 4

 NEC - National Electrical Code (NFPA 70)

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 5

Detect, Alert and Evacuate.

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 6

Let’s examine the

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 7

 The brains of the system.

 Provides power to the

 Performs other functions

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 8

Main Controller, Power, Inputs, and Outputs

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 9

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 10

Manual Pull Station

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 11

 Initiating Device A system component

 Initiating Device Circuit (IDC) A circuit to which

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 12

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 13

 Notification Appliance A fire

 Notification Appliance Circuit A circuit or path directly

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 14

Secondary (DC) Outputs

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 15

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 16

 Remote Signal Annunciation - Provides critical

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 17

ACS LED Custom Graphics

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 18

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 19

Signal Initiation & Initiating Devices

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 20

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 21

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 22

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 23

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 24

3) Flame: Rapid combustion

Spark or Flame Detectors

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 25

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 26

Spot Detectors provide detection concentration in a

Line Detectors provide continuous detection along a

Air Sampling Systems draw air through pipes to an

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 27

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 28

Light Scattering Type

 These detectors use a Light-Emitting

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 29

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 30

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 31

Light Obscuration Type

 In a projected Beam Detector,

Leaders in Life. Safety. Technology. 32

Smoke from the

This introductory course is for individuals with little or no

It covers the primary and secondary functions of a fire

Basic Elements of a Fire Alarm System

FACP - Fire Alarm Control Panel.

NEC - National Electrical Code (NFPA 70)

The brains of the system.

Provides power to the

Performs other functions

Initiating Device A system component

Initiating Device Circuit (IDC) A circuit to which

Notification Appliance A fire

Notification Appliance Circuit A circuit or path directly

Remote Signal Annunciation - Provides critical

Spot Detectors provide detection concentration in a

Line Detectors provide continuous detection along a

Air Sampling Systems draw air through pipes to an

These detectors use a Light-Emitting

In a projected Beam Detector,

System Sensor is offering a new single-unit Transmitter/Receiver

These detectors contain a small

4-wire Smoke Detectors are devices that receive

Photoelectric smoke detectors

Manually operated device used to initiate an alarm

DON’T Paint Heat Detectors!!!

Why? Because “Thermal Lag” occurs when the physical

Exhibit the lowest false alarm rate of all automatic fire

Environment won't allow the use of other fire detection

Installed at the exact point of risk to provide rapid

Audible - Horns, Bells, Sounders,

Physical - Bed shakers

Bells: Only used if they are

Horns: Loud and distinctive output.

Chimes: Soft-toned appliances

Sirens: Extremely loud

Speakers: Audible devices

Coded outputs are required in many

General alarm codes commonly used are March

Selectable Candela Output (15 - 30 - 60 -75 - 110)

Offered in Strobe and Horn/Strobe

For powering the various devices connected to a fire

Direct Current - Clean, absolute filtered power