Fire Detection and Alarm System

Basics

Presented by
Waruna Amarasinghe
Fire Detection and Alarm Systems
A key aspect of fire protection is to identify a developing fire emergency in a
timely manner, and to alert the building's occupants and fire emergency
organizations.

This is the role of fire detection and alarm systems. Depending on the
anticipated fire scenario, building and use type, number and type of
occupants and criticality of contents and mission, these systems can provide
several main functions:

First, they provide a means to identify a developing fire through either manual
or automatic methods.

Second, they alert building occupants to a fire condition and the need to
evacuate.

Another common function is the transmission of an alarm notification signal

to the fire department or other emergency response organization.

They may also shut down electrical, air handling equipment or special
process operations, and they may be used to initiate automatic suppression
systems.
Fire Detection Principles
Manual Fire Detection - Pull Stations
Manual fire detection is the oldest method of detection. In the
simplest form, a person yelling can provide fire warning. In
buildings, however, a person's voice may not always transmit
throughout the structure. For this reason, manual alarm stations
are installed. The general design philosophy is to place stations
within reach along paths of escape. It is for this reason that they
can usually be found near exit doors in corridors and large
rooms.

The advantage of manual alarm stations is that, upon

discovering the fire, they provide occupants with a readily
identifiable means to activate the building fire alarm system. The
alarm system can then serve in lieu of the shouting person's
voice. They are simple devices, and can be highly reliable when
the building is occupied. The key disadvantage of manual
stations is that they will not work when the building is
unoccupied. They may also be used for malicious alarm
activations. Nonetheless, they are an important component in
any fire alarm system.
2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.63.3 Manual Fire Alarm Box. A manually operated device used
to initiate an alarm signal.
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Spot type

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.43.21 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.
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Photoelectric

Hochiki SLR-24V detector

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.181.4 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 inter 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.
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Photoelectric

In the normal case, the light from the light source on the left shoots straight
across and misses the sensor.

When smoke enters the chamber, however, the smoke particles scatter the
light and some amount of light hits the sensor.

A – Light Source
B – Photo Sensor
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Ionization
Ionization smoke detectors use an ionization chamber and a source of ionizing radiation
to detect smoke. This type of smoke detector is more common because it is inexpensive
and better at detecting the smaller amounts of smoke produced by flaming fires.
Inside the ionization detector is a small amount (perhaps 1/5000th of a gram) of Americium-
241. The radioactive element americium has a half-life of 432 years, and is a good source of
alpha particles.
An ionization chamber is very simple. It consists of two plates with a voltage across them,
along with a radioactive source of ionizing radiation.

Hochiki SIJ-24 detector

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.181.2 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.
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Ionization
Ionization Smoke detectors

The alpha particles generated by the americium have the following property: They ionize the
oxygen and nitrogen atoms of the air in the chamber. To "ionize" means to "knock an electron off
of." When you knock an electron off of an atom, you end up with a free electron (with a negative
charge) and an atom missing one electron (with a positive charge). The negative electron is
attracted to the plate with a positive voltage, and the positive atom is attracted to the plate with a
negative voltage (opposites attract, just like with magnets). The electronics in the smoke detector
sense the small amount of electrical current that these electrons and ions moving toward the
plates represent.

When smoke enters the ionization chamber, it disrupts this current -- the smoke particles
attach to the ions and neutralize them. The smoke detector senses the drop in current between
the plates and sets off the horn.
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Heat/Thermal
Heat detectors are the oldest type of automatic fire detection device. They began
development of automatic sprinklers in the 1860s and have continued to the present
with proliferation of various types of devices.

Heat detectors that only initiate an alarm and have no extinguishing function are still in use.
Although they have the lowest false alarm rate of all automatic fire detector devices, they
also are the slowest in fire detecting. A heat detector is best situated for fire detection in a
small confined space where rapidly building high-output fires are expected, in areas where
ambient conditions would not allow the use of other fire detection devices, or when speed
of detection is not a prime consideration.

Heat detectors are generally located on or near the ceiling and respond to the convected
thermal energy of a fire. They respond either when the detecting element reaches a
predetermined fixed temperature or to a specified rate of temperature change. In general,
heat detectors are designed to operate when heat causes a prescribed change in a
physical or electrical property of a material or gas.

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.43.9 Heat Detector. A fire detector that detects either abnormally
high temperature, or rate of temperature rise, or both.

Heat detectors can be sub-divided by their operating principles :

 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Fixed Temp.
Fixed-temperature heat detectors are designed to alarm when the
temperature of the operating elements reaches a specific point. The air
temperature at the time of alarm is usually considerably higher than the rated
temperature because it takes time for the air to raise the temperature of the
operating element to its set point. This condition is called thermal lag. Fixed-
temperature heat detectors are available to cover a wide range of operating
temperatures - from about 135'F (57'C) and higher. Higher temperatures
detectors are also necessary so that detection can be provided in areas
normally subject to high ambient temperatures, or in areas zoned so that only
detectors in the immediate fire area operate.

Hochiki DFE Series Heat Detector

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.43.7 Fixed-Temperature Detector. A device that responds when
its operating element becomes heated to a predetermined level.
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Rate-of-Rise
One effect that flaming fire has on the surrounding area is to rapidly increase
air temperature in the space above the fire. Fixed-temperature heat detectors
will not initiate an alarm until the air temperature near the ceiling exceeds the
design operating point. The rate-of-rise detector, however, will function when
the rate of temperature increase exceeds a predetermined value, typically
around 12 to 15'F (7 to 8'C) per minute. Rate-of-rise detectors are designed
to compensate for the normal changes in ambient temperature that are
expected under non-fire conditions.

Hochiki DSC-EA Heat Detector

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.43.18 Rate-of-Rise Detector. A device that responds when the
temperature rises at a rate exceeding a predetermined value
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Combination
Combination detectors contain more than one element which responds to fire. These detectors
may be designed to respond from either element, or from the combined partial or complete
response of both elements. An example of the former is a heat detector that operates on both
the rate-of-raise and fixed-temperature principles. Its advantage is that the rate-of-rise element
will respond quickly to rapidly developing fire, while the fixed-temperature element will respond
to a slowly developing fire when the detecting element reaches its set point temperature. The
most common combination detector uses a vented air chamber and a flexible diaphragm for the
rate-of-rise function, while the fixed-temperature element is usually leaf-spring restrained by a
eutectic metal. When the fixed-temperature element reaches its designated operating
temperature, the eutectic metal fuses and releases the spring, which closes the contact.

Hochiki Hochiki DCD Series

Photoelectric/Heat Fixed Temp/Rate of
Smoke Detector Rise Heat Detector

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.43.4 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 of rate-of-rise and fixed temperature heat detector. This device has listings for each
sensing method employed.
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Flame
A flame detector responds either to radiant energy visible to the human eye (approx.
4000 to 7700 A) or outside the range of human vision. Similar to the human eye, flame
detectors have a 'cone of vision', or viewing angle, that defines the effective detection
capability of the detector.
With this constraint, the sensitivity increases as the angle of incidence decreases.
Such a detector is sensitive to glowing embers, coals, or flames which radiate energy
of sufficient intensity and spectral quality to actuate the alarm. Each type of fuel, when
burning, produces a flame with specific radiation characteristics. A flame detection
system must be chosen for the type of fire that is probable. For example an ultraviolet
(UV) detector will respond to a hydrogen fire, but an infrared (IR) detector operating in
the 4.4 micron sensitivity range will not. It is imperative therefore; that a qualified fire
protection engineer is involved in the design of these systems, along with assistance
from the manufacturer's design staff.

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.43.8 Flame Detector. A radiant energy-sensing detector that
detects the radiant energy emitted by a flame.

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.43.16 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.
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Flame
Due to their fast detection capabilities, flame detectors are
generally used only in high-hazard areas, such as fuel-loading
platforms, industrial process areas, hyperbaric chambers, high-
ceiling areas, and atmospheres in which explosions or very rapid
fires may occur. Because flame detectors must be able to 'see' the
fire, they must not be blocked by objects placed in front of them.
The infrared-type detector, however, has some capability for
detecting radiation reflected from walls.

Hochiki HF-24 Flame Detector

 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Linear Type

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.43.10 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.

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.43.15 Projected Beam-Type Detector. A type of photoelectric light
obscuration smoke detector wherein the beam spans the protected area.

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.181.3 Photoelectric Light Obscuration Detection. The principle
of using a light source and a photosensitive sensor onto which the principal portion of
the source emission is focused. When smoke particles enter the light path, some of the
light is scattered and some of the light 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.
 Fire Detection Principles
Automatic Detectors – Air Sampling

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.43.1 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 draws air form the
protected area back to the detector through air sampling ports, piping, or
tubing. At the detector, the air is analyzed for fire products.
 Building Notification
Notification Appliances

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.113 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.

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.113.1 Audible Notification Appliance. A notification

appliance that alerts by the sense of hearing.

2007 NFPA 72, 3.3.113.3 Visible Notification Appliance. A notification

appliance that alerts by the sense of sight.
 Fire Alarm Circuit Classes
2007 NFPA 72, 6.4.2.1 Class. Initiating device circuits, notification appliance
circuits, and signaling line circuits shall be permitted to be designated as either
Class A or Class B, depending on their performance during nonsimultaneous
single circuit fault conditions as specified by the following:

(1) Initiating device circuits and signaling line circuits that transmit an alarm or
supervisory signal, or notification appliance circuits that allow all connected
devices to operate during a single open or a nonsimultaneous single ground
fault on any circuit conductor, shall be designated as Class A

(2) Initiating device circuits and signaling line circuits that do not transmit an
alarm or supervisory signal, or notification appliance circuits that do not
allow all connected devices to operate beyond the location of a single
open on any circuit conductor, shall be designated as Class B

2007 NFPA 72, 6.4.2.2. An open or ground fault condition shall result in the
annunciation of a trouble signal at the protected premise within 200 seconds as
required in 4.4.7
 Class B Circuits

Class B Initiating Device Circuit

4.7K
EOLR

Class B Notification Appliance Circuit

4.7K
EOLR

End of line supervision resistors

are required to supervise the
integrity of the loop.
 Class B Circuits

Class B Initiating Device Circuit

4.7K
EOLR

4.7K
EOLR

Class B Notification Appliance Circuit

Single open circuit condition causes a

trouble on the panel and renders all
devices beyond the fault inoperative.
 Class A Circuits

Class A Initiating Device Circuit

Class A Notification Appliance Circuit

End of line supervision resistors are not

necessary as the loop returns to the
panel and is driven from both ends.
 Class A Circuits

Class A Initiating Device Circuit

Class A Notification Appliance Circuit

Single open circuit condition causes a

trouble on the panel. All devices on the
loop remain operative.
 Additional Fire Alarm Terminology
Addressable Device - A fire alarm system component with
discreet identification that can have its status individually
identified or that is used to individually control other functions.
Analog Addressable Sensor - An initiating device that transmits a
signal indicating varying degrees of condition as contrasted with a
conventional or addressable initiating device, which can only
indicate an off/on condition.
Signaling Line Circuit (SLC) - A circuit or path between any
combination of circuit interfaces, control units, or transmitters
over which multiple system input signals or out put signals or
both are carried.
SLC 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.
Protocol - A language for communicating between control panels
and their proprietary devices.
 Comparing System Types
To better understand today’s newer technology, a firm understanding of the types of systems
available is necessary. The three most popular types of systems installed today are:

• Conventional
• Addressable
• Analog Addressable

Conventional Systems
 Conventional control panels range in size from 1 zone
to over 100 zones.
 Zones typically consist of some or all of the initiating
devices in an area or floor of a building.
 Some control panels zone capacity is expandable
while others are not, limiting its usefulness if a facility
adds additional buildings or rooms.
Conventional Systems
Zone 1
4.7K
EOLR
Zone 2
FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE FIRE

FACP SILENT KNIGHT SILENT KNIGHT SILENT KNIGHT SILENT KNIGHT SILENT KNIGHT

NAC 1 4.7K
EOLR

Multiple devices are combined

into a single zone. Zones can
contain 30 or more devices.
Conventional Systems
Zone 1
4.7K
EOLR
Zone 2
FIRE FIRE

SILENT KNIGHT

NAC 1 4.7K
EOLR

Care must be taken when laying

out zones to comply with code
requirements.
 Zone Considerations
 2007 NFPA 72 6.8.5.5.2 Limits the number of waterflow
switches in a single zone to 5.

 2007 NFPA 72 6.8.5.6.2 Limits the number of supervisory

devices in a single zone to 20.

 2007 NFPA 72 Annex A.4.4.6.6 Suggests that the

maximum number of square feet in a single zone be
limited to no more than 22,500.
Conventional Systems
Zone #1
4.7K
EOLR
Zone #2

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Wiring must be installed in a

supervised manner either Class A,
or Class B with an EOLR.
Conventional Systems
Zone #1
4.7K
EOLR
Zone #2

FIRE!

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Alarm conditions are annunciated

by zone only. Inspection is
required to determine the device.
Conventional Systems
Zone #1
4.7K
EOLR
Zone #2

NAC #1
4.7K
4.7K
EOLR
EOLR

Trouble conditions are annunciated

by zone only. Inspection is required
to determine the cause.
Conventional Systems
Zone #1
4.7K
EOLR
Zone #2

RJ RJ

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Information transmitted to the central

station is by zone at best. Many
panels send Alarm, Supv, Trbl only.
Addressable Systems

 An addressable systems point capacity is

determined by the amount of SLC “Signaling
Line Circuits” it contains.
 Each SLC circuit provides power,
FACP
communication, & supervision for all of the
devices connected to it.
 Each SLC can accommodate over 100
addressable devices, depending upon the
manufacturer.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

SILENT KNIGHT

FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Each SLC loop can contain a variety of

addressable devices. Non-addressable devices
are connected via addressable module.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Each point on the SLC loop is given

a unique address when installed.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Supervision is accomplished from

the panel by polling the devices on
< Replay the SLC loop.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
003
(Fan Shutdown) FIRE!
NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

ALARM POINT 006 Alarm conditions are annunciated

LOBBY SMOKE DETECTOR by point allowing responding
personnel to quickly find the fire.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT

006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

TRBL POINT 006 Trouble conditions can be located

DISCONNECTED
LOBBY SMOKE DETECTOR more quickly by analyzing the
affected points.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003
RJ RJ

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

More detailed information can be

sent to the central station aiding in
a quick resolution to the problem.
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown) 003

NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Since supervision is accomplished

through polling, t-tapped wiring is
permitted. (Class B wiring)
Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005
FACP Addressable
Relay Module
003
(Fan Shutdown) FIRE!
NAC #1
4.7K
EOLR

Many systems support flexible

input/output programming to link
initiating devices to outputs.
Comparison

 Conventional  Addressable
 Lower initial equipment  Easier to install.
costs.  More system status
 Wide range of information at the panel
compatible devices. and central station.
 Can be easier to  Input/Output
program. programming much more
 Limited expansion flexible.
capability.  Usually much more room
available to expand.
Analog Addressable Systems

 Detectors in an analog addressable systems

become “sensors” relaying information to the
control panel corresponding to how much
smoke or heat that detector is sensing.
 The control panel makes the decisions based
on this information when to alarm etc.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

HEAT DETECTOR Supervision is still checked by

MECHANICAL ROOM polling. In addition an analog
POINT 001 A=062 value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=190 panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

SMOKE DETECTOR Supervision is still checked by

LOBBY NORTH polling. In addition an analog
POINT 002 A=060 value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=188 panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

RELAY MODULE Supervision is still checked by

FAN SHUTDOWN polling. In addition an analog
POINT 003 A=N/A value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=N/A panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

INPUT MODULE Supervision is still checked by

WATERFLOW polling. In addition an analog
POINT 004 A=N/A value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=N/A panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

INPUT MODULE Supervision is still checked by

MANUAL PULL polling. In addition an analog
POINT 005 A=N/A value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=N/A panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

SMOKE DETECTOR Supervision is still checked by

FRONT DESK polling. In addition an analog
POINT 006 A=061 value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=189 panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

HEAT DETECTOR Supervision is still checked by

MECHANICAL ROOM polling. In addition an analog
POINT 001 A=062 value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=190 panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

SMOKE DETECTOR Supervision is still checked by

LOBBY NORTH polling. In addition an analog
POINT 002 A=060 value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=188 panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

RELAY MODULE Supervision is still checked by

FAN SHUTDOWN polling. In addition an analog
POINT 003 A=N/A value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=N/A panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

INPUT MODULE Supervision is still checked by

WATERFLOW polling. In addition an analog
POINT 004 A=N/A value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=N/A panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

INPUT MODULE Supervision is still checked by

MANUAL PULL polling. In addition an analog
POINT 005 A=N/A value is transmitted to the
NORMAL F=N/A panel for processing.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1

SMOKE DETECTOR
FRONT DESK
POINT 006 A=061 < Replay
NORMAL F=189
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1
HEAT DETECTOR This analog value corresponds
MECHANICAL ROOM to the amount of heat or
POINT 001 A=062 smoke in that detectors area
NORMAL F=190 of coverage. Higher = more.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1
HEAT DETECTOR If the analog value exceeds
MECHANICAL ROOM the alarm threshold, an alarm
POINT 001 A=062 occurs. This alarm threshold is
NORMAL F=190 calculated by the panel.
Analog Addressable Systems
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005
Addressable
Relay Module 003
(Fan Shutdown)

10K
EOLR
NAC #1
INPUT MODULE Input/output modules do not
WATERFLOW relay analog values to the
POINT 004 A=N/A panel as they are monitoring
NORMAL F=N/A or controlling on/off devices.
 Analog Addressable
Features
 An analog addressable control panel is capable of
several enhanced features not available on conventional,
and some addressable systems.
 Drift Compensation / Maintenance Alert
 Adjustable Detector Sensitivity
 Day/Night Detector Sensitivity Adjustment
 U.L. Calibrated Sensitivity Test Instrument
Drift Compensation

 Drift compensation is the process by which an analog

addressable control panel automatically adjusts an
analog detectors alarm threshold to compensate for
contaminants such as dust.
 This ensures the detector maintains a consistent
sensitivity level, helping to avoid false alarms due to
dirty detectors.
Maintenance Alert
 Drift compensation occurs until it is nearing a point where
it can no longer compensate and remain within U.L.
requirements. This point is called “Maintenance Alert”
 Some systems handle a maintenance alert condition as a
trouble while others flag the condition only, and continue
to operate normally.
Calibration Trouble

 A detector in a maintenance alert condition will eventually

go into calibration trouble if not serviced.
 A detector in calibration trouble is not functioning
correctly and requires service immediately.
 Adjustable (Day/Night)
Sensitivity

 In order to allow for varying environmental conditions or

to provide quicker detection, analog systems typically
allow you to change the sensitivity of a detector within a
range of U.L. tolerances.

 This is typically made user friendly by giving the installer

choices such as high-medium-low.
 Adjustable (Day/Night)
Sensitivity

 By changing a detectors sensitivity you are instructing the

panel to adjust its alarm threshold (analog) value up or
down accordingly.

 Some systems allow this sensitivity adjustment to happen

automatically on a day/night schedule.
U.L. Calibrated Sensitivity Test

 1996 NFPA 72 7-3.2.1

Detector sensitivity shall be tested within 1 year after installation and
every alternate year thereafter. After the second required calibration test,
where sensitivity tests indicate that the detector has remained within its
listed and marked sensitivity range, the length of time shall be permitted
to be extended to a maximum of 5 years. …
 Testing Methods
 A calibrated test method; or
 Manufacturers calibrated sensitivity test instrument; or
 Listed control equipment arranged for the purpose; or
 Smoke detector/control unit arrangement whereby the detector
causes a signal at the control unit where its sensitivity is
outside the acceptable range; or
 Other approved calibrated method acceptable to AHJ
 U.L. Calibrated Sensitivity Test

 Analog addressable control panels are UL listed for the

purpose of performing the calibrated sensitivity testing
internally.

 A printout from the panel is usually available to provide

evidence to the AHJ that the test was performed.
 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values
255
240

210
Range (.5% - 4% per foot obscuration)
180 that U.L. requires, to be listed as a
150 smoke detector.
120

90

60

30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values
255
240

210
On the other side of the graph, the range
180 of analog values for the detector is
150 plotted. In this case the range is 0-255.
120

90

60

30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values
During power-
255
240 up the
detector
210
193
performs a
180 self test
simulating 4%
150 per foot
120 obscuration.
This value is
90 plotted, in this
60 case 193.

30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values
The system
255
240 them
initializes and
210
193
records the
180 0% per foot
obscuration
150 (normal no
120 smoke) value
for that
90 detector. In
60 this case 60.

30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values
A line is drawn
255
240 connecting
these two
210
193
points. This
180 line is referred
to as the
150 detectors
120 calibration
curve.
90
Calibration Curve
60

30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values Once the
calibration
255
240 curve is
established
210
193
the panel can
180 calculate an
alarm
150
145
threshold
120 value for any
112 valid
90 sensitivity
60 setting.

30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values The panel also
calculates the
255
240 initial ranges
for the drift
210
193
compensation
180 &
Alarm
maintenance
150 alert
145
120
Calibration Trouble functions.

90 Maintenance

60 Normal

30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values As the
detector gets
255
240 dirty the clear
air value will
210
193
increase.
180 Alarm
Drift
150
145 compensation
Calibration Trouble adjusts the
120
alarm
90 Maintenance
threshold
60 Normal value
accordingly.
30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values As the
detector gets
255
240 dirty the clear
air value will
210
193
increase.
180 Alarm
Drift
150
145 compensation
Calibration Trouble adjusts the
120
alarm
90 Maintenance
threshold
60 Normal value
accordingly.
30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values As the
detector gets
255
240 dirty the clear
air value will
210
193
increase.
180 Alarm
Drift
150
compensation
Calibration Trouble adjusts the
120
alarm
90 Maintenance
threshold
60 Normal value
accordingly.
30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values As the
detector gets
255
240 dirty the clear
air value will
210
193
increase.
180 Alarm
155 Drift
150
compensation
Calibration Trouble adjusts the
120
alarm
90 Maintenance
threshold
60 Normal value
accordingly.
30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values As the
detector gets
255
240 dirty the clear
air value will
210
193
increase.
180 Alarm
160 Drift
150
compensation
Calibration Trouble adjusts the
120
alarm
90 Maintenance
threshold
60 Normal value
accordingly.
30

.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration

 How Analog Works
Detectors range of analog values Even though
the detector
255
240 has gotten
dirty, it has
210
193
still
180 maintained a
Alarm
165 2.5%
150 sensitivity
Calibration Trouble
120
Calibration Trouble level.

90 Maintenance

60 Normal

30 < Replay
.5% 1% 2% 3% 4% per foot obscuration
Communication Protocols

 Each manufacturer of (analog) addressable fire alarm systems utilize

a unique communications protocol on the SLC loop to communicate
between the control panel and the addressable devices.

 Most protocols are developed by detector manufacturers.

 Many manufacturers subtly modify standard protocols, developed by

detector manufacturers, to provide a proprietary environment for
their equipment & distributors.
Communication Protocols
 Many of the panels installation requirements and operational
parameters are based on the communication protocol used.
 SLC Loop Length
 SLC Loop Wire Type
 SLC Loop Communications Speed
 SLC Loop Alarm Response Time

 Communication protocols can be broken down into two

categories.
 Non-Digital
 Digital
Comparing Protocols
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

004
001 002 006
005

003
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

To take a closer look at

communication protocols we
can look at non-digital and
digital SLC Loops through an
oscilloscope.
Non-digital Loop Response
 When an alarm occurs on many non-digital protocol
systems, some panels must continue polling until it
reaches the alarming device, before an alarm is initiated.
 Larger systems with hundreds of points can cause
delays initiating an alarm.
Non-Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005

003
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ABC FIRE SYSTEMS

ALL SYSTEMS NORMAL

15-Jan-00 3:10 PM
Non-Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005

003
FIRE!
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ABC FIRE SYSTEMS A fire erupts at the Heat

Detector (Point 001) while the
ALL SYSTEMS NORMAL system is polling the Smoke
15-Jan-00 3:10 PM Detector (Point 002).
Non-Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005

003
FIRE!
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ABC FIRE SYSTEMS An alarm is not initiated. The

system continues polling until
ALL SYSTEMS NORMAL it reaches the point in alarm.
15-Jan-00 3:10 PM
Non-Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005

003
FIRE!
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ABC FIRE SYSTEMS An alarm is not initiated. The

system continues polling until
ALL SYSTEMS NORMAL it reaches the point in alarm.
15-Jan-00 3:10 PM
Non-Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005

003
FIRE!
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ABC FIRE SYSTEMS An alarm is not initiated. The

system continues polling until
ALL SYSTEMS NORMAL it reaches the point in alarm.
15-Jan-00 3:10 PM
Non-Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005

003
FIRE!
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ABC FIRE SYSTEMS An alarm is not initiated. The

system continues polling until
ALL SYSTEMS NORMAL it reaches the point in alarm.
15-Jan-00 3:10 PM
Non-Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005

003
FIRE!
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ALARM
POINT 001 ALARM!
HEAT DETECTOR
15-Jan-00 3:10 PM
Non-Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Detector Smoke Detector (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Detector

FIRE FIRE

004
001 002 SILENT KNIGHT
006
005

003
FIRE!
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ALARM Systems with hundreds of

POINT 001 points can take 15 -20
HEAT DETECTOR seconds or longer to respond
15-Jan-00 3:10 PM to alarm conditions.
Digital Loop Response

 When an alarm occurs on most digital protocol systems,

an interrupt request from the device sensing the alarm
interrupts the polling sequence to immediately handle the
alarm.
 Systems with hundreds of points will respond to alarms
in the same amount of time that they would to smaller
systems with very few points.
Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005

003
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ABC FIRE SYSTEMS

ALL SYSTEMS NORMAL

15-Jan-00 3:10 PM
Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005

003
FIRE!
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ABC FIRE SYSTEMS A fire erupts at the Heat

sensor (Point 001) while the
ALL SYSTEMS NORMAL system is polling the Smoke
15-Jan-00 3:10 PM Detector (Point 002).
Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005

003
FIRE!
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ABC FIRE SYSTEMS The Heat Sensor (Point 001)

interrupts the polling process
ALL SYSTEMS NORMAL to handle the alarm
15-Jan-00 3:10 PM immediately.
Digital Loop Response
Addressable
Addressable Addressable Input Module Addressable Addressable
Heat Sensor Smoke Sensor (Waterflow) Pull Station Smoke Sensor

004
001 002 006
005

003
FIRE!
Addressable
Relay Module
(Fan Shutdown)

ALARM
POINT 001 ALARM!
HEAT SENSOR
15-Jan-00 3:10 PM
THE END