Fire Alarm ... Design, Components, Applications

Fire Alarm Course
Eng. Mohamed Gamal

Course Content
1. Introduction.
2. Purpose of Fire Alarm Systems.
3. Responsibilities of system designer & Installer.
4. Types of Fire alarm Systems.
5. Components of Fire Alarm systems.
6. Types of automatic detectors.
7. Selection of suitable type of detectors .
8. Manual Initiating Devices.
9. Modules.
10. Addressing Methods.
11. Commissioning.
12. Programming.
13. Test & As Built.
14. Fire Alarm Scenario.
15. False Alarms.
16. Problems Through Commissioning.
17. Power.
3 January 2023
2

Introduction
• A fire alarm system is intended to enable a fire to be
detected at a sufficiently early stage so that people
who are at risk can be made safe either by escaping
from the fire, or by the fire being extinguished (also to
prevent extensive property damage). Neither of these
measures can be used until people are made aware of
fire.
• The effectiveness of the fire detection and alarm
system depends on the stage of the fire at which it is
operated. In order for all the occupants to escape
without too much difficulty, an early alarm should
operate before the escape routes becomes smoke-
logged to such an extent as will cause occupants to
have difficulty finding their way out of the building.
3 January 2023 3

• A fire alarm is a unit made of several devices, which
uses visual and audio signalization to warn people
about a possible fire, smoke, or carbon monoxide
occurrence in the area of coverage. Fire alarms are
usually set in fire alarm systems to provide zonal
coverage for residences and commercial buildings.
The warning signal is either a loud siren/bell or a
flashing light, or it can include both. Some fire alarm
systems use additional warnings, such as sending a
voice message or making a phone call.
3 January 2023 4

Purpose of Fire Alarm Systems
• To protect people.
• To minimize the damage and losses in
properties.
• To fight the fire early.
• Unlock doors along the path of egress.
• Operate heat and smoke vents .
• To operate some automatic fire fighting
systems.
3 January 2023 5

Responsibilities of system designer & Installer
Designer&Technical Office
• The system designer shall be
identified on the system design
documents. Acceptable
evidence of qualifications or
certification shall be provided
when requested by the authority
having jurisdiction.
•
‫للموقع‬ ‫الالزمة‬ ‫الرسومات‬ ‫عمل‬
‘Shop
Drawing’
•
‫الكميات‬ ‫حصر‬
.
•
‫العروض‬ ‫وتجهيز‬ ‫التسعير‬
.
•
‫الفنية‬ ‫والمواصفات‬ ‫بالمعلومات‬ ‫الدعم‬
.
Installer
• Installation personnel shall be
qualified or shall be supervised
by persons who are qualified in
the installation, inspection, and
testing of fire alarm systems.
•
‫العمل‬ ‫موقع‬ ‫معاينة‬
.
•
‫تقريبي‬ ‫بشكل‬ ‫المطلوبة‬ ‫األجهزة‬ ‫تحديد‬
‫طبقا‬
‫للموقع‬
.
•
‫الكابالت‬ ‫مسارات‬ ‫تحديد‬
.
•
‫الفني‬ ‫للمكتب‬ ‫المعاينة‬ ‫تسليم‬
.
•
‫طبقا‬ ‫التركيبات‬ ‫أعمال‬ ‫علي‬ ‫اإلشراف‬
‫للرسومات‬
.
•
‫للنظا‬ ‫الالزمة‬ ‫واإلختبارات‬ ‫البرمجة‬ ‫أعمال‬
‫م‬
.
•
‫والمالك‬ ‫لإلستشاري‬ ‫الموقع‬ ‫تسليم‬
.

Types of Fire alarm Systems
• Fire systems are classified as either conventional, addressable, Intelligent
addressable, or Wireless fire alarm systems, based on their capabilities.
1-Conventional Systems
 Conventional fire alarm systems are comprised of initiating and notification zones.
 The panel provides the zone where the trouble condition has occurred. However,
only general information is provided.
 When the alarm condition occurs, the panel shows which zone is in alarm.
2-Addressable Systems:-
– Addressable fire alarm systems are more versatile and have more features than
conventional systems.
– On these systems, each initiating device is assigned a unique identification or
address (i.e., address = 001, 002, etc..). Plus, these panels usually allow a device to
have a descriptive name (i.e. Address 1, Front Lobby, back door, hallway, etc.) that
helps to quickly locate where the "off normal" condition(s) occurred.
– Addressable devices are similar to conventional devices since they are either in
"alarm" or a "normal" condition.
3 January 2023 7

Addressable System
• Addressable systems use a
single pair of wires that
connects to all of the
initiating devices and control
modules.
• The panel provides detailed
information to the installer,
which helps in determining
the source of the problem.
• When an alarm condition
occurs, panel shows which
device is in alarm and its
location.
• Higher cost for addressable
detectors and modules, but
reduced time and expense
for installation and cabling.
Conventional System
• The wiring for each initiating
zone must return to the
panel. An end of line resistor
at the last device is installed
to maintain supervision.
• The panel provides the zone
where the trouble condition
has occurred. However, only
general information is
provided.
• When the alarm condition
occurs, the panel shows
which zone is in alarm.
• Lower cost for detectors and
other conventional devices.
Increased time and expense
for installation and cabling. 8

Addressable System
3 January 2023 9

• 3-Intelligent Addressable Fire Alarm Systems
• Conventional fire alarm systems provide an adequate and cost effective
fire alarm system for many small buildings. In larger, more complex
buildings however, more sophisticated ‘intelligent’ fire alarm systems tend
to be used. These systems offer benefits in speed of detection,
identification of the location of a fire and easier maintenance. Intelligent
systems also offer tolerance to faults in the system wiring, which allows a
single pair of wires to be used to connect up to 198 devices to the system,
allowing cost savings in the wiring of large systems. In larger installations,
the benefits of improved maintenance and reduced cabling cost are
overwhelming.
• Advantages of intelligent systems
– The wiring cost of a system can be reduced by the use of a single pair
of wires.
– The use of a ‘pre-alarm’ feature alerts staff to check whether a fire
condition exists before the alarm is Raised.
– Different detector sensitivities can be used for diverse Applications.
– The use of looped wiring allows the system to function normally even
with an open circuit in the loop wiring.
10

Intelligent systems
3 January 2023 11

Communication protocol
• Intelligent systems use the same pair of wires both to supply power to the
loop, and to communicate with devices on the loop. The communication
language, or protocol used varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, but
generally comprises switching of the 24V supply voltage to other voltage
levels to achieve communication.
• A typical basic protocol comprises two main parts, A query or poll of a device
by the control panel including the device address and control information,
and a response from the device giving its status and other information.
Precise details of the information transferred will depend on the
manufacturer, but normally will include:-
– Device address
– Control of device self-test
– Device type
– Remote test status 12

• 4-Wireless Fire Alarm System
• Wireless Fire Alarm Systems are ideal for fire alarm systems requiring a quick installation.
These fire alarms require no cables installing between the panel and devices. This also
means that the decoration within the building does not need to be affected during the
installation process.
• There’s no prizes for guessing that a wireless fire alarm system has no wires. Instead, a
radio signal is transmitted from the call points and smoke or heat detectors to the fire
alarm control panel.
• From the point of view of anyone using a building fitted with a wireless system, it works in
exactly the same way as a ‘normal’ hard-wired system – you spot a fire, you break a call
point; a call point breaks, the alarm sounds.
13

• Advantages of Wireless Fire Alarm System
 Minimize disruption.
 Range greater than 1km in free air.
 Eliminates cabling difficulties.
 No ugly cables or damage to your walls.
 Layout is easily modified if something in your building changes e.g. you
extend.
• Disadvantages of Wireless Fire Alarm System
 Wireless fire alarms run on batteries which need to be frequently checked
and replaced.
 Some wireless fire alarm systems use bespoke batteries which are more
expensive.
• Applications of Wireless Fire Alarm System
 Fast Installation Requirement: Time limited situations.
 Heritage: Limited disturbance to priceless décor.
 Temporary Systems: Building sites, temporary structures.
 Frequent Reconfiguration: Flexible offices, small shops.
 Difficult Cable Routes: Difficult or limited access.
3 January 2023 14

Main Components of Addressable
Fire Alarm systems
• Initiation Devices
– Automatic (Smoke Detector, Heat Detector,…)
– Manual (Call Points,..)
• Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP)
• Notification Appliances
– Audible:-Approved sounding devices, such as horns, bells, or
speakers.
– Visual:-Approved lighting devices, such as strobes or
flashing lights.
– Textual:-Visual text or symbols indicating a fire or
emergency condition.
3 January 2023 15

(A) Initiation Devices
• Automatic and manual initiating devices shall
contribute to life safety, fire protection, and property
conservation by providing a reliable means to signal
other equipment arranged to monitor the initiating
devices and to initiate a response to those signals.
• General Requirements:-
– Initiating devices shall not be installed in inaccessible areas,
Where subject to mechanical damage, an initiating device
shall be protected.
– Initiating devices shall be installed in a manner that provides
accessibility for periodic maintenance.
– Initiating devices shall be supported independently of their
attachment to the circuit conductors.
3 January 2023
17

Types Of Automatic Detectors
• 1-Smoke Detector
• A. Ionization Smoke Detector
– 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.
•
‫بيئية‬ ‫مشاكل‬ ‫له‬ ‫النوع‬ ‫هذا‬
“ Environmental Concerns”
‫مشعة‬ ‫مادة‬ ‫علي‬ ‫تحتوي‬ ‫ألنها‬ ‫وذلك‬
“Alpha Source”
‫الحساس‬ ‫تحت‬ ‫بالجلوس‬ ‫شخص‬ ‫استمر‬ ‫ولو‬
6
‫أن‬ ‫يمكن‬ ‫عام‬ ‫لمدة‬ ‫يوميا‬ ‫ساعات‬
‫بالسرطان‬ ‫يصاب‬
.
•
‫السريعة‬ ‫الحرائق‬ ‫مع‬ ‫يستخدم‬
18

• B. Optical Smoke Detector
– Uses 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
photo cell. The photo cell generates a current when exposed to light, and if the
current reaches a certain level, the detector alarms.
•
‫البطيئة‬ ‫للحرائق‬
.
•
‫ال‬
‫االماكن‬ ‫في‬ ‫يستخدم‬
‫التي‬
‫على‬ ‫تحتوي‬
‫أو‬ ‫غبار‬
‫الحالة‬ ‫في‬ ‫دخان‬
‫الع‬
‫ادية‬
.
3 January 2023 19

• 2. Heat Detectors
• A. Fixed-Temperature Heat Detectors
– If the temperature of the center disk rises to the detector’s rated
temperature, the fixed temperature element activates. This closes
contacts in the detector and transmits the alarm condition to the fire
alarm control panel. The fixed temperature element is non-restorable
and, when activated, the detector must be replaced. The need for
replacement is indicated when the center disk has fallen free from the
detector..
3 January 2023 25

• B. 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.
•
‫او‬ ‫دخان‬ ‫او‬ ‫ابخرة‬ ‫تواجد‬ ‫طبيعتها‬ ‫من‬ ‫التي‬ ‫االماكن‬ ‫في‬ ‫يستخدم‬
‫غبار‬
.
•
‫درجة‬ ‫في‬ ‫تغيرات‬ ‫حدوث‬ ‫طبيعتها‬ ‫من‬ ‫التي‬ ‫االماكن‬ ‫في‬ ‫يستخدم‬
‫الحرا‬
‫رة‬
.
3 January 2023 26

• Mechanism of Rate of Rise Heat Detector
 Normal conditions
• In normal conditions, air expanded by a small amount of heat is
allowed to escape from the vent.
 During fire 1
Heated up suddenly in a fire.
During fire 2conditions
3 January 2023 27

 During fire 2
• After a certain rise in temperature, the expanded air will push the
diaphragm up and close the contact, sending a signal.
• C. Combination RR/FT Heat Detector
• Provide both features of ROR and FT Heat Detector.
• More reliable.
3 January 2023 28

• 3. Multisensor “Sense to heat and smoke”
• Multisensor with integrated optical detector and heat detector. The
optical measurement chamber is provided with a newly developed
sensor technology, enabling the detection of open fires, smouldering
fires and fires with high heat generation. Especially for open fires.
•
‫نصف‬ ‫مساحة‬ ‫النوع‬ ‫هذا‬ ‫يغطي‬
‫قطرها‬
R= 4 m
•
‫مثل‬ ‫وحرارة‬ ‫دخان‬ ‫بها‬ ‫يحدث‬ ‫التي‬ ‫األماكن‬ ‫في‬ ‫يستخدم‬
1
-
‫المحوالت‬ ‫غرف‬
2
-
‫الكهرباء‬ ‫غرف‬
3 January 2023 32

• 4. Gas Detector
• Put nearest to the source Places
– Gas production line
– Kitchen
– Gasoline
•
‫غاز‬ ‫تسريب‬ ‫بها‬ ‫يحدث‬ ‫أن‬ ‫يمكن‬ ‫التي‬ ‫األماكن‬ ‫في‬ ‫يستخدم‬
.
• Carbon Dioxide
• A carbon monoxide detector or CO detector is a
device that detects the presence of the carbon
monoxide (CO) gas in order to prevent carbon
monoxide poisoning.
• ‫الجراجات‬ ‫فى‬ ‫يستخدم‬
3 January 2023 33

• 5.Beam Detector
• An optical beam smoke detector is a device that uses a projected beam of light to
detect smoke across large areas, typically as an indicator of fire. They are used to
detect fires in buildings where standard point smoke detectors would either be
uneconomical or restricted for use by the height of the building. Optical beam
smoke detectors are often installed in warehouses as a cost effective means of
protecting large open spaces.
• Optical beam smoke detectors work on the principle of light obscuration, where
the presence of smoke blocks some of the light from the beam, typically through
either absorbance or light scattering. Once a certain percentage of the transmitted
light has been blocked by the smoke, a fire is signaled. Optical beam smoke
detectors are typically used to detect fires in large commercial and industrial
buildings, as components in a larger fire alarm system.
•
‫في‬ ‫يستخدم‬
:
-
–
‫الموالت‬
.
–
‫المرتفعة‬ ‫الجمالونات‬
.
–
‫اسقف‬ ‫لها‬ ‫ليس‬ ‫التي‬ ‫االماكن‬
.
3 January 2023 34

• 6. Duct detector
• 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.
•
‫من‬ ‫الخارج‬ ‫الهواء‬ ‫مواسير‬ ‫على‬ ‫ويثبت‬ ‫التكييف‬ ‫مواسير‬ ‫في‬ ‫يستخدم‬
‫النظام‬
‫حريق‬ ‫أي‬ ‫عن‬ ‫للكشف‬
‫الغرف‬ ‫داخل‬
‫المكيفة‬
.
3 January 2023 37

• 7.Flame Detector
• An infrared detector is effective in monitoring
large areas, such as an aircraft hangar or computer
room. While these types of detectors are among
the fastest to respond to fires, they are also easily
activated by such nonfire conditions as welding,
sunlight, and other bright light sources. They must
only be placed in areas where these triggers can be
avoided or limited. They must also be positioned
so that they have an unobstructed view of the
protected area. If they are blocked, they cannot
activate.
3 January 2023
38

• Flame Detector comprises one or more optical
sensors, sensitive to radiation emitted at various
wavelengths in different spectral bands.
• Most popular are UV and IR solid state sensors used
alone or in various combinations to combat false
alarms.
3 January 2023 39

• (A) IR Flame Detection
– Advantages
• Low Cost
– Disadvantages
• Subject to false alarms
• Poor detection performance for stable flames
• (B) UV Flame Detection
– Advantages
• Unaffected by solar radiation
• Unaffected by hot objects
• Low cost
– Disadvantages
• Subject to false alarms from UV sources (arc welding, electrical sparks, halogen
lamps).
• Blinded by thick smoke, vapors, grease and oil deposits on the detector’s window.
• (C) UV/IR Flame Detection
– Advantages
• Very low false alarm rate
• Unaffected by solar radiation
– Disadvantages
• Blinded by thick smoke, vapors, grease and oil deposits on the detector’s window.
• Moderate cost.
40

IR
UV-IR
UV
APPLICATION


Aircraft hangars


Car, bus, tram and train parking's

Cold Storage


Diesel Engine Rooms


Electric power transformers



Gasoline / Gas Engine Rooms


Heating Rooms for chemicals

Radio amplifier rooms / Isolators for
antennas



Laboratories


Wind Turbines

Paint spray booths


Recycling and waste processing plants
41
Note* :  Suitable  Recommended

Selection of Suitable type of
detectors
• According to the previous tables, there are two
main factors affecting in selection of suitable type
of detectors:-
• Nature of place, It’s Usage.
• It’s Height.
3 January 2023 44

Manual Initiating Devices
• Manually-operated device used to initiate an alarm
signal.
• Manual Alarm Station Types
At least one manual pull station is required when either a
fire alarm or monitored sprinkler system is installed. The
system designer chooses the appropriate type needed at
each facility based on the level of protection they
determine is needed to prevent accidental operation.
– Pull station types are:
• Single Action
• Dual Action
• Break Glass Stations
• Key Operated 45

Single action Dual action
Break Glass Key Operated 46

Installation of Break Glass
3 January 2023 47

• In order to provide easy access, call points should be mounted between
1.2 and 1.6m from the floor, and should be clearly visible and identifiable.
The maximum distance anyone should have to travel in order to activate a
manual call point is 45m, unless the building is occupied by people having
limited mobility, or a rapid fire development is likely, in which case the
maximum travel distance should be reduced to 20m. Call points should
also be sited in close proximity to specific hazards, for example kitchens
or paint spray booths.
3 January 2023 48

•
‫في‬
‫حالة‬
‫مشاهدة‬
‫أحد‬
‫األفراد‬
‫الحريق‬
‫قبل‬
‫سماع‬
‫اإلنذار‬
‫ي‬
‫قوم‬
‫بالضغط‬
‫علي‬
‫وحدة‬
‫النداء‬
‫كي‬
‫تنطلق‬
‫السرينة‬
‫للتحذ‬
‫ير‬
.
•
‫يجب‬
‫أن‬
‫تركب‬
‫األزرار‬
‫عند‬
‫ساللم‬
‫الهروب‬
‫و‬
‫المداخل‬
‫والمخارج‬
‫و‬
‫بداية‬
‫ونهاية‬
‫الممرات‬
‫والطرقات‬
‫الكبيرة‬
.
•
‫تحدد‬
‫المسافة‬
‫البينية‬
‫القرب‬
‫زرار‬
‫إنذار‬
‫يدوي‬
‫طبقا‬
‫ل‬
‫ظروف‬
‫الموقع‬
‫و‬
‫بشرط‬
‫أال‬
‫تزيد‬
‫عن‬
30
‫متر‬
.
•
‫توضع‬
‫علي‬
‫إرتفاع‬
120:160 cm
3 January 2023 49

(C)Notification “Alarm” Devices
Bells “‫المبني‬ ‫”داخل‬ Horn “‫المبني‬ ‫”خارج‬
50

3 January 2023 51
Strobe Light [Flash] Speaker ( (
‫لبث‬
‫رسالة‬
‫إخالء‬

• The general requirement for the volume of audible alarm signals is
that they should provide a Sound Pressure Level (SPL) of at least
65dB(A), but not more than 120dB(A) throughout all accessible areas
of a building because Volumes greater than 120dB(A) will cause damage
to hearing.
3 January 2023 52

• Where a continuous background noise level greater
than 60dB(A) is present the fire alarm signal should
be 5dB above the ambient, but not greater than
120dB(A).
3 January 2023 53

•
‫يراعى‬
‫أن‬
‫الحد‬
‫األدنى‬
‫المقبول‬
‫من‬
‫مستوى‬
‫شدة‬
‫الصوت‬
‫إلشارات‬
‫من‬
‫الحريق‬
‫هو‬
65
‫ديسيبل‬
‫وحيث‬
‫أن‬
‫األذن‬
‫البشرية‬
‫بالكاد‬
‫تدرك‬
‫تغيىرا‬
‫في‬
‫مستوى‬
‫شدة‬
‫الصوت‬
‫بمقدار‬
2
‫إلى‬
3
‫ديسيبل‬
‫فإنه‬
‫يسمح‬
‫بوصول‬
‫الحد‬
‫األدنى‬
‫لشدة‬
‫الص‬
‫وت‬
‫إلى‬
60
‫ديسبيل‬
‫في‬
‫بعض‬
‫النقاط‬
‫محدودة‬
‫المدى‬
‫أو‬
‫المناط‬
‫ق‬
‫المحاطة‬
‫مثل‬
‫المكاتب‬
‫المفتوحة‬
‫أو‬
‫الساللم‬
.
•
‫عنىدما‬
‫يكون‬
‫مستوى‬
‫شدة‬
‫الصوت‬
‫للضوضاء‬
‫الخلفية‬
‫أ‬
‫كثر‬
‫من‬
60
‫ديسيبل‬
"
‫غرف‬
‫الماكينىات‬
‫على‬
‫سبيل‬
‫المثال‬
"
‫في‬
‫جب‬
‫أن‬
‫يزيد‬
‫مستوى‬
‫شدة‬
‫الصوت‬
‫إلشارات‬
‫أجهزة‬
‫عن‬
‫مست‬
‫وى‬
‫شدة‬
‫الصوت‬
‫للضوضاء‬
‫الخلفية‬
‫بمقدار‬
5
‫ديسيبل‬
.
3 January 2023 54

Modules
Monitor
Module
Control
Module
Isolator
Module
3 January 2023 55

Monitor Module
• It’s used to monitor the state of :-
– Flow Switch
– Tamper Switch
• It’s also used with conventional devices like (Call
Points – Beam Detector – Flame Detector) in
addressable system.
3 January 2023 56

Control Module
• It’s used to control some Process while fire
condition is activated such as:-
– Sound System
– Access control
– Elevator
– Chiller
– Smoke fan
– Shattering doors
• It’s also used to control the work of Siren and
Sounders.
3 January 2023 58

Isolator Module
• It’s used to isolate the faulty part of loop, without any effect to the whole loop.
• Automatically opens circuit when the line voltage drops below four volts. Fault Isolator
Modules should be spaced between groups of addressable devices, in a loop to
protect the rest of the loop. If a short occurs between any two isolators, then both
isolators immediately switch to an open circuit state and isolate the groups of sensors
between them. The remaining units on the loop continue to fully operate.
• The LED indicator is on continuously during a short circuit condition.
• The Fault Isolator Module automatically restores the shorted portion of the
communications loop to normal condition when the short circuit condition is
removed.
• Usually installed between every 10 devices.
•
‫الـ‬
Base
‫بتاع‬
‫الـ‬
Sensor
‫ممكن‬
‫يكون‬
Isolator
‫او‬
Sounder
‫او‬
Normal
‫وعلي‬
‫حسب‬
‫نوع‬
‫القاعده‬
‫بتحدد‬
‫مميزات‬
‫الحساس‬
.
3 January 2023
60

Operation of Addressable Systems
• In an addressable system, multiplex communication techniques allow each detector to
independently signal its status back to the control panel.
• each detector has its own identity (or address) the control panel, in addition to
providing the normal detection zone, may also be configured to give a customer defined
character message to each detector.
• In operation, the control panel sends out the first address and then waits a pre– set
time for a reply. Each detector compares the address sent out by the control panel with
its own pre–set address and the one that matches the address sends back its status.
• If a particular detector address is not found within the pre–set time because the device
has been either disconnected or removed, the control panel indicates a fault. Similarly,
if the detector address is found but the device fails to operate correctly (that is, reply)
within the pre–set time then the control panel also indicates a fault.
• The control panel then sends out the next address, and so on until all devices have been
addressed, and then it repeats the whole cycle again.
3 January 2023 62

Addressing Methods
• Different manufacturers of intelligent systems use a
number of different methods of setting the address
of a device.
• 1-Automatic, according to physical position on the
loop. ”Cooper”
• 2- Adjusting two Decimal address switches (ones
and tens) in the back of devices . ”Mircom”
• 3- Binary ‘address card’ fitted in the detector base.
• 4- 7-bit binary or hexadecimal DIL switch
3 January 2023 63

• For the fire alarm system, the numbers on the switches on the
detectors and modules represent a number used in identification
(addressing). This is similar to a phone number.
• A cell phone communicates with the phone company, and uses a
number to tell the phone company which phone is sending a
signal. A fire alarm detector or module communicates with the
control panel, and uses an address number to tell the control
panel which detector or module is sending a signal.
• All numbers, though, whether from a cell phone or a fire alarm
detector/module, have to be sent as a binary series of ones and
zeros. A cell phone does the conversion automatically, a fire alarm
detector/module does this semi-automatically using thumbwheels
or manually set binary switches.
3 January 2023 64

Thumbwheels - Decimal
• When thumbwheels are used for
addressing, the decimal thumbwheels
use the numbers 00 through 99. Each
of the two wheels has the numerical
position 0 through 9.
• In decimal, the numbers 0 through 9 mean:
0 = 0,1 = 1, 2 = 2, 3 = 3, 4 = 4, 5 = 5, 6 = 6
7 = 7, 8 = 8, 9 = 9
• Decimal thumbwheels are easy for us as humans to understand; What-You-See-Is-What-You-
Get (Wysiwyg).
In detail, the numbers shown on the thumbwheels are being converted and sent to the
control panel. To send the number 43 using decimal thumbwheels, one of the thumbwheels
is set to 4 and the other is set to 3. The 4 represents 40 (4 times 10) and 3 represents 3 (3
times 1). When you add the number represented by the first thumbwheel (40) to the
number represented by the second thumbwheel (3) you have the number 43.
The module or detector then converts this digital number 43 to the binary number
00101011.
3 January 2023 65

Thumbwheels – Hexadecimal
• It's no longer quite so simple. When adding the letters A through F to the numbers 0 through
9 on the thumbwheels, we change from a Base 10 (Decimal) way of thinking to a Base 16
(Hexadecimal) way of thinking, which is a little more like what computers use.
• In Hexadecimal:
the numbers 0 through F mean:
0 = 0,1 = 1, 2 = 2, 3 = 3, 4 = 4, 5 = 5, 6 = 6
7 = 7, 8 = 8, 9 = 9,A = 10,B = 11,C = 12,D = 13,
E = 14,F = 15
• Many times, the numbers shown on the diagrams the panels you use will show the numbers
as hexadecimal (0 through F) so you don't have to convert the hexadecimal numbers to the
normal decimal numbers (0 through 9), but when getting right down to it, the conversions
are part of the whole numbering scheme.
• To get the true number of 43, the hexadecimal thumbwheels don't show 43. They show the number
represented by the first thumbwheel added to the number represented by the second thumbwheel.
• To send the true number 43, using hexadecimal thumbwheels, the first thumbwheel is set to
2 and the second thumbwheel is set to B. The 2 represents 32 (2 times 16) and the B
represents 11 (B or 11 times 1). When you add the number represented by the first
thumbwheel (32) to the number represented by the second thumbwheel (11) you have the
number 43.
• The module or detector then converts this digital number 2B to the binary number
00101011. 66

• DIP Switches – Binary
• The DIP (Dual In-line Package) Switches are a little simpler than the thumbwheels
(and therefore more cumbersome). A switch has 2 positions (0 through 1) rather
than 10 positions (0 through 9) or 16 positions (0 through F). The switches work in
Binary; either they are off or they are on. Two-positions means Binary, and Binary is
the type of signal sent over the two wires of the Signaling Line Circuit (SLC).
• Again, though, the switch positions represent numbers. Switch 1 = 0 or 1 (1)
Switch 2 = 0 or 2 (1 X 2)
Switch 3 = 0 or 4 (2 X 2)
Switch 4 = 0 or 8 (4 X 2)
Switch 5 = 0 or 16 (8 X 2)
Switch 6 = 0 or 32 (16 X 2)
Switch 7 = 0 or 64 (32 X 2)
Switch 8 = 0 or 128 (64 X 2)
• To get the true number 43, you add the numbers represented by the switches:
Switch-on #6 = 32
Switch-on #4 = 8
Switch-on #2 = 2
Switch-on #1 = 1
All other switches off
• You add the numbers represented by the turned-on switches and get a true total of
43.
The module or detector then uses the number on the switch, which is (Switch 8 to
Switch 1) 00101011.
3 January 2023 67

Commissioning
3 January 2023
78

Pre-Commissioning
1. Check all panels, detectors and indicators are installed in their
proper location.
2. Ensure work access is permitted at all fire equipment installation
locations on site.
3. Ensure temporary mains supply for the programming computer is
made available at each control panel location.
4. Ensure installation technicians (preferably those involved in the
system installation and cabling) are present on site with necessary
tools.
5. Check third party equipment technicians are available for interface
testing.
6. Ensure the backup batteries are fully charged.
3 January 2023 79

Loop Checking with a multimeter
– The first quick test that should be done on all the loops is to check
the continuity of the loops using a multimeter.
– The resistance should be measured start positive to end positive,
start negative to end negative, and positive to negative at the start
and end of each loop.
– Test the loops with the multimeter set to AC volts – this is to check
that there is no induced voltage which could be caused by the
cables being run too closely to a high voltage source.
– This will show if anything drastic is wrong with the loop devices
wired in backwards breaks etc. If there is a short at the end or start
of the loop this will need to be fixed before powering the panel.
3 January 2023 80

• 1) Testing Procedure
• A) Continuity:
– Check the loop in and loop out continuity.
– Rectify by checking the device continuity for short circuit if the
required continuity is not achieved.
– Terminate to the loop in and loop out points of the Fire Alarm
Control Panel.
• B) Detector & Supervisory Devices
– Testing will precede one loop at a time.
– All initiating devices including manual pull stations will be
individually operated and the indications at the fire panel, PC
monitor are checked to ensure that the information is correct.
– Supervisory devices will be operated individually and checks
made to ensure that the displayed information at the panel, PC
monitor and printer is correct.
– Output devices to operate external equipment also to be
checked.
3 January 2023 81

• 2) Operation of Initiating Devices:
• A) Smoke & Heat Detectors
– Check that the green indicator LED is pulsating.
– Activate peripheral devices randomly using a chemical smoke aerosol,
Heat gun (for Heat detectors).
– After activation check that the red indicator LED is steady.
– Check if the correct message is displayed on the panel display.
• B) Double Action Addressable Pull Station
– These will be activated randomly. Check if the correct message is
displayed on the panel display.
• 3) Operation of Audible Notification Devices.
– This test has two distinct purposes. To prove the correct messages are
being received on the floors and that the audibility is correct.
– Initiate one floor for audible alarms at a time and visit the devices
randomly to determine that they are all operational.
– Set Audio levels.
3 January 2023 82

• 4) Fire Alarm Control Panel Commissioning:
• Visually check for the LCD Display, LED status, microphone,
wiring and batteries in the control panel.
• On the LCD display check for date & time, normal state display,
alarm state display, trouble state display, panel buzzer, key
functions and LED display.
• Battery to be sized for required backup and check the operation
by disconnecting and connecting the batteries. Check for status
indication and charger operation.
• Inspect the Fire phone display and check for the
communication & multiple calls and response with off hook.
• Audio operations to be checked as audio in alarm condition,
pre-recorded messages and check for the Fire phone paging
and manual paging.
• Schedule operations, device response time, network operation,
auxiliary outputs and alarm from other nodes to be checked.
3 January 2023 83

Programming of intelligent fire alarm panels
• Most small intelligent systems can be programmed with ease without the need
for any specialized equipment. The control panel has an alphanumeric keypad,
which is used to enter data into the system. Typically a password is required to
set the panel to ‘engineering mode’, allowing the panel to be programmed. Many
control panels have an ‘auto-learn’ facility, whereby the control panel polls every
address on the system, and detects which addresses have been used, and what
type of detector or module has been connected to each address. As a default,
the panel will usually programme all the devices on the loop into the same zone.
The user can then customize the system by entering how the zones are
configured. The panel may give the user an option of how modules are to be
configured - for example whether an input module should trigger an alarm or a
fault when operated and whether the wiring is to be monitored for open circuit
faults.
• Other optional features may also be programmed using the keypad. The
sensitivity of each detector on the system can be configured for high sensitivity if
the detector is installed in a clean smoke-free area, or for low sensitivity if the
area is subject to cigarette smoke, for example. The pre-alarm facility may be
enabled or disabled.
3 January 2023 84

• Complex intelligent systems offer many user-programmable features that can be
time-consuming to enter manually using the keypad. In this case, many panels
have the facility to connect a portable PC by means of a serial data link. The user
is supplied with a specialized piece of software, which enables the entire
configuration of the system to be programmed into the PC, away from site if
necessary. It is then a simple matter of temporarily connecting the PC to the
control panel and downloading the system configuration to the panel. Once the
information has been downloaded, it is permanently stored in the control panel,
and the PC can be removed.
• Auto Learn “Program”
• This is the process of addressing the devices on the loop. The process starts
telling every device to open its Isolator. It then numbers the first device and tells
this to close its isolator, the next device is interrogated and given the next
number this continues until all devices are numbered in sequence.
3 January 2023 85

• Following an Autolearn all devices are by default placed into Zone 1,
extra zones can be added and devices can be moved into the correct
zone. If minor changes are required then this can also be carried out
directly at the panel using the configure zones menu.
3 January 2023 87

3 January 2023 89
After Autolearn

• Integration test and Interface with other services
• The interface with Lifts, Jet Fans, LPG, Elevators, HVAC Equipment,
access Control etc. are achieved by activation of Control relay
module in Alarm condition. Check if the correct message is
displayed in sequence.
• The interface with Fire Fighting equipment, status monitoring of
flow control and supervisory valves and Inert Gas System status
monitoring is achieved by the dual input monitoring module.
Check if the correct message is displayed in sequence.
• Sprinkler flow switches will be activated individually by opening
the test valve at the zone control valve station and running water
to drain.
• Check if the correct message is displayed on the panel display and
PC monitor.
• BMS interfacing is achieved by software integration via BACnet.
Upon integrating to the BMS panel check whether the
communication is achieved and the required data is transferred.
3 January 2023 90

Fire Alarm Scenario
• A design fire scenario describes the sequence of a fire event with regard to
the effect of all parameters which influence the fire process. Structural and
technical fire protection as well as usage-specific boundary conditions and
the behavior of persons are considered. Possible interactions and key events
should be placed in a temporal context. The selected fire scenarios are to be
dimensioned in such a way that the resulting fire events are only to be
exceeded with an extremely low probability by a real fire event. The fire
sequence should be quantified by the specification of various parameters,
such as the heat release rate or smoke yield, depending on the fire safety
goals to be achieved.
•
‫سيناريوالـ‬
Fire Alarm
‫بيعتمد‬
‫في‬
‫كثير‬
‫من‬
‫الحاالت‬
‫علي‬
‫اإلستفادة‬
‫من‬
‫نظام‬
‫كاميرات‬
‫المراق‬
‫بة‬
CCTV
‫في‬
‫الـ‬
Delay Time
‫للتأكد‬
‫من‬
‫حدوث‬
Fire
‫حقيقي‬
‫وليس‬
False Alarm
‫من‬
‫خالل‬
‫الـ‬
Operator
‫الموجود‬
‫في‬
‫الموقع‬
.
3 January 2023 92

Download/Upload to/from PC
• Connect Laptop to the panel via the serial port.
3 January 2023 95

False alarms
• False alarms from fire-detection and fire-alarm systems can
arise from many different causes, most of which can be
dealt with by careful planning.
• Typical causes of false alarms are:
– pollutants in the air setting off smoke detectors;
– extremely high temperatures setting off heat detectors;
– vandalism or malicious acts;
– mistakes in using the system;
– the equipment being faulty or not being maintained properly;
– fire detectors or red ‘break glass’ boxes being in the wrong
place; and
– the fire-detection system not being appropriate for the building
or how it is used.
• False alarms can come from three main devices – smoke
detectors, heat detectors and ‘break glass’ boxes.
3 January 2023
96

• Smoke detectors
• Smoke detectors respond to smoke and any similar pollutants in the air. If you
have smoke detectors in your building, you must make sure the people in the
building know about them.
• False alarms triggered by smoke detectors are often caused by:
– cooking;
– making toast;
– insects, particularly in the summer months;
– welding, soldering or similar activities;
– steam, dust;
– maintenance and cleaning.
• Heat detectors
• These are generally used in kitchens, boiler rooms and similar areas where
smoke detectors may be too sensitive and cause false alarms. They are set to
allow for expected temperature levels in the protected area, and will trigger an
alarm if the temperature goes above the expected level. False alarms may be
caused by high temperatures in the protected area, or sudden increases in
temperature.
• Break glass boxes
• ‘Break glass’ boxes do not usually cause false alarms as a result of faulty
equipment. However, the glass can be broken deliberately or by accident. If you
think there is a high risk of this because of vandalism or where the box is, they
can be fitted with a transparent
3 January 2023
97

Reducing false alarms
• With false alarms becoming a big issue and some fire and rescue services not
attending commercial buildings, unless they have confirmation of a fire, many
commercial buildings are programming their addressable fire alarms to
provide them with a 3-minute delay time period before the bells may sound
or the fire brigade called.
 The way it usually works is as follows:
- Detector is activated.
- The location of the activated detector is registered on the fire alarm control
panel display.
- The local panel buzzer and any programmed strobes will activate.
- 3 minute time has started.
- If the activate device is located and found the be a false alarm the fire alarm
system is silenced.
- If a second detector is operated within the 3 minutes, this will override the
timer and activate the sounders and any outputs such as calling the fire
brigade.
- Should a manual call point be activated at any time the sounders and
outputs would activate.
Usually, manual call points and heat detectors are not governed by any timer.
3 January 2023 98

Schematic for design against false alarms

Problems Through Commissioning
• dual address
• The dual address should be displayed on the screen the panel sees
this fault if two or more addresses are responding at the same
time.
• Other effects of the dual address could be the displaying of
devices that have not been installed, the results of which could be
a Beam detector, an SCU (sounder controller), a 4/20 mA interface
or the worst case a Repeater Panel which causes a continual
resetting of the main panel.
• The most likely causes would be:-
– Device wired incorrectly.
– Base continuity switch not opening. The switch on the base can
occasionally be pushed above the metal tab preventing the switch from
opening.
• If this is the case the switch may need to be clicked under the tab,
if this fails the base may need replacing.
3 January 2023 101

3 January 2023 102
Correct Incorrect

“Open circuit” Positive/Negative.
• This means after the auto-learn the panel
has detected a break in the positive or
negative line. The most likely causes would be:-
– Device wired incorrectly.
– Base switch opening but the detector not
making contact. Ensure the base contacts
are correctly screwed down, and none
are damaged. Then ensure the detector is
replaced correctly.
– A negative break may also be caused by
a short at a device in the middle of the
loop that the loop device isolators have
detected and dealt with. See short circuit
middle below.
3 January 2023 103

“Short Circuit” start or end of a loop.
• There is a short at the start or end of the mentioned
loop. The fault can only be on the panel. The first/last
device or the wiring in between the panel and the
device. This prevents the loop driver from functioning
and must be fixed in order to auto-learn the panel.
Common causes would be:-
– Either the first or last device is wired incorrectly.
– The loop connections into the panel are wrong.
– Something is shorting on the PCB.
• Measure the resistance across the loop using the appropriate
terminals, If this is still in the Mohm region change the loop
driver card. If this is short circuit recheck the loop by
disconnecting the loop and measuring.
• If this is Mohms change the motherboard.
3 January 2023 104

“Short circuit middle”
• Device wired incorrectly.
• Device is drawing too much current. A
faulty device may draw too much current
and be detected as a short.
• Replace the device.
3 January 2023 105

• Charger Fault
• This will show if the charge current is too low. Possible causes for this
are:-
– The charger fuse has ruptured.
– The batteries are disconnected.
– The batteries are damaged.
• Battery Fault
• This will show if the charge voltage is too low. Measure the float
voltage at the battery terminals, it should be around 26V depending
on how charged the batteries are. This could be low if the batteries
are damaged, replacing the batteries should clear the fault.
3 January 2023 106

Power
• Primary (main) Power Supply The most widely used source for
the 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 engine-driven
generator or equivalent may replace the commercial 240/120
volt ac service.
• Secondary (standby) Power Supply Standby power supplies are
used in two basic forms. In one form, the standby power supply is
not directly connected to the fire alarm system but is switched in
when main operating power fails.
• In the other form, the main power source is an uninterruptible
power source. In either case, the standby power supply must: (1)
supply sufficient power for sounding a trouble signal in the event
of main power supply interruption. (2) operate the fire alarm
system for a specified standby time period.
3 January 2023 107

Fire Alarm ... Design, Components, Applications

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