Conventional Fire Alarm System
Let us start with the simplest of the two systems. A conventional fire alarm system is a fire alarm system wired using a radial method (single legs of cable). These radials are wired from the main fire alarm panel and are either fire alarm zones or sounder circuits.
Fire alarm zones are the radial circuits that monitor the detectors and manual call points. These zone circuits can accommodate multiple detectors and call points on each radial circuit.
Sounder circuits are the radial circuits that control the fire alarm sounders and Visual Alarm Devices (VADS). These circuits can accommodate multiple sounders, but they are generally limited to each sounder’s power consumption, along with how much output the panel offers on each sounder circuit.
- Low-cost fire alarm devices.
- Simple to use.
- Ideal for small buildings.
Conventional fire alarm systems are generally more cost-effective than their addressable counterparts. They are ideal for small to medium-sized buildings with straightforward fire safety needs, offering reliable protection without the higher price tag.
These systems are known for their ease of installation and operation. With a simpler setup process, they are perfect for facilities that do not require advanced features. The system operates on a zonal basis, making it straightforward to install and maintain.
Conventional systems have a long-standing reputation for reliability. They have been in use for decades, providing consistent and dependable fire detection and alarm capabilities in various environments.
Maintaining a conventional fire alarm system is generally less complex. Troubleshooting is easier due to the system’s straightforward design, making it an ideal choice for buildings with limited technical staff.
During installation, the building is divided into zones, each with its dedicated circuit connected to the control panel. Smoke detectors, heat detectors, and manual call points are installed throughout the building, each linked to the appropriate zone.
• Control Panel: Learn to navigate the control panel, where all zones are monitored. The panel displays alarms and faults, indicating the specific zone where the issue has occurred.
• Responding to Alarms: When an alarm is triggered, the control panel will sound an alert and display the affected zone. Inspect the identified zone immediately to assess the situation.
• Resetting the System: After confirming there’s no fire, authorized personnel can reset the system through the control panel.
• Routine Checks: Regularly test each detector and manual call point to ensure they are functioning correctly. This helps prevent faults and ensures the system is ready in case of an emergency.
• Battery and Connection Inspection: Regularly check the system’s backup batteries and wiring connections to ensure everything is in working order.
• Control Panel: Learn to navigate the control panel, where all zones are monitored. The panel displays alarms and faults, indicating the specific zone where the issue has occurred.
• Responding to Alarms: When an alarm is triggered, the control panel will sound an alert and display the affected zone. Inspect the identified zone immediately to assess the situation.
• Resetting the System: After confirming there’s no fire, authorized personnel can reset the system through the control panel.
• Routine Checks: Regularly test each detector and manual call point to ensure they are functioning correctly. This helps prevent faults and ensures the system is ready in case of an emergency.
• Battery and Connection Inspection: Regularly check the system’s backup batteries and wiring connections to ensure everything is in working order.