Analogue Addressable system

This system makes use of a loop or a daisy chain circuit which links one component to the next. As each of the system elements (Call points, detectors, sounders etc…..) have an identity of their very own, they can all be connected by one signal cable and within the occasion of a detection (fault) the fire alarm panel can identify the location on a fire by identifying which component address has registered the fault (the method utilized is known as Interrogation protocol). This also makes alterations towards the system a lot easier as any new detectors can merely have their individual address programmed onto the loop and added in at any point in the loop with out the require of excessive extra cabling.

Open Loop systems

Open loop systems (or open protocol) are systems in which various manufacturers components can be used on the system loop, this can be extremely advantageous as it means any modifications towards the system could be made by numerous suppliers which can significantly reduce price.

Closed Loop Systems

Unlike Open Loop systems, Closed Loop systems are usually controlled, maintained and altered by a single manufacturer, this can be advantageous as there’s a single point of get in touch with ought to there be any problems with the system nevertheless, upkeep costs could be high for this method as manufacturers know that only they’ve the capability to alter their system.

Wireless system

Wireless systems are becoming much more readily accessible due to the decrease in cost of wireless technologies over the past five years, they’re very helpful in workplace refurbishment projects that have original, conventional features such as cornice coving and lack of void spaces (as could be seen in Glasgow’s City centre – indeed the Well being and Safety Executive based in Bothwell St, Glasgow have adopted such a system for this very cause). In such instances the additional price of the wireless system is offset by the decoration cost involved with installing a wired system exactly where extensive raggling and generating good of feature decoration has to be carried out.

Once a system has been selected, every floor of a building would then be assigned a zone on the main fire alarm panel. This zone would correspond to a single loop as discussed earlier (generally every loop can contain as much as 120 system elements). In some cases inside large buildings or complexes, there might be the need for extra (repeater) fire alarm panels to be able to provide additional interface places for fire fighting teams and for extra connection into the building system.