1.10. REMOTE LEDS

Most system smoke detectors are equipped with a terminal to allow the connection of a remote LED. Remote LEDs are often used outside bedroom doors in hotels so that in case of a fire, it is easy for the fire brigade to identify the location of the fire without the need to enter every room in the building. They may also be used where a detector is concealed in loft space, for example, to provide a visual indication that the detector is in an alarm state.

1.11. INTERFACE MODULES

Input and Output modules can be used to provide an interface between a fire loop and a variety of types of electrical equipment. Output or control modules can be used to operate sounders or shut down electrical equipment by command from the panel in case of a fire. Input or monitor modules are used to monitor volt-free switch contacts, for example from a sprinkler supervisory switch or an existing conventional fire panel. Conventional zone monitor modules are also available, providing an interface between a zone of conventional detectors and an analogue fire detection loop, and are often used when existing conventional systems are upgraded.

1.12.PROGRAMMING OF INTELLIGENT FIRE ALARM PANELS

Most small intelligent systems can be programmed with ease without the need for any specialised 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 customise 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.

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 specialised 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.

1.13. ADVANTAGES OF INTELLIGENT SYSTEMS

•The wiring cost of a system can be reduced by the use of a single pair of wires for up to 198 devices including smoke and heat detectors, call points, beam detectors, input and output modules.

•Intelligent Systems allow the location of a fire to be precisely located from the control panel

•The use of looped wiring allows the system to function normally even with an open circuit in the loop wiring

•The use of short circuit isolators allows correct operation of most, if not all of the system even with a short circuit in the loop wiring

•Detectors are constantly monitored for correct operation

•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 addressable loop-powered sounders allows the same wiring to be used for sensors, call points and sounders

•The use of monitor modules allows contacts from sprinkler switches, existing fire alarm systems, fire dampers etc. to be monitored using detector loop wiring

•The use of control modules allows sounder lines, air conditioning systems, lifts etc. to be controlled or shut down using detector loop wiring

Intelligent Fire Alarm Systems

Note: This document is based on the recommendations of BS5839 Part 1: 2002. It is intended only as a guide to the application of fire detection systems.

Reference must be made to relevant national and local standards.

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System Sensor BS5839 manual Remote Leds, Interface Modules, Programming of Intelligent Fire Alarm Panels
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BS5839 specifications

System Sensor BS5839 is a standard that pertains to fire detection and alarm systems, providing guidelines for the design, installation, and maintenance of these essential safety tools. It is crucial for safeguarding lives and property, ensuring that fire detection systems are effective and reliable. The BS5839 standard, established in the UK, covers a wide range of fire alarm system types, including conventional, addressable, and wireless systems.

One of the main features of BS5839 is its comprehensive classification of fire detection systems. The standard divides systems into categories based on the level of risk and the environment in which the system will operate. This classification helps ensure that the system installed meets the specific needs of the building and its occupants. For example, Category L systems are meant for life safety, while Category P systems are designed to protect property.

The technologies underpinning BS5839 include various types of detectors, alarm devices, and control panels. Smoke detectors, heat detectors, and multi-sensor detectors are prominent among the devices specified in the standard. Smoke detectors use photoelectric or ionization principles to detect smoke and signal an alarm, while heat detectors respond to temperature changes. Multi-sensor detectors combine both smoke and heat detection technologies to provide a more reliable response to fire conditions.

Another key characteristic of BS5839 is the emphasis on regular testing and maintenance. The standard outlines procedures to ensure that systems remain operational and effective over time. This includes routine system checks, functional testing, and more in-depth inspections at regular intervals. Ensuring that systems are maintained according to BS5839 is vital for compliance with insurance requirements and for safeguarding against potential legal liabilities.

Furthermore, BS5839 highlights the importance of staff training and awareness. It emphasizes that personnel responsible for fire safety must be adequately trained in the operation and response to fire alarm systems. This ensures that in the event of a fire, occupants are prompted to take appropriate action and evacuate safely.

In summary, System Sensor BS5839 provides a crucial framework for fire detection and alarm systems. Its classification of systems, incorporation of advanced technologies, and emphasis on maintenance all contribute to enhanced safety and compliance, protecting lives and property effectively.
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