Installation of All Fire Alarm Systems
When starting to work on fire alarm systems, read and follow the installation instructions that come with the panel and with each device. The diagrams show exactly how the system was tested to work, any other way of wiring may not work, or may not be reliable. The specifications show you the requirements and limits of the equipment.
Sometimes, the installation manuals seem to be overloaded with non-essential information, and the sheets of paper that come with the devices look like just packing slips, but they are important enough that even I read them. I have to read them because each model of each fire alarm system is different from any other panel. If I don't read them, I miss important installation instructions.
These installation instructions are for you, the installer.
Programming the Panel
Often, inside the installation manual that comes with the panel are the programming instructions. Then again, in order to program the panel, many times you need extra computer software for your laptop computer. Quite often, the software is the only way to properly program many panels.
Talk to Technical Support
All manufacturers of fire alarm systems have technical support teams that are there for designers, installers, servicers, and testers. Call them and ask them for guidance. Just make sure you have the make and model of all the fire alarm equipment you're working on, because they will ask you for this information.
Douglas Krantz
