The Difference Between Conventional & Addressable Fire Alarms
Conventional fire alarms are ideal for small buildings, such as individual offices or retail shops. They go off individually when they detect smoke or heat and will help everyone escape from your building safely and quickly.
Addressable fire alarms are a necessity for large building complexes or campuses. Addressable fire alarm systems can be customized in a variety of ways, including:
- Different smoke and heat detection devices can have different alarm thresholds based on their location
- An annunciator panel in the front of your building can show exactly which devices or zones have been triggered
- Scalable networks can allow you to add zones with ease
Addressable fire alarm systems are typically more expensive than conventional alarms, but the extra information they provide to firefighters and building managers is invaluable.
The Benefits of Addressable Fire Alarms
Addressable fire alarms are invaluable for a large building or campus. Since they show exactly which devices are going off, it’s easier to determine where there is a fire or, in the event of a false alarm, which specific device is having a problem.
Another benefit of addressable fire alarms is that they may require less cabling than conventional fire alarms. All of the devices installed as part of an addressable fire alarm system connect to a single-signal cabling loop that runs through the entire premises, making it easy to add new devices to the existing system.
The Benefits of Conventional Fire Alarms
Conventional fire alarms can be set up in zones, with each zone hardwired to a control panel or zone expander. Even though each device is not individually addressed, conventional panels can still identify the general zone or area of alarm to the first responder. Conventional fire alarm systems are much less expensive and require significantly less labor to install.
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Addressable vs. Conventional FAQs
How many devices can be in a conventional fire alarm system?
Depending on the manufacturer, most conventional fire alarm systems max out at 20 to 30 devices per zone. Larger buildings could require multiple zones to accommodate all necessary devices. While this can increase a system’s complexity and cost, it’s essential for adequate coverage. On the other hand, addressable fire alarm systems allow for a much larger number of devices to be connected to a single loop, making them a good choice for bigger buildings without the need for multiple zones.
How do I know if my fire alarm is addressable?
Check the control panel. Addressable systems label each device with a unique “address,” which allows the panel to pinpoint the exact location of a triggered device. This feature can reduce response time and make troubleshooting easier. As conventional systems show alarms only within a general area, addressable systems are often preferred in larger or more complex buildings where specificity and speed are crucial.
How do I know which fire alarm system is right for my building?
Choosing the right system depends on your building’s size, layout, and safety requirements. Conventional systems are often adequate for smaller buildings with straightforward layouts. Larger, more complex buildings or complexes can benefit from an addressable system’s precision and scalability. Confires’ knowledgeable team members can assess your specific needs and provide tailored guidance.
Can I integrate addressable fire alarms with other fire safety systems?
Yes, addressable fire alarm control units typically integrate seamlessly with other fire safety systems, including sprinkler systems, smoke control, emergency lighting, and building management systems. This allows for streamlined monitoring, automated responses, and enhanced safety coordination. Integration ensures all systems work together efficiently in an emergency, facilitates quicker responses, and helps maintain code compliance.
Can I expand a conventional fire alarm system?
Expanding conventional fire alarm systems can be challenging, with each new floor or area requiring additional zones and wiring to maintain sufficient detection coverage. This often involves significant reconfiguration and added installation time and cost, especially in larger or multi-level buildings. Additionally, as each zone can only support a limited number of devices, expansions often quickly hit capacity limits. Because it offers greater scalability and flexibility, an addressable system is generally a more efficient choice for significant or future-proof expansion, as it allows you to add individual devices without complex rewiring.
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