An addressable fire alarm system gives each addressable device, such as a smoke detector or manual call point, its own address. When a device signals an alarm, the fire alarm control panel can show which device activated and its programmed location, if one has been set.
How does an addressable fire alarm system work?
The control panel communicates with compatible devices on a circuit called a loop. Each device reports under its own address. For example, if a call point operates, the panel can identify that call point and display its location label. This helps people locate the source of the alarm signal.
Addressable vs conventional fire alarms
A conventional panel typically shows the zone that signalled the alarm. An addressable panel can identify the individual device as well. Advanced’s comparison of the two systems explains how device-level reporting and wiring differ.
Two-wire conventional systems are still zone-based. For example, Apollo AlarmSense lets compatible detectors, call points and sounders share the same pair of wires on a conventional zone.
Choosing addressable fire alarm equipment
For a replacement or extension, start with the existing panel model and loop protocol. Check the panel manufacturer’s compatibility information for the exact detector, call point, sounder or interface before ordering. For a new system, use the fire alarm design to determine the panel, loops and devices required.
Browse addressable fire alarm systems or go straight to addressable fire alarm panels and addressable detectors.
