Wireless means transmitting signals in a manner that is similar to an addressable multiplex wired system except for the absence of wiring between components and it also utilizes redundant class “A” RF signalling as standard feature. The wireless fire alarm system comprises three components that consist of initiating devices that have RF transmitters, RF transponders that are called repeaters, and control panels. There may also be extras such as display/printers, RS 232 computer interfaces as well as remote annunciator as well as relay receivers.
A typical wireless alarm system may operate between 290-305 MHz bands which is called the “forbidden band” due to the fact that no commercial radio signals are permitted in this range of frequencies. It would also include wireless transmitting devices such as photoelectric smoke detectors; pull stations, heat detectors as well as maintenance transmitters to connect devices with contacts, and also a host of security devices.
Many Advantages
The wireless fire alarm system provides users with many advantages that are suited for all types of occupancies as well as facilities. As can be deduced, the main advantages emanate from the lack of wire runs and trenching, and the installation time is but a fraction of that of conventional systems. In addition, the wireless fire alarm system can also afford a grouping of multiple emergencies on one system that has a redundant class “A” signalling path.
Not having wires to contend with makes the wireless fire alarm system very cost effective, and is a viable alternative to get protection from fires that may otherwise have proved to be unavailable due to economic, environmental or aesthetic constraints. An example of such a constraint would be a building with asbestos and multiple building facilities with antiquated underground wiring systems.
Progression Of Commercial Systems
In the course of the past twenty-five years, commercial wireless fire alarm systems have found greater utility in all types of occupancy including industrial facilities, high rise buildings, universities and colleges, historical properties, museums, hotels, court houses, golf and ski resorts as well as state and federal facilities.
The wireless fire alarm system uses binary tone encoded radio signals in order to transmit signals, rather than using wiring, conduit, cable, line carrier, fibre optics or any other physical intermediary method. Thus, such a fire alarm system will not be subject to inherent problems because it operates on radio signals. The wireless concept also allows for fast as well as efficient solutions regarding maintenance as it does away with the need to check a wiring maze or electrical connections.