Why You Should Add Burglar Alarms and Panic Buttons to Your Fire Alarms

We had a recent client from an emergency radio communications service who faced the challenge of integrating burglar alarms and panic buttons into their existing fire alarm system.

As we explore a recent email conversation between this client and John, a Digitize engineer, I'll show you:

• How to integrate different alarms and buttons into an existing fire alarm system (including one based on telegraph)
• The advantages of having a multi-functional system

Know that Combining Fire and Burglar/Panic Alarm Systems Requires Good Planning

This real-world scenario began with a question regarding the integration of fire alarms and burglar alarms in a county building. The challenge was to determine whether the systems should share an account number or be separate:

"Will both systems have the same account number because they are the same building or will it be separate? How do I set it up in the (Digitize System) 3505 and how are they programmed into the Annunciator software?"

John explained how distinct alarm levels for different types of alarms work to support good monitoring and response:

"If the 'fire' and 'panic' alarms are coming from one panel then they will probably be the same account number. You can have them send a few signals from each type of alarm. Then you will know for sure."

This approach makes sure that each alarm type can be uniquely identified and appropriately prioritized. Doing so enhances the dispatchers' ability to respond quickly and accurately.

Don't Underestimate the Value of Custom-Tailored Alarm Systems

The next challenge was configuring the new panic alarms within the existing system without causing conflicts. The client discovered that changing the priority from 'fire' to 'burglary' was not straightforward due to existing settings:

"I tried to do 48- and change the priority from 'fire' to 'burglary' but it told me I couldn’t do that because the number already existed."

John's response demonstrated the flexibility of the System 3505 Prism LX and the importance of tailored configurations to meet specific needs:

"Panic alarms even if several are received as 1 general alarm is simple. Assuming you will get either zone 2 or 3 or 4 from the dialer you will program specific Dialer messages for each panic device."

This customization makes sure that the new panic alarms are correctly integrated into the existing system. Proper integration provides clear, distinct notifications that help dispatchers quickly differentiate between fire and panic situations.

Choose Modular and Scalable Systems to Adapt to Evolving Needs

Two benefits of having a strong, multi-functional system (and associated components) are their modularity and scalability. Certain systems have the option to be configured to display and announce different alarms with unique sounds and colors:

"The RA program can be set to a unique sound and color for each priority level 2, 4, or other alarm."

By differentiating alarm types visually and audibly, the system minimizes confusion and makes sure that critical alarms receive immediate attention. The flexibility to add or modify alarm priorities and notifications without extensive reprogramming or hardware changes makes it a future-proofed solution for growing or evolving facilities.

Use Streamlined Alarm Management to Improve Dispatcher Speed

Another key factor when you're integrating new alarm systems is making sure that dispatchers can manage and respond to alarms efficiently.

Digitize created the System 3505 Prism LX, which offers several features that streamline this process. One such feature is the ability to program user-defined instructions and customizable dispatcher logs. This enhances the clarity and precision of alarm notifications:

"The Remote Annunciator allows key information to be displayed, annunciated, and acknowledged, as well as providing instant access to key alarm data."

This capability makes sure that dispatchers have all the necessary information at their fingertips. This readiness reduces response times and improves overall efficiency.

By having access to historical data and the ability to export logs, dispatchers can maintain detailed records of all incidents. These detailed records contribute to better analysis and reporting.

Look for Comprehensive Monitoring with "Future-Proofed" Technology

John’s detailed instructions on setting up the panic alarms illustrate the advanced capabilities of the Prism LX. This system supports various configurations and integrations.

This includes the use of Addressable Panic Buttons and Data Gathering Modules (DGMs). Both enhance monitoring capabilities across multiple zones and inputs:

"Any zone input has internal lighting and surge protection and Ground Fault Detection."

These functions provide reliable performance and protection against environmental factors. Internal lighting maintains the visibility and operational integrity of key components, even in low-light conditions. This creates quicker inspection and maintenance times.

Surge protection safeguards sensitive electronics from power spikes. This protection reduces the likelihood of system malfunctions and costly downtime. Ground fault detection adds another layer of safety by identifying potentially hazardous electrical conditions.

Identifying potential hazards maintains the system's functionality and minimizes risks associated with electrical faults. Together, these features make the Prism LX suitable for diverse applications, including high-security environments and large-scale installations.

Simplify Integration with Existing Systems

Integrating new alarm systems with existing infrastructure can be challenging. However, the Prism LX simplifies this process with its configuration options. Whether connecting to legacy systems or adding new components, the System 3505 Prism LX provides straightforward integration:

"The Digitize Remote Annunciator links to the System 3505 Prism LXs using a standard Ethernet connection, provided by others."

This compatibility makes sure that facilities can upgrade and expand their alarm monitoring capabilities without significant disruptions or the need for extensive reprogramming.

The ability to network multiple Remote Annunciators allows for specialized monitoring by department or alarm priority.

Take Action Now to Optimize Your Alarm Monitoring System

Effective alarm monitoring is critical for safety and operational effectiveness. The System 3505 Prism LX and its components, such as the Remote Annunciator and Addressable Panic Buttons, offer reliable solutions for integrating various alarm types within a single, manageable system.

Enhance your facility’s alarm monitoring capabilities with Digitize's advanced solutions. Contact us today to learn more about how our products can be customized to meet your specific needs and improve your response times in critical situations.

Call Digitize now at 1-800-523-7232 or email sales@digitize-inc.com to get started on upgrading your alarm monitoring system.