The era of the Internet of Things is upon us. Your living room is probably filled with IOT based devices, like your ceiling fans. The fire alarm devices too are now based on IOT, and they come with a controlling component called the Fire Alarm Control Panel.
Fire Alarm Control Panel
The controlling component in a fire alarm is the Control Panel, also called the fire alarm control unit (FACU). The function of the control panel is similar to that of the Central Processing Unit (CPU) in the desktop computer. All the functionalities of the fire alarm system are linked to the control panel. The control panel runs the sensors and primarily the entire fire alarm system.
There are two types of control panels – the addressable and the conventional panels. Some panels are capable of using solenoids. These panels generally have a cut-off switch. This switch helps halt an unexpected release of the halo – water mixture which could damage the building unnecessarily.
The panel is usually kept in the center of the room. Sensors are placed all around the house. If a sensor detects a fire in one corner of the house, it sends a message to the Control Panel. The control panel then activates the alarm, and the water sprinklers are enabled in that part of the room. If the fire is put out, then the sensor again sends a message to the Control Panel. This is the most typical example of how a control system of a fire alarm works.
Advantages:
You shall save a lot of power and water because the sprinklers only target the area where the fire has started.
It also has a storage memory where any such mishaps are recorded. You can go through the data in the system for more details.
It is adaptable and can be moved around with ease. Synchronizing it with the other fire alarm system components is also a simple process.
The panel can also be battery powered, and provide electrical energy to all the various components of the system.
It is advisable to be prepared in case of a fire and having a control panel that just automates your role in safeguarding your home.