So You Think You Know Fire Alarms...
For anyone who thinks they know their stuff when it comes to fire alarm systems. Some questions are rather easy, others are EXTREMELY hard.
- 1.
What is the name of the device that you pull to activate the alarm?
- A.
Fire alarm lever
- B.
Fire alarm pull station
- C.
Fire alarm activator
- D.
Fire alarm initiator
- E.
Fire alarm masterbox
Correct Answer
B. Fire alarm pull stationExplanation
A fire alarm pull station is a device that is pulled or activated to activate the fire alarm. It is typically located on the wall and is used to manually trigger the alarm in case of a fire emergency.Rate this question:
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- 2.
The following devices are all _____________.- Horn- Strobe- Bell- Light plate- Chime- Sounder
- A.
Alerting devices
- B.
Sounding devices
- C.
Notification appliances
- D.
Audiovisual output boxes
- E.
Signaling terminals
Correct Answer
C. Notification appliancesExplanation
The given devices, including horn, strobe, bell, light plate, chime, and sounder, are all classified as notification appliances. These devices are specifically designed to alert or notify individuals of certain events or situations. They may produce sound, light, or a combination of both to effectively communicate the desired message. Therefore, the term "notification appliances" accurately describes these devices.Rate this question:
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- 3.
True or false: all fire alarm systems call directly to the fire department.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
B. FalseExplanation
False. Not all fire alarm systems call directly to the fire department. While some fire alarm systems may be connected to a monitoring service that automatically contacts the fire department in case of an emergency, others may only sound an alarm within the building, requiring someone to manually contact the fire department. Therefore, it is not true that all fire alarm systems call directly to the fire department.Rate this question:
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- 4.
All of the following brands are proprietary EXCEPT:
- A.
Siemens
- B.
Silent Knight (Farenhyt)
- C.
Fire-Lite
- D.
Simplex
- E.
EST
Correct Answer
C. Fire-LiteExplanation
The given question asks for the brand that is not proprietary among the options provided. A proprietary brand refers to a brand that is owned and manufactured by a specific company and is not available for use or sale by other companies. Siemens, Silent Knight (Farenhyt), Simplex, and EST are all examples of proprietary brands. However, Fire-Lite is not a proprietary brand as it is a non-proprietary brand owned by Honeywell.Rate this question:
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- 5.
DACT stands for:
- A.
Digital alarm calculation transceiver
- B.
Dynamic access cryptography transmission
- C.
Dynamic alarm call/transfer
- D.
Data allocation call/transmit
- E.
Digital alarm communicator transmitter
Correct Answer
E. Digital alarm communicator transmitterExplanation
DACT stands for Digital alarm communicator transmitter. This acronym is commonly used in the field of security systems. A digital alarm communicator transmitter is a device that is used to transmit alarm signals from a security system to a monitoring station. It allows for the communication of important information such as fire, burglary, or medical emergencies to the appropriate authorities. This acronym accurately describes the purpose and function of the device.Rate this question:
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- 6.
All of the following are common indicators on a fire alarm control panel EXCEPT:
- A.
Alarm
- B.
Supervisory
- C.
Trouble
- D.
Smoke Level
- E.
AC Power
Correct Answer
D. Smoke LevelExplanation
A fire alarm control panel is designed to monitor and display various indicators related to the functioning of the fire alarm system. These indicators typically include alarm, supervisory, trouble, and AC power. The smoke level, however, is not a common indicator on a fire alarm control panel. Smoke level is usually detected by smoke detectors in the building and is not directly displayed on the control panel.Rate this question:
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- 7.
The "ACK" button on a fire alarm control panel does what?
- A.
Silences the panel's internal buzzer
- B.
Transmits the alarm condition to the central station
- C.
Cancels the alarm condition
- D.
Silences the system's signals
- E.
Stores the alarm event in the history log
Correct Answer
A. Silences the panel's internal buzzerExplanation
The "ACK" button on a fire alarm control panel silences the panel's internal buzzer. This means that when the button is pressed, the annoying sound produced by the panel's buzzer will be stopped.Rate this question:
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- 8.
A common alternative term for "addressable" is what?
- A.
Digital
- B.
Analog
- C.
Hardwired
- D.
Coded
- E.
Binary
Correct Answer
B. AnalogExplanation
Analog is a common alternative term for "addressable" because both terms refer to a system or device that can be accessed or manipulated using a continuous range of values. In the context of addressing, analog refers to a method of representing data or information using a continuous signal, such as a voltage or current, rather than discrete values like binary. Therefore, analog is the most suitable alternative term for "addressable" as it captures the concept of continuous and variable addressing.Rate this question:
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- 9.
Select the TWO initiation circuits:
- A.
NAC
- B.
Serial
- C.
SLC
- D.
Relay
- E.
IDC
Correct Answer(s)
C. SLC
E. IDCExplanation
The correct answer is SLC and IDC because both SLC (Signaling Line Circuit) and IDC (Initiating Device Circuit) are types of initiation circuits used in fire alarm systems. SLC is a communication circuit that connects multiple devices such as smoke detectors and pull stations, allowing them to communicate with the control panel. IDC, on the other hand, is a circuit that connects individual initiating devices like smoke detectors or heat detectors to the control panel. These circuits play a crucial role in detecting and initiating fire alarm signals in a building.Rate this question:
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- 10.
Select the TWO output circuits:
- A.
NAC
- B.
Serial
- C.
SLC
- D.
Relay
- E.
IDC
Correct Answer(s)
A. NAC
D. RelayExplanation
The correct answer is NAC and Relay because NAC stands for Notification Appliance Circuit, which is used to activate audible and visual devices such as horns, strobes, and bells in a fire alarm system. Relay is an output circuit that is used to control external devices or systems by providing a switch or control signal. Therefore, both NAC and Relay are output circuits that play a crucial role in fire alarm systems.Rate this question:
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- 11.
What is a transponder?
- A.
Allows the use of a graphical workstation
- B.
Device that communicates with the central station
- C.
Allows remote control of the panel
- D.
Contains remote initiation and notification circuits
- E.
Allows a panel to communicate with other panels
Correct Answer
D. Contains remote initiation and notification circuitsExplanation
A transponder is a device that contains remote initiation and notification circuits. This means that it is capable of initiating and receiving signals remotely, allowing for communication and notification between different systems or devices. It does not necessarily allow for the use of a graphical workstation, communication with a central station, remote control of a panel, or communication between panels.Rate this question:
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- 12.
A fire alarm panel is showing "TBL, OPEN CKT, 1:M2-31". What is the most likely cause of the problem?
- A.
There is no EOL on point 31, loop 2
- B.
There is a dead short in the SLC loop controller
- C.
Point 31 on loop 2 is a monitor module
- D.
Point 31 on loop 2 is a duct detector
- E.
A wire has been severed at point 31, loop 2
Correct Answer
C. Point 31 on loop 2 is a monitor moduleExplanation
The most likely cause of the problem is that point 31 on loop 2 is a monitor module. This is indicated by the alarm panel showing "TBL, OPEN CKT, 1:M2-31". The "OPEN CKT" message suggests that there is an open circuit, and the "1:M2-31" indicates that the issue is related to point 31 on loop 2. Since a monitor module is used to monitor specific devices, it is possible that there is a problem with the monitor module itself, causing the open circuit.Rate this question:
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- 13.
True or false: Canadian fire code does not allow the FACP to be tied to a security system for monitoring.
- A.
True
- B.
False
Correct Answer
A. TrueExplanation
The Canadian fire code does not allow the Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP) to be connected or integrated with a security system for monitoring purposes. This means that the FACP cannot be linked to a security system to receive alerts or notifications in the event of a fire. This regulation ensures that fire alarm systems are dedicated solely to fire detection and prevention, maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of fire safety measures.Rate this question:
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- 14.
Read the scenario, then answer the question:An EST3 fire alarm panel is displaying "CPU Fail" after a technician attempted to download the database, bootloader code, and application code 3-CPU3 via network download (SDU 3.72). What is the next step?
- A.
The panel's firmware is corrupted and the entire panel needs to be replaced
- B.
Reset the panel by using the "reset" button
- C.
Perform a manual reset by disconnecting all power sources, letting the panel sit, then powering it back on
- D.
Disconnect the panel from the network
- E.
The CPU in the panel has failed and needs to be replaced
Correct Answer
C. Perform a manual reset by disconnecting all power sources, letting the panel sit, then powering it back onExplanation
Performing a manual reset by disconnecting all power sources, letting the panel sit, and then powering it back on is the next step because the error message "CPU Fail" indicates that there is an issue with the panel's firmware. By disconnecting the power sources and allowing the panel to sit, it can reset itself and potentially resolve the firmware corruption issue. This step is recommended before considering more drastic measures such as replacing the entire panel or the CPU.Rate this question:
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- 15.
The Honeywell XLS1000 is the exact same panel as the:
- A.
Honeywell FS90
- B.
Simplex 4100U
- C.
Siemens MXL
- D.
EST QuickStart
- E.
EST3
Correct Answer
E. EST3Explanation
The correct answer is EST3. The question is asking for the panel that is the same as the Honeywell XLS1000, and the correct answer is EST3. This means that the EST3 panel is identical to the Honeywell XLS1000 panel in terms of its features, functionality, and design.Rate this question:
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- 16.
In 1990, all new fire alarm systems were required to have ________ installed?
- A.
Smoke detectors
- B.
Strobes
- C.
Beam detectors
- D.
Duct detectors
- E.
Automatic fire doors
Correct Answer
B. StrobesExplanation
In 1990, all new fire alarm systems were required to have strobes installed. Strobes are visual devices that emit bright flashing lights, specifically designed to alert individuals with hearing impairments or in noisy environments. These strobes are an essential component of fire alarm systems as they provide a visual warning signal in addition to the audible alarms. By having strobes installed, it ensures that individuals who may not be able to hear the traditional alarm sound can still be alerted to a potential fire emergency.Rate this question:
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- 17.
Doing the following has the potential to harm the fire alarm panel (select 3):
- A.
Shorting IDC wires together
- B.
Shorting SLC wires together
- C.
Connecting the secondary power source (DC) before primary (AC)
- D.
Wiring a NAC without an EOL
- E.
Exceeding the amperage ratings on a NAC
Correct Answer(s)
B. Shorting SLC wires together
C. Connecting the secondary power source (DC) before primary (AC)
E. Exceeding the amperage ratings on a NACExplanation
Shorting SLC wires together can harm the fire alarm panel because it can cause a short circuit, which can damage the wiring and components of the panel. Connecting the secondary power source (DC) before primary (AC) can also harm the panel because it can cause a power surge, which can overload and damage the electrical circuitry. Exceeding the amperage ratings on a NAC (Notification Appliance Circuit) can harm the panel because it can cause overheating and damage to the wiring and components.Rate this question:
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- 18.
On a zone-coded fire alarm system, the signal coding is generally controlled by:
- A.
The fire alarm panel
- B.
A coded pull station
- C.
A signal synchronization module
- D.
The signal itself
- E.
A Gamewell masterbox
Correct Answer
A. The fire alarm panelExplanation
The fire alarm panel is generally responsible for controlling the signal coding on a zone-coded fire alarm system. It receives signals from various devices such as pull stations and signal synchronization modules, and then determines the appropriate coding for the signals. The panel is the central control unit that manages and coordinates the entire fire alarm system.Rate this question:
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- 19.
A multiplex fire alarm panel most often contains which of the following features?
- A.
Addressability
- B.
Networking
- C.
The ability to use a graphical workstation
- D.
The ability to use both analog and conventional devices
- E.
All of the above
Correct Answer
E. All of the aboveExplanation
A multiplex fire alarm panel most often contains all of the mentioned features. Addressability allows the panel to identify the specific location of a fire or fault. Networking enables communication between multiple panels and devices, allowing for centralized monitoring and control. The ability to use a graphical workstation provides a user-friendly interface for managing the alarm system. Lastly, the panel's ability to use both analog and conventional devices ensures compatibility with a wide range of sensors and detectors.Rate this question:
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- 20.
Modern conventional panels typically contain which of the following features?
- A.
SLC loops
- B.
NAC's
- C.
Networking
- D.
Both A & B
- E.
None of the above
Correct Answer
B. NAC'sExplanation
Modern conventional panels typically contain NAC's, which stands for Notification Appliance Circuits. These circuits are responsible for activating audible and visual devices such as horns, strobes, and speakers to alert occupants in case of an emergency. NAC's are an essential feature in fire alarm systems, ensuring that the alarm signals are effectively communicated to people within a building. Therefore, the correct answer is NAC's.Rate this question:
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- 21.
Suppose you are a janitor in a small building. The fire alarm panel displays "COMM FAIL, PHONE LINE 1". What action should you take?
- A.
Contact the manufacturer of the fire alarm panel to ask for technical assistance
- B.
Check that the line seizure has been properly implemented
- C.
Disconnect the fire alarm panel until the problem can be resolved
- D.
Contact your local fire alarm installation/service company
- E.
Change the report codes in the programming of the panel
Correct Answer
D. Contact your local fire alarm installation/service companyExplanation
You should contact your local fire alarm installation/service company because they are the experts who can help resolve the issue with the fire alarm panel. They have the knowledge and experience to diagnose and fix problems with fire alarm systems.Rate this question:
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Current Version
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Mar 21, 2023Quiz Edited by
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Jul 18, 2010Quiz Created by
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