USACE / NAVFAC / AFCESA / NASA UFGS-28 31 33.00 10 (November 2008)
-----------------------------------
Preparing Activity: USACE Superseding
UFGS-28 31 33.00 10 (April 2006)
UNIFIED FACILITIES GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
References are in agreement with UMRL dated January 2009
SECTION 28 31 33.00 10
FIRE ALARM REPORTING SYSTEM, RADIO TYPE
11/08
NOTE: This guide specification covers the requirements for radio transmitted
fire alarm reporting systems.
Edit this guide specification for project specific requirements by adding, deleting,
or revising text. For bracketed items, choose applicable items(s) or insert
appropriate information.
Remove information and requirements not required in respective project, whether
or not brackets are present.
Comments and suggestions on this guide specification are welcome and should
be directed to the technical proponent of the specification. A listing of technical
proponents, including their organization designation and telephone number, is
on the Internet.
Recommended changes to a UFGS should be submitted as a Criteria Change Request
(CCR).
PART 1 GENERAL
1.1 REFERENCES
NOTE: This paragraph is used to list the publications cited in the text of
the guide specification. The publications are referred to in the text by basic
designation only and listed in this paragraph by organization, designation,
date, and title.
Use the Reference Wizard's Check Reference feature when you add a RID outside
of the Section's Reference Article to automatically place the reference in the
Reference Article. Also use the Reference Wizard's Check Reference feature
to update the issue dates.
References not used in the text will automatically be deleted from this section
of the project specification when you choose to reconcile references in the
publish print process.
The publications listed below form a part of this specification to the extent referenced. The publications are
referred to within the text by the basic designation only.
[INSTITUTE OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONICS ENGINEERS (IEEE)IEEE C135.30(1988) Zinc-Coated Ferrous Ground Rods for Overhead or Underground Line ConstructionIEEE C62.41.1(2002) IEEE Guide on the Surges Environment in Low-Voltage (1000 V and Less) AC Power CircuitsIEEE C62.41.2(2002) IEEE Recommended Practice on Characterization of Surges in Low-Voltage (1000 V and Less) AC Power Circuits][NATIONAL ELECTRICAL MANUFACTURERS ASSOCIATION (NEMA)NEMA ICS 1(2000; R 2005; R 2008) Standard for Industrial Control and Systems General Requirements][NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION (NFPA)NFPA 70(2007; AMD 1 2008) National Electrical Code - 2008 EditionNFPA 72(2006) National Fire Alarm CodeNFPA 780(2007) Standard for the Installation of Lightning Protection Systems][TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (TIA)TIA-222-G(2005) Structural Standards for Antenna Supporting Structures and Antennas][U.S. NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION (NARA)47 CFR 15Radio Frequency Devices][UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES (UL)UL 1242(2006; Rev thru Jul 2007) Standard for Electrical Intermediate Metal Conduit -- SteelUL 467(2007) Standard for Grounding and Bonding EquipmentUL 6(2007) Standard for Electrical Rigid Metal Conduit-SteelUL 797(2007) Standard for Electrical Metallic Tubing -- Steel]1.2 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
NOTE: Radio link supervision may be by periodic reporting of radio fire alarm
transmitters or by periodic polling of all transmitters by the radio fire alarm
receiver. The total number of transmitters on any one frequency and their polling
rate in a two-way system must be determined and checked to ensure code compliance.
The following definitions are given to help clarify the use of the words transmitter
and receiver in this specification.
1. "Fire Alarm Transmitter" refers to any device that transmits a fire alarm
message back to the fire alarm receiver at the alarm monitoring station.
2. "Radio Transmitter" is an electronic device that generates a coded RF signal.
3. "Radio Fire Alarm Transmitter" refers to a device that uses radio signals
to transmit a fire alarm message back to the alarm monitoring station. The
radio fire alarm transmitter may operate with either one-way or two-way data
transmission. For one-way data transmission, the radio fire alarm transmitter
would incorporate a radio transmitter, antenna, cables, power supply, message
encoder, and possibly an interface circuit.
a. The radio fire alarm transmitter generates and sends a coded alarm when
an alarm is received at the transmitter. The signal is received at the radio
fire alarm receiver and an alarm is given.
b. Radio fire alarm transmitters that use two-way data transmissions have
all the same components as the one-way system, but, in addition, they have a
receiver and controller. They operate by waiting for the radio fire alarm receiver
to send them a radio signal to report. The radio fire alarm transmitter then
sends back a signal reporting any alarms. Another method involves two-way radio
transmission systems which transmit signals as soon as they are received.
4. "Fire Alarm Receivers" refer to equipment that receives fire alarm messages
from one or more fire alarm transmitters.
5. "Radio Receiver" is an electronic device that detects radio signals and
generates an alarm message.
6. "Radio Fire Alarm Receiver" is a system that receives fire alarm signals,
displays, and records the alarm messages. It may simply listen for any alarm
messages (one-way data transmission) or it may sequentially transmit a radio
signal asking each radio fire alarm transmitter to report any alarms (two-way
data transmission).
When an addition to an existing system is required, provide the make, model
number, and other pertinent information to the designer. This will eliminate
most of this specification because the additional interfaces have to be compatible
with the existing central radio fire alarm reporting system.
NOTE: Insert appropriate NFPA Standard in blank.
Provide a central reporting system complying with [NFPA 72] [_____]. The equipment furnished shall be listed
by Underwriters Laboratories, or Factory Mutual Engineering and Research, or be approved or listed by a nationally
recognized testing laboratory. Furnish tags with stamped identification numbers for keys and locks. Locks shall
be keyed alike. Te radio system shall report alarms to the radio fire alarm monitoring base station. The system
shall be a completely supervised radio type fire alarm reporting system. The system shall indicate the area
of alarm. The radio communication link shall be supervised and operated in accordance with NFPA 72. Electrical
supervision shall be provided for all circuits and for all positions of interface panel control switches.
1.3 SUBMITTALS
NOTE: Review submittal description (SD) definitions in Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL
PROCEDURES and edit the following list to reflect only the submittals required
for the project. Submittals should be kept to the minimum required for adequate
quality control.
A “G” following a submittal item indicates that the submittal requires Government
approval. Some submittals are already marked with a “G”. Only delete an existing
“G” if the submittal item is not complex and can be reviewed through the Contractor’s
Quality Control system. Only add a “G” if the submittal is sufficiently important
or complex in context of the project.
For submittals requiring Government approval on Army projects, a code of up
to three characters within the submittal tags may be used following the "G"
designation to indicate the approving authority. Codes for Army projects using
the Resident Management System (RMS) are: "AE" for Architect-Engineer; "DO"
for District Office (Engineering Division or other organization in the District
Office); "AO" for Area Office; "RO" for Resident Office; and "PO" for Project
Office. Codes following the "G" typically are not used for Navy, Air Force,
and NASA projects.
Choose the first bracketed item for Navy, Air Force and NASA projects, or choose
the second bracketed item for Army projects.
Government approval is required for submittals with a "G" designation; submittals not having a "G" designation
are for [Contractor Quality Control approval.] [information only. When used, a designation following the "G"
designation identifies the office that will review the submittal for the Government.] Submit the following in
accordance with Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL PROCEDURES:
SD-02 Shop Drawings
Fire Alarm Reporting System[; G][; G, [_____]]
Detail drawings, signed by the Registered Professional Engineer, consisting of a complete
list of equipment and material, including manufacturer's descriptive and technical literature,
catalog cuts, and installation instructions. Note that the contract drawings show layouts based
on typical detectors. Check the layout based on the actual detectors to be installed and make
any necessary revisions in the detail drawings. Detail drawings shall also contain complete
wiring and schematic diagrams for the equipment furnished, equipment layout, and any other details
required to demonstrate that the system has been coordinated and will properly function as a
unit.
Wiring for Systems[; G][; G, [_____]]
Detail point-to-point wiring diagram, signed by the Registered Professional Engineer, showing
all points of connection. Diagram shall include connections between system devices, appliances,
control panels, supervised devices, an all equipment that is activated or controlled by the
panel.
SD-03 Product Data
Battery
Substantiating battery calculations for supervisory and alarm power requirements. Ampere-hour
requirements for each system component, each panel component and the battery recharging period
shall be included.
Spare Parts
Spare parts data for each different item of material and equipment specified, after approval
of detail drawings, and not later than [_____] months prior to the date of beneficial occupancy.
Data shall include a complete list of parts and supplies with the current unit prices and source
of supply and a list of the parts recommended by the manufacturer to be replaced after [1] [_____]
year of service.
Qualifications
Verification of experience and license number for Registered Professional Engineer, as specified.
Training
Training course for the operation and maintenance staff. The course shall be conducted in
the building where the system is installed or as designated by the Contracting Officer. The
training period shall consist of [3] [_____] training days (8 hours per day) and shall start
after the system is functionally completed but prior to final acceptance tests. The instructions
shall cover all of the items contained in the operating and maintenance instructions.
Test Procedures
Detailed test procedures for the fire alarm reporting system [30] [_____] days prior to performing
system tests. The test procedures shall be signed by the Registered Professional Engineer.
SD-06 Test Reports
Testing
Test reports in booklet form showing field tests performed to prove compliance with the specified
performance criteria, upon completion and testing of the installed system. Each test report
shall document all readings, test results, and indicate the final position of controls.
SD-07 Certificates
Equipment
Certified copies of current applicable approvals or listings issued by UL, FM or other nationally
recognized testing laboratory showing compliance with applicable NFPA standards.
SD-10 Operation and Maintenance Data
Fire Alarm Reporting System[; G][; G, [_____]]
[Six] [_____] complete copies of operating instructions outlining step-by-step procedures
required for system startup, operation, and shutdown. The instructions shall include the manufacturer's
name, model number, service manual, parts list, and brief description of all equipment and their
basic operating features.
[Six] [_____] copies of maintenance instructions listing routine maintenance procedures, possible
breakdowns and repairs, and troubleshooting guide. The instructions shall include conduit layout,
equipment layout and simplified wiring, and control diagrams of the system as installed. Instructions
shall be approved prior to training.
1.4 QUALITY ASSURANCE
Provide the services of a Registered Professional Engineer with at least 4 years of current experience in the
design of fire protection and detection systems. Submit the qualifications, with verification of experience
and license number, for this engineer.
1.5 DELIVERY, STORAGE, AND HANDLING
Protect all equipment delivered and placed in storage from the weather, humidity and temperature variations,
dirt, dust, and other contaminants.
1.6 SPECIAL TOOLS AND SPARE PARTS
Furnish special tools necessary for the maintenance of the equipment. Provide one spare set of fuses of each
type and size required and 5 spare lamps of each type.
PART 2 PRODUCTS
2.1 STANDARD PRODUCTS
Provide material and equipment which are the standard products of a manufacturer regularly engaged in the manufacture
of the products and that essentially duplicate items that have been in satisfactory use for at least 2 years
prior to bid opening. Equipment shall be supported by a service organization that can provide service within
24 hours.
2.2 NAMEPLATES
Major components of equipment shall have the manufacturer's name, address, type or style, voltage and current
rating, and catalog number on a noncorrosive and nonheat-sensitive plate which is securely attached to the equipment.
2.3 RADIO FIRE ALARM TRANSMITTER (TRANSCEIVER)
NOTE: Transceiver is a radio device that receives an interrogating or challenging
radio signal and automatically transmits a response on the same or a different
frequency.
Radio Fire Alarm Transmitter (Transceiver) shall be compatible with the Radio Fire Alarm Monitoring Base Station.
The transmitter shall be all solid state and comply with applicable portions of 47 CFR 15 governing type acceptance.
All transmitters of a common configuration shall be interchangeable with the other devices furnished by the manufacturer.
Each transmitter [and interface device] shall be the manufacturer's current commercial product completely assembled,
wired, tested at the factory, and delivered ready for installation and operation.
2.3.1 Frequency Allocation
NOTE: Frequency assignment is made by the base's communications Officer. The
frequency must be reserved in advance. Multiple frequencies may be needed to
meet response time requirements. Polling type systems will need separate polling
frequencies.
The transmitters shall operate on a frequency of [_____] MHz.
2.3.2 Power Requirements
NOTE: Delete requirements for manual street boxes if not applicable.
Transmitters shall be powered by a combination of locally available 120 Vac, and sealed [nickel-cadium] [or]
[lead-acid] type batteries requiring no additional water. [Transmitters used in manual street box configuration
[as indicated] shall be powered by battery only.] In the event of loss of 120 Vac power, the transmitter shall
automatically switch to battery operation. The switchover shall be accomplished with no interruption of protective
service, without adversely affecting the battery-powered capabilities, and shall cause the transmission of a
trouble message in no less than [_____] seconds. Upon restoration of ac power, transfer back to normal ac power
supply shall be automatic and the battery shall be recharged. The converter/battery charger shall be installed
within the transmitter housing. Power supply transient filtering shall be provided.
2.3.2.1 Battery Power
The battery package shall be capable of supplying all the power requirements for a given transmitter.
2.3.2.2 Battery Duration
Radio fire alarm transmitter standby battery capacity shall provide sufficient power to operate the transmitter
in a normal standby status for a minimum of 60 hours and shall be capable of transmitting alarms during that
period. The capacity for battery-only powered transmitters shall be 6 months before recharging is necessary.
2.3.2.3 Battery Supervision
Each radio fire alarm transmitter shall constantly monitor and supervise its own battery powered supply. A low-battery
condition shall be reported when battery voltage falls below 85 percent of the rated voltage.
2.3.3 Functional Requirements
2.3.3.1 Interfacing Indicators and Controls
Transmitters shall incorporate the provisions for auxiliary interconnection to existing interior alarm systems.
2.3.3.2 Generation of Signals
Each transmitter shall be a standard design which allows the immediate transmission of all initiated signals.
2.3.3.3 Power Output
NOTE: The designer should provide the necessary data to determined the required
RF power level; this may require a site visit.
The radio frequency (RF) power output of each transmitter shall be sufficient for reliable alarm reporting.
The minimum RF power output shall be [1] [_____] watt.
2.3.3.4 Memory
Transmitters shall have memory capability. Multiple, simultaneous alarms shall not result in the loss of any
messages. Messages shall be stored until they are transmitted.
2.3.3.5 Transmission Confirmation
NOTE: Use with fire alarm boxes only.
When a signal is initiated at a public box (push button or pull lever), the transmitter shall produce an audible
or visual indication that the transmitter is operating and that a signal is being sent.
2.3.3.6 Transmitter Identity Code
Each transmitter shall transmit a distinct identity code number as part of all signals emanating from the transmitter.
The identity code shall allow for no less than a [_____] digit code selection and be transmitted not less than
three complete rounds (cycles).
2.3.3.7 Message Designations
Each transmitter shall allow as a minimum no less than 10 [_____] distinct and individually identifiable message
designations as to the types or causes of transmitter actuation.
a. Master Message: Master messages shall be transmitted upon automatic actuation of the transmitter.
The building and zone causing actuation shall be individually identified as part of this transmission.
The transmitter shall be capable of identifying and transmitting a minimum of [_____] master (zone) messages.
b. Test Message: Test message shall be capable of both manual and automatic actuation. When a transceiver
method is employed, it shall provide for automatic interrogation at preselected periods or continuous
automatic interrogation in accordance with the governing standard. Additionally, transceiver systems
shall provide for selective interrogation at times determined by the user. Testing the automatic test
actuation shall occur a minimum of once in each [24-] [_____] hour period, at an optionally preselected
time. Stability of the electronic actuating device shall be plus or minus 1 minute per month within
the temperature range stipulated for system operation. Actuation of the "Test" message designation,
regardless of initiating means, shall cause no less than 1 complete message to be sent.
c. Tamper Message Designation: The tamper message shall be automatically transmitted when a tamper
switch is tripped in the transmitter housing.
d. Trouble Message Designation: Trouble message shall be automatically transmitted in the event of
a failure in excess of 1 minute of the main operating power source of the transmitter.
2.3.4 Transmitter Housings
The housings on transmitters shall be fabricated from corrosion-resistant cast metal or suitable substitute which
has the physical strength sufficient to ward off physical damage normally expected to be received by vandalism.
The housing shall be sealed against the entry of moisture, dust, dirt, insects, and other foreign objects. Exterior
housings shall be NEMA 4X.
2.3.4.1 Lock
Internal components shall be protected from vandalism by a tamper-proof lock on the transmitter housing. The
housing shall allow access to all internal components for testing, servicing, and replacement at the installation
site.
2.3.4.2 Mounting
NOTE: Choose the type of mounting most suited for application of design.
Transmitter housings shall be designed for universal mounting on walls, poles, or pedestals. Mounting shall
utilize either lag bolts, anchor bolts, stainless steel banding, mounting brackets, or a shackle/bolt combination,
as applicable to the specific installation.
2.3.4.3 Operating Panel
NOTE: Use with manual street boxes only.
Each publicly accessible transmitter shall have an operating panel that incorporates a dedicated signal initiating
device (pull hook or push button) clearly identified for the initiation of "FIRE" signals. The device shall
be protected with a conventional spring-loaded, "fast-action" break-glass, or similar pull-type door that allows
observation of the actuation device when in the closed position. The door shall be fabricated and finished in
a manner consistent with that required of the main housing.
2.3.4.4 Labeling
NOTE: Use with manual street boxes only.
Each publicly accessible transmitter shall be labeled on both sides and on the front surface with the word "FIRE."
The label shall be white with red lettering.
2.3.5 Environmental Operating Requirements
NOTE: Check local condition for design wind gust and ice loading. Lowest design
wind speed is 160.9 km/hour (100 mph); typical design wind speed is 201.2 km/hour
(125 mph).
The transmitter shall be designed for reliable outside operation in an ambient temperature range of [-30] [_____]
to [60] [_____] degrees C [-22] [_____] to [140] [_____] degrees F. Transmitters shall be corrosion-resistant
and designed for reliable operation under adverse climatic conditions including [160.9] [_____] km/hour [100]
[_____] mph winds, ice, rain, and snow storms.
2.3.6 Painting
Radio fire alarm transmitter [and interface housings] shall be factory painted. The finish color shall be [fire
engine red] [_____]. Painted surfaces damaged during installation shall be repainted to match existing paint.
2.4 RADIO TRANSMITTER INTERFACE DEVICE
NOTE: If a radio transmitter interface device is not required, delete this
paragraph.
The interface device shall provide a means of converting the signals that are available from the local control
equipment into a form that is compatible with the transmitter inputs, while still maintaining electrical supervision
of the entire system. Interface devices shall be utilized when direct connection between local control equipment
and the transmitter is not possible. Interface devices shall be completely assembled, wired, tested at the factory,
and delivered ready for installation and operation.
2.4.1 Enclosure
NOTE: Use with manual street boxes only.
When furnished as an independent self-contained device, the interface device shall be incorporated into an enclosure
conforming to NEMA ICS 1or other national standard as required by its location.
2.4.2 Indicators
NOTE: Use with manual street boxes only.
Indicators shall be provided to indicate alarm and trouble conditions and shall consist of a red fire alarm and
an amber trouble light. The indicators shall be designed to ensure visibility during daylight hours and to indicate
the reporting zone.
2.4.3 Access
Switches and other controls shall not be accessible without the use of a key. Access to controls shall be by
unlocking and opening a panel or door.
2.4.4 Mounting
NOTE: Choose the type of mounting most suited for application of design.
Interface housings shall be designed for universal mounting on walls, poles, or pedestals. Mounting shall utilize
either lag bolts, anchor bolts, stainless steel banding, mounting brackets, or a shackle/bolt combination, as
applicable to the specific installation.
2.4.5 Inputs/Outputs
Each interface panel shall provide, as a minimum, the number of alarm circuit inputs and outputs indicated.
Each input circuit shall be arranged so that the alarm signals shall override the trouble signals.
2.5 RADIO FIRE ALARM MONITORING BASE STATION
NOTE: Radio link supervision may be by periodic reporting of radio fire alarm
transmitters or by periodic polling of all transmitters by the radio fire alarm
receiver. The total number of transmitters on any one frequency and the polling
rate of the transmitters in a two-way system must be determined and checked
to ensure code compliance.
2.5.1 Receiver (Transceiver) System
[Two identical] [One] master radio fire alarm receiving (transceiver) system compatible with transmitter frequency
shall be provided. The system shall be completely assembled, wired, tested at the factory, and delivered ready
for installation and operation. Transceivers shall be solid-state design and shall use frequency modulation.
The transceiver can be a single integrated unit, or it may consist of separate transmitter and receiver modules
with a common power supply, amplifier, and control unit.
2.5.1.1 Transmitter Section
Transmitter shall operate on a frequency of [_____] MHz. Frequency stability shall be within 0.00025 percent
over the operating temperature range. Transmitter shall be designed to work into a 50-ohm load. Frequency deviation
shall be less than or equal to 5 kHz. Audio response shall be within plus 1 dB and minus 3 dB over the 300 Hz
to 3,000 Hz range.
2.5.1.2 Receiver Section
Receiver antenna input impedance shall be 50 ohms. Receiver shall be tuned to a frequency assignment of [_____]
mHz. Receiver shall have no more than 5 percent audio distortion measured at 1,000 Hz. Receiver shall have
a noise level not greater than minus 50 dB below the signal level. Receiver output shall be compatible with
the associated device.
2.5.2 Fire Alarm Console
Console shall contain a complete and independent fire alarm receiving system, consisting of, as a minimum, a
radio receiver/transmitter, signal to message decoder, audio alarm signaling devices, audio alarm silence switch,
visual display, alarm reset switch(es), alarm recording printer, primary and emergency power supplies, power
supply monitors, memory devices, and all necessary interconnecting cables.
2.5.2.1 Audible Fire Alarm
The audible alarm signaling devices used to indicate the receipt of fire alarm messages shall produce a unique
sound. The device shall be internally mounted in the console and shall be activated upon receipt of all fire
alarm signals. The audible devices used to indicate the receipt of transmitter/interface trouble messages, including
tamper and low-battery voltage, shall be separate and distinct from the device used to denote receipt of fire
alarm messages.
2.5.2.2 Visual Display
NOTE: Listed displays are minimum requirements, but if additional visual displays
are required, such displays must be added to the list.
Console display shall indicate, as a minimum, the originating transmitter identity code number and shall include
the following message designations:
a. Fire
b. Trouble
c. Battery
d. Test
e. Tamper
f. Master Zone [_____] thru [_____]
2.5.2.3 Console Memory
Console shall have a memory buffer capable of retaining a minimum of [500] [_____] transmitter codes, together
with the specific message designations associated with each transmitter. The system shall reject any received
message not matching the programmed transmitter codes where such message identification code is not stored in
the system. Upon command, the console shall display and print a summary of transmitters which have transmitted
a low-battery or trouble message, or failed to transmit a message during the previous 24 [_____]-hour test period.
Any incoming transmitter signal shall pre-empt the command display and printout function, and be processed, displayed,
and printed. The 24-hour memory shall not be purged and shall always be current and available. Transmitter
memory data shall not be lost in the event of a total loss of operating or emergency power supplies.
2.5.2.4 Console Supervision
The supervisory system shall provide constant supervision of the operating conditions of the console. Indicators
shall be provided for each major component, and an audible signal shall be produced in the event of failure of
any major component. A switch shall be provided to silence the audible trouble signal.
2.5.2.5 Receiver Supervision
The supervisory system shall provide constant supervision and display of the operating condition of the radio
receivers, and shall indicate an abnormal condition when a radio fire alarm transmitter carrier lasting more
than 15 seconds is detected. The receiver's ability to properly receive and decode an incoming signal shall
be tested at least once every [_____] minutes.
2.5.2.6 Manual Battery Test
Console shall have a switch to manually place the console on emergency battery power for test purposes.
2.5.2.7 Electrical Connections
Console shall be designed with modular components to allow interchange of components for maintenance purposes.
Primary power cables shall incorporate positive twist-lock connections. Interconnecting cables and connectors
shall be compatible with computer quality signal data transmission.
2.5.3 Antenna System
NOTE: The antenna for the dual transmitter and receivers shall be installed
with a maximum vertical separation. The designer must check local conditions
for design wind gust and ice loading. The lowest design wind speed is 160.9
km per hour (100 mph); typical design wind speed is 201.2 km per hour (125 MPR).
The antenna system shall utilize vertical polarization antennas, communication links between transmitters/receivers
and antennas, and matching networks as needed for the proper coverage. The antenna system shall be either omni-directional
or shaped-coveraged as selected by the Contractor based on the topography. The antenna system and cabling shall
be furnished to provide adequate system gain. The antennas shall be capable of withstanding the environmental
conditions of [200] [_____] km/hour [125] [_____] mph wind and [13 mm 1/2 inch radial] [_____] ice without failure.
Lightning protection shall comply with NFPA 780. Antenna supporting structures shall comply with TIA-222-G.
2.5.3.1 Grounding Conductors
Antenna grounding conductors shall be minimum 32-strand, No. 17 AWG copper.
2.5.3.2 Communication Links
Transmission line between the transmitter/receiver and the antenna shall be 50-ohm impedance rated for the transmitter
output power. As a minimum, cable shall exhibit an attenuation not exceeding 1.1 dB per 30.5 m 100 feet at 200
mHz.
2.6 FIRE ALARM SYSTEM PERIPHERAL EQUIPMENT
NOTE: Check the terrain and distances to determine if a repeater will be needed
to transmit a signal from a remote location to the main control console.
2.6.1 Repeaters
Repeaters shall be provided where indicated or required to meet system requirements. The repeater shall receive
on [_____] MHz and transmit on [_____] mHz. The receiver and transmitter sections shall conform to the requirements
specified for transceivers. Two-way data transmission shall be relayed between the base station and remote stations.
Repeater shall utilize a bandpass-type duplexer and one antenna, or multiple-bandpass cavity filters and multiple
antennas. The duplexer or filter cavities shall isolate the receiver from transmitter spurious noise and prevent
receiver desensitization. The duplexer or filter cavities shall be rated to handle the output power of the transmitter.
Repeater shall be keyed with tone-encoded control circuit. A transmitter time-out circuit shall be provided
to prevent system lockup.
2.6.2 Radio Fire Alarm Transmitter Box Location Light
NOTE: Use with fire alarm boxes only. Delete paragraph where a light is not
required. Do not use for radio fire alarm transmitters that operate on batteries
only.
Each indicated transmitter providing publicly accessible actuating functions shall be provided with a vapor-tight,
incandescent type light fixture constructed of a flame retardant, nonplastic, polycarbonate material with a threaded
ruby globe. The light shall be supported with 13 mm 1/2 inch galvanized steel conduit and located approximately
300 mm 1 foot above the box. The light shall be provided with an incandescent, 50-watt, 120-volt extended service
lamp. Transmitters which are powered by battery only shall not be equipped with location lights.
2.6.3 Conduit
Conduit and fittings shall comply with UL 6, UL 1242, and UL 797.
2.6.4 Ground Rods
NOTE: Designer will determine the size, type, and number of ground rods to
be used based on local conditions, earth resistivity data, and on the size and
type of the electrical installation. Copper-clad steel rods will be specified
for normal conditions. Zinc-coated steel or stainless steel rods will be used
where low soil resistivities are encountered and galvanic corrosion may occur
between adjacent underground metallic masses and the copper-clad rods. Stainless
steel rods have a longer life than the zinc-coated steel, but use of zinc-coated
steel must be justified based on the higher cost. Rods 16 mm (5/8 inch) in
diameter and 2.5 m (8 feet) in length are generally acceptable; however, in
rocky soils 19 mm (3/4 inch) rods shall be specified. In high resistivity soils,
3 m (10 foot) or sectional rods may be used to obtain the required resistance
to ground. Where rock is encountered, additional rods, a counterpoise, or ground
grid may be necessary. Coordinate and standardize rod selection for individual
facilities with other specification sections.
Ground rods shall be of [copper-clad steel conforming to UL 467] [zinc-coated steel conforming to IEEE C135.30
] [solid stainless steel not less than [16] [19] mm [5/8] [3/4] inch in diameter by [2.5] [3] m [8] [10] feet
in length] [of the sectional type].
2.6.5 Power Supply
NOTE: Locations with automatic backup power generation will require as a minimum
4 hours backup.
The operating power for the system shall be single phase taken from the building electric service as specified
in paragraph Power Supply for the System. Emergency backup power shall be provided by sealed [lead-acid] [or]
[nickel-calcium] type batteries requiring no additional water. The charging system shall recharge fully discharged
batteries within 12 hours and maintain the batteries in the fully charged state. The battery shall have the
capacity to operate the system for not less than 48 hours under maximum normal load with the power supply to
the charger disconnected.
2.6.6 Wiring
Wiring shall be in accordance with NFPA 70 and as indicated. Station wiring shall be color coded.
PART 3 EXECUTION
3.1 EXAMINATION
After becoming familiar with all details of the work, verify all dimensions in the field, and advise the Contracting
Officer of any discrepancy before performing the work.
3.2 INSTALLATION
Perform installation as shown and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, unless otherwise specified.
Provide all necessary interconnections, services, and adjustments required for a complete and operational system.
Electrical work shall be in accordance with NFPA 70.
3.2.1 Power Supply for the System
Provide a single dedicated branch-circuit connection for supplying power to the fire alarm system. The backup
power supply shall be automatically energized upon failure of the normal power supply.
3.2.2 Wiring for Systems
Wiring for systems shall be installed in rigid conduit, intermediate metallic conduit, or electric metallic tubing.
The conductors for the fire alarm system shall not be installed in conduits, junction boxes, or outlet boxes
with conductors of lighting and power systems. The sum of the cross-sectional areas of individual conductors
shall not exceed 40 percent of the interior cross-sectional area of the conduit. Conduit shall comply with NFPA 70
. Provide ample gutter space to accommodate necessary wiring. Submit wiring diagrams as specified in the Submittals
paragraph.
3.3 OVERVOLTAGE AND SURGE PROTECTION
Equipment connected to alternating current circuits shall be protected from surges in accordance with IEEE C62.41.1
, IEEE C62.41.2 and NFPA 70. Cables and conductors which serve as communications links, except fiber optics,
shall have surge protection circuits installed at each end. Fuses shall not be used for surge protection.
3.4 GROUNDING
Ground rods shall not protrude more than 150 mm 6 inches above grade. Noncurrent-carrying metallic parts associated
with radio fire alarm equipment shall have a maximum resistance to solid "earth" ground not to exceed 25 ohms.
3.5 TRAINING
Conduct a training course for operating staff in the building where the system is installed as designated by
the Contracting Officer. The training period shall consist of [1 training day] [[_____] training days], [8]
[_____] hours per day and shall start after the system is functionally completed but prior to the final acceptance
tests. The field instructions shall cover all of the items contained in the approved operating and maintenance
instructions.
3.6 TESTING
Notify the Contracting Officer 30 days before the performance and acceptance tests are to be conducted and submit
the test procedures to be used. Perform the tests in the presence of the Contracting Officer under the supervision
of the fire alarm system manufacturer's qualified representative. Furnish all instruments and personnel required
for the tests.
3.6.1 Performance Testing
Upon completion of the installation, the system shall be subjected to a complete functional and operational performance
test. Test shall determine that the system is free from grounded, shorted, or open circuits. When all corrections
have been made, the system shall be retested to assure that it is functional. Copies of performance test reports
shall be submitted in accordance with paragraph SUBMITTALS.
3.6.2 Acceptance Test
NOTE: Listed tests are minimum required. If additional tests are required
such tests must be added to the list.
The testing shall be in accordance with NFPA 72. The recommended tests in NFPA 72 shall be considered mandatory
and shall verify that all previous deficiencies have been corrected. The tests shall include the following:
a. Tests to indicate there are no grounded, shorted, or open circuits.
b. Tests of each radio fire alarm transmitter/receiver/transceiver/ repeater.
c. Tests of radio fire alarm monitoring base station for all required functions.
d. Tests of normal and emergency power supplies.