Did you know Dr. William Channing and Moses farm invented the fire alarm in 1852? These two invented the first fire alarm that wasn't an actual human being calling our fires. The system included two boxes, a telegraphic key, with a handle attached.

But what do you know about your modern-day fire alarm control panel? For over 50 years, fire alarm control panels have been used for many things. Uses for a fire alarm control panel include detecting carbon monoxide and so much more. 

Keep reading to find out how a fire alarm control panel (FACP) works. And we'll teach you all about the handy system inside your fire alarm. Also, keep reading to learn how we can help you with our many services. 

How Does an FACP System Work? 

Not all fire alarm control panels work the same and some have functions others don't. Some activate fire suppression and others turn on sprinkler systems in case of a fire. So, there's a wide range of responsibilities an FACP has to deal with. 

Here's how a fire alarm control panel works. A fire starts and a heat detector or smoke detector sounds an alarm.

Someone may also switch on a pull station — a manual fire alarm system. A fire sprinkler system may send a signal to the fire alarm control panel. Most panels can't activate sprinkler systems to put out fires during a fire drill or actual fire. 

The fire alarm control panel responds to any of the signals listed above. The FACP responds by making noise or flashing, activating a local fire alarm system. Keep the fire alarm control panel in a safe place with easy access. 

Trendy Systems Inside a Fire Alarm Control Panel

For decades, inventors included wireless radio technology in fire alarm control panel systems. In some cases, running long lines of wire costs a lot of money — so more and more systems are going wireless to save money. 

But don't underestimate the seriousness of wireless fire detection. In recent years, fire alarms made to fit with state fire laws are created every day. 

There are a few conditions a wireless FACAP must meet before it goes out onto the market. These provided codes come from Section 23.16, NFPA 72: 

• The transmitter must have a distinctive identification number 
• You can put dry cell batteries into the system, but make sure they'll last a year
• Once the batteries die, the system must keep enough power to transfer signals

These are to name a few of the responsibilities of a wireless fire alarm control panel system. 

Fire Alarm Control Panel and How We Can Help

Understanding a fire alarm control panel system is a tricky business. But, with our guide, we hope you understand the system a little better now. 

The main responsibility of a fire alarm control panel is to receive and send signals. Other systems like sprinklers and fire alarms receive these signals.

For more information about FACP systems and how we can help you, contact us. And, don't forget to check out our website.