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When it comes to the best safety and security solutions, it’s all about prevention. Avoiding any damage to property and ensuring the safety of people on-site involves a reliable security system, and a fire alarm system is an essential part of every security network. No matter the location, scale, or use of the property, a top-notch fire alarm system will help keep employees and the property free from harm.
As you look for the best option for your location, understanding the difference between addressable and conventional fire alarm system options is a must to equip your space with the best technology. To help you make the right choice, our team at Forbel is breaking down the basics of the different fire alarm systems to guide your selection.
So, what is a conventional fire alarm system? A conventional fire alarm system relies on one or more circuits that are connected to sensors to signify a fire. With this system, each device has its own wire, which is then linked to the control panel. Due to the multiple connections from each device to the control panel, setting up a conventional alarm system is a bit more intricate of a process.
As explained previously, a conventional fire alarm system is a fire alarm choice in which each device is connected to the control panel by its own wire. With this system, devices are zoned, signaling the general location of fire from the device to the control panel. This can make pinpointing the exact location of a fire challenge, but it does provide a general idea of where it is to help guide you.
While a conventional alarm system can be tricky to install, there are some key benefits to this alarm choice. This may not be the most commonly chosen alarm system these days, but it is a tried-and-true option that suits a number of smaller locations.
Many opt for this fire alarm system because:
An addressable fire alarm system involves devices each connected to their own address. Unlike a conventional alarm system that relies on zones, addressable systems detect a fire which then shows up on the main control panel, sharing exactly what device detected it. This helps quickly extinguish a fire as you know immediately where it’s located.
How does an addressable fire alarm system work exactly? Good question. Since each device or module is connected to the fire panel by its own wire, the system is able to use a binary code to send digital signals that share exactly where a fire is detected.
Unlike conventional systems, an addressable fire alarm system is incredibly scalable, making it the ideal solution for larger buildings or campuses. This is due to the fact that they can provide more specific information, making quickly finding a fire in a large location easier, ultimately minimizing potential damage.
With a scalable system and clear, direct signaling of where a fire has been detected, it’s no wonder addressable fire alarm system options are so popular. To help further understand the difference between conventional and addressable fire alarm system choices, let’s go over the main benefits of the addressable systems.
Ultimately, the main difference between conventional and addressable fire alarm system choices is the ability to pinpoint a fire. With an addressable fire alarm system, you can quickly understand exactly where a device has detected a fire, while a conventional alarm system will provide a zone.
With this basic difference, there are also different locations that can utilize each system. Typically, for a larger location, an addressable system is best. This is because it can provide that specific direction of where a fire has been detected, taking the guesswork out - an essential perk when working with a large location where a fire may not be immediately clear.
However, these systems also differ in price. In fact, addressable fire alarm system options are often more expensive than their conventional counterparts. In many cases, the specific information the addressable system can share makes it well worth the cost.
When taking a look at the difference between addressable and conventional fire alarm system choices and selecting the right one for you, begin by considering the size of your space. Is it a smaller office building? Or a large, multi-story complex? Ensuring that the entire building and everyone in it is safe is a top priority, and for a larger facility, a scalable option like an addressable fire alarm system is a no-brainer.
However, if it’s a smaller location (and a smaller budget!), a conventional alarm system will be just fine.
No matter if you choose a conventional fire alarm system for your home or office or an addressable fire alarm system for your large construction property, both options are essential to catching fire quickly, minimizing any damage it may cause.
For additional guidance on the difference between conventional and addressable fire alarm system options and which is best for you, as well as the premium technology to match, our team at Forbel is happy to help. With years of experience installing the best fire alarms and security systems across the Chicagoland area, we offer the best fire alarm solutions to all our clients, ensuring a safe environment for you and your work.
To get started with your new system today, contact us at 847-595-1900, and we will work to find the best solution.
