Safety is a valuable asset. In a fire alarm system, a variety of devices work together with fire alarm panels through visual and audible alerts when smoke, fire, carbon monoxide, or other emergencies are present. These fire alarm codes are then immediately reported to a local fire prevention control center. In most metropolitan areas, buildings are required to install multiple fire alarm panels on each floor in order to pass along fire alarm codes to trigger warning signals and expedite the evacuation process.

The principle of networking involves connecting several panels together to form a system that allows different panels to be monitored by one geographical monitoring system. Typical fire alarm panels are designed with proprietary serial protocols that transmit fire alarm code information. Due to distance and environmental concerns, a serial fiber network can be implemented to overcome the typical serial copper cable length limitation of 1.2Km.

A dual serial fiber network is also an effective way to decouple systems and reduce the risk of a portion of a facility going offline at any time due to system failure or maintenance requirements. Antaira’s industrial serial to fiber media converters are designed to ensure 24/7 and long-lasting operation. Each unit inside the fire alarm panel supports dual fiber connections to prevent data loss to the fire prevention control center.