SIMPLEX ES ALARM PANELS

WIRING AND HOOK-UP OPTIONS OVERVIEW

Document Number:

0900-408

Revision Date:

12-June-13

Revision Level:

REVISION HISTORY
The information contained in this document is proprietary to the Tyco Fire Protection
Products, Westminster, Massachusetts, USA, and is intended for internal use only. Such
information may be distributed to others only by written permission of an authorized Tyco
official.
COPYRIGHT 2011-2013 Tyco Fire Protection Products

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REVISION

DATE

DRN/ECO

DESCRIPTION

A
B

03/08/2011
05/12/2011

D11-0003
D11-0008

30-May-12

D12-0009

27-Aug-12

H12-0195

Oct-12-12

D12-0018

01-May-13

D13-0003

12-Jun-13

D13-0007

Initial Revision
Clarify IDNet Conduit requirements (Section 7);
Add BNIC Section (#19) Modify wiring
chart(Section 20)
Added specifications for fiber optic cable, sections
8.2 & 12.1.
Added Isolator notes to General IDNet
Requirements. Secion 7.1.
Removed section TrueAlert non-addressable, as it
was actually all specs for TrueAlert Addressable;
Added IDNAC wiring rules, IDNet1+ and RUI+
Added new modules for RUI+ and IDNAC
Add RP NAC to Glossary; update IDNet shielded,
UTP requirements in section 6.1
Changes per request of Product Management; Main
emphasis-consolidate shielded requirements into
section 19.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1

SCOPE ................................................................................................................................................................... 5

GLOSSARY: ......................................................................................................................................................... 5

REFERENCES ...................................................................................................................................................... 5

PRECEDENCE ..................................................................................................................................................... 6

WIRING PRECAUTIONS ................................................................................................................................... 6

5.1 GENERAL PRECAUTIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 6
5.2 WIRING THAT LEAVES THE BUILDING ................................................................................................................ 7
5.3 TRANSIENT SUPPRESSION ................................................................................................................................... 7
5.3.1
Transient Suppression and AC power: ..................................................................................................... 8
5.3.2
Transient Suppression and Relay IAMs .................................................................................................... 8

IDNET COMMUNICATION LINES ................................................................................................................. 9

6.1
6.2
6.3

GENERAL IDNET REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................................................... 9

IDNET+ REQUIREMENTS (4100-9107, 4100-9108 AND 4010ES)......................................................................... 9
WIRING REQUIREMENTS FOR IDNET+ IN CONDUIT WITH OTHER CIRCUITS...................................................... 10

4120 NETWORK REQUIREMENTS ............................................................................................................... 10

7.1 COPPER LINE CHARACTERISTICS ...................................................................................................................... 10
7.2 FIBER OPTIC CABLE CHARACTERISTICS ............................................................................................................ 11
7.1 FIBER OPTIC CABLE REQUIREMENTS ................................................................................................................ 11
7.2 4120 MODEM REQUIREMENTS .......................................................................................................................... 12
7.2.1
Characteristics For Long Haul Leased Line Telephone Company Circuits ........................................... 12
7.2.2
Characteristics For Short Haul Twisted Pair Circuits ........................................................................... 12

RUI ....................................................................................................................................................................... 13

RUI+ ..................................................................................................................................................................... 13

10

TRUEALERT ADDRESSABLE/IDNAC ......................................................................................................... 13

10.1.1
10.1.2
10.1.3

11

FIBER OPTIC MULTIPLEX MODEM (4100-6063, -6064)........................................................................... 15

11.1

12

Standard Circuit Wiring..................................................................................................................... 13

Un-controlled Impedance Wiring....................................................................................................... 13
Shielded Wiring .................................................................................................................................. 14

FIBER OPTIC CABLE REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................... 15

INITIATING DEVICE WIRING. ..................................................................................................................... 16

12.1
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ZONE WIRING: .............................................................................................. 16
12.2
SPECIFIC WIRING REQUIREMENTS FOR DIFFERENT MONITOR CIRCUITS. ........................................................ 16
12.2.1
4100 monitor Zones ........................................................................................................................... 16
12.2.2
IDNet Monitor ZAM Zone Wiring ................................................................................................... 17
12.2.3
Individual Addressable Modules (IAMs)............................................................................................ 17

13

NOTIFICATION APPLIANCE CIRCUIT AND CONTROL RELAY CONTACT WIRING .................. 17

14

24 POINT I/O (4100-0302, 4605-8401/8402) ..................................................................................................... 17

15

GRAPHIC SCU/RCU (4602-7101) .................................................................................................................... 18

16

RS232 CONNECTIONS ..................................................................................................................................... 18

17

AUDIO AND PHONE WIRING ........................................................................................................................ 19

17.1
17.2
17.3

SPEAKER CIRCUIT WIRING ............................................................................................................................ 19

ANALOG AUDIO RISER WIRING ..................................................................................................................... 19
DIGITAL AUDIO RISER WIRING ..................................................................................................................... 19

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17.4
17.5
17.6

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MUSIC AND NON-ALARM PAGING WIRING (4100U) ...................................................................................... 20

FIREFIGHTER PHONE CIRCUIT WIRING (PHONE RISERS AND PHONE CIRCUITS) ............................................ 20
REMOTE MICROPHONE ................................................................................................................................. 20

18

BNIC ETHERNET ............................................................................................................................................. 20

19

SHIELDED WIRING REQUIREMENTS ....................................................................................................... 21

TABLES
TABLE 5-1: SUPPRESSOR APPLICATIONS ................................................................................................................................... 8
TABLE 7-1: 4120 NETWORK: MAXIMUM TRANSMISSION DISTANCES, WIRED NETWORK .................................................... 10
TABLE 7-2: 4120 NETWORK: MAXIMUM DISTANCES, OPTICAL FIBER .................................................................................... 11
TABLE 7-3: MULTIMODE FIBER REQUIREMENTS MEDIA MODULES ........................................................................................ 12
TABLE 11-1: MULTI AND SINGLE-MODE FIBER REQUIREMENTS MULTIPLEX MODEM ............................................................ 16
TABLE 19-1 SHIELDED WIRING .................................................................................. ERROR! BOOKMARK NOT DEFINED.23

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Scope

This document describes wiring guidelines and restrictions for the field wiring applied to Simplex
ES fire alarm panels. It is intended to be a guide so that unusual or sophisticated applications not
covered by the field wiring drawings/installation instructions can be addressed and engineered. It
supersedes 900-242, Field Wiring Specifications for Simplex Addressable Fire Alarm Panels. The
900-242 superseded the 900-082 Field Wiring Specifications for 4100 /4120/ 4010 Fire Alarm
Panels. Both the above mentioned documents may contain information applicable to this
document.

The document is organized by circuit type, with a general guideline section in front. The intent is
that any fire panel that uses a circuit type would be covered by that section. For example, the
IDNet+ section would cover both 4010ES IDNet and 4100 IDNet+ applications. Any panel
specific requirements will be delineated in the respective section.
All specifications are subject to local authority approval.

Glossary:

4100U: 4100 Upgrade. Successor to the 4100 Classic and 4100 Legacy system
FWD: Field Wiring Drawings
IDC: Initiating Device Circuit.
IDNAC: 2nd generation addressable notification SLC (TrueAlert)
IDNet: addressable SLC for up to 250 addressable devices.
IDNet+: IDNet which is electrically isolated from internal panel electronics
NAC: Notification Appliance Circuit. Formerly called signal circuit.
Audio NAC: A notification appliance circuit used to control conventional speakers
RP (DC) NAC: Notification appliance circuit using only reverse polarity to activate
conventional DC appliances (e.g. horns, bells, strobes, etc)
RUI: Remote Unit Interface. SLC for expanding 4100 communications to remote cabinets.
RUI+ : an electrically isolated RUI SLC
SLC: Signaling Line Circuit. Supervision by communications rather than fixed resistance.
STP: Shielded Twisted Pair
TrueAlert: a signaling line circuit with addressable Notification Appliances (TAA)
UTP: Unshielded Twisted Pair
Smart Sync: Control of horns and strobes on a single pair of wires.

References

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900-408, RevG
574-848
0841-905
0842-068
0842-158
0842-058
0842-063
0842-073
0900-082
0900-225
0900-242
0970-353

4100U/4100ES Installation Guide

4009 Field Wiring Diagram
4009 IDNet NAC Extender Field Wiring Diagram
4009 TrueAlert Controller Field Wiring Diagram
4010 Field Wiring Diagram
4605 Annunciator Field Wiring Diagram
IDNet Devices Field Wiring Diagram
Field Wiring Specifications for 4100/4120/4010 Fire Alarm Panels
4120 Leased Line Modem Communications
Field Wiring Specifications for Addressable Fire Alarm Panels
FS Wiring Specifications Test Plan

NFPA 70
NFPA 72

National Electric Code

National Fire Alarm Code

5.1

Precedence

In the event of conflict between this document and local authorities, the local authorities
take precedence.
In the event of conflict between this document and NFPA 70, National Electric Code, or
NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code, NFPA 70 and 72 take precedence.
In the event of conflict between this document and the field wiring diagrams, Engineering
should be consulted.
In the event of conflict between this document and 0900-242, Field Wiring Specifications
for Simplex Addressable Fire Alarm Panels, this document takes precedence. The 0900242 has been superseded effective with the release of this document.

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Wiring Precautions

General Precautions

All metallic wiring to have copper conductors.

If shielded wire is used the following must be observed:
o Metallic continuity of the shield must be maintained throughout the entire length of
cable.
o The entire length of cable must have a resistance greater than 1 megohm to earth
ground..
All wiring must meet National Electrical Code (NFPA-70) requirements.

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5.2

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Wiring That Leaves the Building

Twisted shielded cable must be used.

Underground conduit must be dry. If there is any possibility of water in the conduit, direct
burial cable must be used.
Conduits must not run directly into 4100U cabinets. Entry/Exit must be made via a
separate 4" square (min) metal box. There must be 2" space (min) between incoming and
outgoing conduits and wiring.
The I/O box must be mounted as close as practicable to the point where the conduit enters
the building.
The appropriate suppressor is placed inside the I/O box and the suppressor ground wire
bonded to the box..
The I/O box must be bonded to the grounding electrode system for the power distribution
of the building containing the protected equipment. The bonding wire:
o Must be as short as possible with a maximum allowed length of 25 ft.
o Must have no bends greater than 90 and less than 2" radius.
o Must be 12AWG or larger
5.3

Transient Suppression

Transient suppression is required where wire leaves the building and re-enters the
next building. Suppression is required regardless if wiring is overhead, aerial or
underground.
The suppression must be bonded to the grounding electrode system per Section 6.2.
Transient suppressors add capacitance and resistance to the circuits they are added
to and therefore must be included in line resistance and capacitance calculations.
o Each 2081-9027 and 2081-9044 adds 0.006uF across the lines and 3 ohms
per line (6 ohms total).
o Each 2081-9028 adds 0.017uF across the lines and adds 0.1 ohm per line
(0.2 ohms total).
Wiring which is installed external to a building must be protected by overvoltage
protectors.
Two suppressors should be installed on circuits installed external to a building, one
where the circuit exits the building, and one where the circuit re-enters another
building.

The suppressors in table #6-1 are recommended for the circuits listed and are UL497B listed.
Table 5-1: Suppressor Applications per the UL1459 Standard:
Suppressor

Circuits Protected

2081-9044

RUI
4120 Network
ZAM Power
Local energy city circuit

Additional Restrictions
Reduce maximum line distance by 1000 feet for first two
suppressors; Each additional reduces distance by 500 feet.
2 Suppressors maximum in any point to point link
200 mA maximum; 3270 feet maximum distance.
(4100 and 4010) Minimum wire size 18AWG

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Suppressor

Circuits Protected
IDNet

4010 N2 Comms
IDNAC
TrueAlert SLC

2081-9044

4100U & 4010 polarity

reversing city circuit
IDNAC
TrueAlert SLC
Phone/Audio risers

2081-9028

MAPNET ZAM zone

connections
4100 monitor zones
Signal/audio circuits

2081-9028

2081-9044

IDNet Monitor ZAM zone

IDNet Sup. IAM zone

Page 8 of 23

Additional Restrictions
Maximum distance 2500 feet for first two suppressors. Using
two additional suppressors will reduce the maximum line
distance by 1000 feet.
Maximum distance 2500 feet for first two suppressors. Using
two additional suppressors will reduce the maximum line
distance by 1000 feet.
200 mA maximum current, 2500 feet total length on branch
with suppressor. 6 ohms of line resistance must be accounted
for in voltage drop calculations.
Do not mix with 2081-9028. Max 2 suppressors on a branch.
Minimum wire size 20 AWG
1000 feet total length on branch with suppressor. Do not mix
with 2081-9044. Max 2 suppressors on a branch.
25V Audio Only; Contact Engineering or Sales Engineering
for 70V applications
Maximum distance reduced to 4 ohms total when two
suppressors are used.
25V Audio Only; Contact Engineering or Sales Engineering
for 70V applications
Maximum distance 1400 ft; min wire size 18 AWG.
Maximum distance 400 ft; min wire size 18 AWG.

Table 5-1: Suppressor Applications

Note: Each 2081-9044 adds 6 ohms of line resistance to the circuit, in addition to the resistance of
the wire used. It is rated for 200 mA continuous current, and has a 1A fuse.
Each 2081-9028 adds 0.2ohms of line resistance to the circuit and is rated for 5A continuous
current. It has a 7A fuse.
5.3.1 Transient Suppression and AC power:
The AC power input of all Fire Alarm Equipment is subjected to an estimated 50 years of surges as
defined by Category A of the IEEE C62-41-1991. As such, the equipment is designed to operate
properly, and does not require additional suppression on the incoming AC power if it is powered
by a Long Branch Circuit. This is a circuit that is located at least 30ft (10 meters) from a major
power distribution center. Equipment located close to main power distributions may require
additional protection on the incoming power.

120VAC circuits that require suppression may use AC Suppressor, PN 0463-029.

220/240VAC circuits that need additional suppression may use any appropriately rated
(IEEE C62-41-1991 Category B) 240V suppressor. It should be UL1449 listed.
5.3.2

Transient Suppression and Relay IAMs

If relay IAMs are used to switch 120VAC, the power source to the contacts should be externally
fused by the user with a 1 Amp 250V quick blow fuse, UL listed to Guide #JDYX- Littlefuse
AGC1 or Equivalent. If switching inductive loads, the loads must be suppressed with a suitable

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suppression device. While it is preferred this be done by the manufacturer of the device, the loads
may suppressed by adding a device directly across the coil as follows:

120VAC:
o 0560-040 RC Network
24VDC:
o 0184-011-1N4004 Diode

6
6.1

IDNet Communication Lines

General IDNet requirements

Note: In the following, the term "IDNet channel" is used to mean those lines connected to any one
IDNet Transceiver board ( SPS or IDNet card on 4100U). Parallel runs from the same board do not
constitute separate channels. The term "continuous run" refers to the distance from the panel to the
furthest device when wired Class B. When wired Class A, this is the distance from the primary
output, through all devices and back to the secondary output.
Except for the requirements of Section 19, Shielded wire is no longer needed for IDNet.
Twisted pair is always required for non-isolated IDNet.
A load circuit of up to 10 amps at 240VAC, 50 or 60 Hz, is allowed in the same conduit.
No more than .60f of total capacitance (if shielded, use wire to shield parameter) is
allowed on any IDNet channel. These ratings are inclusive of added transient suppressors,
refer to Section 5.
Maximum resistance for ONE continuous IDNet run (inclusive of added transient
suppressors):
o 35 Ohms with up to 250 IDNet devices on IDNet channel.
o 50 Ohms for up to 125 IDNet devices on IDNet channel
Twisted, shielded pair is required for any IDNet channels run in 500 or more of conduit.
When Line powered Isolators or Isolator Bases are used, maximum line resistance between
Panel and 1st Isolator, and Isolator to Isolator is 10 ohms (780 ft @ 18 AWG).
6.2 IDNet+ requirements (4100-9107, 4100-9108 and 4010ES)
Note: In the following paragraphs the term "IDNet+ channel" is used to mean those lines connected to
all (4) circuits of the IDNet+ (4100-9107) (e.g. Circuit A, Circuit B, Circuit), 4100-3108 (4x5
IDNet1+) and the 4010ES IDNet. Parallel runs from the same board do not constitute separate
channels. The term "continuous run" refers to the distance from the panel to the furthest device when
wired Class B. When wired Class A, this is the distance from the primary output, through all devices
and back to the secondary output.
No more than .60f of total capacitance (if shielded, use wire to wire parameter) is allowed
on any IDNet channel. These ratings are inclusive of added transient suppressors, refer to
Section 5.2.
Maximum resistance for ONE continuous IDNet+ run (per Circuit, inclusive of added
transient suppressors):
o 35 Ohms with up to 250 IDNet devices on IDNet channel.
o 50 Ohms for up to 125 IDNet devices on IDNet channel
Maximum capacitance from IDNet+ (+) of one channel to IDNet+ (+) of another channel is
1f.

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Maximum capacitance from IDNet+ (-) of one channel to IDNet+ (-) of another channel is
1f.

6.3 Wiring Requirements for IDNet+ In Conduit with Other Circuits

The following list details the type of wiring that may be used for circuits that are mixed with
IDNet + in a conduit.
RP (DC) NAC
Any NEC 760 wire meeting applicable circuit parameters

(Ref. section 13)

Analog Audio Riser
UTP
Digital Audio Riser
UTP
4100U Speaker NAC
UTP
(Other) Speaker NAC
UTP
Remote Microphone
STP
Firefighter's Telephones
STP
RS-232
STP
TrueAlert/IDNACSLC
Any NEC 760 wire (UTP recommended, see section 10)
RUI
UTP
RUI+
UTP
(Another) IDNet+ Channel Any NEC 760 wire meeting circuit parameters (Ref. 6.1, 6.2)
Network Communications UTP on Network only

7
7.1

4120 NETWORK Requirements

Copper Line Characteristics

Except for the requirements of Section 19, 4120 Network wiring should be 18 AWG
twisted, pair, or 24AWG twisted pair (Telephone Cable). Shielded Cable is allowed for
new installations.
When shielding is used, the shield shall be connected to Earth Ground, at the Left Port end
of span only.
All Network wiring must meet National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements.
No T-tapping of the Network conductors is allowed.
Network wiring is point-to-point only.
Maximum line length between ports at 57,600 and 9600 bits per second is shown in the table
below.
Network Speed

57,600 bps
9600 bps

18 Gauge TP Wire.
Maximum capacitance between
conductors: 58 pf. per foot
10,000 feet
17,000 feet

24 Gauge TP Wire.
Maximum capacitance between
conductors: 22 pf. per foot
7,000 feet
12,000 feet

Table 7-1: 4120 Network: Maximum Transmission Distances, Wired Network

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7.2

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Fiber Optic Cable Characteristics

Note: this section refers only to the fiber limitations of the fiber media modules that attach to a
network interface card. For the Fiber Optic Multiplex Modem, refer to section 11.
All fiber cables shall be multimode, graded index. ST style connectors must be used.
No physical strain shall be put on the cables.
There must be no cable bends of less than a two inch radius.
The fiber backbone must comply with, at a minimum, ANSI/TIA/EIA 568-B-3 industry
standards.
Two methods are available for joining fiber cable. Both methods are allowed on a fiber
4120 Network:
o Splices provide a permanent, very low loss, fiber-to-fiber connection and should
only be performed by experienced personnel.
o Couplers provide temporary connection between two ST style connectors with a
loss of 1.2dB.
The characteristics of the 4100-0143 or 4100-6057 fiber optic media card are as follows.
o Maximum attenuation (inclusive of all cabling losses, connector losses, splice
losses, and safety margin):
50/125 cable is 17dB
62.5/125 cable is 20.4dB
Maximum line lengths for 50/125 and 62.5/125 cable with 2 different specified losses per
kilometer are shown in the table below.
Fiber Cable
50/125 Fiber
50/125 Fiber
62.5/125 Fiber
62.5/125 Fiber

Loss Per Kilometer

4 db
3 db
4 db
3.75 db

Power Margin
4 db
3 db
4 db
3 db

Maximum distance
10,000 feet
15,000 feet
13,000 feet
15,000 feet

Table 7-2: 4120 Network: Maximum Distances, Optical Fiber

All the information above is based on the minimum launch power of the transmitter into the
specified cable and the maximum value of the minimum input sensitivity of the receiver. For a
complete list of fiber cables and their transmission distances, refer to document 900-143, "Fiber
Optic System Tutorial and Installation Recommendations."
7.1 Fiber Optic Cable Requirements
The fiber optic cabling must be compliant with TIA-EIA-568-B. Note that this standard defines
outside plant as Telecommunications infrastructure designed for installation exterior to
buildings.

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The outside plant fiber must comply with ANSI/ICEA S-87-640, and inside plant fiber must
comply with ANSI/ICEA S-83-596. Additionally, it must meet the specifications in the following
table for attenuation and bandwidth for the given fiber type and wavelength.
Optical fiber cable
type

Wavelength
(nm)

Maximum
attenuation
(dB/km)

Minimum bandwidth
capacity for
overfilled launch

50/125 m
Multimode

850

3.5

500

62.5/125 m
Multimode

850

3.5

160

Table 7-3: Multimode fiber requirements media modules

The fiber must be either 50/125 m or 62.5/125 m graded-index multimode fiber. Individual
fibers and groups of fibers must be identifiable in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA -598-A. The
cable must be listed and marked as required under the applicable electrical code and local
building code requirements.

7.2

4120 Modem Requirements

Modems should only be used on a 4120 network on a Physical Bridge card. Network spans using
modems are discouraged. Under no circumstances should more than a single span (2 modems) in a
network loop be over modem communications.
7.2.1

Characteristics For Long Haul Leased Line Telephone Company Circuits

Telephone circuits must be private leased lines for analog data communications, point to point,
full duplex, no line conditioning or signaling required, two wire line interface with RJ-11
termination.
7.2.2

Characteristics For Short Haul Twisted Pair Circuits

The modems may be connected directly to one another using twisted pair
copper wire. Unshielded #24 AWG twisted pair wire may be used for direct point to point
communications up to 15,000 feet. Shielded wire may be used in noisy environments. The
shield should only be terminated to earth at one end of the line. The maximum capacitance
must be limited to 22pf per foot.

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RUI

General Requirements for RUI wiring:

Except for the requirements of Section 19, UTP (unshielded twisted pair) wiring may be used.
Maximum cable capacitance of .58uf between conductors and/or 35 ohms total line
resistance, inclusive of added transient suppressors, refer to Section 5.2.
For class B wiring the maximum line length (18 AWG or larger pair) is 2500 feet for one
continuous run, with 10,000 feet maximum total if T-tapping is done.
For class A and/or style 7 wiring, the maximum length is 2500 feet from the Comm A
terminals, through the Class A loop, terminating at the Comm B terminals.

RUI+

General Requirements for RUI+ wiring:

UTP wiring is recommended. Should meet parameters listed below

Maximum cable capacitance of .58uf between conductors and/or 35 ohms total line
resistance, inclusive of added transient suppressors, refer to Section 5.2.
For class B wiring the maximum line length (18 AWG or larger pair) is 2500 feet for one
continuous run, with 10,000 feet maximum total if T-tapping is done.
For class A and/or style 7 wiring, the maximum length is 2500 feet from the Comm A
terminals, through the Class A loop, terminating at the Comm B terminals.

10 TrueAlert Addressable/IDNAC
This section gives recommendations for wiring TrueAlert/IDNAC circuits. TrueAlert Addressable,
or TAA, refers to TPS and 4009T SLCs. IDNAC refers to EPS and 4009 Repeater SLCs. IDNAC
is rated for longer distances. Refer to the Installation Instructions / Field Wiring Drawing for the
controller/power supply that you are using for wire size and length limitations due to circuit style,
alarm current loading, and communication circuit unit loading. If there is conflict between these
recommendations and the install instructions requirements, the install instruction takes precedence.
10.1.1 Standard Circuit Wiring
Except for the requirements of Section 19, the preferred media for TAA/IDNAC circuits is
unshielded twisted pair (UTP) wiring. This wiring must have a capacitive rating of less than
60pf/ft and minimum 3 twists (turns) per foot.The insulation rating must be appropriate for the
application. Refer to the installation documents for the TAA/IDNAC controller you are using for
specific wiring distances for each controller or repeater.
10.1.2 Un-controlled Impedance Wiring
Although TrueAlert & IDNAC circuits are intended to run twisted pair (controlled impedance)
wiring, some applications will wish to take advantage of existing wiring that is not twisted pair.

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This is only allowed if both conductors of the TAA/IDNAC circuit reside in the same metal
conduit, and only under the conditions listed in this section.
A single TAA/IDNAC circuit may run on up to 1000 feet of non-twisted pair wiring if that
TrueAlert circuit is the only active circuit in the same conduit. This distance includes all T-Taps
and wire branches for Style 4 (Class B). This distance applies to the entire loop run (B terminals
to A terminals) for Style 6 (Class A).
The following recommendations apply to TrueAlert circuits run in a single conduit on non-paired
wiring with other circuits also on non-paired wiring the in the same conduit. Maximum shared
distances include all T-Taps and wire branches sharing the conduit with the other circuit(s) for
Style 4 (Class B) TrueAlert circuits.
A TrueAlert circuit with another TrueAlert circuit(s) 500 max wire run length shared
with any combination of the other circuit(s). Maximum 3 TrueAlert circuits in the conduit.
A TrueAlert circuit with IDNet/MAPNET II circuits 250 max length shared with any
combination of the other circuit(s). Maximum 3 TrueAlert circuits and 1 IDNet/MAPNET
circuit in the conduit.
A TrueAlert circuit with IDNet+ 500 max length shared with any combination of the
other circuit(s). Maximum 3 TrueAlert circuits and circuits in the conduit. You may go the
maximum conduit length of 1000 with a single TrueAlert channel and IDNet+.
A TrueAlert circuit with Simplex Fire Alarm NAC (24V/2Amp) loaded with Strobes,
Horns, Doorholders, or Incandescent bulb loads 500 max wire run length shared with
any combination of the other circuit(s). Maximum 3 total circuits in the conduit.
A TrueAlert circuit with a 120Vac circuit with max 100VA load 500 max wire run
length shared with the 120Vac circuit. Maximum 3 TrueAlert circuits and (1) 120Vac
circuit in the conduit.
No other circuit combinations are recommended when operating TrueAlert circuits on nonpaired wiring.
10.1.3 Shielded Wiring
When using shielded wire for TrueAlert/IDNAC SLCs, the following rules must be followed:
The shielded cable only contains a single active wire pair: the TrueAlert SLC. The cable may
contain other wire pairs enclosed by the shield only if those pairs are disconnected from any
electrical signal generator.
Shielded twisted pair (STP) and un-shielded twisted pair (UTP) are not mixed on the same
TrueAlert SLC.
The shields of all branches, T-taps, or the entire Class A loop must be connected to the
negative return of the circuit at the TrueAlert controller. Note that each end of the shielded

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Class A loop is connected to the B(-) and A(-) terminals, respectively. The only exception to
this is described in Transient Suppression, 5.3.
The 10,000 foot total cable rating is limited to STP cable with a maximum capacitive rating of
60pf/ft between a conductor and both the other conductor(s) and the shield. Where the 60pf/ft
specification is exceeded, the total cable rating must be de-rated by the fraction formed by
60/(per foot cap. rating). For instance, a cable rated 100 pf/ft decreases the total foot cable
rating of that TrueAlert SLC to 10,000 x 60/100, or 6,000 feet.

11 Fiber Optic Multiplex Modem (4100-6063, -6064)

The wired interfaces to the modem are all close nippled except for the three listed below. Refer to
the respective sections for each of these media for specifications.

Network Communications Right Port

Analog Audio X-links
RUI X-link

The table below lists the fiber optic specifications of the modem.
Fiber Cable
Single-mode fiber
Multimode fiber2

Max Attenuation
15dB
6dB

Max Link Distance

Limited by attenuation only1
5,000 feet

Notes:
1. The maximum attenuation for SMF should have the desired power margin (recommended
min: 3dB) subtracted, then the remaining attenuation can be divided between connector and
fiber loss (e.g. 15dB-3dB=12dB. Fiber of 0.34dB/km and no splices yields
12/0.34=35.3km).
2. Single-mode fiber is preferred in all applications.
3. No more than three splices should be used in a given linkfor multimode fiber.
4. All multimode fiber must be graded index (GRIN).
5. The modem operates at 1310nm and 1550nm wavelengths. Typical fiber attenuation at the
time of this publication at these wavelengths is single-mode: 0.34dB/km, multimode:
1dB/km.
6. Attenuation measurements should be taken using a 1300nm/1310nm source.
11.1 Fiber Optic Cable Requirements
The fiber optic cabling must be compliant with, at a minimum, TIA-EIA-568-B. Note that this
standard defines outside plant as Telecommunications infrastructure designed for installation
exterior to buildings.
The outside plant fiber must comply with ANSI/ICEA S-87-640, and inside plant fiber must
comply with ANSI/ICEA S-83-596. Additionally, it must meet the specifications in the following
table for attenuation and bandwidth for the given fiber type and wavelength.

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Optical fiber cable
type

Wavelength
(nm)

Page 16 of 23

Maximum
attenuation
(dB/km)

Minimum
bandwidth capacity
for overfilled launch

50/125 m
Multimode

1300

1.5

500

62.5/125 m
Multimode

1300

1.5

500

1310

1.0

N/A

1550

1.0

N/A

1310

0.5

N/A

1550

0.5

N/A

Single-mode
inside plant cable
Single-mode
outside plant cable

Table 11-1: Multi and Single-mode fiber requirements multiplex modem

The fiber must be either 50/125 m or 62.5/125 m graded-index multimode fiber or singlemode optical fiber. Individual fibers and groups of fibers must be identifiable in accordance
with ANSI/TIA/EIA -598-A. The cable must be listed and marked as required under the
applicable electrical code and local building code requirements.

12 Initiating Device Wiring.

12.1 General requirements for zone wiring:

Any NEC 760 wire may be used which meets parameters for IDCs listed below.
All initiating device wiring should be a minimum of 18 AWG wire, and a maximum of 12
AWG (or the maximum supported by the terminal block, whichever is less).
Simplex 4100 audio is allowed in the same conduit.
A load greater than 10 amps, 120 VAC, inductive is not allowed in the same conduit.
Initiating device wiring must have a resistance greater than 1 megohm to earth ground.
For Monitor zones or ZAMs with smoke detectors:
If two wire detectors with relays or auxiliary terminals are used, relay operation cannot be
guaranteed unless it is the only device on that zone.
Maximum of one detector in alarm can be guaranteed per zone.
12.2 Specific wiring requirements for different monitor circuits.

12.2.1 4100 monitor Zones

The maximum distance supported by 4100 monitor cards is 10,000 feet or 50 ohms,
whichever comes first. Class A circuits have a maximum of 10,000 feet of total distance
(5,000 feet to the farthest device), or 50 ohms, whichever comes first.

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For circuits with 2 wire smoke detectors 50 ohms is the maximum line resistance. For
circuits with dry contacts 800 ohms is the maximum line resistance.

12.2.2 IDNet Monitor ZAM Zone Wiring

For either normally open contacts or 2 wire detectors the maximum distance for the IDNet
Monitor ZAM zone is 2,000 feet or 10 ohms, whichever comes first.

12.2.3 Individual Addressable Modules (IAMs)

IDNet IAM (4090-9001)The IDNet IAM only supports normally open contacts. The
maximum wiring distance is 500 feet.

13 Notification Appliance Circuit and Control Relay Contact Wiring

General requirements and signal descriptions are as follows:

Except for the requirements of Section 19, any NEC 760 wire meeting circuit parameters
listed below may be used.
Maximum current, maximum wiring distance, and ratings for all notification (signal)
circuits and control relays can be found in the applicable field wiring diagrams or
installation instructions. The minimum wire size connected to control relay or auxiliary
relay contacts must adhere to National Electrical Code NFPA 70.
The maximum wire size is 12 AWG or the terminal block rating, whichever is lower.
The maximum distances are defined in the applicable Installation Instructions.
Wheelock protocol circuits must follow the same wiring restrictions as SmartSync.

14 24 POINT I/O (4100-0302, 4605-8401/8402)

General requirements on 24 I/O wiring are:

Any NEC 760 wire meeting circuit parameters listed below may be used.
All 24 I/O wiring must be a minimum of 18 AWG. The maximum wire size is 12 AWG or
the terminal block specification, whichever is smaller.
Switch input: maximum one way distance 400 feet on unshielded wire.
Lamp output: maximum one way distance 400 feet on unshielded wire.
No AC wiring allowed in the same conduit. Exception: System power. Cable to I/Os
must be twisted. Maximum distance 400 feet on unshielded wire.
Distance with Shielded wire:
o Switch input: maximum one way distance 2500 feet.
o Lamp output: maximum one way distance 600 feet or 2 ohms total whichever
comes first.
o If shielded wire is used, connect shield to 0V of module power source.

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15 GRAPHIC SCU/RCU (4602-7101)

General requirements on SCU/RCU Graphic Driver Output/Switch Input Connections are as
follows:
Any NEC 760 wire meeting circuit parameters, below may be used.
Close nipple wiring only.
12 AWG maximum (terminal spec).
Maximum distance 20 feet or 1 ohm, whichever comes first.
Wires must be run in conduit containing graphic wiring only.

16 RS232 Connections (4100-6046, 4010-9918)

General description and requirements for RS232 Signals are as follows:

STP wiring is required

The 4100 RS232 signals are +/- 9 V DC at 1200-9600 baud.
When bringing remote DC power to Simplex approved DC printers the maximum
resistance in the power supply lines is 2 ohms total. This results in maximum wire pair
distances of 150 feet for 18AWG, 250 feet for 16AWG, 395 feet for 14AWG and 635 feet
for 12AWG.
Communications line parameters for Simplex approved CRT's, 120 VAC printers and
locally powered DC printers are (two 18 AWG twisted shielded pairs assumed):
o 1200 baud: .06uf or 2500 feet, whichever comes first.
o 4800 baud: .015uf or 600 feet, whichever comes first.
o 9600 baud: .01uf or 300 feet, whichever comes first.
Lines cannot be run with 120 VAC or loads greater than 5 amps. Exception is power for
unit.
For Simplex approved CRT's, 120 VAC printers and locally powered DC printers (DC
power from a power supply next to the printer) connecting to a 4010-9811/9812, 4 wires
are required for a CRT, and 3 for a printer.
Communications line parameters for Simplex approved CRT's, 120 VAC printers and
locally powered DC printers connecting to a 4010-9811/9812 are (three or four 18 AWG
twisted shielded pairs assumed):
o 1200 baud: .042uF or 1300 feet, whichever comes first.
o 2400 baud: .026uF or 800 feet, whichever comes first.
o 4800 baud: .016uF or 500 feet, whichever comes first.
o 9600 baud: .010uF or 300 feet, whichever comes first.
o 19200 baud: .010uF or 300 feet, whichever comes first.
o 38400 baud: .010uF or 300 feet, whichever comes first.
Lines cannot be run with 120 VAC or loads greater than 5 amps. Exception is power for
unit.
For PC based Peripherals communicating via RS-232 (TWS, PC Annunciator, etc.),
o STP required.
o Maximum allowed wire length is 50ft for peripherals based on PCs by others,
300ft with peripherals based on a PC supplied by TSP.

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17 Audio and Phone Wiring

The maximum allowable voltages in same conduit are 70Vrms or 30V DC in metallic conduit or
with shielded cable.
17.1 Speaker circuit wiring
The general requirements for speaker circuit wiring are:

Except for the requirements of Section 19, UTP wiring is required, #18 AWG minimum.
Speaker circuit wiring distances can be found in the applicable field wiring drawings or
installation instructions.

17.2 Analog Audio riser wiring

The general requirements for audio riser (driven from a riser amplifier on Legacy systems, and
directly from the Audio Controller on 4100U systems) wiring are:
UTP wiring is required, #18 AWG minimum
Low voltage risers (4100-1210) must have their shields (if used) connected to 0V (shield
terminal) on the audio card. If the Audio riser is run outside, then use Earth for the shield
by connecting the drain wire to a mounting screw in the box.
Maximum Distance 10,000 ft with #18 AWG (minimum).
17.3 Digital Audio riser wiring
The requirements for 4100U digital audio riser are:
Twisted pair is required - #18 AWG is recommended. There are two modes of operation
with the DAR. The modes correspond to the length of the communications lines between
cabinets: Less than 500ft and Greater than 500 ft. The mode is jumper selectable on
the newer CRC DAR Interface card.
Less than 500 ft mode: Should be used if the distance between nodes is less than 500 ft.
The capacitance of the cable used must not exceed .02uF. Shielded or unshielded
(preferred) cable may be used. If shielded is used , shield to be connected to cabinet
ground at transmit (DAR Controller Primary, Remote DAR Secondary) output only. As
always, the .02uF total capacitance requirement applies.
Greater than 500ft mode: Should be used if the distance between nodes is more than 500
ft. Total capacitance may not exceed .055uF. If existing shielded wire is used (retrofit
applications) it may be used at reduced lengths (see below). A shield must be used
(connected to Earth) for wire that leaves buildings, however, for suppression of
external/lightning transients.
Maximum 18AWG Unshielded Twisted Pair distance is 2500 feet point to point. This
requires very low capacitance cable (less than 22pf/ft) in order to meet the
capacitance requirement of .055uF maximum. Subsequent Digital Audio Riser Nodes
may also be 2500 feet point to point. When using older Digital Audio Riser Interface Cards

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(566-243, non CRC cards) the maximum line distance is 2500 feet, total (not point to point)
following the same rules as the point-to-point distance.
Maximum 18AWG STP distance is 1000 feet point to point. This requires cable of less
than 55pF/ft line to line for .055uF or less at 1000 ft. When using older Digital Audio
Riser Interface Cards (566-243, non CRC cards) the maximum line distance is 1000 feet,
total (not point to point) following the same rules as the point-to-point distance. One
exception for the 1000 feet limit is Mineral Insulated Cable (Pyrotenax 2/18-215T). It has
been tested and complies up to a 2000-foot distance.
Maximum resistance is 40 (point to point for newer DARICS, total for older DARICS
[566-243]).
If a shield is used (for retrofit applications), connect the shield to earth through a mounting
screw at the transmit end of each leg. (Digital Audio Controller- Primary cable; Remote
cabinets-Secondary cable.) The shield may also be floating.

17.4 Music and non-alarm paging wiring (4100U)

The general requirements for music wiring are:
Access to Non-Alarm paging and music equipment and controls should be limited to those
in authority to make adjustments.
Maximum signal input 70% of the rated input voltage. (line level, 25Vrms or 70Vrms
depending on input configuration). Input card is to be adjusted to ensure that the output
voltage (HF supervision tone + non-alarm signals) is no more than the rated output voltage
the amplifier.
Minimum signal input required to maintain supervision none
Minimum signal input required to turn on the speaker circuits 30% of the rated input.
17.5 Firefighter Phone circuit wiring (Phone Risers and Phone Circuits)
The general requirements for phone circuit wiring are:
Twisted shielded wire required.
Connect drain wire to phone card shield (0V) terminal.
Maximum of 7 phones on line at one time (includes master phone).
Maximum distances for phone circuit wiring (one way) are:
3,500 ft. with #18 AWG
5,500 ft. with #16 AWG
8,800 ft. with #14 AWG
14000ft with #12 AWG
17.6 Remote Microphone
The general requirements for remote microphone wiring are:
Maximum one way distance 4500 feet.
18 AWG minimum.
Twisted shielded pair required for microphone wires and two 18 AWG minimum wires for
"push to talk" (total 5 conductors).

18 BNIC Ethernet
The BNIC signal is standard 10/100 Ethernet. General requirements are:

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10/100Base-T connection
Cable: Cat 5 (or greater)
Connectors: RJ45
Maximum length-100 Meters (328 ft)
Intended to be connected via customers LAN
Cable not to be extended outside the host building directly from BNIC
The BNIC supports Auto-MDIX (Straight or Crossover cable can be connected to the
BNIC, the BNIC will automatically switch as needed)
Do not connect Power over Ethernet (PoE) signals to the BNIC.
Port A has Earth Fault Detection on the LAN wires.
Generally, Port B should be used to connect to customer building network, although Port A
can also be used (be sure the signal you are connecting is not PoE).

19 Shielded Wiring Requirements

19.1 General Requirements
The following signals must always use Shielded Twisted pairs:

Circuits Run Outside (only outside wiring must be shielded)

Microphone
Firefighters Phone
Music by others (NACs using 25V Constant Supervision Module)
RS-232
Circuits in conduit or bundled with Non-isolated IDNet or RUI:
o IDNAC
o TrueAlert Addressable SLCs (TPS/4009T)
o SmartSync
o RP (DC) NAC
Note: Only one of the two circuits needs to use STP, the other may use UTP. This
applies to more than 2 circuits as well: 2of 3 must use STP with one circuit allowed
UTP, etc.

19.2 How to use Table 19-1

Table 19-1 shows when shielded wire must be used. It applies when any of the listed signals are run
in 500 or more of conduit, and the corresponding signal is also in conduit (does not have to be the
same conduit.) Both signals do not need to be in 500 of conduit. A ground fault or test by an AHJ of
operation while grounded may increase the coupling between circuits to a level that could cause
interference. If any of the signals listed will be in 500 or more of conduit, and any of the other
signals are used in a system, the table applies.

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Table 19-1 also applies if cables are not in conduit but are bundled closely together for 500 ft or more.
To use the table, select the signal in the leftmost column and compare it to the cell that corresponds to
the signal being mixed in the top row. STP= Shielded Twisted Pair; UTP=Unshielded Twisted Pair

Example: A system will have at least 500ft of conduit containing RUI and/or IDNet. From the table,
the RUI must use STP, and the IDNet must use STP. When there are two circuits, both of which
require STP, one may be wired with UTP if desired (see note below table).
NOTES:
Notice the requirement changes to UTP if IDNet+ (4100-3107, -3108 or 4010ES) is used
instead of IDNet.
IDNAC refers to TrueAlert Addressable circuits on the 4100 EPS or the 4009 IDNAC
Repeater. TAA refers to circuits on the TPS or the 4009T.
ES audio NAC refers to 4100U or 4100ES NACs and 4100U/ES amplifiers. For older voice
NACs, refer to the older field wiring specs.
SmartSync is AKA TrueAlert non-addressable. The same wiring restrictions also apply to
Wheelock protocol NACs.

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Table 19-1: Wiring Requirements for Mixed Circuits in Conduit or Closely Bundled(3)
Mix With> IDNet /
Signal \/
RUI
IDNet /
STP(1)
RUI
IDNet+/
UTP
RUI+

IDNet+ /
RUI+

IDNAC

TAA
TPS/4009T

Smart
Sync

RP (DC)
NAC

Analog
Riser

DAR

4120
Net

ES Audio
NAC

UTP

STP(1)

STP(1)

STP(1)

STP(1)

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

IDNAC

STP(1)

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

TAA (TPS/
4009T)
Smart
Sync
RP (DC)
NAC
Analog
Riser

STP(1)

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

STP(1)

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

STP(1)

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

DAR

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

4120 Net

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

ES Audio
NAC(2)

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

UTP

(1)When STP shows as being required for circuits being evaluated and both circuits show STP
needed, only one of the two needs to use STP. The other may use UTP. This applies to more than
2 circuits as well: 2of 3 must use STP with one circuit allowed UTP, etc.
(2) Any Audio NACs using the 25V Constant Supervision Module (4100-1259) must use STP
wiring with the shield connected to system 0v.
(3) All circuits run Outdoors require STP wiring and Transient Suppression in accordance with
Chapter 5.