Addressable fire alarm systems allow individual alarm devices to be identified at the control panel. Devices connect to the same circuit but still maintain supervision. Each device requires an addressable module with a unique identification number programmed in. Common devices have built-in modules while specialty devices require separate input modules. Addressable systems also have output modules to activate devices like horns and strobes. However, modules are typically not cross-compatible between vendors.

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What Is "Addressable"?
Addressable systems allow multiple alarm initiating devices to be connected to the same circuit and be annunciated individually at the control unit. The devices
can be parallel wired and t-tapped and still maintain the integrity of the circuit. (Output circuits (horns/strobes) must still be wired the conventional way).
Addressable systems are common in fire alarm (and burglar alarm) systems. They are also known as polling loop or multiplex systems.
Typical Addressable System
Conventional vs. Addressable
Conventional systems will have multiple devices connected to a single zone. When a single device goes into alarm, the panel only indicates there is an alarm on
that zone. Each device must be checked to see where the alarm initiated.
Since addressable systems identify and annuciate each device individually, locating the alarm location is very simple.
There is not a code requirement that addressable systems be used in specific applications. it is usually a decision by the fire alarm designer/installer (and
sometime the AHJ). Addressable systems offer faster identification of alarm location. This can be especially critical in larger installations.
Identifying Devices
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2. All devices connected to an addressable system must have an addressable module built into them or added externally. This device is what allows the device to be
individually identified on the system.
The identification number of the device must be programmed into it (or into the panel) electronically or mechanically (by dip or rotary switches).
A module for a Firelite MS9000 series addressable panels is show below. This product uses rotary switches to set device IDs.
Addressable Devices
Most addressable fire alarm vendors offer common automatic detectors and manual devices (heat,smoke, and pull station) with a built in addressable module.
Less common detection devices (beam detector,waterflow, tamper) require a separate input module.
Addressable Input Modules
Addressable input modules allow device to be connected to and identified by the addressable fire control.
Input modules come in two types: mini and standard.
Mini input modules are designed to mount inside the device monitored, or in the electrical box behind it. Example: pull stations
Standard input modules are designed to mount in an electrical box by themselves and be connected to the device externally. Example: waterflow or tamper device.
Example model #s:
Mini modules: FIRMMF301 -or- SILSD500MIM
Standard modules: FIRMMF300 -or- SILSD500AIM
Specialty Input Modules
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3. Some vendor offer multiple input modules that have multiple inputs (and multiple device IDs) on the same module.
Some vendors also offer input modules that provide power to 2-wire smoke detectors connected the the module. This allows multiple non-addressable smoke detectors to be connec
the module and report as one point ID.
Multiple input on one module: FIRMDF300 (2), FIRMMF30010 (10)
Power multiple 2-wire smokes: FIRMMF302, SILSD500SDM
Multiple input and 2-wire smoke power: FIRMMF3026 (6)
Addressable Output Modules
Another advantage of addressable system is the ability to put addressable output modules on the same wiring as the input modules. The output may be relay or
voltage, depending on the module.
Relay modules provide a single or multiple contact closures to activate or control other devices.
Voltage output modules provide supervised outputs that can be used to power horns and strobes. This type of module typically requires an external power supply
to provide power for these devices.
Relay module: FIRCRF300, FIRCRF3006 (6 relay), SILSD500ARM
Votlage output: FIRCMF300, FIRCM3006 (6 output), SILSD500ANM
Compatibility
Generally, addressable modules from different vendors are not cross compatible. A Firelite module will probably not work on a Silent Knight syste, and vice versa.
Wiring
The wiring of addressable system is open. Wire and devices can be t-tapped without loss of supervision.
The wire required to wire the addressable devices is determined by the vendor requirements. The length of wire will determine the gauge and type of wire
required.
The wire requirements and distance for the system are usually stated in the manufacturer's spec sheet or instruction manual.
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