Fire-Lite Alarms - FAQs

Is any of your software Windows 7 compatible?
PS Tools (5.x and higher) is the only software that has been updated to be Windows 7 and 64 bit compatible, however any programs can be run using the “Compatibility Mode”. To accomplish this proceed as follows:

I’m trying to install my PRN6-F printer using the serial format and I don’t see the option for serial on the menu, only parallel and buffer appear what is wrong?

First, check to see if you have the 25 pin serial connector installed on the back of your printer. If you do, take the cover off the back of the printer and make sure the ribbon cable is seated properly on both the serial connector card, as well as the mother board.

On incoming calls after 3 rings the panel seems to answer the phone, what can I do?

Depending on the model of the panel there may be an option in programming called “Ring Count” (sometimes under “Onboard Dact” or “Service Terminal”). The default setting may be 3 which would mean that the panel would answer after 3 rings, this can be set from 00 (never answer) to 99 rings.

Does Firelite do System Design?
Due to liability Firelite cannot determine the “type”, number or placement of devices however, if provided with a “take-off” list or competitors parts list we can suggest the most common compatible Firelite parts in either a Lite Configurator or Excel format.

I am using the HVAC Shutdown application in the manual with my detectors set as Supervisory, and the relays won’t latch, what could I be doing wrong?

The HVAC Shutdown application works on an “Alarm” event only.

Our current panels can be “semi-flush” mounted, no more than 3.875” into the wall, this ensures that the ventilation holes remain unobstructed, and allows the door to open flat against the wall. Also note that an optional trim ring (p\n TR-CE) is available for cosmetic purposes.

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Can you change the trouble relay on Fire-lite panels to something other than “trouble”?

Yes you can change the trouble relay to something other than “trouble” on the Fire-lite MRP series relays, along with the MS5/10 series relays, however, you CANNOT change the trouble relay to something other than “trouble” on the Fire-lite addressable panels.

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What does UL-Recognized Mean?

It means that the component meets most, but not all of the requirements for UL listing as a fire alarm device for a particular function, but the listing has certain "Conditions of Acceptability" which must be met at the time of installation to be acceptable and conform to the listing standard. For example, a relay may be sold without an enclosure, but an enclosure is required to obtain a UL listing. The manufacturer of the relay may apply for the "Recognized" listing, based on the relay being installed in a UL listed enclosure (the condition of acceptability). The enclosure manufacturer would have to get the relay tested by UL to obtain a listing for the relay in the enclosure and publish documentation showing the proper installation/application of the relay.

Refer to The world of difference between UL 'Listed' and UL 'Recognized'.

ADA Horn/Strobe Mounting Requirements

What are the mounting requirements for pull stations and horn/strobes as per ADA?

NFPA 72 sets the guidelines for installation. Basically, the highest operable part of the pull station must be no more than 48 inches above the floor if only a forward reach is possible or no more than 54 inches if the clear floor space allows a parallel approach by a person in a wheelchair. A strobe must be 80 inches above the highest floor level, or 6 inches below the ceiling, whichever is lower.

NFPA 72 and NFPA 101

What is the relationship between NFPA 72 and NFPA 101 as they apply to fire alarm systems?

NFPA 72 is an installation standard for fire alarm systems. It defines how a system is to be installed, how it is to function and how it is to be maintained.

NFPA 101, the Life Safety Code, has the function of defining when a fire alarm system is required in a building of a particular occupancy and what functions are necessary for that occupancy.

What does EIA mean?

The Electronics Industry Alliance (EIA) defines standards are used to define what protocol certain classes of circuits should follow. For instance, many Fire-Lite panels have a serial communication circuit for interfacing with a serial printer or personal computer. This circuit follows the conventions set forth in the EIA-232 standard (formerly the RS-232 standard). Some Fire-Lite annunciators follow the EIA-485 standard.

A ground fault detected on a fire panel means that there is another reference to ground coming into the system other than the system ground. This is usually caused by a wire making electrical contact with something it shouldn't (such as conduit).

The best way to troubleshoot a ground fault would be to remove all field wiring from the panel, along with any option modules, phone lines and batteries, leaving only AC connected to the panel. The ground fault detection on the panel is immediate, so any ground coming in from the bell circuits, zone wiring, annunciators, or communicators will disappear once the wiring is disconnected. That will allow you to track the circuit bringing in the ground fault. Then you can check that particular circuit to see where the fault is coming from. If everything is off the panel except AC, and the ground fault is still present, the panel is possibly damaged.

Ground faults are very often caused by pulling wiring through conduit during installation, which can strip off the insulation and cause the bare wire to come in contact with the grounded conduit.

Examples of what can cause a ground fault:

. Wire "grounding out" to conduit.

. Moisture or water in a back box

. Water in an underground conduit

. Ground on a phone line.

Yes, on the web site under Products\ Discontinued Products documentation for most of our discontinued products is available. However if you do not see the required materials, please call or email Tech Support firelite.tech@honeywell.com (800-627-3473) for assistance.