A Conventional Fire Alarm System is one of the most commonly used fire protection systems in buildings. It is designed to detect and alert people in case of fire hazards through a network of devices. Unlike more advanced systems, such as addressable fire alarm systems, conventional systems work on a simpler mechanism.

Here are the key components and features of a conventional fire alarm system:

1. Control Panel

• The central unit where all signals from detectors and devices are processed.
• It monitors the status of the system, indicates faults, alarms, and the presence of any malfunctions.
• It provides alerts to the fire department or building staff in case of a fire.

2. Fire Detectors

• Smoke Detectors: Detect the presence of smoke, indicating the possibility of fire.
• Heat Detectors: Activate when the temperature in the area exceeds a preset threshold.
• Flame Detectors: Detect visible or infrared radiation from a fire.
• These detectors are generally installed in various areas of the building, such as hallways, rooms, and common areas.

3. Manual Call Points (MCP)

• These are manual switches that allow people to manually trigger the fire alarm in the event of an emergency, typically located near exits or in corridors.

4. Alarm Sounders

• These are the audible indicators that sound off in the event of a fire alarm. They are often paired with visual indicators like flashing lights for better visibility, especially for people with hearing impairments.

5. Control and Indicating Equipment (CIE)

• The CIE is the interface for the control panel that provides system diagnostics and feedback. It allows the user to identify which zone has been activated by the detector, enabling more efficient emergency responses.

6. Zoning System

• In a conventional fire alarm system, the building is divided into zones. When a detector activates, the control panel only knows the zone in which the alarm has been triggered, not the specific location.
• For example, if a detector in Zone 1 detects smoke, the control panel will indicate that the alarm is in Zone 1, but the exact device (smoke detector or heat detector) cannot be pinpointed.

Features:

• Simplicity and Cost-Effectiveness: Conventional fire alarm systems are simpler and generally more affordable than addressable systems.
• Limited Identification: The system can identify only the zone where the alarm was triggered, not the specific device. This can lead to longer response times compared to more advanced systems.
• Reliability: These systems are widely trusted for general use in smaller or less complex buildings.

Applications:

Conventional fire alarm systems are ideal for smaller buildings, residential areas, and smaller commercial properties where the cost and complexity of an addressable system are not justified.

In summary, a conventional fire alarm system is effective for smaller setups, offering basic detection and alarm functionality, but it has limitations in pinpointing specific devices or locations.