Which device always generates a supervisory signal at the FACP?

Which device always generates a supervisory signal at the FACP?

• A. Manual pull station
• B. Photoelectric detector
• C. Heat detector
• D. Air pressure switch in a dry-type system

Answer: (D)

Supervisory signals are used to indicate a monitored condition that isn’t an active fire but needs attention or maintenance. In a dry-type sprinkler system, keeping the air pressure in the pipes is essential to prevent water from entering. The air pressure switch is wired to the fire alarm panel to continuously monitor that pressure. If the pressure drops or the switch changes state, the panel receives a supervisory signal to alert that the dry-pipe system has a fault or needs service. Manual pull stations are manual initiators—they trigger alarms when someone activates them. Photoelectric and heat detectors respond by generating alarm signals when they detect smoke or heat, and they may produce trouble signals if there’s a fault, but they aren’t normal supervisory devices. Therefore, the device that will generate a supervisory signal at the FACP is the air pressure switch in a dry-type system.

Supervisory signals are used to indicate a monitored condition that isn’t an active fire but needs attention or maintenance. In a dry-type sprinkler system, keeping the air pressure in the pipes is essential to prevent water from entering. The air pressure switch is wired to the fire alarm panel to continuously monitor that pressure. If the pressure drops or the switch changes state, the panel receives a supervisory signal to alert that the dry-pipe system has a fault or needs service.

Manual pull stations are manual initiators—they trigger alarms when someone activates them. Photoelectric and heat detectors respond by generating alarm signals when they detect smoke or heat, and they may produce trouble signals if there’s a fault, but they aren’t normal supervisory devices. Therefore, the device that will generate a supervisory signal at the FACP is the air pressure switch in a dry-type system.