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Doc. P/N 06-905
Rev. 1 / December 2018
9.0
FIRE ARM TESTING
9.1.
Fire ARM Operational Overview
The Output Analyzer can be used to perform two important testing functions associated with the Fire ARM’s firing
circuit. The first testing function assesses the Fire ARM’s ability to supply the correct current (amps) required to
activate the actuator devices connected to the firing circuit; the second testing function assesses the integrity of the
field wiring by measuring the supervisory current at the ARM.
When the Analyzer is connected to a Fire ARM for testing, the activation signal is provided via a release event on the
fire alarm control panel, such as when a release station is activated. The Analyzer will then measure the current
supplied by the ARM firing circuit and display the result on the LCD panel. Four readings will be taken to ensure the
Fire ARM is supplying adequate firing current, with readings occurring momentarily (there is a slight delay between
fire control panel activation and firing circuit release).
IMPORTANT: The ACTIVATE button does not apply to Fire ARM testing. Instead, activate using a release event on the
fire alarm control panel (e.g., activate release station).
3.
Enable the release circuit and IRM with the Analyzer installed (one per IRM or repeat testing for each one at
a time).
4.
Wait 60 seconds to allow the capacitors time to charge. If the panel does not immediately return to normal,
reset the panel to a normal state.
5.
Remove the 0Ω Shunt from the Analyzer. The supervisory current will be displayed (.20mA - .54mA).
6.
Record the IRM supervisory current reading for future reference, since subsequent tests will overwrite current
test data.
7.
Install the 0Ω Shunt (short jumper) onto the Analyzer
8.
The display will read “Ready for Test.” Reset the panel if required to obtain a normal panel, and wait 60
seconds for the capacitor to charge.
9.
Activate the IRM by initiating an input that will cause the panel output to trigger the IRM.
10. The current reading will be displayed, along with “IRM PASSES” or “FAIL REPLACE IRM.”
NOTE: The upper limit of each test range is provided to help you determine when a component is nearing the
end of its useful life and should be replaced. For the IRM, the average of the four test readings must be greater
than or equal to 95% of 4.5 amps, or 4.275A. If the average is approaching 4.275A, consider replacing the IRM.
11. Record the IRM firing current reading for future reference, since subsequent tests will overwrite current test
data.
12. Press and release the ENTER button to repeat the test or press and release the SELECT and ENTER buttons at
the same time to return to the Main Menu.
13. End of testing. Place system back into normal operational state.
IRM Supervisory
Current .32mA
IRM ANALYZE
Ready for Test
2.39 3.4 4.0 3.5
FAIL REPLACE IRM
7.34 6.7 4.7 3.1
IRM PASSES
