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The testing should include all sensing devices, keypads, consoles, alarm indicating devices
and any other operational devices that are part of the system.
NOTE TO USERS:
All Mircom Systems have been carefully designed to be as effective as possible. However,
there are circumstances where they may not provide protection. Some reasons for system
failure include the following. The end user can minimize the occurrence of any of the following
by proper training, testing and maintenance of the Mircom Systems:
6.
Inadequate Testing and Maintenance.
It is
imperative that the systems be periodically
tested and subjected to preventative maintenance. Best practices and local authority having
jurisdiction determine the frequency and type of testing that is required at a minimum. Mircom
System may not function properly, and the occurrence of other system failures identified below
may not be minimized, if the periodic testing and maintenance of Mircom Systems is not
completed with diligence and as required.
7.
Improper Operation.
It is important that all system users be trained in the correct operation
of the alarm system and that they know how to respond when the system indicates an alarm.
A Mircom System
may not function as intended during an emergency situation where the user
is unable to operate a panic or emergency switch by reason of permanent or temporary
physical disability, inability to reach the device in time, unfamiliarity with the correct operation,
or related circumstances.
8.
Insufficient Time.
There may be circumstances when a Mircom System will operate as
intended, yet the occupants will not be protected from the emergency due to their inability to
respond to the warnings in a timely manner. If the system is monitored, the response may not
occur in time enough to protect the occupants or their belongings.
9.
Carelessness or Safety Hazards.
Moreover, smoke detectors may not provide timely
warning of fires caused by carelessness or safety hazards such as smoking in bed, violent
explosions, escaping gas, improper storage of flammable materials, overloaded electrical
circuits or children playing with matches or arson.
10.
Power Failure.
Some Mircom System
components require adequate electrical power supply
to operate. Examples include: smoke detectors, beacons, HVAC, and lighting controllers. If a
device operates only by AC power, any interruption, however brief, will render that device
inoperative while it does not have power. Power interruptions of any length are often
accompanied by voltage fluctuations which may damage Mircom Systems or other electronic
equipment. After a power interruption has occurred, immediately conduct a complete system
test to ensure that the system operates as intended.
11.
Battery Failure.
If the Mircom System or any device connected to the system operates from
batteries it is possible for the batteries to fail. Even if the batteries have not failed, they must be
fully charged, in good condition, and installed correctly. Some Mircom Systems use
replaceable batteries, which have a limited life-span. The expected battery life is variable and
in part dependent on the device environment, usage and type. Ambient conditions such as
high humidity, high or low temperatures, or large temperature fluctuations may reduce the
expected battery life. Moreover, some Mircom Systems do not have a battery monitor that
would alert the user in the event that the battery is nearing its end of life. Regular testing and
replacements are vital for ensuring that the batteries function as expected, whether or not a
device has a low-battery monitor.
12.
Physical Obstructions.
Motion sensors that are part of a Mircom System must be kept clear
of any obstacles which impede the sensors’ ability to detect movement. Signals being
communicated by a Mircom System may not reach the receiver if an item (such as metal,
water, or concrete) is placed on or near the radio path. Deliberate jamming or other
inadvertent radio signal interference can also negatively affect system operation.
Summary of Contents for MR-401
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