Question:
I am in the process of buying a wireless alarm system. Our home was
built with a sprinkler system, with a Potter VSR-SF flow switch
installed, which activates an alarm bell (local only).
I want to monitor that flow switch with the alarm system, and was
wondering how to do it. Using a wireless transmitter with NC/EOL
hardwire inputs and without disabling the outside bell, can someone tell
me how to wire this? If this is not the way to do it, can someone tell
me what components should be used instead.
Although I don't think it is relevant, the alarm is a Visonic Powermax.
Answer:The VSR-SF has two sets of SPDT (form C) contacts. Leave one set connected
to the bell output and use the other to trip the RF transmitter. If your
transmitter supports EOL supervision as a separate signal you can even wire
the shut-off valve to send a "tamper" signal. On commercial fire
suppression (sprinkler) systems valve tamper monitoring is mandatory. It
may or may not be required for your residence, depending on local code and
the whim of the inspector. If you want to supervise the shut-off valve but
the wireless transmitter doesn't support it, just use a second transmitter.
BTW, at least one alarm system -- Napco Gemini -- has transmitters with two,
separately identifiable conditions per transmitter. Their GEM-TRANS2 units
have two independent inputs. For detailed information on Napco alarms, you
can browse my website. I have product specs and manuals available.
