SimplexGrinnell helps streamline fire alarm system commissioning

LAS VEGAS, Nev. (June 4, 2008) – SimplexGrinnell is taking a step forward in fire alarm system commissioning with the introduction of two new products – a contractor diagnostic instrument that can provide early identification of potential problems and a software advancement to make required system inspection simpler and more accurate.

The new offerings were highlighted this week at the SimplexGrinnell booth (#1227) at the 2008 NFPA World Safety Conference & Exposition in Las Vegas.

"Based on voice-of-the-customer feedback from contractors, engineers, building owners, local fire officials and technicians, SimplexGrinnell is offering the life-safety industry important new tools and technologies that can simplify the commissioning of fire alarm systems and support the timely issuance of occupancy permits," says Dave Baer, Vice President of Marketing. "These new technology offerings help differentiate SimplexGrinnell as an industry leader that provides value to customers and their business operations."

Simplex TrueSTART Analysis and Testing Instrument

The new Simplex TrueSTART (System Technical Analysis and Readiness Testing) instrument is a portable, hand-held diagnostic tool that can simplify and expedite the commissioning process for Simplex fire alarm systems. The TrueSTART instrument enables contractors or technicians to quickly verify that wiring and peripheral devices are installed correctly and operating properly – even before the system wiring is connected to the fire alarm control panel.

Battery-operated and simple to use, the TrueSTART instrument uses advanced software technology to scan hundreds of addressable fire alarm system devices and pinpoint potential problems, such as ground faults, shorted wiring, or incorrect or duplicate addressing. Through its sophisticated diagnostic capabilities for Simplex fire alarm systems, the TrueSTART instrument can expedite the resolution of problems, keep projects on target for the planned occupancy date, and support compliance with nationally recognized codes and standards such as NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code and CAN/ULC-S537.

Simplex 4100U Fire Alarm System Inspection & Testing Software

With an important software enhancement to its flagship Simplex 4100U fire alarm system, SimplexGrinnell offers a new way to streamline the inspection and testing process – and help ensure that the report is complete and accurate. Acceptance testing is a crucial part of the building construction process. In order to complete a project, the fire alarm supplier must document that the system has been installed according to the requirements in NFPA 72, National Fire Alarm Code. The Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance chapter of NFPA 72 requires inspection and testing of the system and its components, including initiating and notification devices and circuits.

The new technology enables a Simplex 4100U system programmer to create a downloadable report that mirrors the Inspection and Testing Form prescribed in NFPA 72. What's more, the report is pre-populated with a listing of all system devices – and their specific address and building location. The pre-populated form can be completed electronically or printed for use in conducting the inspection and testing. The resulting process for completing the required inspection and testing report can be simpler, cleaner and more accurate.