System and method for emergency communication in a TCP/IP based redundant fire panel network

摘要

A system and method for providing emergency alarm communications in an fire panel network having a ring topology. The fire panels of the network each include an emergency interface between a panel processor and a panel transceiver. The emergency interface includes a communication link that is different from a normal TCP/IP communication link of the associated panel. The emergency interface comprises a separate communication path from the normal communication link. When normal TCP/IP communications are interrupted, the emergency interface is operable to transmit alarm signals to an adjacent panel in the network. The alarm signals may then be transmitted between subsequently connected panels and a workstation or central monitoring station via the normal TCP/IP mode. The workstation and/or central monitoring station can recognize the alarm signals as being generated by the originating panel. Other embodiments are disclosed and claimed.

主权项

1. A method for providing emergency communication in a networked alarm system, comprising:
receiving, at a panel processor associated with a first fire panel, an event signal from an initiation device; transmitting, from the panel processor, an alarm signal to a panel transceiver via an emergency interface, said alarm signal representative of said event signal, wherein the alarm signal is transmitted to the panel transceiver on a communication link that is different from a primary alarm signal communication link of said first fire panel; and transmitting, from the transceiver, the alarm signal using an emergency communication protocol that is different from a primary communication protocol of said first alarm panel.