Abstract: A single zone system which may use a single cable pair for both detectors of nonstandard conditions and audio/visual alarms. The audio/visual alarms are polarity responsive and in response to an alarm detection, comprising an increase in line current, the polarity is reversed and the line current supervision circuit disconnected. Some detectors or signaling devices may be polarity sensitive so that they present a high impedance under normal and reverse polarity conditions, and a lower impedance on abnormal conditions and prior to polarity reversal. Other detectors may be polarity insensitive and include a relay which may be activated from line potential subsequent to detection of an abnormal condition. The relay may be used to operate door closers or to initiate other appropriate action.

Abstract: An alarm detection, indication and supervision circuit with reduced power drain during failure of commerical power supply whereby standby batteries may maintain detection capability for an extended period. Separate detection and alarm indication loops are provided each with an end-of-line resistor which is removed from the circuit in response to a commercial power failure. A nearly unlimited number of detectors may be used on the detection circuit and each may have an auxiliary relay for control of local apparatus to permit local control, under changing ambient conditions. In response to an alarm signal, the potential on both loops is switched from a limited current supply to a hard supply and the polarity is reversed.

Abstract: A circuit for distinguishing between two classes of alarms on a single loop. An alarm of a first class causes an impedance of a first predetermined value to be added in the loop; and an alarm of a second class causes a much larger additional impedance, or an open condition, to be inserted in the loop. The loop is bridged across an element of a voltage divider and, therefore, the loop characteristics, including the changed characteristics due to the impedance change in response to an alarm of either class, controls the potential of a test point of the voltage divider. Voltage comparators monitor the potential of the test point relative to control potentials, and cause relays to provide a no alarm signal, a first alarm signal, or a second alarm signal when there is no alarm condition on the loop, an alarm of the first class, or an alarm of the second class, respectively, on the loop.