Abstract: A software driven, audible output control module can carry out bi-directional communications with an alarm system using the same common link as is used by ambient condition detectors, such as smoke or gas detectors. The audible control module can store characteristics of a plurality of predetermined outputs. The system control can download an audible output originating command. Alternately, such information from detectors can be directly read off the link by the respective modules.

Abstract: A software driven, audible output control module can carry out bi-directional communications with an alarm system using the same common link as is used by ambient condition detectors, such as smoke or gas detectors. The audible control module can store characteristics of a plurality of predetermined outputs. The system control can download an audible output originating command. Alternately, such information from detectors can be directly read off the link by the respective modules.

Abstract: A multi-unit monitoring system includes a plurality of units coupled to a communication medium. The system can also incorporate a common control element coupled to the medium. The individual units include control circuitry which is capable of carrying out verification, confirmation, or entry/exit delay processing. While the control element can receive messages from the various units indicative of their status, the units themselves carry out the respective timing functions.

Abstract: A multi-unit monitoring system includes a plurality of units coupled to a communication medium. The system can also incorporate a common control element coupled to the medium. The individual units include control circuitry which is capable of carrying out verification, confirmation, or entry/exit delay processing. While the control element can receive messages from the various units indicative of their status, the units themselves carry out the respective timing functions.

Abstract: The members of a multi-processor communication system can be loaded with a common set of control programs. Subsequently, the functionality of the various processors can be specified by providing linking information to the respective processors. The linking information specifies which control programs, in which order, are to be executed by a respective processor. Processors can be associated with or bound to a respective system using encrypted control codes. The functional integrity of one or more modules at a respective processor can be verified.

Abstract: There is disclosed a battery monitor for monitoring a plurality of conditions of a battery utilized within a system as the primary or auxiliary power source of the system. The battery monitor includes a voltage measuring means for measuring the voltage of the battery and a processor coupled to the voltage measuring means. The processor utilizes the voltage measurement of the voltage measuring means to determine the presence or the absence of the battery, whether the battery voltage is equal to or greater than a nominal voltage level, and whether the discharge rate of the battery is greater than a selected discharge rate.