If the primary power supply for a fire alarm system fails, within how many seconds should the backup supply take over?

A backup power supply is a critical component of fire alarm systems, ensuring that the system remains operational in the event of a primary power failure. The correct timeframe for the backup supply to take over is 10 seconds. This requirement is in line with industry standards, such as those set by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). The need for a swift transition to backup power is vital since alerts and alarms must remain functional to ensure occupant safety and enable timely emergency response during a power outage.

The 10-second specification allows the system to maintain operational integrity without significant delay, providing essential services like alarm signaling and monitoring. If the transition took longer, there could be a dangerous lapse in protective measures. The rapid switching capability of modern backup power systems, such as battery backups or generators, is designed to meet this requirement efficiently.