What is the purpose of an End-of-Line (EOL) resistor in a fire alarm system?

The purpose of an End-of-Line (EOL) resistor in a fire alarm system is to supervise the circuit wiring. By placing a resistor at the end of the circuit, it allows the fire alarm control panel to monitor the integrity of the wiring and devices connected within that circuit. If there is a short circuit, open circuit, or a fault in the wiring, the change in resistance detected by the control panel will trigger an alarm or trouble signal. This supervision ensures that any issues in the circuit are identified and reported, maintaining the reliability and effectiveness of the fire alarm system.

The other options do not accurately describe the function of the EOL resistor. While power consumption may be influenced by circuit design, the primary role of the EOL resistor is not to reduce power consumption. Prevention of short circuits falls under different protective measures, and enhancing signal strength is not a function of the EOL resistor. Instead, it specifically ensures that the system can detect wiring issues, thus reinforcing the safety of the fire alarm system.