What must be done within 30 seconds when primary power is lost in a fire alarm system?

When primary power is lost in a fire alarm system, a trouble signal must be sent within 30 seconds. This requirement is critical for ensuring that any issues with the system are promptly communicated to the monitoring personnel or system operators. The ability to detect power loss rapidly is crucial for maintaining the integrity of fire safety protocols, allowing for timely responses in case of emergencies.

In a fire alarm system, the trouble signal serves as an alert that indicates a malfunction or fault condition. It ensures that both the system operators and any potentially affected users are aware that the primary power source has been interrupted, which could compromise the functionality of the fire alarm system. This immediate feedback allows for appropriate corrective actions to be taken, ensuring safety is not compromised.

While backup alarms or connected device shutdowns may be necessary in certain fire alarm configurations, the specific requirement to send a trouble signal is essential for maintaining awareness of system status, making it the correct course of action following a primary power loss.