Practice Test Geeks(CAT) Certified Alarm Technician Level I Practice Test
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Alarm Technician System Installation Flashcards

7 cards from real CAT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

Read the first 7 Alarm Technician System Installation flashcards as text

  1. When installing a motion detector, what is the recommended mounting height for a passive infrared (PIR) sensor to achieve optimal coverage?

    Answer: 6 to 8 feet

    PIR motion detectors are typically mounted at 6 to 8 feet to provide the best coverage pattern and minimize false alarms from pets near the floor.

  2. Which wire gauge is most commonly used for connecting alarm system sensors to a control panel?

    Answer: 18 AWG

    18 AWG wire is the standard for most low-voltage alarm sensor wiring because it provides sufficient conductivity for signal transmission over typical residential distances.

  3. What is the purpose of an end-of-line (EOL) resistor in a supervised alarm zone?

    Answer: To allow the panel to detect open or short circuit faults

    An EOL resistor creates a specific resistance value that the panel monitors, allowing it to detect both open circuits (wire cut) and short circuits (wire shorted) as tamper conditions.

  4. A door contact is installed on an outswing door. Where should the magnet portion be placed?

    Answer: On the door itself

    The magnet is placed on the moving door panel while the switch body is mounted on the stationary frame, ensuring the magnet separates from the switch when the door opens.

  5. Which National Electrical Code (NEC) article governs the installation of fire alarm systems?

    Answer: Article 760

    NEC Article 760 specifically covers fire alarm systems, including wiring requirements, cable types, and installation methods for fire protective signaling systems.

  6. When drilling through a fire-rated wall to run alarm wiring, what must be done after the wire is installed?

    Answer: Seal the penetration with a listed fire-stop material

    All penetrations through fire-rated walls must be sealed with UL-listed fire-stop materials to maintain the wall's fire rating and prevent fire and smoke spread.

  7. What does a normally closed (NC) zone configuration mean in an alarm system?

    Answer: The zone circuit is complete (closed loop) under normal conditions

    A normally closed zone has a complete electrical circuit at rest; the circuit opens when a sensor triggers, causing the panel to detect an alarm condition.