Practice Test Geeks(CAT) Certified Alarm Technician Practice Test
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Knowledge and Skills 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.

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  1. What does the term 'tamper switch' refer to in alarm system hardware?

    Answer: A switch that triggers an alert if a device enclosure is opened or removed

    Tamper switches detect unauthorized access to device enclosures, generating a supervisory signal at the control panel.

  2. Which communication method is considered most reliable for alarm signal transmission to a central monitoring station?

    Answer: Cellular communicator (primary) with IP as backup

    Cellular communicators are now considered the most reliable primary path because they are not subject to line cuts, and dual-path with IP adds redundancy.

  3. What is the minimum standby battery capacity requirement for a fire alarm system under NFPA 72?

    Answer: 24 hours in standby plus 5 minutes of alarm

    NFPA 72 requires fire alarm systems to operate for 24 hours in standby followed by 5 minutes in full alarm on backup power.

  4. A glassbreak detector using acoustic technology responds to which specific characteristic?

    Answer: The specific frequency pattern produced when glass shatters

    Acoustic glassbreak detectors are tuned to recognize the unique high-frequency sound signature generated when glass fractures.

  5. What is the purpose of the 'walk test' feature on an alarm control panel?

    Answer: To allow a technician to trigger each zone and verify it annunciates without triggering a full alarm or dispatch

    Walk test mode lets technicians activate each sensor and confirm panel registration without causing false alarm responses.

  6. What is the typical maximum loop resistance allowed for a 4-wire smoke detector circuit?

    Answer: The manufacturer's specified maximum, commonly around 50–100 ohms

    Manufacturers specify maximum loop resistance to ensure proper operating voltage reaches the detector; always consult the device data sheet.

  7. When installing a keypad, what is the most important factor regarding its placement?

    Answer: It must be accessible to authorized users within the exit/entry delay time and not visible from outside

    Keypad placement must allow authorized users to arm/disarm within programmed delays while minimizing visibility to potential intruders.