FACP Power Supply & Battery Systems

Question 1

Per NFPA 72, what is the minimum secondary (standby) power duration required for a fire alarm system in a building protected throughout by an automatic sprinkler system?

Accepted Answer

24 hours

Answer

NFPA 72 requires a minimum of 24 hours of standby power for sprinklered buildings, followed by 5 minutes of alarm operation.

Question 2

What battery chemistry is most commonly specified for FACP secondary power supplies?

Accepted Answer

Sealed lead-acid (SLA)

Answer

Sealed lead-acid (SLA) batteries are the most common type used in FACPs due to their reliability, maintenance-free operation, and compatibility with continuous float charging.

Question 3

What is the standard primary AC input voltage for a commercial FACP in the United States?

Accepted Answer

120 VAC

Answer

Commercial FACPs in the US are powered by 120 VAC from a dedicated branch circuit on the building's electrical system.

Question 4

Per NFPA 72, how often must the secondary power supply capacity be tested on a fire alarm system?

Accepted Answer

Annually

Answer

NFPA 72 requires annual testing of the secondary power supply capacity to verify it meets the minimum standby and alarm duration requirements.

Question 5

When performing battery calculations for an FACP, what derating factor is typically applied to account for battery aging?

Accepted Answer

0.80 (80%)

Answer

A derating factor of 0.80 is applied so that batteries are replaced before capacity falls below 80% of their rated value, ensuring reliable standby performance.

FACP - Fire Alarm Control Panel Certification Practice Test

FACP - Fire Alarm Control Panel Certification Practice Test

FACP Power Supply & Battery Systems