This article discusses options for setting up a fire alarm mute using PowerMatch without the use of ControlSpace ESP or ControlSpace EX processors.
Relevant Product(s)
- PowerMatch PM4250
- PowerMatch PM4250N
- PowerMatch PM4500
- PowerMatch PM4500N
- PowerMatch PM8250
- PowerMatch PM8250N
- PowerMatch PM8500
- PowerMatch PM8500N
Procedure
One benefit of using PowerMatch Amplifiers is that because it is a networked amplifier platform, networked controls such as ControlSpace CC-64 or ControlSpace Remote may be used to control the amplifier directly. For some smaller deployments, this means that only the amplifier and the controller are required to have a complete head end system. Unlike ControlSpace ESP and ControlSpace EX processors, PowerMatch does not feature General Purpose In (GPI) terminals which could be used to connect to a fire alarm panel for the purposes of emergency mute functionality. In the event that this functionality is desired or required by local fire codes, a few options exist to accomplish this.
Using an External Power Controller
The simplest method for muting system audio to the loudspeakers is to disconnect power from the amplifier. This is accomplished by using a power switch attached to a dry contact closure, or relay. The building's fire alarm panel will typically offer Normally Open and Normally Closed contacts for use with audio systems. Depending on local fire codes, one of these contacts may be required to mute the audio in the event of a fire alarm. There are several products available on the market today that offer the functional required to meet these codes.
NOTE: It is generally considered best practice to use a Normally Closed contact for a fire alarm mute application. This means that the audio system will be active ("normal") so long as there is a connection between the power controller's input and ground terminals. In this scenario, if the wire connecting the fire panel to the power controller is cut, removed, or otherwise compromised, the system will fail "safe" and audio will mute, indicating an issue that needs to be resolved.
Normally Open Contacts Only
Two products available for use with Normally Open dry contacts include the Lowell Mfg. RPC-15 and the Atlas Power ECM-15SH.
| Lowell Mfg. RPC-15 | Atlas Power ECM-15SH |
Each of these products can be wired in such a way to remove power to the connected load (the PowerMatch amplifier) when a dry contact closure is applied across the control terminals.
Normally Closed or Normally Open Contacts
Two products available for use with either normally open or normally closed dry contacts include the Furman CN-15MP and the Middle Atlantic RLM-15-1CA.
| Furman CN-15MP | Middle Atlantic RLM-15-1CA |
These products offer configuration flexibility by allowing the installer to select which method of dry contact will actuate the power switch.
For more information, refer to the the individual product pages that are linked above.
Muting the Source Input to the Amplifier
Alternatively, the source input to the amplifier can be muted. However, this method may be less practical and cost effective, especially if there are multiple sources wired to the amplifier. One product that is available for use with normally open contacts is the RDL ST-RX2. Keep in mind that this product requires a separate power supply which is sold separately.
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| RDL ST-RX2 |
For more information on this product including wiring instructions, refer to the product page linked above.