Trane Smoke Alarm BAS APG001 EN User Manual

Applications  
Guide  
Engineered Smoke  
Control System  
for TRACER SUMMIT  
BAS-APG001-EN  
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Applications  
Guide  
Engineered Smoke  
Control System  
for TRACER SUMMIT  
BAS-APG001-EN  
September 2006  
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Applications Guide, Engineered Smoke Control System for Tracer Summit  
This guide and the information in it are the property of American Standard and may not be used or reproduced in whole or in part,  
without the written permission of American Standard. Trane, a business of American Standard, Inc., has a policy of continuous product  
and product data improvement and reserves the right to change design and specification without notice.  
Use of the software contained in this package is provided under a software license agreement. Unauthorized use of the software or  
related materials discussed in this guide can result in civil damages and criminal penalties. The terms of this license are included with  
the compact disk. Please read them thoroughly.  
Although Trane has tested the hardware and software described in this guide, no guarantee is offered that the hardware and software  
are error free.  
Trane reserves the right to revise this publication at any time and to make changes to its content without obligation to notify any per-  
son of such revision or change.  
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giving license to these patents.  
The following are trademarks or registered trademarks of American Standard: Rover, Trane, and Tracer Summit.  
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The following are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective companies or organizations: LonTalk and Lon-  
Works from Echelon Corporation, National Electrical Code from the National Fire Protection Association.  
Printed in the U.S.A.  
© 2006 American Standard All rights reserved  
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NOTICE:  
Warnings and Cautions appear at appropriate sections throughout this manual. Read these carefully:  
ƽWARNING  
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury.  
ƽCAUTION  
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, may result in minor or moderate injury.  
It may also be used to alert against unsafe practices.  
CAUTION  
Indicates a situation that may result in equipment damage or property damage.  
The following format and symbol conventions appear at appropriate sections throughout this manual:  
IMPORTANT  
Alerts installer, servicer, or operator to potential actions that could cause the product or system to  
operate improperly but will not likely result in potential for damage.  
Note:  
A note may be used to make the reader aware of useful information, to clarify a point, or to describe  
options or alternatives.  
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Contents  
Contents  
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Contents  
Transtector, Ethernet (UUKL nondedicated only), and LonTalk  
Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable  
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Contents  
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Contents  
UUKL binding list (actuator Open/Close or  
iv  
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Contents  
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Chapter 1  
Smoke control overview  
Smoke is one of the major problems created by a fire. Smoke threatens  
life and property, both in the immediate location of the fire and in  
locations remote from the fire. The objectives of smoke control include:  
Maintain reduced-risk escape route environments  
Diminish smoke migration to other building spaces  
Reduce property loss  
Provide conditions that assist the fire service  
Aid in post-fire smoke removal  
Smoke consists of airborne solid and liquid particulates, gases formed  
during combustion, and the air supporting the particulates and gases.  
Smoke control manages smoke movement to reduce the threat to life and  
property. This chapter describes:  
Methods of smoke control  
Applications of smoke control methods  
Smoke detection and system activation  
Design approaches to smoke control  
Design considerations for smoke control  
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Chapter 1 Smoke control overview  
Methods of smoke control  
Smoke control system designers use five methods to manage smoke. They  
use the methods individually or in combination. The specific methods  
used determine the standards of design analysis, performance criteria,  
acceptance tests, and routine tests. The methods of smoke control consist  
of: compartmentation, dilution, pressurization, air flow, and buoyancy.  
Compartmentation method  
The compartmentation method provides passive smoke protection to  
spaces remote from a fire. The method employs walls, partitions, floors,  
doors, smoke barriers, smoke dampers, and other fixed and mechanical  
barriers. Smoke control system designers often use the compartmentation  
method in combination with the pressurization method.  
Dilution method  
The dilution method clears smoke from spaces remote from a fire. The  
method supplies outside air through the HVAC system to dilute smoke.  
Using this method helps to maintain acceptable gas and particulate  
concentrations in compartments subject to smoke infiltration from  
adjacent compartments. In addition, the fire service can employ the  
dilution method to remove smoke after extinguishing a fire. Smoke  
dilution is also called smoke purging, smoke removal, or smoke  
extraction.  
Within a fire compartment, however, dilution may not result in any  
significant improvement in air quality. HVAC systems promote a  
considerable degree of air mixing within the spaces they serve and  
building fires can produce very large quantities of smoke. Also, dilution  
within a fire compartment supplies increased oxygen to a fire.  
Pressurization method  
The pressurization method protects refuge spaces and exit routes. The  
method employs a pressure difference across a barrier to control smoke  
movement (Figure 1 on page 3). The high-pressure side of the barrier is  
either the refuge area or an exit route. The low-pressure side is exposed to  
smoke. Airflow from the high-pressure side to the low-pressure side  
(through construction cracks and gaps around doors) prevents smoke  
infiltration. A path that channels smoke from the low-pressure side to the  
outside ensures that gas expansion pressures do not become a problem. A  
top-vented elevator shaft or a fan-powered exhaust can provide the path.  
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Methods of smoke control  
Figure 1: Sample pressure difference across a barrier  
Table 1 provides the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)  
recommended minimum pressure difference between the high-pressure  
side and the low-pressure side.  
Table 1: Recommended minimum pressure difference  
Minimum pressure  
Ceiling height  
(ft [m])  
difference  
Building type  
Sprinklered  
(In.w.c. [Pa])  
Any  
0.05 (12.4)  
0.10 (24.9)  
0.14 (34.8)  
0.18 (44.8)  
Non-sprinklered  
Non-sprinklered  
Non-sprinklered  
Notes:  
9 (2.7)  
15 (4.6)  
21 (6.4)  
The minimum pressure difference column provides the pressure  
difference between the high pressure side and the low-pressure side.  
The minimum pressure difference values incorporate the pressure  
induced by the buoyancy of hot smoke.  
A smoke control system should maintain the minimum pressure  
differences regardless of stack effect and wind.  
The minimum pressure difference values are based on  
recommendations in NFPA 92A (NFPA 2000, Recommended Practice  
for Smoke Control Systems).  
In.w.c. is inches of water column.  
Pa is Pascals.  
Table 2 on page 4 provides the NFPA recommended maximum allowable  
pressure difference across doors. The listed pressure differences take into  
account the door closer force and door width.  
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Chapter 1 Smoke control overview  
Table 2: Maximum allowable pressure differences across doors  
Door width  
(in. [m])  
32 (0.813)  
36 (0.914)  
40 (1.02)  
44 (1.12)  
46 (1.17)  
Door closer force  
(lb. [N])  
Pressure difference  
(In.w.c. [Pa])  
6 (26.7)  
8 (35.6)  
0.45 (112.0)  
0.41 (102.0)  
0.37 (92.1)  
0.34 (84.5)  
0.30 (74.6)  
0.40 (99.5)  
0.37 (92.1)  
0.34 (84.5)  
0.30 (74.6)  
0.27 (67.2)  
0.37 (92.1)  
0.34 (84.5)  
0.30 (74.6)  
0.27 (67.2)  
0.24 (59.7)  
0.34 (84.6)  
0.31 (77.1)  
0.28 (69.7)  
0.25 (62.2)  
0.22 (45.7)  
0.31 (77.1)  
0.28 (69.7)  
0.26 (64.7)  
0.23 (57.2)  
0.21 (52.2)  
10 (44.5)  
12 (53.4)  
14 (62.3)  
Notes:  
Total door opening force is 30 lb. (133 N); door height is 80 in. (2.03 m). NFPA 101 (NFPA 2003, Life  
Safety Code) recommends the door opening force.  
N is Newton.  
m is meter.  
In.w.c. is inches of water column.  
Pa is Pascal.  
The pressure difference values are based on recommendations in NFPA 92A (NFPA 2000,  
Recommended Practice for Smoke Control Systems).  
Airflow method  
The airflow method controls smoke in spaces that have barriers with one  
or more large openings. It is used to manage smoke in subway, railroad,  
and highway tunnels. The method employs air velocity across or between  
barriers to control smoke movement (Figure 2).  
Figure 2: Sample airflow method  
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Applications of smoke control methods  
A disadvantage of the airflow method is that it supplies increased oxygen  
to a fire. Within buildings, the airflow method must be used with great  
caution. The airflow required to control a wastebasket fire has sufficient  
oxygen to support a fire 70 times larger than the wastebasket fire. The  
airflow method is best applied after fire suppression or in buildings with  
restricted fuel. For more information on airflow, oxygen, and combustion,  
refer to Huggett, C. 1980, Estimation of Rate of Heat Release by Means of  
Oxygen Consumption Measurements, Fire and Materials.  
Buoyancy method  
The buoyancy method clears smoke from large volume spaces with high  
ceilings. The method employs paths to the outside and relies on hot  
combustion gases rising to the highest level in a space. At the high point,  
either a powered smoke exhausting system or a non-powered smoke  
venting system clears the smoke.  
Applications of smoke control methods  
Applying the methods of smoke control to spaces within a building  
provides a building smoke control system. Smoke control methods are  
most commonly applied to building spaces to provide zoned, stairwell,  
elevator shaft, and atrium smoke control.  
Note:  
It is beyond the scope of this user guide to provide  
mathematical design analysis information for smoke control.  
For references to design analysis information, see Appendix A,  
Zoned smoke control  
Zoned smoke control uses compartmentation and pressurization to limit  
smoke movement within a building. Typically, a building consists of a  
number of smoke control zones. Barriers (partitions, doors, ceilings, and  
floors) separate the zones. Each floor of a building is usually a separate  
zone (Figure 3 on page 6). However, a zone can consist of more than one  
floor, or a floor can consist of more than one zone.  
The zone in which the smoke is detected is the smoke control zone. Zones  
next to the smoke control zone are adjacent zones. Zones not next to the  
smoke control zone are unaffected zones.  
Pressure differences produced by fans limit smoke movement to adjacent  
and unaffected zones. The system may pressurize adjacent zones and  
leave all unaffected zones in normal operation (Figure 3(a) and Figure  
3(c), page 6). Pressurizing adjacent zones creates a pressure sandwich.  
Or, the system may pressurize adjacent zones and some unaffected zones  
(Figure 3(b), page 6). In either case, the system exhausts the smoke  
control zone, putting it at a negative pressure, relative to adjacent zones.  
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Chapter 1 Smoke control overview  
Zoned smoke control cannot limit the spread of smoke within the smoke  
control zone. Consequently, occupants of the smoke control zone must  
evacuate as soon as possible after fire detection.  
Figure 3: Sample arrangements of smoke control zones  
+ : Represents high-pressure zone  
– : Represents low-pressure zone  
When an HVAC system serves multiple floors (Figure 4 on page 7) and  
each floor is a separate zone, the following sequence provides smoke  
control:  
1. In the smoke control zone, the smoke damper in the supply duct  
closes and the smoke damper in the return duct opens.  
2. In adjacent and/or unaffected zones, the smoke dampers in the return  
ducts close and smoke dampers in the supply ducts open.  
3. If the system has a return air damper, it closes.  
4. Supply and return fans activate.  
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Applications of smoke control methods  
Figure 4: Sample HVAC operation during smoke control  
Note:  
For simplicity, Figure 4 does not show the ducts on each floor or  
the penthouse equipment.  
When an HVAC system serves only one smoke control zone, the following  
sequence provides smoke control:  
1. In the smoke control zone, the return/exhaust fan activates, the  
supply fan deactivates.  
2. The return air damper closes, and the exhaust damper opens  
(optionally, the outside air damper closes).  
3. In the no-smoke zone, the return/exhaust fan deactivates, the supply  
fan activates.  
4. The return air damper closes, and the outside air damper opens  
(optionally, the exhaust air damper closes).  
Stairwell smoke control  
Stairwell smoke control uses pressurization to prevent smoke migration  
through stairwells to floors remote from the source of the smoke.  
Secondarily, it provides a staging area for fire fighters.  
In the smoke control zone, a pressurized stairwell maintains a positive  
pressure difference across closed stairwell doors to limit smoke  
infiltration to the stairwell. Stairwell smoke control employs one or more  
of these design techniques: compensated pressurization, non-  
compensated pressurization, single injection pressurization, and multiple  
injection pressurization.  
Compensated pressurization technique  
The compensated stairwell pressurization technique adjusts air pressure  
to compensate for various combinations of open and closed stairwell  
access doors. The technique maintains constant positive pressure  
differences across openings. To compensate for pressure changes, it either  
employs modulated supply airflow or over-pressure relief.  
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Chapter 1 Smoke control overview  
If the technique employs modulated supply airflow, a fan provides at least  
minimum pressure when all stairwell access doors are open. Either a  
single-speed fan with modulating bypass dampers or a variable frequency  
drive varies the flow of air into the stairwell to compensate for pressure  
changes.  
If the technique employs over-pressure relief, a damper or fan relieves air  
to the outside to maintain constant pressure in the stairwell. The amount  
of air relieved depends on the air pressure in the stairwell. A barometric  
damper, a motor-operated damper, or an exhaust fan can be used to  
maintain the air pressure.  
Non-compensated pressurization technique  
The non-compensated pressurization technique provides a constant  
volume of pressurization air. The level of pressurization depends on the  
state of the stairwell access doors. When access doors open, the pressure  
in the stairwell lowers. When access doors close, the pressure raises. One  
or more single-speed fans provide pressurization air (Figure 5).  
Non-compensated stairwell pressurization works best when:  
Stairwells are in a lightly populated building (for example: telephone  
exchanges and luxury apartments).  
Stairwell access doors are usually closed, but when used, remain open  
only a few seconds.  
Figure 5: Sample non-compensated system  
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Applications of smoke control methods  
Single and multiple injection pressurization techniques  
The single injection and multiple injection techniques provide  
pressurization air to a stairwell (Figure 6). Both techniques use one or  
more pressurization fans located at ground level, roof level, or any  
location in between.  
The single injection technique supplies pressurization air to the stairwell  
from one location.  
IMPORTANT  
The single injection technique can fail when stairwell access doors are  
open near the air supply injection point. Pressurization air will escape  
and the fan will fail to maintain a positive pressure difference across  
access doors farther from the injection point.  
The multiple injection technique supplies pressurization air to the  
stairwell from more than one location. When access doors are open near  
one injection point, pressurization air escapes. However, other injection  
points maintain positive pressure differences across the remaining access  
doors.  
Figure 6: Sample single and multiple injection methods  
Elevator shaft smoke control  
Elevator shaft smoke control uses pressurization to prevent smoke  
migration through elevator shafts to floors remote from the source of the  
smoke. Elevator shaft smoke control is similar to stairwell smoke control.  
The stairwell pressurization techniques described previously are  
applicable to elevator shaft pressurization.  
Designating an elevator as a fire exit route is an acceptable, though not  
typical, practice. NFPA 101 (NFPA 2003, Life Safety Code) allows  
elevators to be second fire exit routes from air traffic control towers. For  
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Chapter 1 Smoke control overview  
more information about elevator shaft smoke control, refer to Klote, J.K.,  
and Milke, J.A. (Design of Smoke Management Systems, 1992).  
Atrium smoke control  
Atrium smoke control uses buoyancy to manage smoke in large-volume  
spaces with high ceilings. The buoyancy of hot smoke causes a plume of  
smoke to rise and form a smoke layer under the atrium ceiling. NFPA  
92B (NFPA 2000, Guide for Smoke Management Systems in Malls, Atria,  
and Large Areas) addresses smoke control for atria, malls, and large  
areas. Atrium smoke control techniques consist of smoke exhausting,  
natural smoke venting, and smoke filling.  
Smoke exhausting technique  
The smoke exhausting technique employs fans to exhaust smoke from the  
smoke layer under the ceiling. Exhausting prevents the smoke layer from  
descending and coming into contact with the occupants of the atrium  
(Figure 7). Effective smoke removal requires providing makeup air to the  
space. Makeup air replaces the air that is exhausted by the fans. If  
makeup air is not introduced, the space will develop a negative pressure,  
which will restrict smoke movement.  
Figure 7: Sample atrium smoke exhausting technique  
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Applications of smoke control methods  
Natural smoke venting technique  
The natural smoke venting technique employs vents in the atrium ceiling  
or high on the atrium walls to let smoke flow out without the aid of fans  
(Figure 8). The applicability of natural venting depends primarily on the  
size of the atrium, the outside temperature, and the wind conditions.  
When smoke is detected, all vents open simultaneously. The flow rate  
through a natural vent depends on the size of the vent, the depth of the  
smoke layer, and the temperature of the smoke.  
Note:  
Thermally activated vents are not appropriate for natural  
venting because of the time delay for opening.  
Figure 8: Sample natural smoke venting technique  
Smoke filling technique  
The smoke filling technique allows smoke to collect at the ceiling. Without  
fans to exhaust the smoke, the smoke layer grows thicker and descends.  
Atrium smoke filling is viable when an atrium is of such size that the  
time needed for the descending smoke to reach the occupants is greater  
than the time needed for evacuation.  
People movement calculations determine evacuation time. For  
information on people-movement calculations, refer to SFPE 1995, Fire  
Protection Engineering Handbook.  
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Chapter 1 Smoke control overview  
Underground building smoke control  
The smoke control objective for underground buildings is to contain and  
remove smoke from the alarm zone. The smoke control system fully  
exhausts the alarm zone and provides makeup air to replace the  
exhausted air.  
Setup and zoning of the smoke detectors is part of the fire alarm system  
engineering effort. The fire alarm system signals the smoke control  
system to start automatic smoke control operations.  
In NFPA 101 (NFPA 2003, Life Safety Code), chapter 11.7 states that an  
underground building with over 100 occupants must have an automatic  
smoke venting system. Chapter 14.3, for new educational occupancies,  
provides smoke zoning requirements. Chapter 12.4.3.3 states that  
automatic smoke control must be initiated when two smoke detectors in a  
smoke zone activate. Chapter 12.4.3.3 states that the system must be  
capable of at least 6 air changes per hour.  
Smoke detection and system activation  
The appropriate smoke detection and system activation approach  
depends on the specifics of the smoke control system and on the code  
requirements. Automatic activation has the advantage over manual  
activation. Automatic activation provides fast and accurate response.  
Each smoke control application has detection and activation  
requirements:  
Zoned smoke control  
Stairwell smoke control  
Elevator smoke control  
Atrium smoke exhaust  
Note:  
Smoke detectors located in HVAC ducts should not be the  
primary means of smoke control activation. Duct detectors have  
long response times and exhibit degraded reliability when  
clogged by airborne particles. However, a duct detector signal  
may be used in addition to a primary means of activation. For  
more information, refer to Tamura, G.T., Smoke Movement &  
Control in High-Rise Buildings.  
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Smoke detection and system activation  
Zoned smoke control detection and activation  
Zoned smoke control activation occurs on a signal from either a sprinkler  
water flow switch or a heat detector. For maximum benefit, the zoned  
smoke control system should only respond to the first alarm. Two design  
techniques that prevent detection of smoke in zones other than the first  
zone reporting are:  
Not activating smoke control on smoke detector signals  
Activating smoke control on signals from two separate smoke  
detectors located in the same zone  
Note:  
Zoned smoke control should not activate on a signal from a  
manual pull station (pull box). If pull box activation does not  
occur in the zone that contains the fire, activation incorrectly  
identifies the smoke zone.  
Stairwell smoke control detection and activation  
Stairwell smoke control activation occurs on an alarm signal from any  
device, including sprinkler water flow switches, heat detectors, smoke  
detectors, and manual pull stations (pull boxes). Most stairwell smoke  
control systems operate in the same manner regardless of the source of  
the alarm signal.  
Elevator smoke control detection and activation  
Elevator smoke control activation occurs on an alarm signal from any  
device, including sprinkler water flow switches, heat detectors, smoke  
detectors, and manual pull stations (pull boxes). Most elevator smoke  
control systems operate in the same manner regardless of the source of  
the alarm signal.  
Note:  
The description of elevator smoke control detection and  
activation does not apply to pressurization systems for  
elevators intended for occupant evacuation.  
Atrium smoke exhausting detection and activation  
Atrium smoke exhausting activation occurs on a signal from a beam  
smoke detector. A beam smoke detector consists of a light beam  
transmitter and a light beam sensor. Typically, the transmitter and the  
sensor are located apart from each other. However, when located together,  
the transmitter sends its beam to the opposite side of the atrium. At the  
opposite side, the beam reflects back to the sensor.  
Note:  
Atrium smoke control should not activate on a signal from a  
manual pull station (pull box). Atrium smoke exhaust systems  
have different operating modes depending on fire location.  
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Chapter 1 Smoke control overview  
Note:  
Atrium smoke control should not activate on signals from  
sprinkler water flow switches or heat detectors. Since the  
temperature of a smoke plume decreases with height,  
activation by these devices may not provide reliable results.  
Beam smoke detectors minimize interference problems created by  
stratified hot air under atrium ceilings. On hot days or days with a high  
solar load on the atrium roof, a hot layer of air may form under the  
ceiling. The layer can exceed 120° F (50° C). The smoke from an atrium  
fire may not be hot enough to penetrate the layer and reach ceiling-  
mounted smoke detectors (Figure 9).  
Beam-detector installation typically conforms to one of two  
configurations: vertical grid or horizontal grid.  
Figure 9: Sample stratification  
Vertical grid  
The vertical grid is the most common beam detector configuration. A  
number of beam detectors, located at different levels under the ceiling,  
detect the formation and thickening of a smoke layer. The bottom of the  
grid is at the lowest expected smoke stratification level.  
Horizontal grid  
The horizontal grid is an alternate beam detector configuration A number  
of beam detectors, located at different levels under the ceiling, detect the  
rising smoke plume. Beam detectors are located:  
Below the lowest expected smoke stratification level  
Close enough to each other to ensure intersection with the plume  
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Design approaches to smoke control  
Design approaches to smoke control  
Smoke control methods provide a mechanical means of directing smoke  
movement in an enclosed space. The application of one or more methods  
to a building provides a building smoke control system. Design  
approaches to smoke control include the no smoke, tenability, and  
dedicated system approaches.  
No-smoke approach  
The no-smoke approach provides a smoke control system that prevents  
smoke from coming into contact with people or property. Almost all smoke  
control systems are based on the no-smoke approach.  
While the objective is to eliminate all smoke, some smoke occurs in  
protected spaces. By molecular diffusion, minute quantities of smoke  
travel against pressurization and airflow. These very low concentrations  
of airborne combustion products are detected by their odor. These and  
higher levels of diffused contaminants may not result in high-risk  
conditions.  
Tenability approach  
The tenability approach provides a smoke control system that allows  
smoke to come into contact with occupants. However, in this approach,  
the smoke control system dilutes the by-products of combustion before  
they come into contact with people. In atria applications, the natural  
mixing of air into a smoke plume can result in significant dilution.  
Tenability criteria vary with the application but may include:  
Exposure to toxic gases  
Exposure to heat  
Visibility  
Dedicated system approach  
The dedicated system approach, such as stairwell and elevator smoke  
control, provides a system that has the sole purpose of managing smoke.  
It does not function during normal building comfort control.  
The advantages of the dedicated system approach include:  
The interface is simple, since there are few components to bypass.  
Modification of controls after installation is unlikely.  
Easy operation and control.  
Limited reliance on other building systems.  
The disadvantages of the dedicated system approach include:  
Component failures may go undiscovered since they do not affect  
normal building comfort control.  
Building systems may require more physical space.  
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Chapter 1 Smoke control overview  
Design considerations for smoke  
control  
Two occurrences will hinder smoke control:  
Plugholing  
Smoke feedback  
Smoke control systems should be designed to address the problems that  
are caused by plugholing and smoke feedback.  
Plugholing  
Plugholing occurs when an exhaust fan pulls fresh air into the smoke  
exhaust (Figure 10). Plugholing decreases the smoke exhaust and  
increases the smoke layer depth. It has the potential of exposing  
occupants to smoke.  
The maximum flow of smoke (Q  
) exhausted without plugholing  
max  
depends on the depth of the smoke layer and the temperature of the  
smoke. If the required total smoke exhaust is greater than Q  
,
max  
additional exhaust vents will eliminate plugholing. The distance between  
vents must be great enough that the air and smoke flow near one vent  
does not affect the air and smoke flow near another vent.  
Figure 10: Sample plugholing  
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Design considerations for smoke control  
Smoke feedback  
Smoke feedback occurs when smoke enters a pressurization fan intake  
and flows into protected spaces. Design techniques reduce the probability  
of smoke feedback:  
Supply air intakes located below openings from which smoke might  
flow, such as building exhausts, smoke shaft outlets and elevator  
vents.  
Automatic shutdown capability to stop the system in the event of  
smoke feedback.  
For more information on smoke feedback, refer to SFPE 1995, Fire  
Protection Engineering Handbook.  
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Chapter 1 Smoke control overview  
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Chapter 2  
Pre-installation  
considerations  
This chapter provides considerations that must be given prior to  
installing an engineered smoke control system. The pre-installation  
considerations are:  
Zone operating modes  
Associated equipment  
Equipment supervision  
System testing  
Alarm response  
Automatic smoke control matrix  
Response times  
Note:  
In this chapter, the application of the smoke control system as a  
zoned system is for general practice and conforms to national  
codes and publications. In all cases, the local authority having  
jurisdiction (AHJ) has the authority to modify requirements.  
IMPORTANT  
The local AHJ must approve the proposed system before installation  
begins.  
Zone operating modes  
Zone operating modes are a pre-installation consideration. The design of  
a building smoke control system is the responsibility of the building  
architects and engineers. In the National Fire Protection Association  
(NFPA) publication NFPA 101 (NFPA 2003, Life Safety Code), chapter  
11.8 provides general high rise building requirements. Chapter 12–42  
provides high-rise building requirements based on type of occupancy.  
Both chapters may apply to a specific building.  
Understanding the smoke control system operating modes enables the  
effective layout of system controls. One of four operating modes governs  
each zone: normal, alarm, adjacent, or unaffected.  
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Chapter 2 Pre-installation considerations  
Normal mode  
A zone is in normal mode when no fire, smoke, or sprinkler alarms are  
present in the building. In some zoning systems, a zone may be in normal  
mode if an alarm condition is present in the building but the zone is not  
affected. In normal mode, the smoke control system is inactive.  
Alarm mode  
A zone is in alarm mode when it is the origin of the first fire, smoke, or  
sprinkler alarm. In alarm mode, the smoke control system operates fans  
and dampers to protect adjacent and unaffected zones and provide a  
smoke exhaust route for the alarm zone.  
Adjacent mode  
A zone is in adjacent mode when it is next to the alarm zone. However, in  
some zoning systems, zones that are not next to the alarm zone may be  
designated as adjacent zones. Other zoning systems may designate all  
non-alarm zones as adjacent zones. Codes do not state which zones are  
adjacent. In adjacent mode, the smoke control system sets fans and  
dampers to pressurize adjacent zones in order to contain the smoke in the  
alarm zone.  
Unaffected mode  
A zone is in unaffected mode when it is neither the alarm zone nor an  
adjacent zone and an alarm is present in the building. In large buildings,  
there may be many zones that are not near the alarm zone. Codes do not  
state which zones are unaffected. In unaffected mode, the smoke control  
system may shut down and isolate unaffected zones. Or, the smoke  
control system may allow unaffected zones to operate in normal mode.  
Actual system operation depends on the design of the smoke control  
system.  
Associated equipment  
Equipment associated with the smoke control system design is a pre-  
installation consideration prior to setting up the smoke control system  
controls. Associated equipment includes: fire alarm system equipment,  
fire alarm control panel, firefighter’s smoke control station, and smoke  
control system equipment.  
Fire alarm system equipment  
The building fire alarm system is responsible for detecting an alarm  
condition, alerting occupants by audible and visual means, and signaling  
the smoke control system. Fire alarm system equipment includes: area,  
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Associated equipment  
beam, and duct smoke detectors; manual pull stations; and sprinkler flow  
devices.  
Note:  
Fire alarm system equipment is neither furnished nor installed  
by Trane.  
Area smoke detectors  
Area smoke detectors detect the presence of smoke at the ceiling. When  
activated, an area smoke detector signals the fire alarm system. The  
zoning of area smoke detectors must reflect the zoning of the building.  
Note:  
Under certain conditions, heat detectors or heat with rate of  
rise detectors are preferable to area smoke detectors.  
Beam smoke detectors  
Beam smoke detectors detect the presence of smoke beneath the ceiling.  
When activated, a beam smoke detector signals the fire alarm system. In  
atrium applications, beam detectors may replace area smoke detectors.  
Beam smoke detectors minimize interference problems created by  
stratified hot air under the atrium ceiling.  
Duct smoke detectors  
Duct smoke detectors detect smoke in building air-distribution system  
ductwork. When smoke is present, a signal from the detector deactivates  
the fans in the system in which the detector is installed. However, smoke  
control system commands must override fan deactivation by a duct smoke  
detector.  
In NFPA 90A (NFPA 2002, Standard for the Installation of Air  
Conditioning and Ventilating Systems), section 6.4.2.1 provides the  
requirements for duct smoke detectors. Supply duct smoke detectors must  
be located downstream of the system filters and ahead of any branch  
connection. In mixing systems, this is usually after the return air  
connection. Duct smoke detectors may be required in the supply duct of  
all air-handling systems greater than 2000 cubic feet per minute (CFM)  
and at each floor with a return air volume greater than 15,000 CFM.  
Two exceptions limit the use of duct smoke detectors:  
Duct smoke detectors are not required in 100% exhaust air systems.  
Duct smoke detector use is limited if area smoke detectors cover the  
entire space served by the return air distribution. Since area smoke  
detectors usually cover entire floors, the typical system only requires  
one duct smoke detector in the common return duct.  
Manual pull stations  
Manual pull stations enable occupants to report a fire. When activated, a  
manual pull station signals the fire alarm system. A manual pull station  
alarm must not initiate the automatic operation of the smoke control  
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Chapter 2 Pre-installation considerations  
system, since a pull station is not necessarily activated in the zone that  
contains the smoke or fire.  
Sprinkler flow devices  
Fire alarm system equipment may include two types of sprinkler flow  
devices: sprinkler flow switches and tamper switches.  
Sprinkler flow switches, installed in fire sprinkler lines, notify the fire  
alarm control panel (FACP) of flow in the sprinkler lines. The FACP  
transmits an alarm to the smoke control system. The smoke control  
system may initiate automatic smoke control from the alarm. Sprinkler  
zones must coincide with the zone layout of the building and the zoning of  
the FACP.  
Tamper switches are installed on manual shutoff valves in the fire  
sprinkler system. The switches provide a supervisory alarm signal to the  
fire alarm system if the shutoff valve closes. Alarms activated by tamper  
switches must not initiate the automatic operation of the smoke control  
system.  
Fire alarm control panel  
The FACP receives alarm signals. If the FACP receives an alarm, it  
notifies the smoke control system of the alarm and the alarm location.  
The zone layout of the FACP must match the zone layout of the building  
to ensure that the FACP is capable of sending accurate signals to the  
smoke control system. The mechanical and electrical consulting engineers  
coordinate the building zone layout to the FACP layout to ensure a proper  
interface.  
Firefighter’s smoke control station  
The firefighter’s smoke control station (FSCS) enables firefighters to take  
manual control of the smoke control system. The FSCS must be located in  
an easily accessible but secure location. The normal location is near the  
FACP.  
IMPORTANT  
The FSCS must be listed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) as suitable  
for enabling firefighters to take manual control of the smoke control  
system.  
Commands from the FSCS control panel are the highest priority  
commands in the system. They override automatic control of smoke  
control system components.  
The FSCS provides a graphic representation of the building. It shows  
smoke control zones and associated smoke control mechanical equipment.  
The panel includes: lights, an audible trouble LED, and manual switches.  
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Associated equipment  
Lights  
The FSCS provides lights that show the mode of each zone and the status  
of each piece of smoke control mechanical equipment. The status lights  
must conform to a specific color code scheme (Table 3).  
Table 3. Pilot lamp color codes  
Color  
Description  
Green  
Red  
Fan On or damper Open  
Fan Off or damper Closed  
Yellow (or Amber)  
Verification of Operation Status light. Fan or  
damper not in commanded position.  
Audible trouble indicator  
The FSCS may provide an audible trouble indicator with a silence switch.  
If provided, the indicator alerts personnel to system trouble.  
Manual switches  
The FSCS provides manual switches that operate smoke control system  
fans and dampers. Normally, there is one manual switch for each piece of  
equipment. However, in complex smoke control systems that have very  
large fan systems, one switch may operate more than one piece of  
equipment. This allows the smoke control system to coordinate smoke  
control functions without damaging equipment. For example, the manual  
switches that control large central fan systems may also operate the  
mixing dampers to prevent tripping the high- and low-pressure cutouts.  
Manual switches at the FSCS are either 2- or 3-position switches. Labels  
show the current state of each switch (Table 4).  
Table 4. Switch state descriptions  
Switch state  
Equipment  
ON-AUTO-OFF  
Fans controlled by the smoke control system or  
other automatic control system  
OPEN-AUTO-CLOSE  
Dampers controlled by the smoke control  
system or other automatic control system  
ON-OFF  
Fans only controlled from the FSCS  
OPEN-CLOSE  
Dampers only controlled from the FSCS  
Smoke control system equipment  
The smoke control system receives alarm signals from the FACP and  
manual command signals from the FSCS. On receiving alarm signals  
and/or manual commands, the smoke control system controls the  
mechanical smoke control equipment. Manual command signals from the  
FSCS take priority over alarm signals.  
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Chapter 2 Pre-installation considerations  
The smoke control system controls fans and positions dedicated and  
nondedicated dampers, both in the smoke control zones and at the air-  
handling systems. It may also position dampers or air modulation devices  
such as variable-air-volume (VAV) boxes serving the smoke control zones.  
Equipment associated with the smoke control system includes: dampers,  
fans, verification of operation equipment, and the Tracer™ MP581  
programmable controller.  
For VAV-based systems, there must be some form of duct pressure relief  
on each floor or in each smoke control zone. In smoke control mode, all  
return and supply dampers will be set to 100% open. If the VAV dampers  
are closed when this occurs, the duct pressure may be enough to damage  
duct work. To avoid this possibility, duct pressure relief dampers, either  
DDC or mechanically controlled, should be installed in the ductwork for  
each smoke control zone.  
It should be noted that careful sizing of smoke control supply air damper  
and relief damper is necessary to use smoke purge and protect dampers.  
In contrast to a VAV system, it is not necessary to provide separate duct  
pressure relief in constant volume as this is a form of dedicated smoke  
purge with supply and return/exhaust dampers already open. Supply  
dampers should be sized such that any one damper can spill an adequate  
amount of air.  
Outdoor air, return air, relief, and exhaust dampers  
A nondedicated comfort control system controls outdoor air, return air,  
relief, and exhaust dampers. In normal operation, the return damper  
operates in opposition to the outdoor air damper. However, during smoke  
control system activation, all three dampers may be closed  
simultaneously to isolate the air-handling system for smoke control  
operations.  
An elevator shaft damper, located at the top of a hoistway, relieves  
pressure generated during elevator operation. Since elevator shaft  
dampers are usually open, the natural stack effect of the building will  
tend to distribute smoke through the building via the elevator shafts.  
Some codes require a key-operated switch at the main floor lobby to close  
the elevator shaft damper. With local approval, this switch can be located  
at the FSCS.  
Smoke dampers  
A smoke damper is located in any duct that penetrates a smoke zone  
perimeter. Smoke dampers that are listed by Underwriters Laboratories  
(UL) are subject to more stringent leakage tests than are standard  
control dampers. The listing usually includes the control actuator as part  
of the smoke damper assembly, but does not include the end switches.  
IMPORTANT  
Smoke dampers must have a Underwriters Laboratories (UL) listing for  
smoke control applications (UL 555S).  
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Associated equipment  
Smoke dampers are ordered as a complete assembly. They are typically  
two-position dampers and have end switches that indicate the fully open  
and fully closed position. The switches are installed in the field. Dampers  
actuate with two types of control: pneumatic actuation and electrical  
actuation.  
Note:  
Switches that are part of the actuator do not provide an  
acceptable indication of actual damper travel. They only show  
the operation of the actuator and not the actual position of the  
damper.  
For pneumatically actuated smoke dampers, the operating pressure  
range (spring range) and the normal position of the damper must be  
specified. Typically, the normal position will be closed (normally closed).  
The spring range must be high (8–13 lbs) to give the most close-off force.  
Uniform Building Code 905.10.2 requires hard drawn, type L, copper  
pneumatic piping for smoke control system components. The air source  
must have automatic isolation valves separating it from pneumatic  
control devices not used for smoke control. Since the smoke control  
system will open and close smoke dampers, it may require an air pressure  
monitoring switch. If air pressure is lost in the smoke damper control  
lines, the switch transmits a Trouble indication.  
For electrically actuated smoke dampers, the operating voltages are  
24 Vac and 120 Vac. It is usually not possible to get actuators with DC  
operating voltages. A spring on the actuator positions the damper if  
power is lost. The power-loss position is typically the actuator closed  
(normally closed) position.  
The electrical power that operates the smoke damper must be from an  
emergency power source and is monitored at a point after the last  
disconnect. The loss of electrical power initiates a Trouble indication.  
Fans  
Fans need additional control components for smoke control operation.  
Supply/return fan systems require independent control of fans. Multiple  
fan system Start and Stop points bypass some safety devices.  
VAV systems require the smoke control system to be capable of either  
commanding the fans to full capacity or a higher capacity than comfort  
controls would command. High-pressure safeties are not bypassed in  
smoke control operation. Care must be taken to ensure that increased  
capacities do not trip high-pressure cutout devices. Excess pressures  
could deactivate fan systems, making them unusable for smoke control.  
Verification of operation equipment  
Codes require that the smoke control system provide verification of  
operation status indications at the FSCS. To accomplish this, the smoke  
control system provides devices that monitor the actual operation of fans  
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Chapter 2 Pre-installation considerations  
and dampers: status switches, differential pressure switches, airflow  
paddle switches, current-sensing relays, limit switches, and end switches.  
Status switches at fans and dampers monitor the operation of the devices.  
Multiple binary inputs at the Tracer MP581s verify the On and Off status  
of fans and the Open and Closed status of dampers. If a status switch  
does not confirm the commanded (automatic or manual) operation, a Fail  
indicator activates at the FSCS. Failure detection must incorporate a  
time delay to give the devices time to function.  
Differential pressure switches, airflow paddle switches, and current-  
sensing relays monitor fan operations. Differential switches piped across  
fan and paddle switches in the air stream can give erroneous indications.  
IMPORTANT  
A current-sensing relay is the preferred way to confirm the operating  
status of a fan.  
Limit switches and end switches monitor dampers. The switches activate  
damper Open and Closed signals for the FSCS. The damper blades  
activate the switches. Some codes require two switches in order to sense  
both the fully opened and fully closed position of the damper.  
Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
The Tracer MP581 must have multiple binary inputs to verify the On and  
Off operation of fans. It must also have multiple binary inputs to verify  
the Open and Closed positions of dampers.  
Equipment supervision  
Equipment supervision is a pre-installation consideration. Smoke control  
equipment must be supervised to ensure it is operational. Supervision  
techniques consist of confirming communications among system control  
panels, confirming operation in normal use situations, and performing  
weekly self-tests.  
Confirming communications among all system control panels is a  
supervision technique that monitors basic system integrity. If any panel  
loses its communications, a Trouble alert is sent to the FSCS.  
Normal use operations confirm the integrity of field point wiring for  
nondedicated equipment. Nondedicated equipment provides conditioned  
air to the building daily. When nondedicated equipment is not  
operational, comfort conditions deteriorate and building tenants notify  
maintenance personnel.  
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System testing  
System testing  
System testing is a pre-installation consideration. To verify proper  
operation, the smoke control system must include provisions for:  
automatic weekly self-testing and manual periodic testing.  
Automatic weekly self-testing  
As UL requires, the smoke control system provides automated weekly  
self-tests for dedicated smoke control system components. The self-tests  
activate components and monitor operation. They provide verification of  
operation status indications to the FSCS that show if the component  
passed or failed the test. Automatic weekly self-tests do not function if a  
smoke or fire alarm is present.  
Manual periodic testing  
As NFPA 92A (NFPA 2000, Recommended Practice for Smoke Control  
Systems), chapter 5.4 requires, the smoke control system provides a  
manual testing capability. It provides annual tests for nondedicated  
system components and semi-annual tests for dedicated system  
components. The semi-annual tests are required in addition to the  
automated weekly self-tests for dedicated smoke control system  
components. Building maintenance personnel schedule and conduct the  
tests.  
The manual periodic tests verify smoke control system responses to alarm  
zone inputs. Some of the manual testing must be performed with the  
system operating on emergency power, if applicable. An alarm must be  
generated in each zone. The system and equipment responses must be  
verified and recorded. Manual periodic testing should occur when the  
building is not occupied.  
Alarm response  
Alarm response is a pre-installation consideration. NFPA 92A (NFPA  
1996, Recommended Practice for Smoke Control Systems), section 3.4.5.5  
requires the automatic response to an alarm to be based on the location of  
the first alarm. Subsequent alarms from other zones must be ignored for  
the purposes of automatic response.  
Automatic smoke control matrix  
An automatic smoke control matrix (Table 5 on page 28, dedicated;  
Table 6 on page 28, nondedicated) shows each piece of mechanical  
equipment and each building zone. The matrix shows the automatic  
response of each piece of equipment to an initial alarm for each smoke  
zone. It also shows the mode of each zone based on an alarm in another  
zone. Commands from the FSCS may override the automatic responses.  
The matrix must be engineered for a specific project.  
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Chapter 2 Pre-installation considerations  
Table 5. Sample automatic smoke control matrix (dedicated)  
First smoke zone in alarm  
Equipment  
Zone 1  
On  
Zone 2  
On  
Zone 3  
On  
Zone 4  
On  
Main sup fan  
Main R/E fan  
On  
On  
On  
On  
Stair press fan  
1st flr sup dmpr  
1st flr ret dmpr  
On  
On  
On  
On  
Close  
Open  
Open  
Close  
Close  
Open  
Open  
Close  
Close  
Close  
Adjacent  
Alarm  
Adjacent  
Unaffected  
Close  
Close  
Open  
Close  
Close  
Open  
Open  
Close  
Unaffected  
Adjacent  
Alarm  
Adjacent  
Close  
Close  
Close  
Close  
Open  
2nd flr sup dmpr Open  
2nd flr ret dmpr  
3rd flr sup dmpr  
3rd flr ret dmpr  
4th flr sup dmpr  
4th flr ret dmpr  
Smoke zone 1  
Smoke zone 2  
Smoke zone 3  
Smoke zone 4  
Close  
Close  
Close  
Close  
Close  
Open  
Close  
Close  
Alarm  
Unaffected  
Unaffected  
Adjacent  
Alarm  
Adjacent  
Unaffected  
Unaffected  
Table 6. Sample automatic smoke control matrix (nondedicated)  
First smoke zone in alarm  
Equipment  
Zone 1  
On  
Zone 2  
On  
Zone 3  
On  
Zone 4  
On  
Main sup fan  
Main R/E fan  
On  
On  
On  
On  
Stair press fan  
1st flr sup dmpr  
1st flr ret dmpr  
On  
On  
On  
On  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Adjacent  
Alarm  
Adjacent  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Adjacent  
Alarm  
Adjacent  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Adjacent  
Alarm  
2nd flr sup dmpr Open  
2nd flr ret dmpr  
3rd flr sup dmpr  
3rd flr ret dmpr  
4th flr sup dmpr  
4th flr ret dmpr  
Smoke zone 1  
Smoke zone 2  
Smoke zone 3  
Smoke zone 4  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Open  
Alarm  
Adjacent  
Open  
Open  
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Response times  
Response times  
Response times are a pre-installation consideration. For a discussion of  
response time requirements for smoke control systems, refer to NFPA  
92A (NFPA 2000, Recommended Practice for Smoke Control Systems),  
section 3.4.3.3 and NFPA 92B (NFPA 2000, Guide for Smoke Management  
Systems in Malls, Atria, and Large Areas), section 4.4.4. The activation  
sequence should be accomplished so as to avoid damage to the equipment.  
For example, the dampers should be opened before starting the fans.  
Table 7 shows the required response times, as published in the referenced  
NFPA documentation.  
Table 7. NFPA response time requirements  
Component  
Response time  
Damper operation to desired state  
(open or closed)  
75 seconds  
Fan operation to desired state  
(on or off)  
60 seconds  
Note:  
Some building codes such as the Uniform Building Code have  
much more stringent response times. As with all of the  
considerations discussed in this chapter, the local authority  
having jurisdiction (AHJ) has the final word.  
Cable distance considerations  
Table 8 on page 30 given cabling distance requirements for data of two  
different types:  
Hardware based, such as from analog or binary inputs and outputs  
Communication based, such as from the Lontalk communication link  
or I/O bus (EX2)  
The table also presents different cabling distance requirements  
depending on whether the data path is monitored or unmonitored.  
There are no stated distance limitations for monitored information paths.  
The maximum distance allowed is the same as the manufacturer’s stated  
maximum distance for that particular data type. A data path is  
considered monitored if some notification for opens, ground-shorts, and  
conductor shorts is available and used (NFPA 72A [2002] section 4.4.7.1).  
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Chapter 2 Pre-installation considerations  
Note:  
Process verification, sometimes referred to as end-to-end testing, can  
be considered a means of monitoring data (NFPA 92A [2000] section  
3.4.6). Communicated values are an example of process verification.  
A communication link can be monitored for quality, and the system  
can be notified if there is a communications failure.  
Distance limitations for unmonitored data paths are severely limited.  
Table 8. Cabling practices and restraints  
Maximum distance  
Monitored data paths  
Type  
Refer to the best wiring practices  
given in BMTX-SVN01A-EN for  
installing Lontalk communication  
links.  
Trane LonTalk communication link  
Refer to the wiring requirements  
given in CNT-SVN01C-EN for the I/O  
bus wiring between the Tracer  
MP580/581 and the EX2s.  
Tracer MP580/581 EX2 I/O bus com-  
munication link  
Unmonitored data paths  
3 ft (1 m)  
Unmonitored distance from pilot  
relay or controller output to actuator  
(NFPA 72A [2002] section 6.15.2.2)  
20 ft (6 m) and in conduit  
(NFPA 72A [2002] section 4.4.7.1.8)  
FACP to Tracer MP581/EX2 interface  
wiring  
FSCS to Tracer MP581/EX2 interface  
wiring  
Note: Questions regarding this information given in this table should be  
directed to the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ), if possible.  
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Chapter 3  
Installation diagrams  
Smoke control system overview  
An engineered smoke control system can be added on to a Tracer  
Summitbuilding automation system. The system layout, wiring  
requirements, and capacities for smoke control applications differ from  
Tracer Summit systems that do not employ smoke control.  
A smoke control installation includes a Trane building control unit  
(BCU), the Tracer MP581 programmable controller, and wiring. These  
devices should be wired on the smoke control communication link.  
Devices that are a part of the Tracer Summit system, but are not used by  
the smoke control system, must be on a separate communication link.  
IMPORTANT  
For dedicated smoke control system, only Tracer MP581s used for  
smoke control are allowed on the LonTalk communication link. Tracer  
MP581s and other LonTalk UCMs not involved in smoke control must  
be connected to other BCUs. A nondedicated smoke control system can  
have other LonTalk devices connected to the communication link.  
Installation diagrams consist of system riser and system termination  
diagrams. These diagrams provide requirements and restrictions to the  
installer.  
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Chapter 3 Installation diagrams  
System riser diagrams  
System riser diagrams (Figure 11) show panel locations, power  
requirements, power sources, and interconnecting wiring requirements.  
They also show the wiring that must be in conduit.  
Figure 11. Sample system riser diagram  
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System termination diagrams  
System termination diagrams  
System termination diagrams show wire terminations at panels and field  
devices. Guidelines for creating system termination diagrams include:  
Diagrams for Tracer MP581 panels may be formatted as lists.  
Diagrams for field devices show: normal state, expected operation,  
and voltage requirements. An example of a normal state notation is  
normally open. An example of an expected operation description is  
closed contact opens damper.  
Diagrams for field devices not furnished by Trane are created during  
installation. After installation, the diagrams become part of the as-  
built documentation.  
Diagrams for the control of starters and variable flow devices (VFDs)  
must show the required relays and connections for the hierarchy of  
control (Figure 12 on page 33). Relays must enable starters and VFDs  
to bypass some safety devices and the local manual switches. Also,  
manual controls from the firefighter’s smoke control station (FSCS)  
must be wired to give them the highest priority of control.  
Figure 12. Sample fan starter wiring diagram  
Note: Pressure cutouts, duct smoke detectors and auto shutdown are two-pole.  
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Chapter 3 Installation diagrams  
Tracer MP581 to FSCS wiring  
The FSCS panel is designed for a specific smoke control system  
(Figure 13). The FSCS panel comes from a listed vendor and is provided  
as part of the smoke control system. Before ordering the panel, UL must  
approve front panel drawings that show lights and switches.  
Figure 13. Sample FSCS panel  
34  
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System termination diagrams  
The wiring between a Tracer MP581 and the FSCS is non-supervised and  
power limited. Additional requirements are:  
Tracer MP581 and FSCS must be in the same room.  
Wiring between the Tracer MP581 and FSCS must be in conduit.  
Wiring distance cannot exceed 20 ft.  
Wire must be #18 AWG.  
The number of wires needed between the Tracer MP581(s) and the FSCS  
is determined by the total number of zones and manual override switches  
at the FSCS. Multiple Tracer MP581 panels may be required to monitor  
and control the FSCS. One Tracer MP581 controls the trouble LED and  
the Sonalert audible alarm of the FSCS, as well as supplying 24 Vac  
power to operate the lamp test relay(s).  
Table 9 shows wires for a typical Tracer MP581 that controls the FSCS  
trouble LED and the Sonalert audible alarm.  
Figure 14 on page 36 shows Tracer MP581 to FSCS wiring.  
Table 9. Wires for a Tracer MP581 that control FSCS trouble LED and  
Sonalert alarm  
Cables per  
Type of  
Tracer  
Function  
wiring  
MP581  
1–22  
24 Vac  
24 Vac  
24 Vac  
24 Vac  
24 Vac  
24 Vac  
22 Vdc  
Binary output to light LED on FSCS  
Binary output controlling trouble LED  
Binary output controlling Sonalert alarm LED  
Binary output controlling Sonalert alarm  
“Hot” power wire for the FSCS lamp test relays  
Common  
1
1
1
1
1
1–36  
Two binary input wires per FSCS switch (up to  
36 switches per Tracer MP581)  
1
1
22 Vdc  
22 Vdc  
Binary input wire for lamp test signal  
Common  
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Chapter 3 Installation diagrams  
Figure 14. Tracer MP581 to FSCS wiring  
36  
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System termination diagrams  
Tracer MP581 to FACP wiring  
The wiring between the Tracer MP581 and the FACP is non-supervised  
and power limited. In addition:  
Tracer MP581 and FACP must be in the same room.  
Wiring between the Tracer MP581 and FACP must be in conduit.  
Wiring distance cannot exceed 20 ft.  
Wire must be #18 AWG.  
The number of wires needed between the Tracer MP581(s) and the FACP  
is determined by the total number of zones in the fire alarm system.  
Multiple Tracer MP581 panels may be required to monitor and control  
the FACP.  
Table 10 gives wiring information for a typical Tracer MP581 that  
communicates to an FACP.  
Figure 15 on page 38 shows the details for wiring a Tracer MP581 to an  
FACP.  
Table 10. Wiring for a typical Tracer MP581 that communicates to an  
FACP  
Cables  
Typeof  
perTracer  
MP581  
Function  
wiring  
1–36  
22 Vdc  
Two binary input wires per FSCS switch  
(up to 36 per Tracer MP581)  
1
22 Vdc  
Common  
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Chapter 3 Installation diagrams  
Figure 15. Tracer MP581 to FACP wiring  
38  
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Chapter 4  
Installing the Tracer Summit  
BMTX BCU  
Mounting the hardware  
Make sure that the selected location meets the operating environment  
requirements described in this section and clearance requirements  
described in this Figure 16 on page 40. The BCU must be installed  
indoors. Trane recommends locating it:  
Near the controlled equipment to reduce wiring costs  
Where service personnel have easy access  
Where it is easy to see and to interact with the operator display  
Where public access is restricted to minimize the possibility of  
tampering or vandalism  
CAUTION  
Avoid equipment damage!  
Install the BCU in a location that is out of direct sunlight. Failure to do  
so may cause it to overheat.  
Operating environment requirements  
Make sure that the operating environment conforms to the specifications  
listed in Table 11. Enclosure dimensions are illustrated in Figure 17 on  
Table 11. Operating environment specifications  
Temperature  
Humidity  
From 32°F to 120°F (0°C to 49°C)  
10–90% non-condensing  
Power requirements North America: 120 Vac  
1 A maximum, 1 phase, 50 or 60 Hz  
Weight  
Mounting surface must be able to support 60 lb (28 kg)  
Dimensions  
16 ½ in. × 14 ¾ in. × 5 ½ in.  
(418 mm × 373 mm × 140 mm)  
Altitude  
6500 ft (2000 m)  
Category 3  
Installation  
Pollution  
Degree 2  
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Chapter 4 Installing the Tracer Summit BMTX BCU  
Clearances  
Make sure that the mounting location has enough room to meet the mini-  
mum clearances shown in Figure 16.  
Figure 16. Minimum clearances for the BMTX BCU enclosure  
12 in. (30 cm)  
12 in. (30 cm)  
24 in. (60 cm)  
to fully open door  
12 in. (30 cm)  
50 in. (130 cm) recommended  
36 in. (90 cm)  
40  
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Mounting the hardware  
Figure 17. BMTX BCU enclosure dimensions  
Top view  
Front view  
Left view  
Right view  
Bottom view  
Note: Six of the twelve knockouts are dual-  
sized knockouts for 1-inch (25 mm) and  
0.75-inch (19 mm) conduit.  
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Chapter 4 Installing the Tracer Summit BMTX BCU  
Mounting the back of the enclosure  
The back of the enclosure is shipped with the termination board installed  
inside it.  
IMPORTANT  
The termination board should be shipped with the grounding screw  
installed. Verify this by checking the location shown in Figure 18.  
The enclosure door is shipped separately. If the door has already been  
attached to the enclosure back, remove it.  
To mount the back of the enclosure:  
1. Using the enclosure back as a template, mark the location of the four  
mounting holes on the mounting surface (see Figure 18).  
Figure 18. Enclosure mounting holes  
Termination board  
grounding screw  
(must be installed)  
Mounting holes  
42  
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Wiring high-voltage ac power  
2. Set the enclosure back aside and drill holes for the screws at the  
marked locations.  
Drill holes for #10 (5 mm) screws or #10 wall anchors. Use wall  
anchors if the mounting surface is dry wall or masonry.  
3. Insert wall anchors if needed.  
4. Secure the enclosure back to the mounting surface with the supplied  
#10 (5 mm) screws.  
Wiring high-voltage ac power  
Verifying model number for local power requirements  
Table 12 lists the available BMTX BCU model. You can find the model  
number on the shipping label or on the product label inside the enclosure.  
Table 12. BMTX BCU model number  
Model  
Description  
BMTX001DAB000  
BMTX BCU, 120 Vac, UUKL listed  
To ensure proper operation of the BMTX BCU, install the power supply  
circuit in accordance with the following guidelines:  
The BCU must receive power from a dedicated power circuit. Failure  
to comply may cause control malfunctions.  
A disconnect switch for the dedicated power circuit must be near the  
controller, within easy reach of the operator, and marked as the dis-  
connecting device for the controller.  
High-voltage power-wire conduits or wire bundles must not contain  
input/output wires. Failure to comply may cause the controller to mal-  
function due to electrical noise.  
High-voltage power wiring must comply with the National Electrical  
Code (NEC) and applicable local electrical codes.  
High-voltage wiring requires three-wire 120/230 Vac service (line,  
neutral, ground).  
Note:  
The transformer voltage utilization range is 120 Vac. The panel  
automatically detects whether the current is 50 or 60 cycle.  
To connect high-voltage power wires:  
ƽWARNING  
Hazardous voltage!  
Before making electrical connections, lock open the supply-power dis-  
connect switch. Failure to do so may cause death or serious injury.  
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Chapter 4 Installing the Tracer Summit BMTX BCU  
CAUTION  
Use copper conductors only!  
Unit terminals are designed to accept copper conductors only. Other  
conductors may cause equipment damage.  
1. Lock open the supply-power disconnect switch.  
2. At the top-right corner of the enclosure, remove the knockout for ½ in  
(13 mm) conduit.  
3. Open or remove the enclosure door if it has already installed.  
4. Inside of the enclosure at the top-right corner, remove the high-volt-  
age area cover plate.  
5. Feed the high-voltage power wire into the enclosure.  
6. Connect the line wire to the L terminal as shown in Figure 19 on page  
45.  
7. Connect the neutral wire to the N terminal.  
8. Connect the green ground wire to the chassis ground screw. The  
ground wire must be continuous back to the circuit breaker panel.  
9. Replace the cover plate.  
ƽWARNING  
Hazardous voltage!  
The cover plate must be in place when the BCU is operating. Failure to  
replace the cover plate could result in death or serious injury.  
10. On a label, record the location of the circuit breaker panel and the  
electrical circuit. Attach the label to the cover plate.  
44  
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Wiring high-voltage ac power  
Figure 19. AC wiring  
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Chapter 4 Installing the Tracer Summit BMTX BCU  
EMI/RFI considerations  
Take care to isolate HVAC controllers from electromagnetic interference  
(EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). Such interference can be  
caused by radio and TV towers, hospital diagnostic equipment, radar  
equipment, electric power transmission equipment, and so on. In addi-  
tion, take care to prevent the BMTX BCU from radiating EMI and/or RFI.  
The BMTX BCU is equipped with EMI/RFI filters that trap RFI to  
ground. In most situations, a good earth ground will reduce EMI/RFI  
problems by acting as a drain for EMI and RFI. If the BMTX BCU is  
receiving or radiating interference, make sure that the earth ground is  
good. Do not assume that the building conduit is an adequate ground.  
Checking the earth ground  
Though a proper earth ground is especially important in areas of high  
EMI or RFI, always check the quality of the ground, regardless of  
location.  
ƽWARNING  
Hazardous voltage!  
The cover plate must be in place when the BCU is operating. Failure to  
replace the cover plate could result in death or serious injury.  
If the earth ground has a voltage of more than 4 Vac, use a different  
ground. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.  
To check the quality of the earth ground:  
1. Open the enclosure door.  
2. Inside of the enclosure at the top-right corner, remove the high-volt-  
age area cover plate.  
3. Measure the ac voltage between the earth ground and the neutral ter-  
minal, as shown in Figure 20 on page 47.  
Ideally, the voltage should be 0 Vac. Find a different ground if the  
voltage exceeds 4 Vac. A higher voltage may result in:  
Danger to people touching the enclosure  
Erratic communications  
Erratic equipment operation (Because noise may affect voltage  
levels at the inputs—the controller interprets input noise as  
changes in temperature, humidity, pressure, and so on.)  
4. Replace the cover plate.  
46  
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EMI/RFI considerations  
Figure 20. Checking the earth ground  
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Chapter 4 Installing the Tracer Summit BMTX BCU  
Connecting the main circuit board  
The main circuit board is attached to a plastic frame. It is shipped  
separately. The board can be kept in the office and programmed while the  
back of the enclosure is mounted and the termination board, which is  
attached to the back of the enclosure, is wired. After programming has  
been completed, connect the circuit board to the termination board as  
shown in the following procedure.  
To connect the circuit board:  
1. Verify that the 24 Vac power cable is not connected to the termination  
board.  
2. Hold the circuit board frame at a 90° angle to the back of the  
enclosure, as shown in Figure 21.  
3. Connect the circuit board’s 60-pin ribbon cable to the termination  
board’s 60-pin slot. The connector is keyed to the slot. To avoid  
difficulty, make sure that the key is lined up with the slot.  
Figure 21. Connecting the circuit board ribbon cable  
1. Align the snaps on the circuit board frame with the mounting locks at  
opposite ends of the enclosure back, as shown in Figure 22 on page 49.  
2. Using the tabs that are at both ends of the top frame, push the two  
frames together. You will hear a click when the frames connect.  
48  
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Connecting the main circuit board  
Figure 22. Connecting the frames  
3. Connect the 24 Vac power cable to the termination board. The seven-  
segment LED display should light up.  
4. Connect the Ethernet cable to the Ethernet connector on the circuit  
board (this step applies to UUKL nondedicated systems only).  
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Chapter 4 Installing the Tracer Summit BMTX BCU  
Installing the door  
To install the enclosure door:  
1. Unpack the door and check for missing or damaged parts.  
Check to make sure that the magnetic latches are installed. Check for  
any cracks in the plastic.  
2. Hold the door at a 90° angle from the enclosure back as shown in Fig-  
ure 23.  
3. Align the hinge pegs on the door with the hinge holes on the enclo-  
sure.  
4. Gently lower the door until it rests securely in the hinge holes.  
5. Verify that the door swings freely on the hinges and that the magnetic  
latches hold the door securely when it is closed.  
Figure 23. Installing the door  
50  
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Transtector, Ethernet (UUKL nondedicated only), and LonTalk connections on the BMTX BCU  
Transtector, Ethernet (UUKL  
nondedicated only), and LonTalk  
connections on the BMTX BCU  
To comply with UUKL, a protection device must be wired to the BMTX  
BCU to reduce transients in the ac power. Figure 24 describes connecting  
an ac power transient protection device to a BMTX BCU.  
Figure 24. AC power transient protection wiring to the BMTX BCU  
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Chapter 4 Installing the Tracer Summit BMTX BCU  
Figure 25 shows the Ethernet LAN connection (UUKL nondedicated only)  
and the LonTalk connection to the BMTX BCU.  
Figure 25. Ethernet (UUKL nondedicated only) and LonTalk connection  
locations on the BMTX BCU  
LonTalk connections  
{
Ethernet connection  
Note:  
A fully configured BCU draws a maximum of 25 VA from the  
power transformer. No other devices may be powered from the  
transformer.  
52  
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Chapter 5  
Installing the Tracer MP581  
programmable controller  
Installation guidelines  
Guidelines for installing a Tracer MP581 include:  
A Tracer MP581 that monitors the fire alarm control panel for  
consistency (FACP) must be installed in the same room as the FACP.  
It must be installed within 20 feet of the FACP. Cables between the  
FACP and the Tracer MP581 must be in conduit.  
A Tracer MP581 that monitors and controls the fire smoke control  
system (FSCS) must be installed in the same room as the FSCS. It  
must be installed within 20 feet of the FSCS. Cables between the  
FACP and Tracer MP581 must be in conduit.  
IMPORTANT  
Wiring between the Tracer MP581 and the FACP and between the Tracer  
MP581 and the FSCS (point wiring) must be in conduit. The conduit  
requirement is necessary, since the binary inputs to the Tracer MP581  
are not supervised.  
Wiring from a Tracer MP581 to field sensors and relays is not  
supervised. Installation of this wiring must conform to more stringent  
requirements when a Tracer MP581 is part of a smoke control system  
than when it is part of a standard mechanical system control.  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Specifications  
The Tracer MP581 conforms to the specifications shown in Table 13.  
Table 13. Tracer MP581 specifications  
Weight  
15 lb (7 kg)  
Operating temperature  
Storage temperature  
Humidity  
From –40°F to 120°F (–40°C to 49°C)  
From –58°F to 203°F (–50°C to 95°C)  
10–90% non-condensing  
6500 ft (2000 m)  
Altitude  
Installation  
Category 3  
Pollution  
Degree 2  
High-voltage power require-  
ments  
North America: 120 Vac, 1 A maximum, 1  
phase  
Weight  
Mounting surface must be able to support  
25 lb (12 kg)  
Analog to digital conversion  
Digital to analog conversion  
12 bit  
12 bit  
Microprocessor  
Motorola MC68332  
20 MHz  
Processor clock speed:  
Memory  
RAM: 256 kB (16-bit word)  
EEPROM: 256 kB (8-bit word)  
Flash: 1 MB (16-bit word)  
Clock  
Crystal controlled 32.768 kHz  
None required  
Battery  
54  
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Selecting a mounting location  
Selecting a mounting location  
Make sure that the location meets the operating environment require-  
ments and clearance requirements described in the following sections.  
The Tracer MP581 controller must be installed indoors. Trane recom-  
mends locating the Tracer MP581 controller in the same room (within 20  
ft) of the controlled equipment to reduce wiring costs.  
CAUTION  
Equipment damage!  
Install the Tracer MP581 in a location that is out of direct sunlight. Fail-  
ure to do so may cause the Tracer MP581 to overheat.  
Operating environment requirements  
Make sure that the operating environment conforms to the specifications  
listed in Table 14.  
Table 14. Operating environment specifications  
Temperature  
Humidity  
Altitude  
From –40°F to 120°F (–40°C to 49°C)  
10–90% non-condensing  
6500 ft (2000 m)  
High-voltage power  
requirements  
North America: 98–132 Vac, 1 A maximum, 1 phase  
Weight  
Mounting surface must be able to support 25 lb (12 kg)  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Clearances and dimensions  
Make sure that the mounting location has enough room to meet the mini-  
mum clearances shown in Figure 26. Figure 27 on page 57 shows the  
dimensions of the Tracer MP581 enclosure.  
Figure 26. Minimum clearances for enclosure  
12 in. (30 cm)  
24 in. (60 cm)  
12 in. (30 cm)  
to fully open door  
12 in. (30 cm)  
50 in. (130 cm) recommended  
36 in. (90 cm)  
56  
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Selecting a mounting location  
Figure 27. Tracer MP581 enclosure dimensions  
Top view  
Front view  
Left view  
Right view  
Bottom view  
Note:  
Six of the twelve knockouts are dual-sized knockouts for 1-inch  
(25 mm) and 0.75-inch (19 mm) conduit.  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Mounting the back of the enclosure  
The back of the enclosure is shipped with the termination board installed  
inside it.  
IMPORTANT  
The termination board should be shipped with the grounding screw  
installed. Verify this by checking the location shown in Figure 28.  
The enclosure door is shipped separately. If the door has already been  
attached to the enclosure back, remove it.  
To mount the enclosure:  
1. Using the enclosure as a template, mark the location of the four  
mounting holes on the mounting surface (see Figure 28).  
Figure 28. Enclosure mounting holes  
Termination board  
grounding screw  
(must be installed)  
Mounting hole  
(four locations)  
58  
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Wiring high-voltage ac power  
2. Set the enclosure aside and drill holes for the screws at the marked  
locations.  
Drill holes for #10 (5 mm) screws or #10 wall anchors. Use wall  
anchors if the mounting surface is dry wall or masonry.  
3. Insert wall anchors if needed.  
4. Secure the enclosure to the mounting surface with the supplied  
#10 (5 mm) screws.  
Wiring high-voltage ac power  
Table 15 lists the available Tracer MP581 model. You can find the model  
number on the shipping label or on the product label inside the enclosure.  
Table 15. Tracer MP581 models  
Model Number  
Description  
BMTM000DAB00  
Tracer MP581 controller, 120 Vac, UUKL  
Circuit requirements  
To ensure proper operation of the Tracer MP581, install the power supply  
circuit in accordance with the following guidelines:  
The Tracer MP581 must receive high-voltage power from a dedicated  
power circuit. Failure to comply may cause control malfunctions.  
A disconnect switch for the dedicated power circuit must be near the  
controller, within easy reach of the operator, and marked as the dis-  
connecting device for the controller.  
High-voltage power-wire conduits or wire bundles must not contain  
input/output wires. Failure to comply may cause the controller to mal-  
function due to electrical noise.  
High-voltage power wiring must comply with the National Electrical  
Code (NEC) and applicable local electrical codes.  
High-voltage power wiring requires three-wire 120/230 Vac service.  
Use copper conductors only.  
Note:  
The voltage utilization range for the Tracer MP581 transformer  
is 120 Vac. The panel detects whether the current is 50 or 60  
cycle.  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Wiring high-voltage power  
ƽWARNING  
Hazardous voltage!  
Before making electrical connections, lock open the supply-power dis-  
connect switch. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.  
CAUTION  
Use copper conductors only!  
Unit terminals are designed to accept copper conductors only. Other  
conductors may cause equipment damage.  
To connect high-voltage power wires:  
1. Lock open the supply-power disconnect switch.  
2. At the top right corner of the enclosure, remove the knockout and  
install 0.5-inch (13 mm) conduit (see Figure 29).  
Figure 29. Knockout for high-voltage power wires  
Power wire entry through  
knockout for 0.5-inch conduit  
3. Open or remove the Tracer MP581 door if it is already installed.  
4. Inside of the enclosure at the top-right corner, remove the high-volt-  
age area cover plate.  
5. Feed the high-voltage power wires into the enclosure.  
6. Connect the line wire to the L terminal as shown in Figure 30 on page  
61.  
7. Connect the neutral wire to the N terminal.  
8. Connect the green ground wire to the chassis ground screw. The  
ground wire must be continuous back to the circuit-breaker panel.  
9. Replace the cover plate.  
60  
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Wiring high-voltage ac power  
Figure 30. Terminal block for high-voltage power wires  
ƽWARNING  
Hazardous voltage!  
The cover plate must be in place when the controller is operating. Fail-  
ure to replace the cover plate could result in death or serious injury.  
10. On a label, record the location of the circuit-breaker panel and the  
electrical circuit. Attach the label to the cover plate.  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
EMI/RFI considerations  
Take care to isolate HVAC controllers from electromagnetic interference  
(EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI). Such interference can be  
caused by radio and TV towers, hospital diagnostic equipment, radar  
equipment, electric power transmission equipment, and so on. In addi-  
tion, take care to prevent the Tracer MP581 controller from radiating  
EMI and/or RFI.  
The Tracer MP581 is equipped with EMI/RFI filters that trap RFI to  
ground. In most situations, a good earth ground will reduce EMI/RFI  
problems by acting as a drain for EMI and RFI. If the Tracer MP581 is  
receiving or radiating interference, make sure that the earth ground is  
good. Do not assume that the building conduit is an adequate ground.  
Checking the earth ground  
Though a proper earth ground is especially important in areas of high  
EMI or RFI, always check the quality of the ground, regardless of  
location.  
ƽWARNING  
Hazardous voltage!  
The cover plate must be in place when the controller is operating. Fail-  
ure to replace the cover plate could result in death or serious injury.  
If the earth ground has a voltage of more than 4 Vac, use a different  
ground. Failure to do so could result in death or serious injury.  
To check the quality of the earth ground:  
1. Open the enclosure door.  
2. Inside of the enclosure at the top-right corner, remove the high-volt-  
age area cover plate.  
3. Measure the ac voltage between the earth ground and the neutral ter-  
minal, as shown in Figure 31 on page 63.  
Ideally, the voltage should be 0 Vac. Find a different ground if the  
voltage exceeds 4 Vac. A higher voltage may result in:  
Danger to people touching the enclosure  
Erratic communications  
Erratic equipment operation (Because noise may affect voltage  
levels at the inputs—the controller interprets input noise as  
changes in temperature, humidity, pressure, and so on.)  
4. Replace the cover plate.  
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EMI/RFI considerations  
Figure 31. Checking the earth ground  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Wiring inputs and outputs  
The Tracer MP581 enclosure is designed to simplify the wiring and con-  
figuration of inputs and outputs by providing a large space for routing  
wires and by eliminating the need to manipulate jumpers. Table 16 lists  
Tracer MP581 inputs and outputs.  
Table 16. Inputs and outputs  
Type  
Number  
Description  
Universal inputs  
12  
Dry-contact binary, thermistor,  
0–20 mA, 0–10 Vdc, linear resistance.  
The first four inputs can be used  
directly with resistance temperature  
detectors (RTDs).  
Static pressure  
input  
1
Differential pressure sensor, 5 Vdc,  
0–5 in. wc  
Binary outputs  
Analog outputs  
6
6
Powered relay contacts, 6 VA at 24 Vac  
0–10 Vdc or 0–20 mA  
Input/output wiring guidelines  
Input/output wiring must meet the following guidelines:  
Wiring must conform with the National Electrical Code and local elec-  
trical codes.  
Use only 18 AWG twisted-pair wire with stranded, tinned-copper con-  
ductors.  
Binary input/output wires must not exceed 1,000 ft (300 m).  
Analog input wires must not exceed 300 ft (100 m) for thermistors  
and 0–10 Vdc inputs and 1,000 ft (300 m) for 0–20 mA inputs.  
Analog output wires must not exceed 1,000 ft (300 m) for 0–10 Vdc  
outputs and 0–20 mA outputs.  
Do not run input/output wires in the same wire bundle with high-  
voltage power wires. Running input/output wires with 24 Vac power  
wires is acceptable, but the input wire must be shielded.  
Terminate input/output wires before installing the main circuit board  
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Wiring inputs and outputs  
Wire routing  
Figure 32 shows how to route input/output wires through the enclosure.  
It also shows the locations of wire-tie brackets. See Figure 27 on page 57  
for knockout locations and dimensions. Metal conduit may be required by  
local codes when running input/output wires.  
Figure 32. Wire routing  
Brackets for wire  
ties (9 locations)  
Recommended  
communication wire route  
Providing low-voltage power for inputs and outputs  
The Tracer MP581 controller can provide low-voltage power to inputs and  
outputs. Figure 33 on page 66 shows the location of the low-voltage screw  
terminals on the termination board. The following limitations apply:  
Four 24 Vdc screw terminals supply a total of up to 250 mA of power.  
Two 24 Vac screw terminals supply a total of up to 17 VA of power.  
The 50 VA of available power supplies both the 24 Vac screw  
terminals and binary outputs.  
Note that more than one input or output can receive power from a given  
screw terminal. The only limitation is the total amount of power supplied.  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Screw terminal locations  
Figure 33 shows screw terminal locations on the termination board. The  
top row of screw terminals is for signal wires, and the bottom row of screw  
terminals is for common wires. To make sure that the wires lie flat, use  
the wire strip guide on the termination board to strip input/output wires  
to the correct length.  
Figure 33. Screw-terminal locations  
Common terminals  
Signal terminals  
24 Vac power  
connector  
Binary outputs  
24 Vac power  
Analog outputs  
Wire strip guide  
Universal inputs  
(IN1–IN4 can  
accept RTDs)  
inputs  
24 Vdc power  
LonTalk screw terminals  
LonTalk jack for Rover service tool  
I/O bus for EX2 expansion modules  
Duct-static pressure connector  
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Wiring inputs and outputs  
Wiring universal inputs  
The Tracer MP581 controller has 12 universal inputs. Use the Rover ser-  
vice tool to configure inputs for analog or binary operation.  
The common terminals on the Tracer MP581 termination board are con-  
nected to the metal enclosure by means of a ground screw. Shield wires  
should be connected to a common terminal. Table 17 shows the load the  
Tracer MP581 places on sensors.  
Table 17. Load placed on sensors  
Input type  
Load on sensor  
Vdc (linear)  
mA (linear)  
21 kΩ  
221 Ω  
Wiring binary inputs  
Use binary inputs to monitor statuses, such as fan on/off and alarm  
resets.  
To wire a binary input:  
1. Connect the common wire to a common terminal as shown in  
Note that, because the common terminals are in parallel, you can  
wire the common wire to any available common terminal.  
2. Connect the shield wire to a common terminal at the termination  
board and tape it back at the input device.  
3. Connect the signal wire to an available input terminal (IN1–IN12).  
4. Use the Rover service tool to configure the input for binary operation.  
Figure 34. Wiring a binary input  
< 1000 ft  
(300 m)  
Signal  
Common  
Binary switch  
Tape back shield  
Shield  
NOTE: To reduce the potential for transients, locate input  
devices in the same room with the Tracer MP581.  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Wiring analog outputs  
The Tracer MP581 controller has six analog outputs. These outputs can  
be either 0–10 Vdc outputs or 0–20 mA outputs. Analog outputs control  
actuators and secondary controllers.  
To wire an analog output:  
1. For three-wire applications, use a 3-conductor cable with a shield. For  
two-wire applications, use a 2-conductor cable with a shield. Connect  
the shield to a common terminal at the termination board and tape it  
back at the output device (see Figure 35). Do not use the shield wire  
as the common connection.  
2. Connect the signal wire to an available analog output terminal  
(AO1–AO6).  
3. Connect the supply wire to a 24 Vac terminal as required.  
4. Use the Rover service tool to configure the analog output.  
Figure 35. Wiring analog outputs  
Ac powered actuator  
24 Vac  
< 1000 ft  
(300 m)  
Signal  
Common  
Signal  
Common  
0–10 Vdc output  
Load > 500 Ω  
< 1000 ft  
(300 m)  
< 300 ft  
(100 m)  
Signal  
Tape back shield  
Common  
0–20 mA output  
Load < 500 Ω  
NOTE: To reduce the potential for transients, locate output  
devices in the same room with the Tracer MP581.  
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Wiring inputs and outputs  
Wiring binary outputs  
The Tracer MP581 controller has six binary outputs. These are powered  
outputs, not dry-contact outputs.  
IMPORTANT  
Use pilot relays for dry-contact outputs when the load is greater than  
6 VA or has a current draw of greater than 0.25 A. Use powered outputs  
when the load is less than 6 VA or has a current draw of less than  
0.25 A.  
Note:  
When controlling coil-based loads, such as pilot relays, do not  
forget to account for “inrush” current. Inrush current can be  
three (or more) times greater than the operating current. You  
can find information on inrush current for specific types of out-  
puts in their product specifications.  
To wire a binary output:  
1. Connect the common wire to a common terminal as shown in  
2. Connect the shield wire to a common terminal at the termination  
board and tape it back at the output device.  
3. Connect the signal wire to an available binary output terminal  
(BO1–BO6).  
4. Use the Rover service tool to configure the binary output.  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Figure 36. Wiring binary outputs  
Powered output  
< 1000 ft  
(300 m)  
Signal  
Common  
Pilot relay  
24 Vac coil  
Tape back shield  
Signal  
< 1000 ft  
(300 m)  
Common  
NOTE: To reduce the potential for transients, locate output  
devices in the same room with the Tracer MP581.  
Checking binary inputs  
To check binary inputs for proper operation:  
1. Make sure that the sensor is connected and closed.  
2. Set the multi-meter to measure Vac, then measure the voltage across  
the input connections at the signal and common screw terminals.  
The measured voltage should be less than 0.1 Vac. If the voltage is  
greater than this, the input readings may change erratically.  
3. Set the multi-meter to measure Vdc, then measure the voltage across  
the input at the signal and common screw terminals.  
The measured voltage should be less than 0.1 Vdc. If the voltage is  
greater than this, the input readings may be offset.  
CAUTION  
Equipment damage!  
Continue to step 4 only if you completed steps 2 and 3 successfully.  
Measuring resistance may damage the meter if the voltage is too high.  
4. Set the multi-meter to measure resistance. If you completed steps 2  
and 3 successfully, measure the resistance across the input.  
The resistance should be less than 200 Ω when the binary input is  
closed and greater than 1 kΩ when it is open.  
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Checking outputs  
Checking outputs  
Follow the procedures in this section to test outputs for proper operation.  
IMPORTANT  
Perform the tests in this section before providing power to the termina-  
tion board or installing the main circuit board. Failure to do so will  
result in incorrect multi-meter readings.  
To test outputs for proper operation, you need the following tools:  
Digital multi-meter  
Small flat-tip screwdriver  
Checking binary outputs  
To check binary outputs for proper operation:  
1. Set the multi-meter to measure Vac, then measure the voltage across  
the binary output at the common and signal screw terminals.  
The measured voltage should be less than 0.1 Vac. If the voltage is  
greater than this, the load may turn on and off unexpectedly. Check  
for the following problems:  
A shared power supply may be incorrectly connected. Check the  
wire to make sure that no additional connections have been made.  
The wire may have an induced voltage somewhere along its  
length.  
2. Set the multi-meter to measure Vdc, then measure the voltage across  
the binary output at the common and signal screw terminals.  
The measured voltage should be less than 0.1 Vdc. If the it is greater  
than this, a shared power supply may be incorrectly connected. Check  
the wire to make sure that no additional connections have been made.  
CAUTION  
Equipment damage!  
Continue to step 3 only if you completed steps 1 and 2 successfully.  
Measuring resistance may damage the meter if the voltage is too high.  
3. Set the multi-meter to measure resistance. If you completed steps 1  
and 2 successfully, measure the resistance across the binary output to  
confirm that there are no shorts and no open circuits.  
Resistance is load dependent. Pilot relays have a relatively low resis-  
tance of less than 1 kΩ, but some actuators have a high resistance.  
Check to see what kind of binary output is connected before checking  
for open and short circuits.  
Checking 0–10 Vdc analog outputs  
To check 0–10 Vdc analog outputs for proper operation:  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
1. Make sure that the actuator is connected but powered off.  
2. Set the multi-meter to measure Vac, then measure the voltage across  
the analog output at the signal and common screw terminals.  
The measured voltage should be less than 0.1 Vac. If the voltage is  
greater than this, the load may turn on and off unexpectedly. Check  
for the following problems:  
A shared power supply may be incorrectly connected. Check along  
the wire to make sure that no additional connections have been  
made.  
The wire may have an induced voltage somewhere along its  
length.  
3. Set the multi-meter to measure Vdc, then measure the voltage across  
the analog output at the signal and common screw terminals.  
The measured voltage should be less than 0.1 Vdc. If the voltage is  
greater than this, a shared power supply may be incorrectly con-  
nected. Check along the wire to make sure that no additional connec-  
tions have been made.  
CAUTION  
Equipment damage!  
Continue to step 4 only if you completed steps 2 and 3 successfully.  
Measuring resistance may damage the meter if the voltage is too high.  
4. Set the multi-meter to measure resistance. If you completed steps 2  
and 3 successfully, measure the resistance across the analog output at  
the signal and common screw terminals.  
The resistance should be greater than 500 Ω. (The analog output will  
not be able to reach 10 Vdc if the load resistance is less than 500 Ω.)  
Checking 0–20 mA analog outputs  
To check 0–20 mA analog outputs for proper operation:  
1. Make sure that the actuator is connected but powered off.  
2. Set the multi-meter to measure Vac, then measure the voltage across  
the analog output at the signal and common screw terminals.  
The measured voltage should be less than 0.1 Vac. If the voltage is  
greater than this, the load may turn on and off unexpectedly. Check  
for the following problems:  
A shared power supply may be incorrectly connected. Check along  
the wire to make sure that no additional connections have been  
made.  
The wire may have an induced voltage somewhere along its  
length.  
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Checking outputs  
3. Set the multi-meter to measure Vdc, then measure the voltage across  
the analog output at the signal and common screw terminals.  
The measured voltage should be less than 0.1 Vdc. If the voltage is  
greater than this, a shared power supply may be incorrectly con-  
nected. Check along the wire to make sure that no additional connec-  
tions have been made.  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Wiring LonTalk to the Tracer MP581  
IMPORTANT  
When installing the Tracer MP581 controller in areas of high electro-  
magnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), fol-  
low the additional installation instructions in “EMI/RFI considerations”  
Note:  
Although LonTalk links are not polarity sensitive, we recom-  
mend that you keep polarity consistent throughout the site.  
To wire the LonTalk link:  
1. At the first Tracer MP581 on the link, complete the following steps:  
Connect the white wire to the first (or third) LonTalk screw termi-  
nal as shown in Figure 37.  
Connect the black wire to the second (or fourth) LonTalk screw  
terminal.  
If this is the first LonTalk controller on the daisy chain, place a  
105 Ω termination resistor across the LonTalk screw terminals.  
Figure 37. Wiring the first device to the LonTalk connection on the  
termination board  
Note: Place a 105 Ω termination  
resistor at the first and last LonTalk  
device on the daisy chain. Termination  
resistors require insulation, such as  
heat shrink tubing, to avoid accidental  
shorts to other conductors.  
2. At the next Tracer MP581 (or other LonTalk controller) on the link:  
Connect the white wires to the first and third LonTalk screw ter-  
minals (as shown in Figure 38 on page 75).  
Connect the black wires to the second and fourth LonTalk screw  
terminals.  
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Wiring LonTalk to the Tracer MP581  
3. At the last controller on the LonTalk link:  
Connect the white wire to the first LonTalk screw terminal.  
Connect the black wire to the second LonTalk screw terminal.  
Place a 105 Ω termination resistor across the LonTalk screw  
terminals.  
Figure 38. Wiring the next device to the LonTalk connection on the  
termination board  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Installing the circuit board  
The main circuit board is not installed in the Tracer MP581 enclosure  
when it ships. You can store the circuit board in the office while the enclo-  
sure is mounted and wired. After wiring has been completed, connect the  
circuit board to the termination board.  
To install the circuit board:  
1. Open the enclosure door.  
2. Verify that the 24 Vac power cable is not connected to the termination  
board (see Figure 41 on page 78).  
3. Hold the top plastic frame, which holds the circuit board, at a 90°  
angle to the bottom frame as shown in Figure 39.  
Figure 39. Connecting the cables  
4. Connect the 60-pin cable to the 60-pin slot, then connect the 20-pin  
cable to the 20-pin slot.  
The connectors fit only one way. If you have difficulty connecting  
them, make sure that the plastic grooves line up with the slots.  
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Installing the circuit board  
5. Align the snaps on the top frame with the mounting locks on the bot-  
tom frame, as shown in Figure 40, then push the two frames together.  
You will hear a click when the frames connect.  
Figure 40. Connecting the frames  
6. Locate the 24 Vac power connector on the termination board (see  
Figure 41 on page 78). Remove the mating plug with screw terminals.  
7. Attach the 24 Vac power-supply cable to the screw terminals on the  
mating plug.  
8. Connect the mating plug to the 24 Vac power connector on the termi-  
nation board. The green status LED should light up.  
9. Check status LEDs according to the information given in “Interpret-  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Figure 41. 24 Vac power-supply cable connection  
24 Vac power connector  
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Verifying operation and communication of the Tracer MP581  
Verifying operation and communication  
of the Tracer MP581  
This chapter describes the location and function of the Service Pin button  
and the light-emitting diodes (LEDs) on the Tracer MP581 controller.  
Service Pin button  
The Service Pin button is located on the main circuit board as shown in  
Figure 42. Use the Service Pin button in conjunction with a service tool or  
BAS to:  
Identify a device  
Add a device to the active group  
Verify PCMCIA communications  
Make the green Status LED “wink” to verify that the controller is  
communicating on the link  
Refer to the Rover Operation and Programming guide,  
EMTX-SVX01D-EN, for information on how to use the Service Pin button.  
Interpreting LEDs  
The information in this section will help you interpret LED activity. The  
location of each LED is shown in Figure 42.  
Figure 42. Service Pin button and LED locations  
BO1–BO6 LEDs (green)  
Service LED (red)  
Service Pin button  
Comm LED (yellow)  
Status LED (green)  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Binary output LEDs  
The BO1–BO6 LEDs indicate the status of the six binary outputs.  
Table 18 describes binary output LED activity.  
Note:  
Each binary output LED reflects the status of the output relay on the  
circuit board. It may or may not reflect the status of the equipment  
the binary output is controlling. Field wiring determines whether the  
state of the binary output LED also applies to the status of the end  
device. Table 18 describes the LED states.  
Table 18. Binary output LEDs  
LED activity  
Explanation  
LED is on continuously  
LED is off continuously  
The relay output is energized.  
The relay output is de-energized or there is no  
power to the board.  
Service LED  
The red Service LED indicates whether the controller is operating nor-  
mally. Table 19 describes Service LED activity.  
Table 19. Red Service LED  
LED activity  
Explanation  
LED is off continuously  
when power is applied to  
the controller  
The controller is operating normally.  
LED is on continuously  
when power is applied to  
the controller  
The controller is not working properly, or  
someone is pressing the Service Pin button.  
LED flashes once every  
second  
The controller is not executing the application  
software because the network connections  
and addressing have been removed.1  
1
Restore the controller to normal operation using the Rover service tool. Refer to  
EMTX-SVX01D-EN for more information.  
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Verifying operation and communication of the Tracer MP581  
Status LED  
The green Status LED indicates whether the controller has power applied  
to it. Table 20 describes Status LED activity.  
Table 20. Green Status LED  
LED activity  
Explanation  
LED is on continuously  
Power is on (normal operation).  
LED blinks (¼ second on,  
¼ second off for 10 seconds)  
The auto-wink option is activated, and the  
controller is communicating.1  
LED blinks rapidly  
Flash download is being received.  
LED is off continuously  
Either the power is off or the controller has  
malfunctioned.  
1
By sending a request from the Rover service tool, you can request the controllers  
green LED to blink (“wink”), a notification that the controller received the signal and  
is communicating.  
Comm LED  
The yellow Comm LED indicates the communication status of the Tracer  
MP581 controller. Table 21 describes Comm LED activity.  
Table 21. Yellow Comm LED  
LED activity  
Explanation  
LED is off continuously  
The controller is not detecting any communica-  
tion (normal for stand-alone applications).  
LED blinks  
The controller detects communication (normal  
for communicating applications, including data  
sharing).  
LED is on continuously  
The LED may flash so fast that it looks as if it is  
on continuously. If this LED activity occurs at any  
time other than discovery, it indicates an abnor-  
mal condition. For example, the site may have  
excessive radio frequency interference (RFI).  
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Chapter 5 Installing the Tracer MP581 programmable controller  
Installing the door  
To install the enclosure door:  
1. Unpack the door and check for missing or damaged parts.  
Check to make sure that the magnetic latches and touch screen (if  
ordered) are installed. Check for any cracks in the plastic.  
2. Hold the door at a 90° angle from the enclosure as shown in Figure 43  
Figure 43. Aligning the enclosure door  
3. Align the hinge pegs on the door with the hinge holes on the  
enclosure.  
4. Gently lower the door until it rests securely in the hinge holes.  
5. Verify that the door swings freely on the hinges and that the magnetic  
latches hold the door securely when it is closed.  
Removing the door  
Remove the door to simplify wiring or when upgrading the controller with  
a door-mounted operator display.  
To remove the enclosure door:  
1. Open the door to a 90° angle from the enclosure.  
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Installing the door  
2. For doors with an operator display, disconnect the operator-display  
cable from operator display.  
3. Lift the door to pull the hinges from the hinge holes.  
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Chapter 6  
Installing the EX2 expansion  
module  
The EX2 is a field-installed expansion module for the Tracer MP581 pro-  
grammable controller. Up to four EX2s with metal enclosure, model num-  
ber 4950 0523, can be connected to a Tracer MP581. Each EX2 adds the  
following inputs and outputs to a Tracer MP581:  
Six universal inputs  
Four binary outputs  
Four analog outputs  
The enclosure package includes:  
EX2 circuit board fastened to the back piece of a metal enclosure  
Removable metal cover  
Make sure that the operating environment conforms to the specifications  
listed in Table 22. Dimensions and clearances are illustrated in Figure 44  
Table 22. Operating environment specifications  
Temperature  
Humidity  
Power  
From –40°F to 120°F (–40°C to 49°C)  
5–93%, non-condensing  
24 Vac, 50/60 Hz, 10 VA main board and 6 VA max per  
binary output  
Mounting Weight  
(frame-mount)  
Mounting surface must be able to support 2 lb (1 kg)  
Mounting Weight  
(metal enclosure)  
Mounting surface must be able to support 8 lb (4 kg)  
Altitude  
6,500 ft (2,000 m)  
Category 3  
Installation  
Pollution  
Degree 2  
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Chapter 6 Installing the EX2 expansion module  
Figure 44. Dimensions and clearances for metal-enclosure EX2  
1 in.  
(25 mm)  
1.875 in.  
(48 mm)  
6.5 in.  
(165 mm)  
0.28 in.  
(7 mm)  
9 in.  
(229 mm)  
9 in.  
(229 mm)  
7 in.  
(178 mm)  
2 in.  
(51 mm)  
2 in.  
(51 mm)  
10.37 in.  
(263 mm)  
width with  
cover  
24 in.  
(610 mm)  
1 in.  
(25 mm)  
10.25 in.  
(260 mm)  
width without cover  
2.25 in.  
(58 mm)  
1 in.  
(25 mm)  
Clearances  
Dimensions  
Storage environment  
The storage environment must meet the following requirements:  
Temperature: From –40°F to 185°F (–40°C to 85°C)  
Relative humidity: 5–93%, non-condensing  
Mounting location  
Trane recommends locating the EX2 module:  
In an environment protected from the elements  
Where public access is restricted to minimize the possibility of tam-  
pering or vandalism  
Near the controlled equipment to reduce wiring costs  
Where it is easily accessible for service personnel  
In conduit, in the same room, and no more than 20 ft (6.1 m) from the  
FACP  
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Terminal strips  
Terminal strips  
The EX2 module is shipped with terminal strips already in place  
(Figure 45). If you need to replace the circuit board, you can transfer the  
terminal strips to the new board without rewiring.  
Figure 45. Terminal strip locations  
Binary outputs  
terminal strip  
Universal inputs  
terminal strip  
Analog outputs  
terminal strip  
Mounting the metal-enclosure module  
To mount the enclosure:  
1. Unscrew the two screws on the front of the enclosure and remove the  
cover.  
2. Using the enclosure as a template, mark the location of the four  
mounting holes on the mounting surface (Figure 46 on page 88).  
3. Set the enclosure aside and drill holes for the screws at the marked  
locations.  
4. Drill holes for #10 (5 mm) screws or #10 wall anchors. Use wall  
anchors if the mounting surface is dry wall or masonry.  
5. Insert wall anchors if needed.  
6. Secure the enclosure to the mounting surface with #10 (5 mm) screws  
(not included).  
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Chapter 6 Installing the EX2 expansion module  
Figure 46. Mounting the metal-enclosure EX2  
AC-power wiring  
Use 16 AWG copper wire for ac-power wiring. All wiring must comply  
with National Electrical Code and local codes. Use a UL-listed Class 2  
power transformer supplying a nominal 24 Vac. The transformer must be  
sized to provide adequate power to the EX2 module (10 VA) and outputs  
(a maximum of 6 VA per binary output).  
Please read the warnings and cautions before proceeding.  
ƽWARNING  
Hazardous voltage!  
Before making line voltage electrical connections, lock open the supply-  
power disconnect switch. Failure to do so could result in death or seri-  
ous injury.  
ƽWARNING  
Hazardous voltage!  
Make sure that the 24 Vac transformer is properly grounded. Failure to  
do so could result in death or serious injury.  
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AC-power wiring  
CAUTION  
Equipment damage!  
Complete input/output wiring before applying power to the EX2 mod-  
ule. Failure to do so may cause damage to the module or power trans-  
former due to inadvertent connections to power circuits.  
CAUTION  
Equipment damage!  
To prevent module damage, do not share 24 Vac between modules.  
Wiring AC-power to the metal-enclosure module  
Please read the preceding warnings and cautions. To connect ac-power  
wiring to the enclosure:  
1. Remove the cover of the enclosure.  
2. Remove the knockout for the 0.5 in. (13 mm) conduit from the enclo-  
sure and attach the conduit.  
3. Feed the power wire into the enclosure.  
4. When mounting on dry wall or other non-conductive surface, connect  
an earth ground to the earth-ground screw on the enclosure  
5. Connect the ground wire from the 24 Vac transformer (not included)  
to the GND terminal (Figure 47 on page 90).  
6. Connect the power wire to the 24V terminal.  
7. Replace the cover of the enclosure.  
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Chapter 6 Installing the EX2 expansion module  
Figure 47. Power and ground terminals  
Note:  
If a power transformer must be shared between EX-2 modules  
(an example would be at the FSCS), the +VA rating on output is  
0.6 VA. This is enough to run any LED or sonalent provided on  
the FSCS. A maximum of 10 VA would be available to run other  
items. (All LEDs and sonic alerts are On during the LED test.)  
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I/O bus wiring  
I/O bus wiring  
The EX2 communicates with the Tracer MP581 and up to three other  
EX2 modules on an IEEE-485 link. This link must be a daisy chain. Typi-  
cally, the Tracer MP581 is at one end of the daisy chain, but any device  
can be at the ends of the link (Figure 48 and Figure 49 on page 92).  
Wiring for the I/O bus must meet the following requirements:  
All wiring must be in accordance with the National Electrical Code  
and local codes.  
Recommended wire is low-capacitance, 22-gauge, Level 4, unshielded,  
twisted-pair. Existing sites that have already been wired with low-  
capacitance, 18-gauge, shielded, twisted pair with stranded, tinned-  
copper conductors (Trane-approved, purple-jacketed wire) don't have  
to be rewired. This shielded wire will work if properly terminated.  
Total I/O wiring length cannot exceed 1000 ft (300 m).  
At the first three modules, splice the shield with the shield from the  
next section of communication-link wiring, and tape the shield to pre-  
vent any connection to ground. At the final module on the end of the  
daisy chain, terminate the shield as shown in Figure 48. Note that  
you can use one, two, three, or four EX2 modules with each  
Tracer MP581.  
Figure 48. I/O bus wiring example 1  
Tracer MP581  
EX2  
EX2  
EX2  
EX2  
Up to 1000 ft (300 m)  
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Chapter 6 Installing the EX2 expansion module  
Figure 49. I/O bus wiring example 2  
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Setting the I/O bus addresses  
Setting the I/O bus addresses  
Each EX2 on the link with the Tracer MP581 must have a unique  
address. Configure the address using the DIP switches on the EX2 circuit  
board (Figure 50). Table 23 shows the DIP switch settings for expansion  
modules 1 through 4.  
Figure 50. DIP switch on board  
Table 23. EX2 DIP switch settings  
EX2 module  
D1  
D2  
1
2
3
4
Off  
Off  
On  
On  
Off  
On  
Off  
On  
Input/output terminal wiring  
All input/output terminal wiring for the EX2 module must meet the fol-  
lowing requirements:  
All wiring must be in accordance with the National Electrical Code  
and local codes.  
Use only 18 AWG twisted-pair wire with stranded, tinned-copper  
conductors.  
Binary output wiring must not exceed 20 ft (6.1 m) and must be in  
conduit.  
Binary input wiring must not exceed 20 ft (6.1 m) and must be in  
conduit.  
Analog and 24 Vdc output wiring distances depend on the specifica-  
tions of the receiving unit. Use shielding for analog and 24 Vdc  
outputs.  
Do not run input/output wires in the same wire bundle with ac-power  
wires.  
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Chapter 6 Installing the EX2 expansion module  
The EX2 module has four binary outputs, four analog outputs, and six  
universal inputs.  
Universal inputs  
Each of the six universal inputs may be configured as binary.  
Binary outputs  
The four binary outputs are form A (SPST) relay outputs. These relays  
are not dry contacts; they switch 24 Vac. A pilot relay is required for any  
application using dry contacts. Relays connected to the binary outputs on  
the EX2 cannot exceed 6 VA or 0.25 A current draw at 24 Vac.  
Analog outputs (UUKL nondedicated only)  
Each of the four analog outputs may be configured as either of the  
following:  
0–10 Vdc  
0–20 mA  
Analog output and universal input  
setup  
Configure each analog output and universal input using a LonTalkser-  
vice tool, such as Trane’s Rover service tool. The service tool requires the  
Tracer MP581 software plug-in to configure an EX2. EX2 modules receive  
their configuration information from the Tracer MP581 controller they  
communicate with. You can do online configuration with the Rover ser-  
vice tool, or you can do offline configuration with Rover Configuration  
Builder. In either case, the EX2 modules will not receive their configura-  
tion until they are communicating with a configured Tracer MP581 con-  
troller.  
The inputs are factory configured to be not used. Analog outputs are con-  
figured for voltage. Figure 51 on page 95 shows how to wire some common  
sensor types and output devices.  
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Analog output and universal input setup  
Figure 51. Typical input/output terminal wiring diagram for the EX2  
expansion module  
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Chapter 6 Installing the EX2 expansion module  
Interpreting EX2 LEDs  
The information in this section will help you interpret LED activity on  
the EX2 expansion module. Figure 52 shows the location of each LED.  
Figure 52. LED locations on the EX2  
Binary output LEDs  
Status LED  
TX and RX  
communications LEDs  
Binary output LEDs  
The LEDs labeled LD2 through LD5 indicate the status of the four binary  
outputs. Table 24 describes binary output LED activity.  
Note:  
Each binary output LED reflects the status of the output relay on the  
circuit board. It may or may not reflect the status of the equipment  
the binary output is controlling. Field wiring determines whether the  
state of the binary output LED also applies to the status of the end  
device. Table 24 describes the LED states.  
Table 24. Binary output LEDs  
LED activity  
Explanation  
LED is on continuously  
LED is off continuously  
The relay output is energized.  
The relay output is de-energized or there is no  
power to the board.  
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Interpreting EX2 LEDs  
Status LED  
The Status LED on the EX2 module operates differently from the status  
LED on LonTalk devices. Table 25 describes EX2 Status LED activity.  
Table 25. Status LED  
LED activity  
Explanation  
LED is on continuously  
LED blinks twice  
Power is on and the unit is operating normally.  
The EX2 has not received its configuration from  
the Tracer MP580/581. Use the Rover service  
tool to make sure that the Tracer MP580/581 is  
correctly configured for use with the EX2 mod-  
ule. Check the I/O bus wiring.  
LED blinks once  
The EX2 is not communicating on the I/O bus.  
Check the communications LEDs described in  
Table 26 for more information.  
LED is off continuously  
Either the power is off or the controller has  
malfunctioned.  
Communications LEDs  
The LEDs labeled TX and RX indicate the communication status of the  
EX2 module. Table 26 describes the LED activity.  
Table 26. Communications LEDs  
LED activity  
Explanation  
Both LEDs blink regularly  
The EX2 is communicating with the Tracer  
MP580/581 on the I/O bus. (If the LEDs blink nor-  
mally but the EX2 is not working properly, make  
sure that I/O bus addresses are not duplicated.)  
Both LEDs are off  
continuously  
The EX2 is not communicating on the I/O bus.  
Either the I/O bus wiring is faulty or the Tracer  
MP580/581 has not been configured to use the  
EX2 module. Use the Rover service tool to con-  
figure the Tracer MP580/581 for use with the  
EX2 module.  
RX LED blinks,  
TX LED is off  
The EX2 is receiving communications from the  
Tracer MP581 (either for itself or another EX2)  
but cannot send communications. Either the  
module is not configured in the Tracer MP580/  
581 or its I/O bus address is incorrect. Use the  
Rover service tool to configure the Tracer  
MP580/581 for use with the EX2 module. Make  
sure the DIP switches are set for the correct I/O  
page 93).  
RX LED is on continuously,  
TX LED is off  
Polarity is reversed on the I/O bus wiring. Swap  
the wires at the plus (+) and minus (–) I/O bus  
screw terminals on the EX2 module.  
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Chapter 6 Installing the EX2 expansion module  
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Chapter 7  
Programming  
Programming occurs after hardware installation is complete. The smoke  
control system must be programmed for automatic response, weekly self-  
testing, end-process verification, and response to manual FSCS  
commands.  
Response times  
Time response requirements must be kept in mind when programming.  
They are give in Table 27.  
Table 27. Time response requirements  
Response time  
10 seconds  
Process  
(UL 864: 49.2.a)  
The maximum time allowed from when an acti-  
vation signal is received until a fire or smoke  
safety function is initiated. An activation signal  
could be from the FACP of the FSCS.  
15 seconds  
The maximum time allowed between a feed-  
back signal activation and an FSCS panel indi-  
cation (either audio or LED). A feedback signal  
will typically be a binary value, either hard-  
wired or communicated.  
60 seconds  
75 seconds  
200 seconds  
(UL 864: 49.2.c)  
Fan operation proof of desired state, either on  
or off.  
(UL 864: 49.2.c)  
Damper position proof of desired position,  
either open or closed.  
(UL 864: 49.2.b)  
The maximum time allowed between determi-  
nation of a failure state of critical equipment or  
process and notification of that failure. A failure  
state could include communication failures or  
equipment problems such as a fan not starting  
as commanded.  
The 10 second time limit mentioned in Table 27 controls how fast Tracer  
Graphical Programming (TGP) programs can be run. Suggested program  
rates are 2 seconds for communication watchdogs and 4–5 seconds for  
control programs.  
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Chapter 7 Programming  
In general, the BCU cannot pass information faster than every 5 seconds.  
This is the fastest a CPL routine can run. A BCU is included to collect  
system events, such as communication failure, and allow a user a remote  
connection to the system for status.  
Operational priority  
(UL 864: 49.10)  
The following descending order of priority shall be followed in processing  
smoke-control commands:  
1. Manual activation and deactivation commands issued at the FSCS.  
2. Manual activation and deactivation commands at other than the  
FSCS.  
3. Initial automatically actuated smoke-control sequence. The system  
does not need to override any manual activation or de-activation  
functions in place prior to the automatic control sequence.  
4. All other manual or automatic operation used for normal building  
operation.  
For programming purposes, the priority list in descending order is:  
1. Any manual control of dampers, fans, and smoke control panel  
control.  
2. Automatic smoke control system reaction.  
3. System test processes such as normal HVAC control, lamp tests, or  
system self-tests.  
All of the above priorities refer to performance, not annunciation. For  
instance, if a lamp test is running and a user overrides one of the  
dampers, the annunciation (LED) may not change while the actuator  
moves. In this case, the lamp test is not affecting system performance,  
just annunciation. However, if a system self-test is running, either a  
smoke alarm trigger or manual override will end the self-test. More  
detail is shown in Table 28 on page 101.  
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Subsequent alarms  
Table 28. Operational priority  
Current state of system  
System self-test  
Manual  
override  
Automatic  
smoke alarm  
HVAC  
(nondedicated)  
Panel lamp test  
N/A  
Actuator is  
overridden.  
System self-test  
ends.  
Panel lamp test  
can continue.  
Actuator is  
overridden.  
Manual override  
Affects all non-  
overridden  
actuators.  
N/A  
System self-test  
ends.  
Panel lamp test  
ends.  
HVAC system  
operation is  
completely  
suspended.  
Only smoke  
purge operation  
is allowed.  
Automatic  
smoke alarm  
Systemself-test System self-test  
N/A  
Allowed. No  
change.  
System self-test  
not used.  
System self-test  
Panel lamp test  
is not allowed  
to start.  
is not allowed  
to start.  
Panel lamp test  
is allowed to  
start.  
Panel lamp test  
is not allowed  
to start.  
Panel lamp test  
is allowed to  
start.  
N/A  
Panel lamp test  
is allowed to  
start.  
HVAC system  
running, but  
overridden  
actuator will be  
affected.  
HVAC opera-  
tion is not  
allowed to start.  
System self-test  
not used.  
HVAC opera-  
tion continues.  
N/A  
HVAC  
(nondedicated)  
Subsequent alarms  
(UL 864: 49.8)  
When multiple input signals are received from more than one smoke zone  
to initiate different automatic smoke-control sequence(s), the smoke-  
control system shall continue automatic operation in the mode  
determined by the first signal received.  
Once a floor-based smoke alarm is activated, the system will react as if  
that is the only alarm and will ignore all subsequent alarms, The supply,  
return and stair shaft smoke alarms are still allowed to affect the supply,  
return and stair shaft supply fans. Any reaction can be overridden at the  
smoke control panel.  
To ignore all subsequent floor alarms, the program fragment in Figure 53  
on page 102 has been tested and works correctly. Once an alarm is  
triggered by any floor-based smoke alarm, it will be the only smoke alarm  
reaction allowed. When the first alarm is received, it triggers two events;  
it writes the floor of the smoke alarm to analog variable 1 and sets a  
binary variable to hold the output at that value. That binary variable is  
held until all alarms are cleared by the fire smoke control system.  
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Chapter 7 Programming  
The wireless connector, smokeAlarmFloor, is used for the following two  
reasons:  
Because smokeAlarmFloor clears the floor alarms value one program  
execution sooner than when using just the binary variable, smoke  
AlarmAllFloor  
To send a smoke alarm to any floor (see Figure 54 on page 103).  
The relevant floor smoke alarm is communicated to the smoke control  
panel and mechanical system via a custom binding.  
Figure 53. Subsequent alarms—First reaction  
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Smoke alarm annunciation  
Smoke alarm annunciation  
Systems serving two or more zones shall visually identify the zone of  
origin of the status change (UL-864: 33.2.1). The visual annunciation  
shall be capable of displaying all zones having a status change (UL-864:  
33.2.2). These requirements are interpreted to mean that any smoke zone  
alarm is annunciated by the smoke control panel regardless of alarm  
order. If any smoke zone alarm is triggered, the alarm state is sent to  
MP580 controllers that interface with and control the smoke control  
panel. Figure 54 illustrates a means of programming to meet  
requirements 33.2.1 and 33.2.2. An additional value, smokeAlarmAny, is  
broadcast as a means to provide information for priority-based decisions  
Figure 54. Smoke alarm annunciation  
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Chapter 7 Programming  
From requirements 33.2.1 and 33.2.2, we can see that there is a  
decoupling between annunciation and reaction. The series of network  
variables shown in Figure 54, nvoSwitch05 through nvoSwitch12, are  
used to directly control the smoke alarm LEDs on the FSCP. For example,  
a smoke alarm for floor 1 is received. The mechanical system reacts by  
pressurizing floor 2 and exhausting floor 1. Following that, floor 2 goes  
into smoke alarm. The alarm needs to be annunciated even though the  
mechanical system does not react. In this case, nvoSwitch06 passes the  
smoke alarm state to MP580-3 by using a custom binding. At MP580-3,  
the binary output that controls the floor 2 smoke alarm LED is turned on.  
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Weekly self-test of dedicated systems  
Weekly self-test of dedicated systems  
(UL-864: 49.7)  
Dedicated smoke-control systems shall employ a weekly automatic self-  
test (AST). The AST automatically commands activation of each  
associated function. An audible and visual trouble signal shall be  
annunciated at the FSCP, identifying any function that fails to operate  
within the required time period. Nondedicated smoke control systems do  
not require a scheduled AST.  
Dedicated smoke control system equipment must be programmed to  
automatically test itself on a weekly basis. The tests ensure that the  
system will operate if needed. Nondedicated smoke control system  
mechanical equipment is assumed to be tested by the working HVAC  
system.  
Two approaches can be used to test the mechanical function of the  
system: either test each damper or fan as if it is being overridden from  
the smoke control panel, or test the reaction to each floor alarm. The first  
technique, which is the most comprehensive and requires the least  
programming, will be discussed. In either case, a failure must be  
annunciated at the smoke control panel both visually and audibly. It is  
acceptable to use the Trouble LED, the relevant failure LED, and the  
interior audio alert.  
An AST can be triggered either from a BMTX BCU or manually at the  
smoke control panel. Figure 55 shows a program fragment that triggers  
the AST. The scheduled trigger uses a Tracer Summit controlled binary  
variable. To manually trigger the AST, the user disables the smoke  
control panel and silences the audio alarms for 15 to 20 seconds. The AST  
signal is then sent to the mechanical system control to start the self-test  
process. Note that in the program fragment shown in Figure 55, that any  
smoke alarm will disable the AST.  
Figure 55. Triggering the automatic self-test (AST)  
At the receiving end of the AST signal is the mechanical system which is  
under test. The automatic self-test is 10 minutes long. The outputs of the  
program are system fault, damper direction (Open/Close) or fan state  
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Chapter 7 Programming  
(On/Off), self-test enable, and self-test reset. Damper direction and fan  
state are set to Open/On for 5 minutes then Close/Off for 5 minutes.  
There is also a “blink” function built into the program fragment.  
Whenever the AST is enabled and there are no mechanical faults, the  
trouble LED will blink.  
Resetting mechanical system faults is somewhat ambiguous. If the fault  
occurs in the smoke alarm mode, the alarm can be reset when the request  
stops. However, an AST-based fault must be annunciated and held until  
the fault is repaired. It is not clear what faults are allowed to clear the  
alarm, as there is no “reset fault” function available on the smoke control  
panel. Discussion with UL revealed that it is acceptable to annunciate the  
alarm until the next AST. Thus, the selfTestFailReset binary variable,  
shown in Figure 56, is used to reset all AST triggered faults.  
Figure 56. Mechanical reactions during AST  
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Weekly self-test of dedicated systems  
[Figure 57 needs to be introduced.]  
Figure 57. ast overridesense 3-13-2006  
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Chapter 7 Programming  
Figure 58 illustrates how adding self-testing to the system affects  
programming for damper control on each floor. The self-test request  
becomes another source of damper/fan control, along with automatic and  
manual override self-tests. The existence of the self-test signal is  
indicated by the binary variable, “selfTestEnable”. Once self-testing is  
enabled, dampers and fans become controlled by a direction variable. The  
variables, selfTestEnable and selfTestDirection, along with accompanying  
switch logic are not necessary in non-dedicated systems.  
Figure 58. Effect of AST on damper control  
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End process verification  
End process verification  
End process verification confirms that a device responded to an operation  
command. End process verification programming consists of:  
Programming the system to test binary input points for responses to  
commands sent to output points  
Setting a counter to provide a time delay that allows the system time  
to respond before setting a fail flag  
Setting a fail flag if the counter times out  
Programming the system to send a fail flag to Tracer MP581s  
controlling the FSCS, which results in the FSCS turning on a fail  
light  
Figure 59 shows an example of TGP used to determine a status of the  
outdoor air, return air, and exhaust air dampers. Each damper position  
status is compared to the relevant damper position request and a normal/  
fail state flag is derived. This segment will trigger an alarm event and  
send a fail flag to the Tracer MP581 that interfaces with the FSCS panel.  
A mechanical system reaction to the failure is not necessary.  
Based on Table 28 on page 101, the self-test needs to be overridden if  
either a smoke alarm is triggered or a manual override takes place.  
Figure 59. Sample TGP showing fail test technique  
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Figure 59 illustrates a basic actuator failure routine. Some changes are  
necessary when automatic self-testing is added to the program. The  
different ways of controlling an actuator have different means of resetting  
a failure. The failure reset is automatic if a failure is discovered during an  
automatic smoke alarm response or manual override from the smoke  
control panel. The failure indication is only maintained while there is a  
failure. On the other hand, the triggering of a system self-test, either  
scheduled or manual, will reset any failures discovered during a previous  
system self test. Figure 60 and Figure 61 on page 111 show the changes  
necessary to any dedicated system failure test routine. In either case, the  
connected BCU should be programmed to store the actuator failure in the  
alarm log.  
Binary variable 21 goes true for a minimum of 10 seconds whenever a  
system self-test is triggered (see Figure 56 on page 106). This will reset  
any stored failures from a previous system self-test.  
Figure 60. ast actuator fail checka 3-13-06  
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End process verification  
Figure 61. ast actuator fail checkb 3-13-06  
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Chapter 7 Programming  
Communication watchdog  
Since multiple Tracer MP581s are used to interface with the mechanical  
equipment and FACP and FSCS panels, checking communications  
between each MP581 and BCU is necessary. Three different  
communication systems are used: BCU to MP581 (auto-bind), MP581 to  
MP581 (custom bind), and MP581 to EX2. The BCU cannot determine  
communication status of custom bindings.  
One Tracer MP581 should be chosen to be the communication watchdog.  
Otherwise, the number of watchdog timers and Tracer MP581  
permutations may exceed binding limits.  
Figure 62 on page 113 illustrates the communication watchdog  
relationship. Figure 63 and Figure 64 on page 113 are TGP examples of  
the transmitting and receiving units, respectively. From the point of view  
of the receiving MP581, this technique tests whether the central unit can  
transmit by u sing a custom binding. As long as the programmer chooses  
to test from both ends, this process will fully test the communication  
status of the MP581-to-MP581 system. Other communication status such  
as that of the I/O bus (EX2 modules) and BMTX BCU can also be  
transferred to the central MP581.  
The basic watchdog method consists of sending an alternating signal from  
one MP581 to another MP581. A custom binding is necessary for the  
MP581-to-MP581 communication link. Although there are many ways to  
bind the two devices, for this example use MP581-2/nvoswitch36 to  
MP581-1/nviSwitch38. Whenever nviSwitch38 goes from false to true, a  
retriggerable latch block is triggered, holding its output state to true  
When a number of stat changes are missed—typically three—an alarm  
event will be triggered at the BCU. It may be necessary to adjust the  
delay time of the latch block to avoid false communication alarms.  
A response to communication status is necessary only if communication  
fails at any level. According to UL, a mechanical system reaction to  
communication loss is not necessary. Local requirements may require a  
mechanical reaction to communication loss.  
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Communication watchdog  
Figure 62. Watchdog communication relationship between a system  
MP581 and the central FSCP control MP581  
Figure 63. Sample TGP showing transmitting during watchdog  
communication process]  
Figure 64. Sample TGP showing watchdog signal receive process  
There are three communication signals used in the smoke control system:  
BCU to MP581, MP581 to MP581, and MP581 to EX-2. The status of all  
three communication types needs to be indicated at the smoke control  
panel. Each MP581 collects communication status information from the  
connected BCU and its associated EX-2 modules and transmits the status  
back to the smoke control panel MP581. A custom binding, MP580-1/  
nvoSwitch39 to MP580-2/nviSwitch37, is used to send the collected status  
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Chapter 7 Programming  
information. A program fragment illustrating the collection process is  
shown in Figure 65.  
Figure 65. Collection of Tracer and EX2 communication status at an  
individual MP581  
Figure 65 also shows that each MP581 in the smoke control system  
should send back its won watchdog signal to the main FSCP control  
MP581.  
At the main FSCP control MP581, all the communication status signals  
are collected together to determine overall communication status.  
Figure 66 on page 115 shows a TGP sample of the programming. Each  
MP581 in the smoke control system sends its own watchdog signal, its  
Tracer Summit communication status, and its EX-2 module  
communication status. In addition, the main FSCP control MP581 will  
have its own Tracer Summit communication status and EX-2 module  
communication to determine and add to the calculation. The Comm Fault  
LED should indicate if any communication link in the system is not  
working correctly.  
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Communication watchdog  
Figure 66. Determining overall communication status for the system  
Finally, the FSCP Comm Fault LED is controlled. A sample TGP  
fragment is shown in Figure 67. The FSCP Comm Fault LED is also  
controlled by the lamp test function. If a lamp test is not currently  
running, the FSCP Comm Fault is controlled by the overall  
communication status of the system.  
Figure 67. Control of the FSCP Comm Fault LED  
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Chapter 7 Programming  
Lamp test and audio alarm silence  
A lamp test must be performed for every FSCS panel. This test will cause  
all indicator lights to come on. However, an alarm takes precedence over  
the lamp test. Figure 68 shows a TGP program fragment that will enable  
a lamp test relevant to its own LEDs while broadcasting a lamp test  
request to other Tracer MP581s. An audible alarm test and silence  
routine are included.  
Figure 68. Sample TGP showing lamp test and audio alarm silence  
routine  
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Lamp test and audio alarm silence  
Triggering a lamp test affects all LEDs on the smoke control panel.  
Figure 69 shows an example of how to use the lamp test signal in  
combination with any smoke alarm information.  
Note:  
Note that the lamp test is not allowed to start or run if there is  
a smoke alarm.  
Figure 69. Example of lamp test controlling FSCP damper LEDs  
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Chapter 7 Programming  
Nondedicated smoke purge  
(UL-864: 3.21.h)  
The term nondedicated refers to a system that provides the building’s  
HVAC functioning under normal conditions and a smoke control objective  
during a fire alarm condition.  
The main concern when designing a nondedicated system is for  
programming to ensure that, once a smoke alarm or FSCP override  
occurs, any component of the smoke control system is controlled solely by  
automatic smoke control or manual override commands. For details  
regarding priority, see Table 28 on page 101.  
Figure 70 shows an example of programming for a nondedicated system  
to implement the priorities in Table 28. In this figure, the smoke control  
dampers for Floor 1 are controlled. The actuator position, either Open or  
Closed, will default to whatever the HVAC system commands. There are  
two states that will turn control over to either automatic smoke control or  
FSCP overrides:  
If the broadcast general smoke alarm is TRUE, or  
If the FSCP override switch is set to either Open or Closed.  
Figure 70. Implementing priorities for a nondedicated system:  
Controlling damper actuators  
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Variable-air-volume system  
Variable-air-volume system  
For variable-air-volume (VAV) systems, some form of duct pressure relief  
is required on each floor or in each smoke control zone. In smoke control  
mode, all return and supply fans will be set to their highest speed. If the  
VAV dampers are closed when this occurs, the duct pressure may be  
enough to damage the ductwork. To avoid this possibility, duct pressure  
relief dampers, either DDC or mechanically controlled, should be  
installed in the ductwork for each smoke control zone.  
It should be noted that careful sizing of smoke control supply air damper  
and relief damper is necessary to use smoke purge and protect dampers.  
Constant-volume system  
For constant-volume systems in smoke control mode return/exhaust  
dampers are open. Therefore, separate duct pressure relief is not  
required, but may be necessary on each floor or in each smoke control  
zone, as it is for VAV systems. Supply dampers should be sized such that  
any one damper can spill an adequate amount of air.  
UL-tested programs  
This application guide showed only excerpts of UL-tested TGP programs.  
Programs in their entirety can be found and downloaded from the GCS  
Product Support Web site. These programs may or may not meet local  
smoke alarm requirements. In all cases, defer to local smoke control  
specifications.  
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Chapter 8  
Network variable bindings  
Overview  
The LonTalk communications protocol allows data to be shared between  
devices (stand-alone or with a BAS) on a LonTalk network. This is called  
peer-to-peer communication. As an example of peer-to-peer communica-  
tion, two or more devices serving the same space share data, such as a  
temperature reading, without having to pass the data through a BAS.  
Network variables are used to share data between devices. The method  
used to direct data from one device to another is called network variable  
binding, or just binding. A network variable output from one device is  
bound to a network variable input on another device. An output variable  
from one device can be bound to input variables on many other devices.  
Binding network variables  
Each network variable is a standard type. This standard type is referred  
to as a standard network variable type (SNVT). To bind two variables  
together they must be the same SNVT. For example, an output of type  
SNVT_temp_p can only be bound to an input of type SNVT_temp_p. For  
more information about SNVTs, see the LonMark™ Web site (www.lon-  
mark.org). From that Web site you can download the official list of  
SNVTs.  
IMPORTANT  
Only LonTalk devices can use network variable binding. Devices on  
other communications links do not have this capability.  
BAS communications typically do not require the use of network variable  
binding because a Tracer Summit BCU will automatically bind to the  
proper data in a device. However, communications speed may be  
increased between two devices by binding their data rather than having  
the BAS read the information from one device and then broadcast it to  
another.  
Use the Rover service tool to create bindings. (See the Rover Operation  
and Programming guide, EMTX-SVX01E-EN.)  
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Chapter 8 Network variable bindings  
Tracer MP580/581 bindings  
This section discusses which network variables will be necessary to  
achieve UUKL time performance requirements. Only “generic” network  
variables, which are neither Space Comfort Controller (SCC) or Discharge  
Air Controller (DAC), are necessary. Use of generic variables does not  
affect either BCU auto-bound network variables or SCC or DAC based  
network variables.  
Receiving data  
A network variable input (nvi) receives data from other devices on the  
LonTalk network. The generic network variable inputs, nviSwitch and  
nviPercent, that are commonly used in Tracer MP580/581 bindings are  
shown in Table 29.  
Table 29. Tracer MP580/581 generic network variable inputs  
Variable name  
SNVT  
Data type  
Description  
nviSwitch01 …  
nviSwitch40  
SNVT_switch  
Binary  
Bind to these 40 network variable inputs to communi-  
cate binary values to the device.  
nviPercent01 …  
nviPercent20  
SNVT_lev_percent  
Analog  
Bind to these 20 network variable inputs to communi-  
cate levels in percent to the device. The valid range is  
from –163.84% to 163.83% with a resolution of 0.005%.  
Sending data  
A network variable output (nvo) sends data to other devices on the Lon-  
Talk network. The generic network variable outputs, nvoSwitch and nvo-  
Percent, that are commonly used in Tracer MP580/581 bindings are  
shown in Table 30.  
Table 30. Tracer MP580/581 generic network variable outputs  
Variable name  
SNVT  
Data type  
Description  
nvoSwitch01 …  
nvoSwitch40  
SNVT_switch  
Binary  
These 40 network variable outputs communicate binary  
values to other devices.  
nvoPercent01 …  
nvoPercent20  
SNVT_lev_percent  
Analog  
These 20 network variable outputs communicate levels  
in percent to other devices. The valid range is from –  
163.84% to 163.83% with a resolution of 0.005%.  
Heartbeated network variables  
All necessary information can be sent using nvoSwitch (SNVT_switch)  
and nvoPercent (SNVT_lev_percent), which are “heartbeated” variables.  
All necessary information can be received using nviSwitch  
(SNVT_switch) and nviPercent (SNVT_lev_percent). Heartbeated  
variables are a means of indicating freshness of information and/or  
quality of the communication link. For more information regarding  
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Custom bindings  
Custom bindings  
A distinction is made between FSCP and mechanical system control in  
this section. While smoke control panel processing is predictable,  
mechanical system processing (actuators, feedback validation) is  
unknown. It is limited to approximately five smoke control zones based  
on the UUKL-approved smoke control panel. Because the number and  
application of each MP581 and EX2 modules is unknown, the mechanical  
system will be represented as a “cloud.”  
The recommended smoke control system design is to have one MP580/581  
assigned as the “communication clearing house” or hub. It may be  
necessary to use two or more hubs, one for panel control and another  
hub(s) for the mechanical system. This design will simplify the binding  
creation process and makes the system more scalable. For more  
information regarding the limitations placed on custom binding and  
recommendations regarding custom binding design, see “Understanding  
The bindings and variables shown in Table 31–Table 37 were those used  
in the tested UUKL system to send information between MP580s. The  
system programmer can use whatever bindings and variables are  
necessary.  
UUKL binding list (watchdog communication)  
“Trouble signals and their restoration to normal shall be annunciated  
within 200 seconds of the occurrence of the adverse condition, fault, or the  
restoration to normal.” (UL-864: 49.2.b)  
As there is no built in means of verifying inter-MP581 communication  
status, a programmed solution must be used. While a network variable  
“heartbeat” can be used to verify status, it can take up to 300 seconds for  
a communication failure to be noticed. This solution would fail to meet  
the requirement given in previous paragraph. The tested solution is  
based on a “watchdog” style where a continuously changing network  
variable triggers a timer every time it changes state. As long as the timer  
never expires, it is assumed that the two devices are communicating. In  
this fashion, a communication failure can be annunciated within 60  
seconds.  
Table 31 on page 124 shows an example of a custom binding list. One  
group binding binds MP580-2, which is the hub, to all other MP581s (for  
an explanation of group bindings, see “Understanding bindings” on  
page 130). The “watchdog” signal sent to the group is used by each  
receiver to confirm communications from the hub unit. The hub unit is  
able to validate communications from each of other MP581s using their  
individual “watchdog” signals. These bindings are point-to-point based.  
There may be two hubs in the system, one used with the FSCP and other  
within the mechanical system. The need for a second hub will be driven  
by the size of the mechanical system involved. Figure 71 on page 125  
illustrates watchdog communication between MP581s in a hub-based  
system.  
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Chapter 8 Network variable bindings  
In Table 31, the term multi-vibrator is used to indicate a network  
variable whose state is changed regularly. The receiver expects this value  
to change state within a certain interval. If it does not, a communication  
fault is generated. The term comm. status is used to indicate a network  
variable whose state is dependent on that particular MP581’s EX2 and  
BMTX communication status. If either are down, a communication fault  
is generated.  
Table 31. Watchdog communication alarm custom bindings  
Network  
variable  
Function  
Originator  
MP580-2  
Destination  
Communication check from hub  
multi-vibrator  
nvoSwitch36  
nvoSwitch36  
nvoSwitch36  
nvoSwitch38  
Mechanical system/nviSwitch38  
MP580-3/nviSwitch38  
MP580-4/nviSwitch38  
Communication check to hub  
multi-vibrator  
Mechanical system  
MP580-2/nviSwitch34  
Communication check to hub:  
FSCP unit multi-vibrator  
MP580-3  
nvoSwitch38  
nvoSwitch38  
nvoSwitch39  
MP580-2/nviSwitch35  
MP580-2/nviSwitch36  
MP580-2/nviSwitch37  
MP580-4  
BMTX/EX2 communication  
check  
Mechanical system  
BMTX/EX2 communication  
check to FSCP unit comm. status  
MP580-3  
MP580-4  
nvoSwitch39  
nvoSwitch39  
MP580-2/nviSwitch38  
MP580-2/nviSwitch39  
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Custom bindings  
Figure 71. Watchdog communication in a hub-based system  
MP580-B  
MP580-A  
Mechanical  
system  
MP580-1  
System hubs  
Smoke control  
panel interface  
MP580-2  
MP580-4  
MP580-3  
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Chapter 8 Network variable bindings  
UUKL binding list (smoke alarm status)  
Table 32 shows an example list of smoke alarm custom bindings. In order  
to comply with UL-864 annunciation and control requirements, smoke  
alarm signals are sent to the mechanical system, FSCP lamps, and audio  
alarms (Sonalerts). Smoke alarms specific to a zone are broadcast to  
annunciate smoke alarms regardless of control sequence. A general  
smoke alarm is broadcast to signal a switch from HVAC control mode to a  
smoke control mode. Floor alarms are sent as an analog value to comply  
with the subsequent alarms requirement.  
Table 32. Smoke alarm custom bindings  
Function Originator  
Smoke alarm any MP580-2  
Network variable  
Destination  
nvoSwitch02  
nvoSwitch02  
nvoSwitch02  
nvoSwitch05  
nvoSwitch05  
nvoSwitch06  
nvoSwitch06  
nvoSwitch07  
nvoSwitch07  
nvoSwitch08  
nvoSwitch08  
nvoSwitch09  
nvoSwitch09  
nvoSwitch10  
nvoSwitch10  
nvoSwitch11  
nvoSwitch11  
nvoSwitch12  
nvoPercent20  
nvoPercent20  
nvoPercent20  
Mechanical system /nviSwitch37  
MP580-3/nviSwitch37  
MP580-4/nviSwitch37  
smokeAlarmFloor01  
smokeAlarmFloor02  
smokeAlarmFloor03  
smokeAlarmFloor04  
supplyDuctSmokeDetect  
returnDuctSmokeDetect  
stairDuctSmokeDetect  
MP580-2  
MP580-2  
MP580-2  
MP580-2  
MP580-2  
MP580-2  
MP580-2  
Mechanical system /nviSwitch20  
MP580-3/nviSwitch09  
Mechanical system/nviSwitch21  
MP580-3/nviSwitch12  
Mechanical system/nviSwitch22  
MP580-4/nviSwitch08  
Mechanical system/nviSwitch23  
MP580-4/nviSwitch11  
Mechanical system/nviSwitch30  
MP580-3/nviSwitch06  
Mechanical system/nviSwitch31  
MP580-4/nviSwitch05  
Mechanical system/nviSwitch32  
MP580-4/nviSwitch01  
stairShaftSmokeDetect  
smokeFloorAlarm  
MP580-2  
MP580-2  
Mechanical system/nviSwitch33  
Mechanical system/nviPercent20  
MP580-3/nviPercent20  
MP580-4/nviPercent20  
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Custom bindings  
UUKL binding list (FCSP override control)  
Table 33 shows an example list of FSCP override custom bindings.  
Override commands from the FSCP are sent directly to the mechanical  
system.  
Table 33. FSCP override custom bindings  
Function  
Originator  
Network variable  
Destination  
supplyFanManControl  
MP580-3  
nvoPercent01  
nvoPercent02  
nvoPercent03  
nvoPercent04  
nvoPercent05  
nvoPercent01  
nvoPercent02  
nvoPercent03  
nvoPercent04  
nvoPercent05  
nvoPercent01  
Mechanical system/nviPercent10  
Mechanical system/nviPercent02  
Mechanical system/nviPercent03  
Mechanical system/nviPercent04  
Mechanical system/nviPercent05  
Mechanical system/nviPercent11  
Mechanical system/nviPercent06  
Mechanical system/nviPercent07  
Mechanical system/nviPercent08  
Mechanical system/nviPercent09  
Mechanical system/nviPercent01  
supplyDamperManFloor01  
returnDamperManFloor01  
supplyDamperManFloor02  
returnDamperManFloor02  
returnFanManControl  
MP580-3  
MP580-3  
MP580-3  
MP580-3  
MP580-4  
MP580-4  
MP580-4  
MP580-4  
MP580-4  
MP580-2  
supplyDamperManFloor03  
returnDamperManFloor03  
supplyDamperManFloor04  
returnDamperManFloor04  
stairFanManControl  
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Chapter 8 Network variable bindings  
UUKL binding list (actuator Open/Close or  
On/Off status)  
Table 34 shows an example list of actuator status custom bindings.  
Actuator Open/Close or On/Off status is sent from the mechanical system  
directly to the FSCP.  
Table 34. Actuator status custom bindings  
Function  
Originator  
Network variable  
Destination  
supplyFanStatus  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
nvoSwitch01  
nvoSwitch02  
nvoPercent01  
nvoPercent04  
nvoPercent05  
nvoPercent06  
nvoPercent07  
nvoPercent08  
nvoPercent09  
nvoPercent10  
nvoPercent11  
nvoPercent12  
nvoPercent13  
nvoPercent14  
MP580-3/nviSwitch04  
MP580-4/nviSwitch03  
MP580-2/nviPercent02  
MP580-3/nviPercent01  
MP580-2/nviPercent01  
MP580-4/nviPercent01  
MP580-3/nviPercent02  
MP580-3/nviPercent03  
MP580-3/nviPercent04  
MP580-3/nviPercent05  
MP580-4/nviPercent02  
MP580-4/nviPercent03  
MP580-4/nviPercent04  
MP580-4/nviPercent05  
returnFanStatus  
stairFanStatus  
oaDamperStatus  
raDamperStatus  
eaDamperStatus  
supplyDamperFloor01  
returnDamperFloor01  
supplyDamperFloor02  
returnDamperFloor02  
supplyDamperFloor03  
returnDamperFloor03  
supplyDamperFloor04  
returnDamperFloor04  
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Custom bindings  
UUKL binding list (actuator failure status)  
Table 35 shows an example list of actuator failure status bindings.  
Actuator failure status is sent directly from the mechanical system to the  
FSCP.  
Table 35. Actuator failure status bindings  
Function  
Originator  
Network variable  
Destination  
supplyFanFail  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
Mechanical system  
nvoSwitch20  
nvoSwitch21  
nvoSwitch22  
nvoSwitch23  
nvoSwitch24  
nvoSwitch25  
nvoSwitch26  
nvoSwitch27  
nvoSwitch28  
nvoSwitch29  
nvoSwitch30  
nvoSwitch31  
nvoSwitch32  
nvoSwitch33  
nvoSwitch40  
MP580-3/nviSwitch05  
MP580-4/nviSwitch04  
MP580-3/nviSwitch03  
MP580-2/nviSwitch01  
MP580-4/nviSwitch02  
MP580-2/nviSwitch02  
MP580-3/nviSwitch07  
MP580-3/nviSwitch08  
MP580-3/nviSwitch10  
MP580-3/nviSwitch11  
MP580-4/nviSwitch06  
MP580-4/nviSwitch07  
MP580-4/nviSwitch09  
MP580-4/nviSwitch10  
MP580-2/nviSwitch04  
returnFanFail  
oadamperFail  
radamperFail  
eadamperFail  
stairFanFail  
supplyDamperFloor01Fail  
returnDamperFloor01Fail  
supplyDamperFloor02Fail  
returnDamperFloor02Fail  
supplyDamperFloor03Fail  
returnDamperFloor03Fail  
supplyDamperFloor04Fail  
returnDamperFloor04Fail  
checkSupervisedCircuits  
UUKL binding list (FSCP control)  
Table 36 shows an example list of smoke control panel control custom  
bindings. Smoke control panel commands affect all MP581s panel control  
units.  
Table 36. Smoke control panel control custom bindings  
Function  
Originator  
MP580-2  
Network variable  
Destination  
MP580-3/nviSwitch40  
lampTest  
nvoSwitch01  
nvoSwitch01  
nvoSwitch03  
nvoSwitch03  
MP580-4/nviSwitch40  
MP580-3/nviSwitch36  
MP580-4/nviSwitch36  
panel enable/disable  
MP580-2  
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Chapter 8 Network variable bindings  
UUKL binding list (automatic self-test trigger and  
status)  
Table 37 shows an example list of actuator failure status bindings. Only  
dedicated smoke control systems require a scheduled self-testing. Once  
the self-test is triggered, a status signal is sent to the panel trouble LED  
to blink.  
Table 37. Actuator failure status bindings  
Function  
Originator  
Network variable  
Destination  
systemSelfTest  
selfTestEnable  
MP580-2  
Mechanical system  
nvoSwitch13  
nvoSwitch04  
Mechanical system/nviSwitch36  
MP580-2/nviSwitch05  
Custom binding report  
It is strongly recommended that a custom binding report be done during  
and at the end of each custom binding session. The *.csv (comma  
separated variables) is the most useful type for this report. It can easily  
be opened as a spreadsheet and formatted. If it is necessary to repair the  
custom bindings later, this file can be used as a resource to recreate the  
custom bindings.  
Understanding bindings  
Network variable (NV) bindings provide a valuable way to share data on  
a LonTalk® link, but there are some limitations to keep in mind during  
the system design process. This section will help you understand the  
essential concepts involved in bindings, as well as their limitations.  
The Echelon Corporation, the company that created LonWorks® and the  
LonTalk protocol, refers to bindings as connections. Echelon defines  
connections as “the implicit addressing established during binding. A  
connection links one or more logical outputs, network variables, to one or  
more logical inputs.”  
Bindings provide a very efficient way to communicate. Data updates are  
sent from the output NV(s) to the input NV(s) only when necessary. When  
they are sent, they get to their destination quickly—typically, in less than  
a half-second.  
An update to an output NV occurs when either of the following occur:  
A binary value changes state  
An analog value changes by more than a pre-programmed delta value  
A heartbeat timer expires  
This peer-to-peer event-driven communications model often provides  
better performance than a master-slave and/or scan-type communications  
model. It is one of the key advantages of LonTalk.  
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Understanding bindings  
A heartbeated network variable has a timer associated with it. When the  
timer expires, the heartbeated network variable is sent regardless of  
change of state or delta value of that network variable. Heartbeating  
functions both as an indicator of value “freshness” and an indicator of the  
quality of communications between two devices. From the perspective of a  
terminal device, value freshness is most important. From the perspective  
of the building automation system, communication quality is most  
Node  
Nodes can be any LonTalk-compatible devices, such as appliances,  
switches, sensors, Tracer MP581s, and Tracer Summit BMTX BCUs, that  
are connected to a Trane LonTalk network. For the purposes of a UUKL-  
compliant system, a node is either a Tracer MP581 or a Tracer Summit  
BMTX BCU.  
Network Address  
Nodes have network addresses, which are used to send messages and to  
determine if messages are destined for them. A node’s network address  
consists of three components:  
The domain to which the node belongs  
The subnet to which the node belongs within the domain  
The node number within the subnet  
Domain, subnet, and node number are used to determine a custom bound  
variable’s origin and destination(s).  
Binding types  
The custom bindings necessary to use in a smoke control system fall into  
the following two categories:  
Subnet/node: A one-to-one binding in which one output NV is bound  
to one input NV.  
Group: A one-to-many binding in which one output NV is bound to  
two or more input NVs.  
Basic binding shapes and the hub/target system  
A one-to-one binding is always a subnet/node binding type. A binding  
with a fan-out shape is always a group binding type. A binding with a fan-  
in shape is always made up of several subnet/node bindings. Fan-in and  
fan-out bindings can have an unlimited number of members. Custom fan-  
in bindings are not necessary for the smoke control system. The target  
network variable will change value depending on which output network  
variable was last sent. There is no way to determine the origin of the  
information.  
Echelon uses a hub/target system to describe the parts of a binding. As  
the term implies, there can be only one hub in a binding. The hub is the  
focal point of either a fan-out or fan-in binding. The targets are at the  
other end of the hub. It is important to remember that the hub and  
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Chapter 8 Network variable bindings  
targets can be either input NVs or output NVs, depending on the shape of  
the binding. For a one-to-one binding, the hub/target model loses its  
meaning, and either side of the binding could be the hub or the target.  
The Rover service tool does not indicate the shape or the type of the  
binding. It is up to you to look at the binding summary and determine the  
shape. Figure 72 and Figure 73 show examples of a three-member fan-out  
binding and a three-member fan-in binding as they would look in Rover.  
Notice that the hub variable is repeated for each target variable.  
Figure 72. Rover's view of a fan-out binding  
Figure 73. Rover's view of a fan-in binding  
Address table  
A device’s address table resides in non-volatile memory. The address table  
serves several functions. Its main purpose is to hold the network (DSN) or  
group addresses of the devices that will receive outgoing binding data.  
Subnet/node bindings use DSN destinations in the sending device’s  
corresponding address table entries. Group bindings use group address  
destinations in the sending device’s corresponding address table entries.  
Another purpose of the address table is to define group membership for  
receiving devices. This allows a receiving device in a group binding to  
know that it is a member of a given group so that it can accept or reject  
bound message packets accordingly. A LonWorks device can be a member  
of up to 15 groups, a limit that is directly associated with the size of the  
address table. The limit of 15 address table entries will be a constraint  
when designing bindings.  
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Understanding bindings  
The address table consists of the following elements (refer to column  
headings in Table 38):  
Use Domain at Index: This number represents a pointer or reference  
to a table entry in the Domain table. For Trane devices, the value at  
index (or row) 0 will be a decimal 17.  
Group Number or Subnet Address field: The function varies  
depending on the binding type. For group bindings, the group number  
is stored here. For subnet/node bindings, the subnet address is stored  
here.  
Group Member at Node Address field: This varies depending on the  
binding type. The group member specifies a unique number for each  
member of a group binding.  
Group Size field: This specifies the total number of members in the  
group binding.  
The address table in Table 38 shows a subnet/node binding at index 0,  
which lists a device at DSN 17-1-8 as the destination. And it shows that  
the device is the second member of Group 1, which has a total of three  
members.  
Table 38. Address table  
Group  
Group  
Use  
Domain at  
Index  
Numberor Memberof  
Addr  
index  
Binding  
type  
Subnet  
Address  
Node  
Address  
Group Size  
0
1
subnet/node  
group  
0
0
1
1
8
2
n/a  
3
2
unbound  
unbound  
unbound  
3
14  
Designing bindings  
On a LonWorks job, binding connections should be designed and  
documented just like wiring connections are designed and documented on  
shop drawings. Follow these rules, limits, and the methodology provided  
when designing bindings:  
Binding rules and limits  
1. Bindings can be made only between NVs that have the same network  
variable type (SNVT or UNVT).  
For example, nvoSpaceTemp is of type SNVT_temp_p and nviSpaceT-  
emp is also of type SNVT_temp_p, so these two variables can be  
bound. Rover takes care of matching network variable types for you,  
but during design, this fundamental rule should be kept in mind.  
2. Unique subnet/node binding types consume an address table entry on  
the sending device only.  
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A unique subnet/node binding type is a specific path from device X to  
device Y. Any number of actual network variable bindings could be  
built upon this path (see below). Regardless of the number of bindings  
built on a given path, only one address table entry will be consumed  
on the sending device. Note that this rule applies to subnet/node bind-  
ings that are part of one-to-one binding shapes or fan-in binding  
shapes.  
3. Unique group binding types consume an address table entry on all  
devices in the group.  
A unique group binding type is a specific fan-out path from device X  
to a specific set of target devices (for example, Y and Z). Any number  
of actual network variable bindings could be built upon this path (see  
below). If another sending device and/or another set of target devices  
is necessary, a new group is needed and another address table entry  
will be consumed in each group member.  
4. Each LonWorks device has a maximum of 15 address table entries.  
This limit applies to all LonWorks devices: Neuron-based devices,  
host-based devices (including the BCU), and hybrid devices. Note that  
the Tracer VV550/551 is an exception; it has only 14 available  
address table entries.  
5. A maximum of 256 groups are possible per domain.  
This limit should not be a factor in most designs.  
6. A group binding that uses acknowledged service can have a maximum  
of 64 members. A group binding that uses unacknowledged or  
unacknowledged repeated service can have an unlimited number of  
members.  
Stacking bindings on unique binding paths  
Once a binding has been created, a unique path exists that is defined in  
the address tables. It is important to understand that these unique paths  
can be reused by additional bindings without consuming additional  
address table entries.  
A unique path is possible for subnet/node binding types (one-to-one or  
each piece of a fan-in) and group binding types (fan-out). A unique path is  
defined by a sending hub and a specific set of receiving target devices.  
The simplest unique path is that shown in Figure 74. The three bindings  
below will consume one entry, the domain/subnet/node of MP581-B, in  
MP581-A’s address table. They will not consume any entries in MP581-  
B’s address table. Only MP581-A is the transmitter in this example. This  
is a subnet/node binding. A good analogy would be that the road between  
MP581-A and MP581-B has already been laid down (in one direction).  
Any other information needed to flow between those two devices has a  
well defined route already available.  
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Understanding bindings  
Figure 74. One-way subnet/node binding  
In the example shown in Figure 75 on page 135, the custom bindings  
consume an address table entry in both MP581-A and MP581-B. Both  
MP581s are now transmitters of data. Both are subnet/node bindings.  
Figure 75. Two-way subnet/node bindings  
A group binding is shown in Figure 76. In this case, in every member’s  
address table, an entry number and group number are listed. A group  
binding made in this way is also called a fan-out binding.  
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Figure 76. Group binding  
Groups are unique. Two unique groups are shown in Figure 77. One  
consists of MP581-A, B, and C while the other has members MP581-A, B,  
C, and D. Even though one is a subset of the other, it is set apart by  
having a different amount of members. In this case, MP581-A, B and C  
have two group entries in their respective address table. MP581-D has  
just one group entry in its address table.  
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Figure 77. Group binding uniqueness  
When a group binding is made, all members of the group have an entry in  
their address table defining which group, what their member number is  
within that group and size of the group. Once this entry is made, any  
member of the group can now transmit information to the other members  
within that particular group. Figure 78 illustrates this concept.  
For example, the user defines a group binding which has Device A  
sending nvoSwitch01 to Device B and Device C. When the binding is  
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made, each member of the group has a entry made in its address table.  
For this example, all the devices are in Group 1. Now the user defines a  
second group binding with Device B transmitting nvoSwitch01 to Device  
A and Device C.  
But this definition has exactly the same membership list as in Group 1.  
No additional entry into the address table is necessary to define the  
group. All three of the group binding configurations in Figure 78 use the  
same entry in each devices address table.  
Figure 78. Group bindings with the same membership  
Mixed bindings are illustrated in Figure 79. For this configuration,  
MP581-A, B, C and D have one group entry in their address tables.  
MP581-A has 1 subnet/node entry in its address table.  
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Figure 79. Mixed subnet/node and group bindings  
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Appendix A  
References  
Huggett, C. 1980. Estimation of Rate of Heat Release by Means of Oxygen  
Consumption Measurements, Fire and Materials, Vol. 4, No. 2, June.  
Klote, J.H. 1994. Method of Predicting Smoke Movement in Atria With  
Application to Smoke Management, National Institute of Standards and  
Technology, NISTIR 5516.  
Klote, J.K. and Milke, J.A. 1992. Design of Smoke Management Systems,  
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-conditioning  
Engineers, Atlanta, GA.  
NFPA 1995. Guide for Smoke Management Systems in Malls, Atria, and  
Large Areas, NFPA 92B, National Fire Protection Association, Quincy,  
MA.  
NFPA 1996. Recommended Practice for Smoke Control Systems, NFPA  
92A, National Fire Protection Association, Quincy, MA.  
NFPA 1996. Standard for the Installation of Air Conditioning and  
Ventilating Systems, NFPA 90A, National Fire Protection Association,  
Quincy, MA.  
NFPA 1997. Life Safety Code, NFPA 101, National Fire Protection  
Association, Quincy, MA.  
SFPE 1995. Fire Protection Engineering Handbook, National Fire  
Protection Association, Quincy, MA.  
Tamura, G.T. 1994. Smoke Movement & Control in High-Rise Buildings,  
MA.  
UL 555S, Standard for Smoke Dampers, Underwriters Laboratories Inc.,  
333 Pfingsten Road, Northbrook, IL 60062.  
UL 864, Standard for Control Units and Accessories for Fire Alarm  
Systems, Underwriters Laboratories Inc., 333 Pfingsten Road,  
Northbrook, IL 60062.  
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Literature Order Number  
File Number  
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SV-ES-BAS-APG001-09-00  
Inland  
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Stocking Location  
Trane  
A business of American Standard Companies  
www.trane.com  
For more information, contact your local Trane  
office or e-mail us at comfort@trane.com  
Trane has a policy of continuous product and product data improvement and reserves the right to  
change design and specifications without notice. Only qualified technicians should perform the installa-  
tion and servicing of equipment referred to in this publication.  
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