DSC Power 832 <http://www.dscsec.com/nwpower832.htm>
I have installed a DSC Power 832 (model PC5010) security system. It is a wonderful, expandable, 8 to 32 zone, 1 or 2 partitions (independent areas) security system. It is programmable with more programmable features than one will use.
SUGGESTIONS
I suggest that the following be considered:
FURNACE SENSOR
I have included a furnace sensor which monitors the operation of the
building heating system. It also alerts if there is a long duration
power outage. This is discussed in another document written by me.
SMOKE DETECTORS
The smoke detectors are powered by the alarm panel (12 volt) so they
function even during a power outage. Multiple smoke detectors can
usually be interconnected so if one goes into alarm, all smoke detectors
will alarm as well. A separate output on the smoke detectors is connected
to the alarm panel.
HEAT SENSORS
The smoke detectors are not suitable for furnace rooms. Use heat
sensors. Thermal Detectors with a 135 Degrees F. set point are common.
PANIC (ASSISTANCE) BUTTONS
A wireless panic pendant is available for persons who may have medical
problems or who live alone. The pendant is waterproof and has a neck
cord or can be attached to clothing. It is a little large.
In addition to a wireless pendant, panic buttons are recommended for areas like washrooms. One in the basement is also recommended. In general, there should be a panic (assistance) button on each floor.
These wired buttons have recesses bottom entry button access to prevent accidental access.
The panic (assistance) buttons and pendant should cause the audible alarm to sound (siren to sound) to alert people who may be nearby. This also informs the user that the button has been successfully pressed. It also alerts the occupant should an the alarm be activated accidentally.
VOICE DIALLER
I successfully integrated a Voice Dialler (Delta
Vision <http://www.deltavision.com/> DI 4500). This is a 4
channel (4 message) automatic voice telephone dialler. I use it for
notification of:
These voice dialler units also support pocket paging numeric messages and/or voice messages, so a pocket pager can receive the calls.
The dialler is available in 2 or 4 channel versions. I used a DSC PC5208 output module to interface with the dialler. A small circuit was designed as part of the interface. For more information see document TN 99/06 (CLICK here).
One has to wonder why have a security system monitored by a commercial motoring station. The monitor station can tell more, so I understand, but if the phone line is cut it does not matter, no calls get out.
PROGRAMMING
The panel must be programmed at least once after it is installed.
This us usually done by the installer. Programming is basically the
selection of panel options and the entering of telephone numbers and user
access codes.
Programming the panel can be done with a computer, locally or remotely by modem using a computer, or by using a key pad. If a key pad is used for programming then a plain language Alpha (text) key pad is recommended. Two computer connections are supported. Dial-up from a remote computer and serial connection to the panel from a local computer. If the latter is used then a PCLINK kit is required and also a 4 wire RS-232 connection to the local computer. Programming is easiest using a computer.
Zones can be bypassed, disabled, or attributes modified remotely using the programming software. An event buffer records all events (arming, disarming, alarms, and troubles) and can be accessed using a computer running the programming software.
The DSC programming software (uploading software) runs on a 486 running DOS, windows 3.1, or 95/98 and with the use of the programming work sheets and manual is easy after some familiarity is acquired.
MANUALS
The alarm panel comes with manuals. Assuming that you own the
system, the installer should leave you with 2 manuals:
APPENDIX Downloading Software
A windoze software version should be available soon. I used Downloading
Software DLS-1 V6.5C which is DOS based. There are two special areas
which need attention when using this type of software.
a) Memory
A minimum of 590 K conventional memory is required. I used a
set of special Autoexec.bat and Config.sys files to configure my computer
for use with this software. These files allow me to easily disable
some accessories, like CD ROM drivers and free up sufficient memory. See
APPENDIX:
Computer Memory. Click Here for these files.
b) Modem
The DOS based Downloading Software DLS-1 V6.5C will only support a
limited modem command set. The modems must also be able to change
baud rates on-the-fly as the software uses 1200 baud (or 110 baud) for
initialization and dialling and then change to either 300 baud or 110 baud
(Bell 103) for communication to the panel. Also, some modems required
a modified initialized string to work properly with this software.
Solutions to these problems are discussed in another document written by
me.
See APPENDIX: Using Other Modems with the DSC Downloading Software. Click Here.
c) PC LINK
A PC LINK Local Downloading Kit can be purchased from you local alarm
installer or distributor. Alternatively, a unit can be made using
commercially available parts. For PC LINK
Local Downloading Kit wiring, click here.
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Updated: February 10, 2000
October 30, 1999
August 13, 2000
August 20, 2000
