You are here:
- Home
- Parenting/Family
- Protecting your Home and Family
- Security & Fire Protection Systems
Security & Fire Protection Systems/Questions Answered by Expert John E. Pecore Power Quality Engineer
| Subject | Date Asked |
| Fire alarm | 1/22/2012 |
| Q: Every time we have a power outage, all of our fire alarms go off, and the only way we can stop them ... A: I can tell you an electrician should be-able to help you rig something up with a UPS. I understand ... | |
| Fire alarm | 12/26/2011 |
| Q: Every time we have a power outage, all of our fire alarms go off, and the only way we can stop them ... A: I am answering this from my cell phone. The only way you can do this is use a battery backup with ... | |
| motion sensor | 12/13/2011 |
| Q: Yesterday we had a power outage in our neighborhood and power has been restored. This morning I ... A: I need you too ask this question to someone else in this group because I am a Power Quality Engineer ... | |
| Home Security System Back-up Batteries | 11/18/2011 |
| Q: I have a home security system manufactured by Radionics. The backup battery inside the control panel ... A: Jude: How do you know that the battery needs to be replaced? Answer: About three maybe four years ... | |
| Generator for 12v Charger | 8/30/2011 |
| Q: I have a rather simple question. What is the minimum size generator required to run a 4-10amp 12v ... A: Any thing bigger then a 1500VA will work. Depending on if you need a hard wired or a plug in Power ... | |
| Honeywell 6150 Fire and Security Alarm System | 8/26/2011 |
| Q: You were helpful the other day concerning my old alarm system. I will get a new one but one company ... A: Both are excellent systems. Now let us go beyond this. GE has just been bought by UTC, so there ... | |
| Star XL 4800 alarm system | 8/25/2011 |
| Q: We have a star XL 4800 fire and security system that was installed about 15 years ago. I have had ... A: Any and all electronic systems that is dated 15 years in service, should be replaced. Most of the ... | |
| alarm panel | 8/10/2011 |
| Q: The other night my wife set our alarm panel with out any issues. When I woke up and went to disarm ... A: It maybe premature replacing the panel, but I can see that you have recieved wisdom qickly. ... | |
| External back-up battery/surge suppressor on fire alarm panel | 8/2/2011 |
| Q: We've changed fire alarm inspection companies and after the first inspection they are claiming that ... A: OH boy is this real bad. UL for the panel is designed for Hardwired when it was originally ... | |
| alarm beep | 7/24/2011 |
| Q: my alarm beeps, and LED panel in top right corner says AC First alert Professinal FA215 A: You need a new battery. Time to call your First Alert Dealer to do a little work on your panel. The ... | |
| Linear Access Telephone Entry System | 7/7/2011 |
| Q: We have an electric gate opener and a telephone access entry system (Linear Access RE-1) on our ... A: Usually when an end-user is looking for help on the internet or elsewhere that means their own ... | |
| both alarms went of fire and co2 alarms we called the fire department . they came. found nothing but we have 3 flours with a co2 and a fire alarm on each floor. they said they should all be replaced every 5 years. they are 7 years old. which brands and m | 5/19/2011 |
| Q: both alarms went of fire and co2 alarms we called the fire department . they came. found nothing ... A: No you need a fire alarm company, not an electrician, and I recommend you use FCI or Honeywell ... | |
| security system | 4/13/2011 |
| Q: We have a security system called, Security Link by Ameritech. It has never been hooked up or ... A: You might contact your Local ADT dealer in your area. ADT acquired them some time ago. You will ... | |
| HOME alarm power trouble | 3/15/2011 |
| Q: The Napco 1008e alarm seems to not to activate on the backup battery when it is unplugged from the ... A: Bad news..You have a classic story. You don't want to see this, but your battery is good, your power ... | |
| Surveillance System | 2/27/2011 |
| Q: There has been an issue outside my apartment with vandals and I'd like to get a surveillance system ... A: You are asking my opinion and I can also give your cost: Would a DVR with a 10" Monitor CIF 30 FPS ... | |
| beep beep | 2/23/2011 |
| Q: OOPS.... forgot to mention that the security system is the Z1100e. Appreciate your help. A: That really tells me a lot....Are you sure you want this public so all can see. If it constantly ... | |
| high pitch squeal. how to detect source | 1/30/2011 |
| Q: I can't find the source of high pitch whistle/squeal sound that keeps us up at night. be patient ... A: This has to be physical. I think you might have a crack in the window...where air is blowing in. ... | |
| CCTV Cabinets | 1/18/2011 |
| Q: I am looking for a cabinet to protect CCTV equipment in remote locations. Some breakins result in ... A: 21" X 21" X 8" lock box for DVR $165.20 plus shipping...plus shipping 18" x 18" x 5.5" Lock box For ... | |
| Fire Alarm Panel Model Fire-Lite MS9600 | 12/27/2010 |
| Q: I'm getting a 'System Point Fault' alarm on my Fire-Lite MS9600 Alarm Panel; I can't find any ... A: I think I do, because I don't think you gave me the full picture. I have to assume the SLC loop is ... | |
| PC2550 | 12/16/2010 |
| Q: One of our sensors does not seem to be working, but the light on the panel is lit up all the time so ... A: Your answer to the question is...yes, you will need a new sensor. It could have been frozen due to ... | |
| Burglary alarm provider/systems | 12/12/2010 |
| Q: Which companies are the best for burglary alarms and why? Are wired systems like te ones which use ... A: 1st company: LCA Electronics Miami Abel Amita Sr. 786-262-7898 Abel Jr. 786-262-1772 2nd company ... | |
| Burglary alarm provider/systems | 12/9/2010 |
| Q: Which companies are the best for burglary alarms and why? Are wired systems like te ones which use ... A: Stay away from advertised companies you see on TV. All bad. ADT and Brinks...all bad and free is ... | |
| Lightning and surge suppression | 10/28/2010 |
| Q: A Pharmaceatical company has requested for proposal for ligtning and sure suppression for its Burgs, ... A: I would be happy to help you out in all aspect of your design. I don't have to remind you the ... | |
| House Alarm | 10/26/2010 |
| Q: Had a bad storm and the alarm activated, I couldn't turn it off at key pad had to through breaker ... A: You are asking the right guy the right question. :D It is sad but true, you have lightning damage ... | |
| firebell | 10/21/2010 |
| Q: Our system is a Security Command executive series XR200 the screen says Firebell trouble and there ... A: More information.... I think you had a transit surge that did the damage.... the other battery may ... | |
| First Alert FA260 BAT Display with no Zone # in display | 9/30/2010 |
| Q: From reading some posts it looks like my system battery is low. Is this something I can do? Do I ... A: http://www.asgsecurity.com/overview/manuals.htm#firstalert The manual specifically says you need a ... | |
| Kidde fire alarms | 9/22/2010 |
| Q: We were called to a residence today because the local building inspector informed the owners that ... A: As an Engineer As a Technician As someone with an ounce of common sense. Maybe! Of course if I was ... | |
| system beeping 2 times every couple of seconds | 9/8/2010 |
| Q: John, don't have service, but have an alarm through ranger american model # DSC alarm pc 1555 rkz. ... A: Well, it looks like you got nailed by lightning. Too bad you do not have surge suppression on ... | |
| model 1225 , plug in elect. | 8/10/2010 |
| Q: the unit has quit, not functioning, in mobile home, can I get a replacement in N.C. and where? A: I don't have much to go on...name brand...? If it is a plug in, naturally if it quite working there ... | |
| question concerning security of a residence | 8/7/2010 |
| Q: Please, I need to know what are the advantages and disadvantages of using electronic monitoring ... A: Obviously in your country any kind of monitoring for protection is a good idea. Lighting and surges ... | |
| Napco Magnum 850 & VOIP | 7/27/2010 |
| Q: I have a 24 year old Napco Magnum 850 panel that works fine. I am considering changing my Verizon ... A: The truth in lending. Not all VOIP, are the same. Getting VOIP with cable, the likelihood of ... | |
| converting analog alarm system to digital | 7/23/2010 |
| Q: Verizon Fios just switched us from analog to digital phone service and now our FBIXL-31 system has a ... A: Yes there is a quick fix....but you are no going to like it. The Optelator will take the modified ... | |
| CCTV Components | 7/18/2010 |
| Q: Please assist me to identify some components of a CCTV system. The larger piece bears a plate that ... A: They are bits and pieces, no doubt about it. Looks like you have the PTZ version of the system with ... | |
| FA Control Panel Grounding | 6/24/2010 |
| Q: Is it code compliant to provide grounnding for the FA Control Panel by means of a ground wire ... A: Interesting.... I don't like that Idea at all. You might cross over other conduits that are ... | |
| FA Control Panel Grounding | 6/24/2010 |
| Q: Is it code compliant to provide grounnding for the FA Control Panel by means of a ground wire ... A: My favorite topic Grounding of fire alarm panels. It is my opinion that 99.9% of all technicians ... | |
| Lightning Storm and Fasle alarm | 5/8/2010 |
| Q: John, I have a GE NX 8 security system. It is a hard wire system as part of a new construction in ... A: One of my favorite problems to deal with. There is a lot you have not told me, but I will bet that ... | |
| corrupted fire panel | 5/3/2010 |
| Q: We have a multi station fire panel in a commercial building. The company that installed it when we ... A: You have hit on one of my pet peeves. In the beginning...six years ago lightning has been very ... | |
| would my alarm system work on Optimum Voice? | 4/18/2010 |
| Q: I have a FBII XL-31 alarm system that was installed in the house in 1996. I still have a land line ... A: You should have a 1000VA both on your computer if it is fairly new, but a 1996 computer should be ... | |
| Disarming an alarrm system | 4/13/2010 |
| Q: There was a Radionics Alarm system in my condo when I bought it eight years ago. I did not need it ... A: This I am sure of now, you have a battery somewhere. Likely the battery should be inside the alarm ... | |
| Disarming an alarrm system | 4/12/2010 |
| Q: There was a Radionics Alarm system in my condo when I bought it eight years ago. I did not need it ... A: Find the circuit breaker your alarm is on. Turn it off. It will not turn on, and likely the battery ... | |
| 4 Channel PCI VISTA CCTV DVR CARD | 4/11/2010 |
| Q: I would like to build my own IR camera system as I think I could get more for my limited budget. How ... A: I can send you a pdf file...and you can review it. It has every thing you need to build your own ... | |
| would my alarm system work on Optimum Voice? | 4/10/2010 |
| Q: I have a FBII XL-31 alarm system that was installed in the house in 1996. I still have a land line ... A: 1st, problem, your modem and Potts line converter must be on a 1000VA UPS. If the power goes out, ... | |
| Covert Surveillance | 3/31/2010 |
| Q: I would like to know if there is possible technology at present time for devices (maybe x-ray ... A: If you send me your e-mail, I will send you a pdf file, you can look over. There are several ... | |
| inherited alarm system (gotcha) | 2/26/2010 |
| Q: Greetings, I recently purchased a condo from a bank in Florida. The condo has an alarm system, a ... A: Wow...any Christian person who reads this would understand I am applauding you for your shrewd ... | |
| inherited alarm system (gotcha) | 2/25/2010 |
| Q: Greetings, I recently purchased a condo from a bank in Florida. The condo has an alarm system, a ... A: Best advice I can give you. Call your local ADT security company....they support Ademco. Tell them ... | |
| FireX smoke detector | 2/15/2010 |
| Q: John, Last week one of our hard wired smoke detectors (FireX 120-10728) was beeping as if the ... A: Based on all your trouble shooting. I would say...install a new smoke detector. You have an open ... | |
| Fire alarm horn chirping | 2/12/2010 |
| Q: I live in a building with a fire alarm & sprinkler system attached to an old Honeywell Deltanet ... A: When things go bump in the night: Cold weather will change the impedance of the wire. The ... | |
| Moose Z1100 Security System | 2/4/2010 |
| Q: I have the exact same question that Craig had on 10-20-09. I replace the battery on 2-1-10 and it ... A: Hey: he has two of them...if I were you...get both of them and ask this guy if you have any problems ... | |
| Moose Z1100 Security System | 2/3/2010 |
| Q: I have the exact same question that Craig had on 10-20-09. I replace the battery on 2-1-10 and it ... A: Well you got another problem. You might have left the old battery in there too long for the battery ... | |
| Use CAT5 cable for 12V DC to run to a surveillance camera (12V DC, 500mA)? | 2/1/2010 |
| Q: I want to set up surveillance camera system in my house. The house is already prewired with 2 ... A: I have re-read this a couple of times...both times I question this based on your answers. you ... | |
| STAR XL 4800 EZ ALARMSYSTEM | 1/26/2010 |
| Q: The company I work for recently started remodeling an old store we closed 4 years ago. Almost all ... A: Well... I think you have more then a few problems. 1. Your fire alarm panel will need to be up to ... | |
| infra red lightbulb | 1/24/2010 |
| Q: I am looking for an infrared light bulb (not heating lamps etc) to illuminate the surroundings for ... A: There are better products now available. We now have IR LED's for under $100.00.... 77, 77, 63, 37, ... | |
| FireX Model AD w/battery backup | 1/15/2010 |
| Q: John - Hope you can give me some advice regarding a problem my son has with his black lab and the ... A: Wow, I have never heard of this issue. You need the back up...this I know. If you can find the ... | |
| camera noise | 1/13/2010 |
| Q: John: I have a number of PTZ cameras and the last three that were hooked up by the tech are ... A: Well this is an easy answer: Most likely you have a technician unfamiliar with grounding ... | |
| Follow-on Moose Security Text Very Faint | 1/7/2010 |
| Q: John, on 11/3 you answered a similar question, but I need to ask a follow-on: Moose Z200, I have 3 ... A: Some good news for you: The board and circuits are good, but the LED, well they do ware out...and ... | |
| DSC 1616 failure | 1/4/2010 |
| Q: ! I got a problem with a DSC 1616 Alarm. I have been instaled a alarm one year ago and it was work ... A: It sounds to me like you have a zone problem, most likely effected by lightning damage.Get back to ... | |
| chirping | 1/3/2010 |
| Q: I have four Firex Smoke Alarms--120-10728 dated 8-22-2000. The four of them are hard wired with 9 ... A: No question about it, replace your batteries. Batteries do not last more then a couple of years and ... | |
| Interconnected Smoke detectors | 12/29/2009 |
| Q: My house was built 10 years ago and has interconnected smoke alarms. The alarms keep going off and ... A: It sounds like a power failure...for a short time, or a brown out below the operating voltage of the ... | |
| ground faults on fire alarm panels | 12/23/2009 |
| Q: Is it true that a high meg reading will cause ground faults. I have spoken to a few engineers on ... A: You can not get rid of the readings no matter what time of the year it is, raining, dry spells or ... | |
| ground faults on fire alarm panels | 12/22/2009 |
| Q: Is it true that a high meg reading will cause ground faults. I have spoken to a few engineers on ... A: Answer: no Ground faults on a fire alarm panel are generated by a grounding differential that ... | |
| Smoke alarm going off regularly | 12/9/2009 |
| Q: I just moved into an older home. It is equipped with a single A/C smoke alarm that is in a very hard ... A: Humm, Watson! Looks like they have a built in 4:30 alarm clock. That puts a damper on your beauty ... | |
| Lightning protection | 12/7/2009 |
| Q: I have lost two telephone modems to lightning despite using a COTS surge protector. This is a 440 ... A: Obviously you are a repeat offender and the answer is... 1. No 2. Yes 3. Yes, and Yes, and Yes about ... | |
| Protection of battery charger | 12/7/2009 |
| Q: I am assembling a simple power system for a camp on an island, consisting of a small generator, ... A: There is still one more answer. You gave me some more insight. I have a 1or 2KVA true on line ... | |
| Protection of battery charger | 12/5/2009 |
| Q: I am assembling a simple power system for a camp on an island, consisting of a small generator, ... A: No switch mode power supply/charger can withstand the start up of a back up generator. That sounds ... | |
| Lightning protection | 12/5/2009 |
| Q: I have lost two telephone modems to lightning despite using a COTS surge protector. This is a 440 ... A: I have the perfect protector for you: First I want you to visualize it in your mind. It is very ... | |
| CCTV | 12/4/2009 |
| Q: I like to ask what kind of cable should I use when I would stall a cctv camera in the elevator in ... A: I would recommend that you use the CAT 5 Cable, you can go further with it then you can with the ... | |
| CCTV Camera Enclosure for freezing temperatures in Canada | 11/10/2009 |
| Q: I need a CCTV camera enclosure that could tolerate cold, freezing temperature of winter and hot ... A: AAAAAAAAAAAAAh! Simple answer: You need also a 2200VA UPS, that will not only keep you alive for ... | |
| prewired home | 11/6/2009 |
| Q: Is there anyway to see if all wires to security system are live or dead? The first owners had home ... A: Well that is pretty simple. Take your voltmeter...everyone should have one, even if it is a radio ... | |
| prewired home | 11/5/2009 |
| Q: Is there anyway to see if all wires to security system are live or dead? The first owners had home ... A: Let's address one thing. This picture does not help me..with your question but! If your security ... | |
| Siemens MXL Waveform errors | 11/4/2009 |
| Q: We are having constant problems with waveform error's on 2 MXL panels. Many thousands of dollars ... A: I have answers... Siemens are using Transdector protectors...... 1st mistake. Also the protectors ... | |
| CCTV Camera Enclosure for freezing temperatures in Canada | 11/4/2009 |
| Q: I need a CCTV camera enclosure that could tolerate cold, freezing temperature of winter and hot ... A: No but I have such an enclosure $35.00 and I will supply the power supply. What is the power ... | |
| Moose Z1100 | 11/3/2009 |
| Q: My display lights up but the words are gone. I thought i was the battery but I could not run the ... A: Your smart chip on the board is blown......no on board memory. Answer as to how it happen: Case ... | |
| DSC Power 832 Alarm with keypad 5500Z | 10/24/2009 |
| Q: I was trying to disable a couple of features on the system I have but can not find out how to do it, ... A: I have a simple answer that will cost you $130.00 for piece and quite, and you will get your sleep. ... | |
| Moose z1100 Security System | 10/20/2009 |
| Q: The power light started blinking a couple of days ago and the system is "beeping" until I press the ... A: Answer: Yes... really can not add more to it, because you are right 12V battery and I have them in ... | |
| Lightning Damage to Fire Alarm Panels | 9/29/2009 |
| Q: my company has suffered damage to several Fire Alarm System panels (Notifier) recently as a result ... A: Just a follow up...If you have any questions...and I hope the CAD drawing was some use. I have not ... | |
| turn off alarm... | 9/20/2009 |
| Q: i have an ademco key pad... and in the box were the battery is it says vista 15/ vista 20... (it is ... A: The only thing can be done is this and most likely you are beyond fixing the panel: You have to ... | |
| Alarm chirps after new battery | 9/19/2009 |
| Q: I have a Lifesaver model 1275 smoke alarm. It is dated May 21 2005. We placed in the house when we ... A: You may have gotten the you in 2005, and it is safely assumed that replacing the unit will solve the ... | |
| Companies That Are Not Licensed | 9/9/2009 |
| Q: Why is our state not auditing license holders? For the State of New Jersey & New York Please, at ... A: I wish the world is perfect. I wish every security company would use all my technology to deal with ... | |
| DSC 1500 problem | 9/5/2009 |
| Q: I have a DSC 1500 whose plug in transformer failed. I replaced the transformer and the system will ... A: Remember: in electronics there is always a reason why things might fail. Sure things go bump in the ... | |
| Can I disconnect the battery? | 9/5/2009 |
| Q: I have either an Ademco Vista 20p or 15P system that needs a battery replaced. It's Labor Day ... A: A. Sorry (no) unplug it, hardwired, pop the circuit breaker on that circuit. Remember, you can take ... | |
| lightning strike and hot water heater | 8/25/2009 |
| Q: can a lightning strike damage a hot water heater? A: 100% yes! I have replaced mine too! I should know better right! Sometimes I wonder about myself, I ... | |
| Lightning Strike Damage to Hardwired Security System | 8/23/2009 |
| Q: My House took a direct lightning strike. Enough that I felt a shock like a "cattle hot wire", the ... A: Answer: Good follow up reply regarding the surge suppress installed in the 200 amp main panel. ... | |
| Lightning Strike Damage to Hardwired Security System | 8/23/2009 |
| Q: My House took a direct lightning strike. Enough that I felt a shock like a "cattle hot wire", the ... A: A lot of suggestions.... I am the guy security companies go to for advise regarding how to prevent ... | |
| Battery for DSC PC1500 | 8/21/2009 |
| Q: Could you please tell me what battery I need to buy for the above burglar alarm so I have it on hand ... A: 12V 7ah or 12V 8ah battery. May I suggest you allow the electrician take care of removing the ... | |
| DCS PC 1500 issues | 8/12/2009 |
| Q: Had a trouble light on panel. Hit * 2 and it gave a battery error. Replaced the battery and the ... A: As a Power Quality Engineer in the Security Industry dealing with lightning and surges as issue or ... | |
| Ademco Vista-20P/20PSIA/15P | 8/10/2009 |
| Q: Rapid Beeping. Don't know how to make it stop. Probably battery, but pulled panel and don't see ... A: You are most likely right, and since I can not see the panel, nor know how the systems is actually ... | |
| Ground fault problem with Siemens MXL-IQ Fire Alarm Panel | 8/5/2009 |
| Q: For about a year now we have had a problem with a ground fault in loop 2 of 4 loops of our fire ... A: I want you to know something: At 5 AM this morning, I saw your message on my Blackberry. I could ... | |
| Ground fault problem with Siemens MXL-IQ Fire Alarm Panel | 7/30/2009 |
| Q: For about a year now we have had a problem with a ground fault in loop 2 of 4 loops of our fire ... A: I see Steven, you are doing your home work. I have a long story for you. I give you a "A" for ... | |
| DCS PC 1500 issues | 7/29/2009 |
| Q: I have an old DCS PC1550. A couple of weeks ago I got a trouble light. Hit *2 and it gave a #1. ... A: I know where you are coming from, and to get this fuse, you have to shop at a speciality electronic ... | |
| Burglar Alarm license i New Jersey | 7/29/2009 |
| Q: Hi my question is do i need a license in the state of New jersey to install Burglar Alarms? A: I would say if you went to radio shack, and bought one and installed it in your house, no. If you ... | |
| Lighting | 7/28/2009 |
| Q: I hope you can help as I'm a bit confused. I'm attempting to install an external sensor light. I ... A: I hate to say this, but I do not have enough information..... I looked on the Internet for the ... | |
| Lighting | 7/28/2009 |
| Q: I hope you can help as I'm a bit confused. I'm attempting to install an external sensor light. I ... A: I love a mystery. Pictures is a good idea. Brand name of the device, is also a good idea. I ... | |
| GE SIMON XT KEYPAD PANEL PROBLEM | 7/23/2009 |
| Q: I bought the system, new, in the box, on ebay. I have the installation manual with installer/dealer ... A: "Hi, John - we do not sell Simon XT to end users, so we do not support end users when they try to ... | |
| alarm | 7/13/2009 |
| Q: I have just moved into a new home and dont know what the master code or any code to my brinks system ... A: You want an answer. I am going to give you an answer, you will not like. Brinks, don't do nothing ... | |
| CCTV camouflage q's and more | 7/7/2009 |
| Q: I have a CCTV system operating at the moment. We've had some troublesome neighbours and need the ... A: First answer I would like to give you something to look at. Look on this web site pdf file, it will ... | |
| Lightning Causes Fire Alarm to Chirp? | 7/2/2009 |
| Q: I rent a loft unit on the top floor of a new building that was built in 2008. The building has what ... A: You are getting a ground fault caused by a feed back loop up case ground based on a close proximity ... | |
| DSC 1550 failure | 6/26/2009 |
| Q: My system is about 17 yrs old and includes 3 door and 2 motion sensors. It is unmonitored but I ... A: I have a correction relating to using the term of Ohm's Law. It is a poor choice or a cop-out using ... | |
| DSC 1550 failure | 6/26/2009 |
| Q: My system is about 17 yrs old and includes 3 door and 2 motion sensors. It is unmonitored but I ... A: 1. 17 years is one clue. 2. Turning off the system for a while while doing ... | |
| DSC 832 Wireless Code 5 | 6/19/2009 |
| Q: I am getting a code 5 on several wireless sensors. It comes and goes randomly. Some days no code 5, ... A: I believe your batteries are good, but I think that the sensors may have gone bad. Ohms Law: When ... | |
| alarm issues | 6/13/2009 |
| Q: I have a * symbol in front of my date and time on my security system. What does it mean and will it ... A: I think so...you need to have your technician to reset the clock. No I can not add more to this ... | |
| wiring panel | 5/20/2009 |
| Q: I have replace a radionics panel with a concord 4 panel, and after powering it up realized that I ... A: CCTV and Gate Access Industry. Also a quick News Flash--- (do not use Ditek or Sycom protection) One ... | |
| false alarms on wireless motion sensor | 5/13/2009 |
| Q: We have had a number of false alarms on our wireless motion sensor. Co has changed sensor, changed ... A: You know something. It might pay, for you to install a PTS 240 H UL single phase surge suppression ... | |
| DSC alarm | 4/27/2009 |
| Q: I have a DSC alarm that is 4 years old. I had an issue with the fault light for the batter and our ... A: DSC is made in Canada, so no offence Canada! My guess is simple and two possible answers as to how ... | |
| Heat detector false alarm | 3/12/2009 |
| Q: I have a heat detector that's 4 years old that gives a high pitch alarm only my wife seems to hear ... A: I almost was going to reject this........but after I read it a couple of times realized you might ... | |
| dsc 832 smoke detectors | 3/5/2009 |
| Q: my smoke alarm keeps setting off. I had one smoke replaced as it was not blinking. the rest blink ... A: I can answer this one. Blinking green is good, blinking red means you need new batteries. I hope ... | |
| Change Phone # that "First Alert" Home Alarm System Dials | 3/1/2009 |
| Q: I currently have a First Alert FA120 Control Panel with a FA210 Digital Keypad. It is now monitored ... A: Obviously the fire alarm panel can be programmed to do this. Obviously I would not recommend it, ... | |
| Alarm System | 2/21/2009 |
| Q: I recently had a power surge in my house during and following an ice storm in my area. The control ... A: I could preach to everyone that has a security system that all systems must have Breakermatic, ... | |
| Brinks System | 2/9/2009 |
| Q: I have a brinks system that is out of contract. I did not renew the contract, but we still use the ... A: Well the answer is...maybe. Hard to say. Lighting can strike 10 miles a way, follow down the phone ... | |
| Brinks System | 2/8/2009 |
| Q: I have a brinks system that is out of contract. I did not renew the contract, but we still use the ... A: I hate to tell you this, but I suspect the Keypad just might be damaged. Several ways it could be ... | |
| Tennessee License requirements | 2/4/2009 |
| Q: What are the requirements to become a qualifying agent in the State of Tennessee? A: Well Toby You have to get a job working in a security company first, primarily working under a ... | |
| How to avoid False Alarm of smoke detector | 1/30/2009 |
| Q: We have an issue of False Alarm of smoke detector . The scenario is 3 Smoke Detectors are installed ... A: I think you just asked the most impossible question that I actually have to say something. I have ... | |
| DCS PC1555 Alarm Panel | 1/28/2009 |
| Q: I have a power problem, My battery sent a low battery alarm to my monitoring station and the yellow ... A: As soon as the light, low battery comes on, you need to change it. When you have a starved battery, ... | |
| home smoke detectors hard wired | 1/18/2009 |
| Q: We are in a new home (3 yrs)and our smoke detectors are hard wired throughout the house. Yesterday ... A: It might be a prelude of what is yet to come if you don't change out all the batteries. Battery ... | |
| Changing the alarm system battery | 1/12/2009 |
| Q: For some time, my system light and chime would sound off. I would just arm and then dis arm the ... A: Because of the power surge, I believe you had some damage. I bet you did not have a surge ... | |
| Moose Alarm | 1/11/2009 |
| Q: Our alarm keeps beeping to tell us that the battery is low, but we just put in new batteries! What ... A: Bad news friend....your inverter on your panel is damaged. What causes that: 1. Battery has been ... | |
| Smoke Detector | 1/11/2009 |
| Q: Hey John, I have a relatively new home, 3 years old. The smoke detectors in the house are electric ... A: Sorry, I was looking too deep into the question, and lost the meaning of it I suppose. I suppose ... | |
| Smoke Detector | 1/9/2009 |
| Q: Hey John, I have a relatively new home, 3 years old. The smoke detectors in the house are electric ... A: The answer to your question, can you move the smoke detector and use a different power source. The ... | |
| Alarm Power 832 Security System PC 5010 | 1/1/2009 |
| Q: Since we switched our phone service to VOIP the alarm is set off every time cable goes down. I've ... A: Too many problems still exist with VOIP. If you have a security system I would recommend staying on ... | |
| follow up to ADT alarm irregularity | 12/17/2008 |
| Q: Follow up to answer below: Follow-up I did notice a fuse inside the control panel. How do I know if ... A: I would say, who ever answered this question did very well. 12V 5 amp hour battery will do. If ... | |
| First Alert Siren | 12/14/2008 |
| Q: My siren only alarms once when there is a breach in system. Can you tell me why it doesn't ... A: I think the solution is very simple. Even if I do not do component trouble shooting and only do ... | |
| Smoke Detector that is NOT hooked up, won't turn off! | 12/11/2008 |
| Q: I've lived in this house for 19+ yrs. and in the hallway their are wires (3) where a Smoke Detector ... A: It is very likely that a rodent bit in to your wires, shorted them and now the noise is terrible. ... | |
| GE SIMON 3 | 11/25/2008 |
| Q: I recently purchased a GE Simon 3 alarm system from Ebay. I've had no problems programming the ... A: You need an RJ31X jack, that is where it is trying to dial out. The device shorts out the house ... | |
| Power 832 Protection System | 11/20/2008 |
| Q: I was having my home painted and I took down the sensor on the wall that detects if someone walks ... A: http://victoria.en.craigslist.ca/for/898225720.html In case you need a whole system, here is on for ... | |
| NAPCO Security System | 11/17/2008 |
| Q: We recently purchased a building with a NAPCO Magnum 1000 security system. We are in the ... A: Worst thing I can do is ask my alarm dealers what the blinking 3 on a Napco panel. So stay tuned ... | |
| NAPCO Security System | 11/14/2008 |
| Q: We recently purchased a building with a NAPCO Magnum 1000 security system. We are in the ... A: Well, I said I would have an answer. The Blinking digit 3 stands for failure to communicate. If ... | |
| CCTV | 11/13/2008 |
| Q: My question is where can I go to get info about the CCTV technician's License in New York City, A: You may NOT be able to install Burglar Alarms, Security Cameras (CCTV) and Access Control Systems in ... | |
| fire alarm | 11/11/2008 |
| Q: my dsc brand pc1500rk fire alarm goes off almost every time we use the oven or cook... even when ... A: Not knowing were everything is located, I would say I think your security company needs to adjust ... | |
| Lifesaver smoke alarm | 11/5/2008 |
| Q: I have model 1215. It is intermittantly chirping. I've taken the cover off and can't find the ... A: There has to be a battery....there may be a different level or on the back of the unit for access to ... | |
| Z1100 MOOSE RE-ACTIVATE | 10/30/2008 |
| Q: WE MOVED INTO A HOME WITH THE Z1100 MOOSE PROTECTION DEVICE. WHO SHOULD WE CONTACT TO GET THIS ... A: Moose products are no longer being manufactured for at least ten or more years ago. You have ... | |
| Firex Smoke Dector | 10/20/2008 |
| Q: My smoke dector is chirping. i have 7 of them and have changed all batteries. i do not have a ... A: One more time...change out that battery...could be a bad battery. Otherwise you need a technician ... | |
| Alarm goes off when turn on gas fireglass | 10/19/2008 |
| Q: Everytime I turn on my gas fireplace in my basement, my smoker detector goes off. it seems OK until ... A: I am sorry, but I am a Power Quality Engineer and deal with lightning and surge issues with Burglar ... | |
| burglar alarm | 10/17/2008 |
| Q: my living room glassbreak has had over the past 2 month false alarm. How do i check that. A: I like to answer this question, with questions. 1. Thunder storms, have you had a quite a few of ... | |
| Alarm Trouble light | 10/12/2008 |
| Q: We have the Power 832 Security System PC 5010. We experienced a complete power outage due to weather ... A: Well, you broke it or maybe not. 1. I bet you did not have a surge suppression on your AC power. ... | |
| Battery in motion detector | 10/9/2008 |
| Q: The number 7 lights up on my system panel indicating that the battery in the motion detector needs ... A: The Sensor, has two parts, a back plate mounted on the sensor. Take that plate off. Notice on the ... | |
| first alert home alarm model fa260 | 10/3/2008 |
| Q: i rarely use the alarm, when the alarm is not set once every couple of days the alarm will go off. i ... A: I am a lightning and surge protection Expert for Burglar alarm, Fire Alarm, CCTV and Gate Access. ... | |
| Random Fire Alarm | 9/28/2008 |
| Q: Our house has 8 hard wired fire alarms. One unknown alarm is randomly going off, triggering the ... A: Well, the best advise I can give you Brent, contact your security company that installed your ... | |
| home alarm systems | 9/27/2008 |
| Q: I recently acquired a home alarm system with a new home (FA-130CP). When power is applied to the ... A: Common sense approach: This is a new system for you Paul, so it is best that the security company ... | |
| dsc 832 5500 | 9/20/2008 |
| Q: We were without power due to hurricane IKE. When electric returned I reset time/date and now ... A: You may have sustained a power surge when the power came on or during the storm. Did or did you not ... | |
| Firex 4518 Smoke Alarms | 9/20/2008 |
| Q: My husband and I cannot figure out how to open up the battery compartment to the Firex fire/CO ... A: You can pop off the wires and your 4518 is disabled, no power. Since you battery is dead, your 4518 ... | |
| DSC Power 832 | 9/2/2008 |
| Q: Are replacement circuit boards still available for the DSC Power 832 Version PC5010? Thank You Greg A: http://www.hadepot.com/pc5010pcb-pc5010-832-board-only-p-1276.html?currency=USD This link should ... | |
| Lighting problems with Fire Alarm System | 8/5/2008 |
| Q: I have been asked to help a building owner with a constant problem he is having with his Siemans MXL ... A: Follow up: Dear Rand, below I wrote you this long letter...but have not heard from you or Siemens. ... | |
| Classic PC1555 trouble | 8/5/2008 |
| Q: I am getting a trouble code C5 on my Classic PC1555. Any idea what's wrong? A: Unfortunately I can not answer this question, but I did a little research and I think if I send you ... | |
| morse mdc16 (Sorry-) | 7/15/2008 |
| Q: I am locked out of programming on a Morse mdc 16c security panel and optex wont support it. I know ... A: I am a lightning and surge suppression Guru for Fire Alarm, CCTV, and Gate Access systems. I can ... | |
| First Alert FA260 | 7/11/2008 |
| Q: I have a First Alert FA260 in my house but it is disabled. Around every 4 hours the keypad will ... A: A battery does go in there. There might be a need for a battery in the key pad or in the panel it ... | |
| alarm wiring & Surge Suppression | 7/10/2008 |
| Q: I own a commercial garage (Tates Auto Service) and when I built this building in 1986 I (wired ... A: Hi John! I own a commercial garage (Tates Auto Service) and when I built this building in 1986 I ... | |
| alarm wiring | 7/9/2008 |
| Q: I own a commercial garage (Tates Auto Service) and when I built this building in 1986 I (wired ... A: 18 Gauge is good, and that is a good price. If you are going to do something about lightning, you ... | |
| Magnum Alert indicator sound | 6/20/2008 |
| Q: Quick ? How do I deactivate the "chirp" made when the the alarm is not activated, but signals when a ... A: but unfortunately I do not specialize in the operation of security systems. I specialize in the ... | |
| False fire alarm | 6/18/2008 |
| Q: today late in the night , around 1.50 AM , I suddenly woke up from the sleep as there was beep of ... A: I believe the Fire Alarm system/Burg System is telling you the battery is going bad. Time to put ... | |
| smoke detectors | 6/4/2008 |
| Q: When having three or more detectors wired together in your home, can you really tell by sound of ... A: I don't know about you, but the only way I can tell is, if the detectors are far enough away from ... | |
| Brinks & phone lines | 4/20/2008 |
| Q: I have a Brinks system. I have a telephone line which costs me $29/month. The only reason I don't ... A: Magic Jack and a 2000VA UPS for a long run time may be your answer. It all depends on you, and ... | |
| false smoke alarms | 3/22/2008 |
| Q: I too have the exact same problem as a previous question asked. I also have aprox 9 smoke alarms in ... A: There are several reasons as to why this can happen. Two of them come to mind. 1. Transit surges ... | |
| Smoke alarms | 3/4/2008 |
| Q: I have about 6 battery operated (ionization) smoke alarms in my house. The batteries last less than ... A: Answer: 3 volts above the threshold could have an effect on your power supply with long exposure. ... | |
| Smoke alarms | 3/3/2008 |
| Q: I have about 6 battery operated (ionization) smoke alarms in my house. The batteries last less than ... A: Logic says if you have a 12V supply for the alarm system then the voltage is 12VDC. What is the ... | |
| smoke detector chirps | 1/22/2008 |
| Q: I was changeing batteries for an elderly lady friend, and when I took the batteries out and replaced ... A: No battery is fully charged when first installed..... Also the power supply/charger could be dead ... | |
| battery low and the horn/siren | 1/1/2008 |
| Q: I have a DSC 832 home alarm system which is not connected to a call center..I have not used the ... A: AS long as there is no power going to the system, and the battery is disconnect, you should be all ... | |
| NAPCO DD-1484 Chirping | 12/29/2007 |
| Q: We just purchased a house. The home has a NAPCO Digial Microcommunicator alarm system. The alarm ... A: There should be a battery in there. Take off the battery terminals. By the way, I believe the ... | |
Security & Fire Protection Systems
Answers by Expert:
John E. Pecore Power Quality Engineer
Top Expert on this page
Expertise
Power Quality and Lightning protection for Burgs, Fire, CCTV, and Gate access systems. I also want to hear about Back up Generator issues effecting your electronic equipment. I know all 24 manufactures of fire alarm panels. If you ask me I will tell you who I think is the best, and who is the worst. A lot has changed in 30 years, and many consumers have no idea what they are buying, and what they should expect for reliability for their systems. The question is, why are you paying for so many repairs? In the South, re-occurring revenue is extremely important. Do you fall in that category?
Experience
18 years trouble shooting every name brand in after market lightning issues.
Organizations
Stormin Protection Products Inc.
Publications
Wrote a book in 1992, The Conspiracy of Electronics and you pay for it. Copyright 1993, by Terra Publishing, Salamanca NY.
Education/Credentials
BSEE, MSM
Awards and Honors
Inventor of many surge suppression and Power Guards used here in the USA
Past/Present Clients
All 23 manufactures of fire alarm panels, several gate access mfg, Hard Rock Casino,
©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.