Fx2208 Fire Alarm Manual
Arleen Smelko
If you have got an 8 zone Menvier MF9300 series or a JSB 2208 (Cooper or Eaton FX2208CPD) fire alarm panel installed within your property then it will have been installed some years ago. Like all electronic equipment, sooner or later the fire alarm panel will fail and you will need to replace it. The bad news is that the Menvier MF9300 and JSB FX2208 fire alarm panels were discontinued by Eaton some years ago and a direct like for like replacement fire alarm panel is not available.
However, all is not lost as Eaton have recently issued us with the following advice on how best to approach replacing the Menvier MF9308 and JSB FX2208 (Cooper or Eaton FX2208CPD) fire alarm panels.
Click here to view the Menvier MF9300 Series fire alarm panel datasheet.
Option 1 is to replace the fire alarm panel with a new 16 zone FXP50016 Eaton fire alarm panel. You will also need to change all the end of line units on the detection and sounder circuits but you can retain the existing detectors and bases and all other devices.
Option 2 is to replace the fire alarm panel with the new 8 zone EFCV8Z-NB Eaton fire alarm panel. However, if you choose this approach you will need to change all the detector bases from the Menvier 800 series bases to the still current FXN520 detector bases. You will also need to change the end of line units, as with Option 1.
Click here to view the Eaton 8 zone EFCV8Z-NB fire alarm panel.
Option 1 is to replace all the Menvier 600/700 series fire detectors with Menvier 800 series fire detectors and replace the Menvier 9300 series fire alarm panel with a new 16 zone FXP50016 Eaton fire alarm panel. You will also need to change all the end of line units on the detection and sounder circuits but you can retain the existing detectors and bases and all other devices.
Option 2 is to replace all the existing detection with the current Eaton FX range and replace the fire alarm panel with the new 8 zone EFCV8 Eaton fire alarm panel. You will also need to change the end of line units.
Menvier 600 series fire detectors were manufactured between 1980 and 1996, Menvier 700 series from 1996 to 2004, and the Menvier (now Eaton) 800 series from 2004 to the present day. The worst case scenario is, therefore, that you could have fire detectors which are nearing 40 years old.
Here at Fire Trade Supplies we can help you negotiate the confusing range of products and brands and advise you on what works with what, to help you identify the right parts. Use our chat facility to get help or call us on +44 330 0563094
Fire alarms are an essential part of every building's safety system. They are designed to detect the presence of fire or smoke and alert the occupants to evacuate the building. However, sometimes fire alarms can experience trouble codes that can be confusing for building managers and occupants.
As opposed to "alarm codes" that indicate an actual fire detection, fire alarm trouble codes are different. They occur when a problem is detected within the system. This could include any issues with smoke detectors, wiring malfunctions, ground fault issues, or other failure conditions. When the fire alarm panel receives a trouble signal from one of these components, it will display an associated error code.
Let's now look at many different common labels of trouble conditions and talk about what they mean. I've assembled this list by reviewing several actual reference guides published by fire alarm control panel manufacturers.
As a result, you likely will not have a 100% match on your FACP (fire panel). What this list will help you to do is understand the meaning of a code. You paid good money for your fire panel, so you should understand what it is saying.
Before we get into specific trouble conditions and their codes, understand that every "trouble" message has a counterpart "restore" message. Instead of ending in the word "trouble", it will instead end with "restore".
The "Device Missing" trouble code indicates that there is a missing device in the fire alarm system. This might be a smoke detector or heat sensor. This can be caused by a malfunctioning device, incorrect installation, or human error.
The "Maintenance Required" trouble code indicates that the fire alarm system is due for routine maintenance or inspection. It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule. This ensures that the fire alarm system's proper functioning and compliance with local fire codes and regulations.
The "Panel Trouble" trouble code indicates that there is a problem with the fire alarm control panel itself. This can be caused by a malfunctioning component, faulty wiring, or a software issue. When this trouble code appears, it's important to investigate and repair the problem promptly. The fire alarm system's proper functioning depends on the control panel's correct operation.
The "Supervisory Trouble" trouble code indicates that there is a problem with the fire alarm system's supervisory circuits. These circuits are designed to monitor other systems in the building, such as sprinklers or elevators. They can detect issues such as low water pressure or elevator malfunctions.
This tells you that something has been disrupted with your normal AC power supply. The mere fact that you're receiving this message indicates you're running on backup batteries or some other redundant power source.
The "Low Battery" or "Battery Trouble" trouble code usually indicates that the fire alarm's backup battery is low or needs to be replaced. This can happen when the battery is old or has not been replaced on schedule. When this trouble code appears, it's essential to replace the battery promptly to ensure the fire alarm's proper functioning.
Grounding problems can be difficult to trace, so definitely keep in mind that there could be more than one section of wire that is damaged. All areas causing ground faults must be repaired before this trouble code will be resolved.
If you're receiving this code, it means there's an issue with one of your smoke detectors. This can be anything from a low battery to physical damage. A break in the wire (as monitored by a simple termination resistor) can also trigger this trouble code.
Modern fire panels will generally have reporting via LAN/Ethernet (which can be routed over the public internet). You'll almost always have a backup reporting path as required by code. Still, it's never good to be "running on your spare tire without knowing it." This trouble code tells you that the system is currently unable to report alarm/trouble/restoration messages via Ethernet/LAN.
Fire panels often contain a DACT (Digital Alarm Communicator Transmitter) or have one attached as an external accessory. The DACT is a mediator between older communication outputs from older panels (serial, dial, etc.) and modern output protocols. A problem with your DACT will sever this vital mediation.
Obviously, receiving this message at all means that you still have some kind of alternate reporting path active. Remember also that you may have more than once DACT, so the message may be numbered like "DACT 1 Trouble" or "DACT 2 Restore". Some systems also split the
The "Open Circuit" or "Open Loop" trouble code indicates that there is a break in the circuit or loop of the fire alarm system. This can happen due to a loose wire connection, a faulty device, or a damaged cable. This trouble code requires immediate attention as it means that the fire alarm system is not functioning correctly. It's crucial to investigate and repair the problem to ensure the fire alarm's proper operation.
The "Ground Fault" trouble code indicates that there is a problem with the electrical wiring of the fire alarm system. It typically occurs when the electrical circuit's hot wire comes into contact with the ground wire or another conductive surface. This trouble code requires immediate attention as it can cause the fire alarm system to malfunction, and there is a risk of fire.
The "Sensor Fault" trouble code indicates that there is a problem with one or more of the fire alarm sensors. It can be caused by a dirty or dusty sensor or a malfunctioning sensor. When this trouble code appears, it's essential to investigate and clean or replace the sensors as needed to ensure the fire alarm's proper functioning.
The "Communication Fault" trouble code indicates that there is a problem with the communication between the fire alarm control panel and the sensors or other devices. This can happen due to a faulty cable or communication module or a configuration error. This trouble code requires immediate attention. It can cause the fire alarm system to malfunction, and there is a risk of fire.
By understanding the common fire alarm trouble codes, you can take the necessary steps quickly. You'll ensure that any issues are promptly addressed and your building is adequately protected. For further assistance in recognizing and resolving any errors, consult a qualified professional or your fire protection provider.
If you're unsure how to address a fire alarm trouble code, it's best to contact a professional fire alarm technician to investigate and repair the problem promptly. Remember, a well-maintained fire alarm system can save lives in the event of a fire.
Digitize engineers are experts in fire alarm systems. Although we manufacture and sell central monitoring servers and mediation devices, that necessarily means that we have experience with fire panels (FACP).
This article was co-authored by David Decker. David Decker is a Firefighting Expert based in Newark, Ohio. Assistant Chief Decker was a career firefighter for 32+ years at Newark Fire Department and served as an Assistant Chief for 14 years. As Assistant Chief, he was in charge of department operations and training. He is now the owner of Command Vision, a fire training company focusing on incident command. He also has a YouTube channel where he uploads dash-cam videos captured at fire scenes that serve as training material for fire officers who want to expand their knowledge. The channel features over 40 structure fire videos and has garnered 55k followers and more than 15 million views.
There are 9 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page.
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