Troubleshooting - Firecom 5000D Series Installation & Operation Manual

TROUBLESHOOTING

Troubleshooting a Firecom 5000D Series Intercom
The Firecom 5000D Series Intercoms, when installed properly and adjusted according to specifications, will perform
reliably and offer you the finest in hearing protection and enhanced communication. However, as with any electronic
equipment, occasionally a malfunction may occur.
In the following sections, you will find information that will help familiarize you with the Intercom system and aid in the
troubleshooting process.
If the symptoms you are experiencing are not covered in this manual, or if you are having difficulty troubleshooting your
system, contact your local Firecom Dealer for assistance.
IF THE SYSTEM DOES NOT OPERATE AS EXPECTED, CHECK THE FOLLOWING ITEMS FIRST:
Check that the apparatus master switch is on.
•
Check the fuse or circuit breaker.
•
Check system wiring and interconnections.
•
Check the orientation of ALL RJ-12 Modular Connectors on BOTH ends of each CA Cable. See Modular Plug
•
Installation (page 21).
• Check that the headsets are charged, have power turned on, and are connected to the base station.
Check Intercom and headset control settings.
•
Check all Intercom ports for bent or stuck pins that need to be straightened.
•
If these steps do not correct the problem, review the Advanced Troubleshooting procedures on pages 24-25.
ALTERNATOR WHINE & OTHER DISTRACTING NOISES
Because of the level of ambient noise present with the apparatus motor running, alternator whine and other noises may
not be noticed in the communications systems until an Intercom is added. A noisy system will always be more apparent,
once an Intercom is installed.
COMMON CAUSES OF NOISE ON THE COMMUNICATION CIRCUIT
Improper installation
•
Intercom adjusted improperly
•
• Radio Interface not connected properly
• Intercom power connections dirty, loose or connected to the wrong location
• Battery terminals corroded
A faulty alternator
•
Generally, the problem is not caused by the alternator, but is usually the result of a difference in potential between the
apparatus radio signal ground and Intercom signal ground. Additional sources may also exist in the apparatus electrical
system.
TO REDUCE OR ELIMINATE ALTERNATOR WHINE:
Connect the apparatus radio to the cleanest power source: a source without motors (e.g. heaters, windshield
•
wipers, etc.), sirens, strobes or flashers.
• Use the same precautions when connecting the Intercom power.
• Ensure that the power and ground connections for the radio and the Intercom are clean and tight.
• Ensure that the power and ground wires for the radio and the Intercom are no smaller in diameter than 18
AWG.
Keep all battery connections clean and free from dirt and corrosion.
•
• Use separate noise filters on radio and/or Intercom power as needed
24