Simplex 4100ES Installation Manual page 77

7 4120 Networking
A standalone or MINIPLEX 4100 system becomes a network node when a 4100 Network Interface Card (NIC) or other compatible network
card is installed and connected to another network node.
This chapter describes each step of how to how to turn a standalone or MINIPLEX FACU into a network node.
Before beginning the installation, review the next few pages for a detailed description of network cards and the media cards that mount
onto them.
7.1 Introduction to the 4100 Network Interface Card
The Network Interface Card (NIC) uses the standard 4100 serial bus to communicate with the master. The NIC connects FACUs in a
network, allowing for communication between each panel via fiber, modem, or twisted shielded pair wire in a Class X wiring configuration.
The NIC is designed to be connected in a point-to-point arrangement, so that one wire fault does not cause the entire system to fail. The
point-to-point arrangement provides the most secure and fault-tolerant wiring possible.
Two types of media boards can be used with the NIC card.
• The Fiber-Optic Media Card can be used for electrically noisy environments or for connecting externally to other buildings.
• Non-4100ES/4100U only: the Modem Media Card is typically used when a large transmission distance is required.
• The Wired Media Card is used in all other types of applications.
Up to two media boards can be plugged into each NIC. The same NIC can use a combination of two types of media boards (for example, a
NIC may have a wired media card connected to port 1 and a fiber-optic media card connected to port 2).
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4100ES Fire Alarm System Installation Guide
574-848 Rev. BQ