First Alert FA142C Manual

SYSTEM OVERVIEW

This manual is a step-by-step guide that will acquaint you with the system's features and benefits. It defines the components and their functions, describes their operation, and instructs you with normal and emergency procedures.

Keep this manual in a convenient place so that you can refer to it as necessary.

General

First Alert Professional Security System represents the latest in security protection technology today, including microcomputer technology to monitor all system status.

Basically, this system offers you three forms of protection: burglary, fire and emergency.

Your system may consist of at least one keypad which provides full control of system operation, various sensors such as motion detectors and door and window sensing devices, plus a selected number of strategically placed smoke or combustion detectors designed to provide early warning in case of fire. Your system may also have been programmed to automatically transmit alarm or status messages over the phone lines to a central alarm monitoring station.

All system functions are controlled by your keypad(s), which are described in the next section, ABOUT THE KEYPADS.

Zones

Your system's sensing devices have been assigned to various "zones". For example, the sensing device on your Entry/Exit door may have been assigned to zone 06, sensing devices on windows in the master bedroom to zone 10, and so on. These zone numbers will appear on the display when an alarm or trouble condition occurs.

Burglary Protection

The burglary protection portion of your system must be turned on or "armed" before it will sense burglary alarm conditions and sound an alarm. Your system can be armed in one of four modes: STAY, AWAY, INSTANT and MAXIMUM. Refer to the ARMING THE SYSTEM sections for instructions in using these modes of operation.

Your system also provides a CHIME mode for alerting you to the opening and closing of doors and windows while the system is disarmed.

SYSTEM OVERVIEW

Fire Protection

The fire protection portion of your security system (if used) is always on and will sound an alarm if a fire condition is detected. Refer to the FIRE ALARM SYSTEM section for important information concerning fire protection, smoke detectors and planning emergency exit routes from your house.

Alarms

When an alarm occurs, both the keypad and external sounders will sound, and a message at the keypad will identify the zone(s) causing the alarm. In addition, if your system is connected to a central monitoring station, an alarm message will be sent. To stop the alarm sounding, you simply disarm the system.

Memory Of Alarm

When an alarm or trouble condition occurs, the keypad displays the number(s) of the zone(s) that caused the problem, and displays the type of alarm or trouble (ex. FIRE, ALARM, CHECK). The display remains until it is cleared by entering the OFF sequence (security code + OFF key) twice.

Phone Access & Voice Response Capability (Optional)

Your system may include a phone module that will permit you to access the system via a Touch-tone phone, either on-premises or by call-in when away. The phone access feature will enable you to do the following:

• Receive synthesized voice messages over the telephone regarding the status of the security system.
• Arm and disarm the system and perform most function commands via the telephone, with voice confirmation provided after each command entry.

Paging Feature

If the paging feature has been programmed for your system, your pager will respond to certain conditions as they occur in your system, and display code numbers indicating the type of condition that has occurred.

For detailed information, refer to PAGING FEATURE.

ABOUT THE KEYPADS

General

Your keypad(s) allow you to control all system functions. The keypads feature a telephone style (digital) keypad and a Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) which shows the nature and location of all occurrences.

The keypads feature a built-in sounder which emits alarm sounds during alarm conditions and produces warning tones during entry (and exit, if so programmed) delay periods. The sounder also provides acknowledgment tones when keys are pressed, and confirmation tones for successful command entries.

The keys are located behind a flip-down cover which can be removed, if desired.

Keypad Displays

There are two basic types of keypad displays, Alpha and Fixed-Word, either of which may have been used in your system.

• Alpha Keypads feature a 2-line, 32 character alphanumeric Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) which can display the nature and location of all occurrences in friendly English.
• Fixed-Word Keypads are functionally similar to the Alpha Keypads, except that their LCD display uses pre-designated (fixed) words to identify the nature and location of occurrences. Words displayed on all Fixed-Word keypads are the same, except that their location in the display window will vary with various models (see below).

Unless stated otherwise, all commands and procedures described herein apply equally to all keypads.

Fixed-Word Keypad Displays

AWAY
All burglary zones, interior & perimeter, are armed.

STAY
Perimeter burglary zones, such as windows and doors are armed.

INSTANT
Perimeter burglary zones armed and entry delay is turned off.

BYPASS
One or more burglary protection zones have been bypassed.

NOT READY
Appears when burglary portion of the system is not ready for arming (due to one or more open protection zones).

READY
The burglary portion of the system is ready to be armed.

NO AC
Appears when AC power has been cut off. System is operating on backup battery power.

AC
Appears when AC power is present.

CHIME
Appears when the CHIME feature is ON.

BAT
Low system battery if no zone number is shown, or Low battery condition in a wireless sensor if zone number is also shown.

ALARM
Appears when an intrusion has been detected and the system is armed (also appears during a Fire alarm). Accompanied by the ID # of the zone in alarm.

CHECK
Appears when a malfunction is discovered in the system at any time or if a fault is detected in a FIRE zone at any time or in a DAY(Trouble)/NIGHT(Alarm) burglary zone

FIRE
Appears when a fire alarm is present. Accompanied by a display of the zone # in alarm.

TYPICAL FIXED-WORD DISPLAYS

KEYPADS WITH FLIP-DOWN KEY COVERS ARE SHOWN WITH COVER REMOVED

FUNCTIONS OF THE KEYPAD

SEE TYPICAL ALPHA KEYPAD BELOW

1. DISPLAY WINDOW. Alpha Keypad: A 2-line, 32character Liquid Crystal Display (LCD). Displays protection zone identification, system status, and messages.
   Fixed-Word Keypad: Displays protection zone ID and system status messages using pre-designated words.
2. OFF KEY: Disarms burglary portion of the system, silences alarms and audible trouble indicators, and clears visual display after problem's correction.
3. AWAY KEY: Arms the entire burglary system, perimeter and interior.
4. STAY KEY: Arms perimeter portion of burglary system only. Interior protection is not armed, which allows movement within premises without causing alarm.
5. MAXIMUM KEY: Arms in manner similar to AWAY mode, but without the entry delay feature, thus providing maximum protection. An alarm will occur immediately upon opening any protection point, including the main door.
6. TEST KEY: Tests the system and alarm sounder if disarmed. Refer to TESTING THE SYSTEM section for test procedures.
7. BYPASS KEY: Removes individual protection zones from being monitored by the system.
8. INSTANT KEY: Arms in manner similar to STAY mode, but without the entry delay feature. Entering via the entry/exit door will cause an instant alarm.
9. CODE KEY: Used to assign additional user codes for other users of the system.
10. CHIME KEY: Turns CHIME mode on and off. When on, the opening of windows or doors while the system is disarmed will sound 3 beeps at the keypad(s).
11. READY KEY: Displays all open protection zones.
12. KEY: "Quick Arm" key permits ARMING of the system without the use of a security code (if so programmed).
13. KEYS 0–9†: Used to enter your security code(s). See Note below.
14. READY INDICATOR: (GREEN) Lit when the system is ready to be armed (no faults present). While the system is disarmed, this indicator will go on and off as protection zones are closed and opened.
15. ARMED INDICATOR: (RED) Lit when the system has been armed (STAY, AWAY, INSTANT or MAXIMUM).
16. INTERNAL SOUNDER: The built-in keypad sounder mimics the alarm sounder during alarms, and will also "beep" during certain system functions (see SUMMARY OF AUDIBLE/ VISUAL NOTIFICATION).
17. EMERGENCY (PANIC) KEYS:
    Individual keys A, B, and C (key D not used).
    On some keypads, these keys are not present and certain key pairs may be available for emergency functions.
    For further information, refer to the PANIC KEYS section.

^† Note: Keys through each perform their associated companion functions (OFF, AWAY, STAY, etc.) when preceded by an entry of the security code (as described later).

TYPICAL ALPHA KEYPAD


Fixed-Word Keypads are functionally similar, except for screen displays.

When entering codes and commands, sequential key depressions must be made within 2 seconds of one another. If 2 seconds elapses without a key depression, the entry is aborted and must be repeated from its beginning.

SECURITY CODES

General

At the time of installation, your installer programmed a personal four-digit Master code, known only to you and yours. This code is used to perform most system functions, including arming and disarming of the system. As an additional safety feature, up to 4 temporary User Codes can be assigned for use by those not having a need to know the Master code.

Note that the Master code remains in effect even when other user codes are assigned.

When performing any of the procedures that follow, do not allow more than 2 seconds to elapse between steps, otherwise the entry will be aborted, and the procedure must be repeated from its beginning.

To Assign, Change, or Delete User Codes

It is recommended that obvious codes such as 1-1-1-1 or 1-2-3-4 not be assigned.
Temporary users should not be shown how to use any system function that they do not need to know (e.g., how to bypass protection zones).

The Master security code can be used to assign up to 4 secondary User codes (up to 5 if no Duress code is assigned). The Master code can also be used to change any User code or to remove (delete) any secondary User code from the system.

To Assign or Change a User Code:

1. Enter your Master code and press the CODE [8] key.
2. Enter the single-digit User No. for whom a code is to be assigned or changed. Codes for User Nos. 3 to 6 may be assigned; however, if a Duress code (User No. 8) has not been assigned (either by your installer, or by yourself), an additional user code may be assigned to user No. 8.
3. Enter the desired 4-digit code for use by that User Number. The keypad will beep once when a User code has been successfully entered.

To Delete a User Code:
Perform steps 1 and 2 above and then stop. In a few moments, the keypad will beep once, indicating that the existing code has been deleted.

Duress Code

This feature is intended for use when you are forced to disarm or arm the system under threat. When used, the system will act normally, but can silently notify the central station of your situation, if that service has been provided.

The Duress code may be any 4-digit code assigned to User Number 8.

To program a Duress code:
Enter your Master Code + 8 + 8 + [desired 4-digit duress code]. The keypad will beep once.

Note: The Duress code must differ from the Master Code or any other User's Code.

To change the Duress code:
Enter the Master Code + 8 + 8 + [new 4-digit duress code].

To delete the Duress code:
Enter the Master Code + 8 + 8, and then stop. When the keypad beeps once it signifies that the code has been deleted.

To Change Your Master Code

Enter the original Master code + 8 + 2 + New Master Code + New Master Code again. The keypad will beep 3 times, indicating acceptance of the new master code.

Quick Arming

If your system supports "Quick Arming", the "#" key can be pressed in place of the security code when arming the system. The security code is always required, however, when disarming the system.

Phone (Voice) Module

If your system includes a phone module, your installer will have programmed a 2-digit phone access code for your system. Be sure to obtain this phone code from your installer.
Complete information regarding the use of this phone access feature is provided in a separate manual entitled PHONE ACCESS USER'S GUIDE, which accompanies the phone module.

ENTRY/EXIT DELAYS

General Information

Your system has preset time delays, known as exit delay and entry delay. When you arm your system, exit delay gives you time to leave through the entry/exit door without setting off an alarm. Entry delay gives you time to disarm the system when you reenter through the entry/exit door. The system must be disarmed, however, before the entry delay period ends, or an alarm will occur. The keypad will beep slowly during the entry delay period, reminding you to disarm the system.

You can also arm the system with no entry delay at all by using either INSTANT or MAXIMUM arming modes. These modes can provide greater security while you are sleeping or while you are away for extended periods of time.

See your installer for your delay times and record them:

Exit Delay Alerting Sound

If so programmed by your installer, when arming AWAY or MAXIMUM, slow beeps will sound from the keypad during exit delay, turning to fast beeps during the final five seconds of the delay time. Ask your installer if this is active for your system, and if so, check it.

CHECKING FOR OPEN ZONES

Using the READY Key

Before arming your system, all protected doors, windows and other protection zones must be closed or bypassed (see BYPASSING PROTECTION ZONES section), otherwise the keypad will display a "Not Ready" message, and your keypad's READY indicator light will not be lit.

The READY (✱) key can be used to display all faulted zones, making it easier for you to secure any open zone.

To display faulted zones, simply press and release the READY (✱) key (do not enter code first). Secure or bypass the zones displayed before arming the system.

A "Ready" message will be displayed when all protection zones have been either closed or bypassed and the keypad's READY indicator light (if present) will be lit.

TO DISPLAY OPEN ZONES, PRESS THE KEY.

BYPASSING PROTECTION ZONES

Using the BYPASS Key

This key is used when you want to arm your system with one or more zones intentionally unprotected. The system must be disarmed first.

1. Enter your security code and press the BYPASS key.
   
2. Enter zone number(s) for the zone(s) to be bypassed (e.g., 06, 10, 13, etc.). Single digit zone numbers must be preceded by a zero (e.g. 05, 06).
3. When finished, the keypad will momentarily display a "Bypass" message for each bypassed zone number. Wait for these zones to be displayed, to confirm their bypass.
4. Arm the system as usual. Bypassed zones are unprotected and will not cause an alarm if violated while your system is armed.

Bypassed zones are unprotected and will not cause an alarm if violated while your system is armed.

TO BYPASS ZONES:

• ENTER CODE.
• PRESS BYPASS KEY.
• ENTER ZONE Nos.
• WAIT FOR BYPASSED ZONES TO BE DISPLAYED.
• ARM SYSTEM AS USUAL.
  

Quick Bypass

If your system supports "Quick Bypass", it allows you to easily bypass zones as checked below, without having to enter zone numbers individually. This feature is useful if, for example, you routinely leave certain windows open when arming at night.

Ask your installer if "Quick Bypass" is active for your system, and determine which box(es) you should check.

To use this feature, enter your security code, press the BYPASS key, then stop. In a few moments, all open zones (and others, if checked above) will be sequentially displayed along with a "Bypass" message. Wait for all bypassed zones to be displayed, then arm the system as usual.
SYSTEM CAN NOW BE ARMED WITH ZONE(S) BYPASSED.

TYPICAL DISPLAYS "READY TO ARM WITH ZONES BYPASSED"

ARMING PERIMETER ONLY WITH ENTRY DELAY ON

BEFORE ARMING, make sure all doors and windows are closed. Refer to CHECKING FOR OPEN ZONES.

THE STAY MODE ARMS THE PERIMETER, BUT ALLOWS USE OF THE ENTRY/EXIT DOOR. PERSONS WITHIN THE PREMISES CAN MOVE ABOUT FREELY.

Using the STAY Key

Use this key when staying inside, but expect someone to use an entry/exit door later.

1. Enter your security code and press the STAY key.
2. The keypad beeps three times and displays the armed STAY message. The red ARMED indicator lights. Note that there is an exit delay in effect before arming actually takes place. See the note below.
3. After arming, an alarm sounds immediately if a protected perimeter window or non-entry/exit door is then opened, but you may otherwise move freely throughout the premises.

Anyone entering later can enter through an entry/exit door without causing an alarm, but they must disarm the system within the entry delay period to avoid sounding an alarm. If you wish to open the entry/exit door to let someone in after arming STAY, you can restart the exit delay at any time – simply press the [ ] key, and then let that person in. This will avoid having to disarm the system and then re-arm it again.

Note: When you first arm the system in the STAY mode, "You may exit now" will be displayed on an Alpha keypad during the programmed exit delay. This delay is in effect in the system even when arming STAY. When the exit delay period ends, "You may exit now" disappears and the system is then fully armed in the STAY mode.

TYPICAL DISPLAYS – "ARMED STAY"

ARMING PERIMETER ONLY WITH ENTRY DELAY OFF

BEFORE ARMING, make sure all doors and windows are closed. Refer to CHECKING FOR OPEN ZONES.

THE INSTANT MODE ARMS THE PERIMETER (INCLUDING THE ENTRY/ EXIT DOOR), WITH N O ENTRY DELAY.
PERSONS WITHIN THE PREMISES CAN MOVE ABOUT FREELY

Using the INSTANT Key

Use this key when staying inside and do not expect anyone to use an entry/exit door.

1. Enter your security code and press the INSTANT key.
2. The keypad beeps three times and displays the armed message. The red ARMED indicator lights. Note that there is an exit delay in effect before arming actually takes place. See the note below.
3. After arming, an alarm sounds immediately if any protected perimeter door or window is opened, but you may otherwise move freely throughout the premises.

An alarm sounds immediately if anyone opens an entry/exit door.

If you wish to open the entry/exit door to let someone in after arming INSTANT, you can re-start the exit delay at any time – simply press the [] key, and then let that person in. This will avoid having to disarm the system and then re-arm it again.

Note: When you first arm the system in the INSTANT mode, "You may exit now" will be displayed on an Alpha keypad during the programmed exit delay. This delay is in effect in the system even when arming INSTANT. When the exit delay period ends, "You may exit now" disappears and the system is then fully armed in the INSTANT mode.

TYPICAL DISPLAYS – "ARMED INSTANT"

ARMING ALL PROTECTION WITH ENTRY DELAY ON

BEFORE ARMING, make sure all doors and windows are closed. Refer to CHECKING FOR OPEN ZONES.

Using the AWAY Key

Use this key when no one will be staying inside.

1. Enter your security code and press the AWAY key.
2. The keypad beeps twice and displays the armed message. The red ARMED indicator lights.
3. You may leave through an entry/exit door during the exit delay period without causing an alarm.

After the exit delay expires, the system arms and sounds an alarm immediately if a protected window or non-entry/exit door is opened, or if any movement is detected inside your premises.

You may re-enter through an entry/exit door, but must disarm the system within the entry delay period to avoid an alarm.

THE AWAY KEY ARMS THE ENTIRE SYSTEM (INTERIOR AND PERIMETER), BUT ALLOWS USE OF THE ENTRY/EXIT DOOR.

TYPICAL DISPLAYS "ARMED AWAY"

ARMING ALL PROTECTION WITH ENTRY DELAY OFF

BEFORE ARMING, close all doors and windows (see CHECKING FOR OPEN ZONES)

Using the MAXIMUM Key

Use this key when the premises will be vacant for extended periods of time such as vacations, etc., or when retiring for the night and no one will be moving through protected interior areas.

1. Enter your security code and press the MAXIMUM (MAX) key.
2. The keypad beeps twice and displays the armed message. The red ARMED indicator lights.
3. You may leave through an entry/exit door during the exit delay period without causing an alarm. After exit delay, the system arms and sounds an alarm immediately if any protected door or window is opened, or if any movement is detected inside your premises.

An alarm sounds immediately, when someone re-enters.

THE MAXIMUM KEY ARMS THE ENTIRE SYSTEM (INCLUDING THE ENTRY/EXIT DOOR) WITH NO ENTRY DELAY.

TYPICAL DISPLAYS –"ARMED MAXIMUM"

DISARMING THE SYSTEM AND SILENCING ALARMS

Using the OFF Key

If you return and the main burglary sounder is on, DO NOT ENTER, but CONTACT THE POLICE from a nearby safe location.
If you return after an alarm has occurred and the main sounder has shut itself off, the keypad will beep rapidly upon your entering, indicating that an alarm has occurred during your absence.
LEAVE IMMEDIATELY, and CONTACT THE POLICE from a nearby safe location.

The OFF key is used to disarm the system and to silence alarm and trouble sounds.

To Disarm the System
Enter your security code and press the OFF key.
The "Ready" message will be displayed, and the keypad will emit a single tone to confirm that the system is disarmed.

To Silence a Burglary Alarm
SEE IMPORTANT NOTE AT LEFT!
Enter your security code and press the OFF key to silence the alarm (or warning tones of a Memory of Alarm).
Note the zone in alarm on the keypad display, and make that zone intact (close door, window, etc.). Now enter the security code plus OFF sequence again to clear the keypad's Memory of Alarm display. If the display will not clear and does not provide a "Ready" message, notify the alarm agency.

To Silence a Fire Alarm
Simply press the OFF key (the security code is not needed to silence FIRE alarms).
To then clear the keypad's Memory of Alarm display, enter your security code and press the OFF key again. See additional fire alarm information.

A FIRE alarm is an interrupted/pulsed sound. A BURGLARY alarm is a continuous/steady sound.

TYPICAL FIRE ALARM DISPLAY

TYPICAL BURGLARY ALARM DISPLAY

EXIT ALARMS

Exit Alarm Warning Displays and Sounds
Ask your installer if "Exit Alarm Warning" is active for your system, and if so, check it.

Your system may support and have been programmed for this feature.
When arming, if an exit or interior zone contains a fault during closing at the time the exit delay ends, the alarm sounder and keypad sound continuously to alert you that an unwanted alarm can be prevented if you take action:

• If you disarm the system during the entry delay period that will immediately follow, the sound stops. The keypad displays "CANCELED ALARM "or "CA" as well as a zone indication. No message is transmitted to the central station.
• If the system is NOT disarmed during the immediately following entry delay period, the sounds continue until the system is disarmed (or alarm sounder timeout occurs). The keypad displays "EXIT ALARM" or "EA" as well as a zone indication. An "exit alarm" message will be sent to the central station.

Note : The latter "EXIT ALARM" conditions also result if an alarm from an exit or interior zone occurs within two minutes after the end of an exit delay.

In any of the above cases, a second OFF sequence (security code + OFF key) will clear the keypad display.

CHIME MODE

Using the CHIME Key

This feature can be used only while the burglary system is disarmed.

Your system can be set to alert you to the opening of a door or window while it is disarmed by using CHIME mode. When activated, three tones will sound at the Keypad whenever a door or window is opened. Pressing the READY key will display the open protection points.

To turn Chime Mode on, enter the security code and press the CHIME key. The CHIME message will appear.

To turn Chime Mode off, enter the security code and press the CHIME key again. The CHIME message will disappear.

PANIC KEYS

(FOR MANUALLY ACTIVATING SILENT AND/OR AUDIBLE ALARMS)

Using Panic Keys

Your system may have been programmed to use special keys or combinations of keys to manually activate emergency (panic) functions. The functions that might be programmed are: Silent Emergency, Audible Emergency, Personal Emergency, and Fire.
A silent emergency sends a silent alarm signal to the central station*, but there is no audible alarm or visual display.

An audible emergency sends a signal to the central station* and sounds a loud, steady alarm at your keypad(s) and at any external sounders that may be connected (ALARM plus a zone number is also displayed).

A personal emergency alarm sends an emergency message to the central station* and sounds at keypad(s), but not at external bells or sirens.

A fire alarm sends a fire alarm message to the central station* and uniquely sounds at keypad(s) and external bells and sirens (FIRE plus a zone number is also displayed).

* If connected to central station.

TO INITIATE A PANIC FUNCTION AT ANY TIME OF DAY OR NIGHT:
Press an active lettered key for at least two seconds.
or
Press both keys of an active pair at the same time.

Also see Duress Code feature.

PANIC KEYS

SEE YOUR INSTALLER AND NOTE THE KEY(S) & FUNCTION(S) PROGRAMMED FOR YOUR SYSTEM

• KEYS [A], [B], AND [C] ARE NOT PRESENT ON ALL KEYPADS.
• KEY [D], IF PRESENT ON YOUR KEYPAD, IS NOT ACTIVE HERE.

OUTPUT RELAY OPTIONS

Programmed Actions
(in response to zone activity or manual entries)

Ask your installer to provide information on any special system actions that have been programmed during installation.

TESTING THE SYSTEM

TO BE CONDUCTED WEEKLY

Using the TEST Key

NO ALARM REPORTS WILL BE SENT TO THE CENTRAL MONITORING STATION while the system is in Test mode.

The TEST key puts your system into Test mode, which allows each protection point to be checked for proper operation.

1. Disarm the system and close all protected windows, doors, etc. The keypad's READY message should be displayed and the READY indicator (if present) should be lit.
2. Enter your security code and press the TEST key.
3. As the Test mode is entered, the external siren or bell will sound for one second and then turn off. Each time a protection zone is faulted during the following steps, the keypad sounds 3 beeps.
   The keypad sounds a single beep every 40 seconds as a reminder that the system is in the test mode.
   If these sounds do not occur, call for service immediately.
4. Open and close each protected door and window in turn and listen for the required sounds The identification of each faulted protection point should appear on the display.
5. Walk in front of any interior motion detectors (if used) and listen for the required sound as movement is detected. The identification of the detector should appear on the display when it is activated.
   Note : Wireless PIR (Passive Infrared) units will send signals out only if they have been inactive for 3 minutes.
6. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to test all smoke detectors, to ensure that all are functioning properly. The identification of each detector should appear on the display when each is activated.

7. After all protection points have been checked and restored, there should be no zone identification numbers displayed. If a problem is experienced with any protection point (no confirming sounds, no display), CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
8. Turn off the Test mode by entering the security code and pressing the OFF key.

PAGING FEATURE

If the paging feature has been programmed for your system, your pager will respond to certain conditions as they occur in your system by displaying a 10-digit code that will indicate the type of condition that has occurred. The 10-digit code will use the following format: SSSS–EEE–NNN

SSSS will be your particular 4-digit subscriber No. (this same number will always appear at the beginning of the display on your pager).
EEE will be a 3-digit number that describes the event that has occurred in your system (see explanation below).
NNN will be a 3-digit User or zone number, depending on the type of event that has occurred.

The 3-digit Event Codes (EEE) that can be displayed are:
911 = Alarm (NNN that follows this code will be the zone number that has caused the alarm)
001 = Open, System disarmed (NNN that follows this code will be the User number)
002 = Close, System armed (NNN that follows this code will be the User number)
811 = Trouble (NNN that follows this code will be the zone number that has caused the trouble

Example 1. Pager displays:

This indicates that your system (Subscriber No. 1234) is reporting an Alarm (911), due to zone 4 (004) being faulted.

Example 2. Pager displays:

This indicates that your system (Subscriber No. 1234) is reporting an open/disarming (001) by User 5 (005).

TROUBLE CONDITIONS

"Check" and "Battery" Displays

The word CHECK on the keypad's display, accompanied by a "beeping" at the keypad, "Battery" Displays indicates a trouble condition in the system.

To silence the beeping for these conditions, press any key.

1. A display of "CHECK" and one or more zone numbers indicates that a problem exists with the displayed zone(s) and requires your attention. If the CHECK display relates to a fire zone, CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
   Determine if the zone(s) displayed are intact and make them so if they are not. If the problem has been corrected, the display can be cleared if you enter the OFF sequence (user code plus OFF key) twice. If the display persists, CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
2. If there are wireless sensors* in your system, the CHECK condition may also be caused by some change in the environment that prevents the receiver from hearing a particular sensor. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY if this occurs.
   * Not all systems use wireless sensors.

IF YOU CANNOT CORRECT A "CHECK" DISPLAY, OR IF IT IS FOR A FIRE ZONE, CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.

TYPICAL "CHECK" DISPLAYS

Other Trouble Displays

Words or letters in parentheses ( ) are those that are displayed on Fixed-word keypads.

COMM. FAILURE (or FC)		Indicates that a failure has occurred in the telephone communication portion of your system. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
SYSTEM LO BAT (or BAT with no zone No.)		Indicates that a low system battery condition exists. This will be accompanied by a once-per-minute "beeping"* at the Keypad. If this condition persists for more than one day (with AC present), CALL FOR SERVICE.
LO BAT + zone descriptor (or BAT with zone No.)		Indicates that a l ow battery condition exists in the wireless transmitter** number displayed. This will be accompanied by a once-per-minute "beeping"* at the Keypad. Either replace the battery yourself, or CALL FOR SERVICE. If the battery is not replaced within 30 days, a CHECK display may occur. Some wireless sensors contain a non-replaceable long-life battery which requires replacement of the entire unit at the end of battery life (e.g., 5802 Pendant and 5802CP Belt Clip Personal Emergency Transmitters).
MODEM COMM (or CC)		Indicates that the control is on-line with the central station's remote computer. The control will not operate while online. Wait a few minutes. The display should disappear.
AC LOSS is displayed (or NO AC)		The system is operating on battery power only due to a power failure. If only some lights are out on the premises, check circuit breakers and fuses and reset or replace as necessary. CALL FOR SERVICE if AC power cannot be restored to the system.
Busy-Standby (or dI)		If this remains displayed for more than 1 minute, system is disabled. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.
OPEN CIRCUIT (or OC)		The keypad is not receiving signals from the control.
Long Rng Trbl (or bF)		If programmed, back-up Long Range Radio communica tion has failed. CALL FOR SERVICE.

* Any "beeping" that accompanies a trouble display can be stopped by entering an OFF sequence (code + OFF)
** Not all systems use wireless transmitters.

Total Power Failure

If there is no keypad display at all (screen blank), and the READY indicator is not lit, operating power (from AC and back-up battery) for the system has stopped and the system is inoperative. CALL FOR SERVICE IMMEDIATELY.

FIRE ALARM SYSTEM (IF INSTALLED)

General

Your fire alarm system (if installed) is on 24 hours a day, for continuous protection. In the event of an emergency, the strategically located smoke and heat detectors will automatically send signals to your system, triggering a loud, interrupted pulsed sound* from the Keypad(s). This sound will also be produced by optional exterior sounders. A FIRE message will appear at your Keypad and remain on until you silence the alarm (see below for silencing fire alarms).

* Temporal pulse sounding is produced for Fire alarms, as follows:
3 pulses–pause–3 pulses–pause–3 pulses. . . , repeated.

TYPICAL FIRE EMERGENCY DISPLAYS

Silencing Fire Alarms

1. You can silence the alarm at any time by pressing the OFF key (the security code is not needed to silence fire alarms). To clear the display, enter your code and press the OFF key again (to clear Memory of Alarm).
2. If the Keypad's fire indication does not clear after the second OFF sequence, smoke detectors may still be responding to smoke or heat producing objects in their vicinity. Investigate, and should this be the case, eliminate the source of heat or smoke.
3. If this does not remedy the problem, there may still be smoke in the detector. Clear it by fanning the detector for about 30 seconds.
4. When the problem has been corrected, clear the display by entering your code and pressing the OFF key.

Manually Initiating a Fire Alarm

1. Should you become aware of a fire emergency before your detectors sense the problem, go to your nearest Keypad and manually initiate an alarm by pressing the appropriate panic key(s), assigned for FIRE emergency (if programmed by the installer). Check below.
2. Evacuate all occupants from the premises.
3. If flames and/or smoke are present, leave the premises and notify your local Fire Department immediately.
4. If no flames or smoke are apparent, investigate the cause of the alarm. The zone number(s) of the zone(s) in an alarm condition will be displayed at the Keypad.

Ask your installer which lettered key, or key pair, has been assigned for manually initiating a FIRE alarm, and place a check mark in the box next to the assigned key or key pair.

Press and hold the lettered key assigned for Fire emergency for 2 seconds .
If the keypad does not have individual lettered keys,
Press the key pair assigned for Fire emergency.

NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION RECOMMENDATIONS ON SMOKE DETECTORS

With regard to the number and placement of smoke/heat detectors, we subscribe to the recommendations contained in the National Fire Protection Association's (NFPA) Standard #74 noted below.

Early warning fire detection is best achieved by the installation of fire detection equipment in all rooms and areas of the household as follows: A smoke detector installed outside of each separate sleeping area, in the immediate vicinity of the bedrooms and on each additional story of the family living unit, including basements and excluding crawl spaces and unfinished attics.

In addition, the NFPA recommends that you install heat or smoke detectors in the living room, dining room, bedroom(s), kitchen, hallway(s), attic, furnace room, utility and storage rooms, basements and attached garages.

EMERGENCY EVACUATION

Steps to Safety

Establish and regularly practice a plan of escape in the event of fire. The following steps are recommended by the National Fire Protection Association:

1. Plan on your detector or your interior and/or exterior sounders warning all occupants.
2. Determine two means of escape from each room. One path of escape should lead to the door that permits normal exit from the building. The other may be a window, should your path be unpassible. Station an escape ladder at such windows if there is a long drop to the ground.
3. Sketch a floor plan of the building. Show windows, doors, stairs and rooftops that can be used to escape. Indicate escape routes for each room. Keep these routes free from obstruction and post copies of the escape routes in every room.
4. Assure that all bedroom doors are shut while you are asleep. This will prevent deadly smoke from entering while you escape.
5. Try the door. If the door is hot, check your alternate escape route. If the door is cool, open it cautiously. Be prepared to slam the door if smoke or heat rushes in.
6. In smoky areas, crawl close to floor, hold your breath, and/or cover mouth and nose with a wet cloth.
7. Escape quickly; don't panic.
8. Establish a common meeting place outdoors, away from your premises, where everyone can meet and then take steps to contact the authorities and account for those missing. Choose someone to assure that nobody returns to the premises — many die going back.

QUICK GUIDE TO ALARM SYSTEM FUNCTIONS

FUNCTION	PROCEDURE	COMMENTS
Check Zones	Press READY key.	To view faulted zones when system not ready.
Arm System	Enter code. Press arming key desired: (AWAY, STAY, INSTANT, MAXIMUM)	Arms system in mode selected.
Quick Arm (if programmed)	Press #. Press arming key desired: (AWAY, STAY, INSTANT, MAXIMUM)	Arms system in mode selected, quickly and without use of code.
Bypass Zone(s)	Enter code. Press BYPASS key. Enter zone number(s) to be bypassed (use 2-digit entries).	Bypassed zones are unprotected and will not cause an alarm if violated.
Quick Bypass (if programmed)	Enter code. Press BYPASS key.	Bypasses all faulted zones automatically.
Silence Sounders Burglary: Fire: "Check":	Enter code. Press OFF key. Press OFF key. Press any key.	Also disarms system. Memory of alarm remains until cleared. Memory of Alarm remains until cleared. Determine cause.
Disarm System	Enter code. Press OFF key.	Also silences sounders. Memory of alarm remains until cleared.
Clear Alarm Memory	After disarming, enter code again. Press OFF key again.	Keypad will beep rapidly upon entry if alarm has occurred. Alarm display will remain upon disarming until cleared.
Duress (if active and connected to central station)	Arm or disarm "normally", but use your 4-digit Duress code to do so.	Performs desired action and sends silent alarm to central station.
Panic Alarms (as programmed)	Press key [A], [B], or [C] for at least 2 sec., or (if no A, B, or C on your keypad) press keys [1] & [ ], or [ ] & [#], or [3] & [#], both at same time.	See functions programmed for your system.
Chime Mode	To turn ON or OFF: Enter code. Press CHIME key.	Keypad will sound if doors or windows are violated while system is disarmed and chime mode is ON.
Test Mode	To turn ON: Enter code. Press TEST key. To turn OFF: Enter code. Press OFF key.	Tests alarm sounder and allows sensors to be tested.
Phone Access (Voice Module) if applicable	Consult Phone Access User's Guide that accompanies Voice Module.	Permits system access remotely, via Touch-tone phone.

SUMMARY OF AUDIBLE/VISUAL NOTIFICATIONS

ALPHA DISPLAY KEYPADS

SOUND	CAUSE	DISPLAY
LOUD, INTERRUPTED* Keypad & External	FIRE ALARM	FIRE is displayed; descriptor of zone in alarm is displayed.
LOUD, CONTINUOUS* Keypad & External	BURGLARY/AUDIBLE EMERGENCY ALARM	ALARM is displayed; descriptor of zone in alarm is also displayed.. Also see "Exit Alarm Warning Displays and Sounds".
ONE SHORT BEEP (not repeated) Keypad only	SYSTEM DISARM SYSTEM ARMING ATTEMPT WITH AN OPEN ZONE BYPASS VERIFY	DISARMED/READY TO ARM is displayed. Green READY indicator is lit. The number and descriptor of the open protection zone is displayed. Green READY indicator (if present) is not lit. Numbers and descriptors of the bypassed protection zones are displayed (One beep is heard for each zone displayed). Subsequently, the following is displayed: DISARMED BYPASS Ready to Arm
ONE SHORT BEEP every 40 sec. Keypad only	SYSTEM IS IN TEST MODE	Opened Zone identifications will appear.
ONE BEEP every 40 sec. Keypad only	LOW BATTERY AT A XMTR SYSTEM MAIN BATT. WEAK TROUBLE	LO BAT displayed with description of transmitter. LO BAT displayed with no transmitter description. CHECK displayed. Descriptor of troubled protection zone is displayed.
TWO SHORT BEEPS Keypad only	ARM AWAY OR MAXIMUM	ARMED AWAY or ARMED MAXIMUM is displayed. Red ARMED indicator is lit.
THREE SHORT BEEPS Keypad only	ARM STAY OR INSTANT ZONE OPENED WHILE SYSTEM IS IN CHIME MODE ZONE OPENED WHILE SYSTEM IS IN TEST MODE	ARMED STAY or ARMED INSTANT is displayed. Red ARMED indicator is lit. CHIME displayed. Pressing / READY key will display descriptor of opened zone. Open protection zone descriptor is displayed.
RAPID BEEPING Keypad only	MEMORY OF ALARM	FIRE or ALARM is displayed; descriptor of zone in alarm is displayed.
SLOW BEEPING Keypad only	ENTRY DELAY WARNING EXIT DELAY ALERT (if programmed)	DISARM SYSTEM OR ALARM WILL OCCUR is displayed. Exceeding the delay time without disarming causes alarm. ARMED AWAY or ARMED MAXIMUM is displayed. Slow beeps change to fast during last 5 sec of exit delay.

*If bell is used as external sounder, fire alarm is pulsed ring; burglary/audible emergency is steady ring.

Note: Also see Other Trouble Displays and Total Power Failure under TROUBLE CONDITIONS.

FIXED-WORD DISPLAY KEYPADS

SOUND	CAUSE	DISPLAY
LOUD, INTERRUPTED* Keypad & External	FIRE ALARM	FIRE and ALARM are displayed; protection zone in alarm is displayed.
LOUD, CONTINUOUS* Keypad & External	BURGLARY/AUDIBLE EMERGENCY ALARM	ALARM is displayed; protection zone in alarm is also displayed. Also see "Exit Alarm Warning Displays and Sounds".
ONE SHORT BEEP (not repeated) Keypad only	SYSTEM DISARM SYSTEM ARMING ATTEMPT WITH AN OPEN ZONE BYPASS VERIFY	Only READY is displayed. Green READY indicator (if present) is lit. NOT READY is displayed, open protection zone number is displayed. Green READY indicator (if present) is not lit. The bypassed protection zone numbers are displayed. (One beep for each number displayed.) BYPASS displayed.
ONE SHORT BEEP (once every 40 seconds) Keypad only	SYSTEM IS IN TEST MODE	Opened Zone identifications will appear.
ONE BEEP every 40 sec. Keypad only	LOW BATTERY AT XMTR SYST. MAIN BATT. WEAK TROUBLE	BAT displayed with ID number of transmitter. BAT displayed with no transmitter ID CHECK displayed. Troubled protection zone is displayed.
TWO SHORT BEEPS Keypad only	ARM AWAY OR MAXIMUM	AWAY and (if MAXIMUM) INSTANT are displayed.
THREE SHORT BEEPS Keypad only	ARM STAY OR INSTANT ZONE OPENED WHILE SYSTEM IS IN CHIME MODE ZONE OPENED WHILE SYSTEM IS IN TEST MODE	STAY and (if INSTANT) INSTANT are displayed. Red ARMED indicator is lit. CHIME displayed. Pressing / READY key will display opened zone. Open protection zone number is displayed.
RAPID BEEPING Keypad only	MEMORY OF ALARM	FIRE and/or ALARM is displayed; zone in alarm is displayed.
SLOW BEEPING Keypad only	ENTRY DELAY WARNING EXIT DELAY ALERT (if programmed)	No display during delay; Exceeding the delay time without disarming causes alarm. AWAY or (if MAXIMUM) AWAY INSTANT is displayed. Slow beeps change to fast during last 5 sec of exit delay.

*If bell is used as external sounder, fire alarm is pulsed ring; burglary/audible emergency is steady ring.

Note: Also see Other Trouble Displays and Total Power Failure under TROUBLE CONDITIONS.

PROTECTION ZONES LIST

One or more sensing devices will have been assigned by the installer of your alarm system to each of the various protection zones in your system (although not every zone number can be used). For example, the sensing device on your Entry/Exit door may have been assigned to zone 06, sensing devices on windows in the master bedroom to zone 10, and so on.

Zone numbers 07, 95 and 96 represent Keypad "Panic" alarm functions assigned by the installer. Zone numbers 08 and 09 are reserved for Duress and Tamper signal reporting to the central station.

This chart may be used to record the specific zone number assignments for your system. Your installer will assist you in recording this information.

PROTECTION ZONE DESCRIPTIONS

THE LIMITATIONS OF THIS ALARM SYSTEM

While this system is an advanced design security system, it does not offer guaranteed protection against burglary or fire or other emergency. Any alarm system, whether commercial or residential, is subject to compromise or failure to warn for a variety of reasons. For example:

• Intruders may gain access through unprotected openings or have the technical sophistication to bypass an alarm sensor or disconnect an alarm warning device.
• Intrusion detectors (e.g. passive infrared detectors), smoke detectors, and many other sensing devices will not work without power. Battery operated devices will not work without batteries, with dead batteries, or if the batteries are not put in properly. Devices powered solely by AC will not work if their AC power supply is cut off for any reason, however briefly.
• Signals sent by wireless transmitters may be blocked or reflected by metal before they reach the alarm receiver. Even if the signal path has been recently checked during a weekly test, blockage can occur if a metal object is moved into the path.
• A user may not be able to reach a panic or emergency button quickly enough.
• While smoke detectors have played a key role in reducing residential fire deaths in the United States, they may not activate or provide early warning for a variety of reasons in as many as 35% of all fires, according to data published by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Some of the reasons smoke detectors used in conjunction with this System may not work are as follows. Smoke detectors may have been improperly installed and positioned. Smoke detectors may not sense fires that start where smoke cannot reach the detectors, such as in chimneys, in walls, or roofs, or on the other side of closed doors. Smoke detectors also may not sense a fire on another level of a residence or building. A second floor detector, for example, may not sense a first floor or basement fire. Moreover, smoke detectors have sensing limitations. No smoke detector can sense every kind of fire every time. In general, detectors may not always warn about fires caused by carelessness and safety hazards like smoking in bed, violent explosions, escaping gas, improper storage of flammable materials, overloaded electrical circuits, children playing with matches, or arson. Depending upon the nature of the fire and/or the locations of the smoke detectors, the detector, even if it operates as anticipated, may not provide sufficient warning to allow all occupants to escape in time to prevent injury or death.
• Passive Infrared Motion Detectors can only detect intrusion within the designed ranges as diagrammed in their installation manual. Passive Infrared Detectors do not provide volumetric area protection. They do create multiple beams of protection, and intrusion can only be detected in unobstructed areas covered by those beams. They cannot detect motion or intrusion that takes place behind walls, ceilings, floors, closed doors, glass partitions, glass doors, or windows. Mechanical tampering, masking, painting or spraying of any material on the mirrors, windows or any part of the optical system can reduce their detection ability. Passive Infrared Detectors sense changes in temperature; however, as the ambient temperature of protected area approaches the temperature range of 90° to 105°F (32° to 40°C), the detection performance can decrease.
• Alarm warning devices such as sirens, bells or horns may not alert people or wake up sleepers if they are located on the other side of closed or partly open doors. If warning devices sound on a different level of the residence from the bedrooms, then they are less likely to waken or alert people inside the bedrooms. Even persons who are awake may not hear the warning if the alarm is muffled from a stereo, radio, air conditioner or other appliance, or by passing traffic. Finally, alarm warning devices, however loud, may not warn hearing-impaired people or waken deep sleepers.
• Telephone lines needed to transmit alarm signals from a premises to a central monitoring station may be out of service or temporarily out of service. Telephone lines are also subject to compromise by sophisticated intruders.
• Even if the system responds to the emergency as intended, however, occupants may have insufficient time to protect themselves from the situation. In the case of a monitored alarm system, authorities may not respond appropriately.
• This equipment, like other electrical devices, is subject to component failure. Even though this equipment is designed to last as long as 10 years, the electronic components could fail at any time.

The most common cause of an alarm system not functioning when an intrusion or fire occurs is inadequate maintenance. This alarm system should be tested weekly to make sure all sensors and transmitters are working properly.
Wireless transmitters (used with some systems) are designed to provide long battery life under normal operating conditions. Longevity of batteries may be as much as 4 to 7 years, depending on the environment, usage, and the specific wireless device being used. External factors such as humidity, high or low temperatures, as well as large swings in temperature, may all reduce the actual battery life in a given installation. This wireless system, however, can identify a true low battery situation, thus allowing time to arrange a change of battery to maintain protection for that given point within the system. Installing an alarm system may make one eligible for lower insurance rates, but an alarm system is not a substitute for insurance. Homeowners, property owners and renters should continue to act prudently in protecting themselves and continue to insure their lives and property.
We continue to develop new and improved protection devices. Users of alarm systems owe it to themselves and their loved ones to learn about these developments.

Documents / Resources

Download manual

Here you can download full pdf version of manual, it may contain additional safety instructions, warranty information, FCC rules, etc.

Download First Alert FA142C Manual