Paging Microphone Mode; Fire Microphone (All-Call) Mode; Zoneable Fire Microphone Mode - ASL INTERCOM VAR8 Product Description

2.1.1.1

Paging Microphone Mode

It is possible to set any of the Mic/Line inputs for Paging Microphone operation. When configured for this
mode of operation, any ASL Paging Microphone can be supported. For example: DMS5, DMS10, DMS20.
These units are desk consoles that provide zone selection buttons and indicators to show which buttons are
selected and which zones are currently 'busy' i.e. in use by another user. The zone selection buttons are
programmable by the Router to correspond to the required outputs or groups of outputs.
If a Paging Microphone is connected to inputs 1 or 2 the zone selection buttons are also programmable by
the VAR Router for DVA Routing. The primary function is triggering DVAs although it can connect any
desired combination of inputs to outputs. The operation and configuration are similar to that of Latent
Routes; see Section "2.6.1.2 Contact
The button and LED data is communicated between the Microphone and Router by means of a dedicated
RS485 data link provided on each Mic/Line input.
2.1.1.2

Fire Microphone (ALL-CALL) Mode

Fire Microphone operation is configurable for inputs 1 & 2 only. Any ASL All-Call Fire Microphone may then
be connected. For example: FMS1, EAP01.
All-Call Microphones do not need a serial interface. However, the serial interface may be installed if a busy
LED function is required. These microphones have a hardwired PTT switch interfaced to the Router, this
switch is provided with resistors to allow the cabling to be monitored for faults by the Router.
A hardwired SPEAK-NOW LED is also provided. Operation is as described below:
Normal Operation: In normal operation, all-call is initiated by the controller monitoring the state of the
contact and routing audio via the DSP to all outputs.
A SPEAK-NOW LED is provided on the Fire Microphone, and is driven by the processor
once the route is made (and chime has sounded).
Failsafe Operation: If the Router detects processor failure or mis-operation, a hardware bypass mode comes
into operation for the Fire Microphones.
When the PTT is pressed, an all-call analogue bypass path is driven which bypasses all
processor controlled elements.
The SPEAK-NOW LED is illuminated on the Fire Microphone once the route is made.
2.1.1.3

Zoneable Fire Microphone Mode

Zoneable Fire Microphone operation is configurable for inputs 1 & 2 only. Any ASL Zoneable Fire
Microphone may then be connected. For example: FMS5, FMS10, FMS20.
The zone selection buttons are also programmable by the VAR Router for DVA Routing. The primary
function is triggering DVAs although it can connect any desired combination of inputs to outputs. The
operation and configuration are similar to that of Latent Routes; see Section
The Zoneable Fire Microphones use the same serial control interface as the Paging Microphones to
communicate button and LED status.
As well as a serial interface, a hardwired PTT switch is interfaced to the Router. This switch is provided with
resistors to allow the cabling to be monitored for faults.
A hardwired SPEAK-NOW LED and ALL-CALL-ONLY LED are also provided. Operation is as described
below:
Normal Operation: In normal operation, all routes are set up via the serial interface, and audio is routed via
the DSP. The hardware ALL-CALL contact is used as the PTT in order to provide
BS5839 functionality.
A hardwired speak-now LED is illuminated on the Fire Microphone once the route is
made (and chime has sounded).
VAR8 and Variants - Product Description
Functions".
Issue: 02 complete, approved
Page 11 of 54
"2.6.1.2 Contact Functions".