Control Panel Compatibility

AMS-220/220T AMS220/220T Smoke Detectors are addressable system detectors

Addressable Smoke Detector that are only for use with DSC fire and security control panels
equipped with the compatible interface. The AMS220/220T Smoke
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS Detectors cannot be used with a standard 2-wire smoke detector
interface. Any standard 2-wire smoke detector, including the DSC
READ THIS INSTRUCTION SHEET THOROUGHLY BEFORE MN220 series, will not operate on an addressable circuit. The
INSTALLING AND USING YOUR SMOKE DETECTOR AMS220/220T series and the MN220 series are not compatible,
interchangeable or substitutable.
The addressable interfaces have a proprietary power and signaling
Features system. Voltage ratings are not indicative of compatibility. The
current rating is provided for circuit loading calculations only.
• Advanced 90° photoelectric detection pattern and specially Please refer to the control panel information for details on the
designed smoke chamber* for superior detection and dust installation of addressable circuits.
resistance
AMS220/220T detectors are compatible with the following control
• Unique high signal-to-noise ratio and superior RFI immunity to units:
prevent false alarms
PC4010/4020 v3.0
• Excellent smoke access provides reliable detection for all
smoke flow directions and velocities
• Solid-state LED red Indicator Light
• 57°C (135°F) fixed temperature heat sensor option (AMS-220T)
• Attractive styling for any decor
• ULC listed S529 / UL listed UL 268

Specifications
Current Rating ......... 0.8 mA standby; 1.5 mA in test/alarm mode
Temp Sensor .................................................... 135oF / 57oC fixed
Smoke Sensitivity ..................... 2.3%/ft obscuration ±0.5%/ft (UL)
.............................................. 2.5%/ft obscuration ±0.5%/ft (ULC)

Operating Environment ...................... 0°C - 37.8°C (32°F - 100°F)

..................................................... 5% - 93% RH, non-condensing Introduction
The DSC AMS-220/220T Smoke Detectors are smoke detectors
Field Test ................................ Smoke Test programming options intended for open area protection. They are suited for commercial,
............................................ Gemini 501 Smoke Alarm Analyser** institutional and residential fire alarm systems.
Dimensions ............................ 2”/51mm deep; 5.13”/131mm wide The DSC AMS-220/220T Photoelectric Smoke Detector incorporates
many advanced design features to provide years of reliable
operation. It is important to follow the installation and operation
instructions on this sheet to ensure that the unit will function properly
Models — even the best designed smoke detector will be rendered useless
AMS-220: Addressable Smoke Detector if it is not connected or located properly.
AMS-220T: Addressable Smoke Detector and Fixed Temp. (135oF It is very important that you understand how to test and maintain your
/ 57oC) Sensor system. Refer to the instruction manual for your alarm system, and
familiarise yourself with how the fire alarm functions of your system
operate. Be sure to test your system regularly following the test
procedures described in your manual. If you should ever have
problems operating or testing your system, and especially if there
are problems with the fire alarm functions, contact your smoke
detector installer or dealer immediately for service.
While smoke detectors and alarm systems are designed to warn you
of potentially dangerous situations, no system can prevent
emergencies. An alarm system is not a substitute for life and
property insurance; you should always maintain appropriate
insurance coverage.

* Protected under Canadian patent No. 1452296. Other patents pending.

** Gemini Scientific, 1122B Aster Ave., Sunnyvale, CA 94086
Tel: 408-554-0310
How the Smoke Detector Works Guidelines for Locating Smoke Detectors
As shown in the illustration, a light source is directed across the On smooth ceilings, detectors may be spaced 9.1m (30 feet) apart
smoke chamber and is not normally reflected into the sensing as a guide. Other spacing may be required depending on ceiling
element. When smoke enters the chamber, the light beam is scattered height, air movement, the presence of joists, uninsulated ceilings,
by the smoke and is reflected into the sensor. When enough light is etc. Consult National Fire Alarm Code NFPA 72, CAN/ULS-S553-
detected by the sensor, an alarm is activated. M86 or other appropriate national standards for installation
recommendations.
Do not locate smoke detectors at the top of peaked or gabled
ceilings; the dead air space in these locations may prevent the unit
from detecting smoke.
Avoid areas with turbulent air flow, such as near doors, fans or
Normally, light pulses in the Smoke Chamber
windows. Rapid air movement around the detector may prevent
Smoke in the Smoke Chamber deflects light
do not reach the light sensor into the light sensor, triggering an alarm. smoke from entering the unit.
The control panel checks the devices routinely to monitor any Do not locate detectors in areas of high humidity.
alarm or trouble condition. If the device’s power is too low, it will Do not locate detectors in areas where the temperature rises above
send a low power trouble to the control panel. 38oC (100oF) or falls below 5oC (41oF).
The AMS-220/220T is programmed to test its sensitivity every 45
seconds. If the sensitivity is too low, it will send a low sensitivity
trouble to the control panel.
Normally the indicator light pulses every 45 seconds. When smoke
is detected, the indicator light flashes rapidly and a smoke alarm
signal is sent to the control panel. When the smoke clears the
detector automatically resets, however the control panel will remain
in alarm until an access code is entered at a system keypad.
When a high temperature is detected, the indicator light continues
to pulse once every 45 seconds and a heat alarm signal is sent to
the control panel. The control panel will remain in alarm until an
access code is entered at a system keypad. The detector resets
automatically when the temperature goes below 135°F/57°C.

Limitations of Smoke Detectors

While the AMS-220/220T Smoke Detector has been designed for
reliability, it is important to know that all smoke detectors have
limitations.
• Smoke detectors will not work without power. Devices powered
from a control panel will not function if the control panel’s AC and Smoke detectors should always be installed in accordance with
battery backup power supplies both fail. NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm Code. Smoke detectors should
• Smoke detectors can only generate an alarm when smoke gets always be located in accordance with:
inside the smoke chamber; anything that prevents smoke from • Paragraph 2-2.1.1.1 of NFPA 72, Chapter 2.:“Smoke detectors
entering the smoke chamber may prevent or delay an alarm. shall be installed outside of each separate sleeping area in the
Refer to the ‘Guidelines for Locating Smoke Detectors’ on this immediate vicinity of the bedrooms and on each additional story
Instruction Sheet; smoke detectors should be located on at least of the family living unit, including basements and excluding crawl
every floor of the premises, preferably in every room. It is also spaces and unfinished attics. In new construction, a smoke
important to avoid obstructions, such as closed doors, that may detector also shall be installed in each sleeping room.”
prevent smoke from reaching the unit. A smoke detector will not
detect a fire in the walls, in the chimney or on the roof of a building • Paragraph 2-2.1.1.2 of NFPA 72, Chapter 2.: “Split level
until smoke enters the smoke chamber. arrangement. Smoke detectors are required where shown. Smoke
• Smoke detectors have certain obvious limitations: they may not detectors are optional where a door is not provided between living
provide protection for someone smoking in bed, for children room and recreation room.”
playing with matches, or for sudden and violent explosions. A
smoke detector is a single part of overall fire safety precautions.
Owner’s Maintenance Instructions
The smoke detector should never be seen as a substitute for a The AMS-220 Smoke Detector is designed to require a minimum of
complete fire safety program. maintenance. If the case becomes dusty, wipe the case gently with
a soft dry cloth. If the case is greasy, wipe it gently with a soft cloth
slightly dampened with soapy water.
Never disassemble the smoke detector. There are no user
serviceable parts inside the unit. Never paint the unit, as paint
may prevent smoke from entering the unit. If you are planning
renovations or repainting, contact your Installer and ask that
the unit be temporarily removed until work is complete.
If the unit is located in an area where it is exposed to high levels of
dust or insects and is found to cause false alarms, it may require
service; contact your smoke detector installer or dealer.
Mounting the Unit Installation Testing
The AMS-220 Smoke Detector mounts to a standard 4" octagonal When all connections are completed, apply power to the system as
electrical box. described in the control panel’s installation manual. If all connections
are correct, there should be no alarm from any of the smoke
Remove the mounting plate from the case by pushing the locking tab
detectors. If an alarm occurs, ensure that there is not an actual alarm
and turning the mounting plate counter-clockwise. Attach the mounting
condition. If there is no actual alarm, remove power from the system
plate to the electrical box (see diagram below for orientation).
and check all smoke detectors for correct wiring.
If no alarm occurs, test each smoke detector by turning the Smoke
Test option ON in the control panel’s installer’s programming mode.
The programming sections are as follows:
PC4010/4020 (v3.0) Reference Number [0014XX02]
where XX=Partition #
If a detector fails any part of the test, the zone will be latched in the
trouble state until the next test or until you exit the Installer’s
Programming mode. The test will take 60 seconds.

Testing Smoke Detector Sensitivity

The sensitivity of the smoke detector should be verified at least once
per year.
Smoke sensitivity may be measured in a correlated UL268 or
CAN/ULC S529-M87 smoke box. DSC will conduct this test for a
Wiring nominal charge. If a returned unit is found outside of its marked
Refer to the connection diagram below: sensitivity range, DSC will clean and restore the unit’s sensitivity
to its marked range.
Smoke sensitivity of installed detectors can be measured without
removal with the Gemini Model 501 Aerosol Smoke Detector
Analyzer*. Follow the instructions supplied with the instrument. Start
with the sensitivity corresponding to the lowest marked detector
sensitivity; no alarm should be indicated. Reset with the highest
sensitivity setting; an alarm should then be indicated. (Enter an
access code at a system keypad to silence the alarm. Consult the
system instruction manual for information on fire alarm operation
and testing. Before testing, alert the occupants and the monitoring
station that a fire alarm test is being conducted.) These results
Before connecting the unit, prepare the wires from the electrical box indicate that the unit is within its marked sensitivity range. Other
for connection; the wires should not be frayed or bent. settings can be tried to bracket the detector’s sensitivity to a
narrower sensitivity range, such as may be important during annual
CAUTION: If the power connections are reversed, the unit will tests to quantify any change over time.
not operate. The unit is protected against damage from incorrect
wiring. Installer’s Maintenance Instructions
When wiring is completed, inspect the wiring and correct any errors Normally, the AMS-220 Smoke Detector will not require maintenance.
before applying power to the unit. When the wiring has been If the unit is mounted in a high dust environment, the inlet areas of
thoroughly reviewed, neatly insert the wires into the electrical box the case may be vacuumed with a soft brush attachment.
and secure the unit to the mounting plate. Be sure to inform the user and their monitoring station when
THIS EQUIPMENT SHOULD BE INSTALLED IN ACCORDANCE maintenance of any sort is performed on the smoke detector or any
WITH THE NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION’S part of the alarm control system. Always test smoke detectors after
STANDARD 72 (National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch maintenance. If a smoke detector continues to generate nuisance
Park, Quincy, MA 02269). alarms even after vacuuming, return the unit to DSC for service.
Contact DSC at the address and number below to obtain a return
Device Enrollment authorisation number before returning the unit.
The serial number located on the back of the device must be
enrolled into the alarm control panel via Installer’s Programming Installer’s Responsibility to the User
([✱] [8] [Installer’s Code]). This procedure is outlined for the It is the Installer’s responsibility to thoroughly instruct the end user
PC4010/4020 v3.0 in the control panel Installation Manual. of the system on the operation, testing and maintenance of their
system. The Installer should fully explain and demonstrate all
WARNING: Connect only DSC Addressable Series devices to functions of the alarm control system and any equipment, such as
the addressable loop connections. Connection of ANY other smoke detectors, connected to it. The user should be provided with
type of device will impair operation. Any devices other than all instruction sheets and manuals for their system and any
Addressable Series devices which require power to operate components connected to it. Complete and thorough instruction for
must be powered separately. the user is essential to ensure they will obtain the greatest benefit
from their system. Providing the user with complete operational
Dust Cover information will also benefit the Installer through a reduction in
The dust cover is intended to protect the unit from dust and dirt service calls for nuisance alarms.
entry, only while the unit is not in service.
CAUTION: The smoke detector will not function with the dust
cover in place.
Household Fire Safety Audit Limited Warranty
Most fires occur in the home. To minimize this danger, we recommend Digital Security Controls Ltd. warrants that for a period of five years from the date
that a household fire safety audit be conducted and a fire escape of purchase, the product shall be free of defects in materials and workmanship under
plan be developed. normal use and that in fulfilment of any breach of such warranty, Digital Security
Controls Ltd. shall, at its option, repair or replace the defective equipment upon
1. Are all electrical appliances and outlets in a safe condition? return of the equipment to its repair depot. This warranty applies only to defects in
Check for frayed cords, overloaded lighting circuits, etc. If you parts and workmanship and not to damage incurred in shipping or handling, or
are uncertain about the condition of your electrical appliances or damage due to causes beyond the control of Digital Security Controls Ltd. such as
household service, have a professional evaluate these units. lightning, excessive voltage, mechanical shock, water damage, or damage arising out
of abuse, alteration or improper application of the equipment.
2. Are all flammable liquids stored safely in closed containers in a The foregoing warranty shall apply only to the original buyer, and is and shall be in
well ventilated cool area? Cleaning with flammable liquids should lieu of any and all other warranties, whether expressed or implied and of all other
be avoided. obligations or liabilities on the part of Digital Security Controls Ltd. Digital Security
Controls Ltd. neither assumes, nor authorizes any other person purporting to act on
3. Are fire hazardous materials (matches) well out of reach of its behalf to modify or to change this warranty, nor to assume for it any other warranty
children? or liability concerning this product.
4. Are furnaces and wood burning appliances properly installed, In no event shall Digital Security Controls Ltd. be liable for any direct, indirect or
clean and in good working order? Have a professional evaluate consequential damages, loss of anticipated profits, loss of time or any other losses
incurred by the buyer in connection with the purchase, installation or operation or
these appliances.
failure of this product.
Smoke Detectors
Smoke detectors that are a part of this system may not properly alert occupants
Fire Escape Planning of a fire for a number of reasons, some of which follow. The smoke detectors may
There is often very little time between the detection of a fire and the have been improperly installed or positioned. Smoke may not be able to reach the
smoke detectors, such as when the fire is in a chimney, walls or roofs, or on the
time it becomes deadly. It is thus very important that a family escape other side of closed doors. Smoke detectors may not detect smoke from fires on
plan be developed and rehearsed. another level of the residence or building.
1. Every family member should participate in developing the escape Every fire is different in the amount of smoke produced and the rate of burning.
plan. Smoke detectors cannot sense all types of fires equally well. Smoke detectors
may not provide timely warning of fires caused by carelessness or safety hazards
2. Study the possible escape routes from each location within the such as smoking in bed, violent explosions, escaping gas, improper storage of
house. Since many fires occur at night, special attention should be flammable materials, overloaded electrical circuits, children playing with matches
given to the escape routes from sleeping quarters. or arson.
Even if the smoke detector operates as intended, there may be circumstances
3. Escape from a bedroom must be possible without opening the when there is insufficient warning to allow all occupants to escape in time to
interior door. avoid injury or death.
Consider the following when making your escape plans: Warning: Digital Security Controls Ltd. recommends that the entire system be
completely tested on a regular basis. However, despite frequent testing, and due
• Make sure that all perimeter doors and windows are easily to, but not limited to, criminal tampering or electrical disruption, it is possible for
opened. Ensure that they are not painted shut, and that their this product to fail to perform as expected.
locking mechanisms operate smoothly. Important Information: Changes or modifications not expressly approved by
Digital Security Controls Ltd. could void the user’s authority to operate this
• If opening or using the exit is too difficult for children, the elderly equipment.
or handicapped, plans for rescue should be developed. This
includes making sure that those who are to perform the rescue This device complies with part 15 of the FCC rules. Operation is subject to the
can promptly hear the fire warning signal. following two conditions: (1) This device may not cause harmful interference, and
(2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may
• If the exit is above the ground level, an approved fire ladder or cause undesired operation.
rope should be provided as well as training in its use.
• Exits on the ground level should be kept clear. Be sure to remove
snow from exterior patio doors in winter; outdoor furniture or
equipment should not block exits.
• Each person should know of a predetermined assembly point
where everyone can be accounted for i.e.: across the street or at
a neighbour’s house. Once everyone is out of the building, call the
fire department.
• A good plan emphasizes quick escape. Do not investigate or
attempt to fight the fire, and do not gather belongings or pets as
this wastes valuable time. Once outside, do not re-enter the
house. Wait for the fire department.
• Write the fire escape plan down and rehearse it frequently so that
should an emergency arise, everyone will know what to do. Revise
the plan as conditions change, such as the number of people in
the home, or if there are changes to the building’s construction.
• Make sure your fire warning system is operational by conducting
weekly tests. If you are unsure about system operation, contact
your installing dealer.
• We recommend that you contact your local fire department and For more information and technical assistance:
request further information on fire safety and escape planning. If © 2000 Digital Security Controls Ltd.
available, have your local fire prevention officer conduct an in- Toronto, Canada
house fire safety inspection. 1-800-387-3630 • www.dscgrp.com
Printed in Canada 29003071 R002