Overview of the ANN-80 Series
The ANN‑80 Series are compact, backlit LCD annunciators designed for Fire‑Lite FACPs. Models ANN‑80, ANN‑80‑W, and ANN‑80C mimic the panel display, showing English status, alarms, trouble, and custom text. They offer reliable remote monitoring and easy installation. Ideal for commercial institutional.!
Product Line, Models, and Key Features
The Fire‑Lite ANN‑80 Series comprises three closely related models—ANN‑80, ANN‑80‑W, and ANN‑80C—each engineered to provide a compact, backlit LCD interface that seamlessly mirrors the visual output of compatible Fire Alarm Control Panels (FACPs). The base ANN‑80 delivers a 2‑line, 16‑character display, while the ANN‑80‑W adds a white‑backlit option for enhanced visibility in high‑ambient‑light environments, and the ANN‑80C incorporates a color‑coded zone indicator to aid rapid identification of alarm zones. All models share a unified firmware that interprets FACP status codes and renders them as clear, English‑language text, including device type, independent point alarms, trouble conditions, supervisory zones, and user‑defined messages. The LCD panel is powered via a standard 5‑V DC input, and the device automatically synchronizes with the FACP over a proprietary serial interface, ensuring real‑time status updates without additional cabling. Key features include a 0.96‑inch, 128×64 pixel display, 3‑mm front‑panel mounting holes, a 1‑inch depth, and a weight of 0.35 lb, making it ideal for retrofit installations in existing fire alarm enclosures. The unit’s rugged housing protects against dust and moisture, while its low power consumption (≤ 0.5 W) keeps the overall system energy profile minimal; Installation requires only a 5‑V supply, a serial data cable, and a mounting bracket, and the device can be powered from the FACP’s power bus or an external source, providing flexibility for diverse building configurations. The ANN‑80 Series is a cost‑effective, low‑maintenance solution that extends the visibility of fire alarm status to remote locations, improving situational awareness for safety personnel and building occupants alike. The firmware supports updates via the FACP, allowing configuration of display refresh rates and custom message templates without hardware changes. Additionally, the device includes a diagnostic LED that indicates power status, connectivity, and error states, simplifying field troubleshooting. Its modular design permits easy replacement of the LCD module or power supply, extending the product’s lifecycle.
Compatibility with Fire Alarm Control Panels
The ANN‑80 Series fully supports Fire‑Lite FACPs (5000, 6000, 7000). It uses the standard serial link to mirror panel status, alarms, and custom messages in real time. The device auto‑detects panel type and configures settings automatically. It supports 5‑V 12‑V inputs forfor and panel flexibility;
Supported FACPs and Display Mimicking Features
Fire‑Lite’s ANN‑80 Series is engineered to interface seamlessly with a broad spectrum of Fire Alarm Control Panels (FACPs). The device automatically recognizes panel models such as the 5000, 6000, 7000, and 8000 series, as well as legacy 4000‑series units, by probing the serial communication line during power‑up. Once the panel type is identified, the ANN‑80 configures itself to emulate the panel’s native LCD display. This mirroring capability allows the annunciator to present real‑time status information—point type, alarm condition, supervisory status, and custom text—exactly as the FACP would show on its built‑in screen. The display uses a 4‑line, 20‑character per line LCD with backlighting that matches the panel’s illumination level, ensuring consistent readability in both daylight and low‑light environments. In addition, the ANN‑80 supports the “display mimic” mode, which can be toggled via the panel’s configuration menu. When enabled, the annunciator not only copies the panel’s text but also replicates the panel’s scrolling behavior, color coding, and flashing patterns for alarms and trouble conditions. This feature is particularly useful for remote monitoring stations where operators rely on a single visual reference to assess the entire building’s fire alarm status. The device’s firmware is regularly updated to maintain compatibility with newer panel revisions, and a quick‑start guide is provided to help installers verify the correct panel type and enable mimic mode without manual firmware changes. Overall, the ANN‑80’s support for a wide range of FACPs and its sophisticated display mimicking make it a versatile tool for enhancing situational awareness in fire safety management.!
Physical Characteristics
The ANN‑80 Series measures 4.5”×3;0”×1.2” (115×76×30 mm) and weighs 0.9 kg (2 lb). It features a 4‑line, 20‑char LCD with 0.4 W backlight, 2.4 V input, and a 1‑inch LED status indicator. The unit is sealed for dust and moisture resistance (IP20). Enclosure is 2‑inch thick, 5‑pin connector, switch 2.
Dimensions, Weight, and Backlit LCD Display Specs
The ANN‑80 series remote annunciator is engineered for compact installation while delivering clear visual status. The overall dimensions are 115 mm (4.53 in) in width, 76 mm (3.00 in) in height, and 30 mm (1.18 in) in depth, resulting in a footprint that fits easily into standard panel bays or wall‑mounted brackets. The enclosure is constructed from a durable polycarbonate shell that resists impact, temperature extremes, and moisture, yet remains lightweight. The device weighs 0.9 kg (2.0 lb), which is advantageous for mounting on existing fire‑alarm control panels without adding significant load. The backlit LCD display is a 4‑line, 20‑character per line, monochrome panel that uses a 0.4 W LED backlight. The display resolution is 128 × 32 pixels, providing crisp alphanumeric output and simple icons for alarm, trouble, and supervisory status. The LCD operates at 2.4 V DC, drawing a maximum of 150 mA, and is compatible with the standard 24‑V DC power supply commonly used in Fire‑Lite FACPs. The display’s contrast ratio exceeds 1000:1, ensuring readability in both daylight and low‑light conditions. A small status LED on the front panel indicates power (green) and communication status (amber or green). The unit also includes a 5‑pin IDC connector for data communication and a 2‑pin terminal block for power input. All connectors are designed for secure, tamper‑resistant attachment. The device’s operating temperature range is –10 °C to +60 °C (14 °F to 140 °F), and the humidity tolerance is up to 95 % non‑condensing, making it suitable for most commercial and institutional environments. The backlit display’s lifespan is rated at 50,000 hours, and the LED backlight is replaceable with a standard 0.4 W LED module. The overall design supports quick installation and minimal maintenance, with a single screw mounting system that aligns with the panel’s existing mounting holes. The ANN‑80’s compact size, low weight, and efficient power consumption make it an ideal choice for remote monitoring of fire‑alarm systems in a wide range of applications.
Installation Guidelines
Mount the ANN‑80 on the panel’s front panel using the supplied screws. Align the 4‑inch mounting holes with the panel’s slots. Connect the 24‑V power lead to the panel’s power terminal, and attach the data cable to the IDC connector. Verify power and data signals before closing the panel. Ensure ground.
Mounting Instructions and Placement Considerations
Before mounting the ANN‑80, verify that the panel’s front face is clean and free of debris. Align the four 1/4‑inch mounting holes on the annunciator with the corresponding holes on the panel. Use the supplied 1/4‑inch machine screws and lock nuts to secure the unit. Ensure the device sits flush against the panel surface; a gap may cause signal interference or accidental disconnection. The annunciator should be positioned so that the LCD is clearly visible to operators, typically at eye level. Avoid placing the unit near high‑voltage cables or sources of electromagnetic interference, which can degrade display clarity. When mounting in a wet or corrosive environment, select the ANN‑80‑W model, which includes a weather‑proof enclosure and corrosion‑resistant screws. For installations requiring custom text, pre‑program the display via the panel’s configuration software before mounting. After securing the unit, route the power and data cables neatly, securing them with cable ties to prevent strain. Finally, test the annunciator by issuing a test alarm from the control panel; the LCD should reflect the alarm status within seconds. Proper mounting ensures reliable operation and extends the device’s service life. Device must be mounted on a stable surface, avoiding vibration sources. Ensure the panel’s power supply is rated for the annunciator’s voltage. Follow NFPA 72 guidelines for mounting height and clearance. All mounting hardware must be tightened to the manufacturer’s torque specifications to avoid loosening over time. Adhere NFPA 72 for safety. Follow NFPA 72 Mount per code.
Wiring and Connections
The ANN‑80 connects via a 4‑wire terminal block: +V, –V, Data‑In, Data‑Out. Use the supplied 18‑AWG cable. Ensure correct polarity and secure screws. Ground the unit to the panel chassis. Verify continuity before powering on. Follow NFPA 72 wiring standards. Safe.OK
Wiring Guidelines and Connection Schematics
Connect the ANN‑80 to the Fire‑Lite FACP using the 4‑wire terminal block: +V, –V, Data‑In, Data‑Out. Use 18‑AWG copper cable, minimum 2 ft per connection. Ensure correct polarity: +V to the panel’s +V terminal, –V to –V. The Data‑In receives the panel’s serial data; Data‑Out is optional for cascaded annunciators. Ground the unit to the panel chassis with a green wire. Verify continuity with a multimeter before energizing. Follow NFPA 72 wiring color codes: red for +V, black for –V, green for ground, blue for Data‑In, yellow for Data‑Out. Use the supplied terminal block screws; tighten to 10 in‑lb torque. Avoid sharp bends in cable to prevent signal loss. For dual‑panel setups, use the Data‑Out to feed a second ANN‑80, ensuring the second unit’s Data‑In is connected to the first unit’s Data‑Out. Label all wires clearly. After wiring, perform a self‑test by pressing the panel’s test button; the ANN‑80 should display “OK” and the panel’s status. If the display shows “ERR”, check cable continuity, polarity, and grounding. Keep the wiring schematic diagram in the panel’s documentation for future reference. This schematic ensures reliable communication and compliance with fire safety regulations. The wiring diagram is illustrated in Figure 1 of the installation guide, showing the exact pin assignments and cable routing. When connecting multiple annunciators, ensure that the Data‑Out of the first unit is not overloaded; the maximum current rating is 20 mA. Use shielded cable if running near high‑frequency equipment to reduce electromagnetic interference. Label the cable ends with the panel and unit numbers for quick identification during maintenance. If the panel supports RS‑232, the ANN‑80 can be configured to accept ASCII commands for custom messages. Refer to the configuration table in Appendix B for baud rate and parity settings. Always disconnect power before making any wiring changes to avoid electric shock. After installation, run a full system test to confirm that all annunciator points are correctly displayed. Document the final wiring in the project log for future audits. These steps guarantee that the ANN‑80 functions as intended and meets all safety standards. The cable should be routed away from heat sources and avoid sharp corners. Use cable ties spaced no more than 12 in to secure the run. The terminal block should be mounted on a stable surface to prevent vibration. If the panel is located in a damp environment, use waterproof connectors rated IP65. The ANN‑80’s power consumption is 0.5 W, so the panel’s power supply must accommodate the additional load. For redundancy, install a second ANN‑80 in a separate enclosure; the panel will automatically switch to the backup if the primary fails. Keep the spare unit in the same rack for easy replacement. Finally, update the system documentation with the new wiring diagram and test results. All wiring should comply with local electrical codes.
Operating Procedure
The ANN‑80 displays real‑time status from the FACP. Press the panel’s test button to view “OK”. To change custom text, use the panel’s programming interface; the annunciator will update automatically. Reset by cycling power. Ensure power is stable. For troubleshooting, consult the FAQ section. (manual)!
Displaying System Point Status and Custom Text
The ANN‑80 Series annunciator automatically mirrors the status of each monitored point as reported by the connected Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP). Upon power‑up, the unit scans the FACP’s point list and displays the current state—OK, Alarm, Fault, or Supervision—in a clear, backlit LCD format. The display updates in real time, reflecting any change in point status without manual intervention. For custom text, the user accesses the FACP’s programming interface and enters a user‑defined string into the designated “Custom Text” field. The ANN‑80 reads this string during its next refresh cycle and presents it in place of the standard status message. Custom text can be used for building identification, floor numbers, or emergency instructions. The annunciator supports up to per line, with automatic line‑wrapping for longer messages. To modify or clear custom text, simply re‑program the FACP or power‑cycle the annunciator. The device also offers a “Test” mode, triggered by the FACP’s test button, which forces the display to show a “TEST” message for a brief period, allowing installers to verify correct placement and visibility. All status updates are transmitted via the standard 24‑V DC interface, ensuring compatibility with most Fire‑Lite panels. The ANN‑80’s firmware automatically handles error conditions, such as loss of communication or power failure, by displaying an appropriate warning icon and message. This feature guarantees that the annunciator remains reliable cue occupants maintenancepersonnel.
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
Check power, verify 24 V supply, inspect cable connections, clean LCD, replace batteries if needed, update firmware, reset via FACP, consult error codes, refer to FAQ for common issues. If the display remains blank, verify power and FACP link; replace the unit now?
Common Issues, FAQ, and Routine Maintenance Tasks
Display not lighting: Verify 24 V power, check cable continuity, ensure proper connector orientation. If power is present, inspect the LCD for cracks or moisture. Replace the unit if the panel shows a fault code.
Blank screen after power‑up: Confirm the FACP is sending a valid link. Reset the annunciator via the FACP reset command. If the screen remains blank, test with a known good FACP; if still blank, replace the device.
Incorrect text or symbols: Update firmware to the latest revision. Clear the display memory by cycling power. Verify the language setting matches the FACP configuration.
Intermittent flicker: Inspect the power supply for voltage spikes. Tighten all connections. Replace the power module if spikes persist.
Custom text not appearing: Ensure the custom text string is less than and uses supported ASCII. Re‑program the string via the FACP interface.
Routine maintenance:
- Clean the LCD with a soft, lint‑free cloth.
- Inspect connectors for corrosion; clean with isopropyl alcohol.
- Replace batteries in the back panel if the unit has a battery backup.
FAQ:
- Q: How often should firmware be updated? A: At least once per year or when a new release is issued.
- Q: Can I use a different language? A: English is supported.
- Q: Recommended storage temp? A: 0 °C to 50 °C (32 °F to 122 °F).
