Automatically Testing Sensors

Seismic sensors are tested either periodically or after the system is set using the keypad.

Periodic Automatic Testing

Periodic automatic tests are performed on all seismic zones for which automatic tests are enabled.

Automatic tests are randomized within the configured test period and are done independently for each area.

All seismic zones in the same area (for which automatic tests are enabled) are tested simultaneously.

The Seismic Test Interval configuration option in the System Timers menu (see Timers) determines the average test period for seismic sensors automatic tests. The default value is 168 hours (7 days) and the allowed values are in the range 12–240 hours.

The test time is random within the specified range +/- 15%. For example, if a test is scheduled every 24 hours, a test may be performed between 20.4 and 27.6 hours after the last test.

A seismic test is performed after a reboot if automatic tests are enabled. If the panel was in Full Engineer mode before reboot, then the test is performed only after the panel is out of Full Engineer mode after a reboot.

If a seismic test fails, a Trouble event is reported (SIA code “BT”). There is also a corresponding Restoration event (SIA code “BJ”).

Automatic Test on Setting

The option Seismic Test on Set is configurable in the Options menu (see Options). If enabled, all seismic zones in all areas that are to be set are tested before the usual setting sequence. This applies to keypad operation only.

While the test is being performed, ‘SEISMIC AUTOTEST’ is displayed on the keypad. If the seismic test succeeds, the setting proceeds as normal.

If all areas or an area group or a single area are selected to be set, and a seismic test fails, then ‘SEISMIC FAIL’ will be displayed. Pressing Return displays a list of the failed zones which can be scrolled through using the up and down arrow keys.

Depending on the Inhibit settings for the failed seismic zones and your user profile, the following can occur:

  • If all of the seismic zones that failed the test have the Inhibit attribute set, and your user profile user is configured with the Inhibit right:

  1. Press Return on any of the failed zones.

    The message “FORCE SET ALL?” is displayed.

  2. Press Return again to inhibit all seismic zones that failed the test. (Alternatively, go back to the previous menu.)

    Setting proceeds as normal.

  • If some of the seismic zones that failed the test do not have the Inhibit attribute set or your user profile user does not have the Inhibit right, press Return.

    The message ‘FAIL TO SET’ will be displayed and no areas will be set.

There is no automatic seismic test for areas that are auto-set for any reason (for example, areas activated by a calendar or trigger). Likewise there is no automatic seismic test when the system is set with SPC Com or the browser. However, there is an automatic seismic test when a virtual keypad is used with SPC Com.

No event is reported if seismic testing on set fails.

The periodic automatic system test timer restarts after a test is performed after setting.