What function does the alarm control panel have in a zoned non-coded alarm?

The alarm control panel in a zoned non-coded alarm system is designed to show the specific zone in which an alarm has been activated. This means that when a device, such as a smoke detector or pull station, triggers the alarm, the panel will indicate which zone is affected. This function is critical for firefighters and emergency responders as it allows them to quickly identify the area of concern within a building, enhancing their response effectiveness and efficiency.

The control panel does not provide the exact location of the activated device within the zone—that level of detail is characteristic of a coded alarm system. Additionally, while such systems can provide immediate alarms, the purpose of a zoned non-coded system is to segment the building into zones for better management, rather than indicating multiple zones simultaneously in the case of an alarm event. Understanding the distinction between these functionalities is essential for effective fire response operations.