WaveWare API-8 Alarm Monitoring - Manual (Page 12)

RS232 Strings that are in excess of the number of characters that are allowed by the paging system are
truncated into messages, which are no longer than the maximum number of characters allowed per
message. The number of characters per message is user programmable to match the allowable character
limitation imposed by the paging carrier or paging system manager. When the text string generated by
the host system is longer than the paging system character limitation, the entire string is paged in
consecutive transmissions. Messages are processed and delivered to the paging system on a first in first
out basis. API-8/232 will buffer up to 100 separate 80 character messages to be paged in sequence.
Event Header
A user defined header of up to 20 characters can be assigned at the beginning of each message string
that is to be paged. This will identify the source of any incoming message. This feature can be
employed where multiple units are installed at a site to capture events from more than one system and/or
facility.
Programming
Programming is accomplished via a PC running Windows 95/NT compatible Paging Interface
Programming Software. A programming kit consisting of Paging Interface Programming Software (PIP)
and a programming cable is included with all API-8/232 units.
Paging System Compatibility
API-8/232 is compatible with private (in-house) paging systems that utilize industry standard TAP
(PET) protocols. API-8/232 delivers messages via direct RS232 connection to an in-house paging
system, or will deliver messages to a remotely located in-house paging system or to a wide area (RCC)
paging system via remote telephone dial in (through a private or public telephone switch). API-8/232 is
compatible with in-house or wide area paging systems and Short Messaging Services available through
Digital PCS Network providers that utilize TAP protocols.
Host System Compatibility
API-8/232 will interface with most alarm systems, monitoring devices and enunciator panels to provide
enhanced functionality without replacing or upgrading existing systems or as a valuable addition to any
new system sale. Any system, which can provide contact outputs or standard RS232 ASCII event
strings, can be monitored using the interface.
Phone Line Requirements
Api-8/232 requires a single line telephone line/extension in order to dial a paging terminal. API-8/232 can
share a telephone line with another piece of equipment or one that is used for another purpose (i.e. fax line).
To ensure the unit will seize a shared line that is in use, it must be the first device on the phone line. If the
API-8/232 is down stream of another device (security panel or fire alarm panel) it will sense when the up-
stream equipment is utilizing the shared phone line and will not attempt to use the line until 'ON HOOK'
voltage is restored.
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CHAPTER 3
INSTALLATION