The installation requirements for Two Way Radio Communication Enhancement Systems (TWRCES) and Auxiliary Radio Communication Systems (ARCS) are consistently changing as high-rise buildings continue to modernize.

TowerIQ’s New York City Channel Manager Theo Stathakis supports Service Partners conducting radio and installation checks for many of the high-rise buildings here in New York City. With such responsibility comes many isolated questions regarding installation components and practices from engineers, property managers, and the FDNY alike.

Does the ARC and fire alarm system interface at all? Do we report to the fire alarm or does it report to us?

The ARC and fire alarm systems do not interface as they are two separate systems. An ARCs works as a standalone system but is filed at the same time as a fire alarm system in New York City. When filing occurs, job numbers will need to be included on both the fire alarm and ARCs filing package.

How do we achieve two-hour rating?

There are three ways to achieve a two-hour rating and all options have individual costs and benefits.

3M fire wrapping. The most expensive option, but allows you to implement whenever suits the property or building managers during construction.

Where do I need to install the heading equipment or RAU?

A common misconception is that the Radio Amplification Unit (RAU) as a lone product requires a two-hour rated room. Only the cabling that leaves and enters the RAU requires a two-hour rated room, causing TowerIQ to usually recommend a two-hour rated room for simplicity. Any two-hour rated room is acceptable, as long as it is not in a known flood zone or room.

A TowerIQ Engineer Sidenote: When picking a room, engineers should account for two-hour rating for both the antenna cable and the SLC cabling going towards the Dedicated Radio Console.

Do I need to run my cable in piping?

Yes! The piping can include conduit, EMT, and ABC. Piping is always required for mechanical protection where the building is accessible to the public and up to 8 feet high from the floor.

What are my building’s requirements to maintain the system?

Your building itself will never use the ARC system - only first responders in the event of an emergency and contractors upon installation and testing will. The FCC agreement requires that the building maintain the system via daily log and yearly calibration. TowerIQ's system will display any faults or inconsistencies on the LCD screen of the Dedicated Radio Console. The property owner is not only responsible to the City of New York, but also to the Federal Communications Commission to maintain the system in good working order.

TowerIQ provides complimentary drawings for architects and engineers needing a life-safety wireless network. Contact us and one of our representatives will be in touch.


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