The portal device is a fully self contained unit comprising of the portal assembly, power transformer and cabinet. Input power for the portal will be 110-120VAC, 50-60Hz. The portal device is listed to PAZX (U.L. 916) and PAZX7 (ULC22.2 No. 205-M19)

The 4190-9008 BACpac™ Portal requires 115VAC, 50/60Hz power. The Portal does not have battery standby, therefore, if AC power is lost, the Portal ceases to operate. Third party interfaces are typically applied for read only, supplemental data reporting. Because most third party connections are to non-fire alarm listed networks, battery standby is not important. Typically, if a UPS is required to maintain operation with a power failure, then the same UPS system used to maintain power to the local area network modules most likely can be used for the Portal.

Simplex is the first Fire Alarm Systems manufacturer in North America to offer BACnet connectivity products. As an active participant in the BACnet standards committee activity, Simplex is recognized as the Fire Alarm systems leader in this effort. No other fire alarm manufacturer in the United States provides a BACnet compatible interface to their fire alarm system panels.

HVAC and Building Controls Suppliers have for years advertised interconnectivity capabilities with other equipment suppliers. The Simplex BACpac™ Portal now provides an open communication standard for third party connections to fire alarm systems. Imagine, with BACnet, an end user is no longer restricted by the proprietary network offering of the Building Controls Supplier.

Suppliers may offer products that "enable equipment of multiple manufacturers, different generations and disparate technologies to operate on the same network". Although these claims may be difficult to confirm, specification guides can be implemented to insure the end user receives the desired performance.

In the case of BACnet interfaces, the specification should be written to clearly define the interface to an existing 4020, 4100, or 4120 network. It is also important to note that Simplex has tested the BACpac™ Portal at NIST in Washington DC to verify BACnet compliance. Until testing agencies establish listing processes, it is best to require the manufacturer to supply test reports on BACnet device compliance.

Some recommended statements for the Architect/Engineering Specification to address BACnet capabilities:

Furnish a network compliant to the ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 135-1995, BACnet. Provide all necessary BACnet-compliant hardware and software to meet the system's functional specifications. Provide Protocol Implementation Conformance Statement (PICS) for every Bacnet Device in the system, including unitary controllers. All Device hardware is to comply with BACnet.

All BACnet device hardware shall be Listed Underwriters Laboratory for Open Energy Management Equipment (PAZX) under the UL Standard for Safety 916 in both the US and Canada, with integral labels showing rating.

All hardware shall be in compliance with FCC Part 15, Subpart J, Class A.

The BACnet Device shall be tested by an objective third party for compliance to the BACnet Standard

The latest edition of the following standards and codes in effect and amended as of supplier's proposal date, and any applicable subsections thereof, shall govern design and selection of equipment and material supplied:

1. American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE) ANSI/ASHRAE Standard 135-1995, BACnet
2. UL 916 Underwriters Laboratories Standard for Energy Management Equipment. Canada and the US.
3. National Electrical Code (NFPA 70).
4. FCC Part 15, Subpart J
5. EMC Directive 89/336/EEC