NEMA WT 1-2018 Page 1

© 2017 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

A NEMA Fire, Life Safety, Security, and Emergency Communications White Paper WT 1-2018

Wireless Communications Technology for Fire and Life Safety Systems

Published by National Electrical Manufacturers Association 1300 North 17th Street, Suite 900 Rosslyn, Virginia 22209 www.nema.org © 2018 National Electrical Manufacturers Association. All rights, including translation into other languages, reserved under the Universal Copyright Convention, the Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works, and the International and Pan American copyright conventions.

NEMA WT 1-2018 Page 2

© 2018 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

NOTICE AND DISCLAIMER The information in this publication was considered technically sound by the consensus of persons engaged in the development and approval of the document at the time it was developed. Consensus does not necessarily mean that there is unanimous agreement among every person participating in the development of this document. NEMA standards and guideline publications, of which the document contained herein is one, are developed through a voluntary consensus standards development process. This process brings together volunteers and/or seeks out the views of persons who have an interest in the topic covered by this publication. While NEMA administers the process and establishes rules to promote fairness in the development of consensus, it does not write the document and it does not independently test, evaluate, or verify the accuracy or completeness of any information or the soundness of any judgments contained in its standards and guideline publications. NEMA disclaims liability for any personal injury, property, or other damages of any nature whatsoever, whether special, indirect, consequential, or compensatory, directly or indirectly resulting from the publication, use of, application, or reliance on this document. NEMA disclaims and makes no guaranty or warranty, expressed or implied, as to the accuracy or completeness of any information published herein, and disclaims and makes no warranty that the information in this document will fulfill any of your particular purposes or needs. NEMA does not undertake to guarantee the performance of any individual manufacturer or seller’s products or services by virtue of this standard or guide. In publishing and making this document available, NEMA is not undertaking to render professional or other services for or on behalf of any person or entity, nor is NEMA undertaking to perform any duty owed by any person or entity to someone else. Anyone using this document should rely on his or her own independent judgment or, as appropriate, seek the advice of a competent professional in determining the exercise of reasonable care in any given circumstances. Information and other standards on the topic covered by this publication may be available from other sources, which the user may wish to consult for additional views or information not covered by this publication. NEMA has no power, nor does it undertake to police or enforce compliance with the contents of this document. NEMA does not certify, test, or inspect products, designs, or installations for safety or health purposes. Any certification or other statement of compliance with any health or safety-related information in this document shall not be attributable to NEMA and is solely the responsibility of the certifier or maker of the statement.

NEMA WT 1-2018 Page 1

© 2018 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Section 1: Introduction and Purpose With the ever-changing advancements in communications, the use of wireless technology to transfer information without an electrical conductor is taking a larger position in today’s society. Since radio frequency modulation, light, and sound were introduced in the late 1800s to transmit information, wireless communication has been extremely significant moving forward in the modern world. This becomes apparent especially when considering the use of device and system connectivity to perform a limitless number of tasks, such as controlling and monitoring functions between multiple different platforms and users.

The purpose of this document is to give a brief overview of wireless technology and lead into a potential series of documents aimed at the specifics of various technologies, challenges, advantages, and regulatory requirements.

The term Internet of Things (IoT) refers to a network of objects, devices, or other “things” that use various hardware, software, sensors, and means of connectivity to collect and exchange data for a potentially infinite list of uses. One of the main functions is to integrate data between multiple devices to allow for increased efficiency, accuracy in a wide variety of tasks and functions, and remote access.

With the incorporation of wireless technology and the introduction of IoT, into the Fire, Life Safety, Security, and Emergency Communications section of the electronics industry, there is now easier communication between systems providing environmental, functional, and system data for use in trending and other data analysis. One example is the incorporation of sensors to record conditions in a building for fire investigations. In fire conditions, a series of actions can occur where sensors can unlock doors for egress, shut down HVAC units, pressurize egress paths for increased visibility, light exit routes, and monitor progress or conditions from remote locations.

One of the significant advantages of wireless communication over conventional wired systems is the ease of installation, significant cost savings and the ability to modify and expand a system, especially in existing or historical buildings. These advantages, as well as others, and some disadvantages of wireless communications will be discussed in further detail throughout this document.

There are many available wireless technology protocols available in today’s market that include WiFi, Proprietary RF, ZigBee, EnOcean, Z-wave, and Bluetooth. The sections below discuss some protocol uses in commercial and residential settings, advantages, disadvantages, associated regulations, and trends.

Section 2: Intended Audience

This white paper was developed to give a broad overview of some of the wireless technology currently available and how it impacts the life safety industry today, and perhaps in the future. It was designed to give insight to consumers, installation companies, fire service personnel, building code officials, end users, fire protection engineers, electrical engineers, and anyone interested in utilizing wireless technologies for life safety applications.

Section 3: Wireless Technologies

There are many different technologies and protocols available for users today, and it seems as if more are popping up every day, each with its advantage or personal niche in the market. Below are some of the more common ones available at the time this document was created.

NEMA WT 1-2018 Page 2

© 2018 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Digital Cellular Due to increased demand for mobile wireless communications, voice communications no longer use dedicated wired connections to pass voice communications. Instead, the voice conversation is converted into a stream of bits and packaged within data packets that conform to messaging protocols, packets are addressed to a destination point, delivered into the network, received by the destination point, and are converted back into an intelligible voice-grade message. The message exchange through this wireless data network is done through well-known defined protocols such as Global System for Mobile communications (GSM) or Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA). These protocols have been developed to operate in an optimal way for the intended application. Services are available for fixed or mobile applications, and devices are licensed to communicate over only one of the said protocols. Cellular technologies currently in use are 2G (second generation), 3G (third generation), and 4G (fourth generation). A 5G (fifth generation) is on the horizon and expected by the end of the decade. 2G networks were launched in the U.S. around 1987 along with short message service (SMS) texting as well as general packet radio service (GPRS) which first offered packetized data transmission. 2G coverage is diminishing rapidly across the country since AT&T announced that in early 2017 it would completely discontinue its 2G cellular networks. 3G networks were originally designed for voice calls and data transmission, and their coverage is still pretty good around the United States but varies by carriers. 3G networks appear to have some longevity since there was much investment made in this technology over time. No one knows specifically when 3G technology will be phased out by the carriers, but many experts believe this process will not begin until at least 2020. 4G networks were designed and launched around 2010 primarily for data transmission. They offer the fastest speeds available, and coverage continues to be expanded as companies invest in these networks. There are also different formats available such as long term evolution (LTE) which provides faster upload speeds than traditional 4G. Wireless Connection to the Internet WiFi, Bluetooth, Z-Wave, and ZigBee are technologies that use radio waves to transmit information across a network to a wireless access point or hub. The access point connects to a router that may provide a connection to the internet. Depending on the protocol the radios are running, they operate at various frequencies and unlicensed bands. Bluetooth operates at 2.4 GHz worldwide. WiFi operates at 2.4 GHz worldwide and 5.0 GHz in many countries. Z-Wave operates at 908.42 MHz in North America, at 868.42 MHz in Europe, and at other frequencies in other countries depending on their regulations. ZigBee operates at 784 MHz in China, 868 MHz in Europe and 915 MHz in the USA and Australia, and at 2.4 GHz worldwide. WiFi is primarily used for media streaming, browsing the web, and other data-heavy activities, it is a high-bandwidth network that’s power-intensive. Bluetooth wirelessly connects almost any device to other devices such as PDAs, cell phones, computers, tablets, printers, and fax machines. Bluetooth operates in the 2 to 4 GHz band and operates in short ranges of 10 meters (or 30 feet) to 100 meters (300 feet). Bluetooth is relatively secure because it uses frequency hopping and encryption to help ensure a secure wireless connection. It also has higher data bandwidth than ZigBee and Z-Wave (though lower than WiFi), allowing Bluetooth-enabled products to do more than simply flip a switch or report movement.

NEMA WT 1-2018 Page 3

© 2018 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

ZigBee and Z-Wave were developed to provide a relatively long range with lower power consumption. These technologies have very low bandwidth and power consumption, which make them ideal for monitoring and commanding simple devices like window and door motion sensors or smart lightbulbs. ZigBee or Z-Wave systems require a dedicated hub to connect to the internet, and their protocols are not directly compatible with many mainstream computing devices, like a smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Multiple devices can form a mesh network in which intermediate devices act as repeaters for devices out of the wireless hub’s range.

Section 4: Codes, Standards, and Regulations With the incorporation of wireless technology and IoT into the fire, life safety, security, and emergency communications sector of the electronics industry, installation codes continue to adapt. Most national installation codes such as the National Electrical Code®, building codes, and fire codes are updated on a three-year code development cycle. For that reason, it can take up to three years to include changes to an installation code and then it must be adopted into law by state and/or local jurisdictions. This legislative process differs widely among each state and is complex. Product-specific requirements are contained in product safety and performance standards by UL and NEMA, for example. There are thousands of technical experts contributing to the national codes and standards development process—which is considered the strength of the American National Standards system. But it also means that change can be slow. It is challenging for codes and standards to keep pace with new wireless technologies and other innovative products and systems. Several National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards already address wireless communications. For example, NFPA 1221 Standard for the Installation, Maintenance, and Use of Emergency Services Communications Systems covers the installation, performance, operation, and maintenance of public emergency services communications systems and facilities. Requirements for two-way radio communications enhancement systems were moved from NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code to NFPA 1221 during the 2016 code cycle. Building owners may be required to provide emergency services radio repeaters signal boosters to ensure first responders can communicate during an emergency. FirstNet, the first responder network authority, is an independent body in the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA), which is part of the U.S. Department of Commerce. FirstNet has identified improved in-building communications as a critical need for first responders and a required component of the nationwide public safety broadband network that FirstNet is deploying. Additionally, NFPA 72 National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code addresses low-power wireless and long-range wireless devices. These could be smoke alarms or system devices. (Note the 2019 edition of the NFPA 72 will formally incorporate the requirements of NFPA 720 Standard for Installation of Carbon Monoxide (CO) Detection and Warning Equipment and NFPA 720 will be discontinued). NFPA 731 Standard for the Installation of Electronic Premises Security Systems is a standard that covers the application, location, installation, performance, testing, and maintenance of electronic premises security systems and their components. Section 4.7 is dedicated to the requirements for wireless systems. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) addresses the use of wireless devices and systems in the following standards used for fire alarm and Mass Notification Systems: UL 864 Standard for Control Units and Accessories for Fire Alarm Systems and UL 2572 Standard for Mass Notification System. To assist manufacturer’s with the growth of IoT devices and systems, UL has developed a Cybersecurity Assurance Program (Link: UL CAP) to help ensure they are using standardized criteria to address vulnerabilities and weaknesses in their products.

NEMA WT 1-2018 Page 4

© 2018 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

Cybersecurity is high priority concern at NEMA. In efforts to assist all member companies, including those in Fire and Life Safety, NEMA has a strategic initiative to address product security issues. In North America, three government agencies regulate radio frequency wireless communications. In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) governs wireless requirements. This information can be found in Title 47 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). In Mexico, Institudo Federal de Telecomunicacions (Mexican Federal Telecommunications Institute) regulates communications, and in Canada, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada regulates wireless requirements (Links: FCC IFT Industry Canada). Although governed by three different agencies, the regulations for using the unlicensed industrial, scientific, and medical (ISM) radio bands at 900 MHz, 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz are the same. Section 5: Off Premise The communications industry has changed more in the last ten years than the previous one hundred, and the rate of technological development is expected to continue escalating over the next ten years as well. This change has impacted the transmission of alarm, trouble and supervisory signals from the building alarm system (protected premises) to the remote supervising station. One technology used since the late 1980’s used private copper telephone lines with power originating at the telephone central office. This technology is now obsolete because the telephone companies no longer supply or maintain these lines. Plain old telephone system (POTS) lines used with digital alarm communicator transmitters (DACTs) to send signals to the supervising station are also rapidly disappearing. A new section was added to the 1999 edition of NFPA 72 titled Other Transmission Technologies in recognition of the technological evolution and the telephone companies transitioning from copper based technology to digital cellular Internet Protocol (IP) communications. The section is based on a number of common performance based design requirements and features that any new transmission technology must meet to be eligible for listing. If a product based on new technology conforms to these performance requirements, it could be taken directly to a Nationally Recognized Test Laboratory (NRTL) for listing and then made available in the market in a timely manner. For a complete explanation of the off premises, communications technologies refer to NEMA publication SB 3-2017 The Changing Communications within Fire Alarm System Reporting.

Section 6: Connected Home versus Connected Building Today, more than ever, we live in a connected world. To a great extent, wireless technology has made this possible. The benefits of wireless systems include ease of retrofit. There may be cases where it is impossible to run new wire or conduit, and any existing wiring has deteriorated or is otherwise unsuitable for use. In these instances, a wireless system can provide increased coverage with less impact on the existing structure. Wireless systems can carry the same detailed information provided by many intelligent systems. Moreover, wireless devices found in the connected home allow flexible access to information, for example via smart phone apps. Needs are different in a connected home versus a connected building (office, hotel, factory, hospital, etc.). One thing common to the connected home and building is “smart” technology that is computer or algorithm based. Smartphones are mobile personal computers, and with our smartphones, many of us can keep in touch not only with people but with other IoT connected devices. We can see through the cameras we have

NEMA WT 1-2018 Page 5

© 2018 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

placed in our homes, adjust the temperature, and see that our smoke and CO alarms are working. Using computers and smartphones, WiFi, Bluetooth, cellular, and other wireless connections, users can be in control of many functions, whether they are at the “connected home” or away. Most of these functions have been distilled into apps, which use complex computer algorithms to implement an easy to use human machine interface (HMI). The situation is different with connected buildings. These commercial structures incorporate a series of complex systems (HVAC, access control, fire security, lighting, etc.) connected both with and without wires. Wireless systems typically consist of devices that are connected to wireless access points and routers. These access points and routers may be part of a hybrid local area network (LAN) which incorporates wired Ethernet connected devices and includes system processors and workstation computers. Overall building systems control remains in the hands of a building owner or manager, while individual tenants may have control over systems or portions of systems serving the rented space. Motivated by safety, efficiency, convenience, and cost control, building owners and managers have connected more and more systems, allowing buildings to be monitored and run from a single point that can be on or off-premise. Electricity and smart grid applications, heating and air conditioning, lighting, security and access control, closed circuit television, even point of sale systems can be part of the network serving a building. Until recently, fire safety and emergency communications systems have been excluded from sharing the connected building systems LAN. That is now changing. In the smart building, the fire safety system can be networked to other building management systems to enable automatic hazard mitigating actions. Fire safety system devices and control units may be connected via wireless methods. NFPA 72 permits Class N wireless or Class N Ethernet connections and has addressed requirements for wireless alarm systems for several code revision cycles. It should be noted that fire safety and emergency communications systems are not currently permitted to be dependent on networks that can be accessed by the public. Section 7: Challenges Whether you are designing wireless systems for residences, healthcare facilities, multi-tenant residential buildings/hotels, K-12 schools, colleges, universities, retail locations, hospitality venues, entertainment venues, parking facilities, government, security, mission-critical buildings, parking structures, transportation facilities (airport, train, bus, etc.), a big challenge in any of these locations is the design and installation of the distributed antenna system (DAS). Without ample coverage, a system will not operate optimally and may not work at all in some parts of the building. There must be enough antenna coverage to enable connectivity for all the potential users of the system anywhere that they might be located in the building. In addition to the DAS, other challenges that designers of wireless systems encounter include, but are not limited to, the following:

a. Wireless signal propagation degradation due to construction of and content of the building 1. Metal (e.g., aluminum, steel pan floors, wire mesh, electrical raceways, wire bundles,

etc.) 2. Concrete (e.g., used in walls, floors, ceilings, stairwells, etc. 3. Filing cabinets, cubicles) 4. Some glass compositions 5. Moving objects (e.g., elevator cars, trucks, forklifts, people, etc.)

b. Open areas/fields between buildings c. Competing frequencies/clashing of signals with the same frequencies d. Cybersecurity/system vulnerability

NEMA WT 1-2018 Page 6

© 2018 National Electrical Manufacturers Association

e. Data privacy f. Architecturally significant areas g. Grounding and shielding h. Radiated energy limits i. Public safety j. Secondary backup power IoT requirements k. Survivability l. Redundancy m. Reliability (continuous, uninterrupted LAN service)

In addition to these challenges, users expect speedy data delivery. This is important in schools, colleges, and universities where many students no longer buy textbooks. Instead they are issued a laptop to sue for their homework assignments where they download information and upload their completed work. The building management systems, fire safety, and emergency communication systems do not expect; rather, they require speedy data delivery to function properly. The wireless system designer must guarantee data delivery within the required latency limits. Life-critical facilities such as hospitals and other healthcare facilities are unlike any other buildings because they function 24/7 365 days a year, and are especially needed during disasters where they become the hub for the injured. It is imperative that the installed LAN infrastructure be able to support immediate and future needs with minimal disruption or the need for re-cabling the facility. The systems in these facilities need to be robust and work properly in an environment that has a multitude of challenges due to electromagnetic, and radio frequency noise (EMI/RFI), power delivery requirements, access restrictions, and increasing data speeds as the equipment used in life-critical facilities evolves. Wired and wireless fire, life safety, and emergency communications systems present particular challenges. These systems are required to operate continuously without interruption before, during, and after an event. Continuous operation can present challenges in the case of routine software updates and computer system maintenance for example. Additionally, continued functioning of the overall system is required while portions of the system are impacted by the extreme conditions present in a fire. These requirements are not always considered in other building system designs. As technology continues to evolve and more systems converge on the network, it is important to consider including data from wireless personal and body area networks (PANs and BANs). Data from these devices are delivered using Bluetooth, Ultra-Wideband (UWB), Zigbee and other wireless protocols. Section 8: Conclusion Technology is continually evolving, and we can only speculate what will be next on the horizon. However, as building systems communications continue to converge, we know wireless networks will be the backbone of these technologies. Whenever you are designing a network, always consult your local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) early in the project to get insight and support. §