What is the barrier requirement between power-limited fire alarm circuits and non-power-limited circuits?

The requirement for a specific barrier distance between power-limited fire alarm circuits and non-power-limited circuits is vital for ensuring safety and functionality in alarm systems. A 2-inch barrier is mandated to prevent potential interference between the two types of circuits, which could lead to malfunctioning of the fire alarm system or false alarms.

This separation helps to ensure that the power-limited circuits, which are designed to operate under specific conditions and typically have lower voltages, do not have their integrity compromised by higher voltage or more variable non-power-limited circuits. The 2-inch distance is a standard precaution to maintain the operational integrity and safety required in fire alarm systems, adhering to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines and the National Electrical Code (NEC) standards.

Choosing a distance that does not meet this requirement could result in inadequate protection against electrical interference, thus compromising the effectiveness of the fire alarm system.