Installation guide

VAR4 / VAR12 / VAR20 - Product Description
• Failsafe Operation
If the VAR Router detects processor failure or mis-operation, a hardware bypass mode comes into
operation for the Fire Microphones. When this happens the Router provides an ALL-CALL-ONLY signal
back to the Fire Microphone, which illuminates the ALL-CALL-ONLY LED on the Fire Microphone panel.
When the PTT is pressed, an All-Call analogue bypass path is driven which bypasses all processor
controlled elements.
The hardwired SPEAK-NOW LED is illuminated on the Fire Microphone once the route is made.
If the RS485 communications link fails but the VAR Router processor is running correctly the ALL-CALL-
ONLY LED is illuminated and operation reverts to all-call. However in this case the audio is still routed
through the DSP.
3.2.1.3 Fire Microphone (ALL-CALL) Mode
Fire Microphone operation is configurable for inputs 1 & 2 only. Any ASL All-Call Fire Microphone may then
be connected. For example: FMS1, EAP01.
All-Call Microphones do not need a serial interface. However, the serial interface may be installed if a busy
LED function is required. These microphones have a hardwired PTT switch interfaced to the VAR Router,
this switch is provided with resistors to allow the cabling to be monitored for faults by the VAR Router.
A hardwired SPEAK-NOW LED is also provided. Operation is as described below:
• Normal Operation
In normal operation, All-Call is initiated by the controller monitoring the state of the contact and routing
audio via the DSP to all outputs.
A SPEAK-NOW LED is provided on the Fire Microphone, and is driven by the processor once the route
is made (and chime has sounded).
• Failsafe Operation
If the VAR Router detects processor failure or mis-operation, a hardware bypass mode comes into
operation for the Fire Microphones.
When the PTT is pressed, an All-Call analogue bypass path is driven which bypasses all processor
controlled elements.
The SPEAK-NOW LED is illuminated on the Fire Microphone once the route is made.
3.2.1.4 Single Button Microphone Mode
It is possible to set any of the Mic/Line inputs for Single Button Microphone Operation. For example: SAP01.
A Single Button Microphone provides indicators and PTT button. The PTT button can be programmed for
zone selection at the VAR Router to correspond to certain outputs or groups of outputs.
The button and LED data is communicated between the Microphone and VAR Router by means of a
dedicated RS485 data link provided on each Mic/Line input.
3.2.1.5 Miscellaneous Input Mode
It is possible to set any of the Mic/Line inputs as Miscellaneous Input Mode. When configured for this mode
of operation, the serial communication interface is disabled and other type of audio input may be connected,
e.g. PC/DVA audio, Long Line PA (LLPA) audio, or an additional background music input. The audio may be
routed by the Permanent Route or Latent Contact Route mechanisms; described respectively in Sections
“3.8 Permanent Routes” and “3.7.3.1 Routing”.
Issue: 03 complete, approved
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