Installation Manual

Versus Technology, Inc.
DT10000-A0001 5 Revision 8 December 1998
2. SYSTEM HARDWARE DESCRIPTION
This section contains a description of the system, which will aid in the understanding of the methods required
for proper installation.
2.1 General
The system is a unique, reliable, flexible platform for locating personnel and equipment, in addition to relaying
event and control information throughout a building. The system transfers information using battery-powered,
infrared (IR) badge transmitters and IR sensors. The data is processed by the host computer for system
utilization, display, archive storage, and printed reports. Options include one-way and two-way speaker
communications and paging, as well as building controls. (Refer to page 7, Planning and Installation
Guidelines.)
2.2 Infrared (IR) Tracking
The use of an IR signal for tracking has distinct advantages, since it allows accurate localization using signals
that will not penetrate walls or floors. The IR signal transmissions may be usable through one or more
reflections from floors, walls, and partitions. These signals are accumulated in collectors, then retrieved by
concentrators for processing by the host computer. A speaker system allows equipment monitoring of alarms
and paging for badge button response.
A system of strategically placed sensors receives IR signals as badge transmitters move between rooms of a
building. A collector is used to receive signals from up to 24 sensors. Several collectors can be chained
together to expand the number of sensors on the system. The collectors process the data from the sensors and
add information, such as the room number of the sensor and charge level of the badge battery. This information
is then retrieved by the concentrator, which identifies the badge and room number data for storage in a
concentrator computer file. The host computer for further processing then retrieves this file.
The host computer translates the concentrator file data into names of rooms, personnel, and equipment. It also
identifies alarm signals and undetected badges. This data is utilized for paging, displaying current floor
locations of personnel or equipment alarms on the color monitor, and storing for later use in reports and
archiving.
The paging system consists of a series of intercom modules controlled by a central device called the Audio
Switching Matrix (ASM) and the Paging computer. The ASM and the paging computer work together to make
the connections between intercom modules.