The GST-IFP8 Intelligent Addressable Fire Alarm Control Panel is engineered to operate seamlessly within comprehensive life safety and building automation ecosystems. Built upon an expandable modular framework, the panel interfaces directly with standard GST addressable field loops, multi-node panel networks, supervisory software suites, and third-party Building Management Systems (BMS).
Addressable Field Device & Loop Compatibility
The GST-IFP8 supports up to 8 intelligent detection loops, accommodating up to 242 digital addressable devices per loop for a maximum capacity of 1,936 points. Loops operate across a voltage range of 21 VDC to 27 VDC with a maximum output current limit of 300 mA, accommodating both Class A and Class B wiring topologies. The panel is fully compatible with GST digital and EN-certified addressable initiating and notification devices:
- Point Detectors: Fully compatible with DI-910N and I-910N series intelligent optical smoke, rate-of-rise heat, and multi-sensor detectors. Supports automated Dirty Detector Reporting and software-driven Day/Night sensitivity mode threshold changes.
- Manual Call Points: Interfaces with DI-920N and I-9202 series addressable break-glass and resettable manual call points.
- Notification Appliances: Direct addressable integration with DI-9400 and I-9400 series addressable sounders and visual alarm indicators.
- Interface & Input/Output Modules: Compatible with I-9300 series monitor modules, control interfaces, single/dual relay modules, and input/output interfaces for third-party system interlocking.
Loop Transmission Distances and Cabling Parameters
Field device loop transmission length is dependent upon copper conductor sizing. The signaling protocol supports the following maximum loop distances based on cable cross-sectional area:
- 1.00 mm² Screened Cable: Up to 800 m under full device loading.
- 1.50 mm² Screened Cable: Up to 1,200 m under full device loading.
- 2.00 mm² Screened Cable: Up to 1,500 m under half device loading.
Network Expansion & Peer-to-Peer Inter-Panel Communication
For distributed industrial premises and multi-building facilities, the GST-IFP8 integrates into large-scale network topologies via dedicated expansion communication cards:
- CAN Bus Networking (P-9965 / P-9965A Cards): Enables high-speed peer-to-peer inter-panel networking across Class B topologies, linking up to 240 GST intelligent fire alarm control panels.
- RS485 Multi-Panel Networking (P-9945A Card): Supports localized network links connecting up to 64 compatible panels for shared event reporting, acknowledge routines, and distributed control.
Repeater Interface & Remote Annunciation
Remote event display and zonal status reporting can be extended across architectural facilities using the optional P-9945RP RS485 Repeater Card. When installed, this interface supports up to 64 GST852RP passive remote display panels or GST8903 mimic panels across the system, complementing the main panel's built-in 140-zone LED array and 999 programmable zones.
BMS Integration & Centralized Workstations
The control panel coordinates with central monitoring facilities via the GST-GMC Graphic Monitor Center software package, providing centralized visualization of fire incidents, pre-alarms, and hardware faults. For integration into higher-level building management systems, the panel accepts the optional P-9935Modbus communication card, translating internal panel events directly to standard Modbus protocol over RS232.
Supervised Outputs, Auxiliary Circuits, and Standby Power
The panel chassis provides hardwired supervised terminal outputs requiring standard 4.7 kΩ End-of-Line Resistors (EOLR):
- Sounder Circuit Output: 24 VDC rated up to 1.0 A (4.7 kΩ EOLR).
- Fire Protection Equipment (F.P.E.) Output: 24 VDC rated up to 500 mA (4.7 kΩ EOLR).
- Fire Routing Output: 24 VDC rated up to 200 mA (4.7 kΩ EOLR).
- Auxiliary DC Supply: 24 VDC fused auxiliary power output delivering up to 500 mA (17–28 VDC nominal).
- Common Fault Relay: Volt-free changeover relay contacts rated at 1.0 A at 24 VDC.
- Secondary Battery Storage: The internal charging circuitry (27.3 V ± 0.3 V, 2.0 A limit) is sized specifically for two 12 V / 38 Ah sealed lead-acid batteries (they are not included).
