How quickly should the secondary power supply provide power to the fire alarm system when the primary fails?

The secondary power supply should provide power to the fire alarm system within 10 seconds of a primary power failure to ensure that the system remains operational and can continue to perform its critical functions. This prompt transfer of power is vital for the reliability of the fire alarm system, as any delay beyond this timeframe can compromise the system's effectiveness in detecting and alerting occupants to a fire emergency.

A transfer time of 10 seconds allows for a seamless transition, which is crucial in maintaining continuous monitoring and protection. Longer transfer times, such as 15 or 30 seconds, could unnecessarily put lives at risk since they could lead to a lapse in the system's functionality during a critical moment. The need for rapid power restoration emphasizes the importance of reliable backup power solutions in fire protection systems.