NICET FAS-II study guide
NICET FAS-II · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
NICET lists Fire Alarm Systems (FAS) among its Fire Protection/Building Systems Programs. This page is an independent study resource for candidates working toward the NICET FAS Level II exam; it is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by NICET. The NICET FAS-II study guide has 5 sections and about 1,938 words.
01Fire Alarm System Fundamentals and Components
A protected-premises fire alarm system is a chain: initiating devices feed the fire alarm control unit (FACU), which drives notification appliances, all sustained by a primary and secondary power supply. Level II questions reward candidates who can place any device on that chain and name the signal it produces.
391 words, about 2 min02Codes, Standards, and Referenced Documents
NFPA 72, the National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code, governs design, installation, performance, and inspection/testing/maintenance of fire alarm systems. NFPA 70 (NEC) Article 760 governs the wiring method; Article 725 covers Class 2 and 3 circuits, and Articles 300, 310, and Chapter 9 tables supply general installation and conductor data.
389 words, about 2 min03System Layout, Design, and Documentation
Start with the coverage decision: complete (total), partial, or selective. For spot smoke detectors on a smooth ceiling 10 ft or less, the classic grid is 30 ft between detectors with no point of the protected area more than 15 ft from a detector - effectively a 30 ft by 30 ft square per detector.
407 words, about 2 min04Installation, Wiring, and Circuit Integrity
First determine whether the circuit is power-limited fire alarm (PLFA) or non-power-limited (NPLFA) - the Article 760 requirements differ. PLFA cable is typically secured within 12 in.
384 words, about 2 min05Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance
Inspect means look (visual condition, labeling, obstruction). Test means operate the device and confirm the response at the panel and at the appliances.
367 words, about 2 min