We introduced the AFAM AlarmTech App, walking through its features and how to get started. If you missed it, you can catch up here.

This week we’re focusing on the CTU—our purpose-built monitoring hardware that connects to fire alarm panels, sprinklers, and related systems.

Each CTU is essentially a compact computer-on-a-board, designed by AFAM specifically for fire alarm monitoring. It includes a microprocessor, memory, battery management, and interfaces such as 4G/Cat-M1 cellular modems and other ports for panel connectivity.

There are two main installation approaches:

• In Panel – CTU is installed inside the fire alarm panel. AFAM is the only monitoring provider in New Zealand to offer this option.
• In Box – CTU is installed in its own metal enclosure, typically mounted near the panel.

The best choice depends on system requirements. Our compatibility guide explains what’s possible.

If your panel supports in-panel integration and you’re monitoring no more than one additional system, we recommend this option.

Advantages include:

• Lowest-cost way to access enhanced/IoT detector-level data (for supported panels)
• Faster and more cost-effective installation than In Box setups
• No need for a dedicated power point

​If you need to monitor two or more secondary systems—or your fire panel already contains an SSGD—then an In Box installation is required. This still allows access to IoT detector-level data, but typically requires an additional interface card (e.g., an SSGD).

For both installation types, aerials can be mounted directly on the fire alarm panel or CTU box. Where signal strength is low (e.g., basements or service rooms), we offer external aerial options.

Using the installation diagnostics in the AlarmTech App is strongly recommended when working in low-signal areas.

 See our blog guide here: Selecting and positioning aerials for best performance.

Choose a location that:

• Has a nearby power point
• Allows easy SGD cabling
• Avoids extreme heat, cold, or water exposure (e.g., pressure-washed areas)
• Provides safe, easy service access (think height and safe space to work)

​Unsure whether to choose In Panel or In Box, struggling with aerial placement, or dealing with legacy networks? Our team is here to help—get in touch anytime.

Next week we’ll continue looking at the CTU and look at some installation tips and tricks, including:

• How to quickly diagnose the common installation issues we see
• How to identify where the issue lies
• What resources are available to help during installation
• …and more!

In last week’s update, we showed you how to access enhanced / IoT Detector-Level Information in our systems. If you missed it, you can catch up here.

This week, we’re taking a step back to look at the bigger picture—the key parts of our monitoring systems and how everything fits together.

At the heart of our service are two components:

• The CTU – the hardware installed on-site that connects to the fire alarm panel.
• The Monitoring System – which receives information from the CTU and communicates with FENZ.

Our CTU is unique in the industry because it can be installed inside the fire alarm panel (our competitors can’t do this). In-panel installation means:

• Faster and easier setup
• Lower installation costs
• Greater reliability

It also enables access to enhanced / IoT Detector-Level Information for supported panels.

Every CTU is fitted with dual SIM cards (usually Spark and One NZ), ensuring communication is maintained even if one network goes down. These CTUs connect to our distributed monitoring system, which is hosted across secure datacentres in both Christchurch and Auckland for added resilience.

When something happens, the right people are alerted instantly via SMS, email, or both. Our smart rules engine makes sure messages are:

• Relevant to each role (e.g. testers only see “test” alerts).
• Delivered at the right times.
• Focused on the buildings they care about.

And with a single click on the Solomon link, you can see recent alarm events, keyholder details, and system information.

Our Solomon web portal gives you live access to your fire alarm systems anytime, anywhere. You can see system history, alarm events, and detector-level IoT data (where available).

Solomon works seamlessly on any device—whether it’s your phone, tablet, laptop, or PC. We’ll explore Solomon in detail in an upcoming article.

Available for both Android and iOS, the AFAM AlarmTech App gives service agents, property managers, and owners a simple way to view fire alarm events on the go.

A key feature: the app doesn’t just show AFAM events—it also includes competitor system messaging, so you have a single view of all the sites you maintain.

We provide this app free of charge to the industry, including our competitors, because it makes life easier for service agents and supports better outcomes for everyone.

For owners and managers with multiple properties, our Property Portfolio Portal makes it easy to:

• See the overall health of your systems at a glance.
• Access contact details and test histories for each site.
• View systems on a map.
• Display real-time IoT detector data directly on property floorplans (where available).

It’s a smarter way to manage larger portfolios with confidence.

Prefer information delivered straight to your inbox? Our automated reports do just that.

Scheduled reports arrive as PDFs or Excel files and include:

• Current system status
• Recent history
• Key performance insights

They’re free, easy to set up, and keep you fully informed without needing to log in.

Next week we’ll take a closer look at the AFAM AlarmTech App, including:

• Key features you may not know about
• How to set it up quickly
• Tips for using its diagnostic tools
• …and more

Stay tuned!

To maintain uninterrupted monitoring of a buildings fire alarm system even during mains power outages, our systems are equipped with backup power sources. We utilise two distinct types of backup power sources:

1. Lead acid batteries
2. Super capacitors

This post has information about both types of power source along with some things to consider when sourcing replacements.

General Information
When buying a lead-acid battery, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you choose the right battery for your needs. Lead-acid batteries are used in a variety of applications including vehicles, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), solar energy storage systems, and more. Here are some key considerations:

• Battery Type: There are different types of lead-acid batteries, including flooded (wet cell), gel, and AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat). Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages, so choose the one that best suits your application.
• Capacity: The battery capacity is measured in ampere-hours (Ah) and indicates how much energy the battery can store. Consider your power requirements and choose a battery with sufficient capacity to meet your needs.
• Voltage: Lead-acid batteries are available in various voltages, such as 6V, 12V, and 24V. Ensure that the battery voltage matches the requirements of your equipment or system.
• Cycle Life: Cycle life refers to the number of charge-discharge cycles a battery can endure before its capacity significantly degrades. A longer cycle life indicates a more durable battery.
• Maintenance: Some lead-acid batteries require regular maintenance, such as checking water levels and adding distilled water. AGM and gel batteries are generally maintenance-free, while flooded batteries may need more attention.
• Application: Consider the intended application of the battery. Different applications may have specific requirements for factors like discharge rate, depth of discharge, and temperature tolerance.
• Size and Form Factor: Ensure that the battery physically fits in the available space in your vehicle or equipment. Consider dimensions and form factor when choosing a battery.
• Charge and Discharge Rates: Some lead-acid batteries are designed for high discharge rates, making them suitable for applications like starting vehicles, while others are better for deep cycling and continuous power supply.
• Temperature Performance: Lead-acid batteries' performance can be affected by temperature. Some batteries perform better in extreme temperatures than others. Consider the operating temperature range of the battery.
• Brand and Quality: Opt for reputable brands known for producing reliable batteries. High-quality batteries tend to have better performance and longer lifespans.
• Warranty: Check the warranty offered by the manufacturer. A longer warranty period can indicate the manufacturer's confidence in the battery's quality and performance.
• Price: While cost is a factor, prioritize quality and suitability for your application over the cheapest option. A higher upfront cost for a better battery can save you money in the long run due to longer lifespan and better performance.
• Safety: Ensure the battery meets safety standards and regulations. Lead-acid batteries can release potentially harmful gases, so proper ventilation may be necessary, especially in enclosed spaces.
• Charging System Compatibility: If you're using the battery in a vehicle, ensure that your vehicle's charging system is compatible with the type of lead-acid battery you choose.

​Selecting a replacement
When it comes time to replace a lead acid battery do think carefully when selecting a replacement. Whilst it can be tempting to opt for the cheaper option, as a general rule they won't last as long or perform as well. Purchasing a more expensive option from a reputable brand will often save time and money in the long run.

General Information
A super capacitor, also known as an ultra capacitor or electric double-layer capacitor (EDLC), is an energy storage device that stores and releases electrical energy through the electrostatic separation of positive and negative charges. Unlike traditional capacitors that use a dielectric material to store charge, super capacitors store energy in an electric double-layer formed at the interface between a high-surface-area electrode and an electrolyte.

Some of the key characteristics of super capacitors are:

• High Power Density: Super capacitors can deliver and absorb electrical energy rapidly, making them suitable for applications requiring high power bursts, such as regenerative braking in electric vehicles or smoothing out fluctuations in renewable energy systems.
• Fast Charging and Discharging: Super capacitors can charge and discharge quickly, often within seconds or milliseconds. This rapid energy exchange is advantageous for short-term energy storage and rapid energy release.
• Long Cycle Life: Super capacitors have a high cycle life compared to batteries. They can endure hundreds of thousands to millions of charge-discharge cycles without significant degradation, making them durable for frequent cycling applications.
• Low Energy Density: While super capacitors excel in power delivery and rapid cycling, they generally have lower energy storage capacity (energy density) compared to batteries. This limitation makes them suitable for applications requiring short bursts of energy but not for long-term energy storage.
• Temperature Sensitivity: Super capacitors' performance can be affected by temperature fluctuations, which may impact their capacity and power output.

We use super capacitors in our systems where either the overall power requirements are lower, or space is at a premium.

Selecting a replacement
If you believe that a super capacitor connected to one of our systems needs to be replaced, please contact us and we'll guide you through the process.