We gave you a general overview of the CTU—our purpose-built monitoring hardware—and what to think about when choosing an installation location. If you missed it, you can catch up here: CTU Installation Options.

A smooth CTU installation can save you time (and a few headaches). While the process is straightforward, there are some common issues we see again and again. This week we’re sharing our top tips, the most frequent installation mistakes, and a couple of hidden features you may not know about.

Here are the 5 most common installation issues our support team encounters.

1. SGD addresses not set correctly
The CTU polls each connected SGD in sequence to check the status of the fire alarm system. It does this by sending a message from the configured port and waiting for a response from the SGD at the assigned address. If the address on a multi-droppable SGD is set incorrectly—or if it’s connected to the wrong CTU port—the two devices won’t be able to communicate.

2. Loom Installed the wrong way around
This issue is easy to run into on some panels and applies only to in-panel installations. If the loom between the CTU and the panel is connected the wrong way around, the CTU won’t be able to read the panel’s status correctly, and the panel will often flag a “Defect.” To avoid this, check the installation guide carefully, ensure the loom isn’t twisted, and confirm it’s plugged into the correct port. One of the loom wires is marked to help you align it the right way—use this as your guide.

3. SGD not enabled via panel links or programming
Some fire alarm panels require programming or a jumper to be placed in the correct position on the motherboard to enable the SGD interface. Without this, the SGD won’t be activated and won’t be able to read the panel’s status. If you notice the SGD showing a different state than the panel, this should be the first thing to check.

In addition, some CTUs require a jumper to activate the second SGD port. These jumpers are normally configured correctly before the CTU is dispatched, but if they have been removed for any reason, it can cause issues. Always refer to the installation instructions to confirm jumper placement.

In both cases, the fix is usually straightforward. If you’re unsure, our support team is happy to help you diagnose and resolve any problems.

4. Aerial Installation Issues
Two common aerial installation mistakes:

• Aerial installed horizontally - The aerial transmits in a specific pattern and must be vertical to communicate effectively with the cellular network. Laying it flat or resting it on top of the box will result in poor signal, or it may not work at all. Make sure the aerial is vertical.
• Aerial installed inside metal box - Installing the aerial inside the fire alarm panel or CTU enclosure can sometimes work with the door open, but once closed, the signal will drop dramatically—or fail completely. Always mount the aerial outside the metal enclosure for reliable communication.

5. Battery vs SuperCap confusion
The CTU is designed to use either a battery or a SuperCap as its backup power supply—but never both at the same time. The SuperCap connector has a detection pin, which the CTU uses to recognize when a SuperCap is connected. If both a battery and SuperCap are plugged in, the battery can be overcharged and potentially damaged. Our support team will usually catch this during commissioning, but the rule is simple: use either a battery or a SuperCap, never both.

Sometimes we see batteries connected to the SuperCap port, or vice versa. This won’t harm the CTU, but it will leave it without an effective backup. Always double-check which port you’re using, and avoid modifying connectors to make them fit. When in doubt, give our support team a quick call—they’ll help you get it right.

Every CTU ships with an installation guide—but we know those sometimes get left behind in the van or misplaced on-site. Don’t worry: we keep digital copies of all guides here: Installation Guides. It’s always worth having the latest version to hand before starting the install.

If you’re unsure where to start or run into something unexpected during installation, give our support team a call. They’ll be happy to help and answer your questions. A quick call upfront can often save time later during CTU commissioning.

We’ll be taking a closer look at messaging options, including:

• The different message formats and strategies we support
• How to temporarily pause messaging
• How to subscribe to all messages for a site for a set period, even if you don’t normally receive them

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!

Careful placement of aerials, also known as antennas, is of paramount importance for ensuring cellular connections perform well. This is due to several reasons:

• Signal Strength: The primary function of an antenna is to transmit and receive electromagnetic signals. By positioning antennas thoughtfully, maximum signal strength can be achieved. This translates into better call quality, faster data speeds, and overall improved performance for cellular users.
• Signal Quality: The placement of antennas directly influences signal quality. For instance, when antennas are installed indoors or in areas with significant obstructions, they may lead to weaker signals and potential signal reflections, ultimately causing signal degradation.
• Avoiding Shadow Zones: Antennas must be strategically positioned to minimize the existence of "shadow zones" where the cellular signal becomes weak or non-existent. These areas are typically formed by obstacles such as tall buildings or natural features. Careful antenna placement plays a pivotal role in mitigating these issues and ensuring more consistent reception.

Consider the following when locating aerials:
Location

• External windows or near external walls are best, the less walls the signal passes through the better. Each wall degrades the signal by up to 97%. 
• Keep out of basements where possible, these are concrete and will degrade the signal, often requiring an external aerial to be fitted.
• Do not stick patch aerials on metal surfaces ie FAP

Height

• Height is everything when connecting to the cellular network. Install the aerial as high as you can to avoid interruptions.

Placement & Direction

• For Fixed & Patch aerials - Install both aerials vertical and parallel, at a distance of 150-350mm apart.

Interruptions

• People or vehicles can interrupt the cellular signal, keep the aerials high and away from high traffic areas.
• Areas with high RF can also cause interruptions, try to keep away from switchboards/data rooms etc. if possible.

Materials

• Glass is ideal for allowing the RF signal to pass through. Installing the patch aerials on a window is the best internal location.
• Steel blocks RF signal, try to keep the aerials away from steel beams, sprinkler pipes etc.