Overview
ISO 7240-18:2017 - Fire detection and alarm systems - Part 18: Input/output devices specifies requirements, test methods and performance criteria for input/output (I/O) devices that connect to the transmission path of a fire detection and alarm system. The standard covers devices used to receive and/or transmit signals necessary for the operation of fire detection, alarm and protection systems. It applies whether the I/O function is a standalone unit (including signal amplifiers and signal transfer in separate enclosures) or integrated into another device. Control and indicating equipment (e.g., repeater or fire brigade panels) are explicitly excluded.
Key topics and technical requirements
ISO 7240-18:2017 focuses on functional performance, reliability and interoperability of I/O devices. Major technical topics include:
- Functional specification: Manufacturers must adequately specify the device function so its performance can be assessed against the standard.
- Requirements for software-controlled devices: Software design, program/data storage and controls are covered to ensure predictable device behaviour.
- Environmental and mechanical testing: The standard defines test methods and performance criteria, including:
- Dry heat, cold, and damp heat tests
- Damp heat steady-state and cyclic endurance
- Sulfur dioxide (SO2) corrosion endurance
- Shock and impact (operational)
- Vibration (sinusoidal) for operational and endurance conditions
- Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) immunity: EMC immunity tests are required (the 2017 edition replaces EN 50130-4 with IEC 62599-2 for immunity testing).
- Monitoring of detachable devices: Requirements for detecting and signalling loss or disconnection of detachable components.
- Marking and documentation: Clause 7 covers marking; Clause 8 details required hardware and software documentation for conformity assessment.
- Test reporting: Structured test report requirements to support certification.
Applications and who uses this standard
ISO 7240-18:2017 is used for:
- Product development and design verification by manufacturers of I/O modules, signal amplifiers and interface units for fire alarm systems.
- Testing and certification bodies and independent laboratories performing environmental, EMC and functional tests.
- Fire protection engineers, system integrators and specifiers selecting compliant I/O devices for building fire detection and alarm installations.
- Procurement teams and installers requiring documented compliance and reliable interoperability between field devices and control panels.
- Maintenance organisations ensuring continued functional performance and safe operation of installed I/O devices.
Practical uses include component selection, type testing during product development, third-party certification, and creating compliant system specifications.
Related standards
Key normative references cited in ISO 7240-18:2017 include:
- ISO 7240-1 (General and definitions for fire detection and alarm systems)
- IEC/ISO environmental test standards (IEC 60068 series)
- IEC 62599-2 (EMC immunity test reference used in the 2017 edition)
Keywords: ISO 7240-18:2017, fire detection and alarm systems, input/output devices, I/O devices, test methods, EMC, environmental testing, signal amplifiers, fire protection.