Is a visible notification appliance required to be supplied with a secondary power supply?

A visible notification appliance does not require a secondary power supply. Under the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) guidelines, visible notification appliances can operate effectively on the primary power source provided by the fire alarm control panel. This is particularly relevant for appliances such as strobe lights, which are designed to alert individuals visually in the event of an emergency.

The primary power supply is typically sufficient, as these appliances are engineered to function reliably under standard operating conditions without necessitating a backup unless specific circumstances dictate otherwise. While it may be beneficial to have a secondary power supply for other components or more comprehensive systems, it is not a requirement specifically for visible notification appliances.

Understanding this principle is crucial for fire alarm technicians, as it helps ensure compliance with fire safety codes and optimal system implementation.