National Electrical Code

The NEC and Fire Alarm Systems — Part 1

Nov. 3, 2020

Article 760 definitions regarding NPLFA and PLFA

The general requirements for fire alarm systems are found in Art. 760, Part 1. As with any Article in the National Electrical Code (NEC), you should take the time to read and understand the definitions (typically in subsection 2). Two in particular stand out for this Article:

Non-Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuit (NPLFA). A fire alarm circuit that is powered by a source that complies with 760.41 and 760.43.
Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuit (PLFA). A fire alarm circuit that’s powered by a source that complies with 760.121.

Part II of Art. 760 provides the requirements for NPLFA, and it begins with 760.41 and 760.43. A key takeaway from that text is the power source output can’t exceed 600V

Part III of Art. 725 provides the requirements for PLFA, and it begins with 760.121. A key takeaway from that text is the power source must be listed or identified as a PLFA power source.

Also, in Part I of Art. 760, you’ll find the requirements for mechanical execution of work [760.24] and abandoned cables [760.23]; similar requirements are ubiquitous in the NEC.

About the Author

Mark Lamendola

Mark is an expert in maintenance management, having racked up an impressive track record during his time working in the field. He also has extensive knowledge of, and practical expertise with, the National Electrical Code (NEC). Through his consulting business, he provides articles and training materials on electrical topics, specializing in making difficult subjects easy to understand and focusing on the practical aspects of electrical work.

Prior to starting his own business, Mark served as the Technical Editor on EC&M for six years, worked three years in nuclear maintenance, six years as a contract project engineer/project manager, three years as a systems engineer, and three years in plant maintenance management.

Mark earned an AAS degree from Rock Valley College, a BSEET from Columbia Pacific University, and an MBA from Lake Erie College. He’s also completed several related certifications over the years and even was formerly licensed as a Master Electrician. He is a Senior Member of the IEEE and past Chairman of the Kansas City Chapters of both the IEEE and the IEEE Computer Society. Mark also served as the program director for, a board member of, and webmaster of, the Midwest Chapter of the 7x24 Exchange. He has also held memberships with the following organizations: NETA, NFPA, International Association of Webmasters, and Institute of Certified Professional Managers.