How is a panic button typically wired in alarm systems?

A panic button in alarm systems is typically wired as a normally open circuit. This means that the circuit remains open (or uncompleted) under normal conditions, and when the panic button is pressed, the circuit closes, which activates the alarm system.

The reason for utilizing a normally open configuration is that it ensures that the alarm is only triggered when the button is intentionally activated. This setup helps prevent accidental alarms that could occur from a circuit that is normally closed. If the circuit were closed normally, any fault or issue with the wiring could inadvertently trigger the alarm, leading to unnecessary responses. By using a normally open circuit, the system can reliably determine when a panic situation occurs, thus providing a more effective response mechanism for safety and security.

This configuration is standard in many alarm systems, creating a straightforward and reliable way to ensure that the alarm responds accurately in emergencies.