I heard of a “smart switch,” a popit switch, or a polling loop switch. What is it?
A smart switch does not just cause an open or short on the wire like a typical burglary detection switch. Normal switches can become welded into an inoperable state by high voltage like lightning striking nearby. The smart switch sends information to the panel constantly. If the switch is damaged by some high voltage event, it no longer checks in with the panel and the panel responds appropriately. Usually the panel and smart switch are integrated. The panel “polls” the smart switch and the switch sends an “I am okay” message. The panel then polls the next switch. The cycle continues with the panel constantly asking for and receiving the status of every smart switch. If the panel is armed and the smart switch sends an “I have detected intrusion” signal, the panel responds by setting off the bells or sirens. While the system is armed, if the smart switch does not report in for any reason, the panel responds with an alarm because a switch is “missing.” While the panel is disarmed, if the
