A tamper switch in a fire alarm system is primarily used to report which condition?

• A. It detects unauthorized access or tampering with devices/panels and reports a supervisory or trouble condition.
• B. It triggers an alarm when smoke is detected.
• C. It shuts down the building's main power during a fire.
• D. It measures ambient noise to ensure audible alarms are functional.

Answer: (A)

Tamper switches exist to detect physical interference with fire alarm devices and panels. If a cabinet, cover, or device is opened or moved, the tamper switch changes state and the system sends a supervisory or trouble signal to alert that someone may have tampered with the equipment. This helps maintenance or security address the issue without falsely signaling a fire. It’s distinct from smoke detection, which triggers an alarm, from power shutdown actions, or from measuring ambient noise, which are not functions of a tamper switch. That’s why the description of detecting unauthorized access and reporting a supervisory/trouble condition best matches what a tamper switch does.