What is the function of a tamper switch in a fire alarm system?

• A. It detects smoke in the protected area and triggers the alarm directly.
• B. It detects unauthorized access or tampering with devices/panels and reports a supervisory or trouble condition.
• C. It monitors battery voltage to indicate low power.
• D. It controls access to the equipment room.

Answer: (B)

Tamper switches are used to detect unauthorized access or tampering with fire alarm devices and their enclosures. When a cover or the device itself is opened or altered, the switch changes state and sends a supervisory or trouble signal to the fire alarm control panel. This alerts that something may have been tampered with, so maintenance or security can verify the integrity of the equipment and keep the system reliable. It isn’t about sensing smoke, nor about monitoring battery voltage, and it doesn’t control access to the equipment room.