Overview
Installations against standalone panels can utilise the onboard printer port. Installations against networks require an Advanced BMS Interface.
On an Advanced system with a high number of events, the printer port may not reliably output (fire alarm events have output priority over other events).
The connection between a Nimbus Connect/Fixed Gateway and a BMS Interface utilises a heartbeat which, if interrupted, shows as panel communications being lost in Nimbus. This facility is not available via the printer port.
Events are not output when the panel is in Commissioning Mode.
Equipment required
From Nimbus
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A Nimbus Connect or Fixed Gateway device
From the panel manufacturer/3rd party
-
3 core screened data cable
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An Advanced BMS Interface (networks only)
Panel configuration
Configure according to the installation method.
Printer port (MxPro 4)
Navigate to Menu > Tools > Print > Setup-Printer and configure as follows.
Printer port (MxPro 5)
Using the Advanced Configuration software, ensure the External Printer is enabled, along with all event types. Ensure "Monitored Link" (printer port monitoring) is DISABLED.
BMS Interface
Install and configure the BMS as per the manufacturers instructions.
Ensure BMS Interface Test Switch is in the off position (located next to the RS232 port as below).
The BMS Interface will output all network events except Mute and Silence events.
Wiring
Using 3 core screened data cable, wire as follows:
| Printer Port/BMS Interface | Nimbus RS232 |
| Ground | Ground |
| Tx | Rx |
| Rx | Tx |
Note the schedule of the printer port plug as below.
