
silent knight 5230 user manual
Silent Knight 5230 User Manual: Comprehensive Plan
This manual details the Silent Knight 5230 fire alarm system, covering installation, programming, troubleshooting, and compatible accessories like power modules and annunciators.
The Silent Knight 5230 is a versatile and reliable fire alarm control panel (FACP) designed for a wide range of applications, from small commercial buildings to larger, more complex systems. This manual provides comprehensive guidance for installers, technicians, and end-users. It details the system’s capabilities, including its advanced features and benefits.
The 5230 offers a user-friendly interface with a 2-line, 16-character LCD display, providing clear indication of system status, trouble conditions, and alarm events. It supports various compatible devices and accessories, enhancing its flexibility and scalability. Understanding this manual is crucial for proper installation, programming, and maintenance, ensuring optimal performance and life safety.
Overview of the 5230 Fire Alarm Control Panel
The Silent Knight 5230 functions as the central hub of a fire alarm system, receiving signals from initiating devices like smoke detectors and pull stations. It processes these signals and initiates appropriate responses, including activating audible and visual alarms, and communicating with a central monitoring station.
This panel supports multiple zones, allowing for precise identification of alarm locations. It features a built-in communicator for off-site monitoring and offers compatibility with various expansion modules to increase system capacity. The 5230’s robust design and advanced features ensure reliable fire detection and notification, contributing to enhanced life safety within a protected premise.
Key Features and Benefits
The Silent Knight 5230 boasts a user-friendly interface with a 2-line, 16-character LCD display for clear indication of system status, trouble conditions, and alarm events. Key benefits include flexible programming options, supporting diverse system configurations and addressing needs.
Its compatibility with a wide range of devices—detectors, modules, and communicators—provides scalability. The panel’s robust construction ensures reliability, while features like distributed power modules enhance system resilience. The 5230 delivers cost-effective fire protection, simplifying installation and maintenance, ultimately safeguarding lives and property.
LCD Display Functionality
The Silent Knight 5230’s LCD display is central to system interaction, providing crucial information at a glance. The 2-line, 16-character screen clearly presents system status, including alarm, trouble, and supervisory conditions. Users can navigate menus to view zone information, acknowledge alarms, and access system programming parameters.
The display’s intuitive interface simplifies troubleshooting and maintenance. It indicates specific fault locations, aiding technicians in rapid diagnosis. Real-time event logging is also accessible, offering a historical record of system activity. This functionality enhances operational efficiency and ensures prompt response to fire events.

Trouble and Alarm Indication
The Silent Knight 5230 utilizes multiple methods for indicating trouble and alarm conditions. The LCD display prominently shows alarm and trouble messages, specifying the zone or device experiencing the issue. Audible alerts, via the system’s sounder base, provide immediate notification of an event. Visual indication is also provided through the system’s LEDs, differentiating between alarm, trouble, and supervisory states.
Remote annunciators, when connected, mirror these indications, extending awareness throughout a facility. The system logs all events, creating a detailed history for analysis. Prompt and clear indication ensures rapid response to emergencies and facilitates efficient system maintenance, minimizing downtime and maximizing safety.
System Components and Compatibility

The Silent Knight 5230 fire alarm control panel forms the core of a comprehensive life safety system. Key components include initiating devices like smoke and heat detectors, notification appliances such as horns and strobes, and power supplies ensuring continuous operation. Compatibility extends to a wide range of devices from Silent Knight and Honeywell, including the 5495 and 5895XL power modules.
Signal Line Circuit (SLC) expanders, like the 5815XL and 5808, increase system capacity. Communicators, such as the 6700 and 6808, enable off-site monitoring. The 5230 integrates seamlessly with EVS systems (6820-6820EVS) for enhanced functionality and reporting.
Compatible Devices
The Silent Knight 5230 boasts extensive compatibility with a diverse array of fire alarm devices. This includes a full suite of detectors – smoke, heat, and combination types – from both Silent Knight and Honeywell. Notification appliances, encompassing horns, strobes, and speakers, are readily integrated for clear and effective alerts.
Power modules like the 5495 and 5895XL ensure reliable power delivery. Signal Line Circuit expanders (5815XL, 5808) extend system reach. Communicators (6700, 6808) facilitate remote monitoring. Specialized devices like the EVS-50W and distributed power modules (5499) further enhance system capabilities, offering a scalable and adaptable solution.
Power Supply Requirements
The Silent Knight 5230 fire alarm control panel operates on a 24VDC power supply. A primary power source, typically a dedicated 120VAC circuit, is essential for consistent operation. A secondary, backup power source – a sealed lead-acid battery – is required to ensure uninterrupted functionality during power outages.
Power modules, such as the 5495 and 5895XL, expand the system’s power capacity to accommodate additional devices. Proper battery sizing is crucial, determined by the total load of all connected devices and the desired standby time. Refer to the power module installation manuals for specific voltage and current requirements, ensuring compliance with local codes.
Installation Guidelines
Proper installation of the Silent Knight 5230 is critical for reliable fire detection. Mount the control panel in a readily accessible, protected location, avoiding areas prone to extreme temperatures or moisture. All wiring must adhere to local and national electrical codes (NFPA 70).
Ensure adequate grounding and use appropriate wire gauges for all connections. Before connecting any devices, verify the power supply is disconnected. Carefully follow the wiring diagrams provided in this manual and the individual device datasheets. Regularly inspect wiring for damage and secure connections to prevent false alarms or system failures. Qualified personnel should perform all installation tasks.
Mounting the 5230 Control Panel
Securely mounting the Silent Knight 5230 is essential for stable operation. The panel should be mounted on a flat, solid surface capable of supporting its weight, plus any added components like power supplies or expanders. Use the provided mounting template to accurately mark screw locations.
Ensure sufficient clearance around the panel for wiring and future servicing. Avoid mounting near sources of electromagnetic interference. Verify the mounting location allows for easy access for inspection and maintenance. Proper mounting minimizes vibration and potential damage to internal components, ensuring long-term reliability of the fire alarm system.
Wiring Diagrams and Connections
Proper wiring is critical for the 5230’s functionality. Refer to the detailed wiring diagrams included in this manual and accompanying documentation for specific configurations. All wiring must adhere to local and national electrical codes. Ensure correct polarity when connecting power sources and maintain appropriate wire gauges for signal lines and power circuits.
Clearly label all wiring connections for easy identification during troubleshooting and maintenance. Securely terminate all wires using appropriate connectors. Double-check all connections before applying power to prevent short circuits or damage to the control panel and connected devices. Incorrect wiring can compromise system integrity.
Programming the 5230
The 5230 is programmed via its LCD display and keypad, allowing for customized system configuration. Programming involves setting ID codes for remote annunciators, defining zone configurations, and establishing communication parameters. Access to programming functions is typically password-protected to prevent unauthorized changes.

Carefully follow the step-by-step instructions outlined in this manual to avoid errors. Incorrect programming can lead to false alarms or system malfunctions. Regularly back up your programming settings to ensure quick restoration in case of system reset or component replacement. Detailed explanations of each programming option are provided.
Setting ID Codes

ID codes are crucial for proper remote annunciator operation with the Silent Knight 5230. Each annunciator requires a unique ID code, assigned during system programming, to ensure correct communication and alarm identification. This prevents confusion and ensures that alarms are displayed accurately on the appropriate annunciator panel.
The programming process involves accessing the ID code setting menu on the 5230 control panel and entering a numerical value for each connected annunciator. Refer to the annunciator’s datasheet for specific ID code ranges and compatibility information. Incorrect ID codes will result in communication failures.
Zone Configuration
Zone configuration defines how the 5230 interprets inputs from detection devices. Each zone represents a specific area within the protected premises, allowing for precise alarm location identification. Proper zone mapping is essential for efficient emergency response and accurate reporting.
The 5230 allows for flexible zone programming, including standard zoning, addressable zoning (with compatible devices), and cause-and-effect matrix programming. This enables customization to match the building’s layout and fire protection strategy. Careful consideration should be given to grouping devices logically, ensuring clear and concise alarm indications.
Understanding System Operation
The Silent Knight 5230 operates as the central hub for fire detection and alarm notification. It continuously monitors all connected devices – smoke detectors, heat detectors, pull stations, and sprinkler flow switches – for alarm signals. Upon detecting an activation, the 5230 initiates pre-programmed responses, including activating audible and visual alarms.
The system’s operation is governed by its programming, defining cause-and-effect relationships. This dictates which actions occur based on specific alarm conditions. The 5230 also provides comprehensive trouble monitoring, alerting personnel to issues like low battery or communication failures, ensuring system reliability and integrity.
Alarm Activation and Response
When a fire device activates, the Silent Knight 5230 immediately identifies the zone and type of alarm. The control panel then initiates the programmed response, typically activating audible notification appliances – horns, bells, or speakers – to alert occupants. Visual notification, using strobes, is also commonly employed.
Simultaneously, the 5230 can transmit alarm signals to a central monitoring station via a communicator (like the 6700 or 6808), ensuring a rapid response from emergency services. The LCD display clearly indicates the alarm location and type, providing vital information to responding personnel. Proper system programming is crucial for a coordinated and effective response.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Common issues with the Silent Knight 5230 often involve trouble conditions indicated on the LCD display. These can range from ground faults and open circuits on the signal line to low battery voltages in power modules (5495, 5895XL). Verify wiring connections and device integrity first.
If communication failures occur with the 6700 or 6808 communicators, check phone line connectivity and programming. For zone-specific problems, inspect initiating devices within that zone. Refer to the detailed documentation for each component – signal line circuit expanders (5815XL, 5808) – for specific troubleshooting steps. A systematic approach, utilizing the panel’s diagnostic features, is key.

Remote Annunciator Functionality (Model 5230)
The Silent Knight 5230 supports remote annunciators, providing a secondary display of system status and alarm information in separate locations. Model 5230 remote annunciators mirror the panel’s LCD display, indicating trouble and alarm conditions.
Proper setup requires assigning unique ID codes to each annunciator during programming. This ensures correct communication and data transmission. The annunciator displays the same zone information as the main panel, allowing for quick identification of alarm locations. Refer to the 5230 Annunciator Data Sheet for detailed installation and configuration instructions. Correct wiring and ID code settings are crucial for reliable operation.

Annunciator Data Sheet Details
The Silent Knight 5230 Annunciator Data Sheet (160.24 KB) provides critical specifications and installation guidance for remote annunciator models. It details wiring requirements, including power supply and signal line connections, ensuring compatibility with the 5230 fire alarm control panel.
The datasheet outlines the annunciator’s 2-line, 16-character LCD display functionality, clarifying how trouble and alarm indications are presented. It also specifies the process for setting unique ID codes for each annunciator, vital for proper system communication. Referencing this document is essential for technicians during installation and troubleshooting, guaranteeing a correctly functioning remote notification system.
Setting Up Remote Annunciators
Configuring remote annunciators with the Silent Knight 5230 involves several key steps. First, consult the Annunciator Data Sheet to understand wiring diagrams and power requirements. Each annunciator requires a unique ID code, set during programming, to ensure proper communication with the control panel – as detailed in the 5207 manual.
Proper ID code assignment is crucial for accurate alarm and trouble indication. Verify signal line connections and power supply voltage before initiating system testing. The 5230 performs all system operations, relaying information to the annunciators for remote monitoring and response. Careful setup guarantees reliable off-site notification.

Power Module Integration

Integrating power modules, such as the 5495 and 5895XL, expands the Silent Knight 5230’s power capabilities. The 5495 installation manual provides detailed wiring instructions and specifications for proper connection to the control panel. Ensure correct polarity and voltage levels before powering on the system. The 5895XL offers increased capacity for larger systems, detailed in its respective documentation.
Proper grounding is essential for stable operation and to prevent electrical interference. Always refer to the relevant installation manuals for specific requirements. Correct power module integration ensures reliable system performance and extended battery backup during power outages, safeguarding fire detection capabilities.

5495 Power Module Installation
The 5495 Power Module significantly boosts the 5230’s power supply, supporting expanded system configurations. Installation requires careful adherence to the 989.62 KB installation manual. Begin by disconnecting primary and secondary power to the control panel. Mount the 5495 securely, ensuring adequate ventilation. Connect the appropriate gauge wiring to the designated terminals, observing correct polarity – positive to positive, negative to negative.
Double-check all connections before restoring power. Verify the module is communicating with the 5230 panel. Improper installation can lead to system malfunction; therefore, strict adherence to the manual is crucial for reliable operation and optimal performance.
5895XL Power Module Details
The 5895XL Power Module provides a substantial increase in power capacity for the Silent Knight 5230 fire alarm control panel, accommodating larger and more complex systems. Weighing in at 1.53 MB of documentation, this module offers enhanced reliability and extended operational runtime. It’s designed for easy integration, featuring clearly labeled terminals for simplified wiring.
The 5895XL supports a wider range of field devices and auxiliary power requirements. Proper installation, detailed in the accompanying manual, is vital for optimal performance. Ensure correct voltage and current ratings are observed to prevent damage and maintain system integrity.
Signal Line Circuit Expanders
Signal Line Circuit (SLC) Expanders extend the capacity of the Silent Knight 5230 fire alarm control panel, allowing for connection of a greater number of initiating devices. Models like the 5815XL, documented in a 251.12 KB datasheet, are crucial for large facilities requiring extensive fire detection coverage. These expanders increase the system’s addressability, supporting more zones and devices without compromising performance.
Proper SLC expansion planning is essential. Considerations include total device count, wiring distances, and power requirements. Correct installation, following the manufacturer’s guidelines, ensures reliable communication and minimizes false alarms. Expanders effectively scale the system to meet evolving needs.
5815XL Signal Line Circuit Expander
The 5815XL Signal Line Circuit Expander significantly boosts the Silent Knight 5230’s capabilities, adding one SLC loop to the system. Its 251.12 KB datasheet details installation and operation, crucial for technicians. This expander supports up to 150 addressable devices, increasing system scalability for larger buildings and complex layouts. Proper wiring and addressing are vital for reliable performance.
Installation requires adherence to NFPA standards and the manufacturer’s guidelines. The 5815XL integrates seamlessly with the 5230 panel, providing enhanced detection coverage. Troubleshooting involves verifying power, wiring integrity, and device addressing. It’s a key component for expanding fire protection systems.
5808 Installation and Operations
The 5808 is a vital component for expanding the Silent Knight 5230’s system capacity, offering additional functionality. Its 4.22 MB installation and operations manual provides detailed guidance for technicians. This module allows for increased input/output points, enhancing the system’s ability to monitor diverse fire protection devices. Correct wiring and configuration are paramount for optimal performance and reliability.
Installation necessitates strict adherence to NFPA 72 guidelines and the manufacturer’s specifications. Proper addressing and loop configuration are critical. Troubleshooting involves verifying power, wiring connections, and device communication. The 5808 significantly enhances the flexibility and scalability of the 5230 fire alarm control panel.
Communicator Functionality
The Silent Knight 5230 offers robust communicator capabilities, enabling reliable off-site monitoring of fire alarm events. Models like the 6700 (5.51 MB manual) and 6808 (1.97 MB & 5.65 MB guides) facilitate communication with central stations. These communicators transmit alarm, trouble, and supervisory signals, ensuring prompt response from emergency services.
Proper installation and configuration are crucial for successful communication. This includes verifying phone line connectivity, programming correct account numbers, and testing signal transmission. The 6808 datasheet details specific installation requirements. Regular testing is recommended to confirm ongoing functionality and compliance with regulatory standards, guaranteeing a dependable fire safety system.
6700 Installation and Operation
The 6700 communicator module integrates seamlessly with the Silent Knight 5230, providing a reliable pathway for transmitting alarm signals to a central monitoring station. The 6700 Installation and Operation Manual (5.51 MB) details the step-by-step process, covering wiring requirements, DIP switch settings, and programming procedures.
Correct installation involves proper grounding, secure connections, and adherence to local codes. Operationally, the 6700 supports various communication protocols, ensuring compatibility with diverse monitoring services. Thorough testing, including initiating alarm signals and verifying transmission reports, is essential to confirm functionality and ensure a swift response in emergency situations.
6808 Datasheet and Installation
The 6808 module expands the capabilities of the Silent Knight 5230, offering enhanced communication features. Multiple resources are available, including the 6808 Datasheet (112.16 KB), the SK-6808_Manual.pdf (1.97 MB), and the 6808 Installation and Operation Guide (5.65 MB). These documents provide comprehensive details on specifications, wiring diagrams, and programming instructions.
Installation requires careful attention to wiring polarity and proper mounting. The datasheet outlines the module’s technical specifications, including voltage requirements and communication protocols. The installation guide details the step-by-step process, ensuring correct configuration for optimal performance. Proper setup guarantees reliable alarm signal transmission and integration with central monitoring stations.
Advanced System Features
The Silent Knight 5230 supports advanced features for sophisticated fire protection. Key among these is integration with the Distributed Power Module (5499), enhancing system reliability and scalability. Furthermore, compatibility with the EVS System (6820-6820EVS) provides advanced voice evacuation capabilities, crucial for clear emergency communication.
These features expand beyond basic alarm notification, offering zoned messaging and pre-recorded announcements. Proper configuration of these modules requires adherence to the respective installation and operation manuals. Utilizing these advanced options ensures a comprehensive and responsive fire safety solution, tailored to complex building requirements and occupant needs.
Distributed Power Module (5499)
The 5499 Distributed Power Module extends the capabilities of the Silent Knight 5230 system by providing a secondary power source. This enhances system reliability, ensuring continued operation during a main power failure or disruption. Installation requires careful adherence to the 5499 Installation Manual (834.88 KB), available online.
Proper wiring and configuration are critical for optimal performance. The module supports increased field device capacity, reducing the need for multiple control panels in larger facilities. It’s designed to seamlessly integrate with the 5230, offering a robust and dependable power solution for critical fire alarm components. Refer to the manual for detailed specifications and safety precautions.
EVS System Integration (6820-6820EVS)
Integrating the 6820 or 6820EVS Enhanced Voice System with the Silent Knight 5230 significantly expands voice evacuation capabilities. These systems provide clear, customizable voice messages during emergencies, guiding occupants to safety. The 6820-6820EVS Installation and Operation Manual (4.99 MB) details the integration process, including wiring schematics and programming instructions;
Proper configuration ensures seamless communication between the fire alarm control panel and the voice evacuation system. Features include zoned messaging and pre-recorded announcements. Compatibility requires adherence to specific installation guidelines outlined in the manual, ensuring reliable operation during critical events. The 5820XL-5820XL EVS Installation and Operation Manual (5.17 MB) also provides relevant information.
Technical Specifications
The Silent Knight 5230 Fire Control/Communicator (Rev; C, 04/03, Part Number 150865) boasts a robust feature set. It’s a 4.9 model supporting a remote annunciator (Model 5230). Key specs include a 2-line, 16-character LCD display for clear status indication. The system supports trouble and alarm signaling, and is a registered trademark of Honeywell International, Inc.
Detailed specifications are available in the 5230 Technical Specifications document. It’s crucial to note that specifications are subject to change without notice. For technical support, contact 800-446-6444. This document isn’t intended for installation; always refer to complete installation manuals for proper setup and operation.
5230 Technical Specifications (Rev. C)
Revision C of the 5230 Technical Specifications (dated 04/03, Part Number 150865) details the fire control and communicator’s capabilities. This 4;9 model supports the 5230 Remote Annunciator, offering comprehensive system control. The panel features a user-friendly 2-line, 16-character LCD display, providing clear indication of system status, including trouble and alarm conditions.
Honeywell International, Inc. holds registered trademarks for Silent Knight and Honeywell. This document isn’t for installation; it outlines specifications subject to change. For detailed application guidance and support, contact Honeywell at 800-446-6444. Always consult complete installation manuals for proper implementation.
Regulatory Compliance Information
The Silent Knight 5230 Fire Alarm Control Panel is designed to meet stringent regulatory standards for life safety systems. While specific certifications aren’t detailed in the provided excerpts, compliance with NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code) is implicit in its function as a fire alarm control unit.
Users should consult the full installation manual and local authorities having jurisdiction (AHJ) to ensure adherence to all applicable codes and regulations. Honeywell, as the manufacturer, provides documentation to support compliance efforts. Proper installation and maintenance are crucial for maintaining regulatory adherence and system reliability.