What is a digital device that transmits fire alarm information over the public switched telephone network called?

The digital device that transmits fire alarm information over the public switched telephone network is known as a DACT, which stands for Digital Alarm Communicator Transmitter. This device plays a critical role in fire alarm systems by enabling communication between the fire alarm system and a central monitoring station through standard telephone lines.

The DACT converts the fire alarm signals into a digital format that can be transmitted effectively over these networks. It ensures that in the event of a fire or other alarms, the information is relayed promptly and accurately to the monitoring center, allowing for timely emergency response.

In contrast, signal processors are used to process and manage signals, while pager systems are for individual notifications and do not serve the specific function of alarm transmission over telephone networks. A control panel is essential for managing a fire alarm system but does not directly transmit information to monitoring stations. Thus, the role of a DACT is specialized and crucial for effective alarm communication.