What does the term "supplementary" refer to in fire alarm system equipment?

The term "supplementary" in the context of fire alarm system equipment refers to components or systems that are not strictly required by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standards or by the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ). This indicates that while these supplementary devices may enhance the functionality or safety of a fire alarm system—such as additional detectors, notifications, or controls—they are considered optional. This distinction allows for flexibility in system design, enabling installers and designers to tailor systems to specific needs or preferences without being bound to mandatory requirements.

In contrast, additional options like equipment required by NFPA standards and mandatory tests pertain to items that must be incorporated into a fire alarm system to meet minimum safety codes. Similarly, while supplementary equipment may include additional devices, it is broader than just referring to "only additional equipment," as it encompasses items that enhance or support the primary alarm system but are not essential for compliance. Therefore, the correct understanding of "supplementary" lies in its non-mandatory nature in relation to established standards.