Federal Signal Corporation 2-120 User manual

255154
Rev. R1 0719
Printed in U.S.A.
© Copyright 2005-2019 Federal Signal Corporation
Models 2-120 and 2-240
Omni-Directional Siren
Description, Specications, Installation,
Operation, and Service Manual

Limited Warranty
This product is subject to and covered by a limited warranty,
a copy of which can be found at www.fedsig.com/SSG-Warranty.
A copy of this limited warranty can also be obtained by written
request to Federal Signal Corporation, 2645 Federal Signal Drive,
University Park, IL 60484, email to [email protected] or
call [phone].
This limited warranty is in lieu of all other warranties, express or
implied, contractual or statutory, including, but not limited to the
warranty of merchantability, warranty of tness for a particular
purpose and any warranty against failure of its essential purpose.
2645 Federal Signal Drive
University Park, Illinois 60484-3167
www.fedsig.com
Customer Support 800-548-7229 • [phone]
Technical Support 800-524-3021 • [phone]
All other product names or trademarks are properties of their respective owners.
All products indicated are trademarks of Federal Signal Corporation.

3
Description, Specications, Installation, Operation, and Service Manual
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Contents
Safety Messages......................................................................................................................................................5
General Description ................................................................................................................................................7
Siren Description.................................................................................................................................................7
Controls Description............................................................................................................................................7
Models RC2W-120 (120 Vac) and RC2W-240 (240 Vac) ...........................................................................7
Models FC (One-way status) or FCTB (Two-way status) Controllers .........................................................7
Signal Description ...............................................................................................................................................8
Ordering Products...................................................................................................................................................9
Specications ..........................................................................................................................................................9
Installation..............................................................................................................................................................10
Determining a Suitable Location .......................................................................................................................10
Installing the Siren ............................................................................................................................................ 11
Pole Installation.........................................................................................................................................12
Flat Surface Mount....................................................................................................................................14
Electrical Connections ......................................................................................................................................17
Pre-operation Checkout ....................................................................................................................................19
Circuit Description ................................................................................................................................................19
Service and Maintenance......................................................................................................................................20
Testing and Inspecting the Siren.......................................................................................................................20
Inspecting the Motor Brushes ...................................................................................................................20
Corrective Maintenance ....................................................................................................................................20
Troubleshooting ........................................................................................................................................20
Model 2 Motor Brush Replacement ..........................................................................................................21
Model 2 Armature and Field Replacement................................................................................................21
Replacement Parts ................................................................................................................................................27
Getting Service ......................................................................................................................................................27

4
Models 2-120 and 2-240
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Tables
Table 1 Ordering Product........................................................................................................................................9
Table 2 Optional Accessories.................................................................................................................................9
Table 3 Specications .............................................................................................................................................9
Table 4 Sound levels predictions.........................................................................................................................10
Table 5 Troubleshooting .......................................................................................................................................21
Table 6 Model 2 Siren Parts List...........................................................................................................................25
Table 7 Models RC2W-120 and RC2W-240 Siren Remote Control Parts List...................................................26
Table 8 Replacement Parts ...................................................................................................................................27
Figures
Figure 1 Signal Characteristics..............................................................................................................................9
Figure 2 Mounting Plate Drilling Detail................................................................................................................12
Figure 3 Typical Model 2 Pole-Mounted Installation ..........................................................................................14
Figure 4 Typical Model 2 Platform Mount............................................................................................................16
Figure 5 Contactor Wiring for Model 2 using 120 Vac .......................................................................................17
Figure 6 Contactor Wiring for Model 2 using 240 Vac .......................................................................................18
Figure 7 Model 2 Field Removal...........................................................................................................................22
Figure 8 Model 2 Field Replacement ...................................................................................................................23
Figure 9 Model 2 Parts Index................................................................................................................................24
Figure 10 Model RC2W Parts Index .....................................................................................................................26

5
Safety Messages
Description, Specications, Installation, Operation, and Service Manual
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Safety Messages
It is important to follow all instructions shipped with this product. This device is to be
installed by trained personnel who are thoroughly familiar with the country electric codes
and will follow these guidelines as well as local codes and ordinances, including any
state or local noise control ordinances. Listed below are important safety instructions and
precautions you should follow:
Important Notice
Federal Signal reserves the right to make changes to devices and specications detailed in
the manual at any time in order to improve reliability, function or design. The information
in this manual has been carefully checked and is believed to be accurate; however, no
responsibility is assumed for any inaccuracies.
Publications
Federal Signal recommends the following publications from the Federal Emergency
Management Agency for assistance with planning an outdoor warning system:
• The “Outdoor Warning Guide” (CPG 1-17)
• “Civil Preparedness, Principles of Warning” (CPG 1-14)
• FEMA-REP-1, Appendix 3 (Nuclear Plant Guideline)
• FEMA-REP-10 (Nuclear Plant Guideline).
Planning
• If suitable warning equipment is not selected, the installation site for the siren is
not selected properly or the siren is not installed properly, it may not produce the
intended optimum audible warning. Follow Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) recommendations.
• If sirens are not activated in a timely manner when an emergency condition
exists, they cannot provide the intended audible warning. It is imperative that
knowledgeable people, who are provided with the necessary information, be
available at all times to authorize the activation of the sirens.
• When sirens are used out of doors, people indoors may not be able to hear the
warning signals. Separate warning devices or procedures may be needed to
effectively warn people indoors.
• The sound output of sirens is capable of causing permanent hearing damage. To
prevent excessive exposure, carefully plan siren placement, post warnings, and
restrict access to areas near sirens. Review and comply with any local or state noise
control ordinances as well as OSHA noise exposure regulations and guidelines.
• Activating the sirens may not result in people taking the desired actions if those to
be warned are not properly trained about the meaning of siren sounds. Siren users
should follow FEMA recommendations and instruct those to be warned of correct

6
Safety Messages
Models 2-120 and 2-240
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
actions to be taken.
• After installation, service, or maintenance, test the siren system to conrm that it is
operating properly. Test the system regularly to conrm that it will be operational in
an emergency.
• If future service and operating personnel do not have these instructions to refer to,
the siren system may not provide the intended audible warning and service personnel
may be exposed to death, permanent hearing loss, or other bodily injury. File these
instructions in a safe place and refer to them periodically. Give a copy of these
instructions to new recruits and trainees. Also give a copy to anyone who is going to
service or repair the siren.
Installation and Service
• Electrocution or severe personal injury can occur when performing various
installation and service functions such as making electrical connections, drilling
holes, or lifting equipment. Therefore only experienced electricians should install
this product in accordance with national, state and any other electrical codes having
jurisdiction. Perform all work under the direction of the installation or service crew
safety foreman.
• The sound output of sirens is capable of causing permanent hearing damage. To
prevent excessive exposure, carefully plan siren placement, post warnings and
restrict access to areas near the sirens. Sirens may be operated from remote control
points. Whenever possible, disconnect all siren power including batteries before
working near the siren.
• After installation or service, test the siren system to conrm that it is operating
properly. Test the system regularly to conrm that it will be operational in an
emergency.
• If future service personnel do not have these warnings and all other instructions
shipped with the equipment to refer to, the siren system may not provide the intended
audible warning and service personnel may be exposed to death, permanent hearing
loss, or other bodily injury. File these instructions in a safe place and refer to them
periodically. Give a copy of these instructions to new recruits and trainees. Also, give
a copy to anyone who is going to service or repair the sirens.
Operation
Failure to understand the capabilities and limitations of your siren system could result in
permanent hearing loss, other serious injuries or death to persons too close to the sirens
when you activate them or to those you need to warn. Carefully read and thoroughly
understand all safety notices in this manual and all operations-related-items in all
instruction manuals shipped with equipment. Thoroughly discuss all contingency plans
with those responsible for warning people in your community, company, or jurisdiction.
Read and understand the information contained in this manual before
attempting to install or service the siren.
Pay careful attention to the notice located on the equipment.

7
General Description
Description, Specications, Installation, Operation, and Service Manual
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
General Description
This manual describes the characteristics, specications, installation for the siren as
well as the additional information required to operate, service, and maintain the control
system.
The Federal Signal Model 2 outdoor warning sirens are omni-directional sirens that are
capable of producing high-intensity warning signals over a large area. Federal Signal
provides mounting hardware that enables you to install a siren on a utility pole or on the
roof of a building. As a result, the siren can be installed in almost any situation. The high
efciency of these siren models enables them to produce a high sound level while making
moderate demands on the power source.
Siren Description
The Model 2 Siren is a 102 dB single tone siren.
The Model 2 siren mechanism is enclosed in a sheet metal housing. A conical dome is
mounted on the top of the housing and two truncated conical cowls are attached to the
housing, approximately one-third and two-thirds along the height of the housing.
A Model RC2W Motor Starter is required to operate the siren. The Model 2 uses a 120-
or 240-volt universal motor that can operate from either DC or 25-60 Hz single-phase
AC.
The mechanism of all siren models covered in this manual consists of a vertically
installed motor with a stator attached to the motor housing, and a rotor mounted on the
drive shaft concentric to the stator. The rotor and stator each contain at least one row
of ports. As the motor rotates the rotor, air is drawn through an intake tube and passes
through the rotor and stator ports in pulses. These pulses are produced because the
rotor alternately opens and closes the stator ports. The pulses of air produce sound at a
frequency (pitch) that is dependent on the instantaneous rotational speed of the motor and
the number of ports in the rotor-stator combination.
A Model RC2W Motor Starter is required to operate the siren. The Model 2 uses a 120-
or 240-volt universal motor that can operate from either DC or 25-60 Hz single-phase
AC.
Controls Description
Models RC2W-120 (120 Vac) and RC2W-240 (240 Vac)
The Model RC2W Motor Starters are basically heavy-duty relays that are required for the
starting and operating current of a Model 2 siren. The RC2W is enclosed in a NEMA type
3R enclosure. The unit must be installed on a vertical surface.
Models FC (One-way status) or FCTB (Two-way status) Controllers
The FC or FCTB siren controllers provide RF and/or wire line control of individually
programmable timing cycles for contact closure outputs. The versatility of the FC
Controller makes it an ideal choice for virtually all siren control applications or any other
process that can be controlled through relay contacts.

8
General Description
Models 2-120 and 2-240
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
The microprocessor-based controller contains the following features:
• Synthesized Radio Receiver (Low Band, High Band, or UHF —three separate
models)
• Two-Tone and DTMF Decoders
• Up to four Individually Programmable Output Relays
• Siren Tone Generator
• Push Buttons for Local Control
• Contact Closure Inputs for Land Line Control
• RS232 Programming Port
• Diagnostic LEDs
• Programmability
All functions of the FC Controller are programmable from a current Windows compatible
computer with an RS232 port using FSPWARE or Commander®Software System
(Commander). The software allows easy conguration, uploading and downloading of
control programs.
Programming options include:
• Radio Receiver Frequency
• Single and Two-Tone Sequential Decode Tones and Tone Lengths
• DTMF Decode Digits
• Output Relay Timing Patterns
• Tone Generation Frequencies and Durations
You can program up to six (6) control timing sequences into the controller. You can
choose standard siren control timings or design custom relay output timings. You can
activate the control functions from any combination of six (6) Single Tone, Two-Tone
Sequential and/or DTMF tones. You can also initiate timing sequences using the local
buttons and contact closure inputs.
Conguration programs are stored in nonvolatile E2memory to ensure retention even
during a complete power failure.
Signal Description
The sirens are capable of producing a steady single frequency signal, a wailing rising
and falling frequency signal and a fast wailing signal. The steady signal is frequently
used as a civil defense “Alert” or weather emergency signal. The wailing signal is often
used as a civil defense “Attack” signal. The fast wail or re signal is used as a re signal
to summon the local re department. You can use any of the signals for any desired
application. These signals are shown graphically in the following gure.

9
Ordering Products
Description, Specications, Installation, Operation, and Service Manual
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Figure 1 Signal Characteristics
291A134A
AUX1 SIGNAL "FIRE"
STEADY SIGNAL "ALERT"
WAILING SIGNAL "ATTACK"
Ordering Products
Contact our Federal Signal Sales Engineers to design a system that meets your specic
requirements.
Table 1 Ordering Product
Part Number Description
2-120 120 Vac/dc, 102 dBc, Roof mount standard
2-240 240 Vac/dc, 102 dBc, Roof mount standard
RC2W-120 120 V Motor Starter
RC2W-240 240 V Motor Starter
Table 2 Optional Accessories
Part Number Description
PMS Pole Mounting Stand
FSPWARE Federal Signal programming software (Non-digital applications)
FC Controller with FC Control Board
FCH Controller with one-way High-band (150-172 MHz) radio receiver
FCU Controller with one-way UHF band (450-470 MHz) radio receiver
Specications
Table 3 Specications
Power Requirements 120 Vac/dc, single-phase 24 A
or 240 Vac/dc, single-phase 12 A
Power 2 HP
Top Frequency - Single Tone 533 Hz (60 Hz) or 444 Hz (50 Hz)
Sound Output 102 dBC at 100 ft (30.5 m - Model 2)
Motor Type Single phase ball bearing, universal series 120 Vac/dc,
or single phase ball bearing universal series 240 Vac/dc
Height 25.5 inches (65 cm)
Diameter 18 inches (46 cm)
Net Weight 59 lb (27 kg)
Shipping Weight 85 lb (36 kg)
Operating Temperature -22°F to 149°F (-30°C to 65°C)

10
Installation
Models 2-120 and 2-240
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Installation
Electrocution or severe personal injury can occur when making electrical
connections, drilling holes, or lifting equipment. Therefore, installation should
be performed by experienced electricians in accordance with national and
local electrical codes and ordinances, including any state or local noise control
ordinances.
Determining a Suitable Location
The output level of an the sirens are capable of causing permanent hearing
damage. To prevent excessive exposure, carefully plan the siren location and
post warnings where excessive levels may be encountered. Refer to OSHA 29
CFR 1910.95 for safe exposure limits.
Do not expose personnel to sound levels above 123 dBC.
Careful consideration of the factors affecting the propagation of sound from the siren
and the response of the human ear to the sound will optimize the ability of the siren
to effectively warn the community. Follow Federal Emergency Management Agency
(FEMA) guidelines when designing the warning system.
The reduction of signal intensity as distance from the siren increases and the minimum
desired signal level at the fringe of the area to be covered are important considerations
when choosing a siren installation site. As the distance from the siren increases, sound
level losses accumulate. These losses are a result of weather conditions, the terrain,
obstructions in the sound path, and the pitch of the sound and the height of the siren.
Optimum sound propagation conditions occur when no obstructions exist in the sound
path, the terrain is hard and at, and the air is blowing away from the source. Under these
conditions, you can expect a 6 dB loss per distance doubled. A loss per distance doubled
of 10 dB is typically experienced because atmosphere is rarely calm, terrain may not be
at, and buildings or other obstructions are frequently present in the sound path.
Using a 10 dB per distance doubled loss factor, the following sound levels are predicted
for the sirens in the following table.
Table 4 Sound levels predictions
Distance Model 2
100 feet (30.5 m) the sound level is 102 dB
200 feet (61 m) the sound level is 94 dB
400 feet (122 m) the sound level is 86 dB

11
Installation
Description, Specications, Installation, Operation, and Service Manual
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
FEMA studies indicate typical ambient sound levels vary by location as follows:
• Industrial Areas: 70+ dBC
• Urban Areas: 60 dBC
• Rural Areas: 50 dBC
Assuming a typical 10 dB loss per distance doubled and a 70 dB minimum sound level
required to warn a typical industrial area, the effective range for a Model 2 Siren is
approximately 910 feet (278 meters).
Optimum warning is obtained when the warning signal is at least 10 dB above ambient.
Do not expose personnel to sound levels above 123 dBC.
Wind speed and direction often affects the propagation of sound from the siren.
Consequently, the direction of the prevailing wind may be a signicant factor to consider
when selecting the installation site(s) of a small, one or two site siren system. For
example, if the prevailing wind is from the west, it may be desirable to install the siren
toward the western edge of the area to be covered.
Other factors to consider when selecting the installation site(s) include the availability
of suitable electrical power, the access to and ease of installation and maintenance, the
height of surrounding obstructions, and security against vandalism.
Installing the Siren
Moving parts could cause severe cuts or amputation. DO NOT reach into the
siren openings.
Most siren installations are one of two types: Pole Mount or Flat Surface Mount. These
two congurations make it possible to install a siren in almost any situation. If the
installations in this manual are not suitable, modication of one of the congurations may
be practical.
A siren is typically installed 35 to 40 feet above the ground. If the installation is less
than 35 feet above the ground, the sound intensity at close range may increase, but the
effective range of the siren may be reduced. Conversely, if the siren is located more than
40 feet above the ground, the effective range of the siren may increase, but the sound
may skip over areas closer to the siren. These variables may make it desirable to test the
sound coverage of the siren at various heights and locations whenever possible. ALWAYS
ensure that the air intakes are clear when the siren is being tested and when it is installed
at its nal location.

12
Installation
Models 2-120 and 2-240
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Pole Installation
A Pole Mounting Stand (Model PMS) is required when mounting the Model 2 on a utility
pole. The PMS consists of a mounting plate, three angle iron legs, six 1/2-inch -13 by
2-inch hex head cap screws, six 1/2-inch-13 nuts, and six 1/2-inch lock washers.
To install the siren on a pole:
1. Uncrate the siren and remove the siren from the shipping base.
2. Attach the cast iron legs of the siren mechanism to the mounting plate using 3/8-inch
lock washers, nuts, and bolts through the three slots in the mounting plate. (See
Figure 2.)
3. Set the siren housing over the siren mechanism on the mounting plate. Center the
housing over the mechanism. Attach the housing to the plate using aluminum clips,
1/4-inch lock washers, nuts, and bolts through the three 3/8-inch diameter holes. (See
Figures 2 and 10.)
Figure 2 Mounting Plate Drilling Detail
291190B
EQUALLY SPACED
3X Ø0.38 HOLE
3X 0.75 X 1.00 SLOT
EQUALLY SPACED
3X Ø0.75 HOLE
R7.13
Ø1.50 HOLE
18.00
120°
60.00°
109.2°
125.4°
125.4°
18.00
R7.88
R5.09
30.00°
4. Lay the siren mechanism on its side and attach the three legs to the mounting plate
using three angle iron clips and six 1/2-inch-13 nuts and bolts. Attach the legs
through three 0.75-inch by 1-inch slotted holes indicated in Figure 2.

13
Installation
Description, Specications, Installation, Operation, and Service Manual
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
5. Dig the hole for the Class 2 utility pole and lay the pole on the ground as close as is
practical to the installation site.
6. With the siren lying on its side and the pole lying on the work surface, attach the
siren to the utility pole using at least two 5/8-inch lag bolts at least four inches long
(not supplied) for each leg. If necessary, install shims between the siren legs and the
pole.
7. Wrap a cable or chain capable of bearing at least one ton around the pole/siren
combination at least three times. Wrap the chain or cable around the legs of the siren.
Use the chain or cable in conjunction with a crane or hoist capable of lifting at least
one ton to erect the pole in accordance with accepted practice.
8. Install the Model RC2W Motor Starter and a fused disconnect switch in a location
on the pole that is readily accessible to service personnel but discourages vandalism.
The RC2W must be installed in a vertical position for proper operation. Install the
electrical devices following NEC recommendations and local electrical codes. A
suggested installation conguration is shown in Figure 3.

14
Installation
Models 2-120 and 2-240
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Figure 3 Typical Model 2 Pole-Mounted Installation
291A124A1
GROUND LINE
TWO 8 FOOT GROUND RODS
6 Ga. GROUND WIRE
WEATHER PROOF CABT.
TO HOUSE SIREN
FUSED DISCONNECT
FC UNIT
RIGID CONDUIT
*
CUSTOMER SUPPLIED
*
*
*
*
*
CONTROL WIRING
SWITCH
MOTOR STARTER
ANTENNA
TO BE NO. 4 COPPER OR
GALVONIZED IRON, WITH
TWO CONTINUOUS NO.6
COPPER GROUND WIRES AND
CLAMPS, OR EQUIVALENT.
Flat Surface Mount
Flat surface mount installation is practical when the installation site is on a at roofed
building. A weight distribution mat is often required to safely distribute the siren’s weight
on the roof. A Structural Engineer is required to specify the appropriate mounting method
to safely mount the siren on a roof.
Post high sound level warning signs at all roof entry points and be sure that the siren is
not blocked by parapets or other obstructions in the siren’s sound path.

15
Installation
Description, Specications, Installation, Operation, and Service Manual
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Moving parts could cause severe cuts or amputation. DO NOT reach into the
siren openings.
To at surface mount the siren:
1. Center the siren mechanism on the mounting surface, and using the mounting
holes in the legs of the mechanism as a template, drill three 7/16-inch holes in the
mounting surface. (See Figure 4.)
2. Temporarily set the siren housing over the siren mechanism on the mounting plate.
Center the housing over the mechanism.
3. Using the housing and the aluminum clips as a template, drill three 1/4-inch holes
approximately equidistant around the circumference of the housing. Lift the housing
off the siren. It will be reinstalled later.
4. Mount the siren/base plate assembly on the mounting surface using lag bolts or
nuts and bolts as appropriate. Do NOT replace the housing on the siren. It will be
replaced later. If the siren is mounted directly on a roof (without a platform or weight
distribution mat), be sure to install waterproof joints where the mounting bolts pass
through the roof so that water does not enter the building.
5. Install the RC2W Motor Starter, fused disconnect switch, and other control
devices as close as is practical to the siren following local electrical codes and
NEC recommendations. If the siren is installed on the roof of a building, it may be
desirable to install the RC2W and other control devices inside the building. The unit
must be installed vertically to operate correctly. (See Figure 4.)

16
Installation
Models 2-120 and 2-240
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Figure 4 Typical Model 2 Platform Mount
""

17
Installation
Description, Specications, Installation, Operation, and Service Manual
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Electrical Connections
NOTE: For the FC and FCTB controller connections see their installation manuals:
255294 and 255326.
Electrocution or severe personal injury can occur when making electrical
connections, drilling holes, or lifting equipment. Therefore, installation should
be performed by experienced electricians in accordance with national and
local electrical codes and ordinances, including any state or local noise control
ordinances
The power and control circuitry of a typical Model 2 installation is shown in Figures 5
and 6. The schematic diagram of the Model RC2W Motor Starter is also shown in the
gures.
The RC2W Motor Starter is provided with various size knockout holes. Some of the
knockouts can accommodate 1/2-inch conduit ttings, others can accept 3/4-inch conduit
ttings, and still others can accommodate 1-inch conduit ttings. These various sized
knockout holes are provided because electrical wiring requirements are frequently
unpredictable. The diameter of the conduit required for the installation depends on the
AWG size of the wiring used, the type of insulation on the wiring, and local electrical
codes. Therefore, be sure that the size of the conduit selected meets the requirements of
the installation.
Figure 5 Contactor Wiring for Model 2 using 120 Vac
DISCONNECT
SWITCH
(FUSED)
L1
NL1 N3
HEATER
X2
T1 T2
2
V
m
W
SIREN MOTOR
ROT.\BLOWER
CONTACTOR(S)
SPARE N.C.
SPARE
110/220VAC
FC board
JP21 JP22
JP10
FUNC#4
FUNC#3
FUNC#2
FUNC#1
K101 MOTOR
STARTER
OVERLOAD
RELAY
REMOTE INPUTS
JUMPER WIRE
MODEL 2 USING 120VAC

18
Installation
Models 2-120 and 2-240
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Figure 6 Contactor Wiring for Model 2 using 240 Vac
DISCONNECT
SWITCH
(FUSED)
L1
L2 L1 L23
HEATER
X2
T1 T2
2
V
m
W
SIREN MOTOR
ROT.\BLOWER
CONTACTOR(S)
SPARE N.C.
SPARE
110/220VAC
FC board
JP21 JP22
JP10
FUNC#4
FUNC#3
FUNC#2
FUNC#1
K101 MOTOR
STARTER
OVERLOAD
RELAY
REMOTE INPUTS
JUMPER WIRE
MODEL 2 USING 240VAC
To connect the motor starter and siren to the power source and control circuitry: (See
Figures 5 and 6.)
NOTE: For wiring, see the FC, FCH, and FCU Models manual.
1. Install conduit between the RC2W and the electrical leads on the side of the siren
motor.
2. Install conduit between the RC2W and the disconnect switch.
3. Install conduit between the disconnect switch and the electrical power source. If the
siren is installed on a utility pole, add an entrance cap to the end of the conduit as
shown in Figure 3.
4. Route two wires of the proper size from T1 and T2 in the RC2W through the conduit
to the siren motor leads.
5. Route two wires of the proper size from L1 and L2 through the conduit to the power
disconnect switch.
6. Route two wires of the proper size from the disconnect switch to the power source.
7. Connect the FC Controller to terminals L1 and 3 in the motor starter. See Figures 5
and 6.
8. Replace the housing on the siren.
9. As a safety precaution to protect both personnel and equipment, it is highly
recommended that the siren and all control devices be solidly connected to an earth
ground. If the siren is installed on a building, ground the system to a metallic object

19
Circuit Description
Description, Specications, Installation, Operation, and Service Manual
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
known to be grounded. For pole mounted installations, drive a metal rod or bar at
least two feet (61 cm) into the ground, or as close as practical to the base of the pole.
For maximum protection, use a separate, continuous 10 AWG or larger wire from the
siren frame to ground and the cabinet of each control device to ground.
Pre-operation Checkout
After the siren has been completely installed, perform the following checks before putting
the siren into service.
The output level of a siren is capable of causing severe hearing discomfort
or permanent hearing damage. Therefore, ALWAYS wear hearing protection
when performing tests or maintenance on the siren.
• Make sure that all air intakes and sound outlets are not obstructed.
• For local test activation see the FC, FCH, and FCU Models manual part number
255294.
• Check the operation of the control circuitry by initiating one or more signals from the
FC Controller.
After the installation is complete and it has been established that the siren is operating
properly, Federal Signal recommends that all control devices be padlocked to discourage
tampering and vandalism.
Circuit Description
The Model RC2W is used to operate a Model 2 Siren.
The RC2W is a motor starter that switches the power to the Model 2 siren. The RC2W
requires a siren controller to provide Steady and Wail type siren signals typically used
for warning applications. The siren controller will hold a contact closed to activate the
RC2W for a Steady signal and will cycle the contact open and closed to create a Wail
signal. The RC2W also provides overload protection for the siren motor.
As shown in Figures 5 and 6, the motor starter includes an overload relay. The relay
protects the motor starter and the motor in the event that excess current is drawn. The
overload relay is activated when there is sufcient current through one or more of its
heaters to cause the heater(s) to expand enough to open the relay contacts. The opening
of the relay contacts opens the motor starter control circuit. As a result, the motor starter
de-energizes, protecting the circuit against damage. After the motor starter de-energizes,
the relay contacts reset automatically when the heater(s) cools sufciently. The overload
relay can also be reset manually after approximately one minute.

20
Service and Maintenance
Models 2-120 and 2-240
Federal Signal www.fedsig.com
Service and Maintenance
Service or maintenance should be performed by qualied personnel familiar
with the siren, associated controls, and power sources being used.
The siren has moving parts and high operating currents that could cause
severe personal injury, electrocution, or death. Before servicing or maintaining,
ensure that remote activation cannot occur and disconnect power to the siren
and its controls.
Testing and Inspecting the Siren
Test the siren for proper operation at least once a month. A daily test at noon, curfew, or
other selected time is preferred. This not only enhances the usefulness of the siren, but
also instills public condence in the reliability of the warning system.
In order to minimize the possibility of siren failure, inspection and maintenance at regular
intervals is desirable. Therefore, it is recommended to perform the following procedures
at least once a year. However, it may be necessary to increase the frequency of this
procedure if the siren is used frequently or if it is used in an extreme climate.
Inspecting the Motor Brushes
To inspect the motor brushes:
1. Remove the housing and inspect the motor brushes. Replace the brushes if necessary.
2. Inspect all electrical and mechanical connections. Make sure that all fasteners are
properly tightened.
3. Inspect the siren installation to be sure that it is vertically oriented. Take corrective
action if a pole mounted installation is more than 5 degrees from vertical or a roof or
at surface mount is more than 10 degrees from vertical to prevent lubrication losses
and excessive motor bearing wear.
4. Examine all painted surfaces. Repaint as necessary.
Corrective Maintenance
Troubleshooting
The Troubleshooting Table (Table 5) is provided to assist repair personnel when
troubleshooting a siren malfunction. This section also includes diagrams that may be
helpful if the siren or control devices need the be repaired.
Moving parts could cause severe cuts or amputation. DO NOT rotate the
commutator by sticking your ngers in the stator ports and pushing on any
part of the rotor.