Appropriate choice of alarm system technologies: EPRI research

Abstract

The Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) has carried out a program of research over the last ten years on the improvement of nuclear plant control room alarm systems. Newer technologies have become available including microprocessor-based annunciators that offer new possibilities for upgrading control room alarm systems. The results of a formal test program that evaluated alternate alarm systems with both conventional and computer-driven displays are summarized, and the implications of the results with respect to choices in a system upgrade are discussed. The promises and problems of newer systems are also discussed, and future directions for the alarm research program are described.<>