1. What is the BSIA 12-hour Battery Calculation?

The BSIA (British Security Industry Association) 12-hour battery calculation determines the required battery capacity (in ampere-hours) needed to power a security system for 12 hours based on its current draw.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the BSIA equation:

Where:

• BSIA Load A — Current draw of the security system in amperes
• 12 hours — Standard backup duration requirement

Explanation: The equation calculates the total charge (in ampere-hours) needed to maintain the specified current for 12 hours.

3. Importance of Battery Capacity Calculation

Details: Proper battery sizing ensures security systems remain operational during power outages, meeting BSIA standards for alarm system backup power.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the current draw of your security system in amperes. The value must be greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is 12 hours used in the calculation?
A: BSIA standards typically require alarm systems to have 12 hours of backup power capacity.

Q2: Should I add any safety margin to the calculated value?
A: Yes, it's recommended to add 20-25% to the calculated capacity to account for battery aging and temperature effects.

Q3: How do I measure the BSIA Load A?
A: Measure the current draw of your security system using a multimeter when the system is in its normal operating state.

Q4: Does this calculation apply to all battery types?
A: The calculation provides the required capacity in Ah, which can be applied to lead-acid, lithium-ion, or other battery chemistries.

Q5: What if my system has intermittent high-current draws?
A: For systems with peak loads, you may need to calculate based on the highest expected current draw rather than average.