A 1950s-1970s era telephone based alarm system custom built by the Phoenix, Arizona  Fire Department.  This innovative system includes a switchboard, a control panel for over 100 Gamewell boxes. two microfiche map readers, two dispatching consoles, several radios, time stamps, a tape recording system, and a large illuminated status map board that shows which stations are either on a run, out of service, or available.  The system does not operate, but has been equipped with lights to allow its interpretation by visitors.

An operating  1980s era Protectowire operating fire alarm exhibit.  Protectowire systems protect large schools, bridges, materials handling plants, power plants, and other organizations with large expanses of vulnerable materials, often in a hostile environment.  Protectowire cables are strung over thousands of feet.  When a fire activates a portion of the cable, it signals a control console which registers which cable is in alarm and the distance in feet from the console.  Firefighters can then be dispatched to the fire.  Our exhibit was donated and installed by Protectowire.  Visitors can operate it to see how its works.