Which type of wire is allowed as a substitution for general purpose fire alarm cable?

The correct answer is based on the requirements for fire alarm systems, which have specific standards for the types of cable that can be used. General purpose fire alarm cable is designed to meet certain criteria for fire resistance and safety.

CM (Communications Multistandard) cable can be used as a substitution for general purpose fire alarm cable because it is suitable for use in applications that require a lower degree of fire resistance than fire alarm cables. While CM cables are not specifically designed for fire alarms, they can be acceptable in certain situations where the fire alarm system is within a protected environment or where the risk is deemed lower.

Meanwhile, F.P.L.P (Fire Power Limited Plenum) and F.P.L.R (Fire Power Limited Rise) cables are specifically designed for use in fire alarm systems and are made to meet stricter fire-resistance criteria. Their use is typically restricted to situations where the expected fire performance must be at a higher standard than that provided by general-purpose cables. Therefore, these options would not serve as substitutes for fire alarm cables in contexts where general purpose fire alarm cable is specified.

In summary, CM cables may be permissible under certain conditions, making it the correct substitution option.