top of page

8 Cloud-Based Fire System Design Software for Modern Engineers

  • Writer: harris allex
    harris allex
  • Oct 9
  • 12 min read

In the rapidly advancing world of building safety, fire alarm system design has become more complex, data-driven, and collaborative than ever before. Modern engineers are no longer limited to static, desktop-based CAD tools. Instead, they are embracing cloud-based fire system design software that enables real-time collaboration, automated compliance, and seamless integration with AV system integration software and other building management platforms.


The demand for smarter, more efficient, and code-compliant fire alarm system design is at an all-time high. Whether you’re designing a high-rise, a sprawling campus, or a mission-critical facility, the right software can make the difference between a smooth project and costly delays. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the top 8 cloud-based fire system design software solutions for 2025, with a special focus on why XTEN-AV is the best FireCAD alternative for modern engineers.


Throughout this blog, we’ll use the keyword fire alarm system design to help you discover the best tools, strategies, and best practices for your next project. Let’s dive in!


ree

Why Cloud-Based Fire System Design Software Matters

The Digital Transformation of Fire Protection Engineering


The shift from traditional, on-premises tools tocloud-based fire system design softwareis revolutionizing the industry. Here’s why this transformation is so important for modern engineers:


  • Real-Time Collaboration: Cloud platforms allow multiple stakeholders—designers, engineers, installers, and compliance officers—to work together on the same project, regardless of location. This real-time collaboration reduces errors, accelerates project timelines, and ensures everyone is working from the latest data

  • Centralized Data Management: All project files, compliance documents, and system configurations are securely stored in the cloud. This centralization makes data easily accessible, tamper-proof for audits, and simplifies regulatory reporting

  • Automatic Updates and Scalability: Cloud-based fire alarm design tools are always up-to-date with the latest features, security patches, and code libraries. They scale effortlessly as organizations grow or as project complexity increases, eliminating the need for manual software updates or hardware upgrades

  • Remote Monitoring and Management: Facility managers and engineers can monitor fire alarm systems, receive alerts, and manage maintenance tasks from anywhere. This capability improves response times and operational efficiency, especially for distributed or multi-site facilities

  • Integration with Smart Building Systems: Cloud platforms facilitate seamless integration with AV system integration software, building management systems (BMS), and IoT devices. This enables coordinated emergency responses and holistic building safety strategies

  • Enhanced Security: Modern cloud solutions employ robust encryption, access controls, and regular backups, often surpassing the security of traditional on-premises systems

    .

Key Benefits for Modern Engineers

  • Improved Accuracy and Compliance: Automated code checks (e.g., NFPA 72, EN 54, BS 5839) ensure designs meet the latest standards and reduce the risk of failed inspections or legal liabilities

  • Increased Efficiency: Automated device placement, wiring diagrams, and calculations (such as battery sizing and voltage drop) save hours of manual work and minimize errors

  • Enhanced Collaboration: Real-time teamwork between designers, installers, and clients is crucial for large or distributed projects. Version control and instant updates ensure all stakeholders are aligned

  • Seamless Integration: Modern fire alarm CAD software supports integration with AV, security, and building management systems, enabling holistic safety solutions and supporting smart building initiatives

  • Automated Documentation: Instantly generate professional, branded proposals, compliance reports, and as-built documentation for clients and authorities, streamlining the handover and approval process

  • Scalability and Flexibility: Cloud-based tools support projects of all sizes, from small commercial buildings to large, multi-site facilities

  • Lower IT Overhead: No need for on-premises servers or manual software management


In summary: Cloud-based fire system design software is not just a productivity booster—it is a critical enabler of safety, compliance, and business success for modern engineers


Key Features Modern Engineers Need in Fire Alarm System Design Software

When selecting the best fire alarm system design software, modern engineers should look for the following features:


  • Cloud-Based Colla

  • boration: Real-time, multi-user editing and version control.

  • Automated Compliance Checks: Built-in support for NFPA 72, EN 54, and other standards.

  • Extensive Device Libraries: Access to up-to-date product databases and symbol libraries.

  • Design Automation: AI-powered tools for device placement, wiring, riser diagrams, and calculations.

  • Proposal and Documentation Generation: Automated creation of branded, client-ready proposals and compliance reports.

  • Integration with AV System Integration Software: Seamless workflows for AV and fire alarm system design.

  • BIM and CAD Compatibility: Support for BIM (Building Information Modeling) and CAD file formats.

  • Remote Access and Mobile Support: Ability to work from any device, anywhere.

  • Security and Data Protection: Robust encryption, access controls, and audit trails.

  • Scalability: Support for projects of all sizes and complexities.


Top 8 Cloud-Based Fire System Design Software Solutions


1. XTEN-AV: The Best FireCAD Alternative


Overview


XTEN-AV is a cloud-based, AI-powered platform that redefines fire alarm system design and AV system integration. It is the only solution that combines design automation, real-time collaboration, proposal generation, and project management in a single, unified environment.


Key Features of XTEN-AV


  • Massive, Real-Time Product Library & SKUs: Access to over 1.5 million products and 5,200+ brands, with regularly updated manufacturer specs (dimensions, power, connectors, etc.). This ensures you always use the correct devices, avoid discontinued parts, and reduce manual entry

  • Design Automation / Drawing Generation: Generate line schematics, signal flow diagrams, rack layouts, and drawings automatically or semi-automatically. Upload a BOM to auto-generate drawings or feed in floorplans for instant layouts

  • AI-Assisted Features: The XAVIA AI agent assists with generating BOMs, suggesting devices, checking for inconsistencies, and converting BOMs into drawings. Features like Search Sense learn from your previous choices to show relevant products faster

  • All-in-One Workflow: Integrates design, documentation, proposal generation, project management, version control, and team collaboration. No need for separate tools

  • Cloud-Based Collaboration & Version Control: Multiple users can work on the same project, with real-time syncing, version tracking, and rollback capabilities. Cloud storage of assets and templates ensures everyone is always up to date

  • Proposal & Documentation Automation: Built-in templates, proposal generators, branded documents, scope of work, and reports. Go from design to proposal in much less time

  • Transparent, AV-Specific Pricing & Focused Toolset: Subscription plans are tailored for AV and system integration professionals, avoiding unnecessary modules and reducing training complexity

  • AV & Fire Alarm Synergy / Cross-Discipline Use: XTEN-AV’s workflows for device placement, cable runs, schematics, proposal, and documentation translate seamlessly to fire alarm and life safety system design

    .

Why XTEN-AV is the Best FireCAD Alternative

  • Speed & Efficiency: Automates more of the workflow (device placement, drawings, BOM, proposals) than FireCAD, reducing manual work and tool switching

  • Unified Workflow: Seamless chain from design to proposal to execution, eliminating data re-entry and mismatches

  • Cost & Overhead Reduction: Focused pricing, no need for AutoCAD licenses, and cloud collaboration save time and money

  • Collaboration & Modern Working Styles: Real-time, multi-user editing, version control, and cloud storage make it ideal for distributed or hybrid teams

  • Better for AV + Fire Alarm Mixed Work: Handle both AV systems and fire alarm/life safety in one environment, with shared device libraries and cross-system workflows

    .

Technical Specifications

Feature

Details

Deployment

Cloud-based (SaaS)

AI Engine

XAVIA (AI agent for design, BOM, and proposal automation)

Product Database

1.5M+ AV and fire alarm products

Drawing Tool

X-DRAW (AV/fire alarm-specific, 2D/3D, cable labeling, templates)

Mobile Support

iOS and Android app for field access

Security

Digital signatures, cloud security protocols

Pricing

$104–$169/user/month (as of 2025)

Support

Live chat, onboarding, knowledge base


User Experience


  • Ease of Use: Intuitive interface, quick learning curve, and extensive template library.

  • Customization: High degree of customization for templates, drawings, and workflows.

  • Efficiency: Significant time savings in design, proposal generation, and project management.

  • All-in-One Solution: Eliminates the need for multiple separate tools, reducing costs and complexity

    .

Real-World Application


A major university used XTEN-AV to design and document a campus-wide mass notification system, integrating fire alarm, PA, and digital signage. The cloud platform enabled seamless coordination between the AV and fire protection teams, resulting in faster approvals and reduced rework


2. FireCAD


Overview


FireCAD is a specialized fire alarm system design software built on the AutoCAD OEM platform. It is widely used for creating code-compliant fire alarm layouts, automating device placement, wiring diagrams, riser layouts, and performing battery/circuit calculations.


Key Features

  • AutoCAD Integration: Seamless use as a standalone tool or as an AutoCAD add-in, supporting DWG templates.

  • Automated Calculations: Riser, wiring, and battery calculations are automated, reducing manual errors.

  • Compliance Checks: Built-in support for NFPA 72 and other standards ensures code-compliant designs.

  • Documentation: Fast drafting and instant generation of compliance documentation.

  • Cloud Collaboration: Enables real-time teamwork and version control for distributed teams.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Reduces repetitive drafting time

Requires AutoCAD (additional cost)

High accuracy and compliance

Lacks full cloud-based collaboration

Familiar for AutoCAD users

Traditional interface and workflow


Real-World Application


A multinational hotel chain used FireCAD to design fire sprinkler systems for a new property in Dubai. The software’s ability to handle local codes and generate hydraulic calculations enabled the design team to quickly iterate and optimize the system, ensuring both compliance and cost-effectiveness.


3. Bosch Safety Systems Designer (SSD)


Overview


Bosch SSDis a free AutoCAD plugin tailored for Bosch EN 54 fire detection systems, with growing support for BIM and cloud-based workflows.


Key Features


  • Product Support: Full support for Bosch EN 54 fire alarm products.

  • Live Configuration Checks: Real-time validation of system configurations.

  • Auto-Generated BOMs: Instantly creates bills of materials, drawings, and reports.

  • Device Library: 150+ device symbols for rapid design.

  • BIM Support: Exports BIM files in Autodesk Revit format for advanced project integration.


Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Free to use for Bosch hardware

Limited to Bosch products

Minimal learning curve for Bosch users

Lacks full cloud collaboration

Strong compliance and documentation



Real-World Application

An international airport deployed Bosch SSD to manage fire detection and voice evacuation across multiple terminals. The cloud-based system provided centralized monitoring and rapid response capabilities.


4. AlarmCAD


Overview


AlarmCAD is focused on calculation-heavy, compliance-focused fire alarm system design, with strong automation for calculations and documentation.

Key Features

  • Automated Calculations: Handles battery sizing, voltage drop, and circuit calculations.

  • 2D/3D Drawing Tools: Compatible with AutoCAD for both 2D and 3D design.

  • Automated BOMs: Instantly generates bills of materials and installation cut sheets.

  • Cloud Capabilities: Supports cloud-based collaboration and documentation.


Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Automates complex calculations

Traditional software, not fully cloud

Supports 2D/3D design

Performance issues on large projects

Good for compliance-heavy projects

Higher cost


5. Revit (Autodesk)


Overview


Revit is a BIM-centric platform ideal for multidisciplinary projects and 3D modeling, supporting architectural, MEP, and fire protection design in a unified environment.


Key Features


  • BIM Integration: Full Building Information Modeling (BIM) support.

  • 3D Modeling: Advanced 3D modeling and clash detection for coordinated design.

  • Device Placement: Streamlined placement and routing of fire alarm devices.

  • Collaboration: Cloud-based collaboration across multiple disciplines.


Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Full BIM integration

Steeper learning curve

Supports multidisciplinary projects

Not fire-alarm-specific out of the box

Advanced 3D modeling

Subscription-based


6. AutoSPRINK


Overview


AutoSPRINK is primarily known for fire sprinkler system design but also supports fire alarm integration, with advanced BIM and 3D design tools.


Key Features

  • 3D Modeling: Detailed modeling of fire protection systems, including alarms and sprinklers.

  • Hydraulic Calculations: Automated, code-compliant hydraulic calculations.

  • Device Placement: Integrated fire alarm device placement within sprinkler layouts.

  • Reporting: Detailed reporting and documentation for compliance and installation.

  • Cloud Collaboration: Supports cloud-based workflows for distributed teams.


Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Excellent for sprinkler/alarm integration

More complex and expensive

Strong visualization and modeling

Cloud features still expanding


7. SmartDraw


Overview


SmartDrawis best for quick, simple fire alarm layouts and documentation, with a user-friendly, drag-and-drop interface.


Key Features

  • Templates: Pre-built templates for fire alarm layouts.

  • Drag-and-Drop Interface: Minimal learning curve.

  • Integration: Works with Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.

  • Cloud-Based: Enables real-time collaboration and sharing.


Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Easy to use, quick layouts

Not as powerful for complex projects

Cloud-based collaboration

Limited automation and compliance tools


8. STI Firestop Design Software


Overview


STI Firestop Design Softwaresupports both firestop and fire alarm system design, with automated code compliance verification and documentation.


Key Features

  • Integration: Supports both firestop and fire alarm system design.

  • Compliance Checks: Automated code compliance verification.

  • Documentation: Generates detailed submittal documentation for authorities and clients.

  • Cloud-Based: Facilitates remote access and collaboration.


Pros and Cons

Pros

Cons

Free and subscription options

Niche focus on firestop/alarm integration

Automated compliance documentation


AV System Integration Software: The New Frontier in Fire Alarm System Design


What is AV System Integration Software?


AV system integration softwareis designed to seamlessly combine various AV equipment—such as displays, projectors, audio systems, video conferencing tools, and control systems—into a unified, user-friendly environment. The software enables centralized control, automation, and management of all connected devices, ensuring optimal performance and usability.

The Relationship Between AV System Integration and Fire Alarm Systems

  • Unified Building Management and Safety: AV system integration software provides the infrastructure and interfaces needed to connect and control multiple building systems, including fire alarms

  • Communication and Emergency Response: In the event of a fire alarm activation, the AV system can be programmed to display evacuation instructions, broadcast emergency messages, and trigger visual and audio alerts in specific zones

  • Interoperability via Integration Software: Integration software acts as the bridge between AV systems and fire alarm systems, enabling interoperability and remote monitoring

  • Compliance and Best Practices: Integrating AV and fire alarm systems must adhere to strict standards and compliance requirements (such as NFPA 72 and EN 54)

    .

Case Example

A large auditorium or campus where the AV system is integrated with the fire alarm system: When the fire alarm is triggered, the AV system’s control software automatically mutes ongoing presentations, displays evacuation instructions, and overrides all other audio to broadcast evacuation messages


Fire Alarm System Design Standards, Compliance, and Best Practices


Key Standards

  • NFPA 72: The definitive standard in the United States for the installation, performance, testing, inspection, and maintenance of fire alarm systems

  • EN 54: A European standard specifying requirements and laboratory tests for components of fire detection and alarm systems

Compliance Requirements

  • NFPA 72 Compliance: Systems must be designed to meet specific performance criteria, installed according to code, and regularly inspected and tested. Detailed records must be maintained

  • EN 54 Compliance: All system components must be EN 54 certified, with regular functional and sensitivity testing required

Best Practices

  • Comprehensive Risk Assessment: Determine the appropriate type and placement of detectors and notification devices.

  • Redundancy: Design systems with redundancy to ensure continued operation in the event of a component failure.

  • Integration: Integrate fire alarm systems with building management systems (BMS) for enhanced safety and operational efficiency

  • Accessibility: Ensure all manual pull stations and notification devices are accessible to all occupants, including those with disabilities

  • False Alarm Management: Implement strategies to minimize nuisance alarms, such as proper detector selection, placement, and sensitivity adjustments


Case Studies: Real-World Success with Cloud-Based Fire System Design Software


XTEN-AV

A major university used XTEN-AV to design and document a campus-wide mass notification system, integrating fire alarm, PA, and digital signage. The cloud platform enabled seamless coordination between the AV and fire protection teams, resulting in faster approvals and

reduced rework.


FireCAD

A multinational hotel chain used FireCAD to design fire sprinkler systems for a new property in Dubai. The software’s ability to handle local codes and generate hydraulic calculations enabled the design team to quickly iterate and optimize the system, ensuring both compliance and cost-effectiveness.


AlarmSys

A national retail chain implemented AlarmSys to manage fire alarm systems in over 200 stores. The cloud dashboard provided real-time status updates and automated compliance reporting, reducing the risk of missed inspections and fines.


AutoSPRINK

A hospital expansion project used AutoSPRINK to coordinate fire sprinkler design with HVAC and electrical systems. The cloud-based BIM workflow minimized clashes and change orders during construction.


Bosch SSD

An international airport deployed Bosch SSD to manage fire detection and voice evacuation across multiple terminals. The cloud-based system provided centralized monitoring and rapid response capabilities


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)


1. What is fire system design software and what does it do?

Answer:

Fire system design software enables engineers and installers to create, modify, and manage fire alarm and sprinkler system designs. These platforms ensure compliance with industry standards, automate calculations, and streamline documentation for both small and large-scale projects.

2. Is the software compliant with industry standards (NFPA, EN 54, etc.)?

Answer:

Leading fire system design software, such as FireCAD and XTEN-AV, is specifically designed to adhere to NFPA and EN 54 standards, ensuring all designs meet regulatory requirements and pass inspections.

3. Can the software integrate with other design platforms?

Answer:

Most modern fire system design software supports integration with other CAD and BIM platforms, allowing seamless import and export of design files.

4. What are the system requirements and deployment options?

Answer:

Requirements vary by product. Many solutions now offer cloud-based licensing, enabling access from multiple devices, which is ideal for distributed teams and remote work.

5. What types of fire systems can be designed?

Answer:

Comprehensive platforms like FireCAD and XTEN-AV support the design of conventional, addressable, and hybrid fire alarm systems, as well as various sprinkler system types.

6. Is training and customer support available?

Answer:

Vendors typically offer extensive support, including tutorials, user manuals, online help forums, and direct customer service.

7. How are software updates managed?

Answer:

Most solutions feature built-in update mechanisms. Users receive notifications about new updates, which can be downloaded and installed directly within the software interface.

8. Is there a trial version or demo available?

Answer:

Yes, many vendors, including FireCAD and XTEN-AV, offer trial versions so users can evaluate features and usability before committing to a purchase


Conclusion: The Future of Fire Alarm System Design


The landscape offire alarm system designis evolving at a rapid pace, driven by the adoption ofcloud-based fire system design softwareand the integration of AV system integration software. Modern engineers now have access to powerful, collaborative, and automated tools that streamline every aspect of the design, documentation, and compliance process.


XTEN-AVstands out as the best FireCAD alternative, offering unmatched automation, real-time collaboration, and integrated workflows for both AV and fire alarm system design. By embracing these next-generation solutions, engineers can deliver safer, more efficient, and future-ready fire protection systems for any project.


Whether you’re a seasoned fire protection engineer or just starting your journey, investing in the right software is the key to success in today’s complex, compliance-driven world. Explore the top 8 solutions highlighted in this guide, and take your fire alarm system design to the next level.


 
 
 

Comments


bottom of page