Introduction to the Apollo SA4700-103APO
Apollo SA4700-103APOis an addressable mains switching input/output module designed for reliable integration with XP95, Discovery and CoreProtocol fire panels. Compact and robust, it provides two monitored volt‑free inputs plus a volt‑free changeover relay capable of switching mains loads up to 250 VAC. Certified to EN54‑17 and EN54‑18, the SA4700-103APO is tailored for applications where safe, standards‑compliant switching and clear loop supervision are essential.
- Addressable across range 1–254, compatible with XP95, Discovery and CoreProtocol.
- Two monitored volt‑free single‑pole inputs for external contacts or sensors.
- Volt‑free changeover relay rated 5 A at 30 V dc or 250 V ac for mains switching.
- Built‑in controllable short‑circuit isolator for loop protection and improved fault tolerance.
- Nine pre‑configured operating modes, including two‑input failsafe mode to meet BS 7273‑4 requirements.
- EN54‑17 and EN54‑18 certified with additional approvals from LPCB and VdS.
- Semi‑flush or surface mounting with ergonomic terminal layout for faster wiring.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The SA4700-103APO balances compact hardware with powerful functionality. Below are the notable specifications and the practical benefits they deliver in real installations.
- Model:SA4700-103APO — an intelligent mains switching I/O module designed for addressable fire alarm systems.
- Compatibility:Works natively with XP95, Discovery and CoreProtocol panels, allowing straightforward integration into many existing fire alarm networks.
- Address range:1–254 — enabling flexible placement across loops and straightforward addressing during commissioning.
- Inputs:Two monitored volt‑free single‑pole contacts. Benefit: allows the panel to supervise the status of external devices such as door contacts, manual call points or auxiliary sensors while meeting supervision requirements.
- Relay output:Voltage‑free changeover relay rated at 5 A (30 V dc) or 5 A (250 V ac). Benefit: suitable for a wide range of mains and low‑voltage loads common in fire and building systems — for example, control of fire dampers, extraction fans, or signalling circuits (within the rating).
- Short‑circuit isolator:Controllable, built‑in isolator for the loop. Benefit: improves system resilience by isolating faults automatically or under control, limiting the impact of wiring short circuits and helping maintain service on the remainder of the loop.
- Operating modes:Nine pre‑configured modes, including a two‑input failsafe mode compliant with BS 7273‑4. Benefit: simplifies configuration for common fire system logic, reduces commissioning time and supports regulatory compliance for life‑safety functions.
- Operating temperature:−40 °C to +70 °C — suitable for a wide range of indoor environments.
- Humidity:0% to 95% RH (non‑condensing) — tolerant of variable site conditions.
- IP rating:IP54 — provides protection against dust ingress and splashing water in indoor locations.
- Dimensions:60 mm × 150 mm × 90 mm;Weight:approx. 301 g. Benefit: compact footprint with ergonomic terminals eases installation in tight spaces.
- Certified to EN54‑17 and EN54‑18 for short‑circuit and addressable line protection and interface devices. Benefit: recognized compliance for use in certified fire detection and alarm systems.
- Additional approvals such as LPCB and VdS are listed in Apollo documentation. Benefit: broader acceptance across regions that reference these approval bodies.
Use cases and scenarios where the SA4700-103APO excels
The SA4700-103APO is particularly valuable wherever conventional volt‑free devices must be integrated into an addressable fire alarm system, or where the fire panel must directly control mains‑powered equipment in a standards‑compliant way. Typical use cases include:
- Integration of conventional contacts:Bring door contacts, waterflow switches, or auxiliary sensors into an addressable loop without rewiring the building to a fully addressable sensor — preserving existing devices while upgrading system supervision.
- Control of mains loads:Switch fans, dampers, door releases or other mains devices under fire panel control, within the relay rating. Useful in smoke control, staged ventilation shutdown, and controlled egress scenarios.
- Failsafe signalling and interlocks:Use two‑input failsafe mode to meet BS 7273‑4 logic requirements for certain interlock or release functions where dual confirmation is required before action.
- Distributed switching in large networks:Deploy multiple modules across loops to reduce central wiring complexity. The built‑in short‑circuit isolator improves fault tolerance and keeps remote sections operational if a fault occurs elsewhere on the loop.
- Interfaces for building automation:Provide a certified interface between the fire system and building management systems or third‑party devices where EN54‑certified isolation and supervision are required.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When selecting an addressable I/O module, installers and specifiers should consider functionality, certifications, reliability and ease of installation. Here are some points of comparison to help place the SA4700-103APO in context.
- Wiring and supervision:Conventional relay panels often require point‑to‑point wiring and provide limited supervision. The SA4700-103APO, being addressable, uses loop wiring and supports supervised inputs plus loop isolation, reducing wiring cost and improving fault detection.
- Scalability:Addressable modules are easier to scale across multiple floors or zones — each device carries its own address and status — whereas conventional systems become wiring‑heavy as the site grows.
- EN54‑17/18 certification:Not every I/O module is EN54‑certified. For projects that require EN54 compliance, the SA4700-103APO offers a clear advantage.
- Built‑in isolator:The controllable short‑circuit isolator reduces the need for separate isolation devices and improves loop resilience compared with modules that lack isolation.
- Pre‑configured modes:Nine operating modes (including BS 7273‑4 failsafe) make commissioning faster compared with less flexible devices that require custom programming for common fire logic.
Customer feedback and reviews
Direct customer testimonials for the SA4700-103APO are limited in publicly available sources, but the expected user feedback aligns with the module's strengths:
- Installers commonly appreciate the compact footprint and clear terminal layout, which speed up on‑site wiring and reduce installation errors.
- Specifiers and system integrators value the EN54 certification and built‑in isolator because they simplify compliance and improve system resilience.
- Facilities managers typically report confidence in the module's ability to integrate legacy volt‑free devices into a modern addressable loop without extensive rework.
Where formal reviews are required for procurement, request case studies or reference installations from your Apollo distributor or installer to see the module in comparable real‑world deployments.
Installation, safety and best practices
Because the SA4700-103APO switches mains voltages, it must be installed and maintained by suitably qualified personnel in accordance with local electrical and fire safety regulations. Key best practices include:
- Follow Apollo's datasheet and installation guide for wiring diagrams, LED status interpretation and electrical ratings.
- Use the module within its relay ratings (5 A at 250 VAC) and environmental limits to avoid overheating or premature failure.
- Test the configured modes and short‑circuit isolation response during commissioning and as part of routine maintenance.
- Document addressing and wiring for future maintenance and audits.
Conclusion: why the SA4700-103APO is a strong choice
For projects that require a compact, certified and flexible interface between conventional volt‑free devices and modern addressable fire panels, theApollo SA4700-103APOoffers a compelling combination of features. Its EN54‑17/18 certification, built‑in controllable isolator, two supervised inputs and mains‑capable volt‑free changeover relay make it suitable for a wide range of fire‑system switching and monitoring tasks. Pre‑configured operating modes and proven compatibility with XP95, Discovery and CoreProtocol panels reduce commissioning time and support compliance with life‑safety standards.
Whether you are upgrading legacy systems, simplifying distributed switching, or creating an EN54‑compliant interface for building automation, the SA4700-103APO provides dependable performance in a small footprint. For precise pricing, installation guidance and a list of regional approvals, consult your Apollo documentation or authorised distributor. Typical suggested price guidance is around 72.00, though actual prices may vary by supplier and region.
