Apollo XP95 Mini Switch Monitor, Loop‑Powered DIN‑Rail, EN54‑17/18, 55000-760APO

Introduction to the Apollo XP95 Mini Switch Monitor and its key features

The Apollo 55000-760APO, marketed as the Apollo XP95 Mini Switch Monitor, is a compact, loop-powered accessory designed for addressable fire alarm systems. Built to work on XP95, Discovery and CoreProtocol loops, this DIN-rail mount device monitors volt-free contacts and reports four distinct input states — normal, fault, pre-alarm and alarm — back to a compatible control panel. With EN54-17 and EN54-18 approvals and a form factor tailored for tight spaces, the 55000-760APO is intended for installers and specifiers who need reliable, standards-compliant input monitoring in restrictive installations.

Detailed description: specifications and benefits

The 55000-760APO is small but feature-rich. Key technical specifications include:

• Manufacturer / Part:Apollo 55000-760APO
• Protocol compatibility:XP95, Discovery, CoreProtocol (5–9 Vpp signalling)
• Supply voltage:17–28 V DC (nominal loop 28 V DC)
• Quiescent current:Approximately 0.2 mA typical with EOL fitted; LED states draw additional current (refer to the official datasheet for exact figures)
• Input monitored:Single-pair, single-pole volt-free contact(s)
• Input states:Normal, Fault, Pre-alarm, Alarm; supports priority (interrupt) and non-priority modes
• Mounting:35 mm DIN-rail or inside small enclosures / manual call point housings
• Dimensions:Approx. 39 × 39 × 20 mm;Weight:Approx. 30 g
• Operating temperature:−20 °C to +60 °C
• Material / colour:White flame-retardant polycarbonate
• Certifications:EN54-17, EN54-18; CPR; LPCB; VdS (see datasheet for regional approvals)

Benefits that flow from these specifications include:

• Small footprint:Its compact dimensions and DIN-rail form factor make it ideal where panel or enclosure space is limited, for example inside manual call point housings or small junction boxes.
• Standards compliance:EN54-17 and EN54-18 approvals mean the device meets stringent European standards for loop interface and short-circuit isolation, which simplifies approval and inspection processes in regulated installations.
• Flexible operation:The ability to report pre-alarm, alarm and fault states — plus selectable priority (interrupt) or non-priority operation — gives system designers options for how inputs affect the overall system behaviour.
• Loop-powered reliability:Because the unit is loop-powered, it requires no separate power supply, reducing wiring complexity and installation cost.
• Clear status indication:A visible LED provides quick local verification of device status during commissioning and maintenance.

Use cases and scenarios where the product excels

The Apollo XP95 Mini Switch Monitor is especially well suited to a range of real-world scenarios where space, compliance and straightforward monitoring are primary concerns. Typical applications include:

• Retrofit projects:When upgrading conventional systems to addressable loops, the mini switch monitor makes it simple to bring existing volt-free contacts (door contacts, pump contacts, valve interlocks) into the addressable loop without large enclosures or extra power supplies.
• Small enclosures and call points:Its compact size allows mounting inside manual call point housings or compact cabinets where a full-sized module would not fit.
• Plant and machinery monitoring:Monitoring safety interlocks or faults on plant equipment in noisy environments is straightforward with a loop-compatible device that reports both pre-alarm/fault and alarm states.
• Remote input monitoring:Single-pair volt-free contacts from remote sensors, tamper switches or external systems can be monitored on the addressable loop with minimal wiring.
• Compliance-sensitive environments:Buildings that require EN54-certified interfaces (commercial buildings, schools, hospitals) benefit from the recognised approvals on this unit.

Comparisons with similar products in the market

When comparing the Apollo 55000-760APO to other input monitoring devices, several differentiators stand out:

• Form factor:Many traditional interface modules are designed for surface or back-box mounting and can be bulkier. The 55000-760APO’s DIN-rail and ultra-compact dimensions make it a better choice where space is at a premium.
• Loop-powered vs powered modules:Some competing modules require separate 24 V supplies or local power, which increases installation complexity. The loop-powered nature of the Apollo unit reduces wiring and points of failure.
• Standards and approvals:EN54-17/18 certification is a significant advantage over non-certified modules, particularly in the EU and other regions where EN54 acceptance is required for certain projects.
• Feature set:The ability to report pre-alarm plus configurable priority (interrupt) or non-priority operation gives this unit operational flexibility that may not be present in simpler input devices that only provide a binary alarm indication.
• Compatibility:Full compatibility with XP95 and Discovery loops makes it a natural fit for sites already using Apollo devices, reducing the risk of integration issues compared with generic third-party modules.

That said, buyers should consider project-specific needs: if multiple inputs per module are required or analogue outputs are needed, alternate multi-channel or analogue interface modules may be more appropriate. For singular volt-free contact monitoring in confined spaces, the XP95 mini switch monitor is very competitive.

Customer feedback and installer perspectives

Direct customer reviews for this specific part may be limited in public marketplaces, but installer feedback and case examples typically highlight the following themes:

• Space savings:Installers appreciate the ability to mount the device inside call point housings or on DIN-rail segments in small enclosures, avoiding larger junction boxes.
• Ease of commissioning:The visible status LED and simple loop addressing procedures (when used with compatible panels) are noted as time-savers on site.
• Reliability:Positive comments frequently reference the robustness of Apollo’s addressable devices and the benefit of EN54 approvals in passing inspections.

Sample anonymised feedback (illustrative, not direct endorsements):

• “The mini switch monitor saved space in a retrofit where we had to mount inside existing call point housings — commissioning was straightforward and the control panel accepted the device without issue.” — site installer
• “Good product for simple volt-free contact monitoring; EN54 approvals made it easier to specify for a hospital project.” — fire systems contractor

Installation notes, limitations and recommended best practice

Important considerations for designers and installers include:

• Refer to the datasheet:Exact figures for quiescent current per LED state, required end-of-line resistor, maximum cable loop resistance and power-up surge/time are provided in Apollo’s official documentation and must be used during design.
• Qualified installation:Installation and commissioning should be carried out by a qualified fire systems installer to ensure compliance with local regulations and approvals.
• Panel compatibility:Verify control panel compatibility and addressing procedures before installation — although the device supports XP95, Discovery and CoreProtocol, some panels require specific software steps.
• Environmental limits:Operate within the stated temperature range (−20 °C to +60 °C) and ensure the enclosure provides appropriate protection for the environment.

Conclusion: Why the Apollo 55000-760APO is a great choice

The Apollo XP95 Mini Switch Monitor (55000-760APO) offers a compelling combination of compact size, loop-powered simplicity and EN54-17/18 approvals, making it an excellent option where space is constrained and standards compliance matters. Its ability to report multiple input states, support priority or non-priority modes, and integrate seamlessly with XP95/Discovery/CoreProtocol loops means it fits a wide range of retrofit and new-build scenarios. For projects requiring reliable volt-free contact monitoring without adding extra power supplies or large enclosures, this Apollo unit delivers practical benefits for installers and end users alike. With a suggested price of approximately 44.15 (check with authorised distributors for current pricing and availability), it is positioned as a cost-effective, standards-compliant accessory for addressable fire systems.

Part number:55000-760APO. For final design, exact installation data and approved usage, always consult Apollo’s datasheet and engage a qualified fire systems installer.