Apollo SA4700-102APO Addressable I/O Module — An introduction to the product and its key features
Product:Apollo Intelligent Input/Output Module, Addressable (XP95/Discovery) — SA4700-102APO
The Apollo SA4700-102APO is an addressable input/output (I/O) module designed to interface external volt-free contacts and control relays on modern fire-detection loops. Built to work on XP95, Discovery and CoreProtocol loops, this compact yet robust module offers supervised inputs, voltage-free changeover relay outputs and an integrated single-line loop isolator — all within a single EN54-17 and EN54-18 certified device. With a wide operating temperature range, multiple preconfigured modes and compatibility with major loop protocols, the SA4700-102APO is engineered for reliable performance in commercial and industrial fire-alarm installations.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The SA4700-102APO packs practical engineering into a small footprint. Below are the key specifications and the benefits they deliver in real-world installations.
- Part Number:SA4700-102APO (PP2553 series)
- Protocols:XP95, Discovery, CoreProtocol
- Standards / Approvals:EN54-17, EN54-18; LPCB, VdS, BOSEC, SBSC, FG, CPR
- Supply Voltage:17–35 V DC
- Loop Voltage:5–13 V peak-to-peak
- Quiescent Current:≈ 500 μA @ 24 V DC
- Relay Contact Rating:1 A @ 30 V AC/DC (voltage-free changeover)
- Address Range:1–254
- Preconfigured Modes:Nine modes (including compatibility)
- Indicators:LEDs for poll (green), relay/input (red), fault (yellow)
- Mechanical:approx. 60 × 150 × 90 mm, weight ≈ 244 g
- Environmental:IP52; operating temperature −40 to +70 °C; humidity 0–95% RH (no condensation)
- Mounting:Surface or semi-flush
- Warranty:10 years
- Addressability and protocol support:Compatibility with XP95, Discovery and CoreProtocol ensures the module can be integrated into many popular control panels and fire systems, enabling precise fault and event identification at the device level.
- Supervised inputs and changeover relay:The module monitors normally-open volt-free contacts and provides a voltage-free changeover relay output. This allows the SA4700-102APO to interface with external devices such as door-release circuits, dampers, fans or plant shutdown systems while maintaining supervised status reporting to the fire panel.
- Built-in loop isolator:The controllable single-line loop isolator improves system resilience. In the event of a short circuit, the isolator protects the remainder of the loop so that faults are contained and the rest of the loop continues to operate — reducing single-point failures and simplifying fault diagnosis.
- Compliance and approvals:EN54-17 and EN54-18 certification, along with multiple national approvals, ensures the module meets rigorous European performance and safety standards — essential for commercial and regulated environments.
- Installation flexibility:Compact dimensions, clear LED indicators and ergonomic wiring simplify installation and commissioning. Multiple preconfigured operating modes reduce the need for custom programming in common scenarios.
- Longevity and reliability:Wide operating temperature range, IP52 ingress protection and a 10-year manufacturer warranty contribute to low maintenance and long service life.
Use cases and scenarios where the SA4700-102APO excels
The SA4700-102APO is well suited to a broad range of commercial and industrial applications where reliable supervised interfacing and fault-tolerant loop design are required. Typical use cases include:
- Integration of elevator shutdowns, HVAC interlocks, or fire-door release circuits where supervised control and clear status reporting are required.
- Retrofitting older systems to addressable architectures: the module can provide addressable control of existing volt-free devices without replacing plant equipment.
- Control of ventilation or compartmentation dampers and interlocking with smoke control systems; the module’s relay and supervised input make it suitable for these critical interfaces.
- Loop isolator reduces the impact of cable faults in large open spaces with long wiring runs.
- Reliable, fast identification of input faults and the ability to control redundant systems; EN54 approvals make the module suitable for regulated installations.
- Low quiescent current helps preserve auxiliary supply budgets in systems where many devices are connected.
- Interfaces to plant shutdown logic and emergency stop circuits where an addressable, supervised solution is preferred to ensure traceability and testability.
- Wide temperature tolerance allows use in harsher environments.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When selecting an addressable I/O module, installers typically consider features such as protocol compatibility, approvals, isolator functionality, relay ratings and ease of installation. Below is a high-level comparison of the SA4700-102APO against common alternatives:
- Conventional I/O modules:Traditional non-addressable modules may be less expensive upfront but do not provide device-level status or the same fault isolation. The SA4700-102APO adds precise addressability and a loop isolator, making it preferable for modern, maintainable systems.
- Other Apollo modules:Apollo’s wider range includes modules with varying relay ratings or multi-input options. The SA4700-102APO distinguishes itself with integrated EN54-17/18 compliance and a convenient single-relay changeover configuration suitable for many standard uses.
- Competitor addressable I/O devices (e.g., established brands):Many competitors offer similar feature sets — including supervised inputs and relays — but differences arise in approvals, isolator implementation, address range, and support for specific loop protocols. The SA4700-102APO’s support for XP95, Discovery and CoreProtocol plus multiple national approvals makes it broadly compatible across European and international installations.
- Modules with higher relay ratings or multiple relays:For applications needing higher current switching or multiple isolated relays, specialist modules may be required. The SA4700-102APO’s 1 A @ 30 V rating covers most control circuits (e.g., signaling to control panels, small actuators, or contactor coils via an intermediate relay), but heavy-duty power switching should be handled by appropriately rated relays or contactors.
In summary, the SA4700-102APO is a strong general-purpose addressable I/O module for applications where compliance, loop isolation and supervised inputs are primary concerns. For specialized high-current switching or multi-relay needs, evaluate models with higher ratings or multiple outputs.
Customer testimonials and installer feedback
While individual site testimonials will vary, common feedback themes from installers and system designers who choose addressable Apollo modules include:
- Ease of installation:Clear LED indicators, compact size and familiar Apollo wiring practices reduce commissioning time.
- Reliability:The integrated isolator and EN54 approvals provide confidence in sustained operation and compliance with regulatory expectations.
- Versatility:Multiple preconfigured modes and protocol compatibility allow the same module to be deployed across different projects, simplifying stock and replacing multiple part numbers.
Example (anonymized) installer comments often paraphrased across forums and installer notes:
- "The module saved time during retrofit work because it handled both the supervised input and relay output without additional boxes."
- "Having the built-in isolator meant a single cable fault didn’t cripple the whole loop — a real advantage in our large warehouse sites."
- "EN54 certification and manufacturer support gave us confidence when specifying for a client with stringent regulatory requirements."
(Note: These are representative, anonymized summaries of typical professional feedback and are not direct quotes from identified individuals.)
Installation, compliance and best-practice considerations
- Qualified installation:The SA4700-102APO should be installed and commissioned by a qualified fire-alarm engineer or electrician following the system designer’s instructions and local regulations (e.g., BS 5839, BS 7273 where applicable).
- Power isolation:Always isolate loop power prior to installation or maintenance to ensure safety and avoid spurious faults.
- Commissioning and testing:Test supervised inputs and relay outputs as part of normal commissioning procedures and maintain documented test records for compliance and maintenance.
- Specification matching:Verify the relay rating and environmental characteristics meet the specific application needs (for example, use an intermediate relay for high current loads).
Conclusion — why the SA4700-102APO is a great choice
The Apollo SA4700-102APO Addressable I/O Module combines practical functionality, broad protocol compatibility and high standards of compliance into a single, compact device. Its supervised volt-free input, voltage-free changeover relay, and integrated single-line loop isolator make it a flexible solution for interfacing building services and control logic to addressable fire-detection loops. The EN54-17 and EN54-18 approvals, multiple national certifications and a 10-year warranty further support its suitability for commercial and industrial environments where reliability and regulatory compliance are essential.
For system designers, engineers and facility managers seeking a dependable, easy-to-install addressable I/O module that balances cost-effectiveness with professional-grade features, the SA4700-102APO is an excellent option. Whether retrofitting existing installations or specifying new systems, the module’s combination of supervised inputs, changeover relay output and loop isolation capability helps simplify system architecture and improve fault tolerance — making it a practical choice for modern fire-alarm projects.
Price guidance:Typical suggested retail positioning offers strong value relative to its capabilities. Check with authorised distributors for current pricing, availability and technical support specific to your project.
