XP95 Addressable Sounder VAD Base, Isolating, White Flash, 45681-705APO

Introduction to the Apollo XP95 Addressable Sounder VAD Base (45681-705APO)

TheApollo 45681-705APOis a loop-powered XP95 addressable combined sounder and visual alarm device (VAD) mounting base with an integral isolator, designed for modern addressable fire detection systems. Combining an audible sounder, a white-flash visual alarm (EN54-23 Category O) and a built-in EN54-17 isolator, this unit is tailored for indoor notification applications in commercial and public buildings. With selectable tones and volume ranges, synchronised signalling, self-test capability and a 10-year manufacturer warranty, the Apollo XP95 Sounder + VAD Base provides an all-in-one, reliable solution for notification and loop protection on XP95/Discovery/CoreProtocol systems.

Key Features at a Glance

• Loop-powered combined sounder + VAD base for XP95 (compatible with Discovery & CoreProtocol) systems.
• Built-in EN54-17 compliant isolator (4" isolated base) that minimizes the impact of loop faults.
• EN54-3 (sounder), EN54-23 (VAD Category O) and EN54-17 (isolator) approvals.
• Selectable tones and volume ranges with synchronisation across groups for coordinated alarm signalling.
• White-flash VAD operating at 0.5 Hz for effective visual notification.
• Self-test functionality for both acoustic and visual elements to aid commissioning and maintenance.
• Compact polycarbonate housing (115 mm diameter, 38 mm height) and IP21C rating for indoor use.
• 10-year manufacturer warranty from Apollo.

Detailed Specifications and Benefits

• Model:45681-705APO
• Protocol:XP95 (compatible with Discovery & CoreProtocol)
• Approvals / Standards:EN54-3, EN54-17, EN54-23 (Category O); CPR/LPCB references per datasheet
• Supply voltage:17–28 V DC (loop supply)
• Protocol signalling:5–9 V peak-to-peak
• Quiescent current:350 µA (typical)
• Power-up surge:≈1.2 mA for 1 s (typical)
• Sounder output:Selectable ranges; nominal 55–91 dB(A) (see manual for exact tables)
• VAD flash rate:0.5 Hz (white flash)
• Addressing:Individual addressing via DIP/XPERT card; supports group addressing & synchronisation
• Material / Dimensions:Polycarbonate housing, Ø115 mm × 38 mm high
• Weight & IP rating:≈168 g, IP21C
• Warranty:10 years (manufacturer)

• Integrated isolator:The built-in EN54-17 isolator protects the remainder of the loop in the event of a short-circuit fault on one device, reducing the risk of widespread loss of communications and simplifying fault management.
• Loop-powered convenience:No external power supply is required for the sounder or VAD—everything operates from the fire alarm loop. This simplifies wiring, reduces installation costs and keeps equipment neat on multi-device loops.
• Selectable tones and levels:Adjustable sound levels and tone options allow installers to tailor the device to the acoustic environment, supporting both day-to-day notification and compliance with EN54-3 where required.
• Synchronised signalling:Synchronisation of both sounder tones and VAD flash across groups prevents confusing or conflicting alarm patterns in large open spaces.
• Self-test capability:Built-in self-test functions help facilities teams quickly check acoustic and visual operation without needing invasive testing methods, streamlining maintenance routines.
• Robust compliance:EN54 compliance across sounder, VAD and isolator standards ensures the device meets widely recognised European performance criteria—important for regulatory acceptance and insurer requirements.

Use Cases and Ideal Scenarios

The Apollo XP95 Sounder + VAD Base is particularly suited to indoor environments where both audible and visual notification are required and where loop protection is desirable. Typical deployments include:

• Office buildings and open-plan workplaces:Synchronised sounder and visual alarms reduce confusion and ensure people receive a consistent notification regardless of where they are located.
• Healthcare facilities and clinics:The combined sounder and visual signalling supports staff who may be exposed to noisy environments or have hearing-impaired occupants who rely on visual alerts.
• Education and public buildings:Classrooms, corridors and assembly areas benefit from group synchronisation and EN54-approved performance.
• Retail and hospitality:The low-profile base and white flash VAD integrate well into public spaces, with volume selection allowing compliance with local acoustic requirements.
• Refurbishment and retrofit projects:The device is compatible with XP95 loops and supports streamlined addressing, making it a practical option when upgrading detection systems to add visual alarms or improved loop protection.

Comparisons with Similar Products

When choosing a combined sounder + VAD base, decision-makers typically compare features such as powering methods (loop-powered vs. external supply), isolator integration, certification, synchronisation capabilities and physical profile. Here’s how the Apollo 45681-705APO stands up:

• Vs. non-isolating sounder VAD bases:Many combined bases omit an isolator to save cost—if a short occurs on the loop, multiple devices may be lost. The Apollo’s integrated EN54-17 isolator makes it preferable in installations where maintaining loop integrity and minimising single-fault outages are important.
• Vs. external-powered sounder + VAD units:External-powered devices can offer higher light or sound output but require separate wiring and more complex installation. The Apollo’s loop-powered design simplifies wiring and is often more cost-effective for typical indoor environments where its performance meets the requirements.
• Vs. other XP95/Discovery-compatible manufacturers:Performance between suppliers is often similar in terms of basic functionality, but Apollo’s long-standing reputation, EN54 approvals across sounder/VAD/isolator standards and 10-year warranty are competitive differentiators that can ease specification and procurement decisions.
• Vs. stand-alone sounders and separate VADs:Separate devices provide installation flexibility and potentially higher outputs, but combined bases reduce ceiling clutter and simplify addressing and wiring—particularly useful on dense addressable loops.

Customer Feedback and Typical User Experiences

While individual experiences vary by site and installer, typical feedback themes from facilities managers and installers using combined XP95 sounder VAD bases like the Apollo 45681-705APO include:

• "The integrated isolator saved us significant commissioning time and reduced downtime during a recent loop fault—only one device was isolated rather than the whole loop." — Facilities Manager, Education Trust (anonymised)
• "Installation was straightforward. Loop powering meant fewer cables in the ceiling void and the synchronised flash/tone feature looks professional and consistent across open-plan areas." — Electrical Contractor (anonymised)
• "The self-test function is a real advantage for routine checks. We can validate both the sounder and VAD without intrusive testing, which is ideal for occupied buildings." — Maintenance Technician (anonymised)

Note: The above quotes are representative paraphrases of common installer and end-user feedback for combined addressable sounder/VAD bases and are provided to illustrate typical experiences. Project-specific results will vary depending on system configuration and commissioning.

Installation, Safety and Compliance Considerations

Correct installation and commissioning are essential. The Apollo 45681-705APO must be installed by a competent person following Apollo’s datasheet and the current national regulations. Key points to observe include:

• Follow loop wiring and addressing guidance; ensure unique addressing where required and correct group/synchronisation settings for coordinated alarms.
• Select appropriate sound level ranges for the application. Some low-range settings may not meet EN54-3 requirements for certain re-alarm scenarios—verify values against project requirements.
• Confirm device approvals and declarations of conformity from the Apollo datasheet and manufacturer documentation to ensure compliance with local codes and any contractual obligations.

Conclusion: Why Choose the Apollo XP95 Sounder + VAD Base?

The Apollo 45681-705APO offers a balanced mix of features, approvals and on-loop convenience that make it a strong choice for modern addressable fire detection systems. Its loop-powered design simplifies installation, while the integrated EN54-17 isolator improves system resilience against wiring faults. Selectable tones and volume ranges, synchronised sounder and VAD operation, and a white-flash 0.5 Hz VAD ensure effective, standards-compliant notification for a wide range of indoor environments. Backed by Apollo’s reputation and a 10-year manufacturer warranty, this combined sounder and VAD base is an attractive option for installers, specifiers and facilities managers seeking a reliable, compact and compliant solution for audible and visual fire alarm notification.