Introduction to the C‑TEC CA430A/DR CAST Hi‑Output Addressable Wall Sounder
The C‑TEC CA430A/DRis a compact, high‑output addressable wall sounder designed specifically for C‑TEC CAST analogue addressable fire alarm systems. Packaged with a deep mounting base and finished in red for clear visibility, this device combines powerful audible performance with low loop loading and built‑in short‑circuit protection. Typical sound pressure levels reach around 100 dB(A) at 1 m (tone dependent), while the device still maintains very low quiescent current, making it a strong choice for modern commercial and industrial fire systems.
Key Features at a Glance
- CAST addressable protocol compatibility— seamless integration with C‑TEC CAST panels.
- High acoustic output— typically ~100 dB(A) @ 1 m (tone dependent).
- Onboard short‑circuit loop isolator— improves loop resilience and reduces system downtime risk.
- Energy efficient— low quiescent current (~460 µA) and modest alarm current (~6.5 mA when sounding).
- Flexible signalling— 31 selectable tones and 4 selectable volume levels; supports group addressing.
- Robust mounting— supplied with deep mounting base for internal wiring; weatherproof IP55/IP65 variant available for exposed locations.
Detailed Specifications and Benefits
Understanding the CA430A/DR’s specifications helps explain why it’s well suited to professional fire detection installations. Below we break down key technical attributes and the practical benefits they deliver.
- Certifications:LPCB to EN54‑3 & EN54‑17; Kiwa Telefication to EN54‑13 for CAST devices. These approvals confirm that the device meets recognised European standards for sounders and loop devices.
- Sound level:Typically ~100 dB(A) @ 1 m. This high SPL ensures alarms are audible over background noise in commercial and industrial environments.
- Tones & volumes:31 selectable tones and 4 volume levels let designers and installers match sound characteristics to local regulations and site requirements.
- Group addressing:Supported — allows multiple devices to operate simultaneously under a single group command, useful for zoned alerting strategies.
- Supply voltage:24–40 V DC, compatible with standard addressable loops.
- Quiescent current:Typically ~460 µA during polling — very low loop loading, allowing more devices per loop and reducing power budget concerns.
- Alarm current:Typically ~6.5 mA when sounding at nominal loop voltage, enabling efficient power management across large systems.
- Onboard isolator:Short‑circuit loop isolator protects the loop and maintains communication with the panel in the event of a local short, enhancing reliability.
- Mounting:Supplied with a deep mounting base for tidy internal wiring and easy installation.
- IP rating:Standard CA430A/DR variants are typically listed as IP33C / IP21C; the CA430A/DR/65 weatherproof variant is IP55 / IP65 — confirm SKU for outdoor or exposed use.
- Dimensions & weight:Approximately 114 mm diameter × 131 mm deep; weight ≈300–320 g (deep base).
- Operating conditions:−10 °C to +55 °C and up to 95% RH non‑condensing.
Benefits for Installers and End Users
- Lower loop loading:The low quiescent current means more devices can be accommodated per loop, reducing wiring complexity and cost.
- Resilient systems:The onboard short‑circuit isolator minimises single‑point failures affecting the whole loop.
- Flexible configuration:Multiple tones, volume levels and group addressing make the sounder adaptable to varied applications and local codes.
- Easy installation:Deep base simplifies wiring and provides secure attachment; clear LEDs aid commissioning and fault finding.
- Certainty of compliance:EN54 approvals offer confidence in regulatory and insurance compliance for many commercial installations.
Use Cases and Scenarios Where the CA430A/DR Excels
The CA430A/DR is designed for environments where reliable, loud, and configurable audible signalling is essential. Typical scenarios include:
Open‑plan offices and multi‑tenant buildings benefit from the CA430A/DR’s high output and selectable tones, ensuring alarms cut through ambient noise. Low loop loading helps when several devices are wired on the same addressable loop serving multiple floors.
In factories and warehouses with significant background noise, the ~100 dB(A) output and multiple volume levels provide the flexibility to meet audibility requirements without overstressing the loop power budget.
Retail centres, showrooms and public circulation areas often need clear, attention‑grabbing audible alerts that can be adjusted to suit different times or occupancy levels. Group addressing supports zonal evacuation strategies for staged alerts.
Where reliability and compliance are paramount, the CA430A/DR’s EN54 approvals and loop‑isolator protection make it suitable for schools, colleges and healthcare premises — provided the correct IP variant is selected for any exposed locations.
Comparisons with Similar Products
When specifying audible devices, installers commonly weigh the CA430A/DR against both conventional sounders and other addressable sounders. Here’s how it compares in key areas:
- Vs conventional sounders:Addressable devices like the CA430A/DR provide individual device monitoring and fault reporting back to the panel, plus lower overall wiring complexity for large systems. Conventional sounders typically lack loop monitoring and instant isolation features.
- Vs other addressable sounders:The CA430A/DR stands out for its balance of high SPL, very low quiescent current, and onboard short‑circuit isolation. Some competing addressable sounders may offer comparable SPL but at higher standby current or without an integrated isolator, which can limit the number of devices per loop or require separate isolators.
- Environmental ruggedness:The availability of a weatherproof /65 variant gives the CA430A/DR an edge for exposed locations. Always verify the specific SKU and IP rating when comparing models for outdoor use.
What Installers and Users Say (Typical Feedback)
While individual reviews will vary, common positive feedback from system designers and installers includes:
- "Reliable loop behaviour and easy commissioning" — installers appreciate the clear polling and isolator LEDs and predictable quiescent current.
- "Good acoustic performance for its size" — end users note that the high SPL performs well in noisy environments without needing larger bulkier units.
- "Simplifies loop design" — system designers value the onboard isolator and low current draw, which can reduce the need for additional components and simplify calculations for large installations.
Constructive feedback typically centres on confirming the correct IP variant for outdoor use and ensuring tone selection is set appropriately during commissioning to meet local alarm signalling policies.
Pricing and Specification Notes
The CA430A/DR is positioned as an affordable, professional‑grade addressable sounder. Suggested retail guidance sits around£34.99(price varies by supplier and volume). When specifying the device, confirm the exact SKU — standard CA430A/DR vs weatherproof CA430A/DR/65 — to ensure the correct IP rating for your installation.
Conclusion — Why the CA430A/DR Is a Solid Choice
The C‑TEC CA430A/DR offers an attractive combination of high acoustic output, low loop loading and built‑in short‑circuit isolation in a compact, easy‑to‑install package. With EN54 approvals, extensive tone and volume options, and the option of a weatherproof variant, it is a flexible solution for a wide range of commercial, industrial and public sector applications. For installers and system designers working with C‑TEC CAST panels, the CA430A/DR is a reliable, cost‑effective choice that simplifies loop design while delivering the audibility and compliance demanded by professional fire alarm systems.
