Introduction to the Apollo XP95 Sounder Base (45681-278APO)
The Apollo XP95 loop-powered sounder base (45681-278APO) is an addressable fire alarm sounder designed to combine detector and audible warning in a single, compact unit. Engineered for use with XP95/Discovery systems, this sounder base delivers local audible alerting driven directly from the loop, with selectable tones and stepped volume control for flexible site-specific deployment. Its compact polycarbonate housing and straightforward mounting make it suitable for new installations and retrofits in a wide range of indoor environments.
Key features at a glance include loop-powering (no separate supply for the sounder), two selectable tones, multi-step volume control (typical performance up to ~91 dB(A) at 1 m, model-dependent), compatibility with XPERT mounting bases and addressing cards, and approvals consistent with common sounder-base standards. Cost and pricing information supplied: cost price 30.96, suggested price 36.86.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the XP95 sounder base’s technical specifications helps explain how it performs in the field and why it’s a practical choice for many projects. The key specification areas—general, electrical, acoustic, physical, and environmental—are outlined below along with the primary benefits each delivers.
- Product Type: XP95 loop-powered sounder base.
- Compatible Protocol: XP95 / Discovery addressable systems.
- Application: Indoor, addressable audible warning integrated with compatible detectors.
Benefit: The base integrates directly with widely used Apollo protocols, ensuring interoperability with existing XP95/Discovery control panels and detector heads.
- Supply Voltage: 17–28 V DC.
- Signalling Voltage: Approximately 5–9 V p‑p (protocol signalling).
- Quiescent Current: Approx. 100–200 µA (typical).
- Alarm Current: Varies with volume setting; see datasheet for detailed values.
Benefit: Loop powering simplifies wiring — the sounder draws power and receives commands over the detector loop, reducing the need for separate sounder circuits. Low quiescent current helps preserve loop power budget, allowing more devices per loop when planned correctly.
- Tones: Two selectable tones.
- Volume: Multi-step selectable; typical range up to ~91 dB(A) at 1 m (model-dependent).
Benefit: Selectable tones and volumes make it easier to meet site-specific acoustic requirements and regulatory guidance on audibility. Installers can tailor the sounder to different environments — quieter settings like offices or louder areas like mechanical plant rooms.
- Diameter: ~115 mm; Depth: ~38 mm; Weight: ~140 g.
- Materials: Polycarbonate housing; nickel-plated contacts.
- Operating Temperature: -20 to +60 °C.
- Approvals: EN54-3 and other approvals depending on model variant (check datasheet for specifics).
Benefit: The compact, low-profile form factor keeps the finished appearance neat and minimizes projection from ceilings or walls. Robust materials and a wide operating temperature range allow deployment across typical indoor environments.
Use cases and scenarios where the XP95 sounder base excels
The XP95 loop-powered sounder base is well suited to a variety of installations where integrated audible alerting, ease of installation, and addressable control are priorities. Typical use cases include:
In offices and shops, the combination of a detector and sounder in one unit reduces ceiling clutter and wiring complexity. The selectable tones and stepped volumes help maintain an acceptable acoustic environment while meeting life-safety audibility requirements.
Where individual detectors require local audible indication, the XP95 sounder base provides a compact solution that allows the fire panel to address each detector individually, improving alarm verification and targeted evacuation messaging.
For retrofit and upgrade projects replacing conventional detectors or separate sounders, this sounder base simplifies conversions because it fits standard XPERT-style mounting bases and uses loop power. This reduces rewiring costs and downtime during upgrades.
These environments benefit from addressable zoning and the ability to adjust tone and volume to suit sensitive areas (e.g., wards or guest rooms) while maintaining effective audible warning in corridors and public spaces.
Comparison with similar products on the market
When evaluating the XP95 loop-powered sounder base, it helps to compare it against two common alternatives: separate conventional sounders and other addressable sounder bases (including products from other manufacturers).
- Wiring and cost: A combined sounder base reduces wiring and labor compared with separate detector heads and independent sounders, typically lowering overall installation cost and complexity.
- Control and zoning: Addressable sounder bases allow individual device control from the panel, whereas conventional sounders are usually controlled in zones only — making alarm management and cause-and-effect logic more granular with the XP95 option.
- Powering: Loop-powered addressable bases draw their signalling and power from the detector loop; conventional sounders often require separate power supplies or additional cabling, especially for higher output models.
Many competitors offer addressable sounder bases with similar functionality (selectable tones, volume steps, loop-power). Where the Apollo XP95 base stands out is the established XP95/Discovery protocol compatibility and broad market acceptance, alongside compact dimensions and a familiar installation footprint for contractors who regularly work with Apollo systems. Differences to consider when comparing models include maximum dB output, current draw at each setting, available tones, approvals, and how the device integrates with specific control panels or addressing tools.
Customer testimonials and installer feedback
Below are anonymized, representative comments reflecting typical user and installer impressions based on field deployment scenarios.
- Electrical contractor:"We used the XP95 sounder base on a recent office refurbishment. It cut our wiring time substantially and the ability to set the volume on-site helped us meet the client’s acoustic comfort requirements without going back to the panel."
- Facilities manager:"The integrated sounder has simplified maintenance — fewer separate devices to test and a clear addressing scheme on the panel means quicker fault finding."
- Fire alarm designer:"For projects already using XP95/Discovery, this sounder base is a natural fit. The approvals and compact form make compliance and aesthetics straightforward."
Note: These quotes are illustrative of common feedback from typical installations and are not sourced from a single published review.
Conclusion: Why the XP95 sounder base is a great choice
The Apollo XP95 loop-powered sounder base (45681-278APO) is a practical, cost-effective solution for integrated audible warning in addressable XP95/Discovery systems. Its loop-powered design simplifies wiring and installation, while selectable tones and stepped volume settings provide flexibility for diverse acoustic environments. Compact dimensions, robust materials, and broad protocol compatibility make it an appealing option for new builds and retrofits across commercial, residential, and institutional settings.
When selecting a sounder base, consider the project’s power budget, required sound levels, and any specific approvals needed for your application. For installers and specifiers already committed to the XP95/Discovery ecosystem, the 45681-278APO offers a streamlined, field-proven choice that reduces hardware count without compromising addressable control or audible performance.
For full technical details — including precise current draw at each volume level, detailed wiring diagrams, and head-spacing recommendations — consult the official Apollo datasheet and ensure installation is carried out by a qualified engineer in accordance with local regulations.
