Introduction: Meet the Apollo 55000-001APO XP95 Open‑Area Sounder
The Apollo 55000-001APOis a loop‑powered, addressable open‑area sounder designed for use with XP95 (and compatible Discovery/CoreProtocol) fire alarm systems. Supplied on a 4" isolating base (EN54‑17) and housed in a robust red polycarbonate shell, this sounder combines selectable tones, two user‑selectable volume levels (92 dB(A) and 100 dB(A)), and built‑in short‑circuit isolation. The device is IP65 rated for exposed internal and semi‑protected external locations and carries a reassuring 10‑year manufacturer warranty.
Key features at a glance
- Loop‑powered:no external power supply required
- Isolating 4" base:integrated short‑circuit isolator compliant with EN54‑17
- Selectable tones and synchronisation:Apollo, Slow Whoop, DIN; synchronised tones supported
- Two volume levels:92 dB(A) or 100 dB(A) selectable to suit the environment
- Durable and weather resistant:polycarbonate housing, IP65 rated
- Wide compatibility:XP95 protocol compatible (works with Discovery and CoreProtocol systems)
- Long warranty:10 years manufacturer warranty
Detailed specifications and benefits
The sounder operates from a 17–28 V DC loop voltage typical of XP95/Discovery addressable systems. It is loop‑powered, which means no local power supply is required — simplifying wiring and reducing installation cost. Quiescent current is extremely low (approximately 333 µA at 24 V DC), and alarm currents are modest (typical 5 mA, with exact per‑tone and per‑volume values available on the official datasheet). A small power‑up surge (1.2 mA) and fast power‑up time (<1 s) make the device responsive on system activation.
The Apollo sounder offers three selectable tone profiles — Apollo, Slow Whoop and DIN — and supports tone synchronisation across multiple devices to prevent disturbing beats or interference. Two sound output settings (92 dB(A) and 100 dB(A)) give installers the flexibility to meet required sound levels for different spaces while controlling nuisance. With a maximum sound output of 100 dB(A), the device is suitable for most open areas such as offices, retail spaces and light industrial environments.
With a compact diameter of 104 mm and depth of 97.5 mm, the 225 g sounder is easy to handle and mount. The polycarbonate housing combines impact resistance with UV stability for long life in exposed internal or semi‑protected external locations. The IP65 rating indicates protection against dust ingress and water jets, widening acceptable mounting locations compared with indoor‑only devices. Operating temperature range is −10 °C to +55 °C with 0–95% RH (no condensation or icing), covering the needs of most commercial and light industrial sites.
One of the standout features is the 4" isolating base (EN54‑17), which includes a built‑in short‑circuit isolator. This improves system reliability by ensuring that a short on the loop will only affect a small section of the circuit, allowing the remainder of the system to remain operational. The device is designed to comply with EN54‑3 (sounders) and EN54‑17 (isolators). It also carries approvals such as LPCB, VdS and CPR where applicable — installers should consult manufacturer certificates for full approval listings.
Benefits — why these specifications matter
- Reduced installation complexity:loop‑power eliminates the need for local power supplies and reduces cabling.
- Improved site resilience:integrated isolator localises faults and keeps the rest of the loop operational.
- Flexible acoustic options:selectable tones and volumes help comply with local sound level requirements and reduce occupant discomfort or alarm fatigue.
- Weather resistance:IP65 rating increases permitted mounting locations and extends service life in semi‑exposed areas.
- Long‑term assurance:a 10‑year manufacturer warranty reflects confidence in durability and reduces lifecycle risk.
Use cases and scenarios where the product excels
The Apollo 55000-001APO is especially well suited to open‑area notification in settings where addressable control and section isolation are priorities. Typical installations include:
- Offices and open‑plan workplaces:the selectable volume and tone synchronisation make it easy to meet coverage requirements while minimising disturbance.
- Retail environments:malls, shops and showrooms benefit from loop‑powered devices that simplify wiring and avoid multiple local PSUs.
- Schools and universities:robust construction, selectable tones and clear audibility across open areas are ideal for educational facilities.
- Light industrial premises:the IP65 rating and high maximum sound level make the unit appropriate for semi‑exposed production areas and storage facilities.
- Refurbishments and retrofits:compatibility with XP95/Discovery systems allows straightforward replacement of legacy addressable sounders while gaining isolator functionality.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When assessing addressable open‑area sounders, there are a few key axes to compare: power architecture (loop‑powered vs externally powered), isolator inclusion, IP rating, acoustic flexibility and protocol compatibility.
Loop‑powered sounders like the Apollo 55000-001APO remove the need for local power supplies, simplifying installation and ongoing maintenance. Externally powered devices can offer higher sound outputs or additional features but at the cost of extra cabling, distribution equipment and potential points of failure.
Many economical addressable sounders do not include an isolating base. The integrated EN54‑17 isolator in the 55000-001APO improves system robustness — a feature that is particularly valuable in larger loops or installations where service continuity is important.
Devices rated IP21 or IP23 are fine for indoor controlled environments but may struggle in semi‑exposed locations. The Apollo’s IP65 rating provides a wider scope of acceptable mounting areas without moving to a fully weatherproof (and often more expensive) external sounder.
Because the sounder is XP95 compatible (and interoperable with Discovery/CoreProtocol), it integrates smoothly into widely used addressable platforms. When comparing brands or models, ensure protocol alignment with the existing control panel to avoid compatibility issues.
Customer feedback and installer perspectives
Where publicly available reviews are not extensive for a specific part number, installer and system integrator feedback typically focuses on the practical benefits observed on site. Common themes reported by professionals who choose this class of Apollo device include:
- Ease of installation:loop powering and integrated isolator reduce wiring complexity and commissioning time.
- Reliable performance:consistent sound levels and tone synchronisation help meet coverage goals without complaints about interference.
- Good value for money:when priced competitively (suggested retail around 49.95), the combination of features and the 10‑year warranty make it attractive for both new builds and retrofits.
If you require verified user testimonials or case studies, request manufacturer case studies or ask your supplier for references from recent installations.
Pricing and value
With a suggested retail price of 49.95 (cost price 41.96), the Apollo 55000-001APO occupies a competitive price point for an addressable, loop‑powered sounder that includes an isolating base and IP65 protection. For projects where reliability, reduced installation time and compliance are priorities, the device represents good value compared with lower‑cost non‑isolating or externally powered alternatives.
Conclusion: Why choose the Apollo 55000-001APO?
The Apollo XP95 Open‑Area Sounder (55000-001APO) offers a compelling blend of practical features: loop‑powered operation, EN54‑17 isolating base, selectable tones and volumes, IP65 protection and broad protocol compatibility. These characteristics make it particularly suitable for offices, retail spaces, schools and light industrial sites where ease of installation, system resilience and user comfort matter.
Backed by a 10‑year manufacturer warranty and compliance with recognised standards, this sounder is a solid choice for installers and system designers seeking reliable, addressable audible notification without excessive cost or complexity. Whether for new installations or upgrades to XP95/Discovery systems, the 55000-001APO balances functionality and value in a compact, robust package.
