Introduction to the Apollo 55000-005APO (XP95 Open-Area Sounder VID, Red)
The Apollo 55000-005APO — marketed as the XP95 Addressable Sounder VID (Red) — is a loop-powered open-area sounder with an integrated red visual indicator (VID) designed for modern addressable fire alarm systems. Engineered for use on XP95 and Discovery protocols, this device pairs audible and visual signalling in a compact, EN54-3 certified unit. With selectable sound levels (92 or 100 dB(A)), multiple tone options, built-in short-circuit isolation and an IP65 rating for protected indoor environments, the 55000-005APO is positioned as a flexible, reliable choice for commercial and public spaces that require clear, synchronised alarm signalling.
Key features at a glance
- Addressable compatibility:XP95 & Discovery protocol support for intelligent loop integration.
- Dual sound levels:Selectable 92 dB(A) or 100 dB(A) to suit different environments and regulatory requirements.
- Multiple tones:Built-in tone options (Apollo, Slow Whoop, DIN/multi-tone) for regional and application-specific needs.
- Integrated visual indicator (VID):Red beacon for combined audible and visual alarm in one housing.
- Loop-powered with isolator:Built-in short-circuit isolation reduces risk to the whole loop from a local fault; mounts to a 4" isolating base (EN54-17).
- Certification and durability:EN54-3 certified, LPCB/CPR listed, and IP65 rated for protected indoor installations.
Detailed specifications and benefits
- Manufacturer / Model:Apollo 55000-005APO (XP95 Open-Area Sounder VID, Red)
- Product type:Addressable open-area sounder with visual indicator
- Standards / Approvals:EN54-3 certified; LPCB / CPR listed
- Protocol compatibility:XP95 & Discovery
- Supply voltage:17–28 V DC (loop-powered)
- Quiescent current:≈ 330 μA at 24 V DC
- Switch-on / surge current:≈ 1.2 mA
- Alarm current:≈ 5 mA (sounder only); ≈ 8 mA (sounder + beacon)
- Sound output:Selectable 92 or 100 dB(A) to match room usage
- Tones:Apollo, Slow Whoop, DIN / multi-tone variants
- Beacon / flash:Red flash, synchronisable across the loop
- IP rating:IP65 (protected indoor areas)
- Operating temperature:−10 °C to +55 °C
- Dimensions:Ø 104 mm × depth 97.5 mm
- Mounting:4" isolating base (EN54-17)
- Weight:≈ 260 g
- Warranty:10 years (manufacturer)
Benefits that flow from these specifications include low loop loading (important when planning many devices on the same loop), selectable sound level for noise-sensitive spaces, synchronised visual and audible signalling for compliance and occupant safety, and inherent protection against loop short-circuits thanks to the isolator. The combination of addressability and integrated VID saves space and simplifies wiring compared with separate devices.
Use cases and scenarios where the product excels
The Apollo 55000-005APO is best-suited to open indoor spaces where both audible and visual alarms are required and where addressable detection provides benefits in system monitoring and control. Typical applications include:
- Offices and corporate environments:Open-plan offices and atria where clear direction and visibility of alarm states are important. The selectable 92/100 dB levels allow installers to balance audibility with occupant comfort.
- Retail spaces:Shops, shopping arcades and supermarkets require unobtrusive yet effective alarm devices that can be synchronised across large open areas.
- Corridors and escape routes:Visual indication paired with sound improves visibility in smoke conditions and supports accessibility for hearing-impaired occupants.
- Warehouses and light industrial buildings:Robust loop-powered devices with IP65 rating suit protected indoor storage and logistics areas where visibility and audibility must reach dispersed staff.
- Public buildings:Schools, hospitals (public areas), libraries and town halls where addressable systems enable quick identification of alarm zones and integrated VID aids evacuation coordination.
Beyond these examples, the sounder’s compatibility with XP95 and Discovery panels makes it a convenient choice for both new engineered systems and retrofits onto compatible loops, especially where installers want the benefit of short-circuit isolation and synchronisable signalling.
Comparisons with similar products
When assessing the 55000-005APO against alternatives, it helps to compare by category rather than single-brand models:
- Addressable sounder vs conventional sounder:Addressable sounders like the Apollo model report status and can be individually polled by the fire panel, simplifying fault finding and zonal control. Conventional sounders are simpler and often cheaper but lack individual monitoring and require more wiring complexity for large systems.
- Integrated VID vs separate beacon + sounder:Combined units reduce ceiling/wall clutter and simplify installation. Separate devices can offer flexibility in placement but at the cost of extra bases, wiring and potential incompatibilities.
- Loop-powered units with isolator vs non-isolated:Built-in short-circuit isolation increases system resilience — a single fault on the loop won’t necessarily put large sections of the system out of service. Non-isolated devices may be cheaper but increase risk in larger installations.
- Other manufacturer ranges:Alternative addressable sounder/beacon products from other major manufacturers (e.g., Hochiki, Gent, System Sensor) offer comparable solutions. Key differentiators for the Apollo 55000-005APO are its XP95/Discovery compatibility, selectable sound levels, EN54-3 certification and established Apollo ecosystem which can simplify procurement and stocking for installers already using Apollo devices.
For projects already specifying the XP95/Discovery protocol, the Apollo sounder often represents the path of least resistance in terms of compatibility, documentation and support. If a project requires ultra-high IP ratings or intrinsically safe devices for hazardous areas, specialised models from other ranges should be evaluated instead.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
While individual customer reviews vary by installation, common feedback themes from installers and system specifiers typically include:
- Reliable compatibility:Installers appreciate predictable behaviour on XP95/Discovery loops and straightforward addressing using common programming tools.
- Easy installation:The 4" isolating base and familiar Apollo mounting format speed up fitment and reduce wiring errors on-site.
- Good performance:Selectable dB levels and multiple tones give installers options to meet local standards and client preferences.
- Value for money:For a loop-powered, EN54-3 certified device with synchronisable VID, the suggested retail price (approximately $79.99) positions it as a competitive mid-range choice for contractors and specifiers.
If you require formal case studies or long-term reliability metrics, consult Apollo’s technical literature and independent certification bodies for field performance data and approved listings.
Installation, compliance and practical notes
This sounder is EN54-3 certified and should be installed only with compatible control panels and the correct 4" isolating base (EN54-17). Installers must calculate loop loading carefully — although the device has relatively low alarm current (≈ 5 mA sounder only; ≈ 8 mA sounder + beacon), many devices on a single loop will add up. The built-in short-circuit isolator improves robustness, but proper design and commissioning by a qualified fire alarm engineer are essential. Follow Apollo datasheets and local regulations, and verify panel compatibility (XP95/Discovery) before ordering.
Conclusion: Why choose the Apollo 55000-005APO?
The Apollo 55000-005APO XP95 Open-Area Sounder VID (Red) is a versatile, well-specified component for modern addressable fire alarm systems. Its combination of addressability, selectable sound output, synchronisable visual signalling, built-in short-circuit isolation and EN54-3 certification make it suitable for a wide range of commercial and public installations. For projects using XP95 or Discovery protocols, it offers a straightforward, cost-effective solution that reduces installation complexity while delivering reliable audible and visual alarm performance. Backed by a manufacturer warranty (typically 10 years) and a strong support ecosystem, it is a solid choice for contractors and system integrators specifying addressable notification devices.
