Introduction to the C-TEC ActiV BF430C/CC/DR/65 Wall Sounder
The C-TEC ActiV BF430C/CC/DR/65 is a purpose-built conventional wall sounder designed for demanding commercial and industrial notification applications. Third-party certified to EN54-3 and delivering a nominal 100 dB(A) at 1 m, this device is part of C-TECs ActiV range and is supplied with a deep base and an available weatherproof variant (/65) rated to IP55C. With flexible tone and volume selection, low current consumption for a high-output appliance and an installation-friendly base, it offers a balance of performance, compliance and practicality for installers and systems integrators.
Key features at a glance
- EN54-3 certified— third-party listed for notification appliance compliance (LPCB / VdS where shown).
- High output— nominal 100 dB(A) at 1 m for reliable audibility in noisy or large spaces.
- Extensive tone selection— 31 selectable primary tones plus a selectable secondary tone set via DIP switches.
- Two volume levels— selectable High / Low to suit the environment and reduce nuisance alarms.
- Wide supply range— 18 6 30 V DC with low current draw for a hi-output device.
- Weatherproof option— /65 variant rated IP55C for covered outdoor or exposed locations.
- Deep base— extra wiring space, easier termination and optional tamper features.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the BF430C/CC/DR/65s technical attributes helps explain where it fits and why it is effective. Key specifications include:
- Model & series:BF430C/CC/DR/65 — ActiV series with deep base and weatherproof variant.
- Sound output:100 dB(A) nominal at 1 metre, making it suitable for warehouses, retail floors, service areas and other locations that need a high-intensity audible alarm.
- Tone options:31 selectable primary tones plus a selectable secondary tone set configurable via DIP switches. This flexibility supports compatibility with existing systems and local audibility preferences or regulations.
- Volume levels:Two selectable levels (High / Low) help tailor the response to the environment and can reduce annoyance in areas where full output is not required.
- Electrical:Operates from 18 6 30 V DC. Despite its high acoustic output, the unit has relatively low alarm current (approx. 5.5 mA @ 30 V DC; 3.8 mA @ 18 V DC), easing loading calculations on conventional circuits.
- Environmental:The standard device is suitable for indoor locations; the /65 weatherproof variant provides IP55C protection for covered outdoor use and harsher environments. Operating range is 610 C to +55 C and up to 95% RH non-condensing.
- Physical:Approximate dimensions are Ø114 mm with 132 mm depth (deep base), and a weight of about 315 g. The deep base increases wiring room and supports tamper or locking options where needed.
- Approvals:EN54-3 third-party certified. Always check the product label and datasheet for the declared/approved configurations and the exact certificate listings for LPCB or VdS.
Benefits of these specifications include straightforward compliance with EN54-3 requirements, strong acoustic performance for reliable notification in noisy environments, and installer-friendly features such as DIP-switch tone/volume selection and a deep base to simplify wiring and reduce installation time.
Use cases and scenarios where the product excels
The BF430C/CC/DR/65 is intended for conventional fire alarm circuits and is ideal in many typical commercial and light-industrial settings. Representative use cases include:
- Retail and shopping centres:Large open sales areas and service corridors can benefit from the 100 dB(A) output to ensure alarms are heard above ambient noise.
- Warehouses and manufacturing floors:High ambient noise levels in production environments mean higher-output sounders are essential for occupant safety.
- Car parks and service yards:The /65 weatherproof variant with IP55C offers protection for covered outdoor installations where exposure to dust and water splash is a concern.
- Office blocks and common areas:Selectable tones and volume levels make the unit flexible for multi-purpose buildings where different audible signatures or lower volumes may be preferred in certain zones.
- Temporary or retrofit projects:The deep base simplifies rewiring and termination when replacing older devices or installing into existing circuits.
For contractors and systems integrators, the combination of EN54-3 certification, selectable tones, and low current draw simplifies system design, compliance paperwork and circuit loading considerations.
Comparisons with similar products
When evaluating notification appliances, the BF430C/CC/DR/65 stacks up on several key factors: output, certification, installation convenience and environmental protection.
- Output and audibility:Many standard wall sounders operate at lower levels (80 6 dB). The BF430Cs 100 dB(A) gives it an edge in noisy or large areas where audibility is critical.
- EN54-3 certification:Some lower-cost sounders lack credible third-party certification. For projects requiring EN54 compliance, a certified device like the BF430C is often mandatory or strongly preferred by certifying bodies and insurers.
- Tone and volume flexibility:The 31-tone selection and two-volume option offer more flexibility than basic single-tone sounders. This helps with interoperability and allows installers to match existing alarm signatures or local requirements.
- Weatherproofing:While many sounders offer IP ratings, the /65 variants IP55C rating combined with the deep base makes it competitive for covered outdoor use without needing a separate enclosure.
- Installation and wiring:The deep base provides more wiring space than shallow models and can speed up installation on retrofit jobs. Some competing models require additional mounting boxes or extra time to terminate multiple conductors.
In short, compared with typical conventional wall sounders, the C-TEC ActiV BF430C/CC/DR/65 provides a stronger combination of certified performance, installer-friendly features and environmental protection. Buyers should compare declared sound outputs, certification status and current consumption when selecting between models.
Customer feedback and installer perspectives
Below are representative comments commonly reported by installers and end users of high-output EN54-3 sounders like the BF430C/CC/DR/65. These are paraphrased, non-attributed examples intended to reflect practical experience rather than quoted endorsements.
- Installer feedback:"Easy to wire and the deep base gives plenty of space when working with multiple conductors. The DIP switches for tone and volume save time and avoid extra programming steps on conventional systems."
- Systems integrator:"EN54-3 certification was essential for the project spec. The low current draw meant we could keep the same number of devices per circuit without complex redesigns."
- Site manager:"We chose the /65 weatherproof variant for the covered loading bay and it coped well through the winter seasons wet conditions."
- Facilities perspective:"Selectable tones helped us match the existing alarm signature in the building and reduce confusion among staff during drills."
If you require verifiable customer reviews or case studies, request datasheets or installer case notes from your supplier or authorised C-TEC distributor.
Conclusion: Why choose the C-TEC ActiV BF430C/CC/DR/65
The C-TEC ActiV BF430C/CC/DR/65 is a versatile and robust conventional wall sounder that delivers high acoustic output, EN54-3 certification and practical installation features. Its 100 dB(A) output, extensive tone and volume selection, low current consumption and optional IP55C weatherproofing make it well suited to a wide range of commercial, industrial and covered outdoor applications. The deep base simplifies wiring and retrofits, saving installation time and reducing onsite headaches.
For projects that demand certified performance, audible clarity in noisy environments and installer-friendly design, the BF430C/CC/DR/65 is a compelling choice. Always confirm the correct variant (for example, ordering the /65 for weatherproof requirements), check the datasheet for wiring diagrams and certificate details, and follow manufacturer and local regulations during installation.
Suggested supplier pricing is shown as 30.00 (supplier recommended). For current availability, exact pricing in your local currency, product lead times and warranty options, contact your authorised C-TEC distributor or supplier and confirm final order codes and certification listings.
