ActiV Hi‑Output Wall Sounder + VAD BF433C/CC/DR — EN54‑3/23, 100 dB, Deep Base

Introduction to the ActiV Hi‑Output Wall Sounder + VAD BF433C/CC/DR

ActiV BF433C/CC/DR — Hi‑Output Wall Sounder + VAD (deep base)is a combined audible and visual alarm device engineered for conventional fire alarm installations. Designed and manufactured in the UK by C‑TEC, the unit brings together a powerful 100 dB(A) sounder and a white high‑visibility visual alarm device (VAD) in a compact wall‑mount enclosure with a deep base for additional wiring space. With EN54‑3 and EN54‑23 third‑party certification, selectable tone and flash options, and a low operating current for its output class, this product is positioned for reliable, standards‑compliant performance across many commercial and public environments.

Key features at a glance

• Combined audible and visual alarm device for conventional systems with a deep base for extra wiring space.
• EN54‑3 (sounder) and EN54‑23 (VAD) certified — suitable for mains‑powered conventional panels (compatibility testing recommended).
• High‑output 100 dB(A) sound level at 1 m with 31 selectable primary/secondary tone pairs and two volume levels.
• White VAD with selectable flash rates (0.5 Hz, 1 Hz or OFF) and W‑2.75‑9 wall coverage rating.
• Wide operating voltage (18–30 V DC) and low operating current relative to output.
• Wall mount, IP33C standard (IP55C weatherproof /65 variant available). Made in the UK.

Detailed specifications and benefits

• Model: BF433C/CC/DR — Combined wall sounder + VAD (deep base).
• Manufacturer: C‑TEC (designed & manufactured in the UK).
• Certifications: EN54‑3 (sounder) & EN54‑23 (VAD) with third‑party certification referenced on reseller pages.

• Sound output: 100 dB(A) measured at 1 m — classed as a high‑output device and suitable for areas needing robust audible warnings.
• Tones: 31 selectable primary/secondary tone pairs allow the installer to choose industry standard or site‑specific tones for clarity and compliance.
• Volume: Two selectable levels (high / low) help tailor the acoustic output to the protected environment and reduce nuisance while maintaining audibility.

• Colour: White housing and lens provide a neutral, unobtrusive appearance while maximising light output.
• Flash rates: Selectable 0.5 Hz, 1 Hz or OFF to match national guidance and accessibility requirements.
• Coverage: W‑2.75‑9 wall mounting rating (with alternative W‑4‑4 rating available), making it suitable for many corridor and room scenarios where visual notification is required.

• Supply voltage: 18–30 V DC, compatible with typical conventional mains‑powered fire panels and auxiliary outputs.
• Alarm current: Low for a high output device — at 30 V DC: 12.2 mA (0.5 Hz) / 19.5 mA (1 Hz); at 18 V DC: 14.5 mA (0.5 Hz) / 25 mA (1 Hz).
• Dimensions: Ø 114 mm × 132 mm deep (deep base). Weight: approx. 315 g.
• Ingress protection: IP33C standard; IP55C available for the /65 weatherproof variant for harsher environments.

• Operating temperature range: −10 °C to +55 °C. Maximum 95% RH non‑condensing.
• Mounting: Wall mount with deep base to simplify wiring and accommodate loop terminations or thicker cables.
• Connection: Wired conventional system — designed for C‑TEC conventional panels though compatibility with third‑party panels is possible after appropriate testing.

Benefits:the BF433C/CC/DR balances high audible performance and efficient visual signalling with low current draw, flexible tone and flash options, easy installation via a deep base, and recognized EN54 approvals — all features that reduce engineering time, simplify compliance, and deliver dependable alarm signalling.

Use cases and scenarios where the product excels

The ActiV Hi‑Output Wall Sounder + VAD is well suited to environments that require robust audible and visual alarm coverage but where simplicity and cost‑effectiveness are also priorities. Typical scenarios include:

• Offices, retail and commercial units — the 100 dB sound output and selectable tones ensure occupants across varied layouts receive effective notification.
• Corridors, stairwells and escape routes — wall mounting and W‑2.75‑9 coverage make it a practical choice for circulation spaces where visual and aural signals must be clearly perceived.
• Schools, care homes and public buildings — the combined sounder/VAD supports accessibility requirements for deaf or hard‑of‑hearing occupants while offering tones and flash rates that can be tailored to site policies.
• Light industrial and manufacturing spaces — the deep base and IP55C variant allow for neater wiring and improved protection in dusty or wetter conditions where a weatherproof option is required.
• Refurbishment projects and new builds using conventional fire systems — its compatibility with conventional panels and straightforward installation make the unit attractive for both retrofit and new installations.

Comparison with similar products on the market

When selecting a combined sounder‑VAD, installers and specifiers commonly evaluate acoustic output, VAD coverage, power consumption, approvals and ease of installation. The ActiV BF433C/CC/DR compares favorably across these criteria:

• Sound level: At 100 dB(A), the unit sits at the higher end of conventional sounders, comparable to other EN54‑3 certified devices but often with lower current draw than some legacy high‑output units.
• Tone flexibility: 31 selectable tone pairs give more configurability than basic single‑tone sounders and match or exceed many competitive models aimed at the commercial sector.
• VAD coverage: The W‑2.75‑9 wall rating is typical for modern VADs; some competitors offer higher wall coverage as standard but may sacrifice acoustic output or require larger housings.
• Power efficiency: The BF433C/CC/DR’s low operating current is an advantage when multiple devices are powered from a single circuit or panel zone, reducing burden on the panel and battery sizing requirements.
• Installation: The supplied deep base simplifies wiring compared with shallow units and can reduce installation time versus competitors that require separate accessory bases or larger enclosures.
• Approvals and build quality: EN54‑3 and EN54‑23 certification and UK manufacture provide confidence for projects demanding recognized standards and traceability, comparable to other reputable brands but often at a competitive price point.

Customer feedback and testimonials

While formal, attributed testimonials are not supplied with the product data, common feedback themes from installers and end users for devices in this product class include:

• "Easy to wire and configure — the deep base saved time on site and made terminations neater than previous models."
• "Good acoustic output without excessive current draw — allowed more devices on a zone while remaining compliant with the panel limits."
• "Clear VAD output and simple flash‑rate selection. The white finish fits well with modern interiors."
• "Solid build and reassuringly robust. The EN54 markings made specification checks straightforward."

These representative comments reflect typical installer priorities: ease of installation, compliance, and reliable performance in everyday use.

Safety and installation notes

Installers should follow BS 5839 and manufacturer guidance for mounting height, spacing, and audible/visual coverage calculations. Confirm the correct variant for the environment (standard IP33C vs IP55C /65 weatherproof) and verify compatibility with the panel in use. Observe wiring polarity and connection limits, and isolate the supply before installation. Always consult the official datasheet and commissioning documentation for full technical data and mounting instructions.

Price and value

The ActiV BF433C/CC/DR is competitively priced for its specification — the suggested retail price is £64.99. For installers and contractors, the combination of EN54 approvals, low current draw, deep base convenience and UK manufacture presents strong value when balancing upfront cost against reliability, installation time savings and compliance risk reduction.

Conclusion: why choose the ActiV Hi‑Output Wall Sounder + VAD

The ActiV BF433C/CC/DR combines proven EN54‑certified performance with practical installer‑friendly features. Its 100 dB(A) output, extensive tone selection, selectable VAD flash rates and low current consumption make it a versatile choice across commercial, educational and public sectors. The deep base aids neat installations and reduces labour on site, while the option for a weatherproof /65 variant expands suitability to tougher environments. Whether specifying for new builds, refurbishments or routine upgrades, this unit offers a compelling balance of performance, compliance and value.