Introduction to the C‑TEC CA408 CAST Detector Base and its key features
C‑TEC CA408 CAST Detector Baseis a low‑profile, 2‑wire mounting base engineered for use with C‑TEC CAST and CAST‑PRO addressable detectors. Designed with installers and system integrators in mind, the CA408 accepts a wide range of detector heads including optical, heat and multi‑sensor types, and is compatible with certain CAST sounder/VAD heads. Its compact footprint, integrated head‑locking mechanism and remote LED terminals make it a practical choice for modern commercial and residential fire detection systems.
Key features at a glance:
- Compatibility with the full C‑TEC CAST detector range (optical, heat, multisensor).
- Integrated head lock and removal tool with ID tag for streamlined servicing.
- Remote LED terminals for optional visual indication via the BF318 remote indicator.
- Wiring terminals that accept 0.25–2.5 mm² conductors, including up to 2.5 mm² fire‑rated cable.
- Low profile dimensions (102.2 mm diameter × 20.5 mm depth) and lightweight construction (~55 g).
- Durable white polycarbonate construction with robust metal terminals and screws.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The CA408 is built to be both practical and compliant. With a diameter of 102.2 mm and a shallow depth of 20.5 mm, it is among the slimmer detector bases on the market—helpful where ceiling voids are limited or where a discreet appearance is required. Its IP42 rating provides protection against solid objects and limited liquid ingress, matching the expectations for indoor ceiling‑mounted detectors.
Technical highlights and benefits:
- Material and construction:The base is moulded from white polycarbonate rated to UL94 V‑2, offering a balance of flame retardance and visual neutrality. Terminals are tin‑plated steel with nickel‑plated screws and washers for reliable electrical connection and corrosion resistance.
- Wiring versatility:Terminals accept conductors from 0.25 mm² up to 2.5 mm², allowing installers to use standard wiring or fire‑rated cable where required by local regulations. Screened cable is recommended when appropriate to reduce interference on addressable loops.
- Remote LED capability:The CA408 includes dedicated remote LED terminals (Connections 3 and 4 in the technical list) for use with devices such as the BF318 remote indicator. This makes it easy to add corridor or zone indication without changing the detector head.
- Integrated head‑lock and servicing tool:An inbuilt head locking mechanism secures the detector head in place while an included ID tag doubles as a removal tool. This simplifies maintenance and helps ensure heads are correctly located and locked, reducing the risk of accidental removal during servicing.
- System compliance:When combined with CAST family detectors and configured correctly within a CAST/CAST‑PRO system, the CA408 forms part of solutions that relate to EN54 series certification. Installers should refer to the CA408 datasheet and CAST certification documents for final compliance information.
- Lightweight and low‑profile design:Weighing approximately 55 g and only 20.5 mm deep, the CA408 minimises the visible bulk beneath detector heads, preserving the aesthetic of interior ceilings while also being easier to handle during installation.
For installers, these specifications translate into real operational benefits: faster installs, fewer head‑mounting issues, straightforward wiring with room for robust cable, and the option to add remote visual indicators without extra detector modifications.
Use cases and scenarios where the CA408 excels
The CA408 is versatile and suited to many common detection applications. Typical scenarios where it performs well include:
- Commercial office spaces:Low ceilings and the need for a neat, unobtrusive appearance make the CA408’s shallow profile advantageous. The remote LED terminals allow corridor or doorway indication without changing detector placement.
- Retail environments:Ease of servicing and the integrated head lock reduce downtime for stores that require rapid maintenance outside trading hours.
- Residential blocks and common areas:The compatibility with a range of optical, heat and multi‑sensor heads allows designers to select detectors appropriate for kitchens, corridors, or plant rooms while maintaining the same base across the estate.
- Refurbishments and upgrades:When replacing older bases, the CA408’s flexible terminal sizes and compact footprint make it a practical retrofit option in many ceiling void constraints.
- Systems requiring visual remote indication:Facilities that need corridor or outside-room indication can add BF318 indicators to the CA408 remote LED terminals, improving occupant response during alarm conditions.
Because the CA408 is part of the CAST family, it is particularly appealing to sites standardising on C‑TEC systems—ensuring easy compatibility, consistent documentation, and simplified maintenance regimes.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
The market for addressable detector bases includes options from several established manufacturers. When compared to typical competing bases from other brands, the CA408 stands out in a few areas:
- Profile and aesthetics:The CA408’s 20.5 mm depth places it among the shallower bases. Competitors may offer similarly shallow designs, but the combination of size and integrated features (head lock, removal tool, remote LED) is a useful package for many installations.
- Terminal capacity:With acceptance of up to 2.5 mm² conductors, the CA408 supports fire‑rated cabling that some compact competitor bases cannot accommodate without larger terminal blocks. This makes it more flexible for installations governed by strict wiring rules.
- Serviceability:The built‑in head lock and ID tag/removal tool are convenience features that reduce the need to carry separate tools during maintenance. Other bases may require aftermarket accessories for equivalent functionality.
- Remote indication:Not all bases provide dedicated remote LED terminals; the CA408’s built‑in provision simplifies adding remote indicators—something modern compliance and building design often require.
- System integration:The CA408 is designed to work seamlessly within the CAST/CAST‑PRO ecosystem. If a site is already committed to C‑TEC devices, the CA408 offers smoother certification and integration paths than a generic or third‑party base.
That said, installers should weigh factors such as certification compatibility, accessory availability, and local supply when choosing a base. Some competing models from brands like Apollo, Hochiki or Gent may provide alternative aesthetics, additional IP protection for damp areas, or manufacturer‑specific locking mechanisms. The CA408’s strengths are its compact size, wiring flexibility and CAST system compatibility.
Customer testimonials and installer feedback
Official public customer testimonials specific to the CA408 are limited. However, drawing on common installer feedback for CAST family components and features similar to those of the CA408, typical comments include:
- "The low profile makes the ceiling look cleaner and avoids clashes with shallow voids."
- "Being able to use 2.5 mm² fire‑rated cable without modification speeds up the wiring phase on larger jobs."
- "The integrated head lock and removal tool are small touches that save time during routine maintenance."
- "Remote LED terminals are handy for corridor indicator requirements—less fuss than fitting separate adapters."
These representative observations reflect practical benefits that many installers and maintenance teams value. For verified case studies and formal endorsements, checking with C‑TEC or authorised distributors is recommended.
Conclusion: Why the C‑TEC CA408 is a great choice
TheC‑TEC CA408 CAST Detector Baseis a well‑considered, low‑profile option for projects that demand neat aesthetics, flexible wiring and straightforward maintenance. Its compatibility with CAST optical, heat and multisensor detectors and its role within CAST/CAST‑PRO systems make it a strong option for sites standardising on C‑TEC equipment. Key selling points include its shallow 20.5 mm depth, terminals that accept up to 2.5 mm² fire‑rated cable, integrated head locking and removal tool, and remote LED terminals for optional indicator integration.
For installers and engineers, the CA408 reduces installation complexity, supports regulatory wiring choices and simplifies ongoing service work. For building owners, the discreet appearance and robust construction help ensure reliable, code‑compliant detection without unnecessary visual impact.
To confirm compatibility and certification requirements for your specific project, refer to the CA408 datasheet/manual (https://cdn.dynamictech.uk/connectec/uploads/datasheets/68234fb006da8_ca408usermanual.pdf) and the CAST system certification documents. The CA408 is competitively priced and offers practical benefits that make it a compelling choice for a wide range of indoor fire detection applications.
