Introduction to the C-TEC CA430A/DR/65 and its key features
C-TEC CA430A/DR/65is a CAST-protocol, addressable hi-output weatherproof wall sounder designed for reliable audible warning in external and harsh locations. With a listed sound level of 100 dB(A) at 1 m, a deep weatherproof base (IP55 standard on the DR deep-base variant) and an on-board short-circuit loop isolator, this device combines powerful audio performance with robust loop integrity and straightforward installation. It supports CAST addressable features such as group addressing, selectable tones and volume levels, and is EN54-certified for use in life-safety systems when installed according to the manufacturers guidance.
Detailed specifications and the benefits they bring
Understanding the CA430A/DR/65 starts with a look at its key technical specifications and what those specifications mean in practice for installers, system designers and end users.
- Sound level: 100 dB(A) @ 1 m (hi-output) The high output makes the device suitable for noisy or open environments where a strong, attention-grabbing audible signal is required.
- Supply voltage: 2440 V DC (CAST loop typical) Compatible with standard CAST loop supply arrangements, simplifying integration into existing addressable systems.
- Quiescent current: ≈460 A (typical) Low standby current helps minimise loop loading and allows a greater number of devices per loop.
- Alarm current: ≈6.5 mA (typical) Efficient alarm current ensures audible performance while keeping loop power demands modest; actual values depend on loop voltage.
- Tones / volume: 31 selectable tones; 4 volume levels Flexible configuration for different alert protocols and site preferences without the need to change hardware.
- On-board loop isolator Built-in short-circuit isolator improves system resilience by isolating faulted sections of the loop automatically, reducing the risk of a single fault disabling the entire loop.
- Group addressing Addressable grouping simplifies zone control and supports staged evacuation or differentiated alerts across larger sites.
- IP rating: IP55 (deep base) Weatherproof construction protects the electronics from dust ingress and water jets; check the product label for IP65 variants if a higher ingress rating is required.
- Dimensions & weight Diameter 114 mm × depth ~131 mm, weight ≈300 g Compact and lightweight for easy surface or conduit mounting with a deep base for wiring space.
- Operating temperature Typical range 10°C to +55°C (some listings show 25°C to +55°C) Suitable for many external and indoor environments, though installers should verify the specific sub-model rating.
- Certifications EN54-3 and EN54-17 (LPCB) and CAST range EN54-13 compliance listings Provides assurance of performance and compatibility with EN54-compliant systems; always confirm exact certificate numbers on the datasheet/label.
- Protocol & indicators CAST addressable protocol with an onboard polling LED for local status indication and straightforward commissioning.
Benefits at a glance: dependable high SPL for outdoor use, flexible audio options for site-specific signaling, improved loop resilience via the integrated isolator, and certified performance for life-safety applications. The deep base simplifies conduit and surface cable entries, making the unit suitable for new builds and retrofit projects alike.
Use cases and scenarios where the CA430A/DR/65 excels
The CA430A/DR/65 has been designed with external and harsh environments in mind. Typical applications include:
- External building perimeters Where high sound output is required to reach personnel outside or in surrounding areas during an alert.
- Loading bays and delivery yards Open or semi-open areas with background noise benefit from the 100 dB output and selectable tones to ensure clear audible warnings.
- Car parks and multi-storey parking structures Weather exposure, vibration and variable ambient noise levels require rugged, high-output devices.
- Plant rooms and industrial yards The IP55 rating and deep base support installation in dusty or damp environments; the short-circuit isolator helps maintain loop functionality in electrically noisy settings.
- Retrofit and phased installation projects Addressable compatibility and compact footprint make the device convenient to add to existing CAST loops without large rewiring efforts.
Because it supports group addressing and many tones/volume levels, the CA430A/DR/65 can be used flexibly for phased evacuation strategies, location-specific alerts (e.g., testing tones versus evacuation tones), and as part of coordinated multi-device signalling schemes across a site.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating the CA430A/DR/65, it helps to compare it across three dimensions: addressable vs conventional, weatherproof vs indoor-only, and hi-output vs standard sounders.
- Addressable vs conventional sounders Addressable devices like the CA430A provide device-level identification, group addressing and status polling. This reduces manual commissioning effort and improves fault diagnosis versus conventional sounders which are typically wired to a zone control and provide no loop communication.
- Weatherproof vs indoor sounders Many indoor sounders lack the ingress protection and robust housing needed outdoors. The CA430A/DR/65s IP55 rating and deep base make it a better choice for exterior exposures and damp/dirty environments.
- Hi-output vs standard output Standard indoor sounders typically provide lower SPLs suitable for enclosed spaces; for open areas or noisy environments the CA430As 100 dB output gives a clear advantage.
Compared to other addressable weatherproof sounders, the CA430A stands out for its integrated short-circuit isolator, compact deep-base design, and broad selection of tones/volume levels. Installers should consider the CAST protocol compatibility when selecting devices; if a site uses a different addressable protocol, cross-compatibility must be checked. Also review IP rating needs: some projects require IP65 or higher for direct exposure to jets of water, in which case confirm the correct sub-model or consider alternative variants.
Customer testimonials and likely installer feedback
There are no customer testimonials provided here for this specific product. However, based on the CA430A/DR/65s specification and common installer experience with similar devices, typical feedback themes include:
- Positive: Reliable out-of-the-box performance Installers commonly praise the high output, easy loop integration and the convenience of the deep base for surface-mounted conduit runs.
- Positive: Improved system resilience The onboard short-circuit isolator is frequently highlighted as a valuable feature that minimises system downtime in the event of a cable fault.
- Constructive: Verify IP rating for exposed sites Some customers note the importance of checking the product label for IP65 variants if installations demand higher ingress protection than the standard IP55 deep base.
- Constructive: Confirm certification details For projects with strict procurement or certification checks, installers advise confirming exact EN54 certificate numbers and temperature ratings in the official datasheet prior to installation.
These synthesized observations reflect common practical considerations experienced by professionals using hi-output addressable sounders in real-world installations.
Conclusion: Why the CA430A/DR/65 is a great choice
The C-TEC CA430A/DR/65 combines high audible output, addressable flexibility and weatherproof robustness in a compact, installer-friendly package. Its 100 dB(A) output, selectable tones and volume levels suit noisy or open environments, while the deep base facilitates surface and conduit wiring. The built-in short-circuit loop isolator and CAST addressable features improve overall system reliability and simplify commissioning and maintenance. EN54-related certifications provide assurance for life-safety use when the correct sub-model and certificates are confirmed.
For contractors and system designers specifying audible devices for external perimeters, loading areas, car parks or industrial sites, the CA430A/DR/65 is a practical, dependable choice. Always verify the specific sub-model IP rating, operating temperature range and certificate numbers on the official datasheet and product labelling before ordering or installing to ensure full compliance with the projects regulatory and environmental requirements.
