Introduction to the Texecom Odyssey 3E Back Assembly (Blue LED)
Texecom Odyssey 3E Back Assembly FCC-1593 — Blue LEDis a purpose-built electronics and backplate module for the Odyssey 3E external sounder. Designed for professional residential and commercial alarm installations, this module provides a weather-resistant enclosed electronics assembly with an integrated blue indicator LED, tamper detection, and Texecoms patented engineer hold-off feature. Intended to be combined with the Odyssey cover/bell box (sold separately), the FCC-1593 back assembly brings reliable audible and visual deterrence, flexible low-current operating modes, and features that simplify installation and maintenance.
Key features at a glance
- 109 dB(A)peak output in SAB mode for visible deterrent and wide audible coverage.
- IP44 weather-resistant enclosed electronics suitable for most external installations.
- Lid and wall tamper detection with configurable tamper LED/flash behaviour.
- Texecoms patentedengineer hold-offto prevent accidental sounding during installation or service.
- Selectable low-current modes to reduce panel load and allow multiple sounders on one circuit.
- Internal NiMH standby battery support (7.2 V, 250 mAh) and a 1 Ws xenon flash tube (~1 Hz) for visual signalling.
Detailed specifications and the benefits they deliver
Understanding the specification sheet helps explain why the Odyssey 3E back assembly is well suited to professional alarm work. The FCC-1593 combines robust electrical design, environmental protection, and installer-friendly features:
- Supply voltage:12 6 V DC (13.7 V nominal) This common alarm supply range makes the module compatible with most control panels used in residential and commercial systems.
- Current drain:Strobe 100 mA; Ody 3E 285 / 160 / 30 mA (mode dependent); Quiescent 18 mA Selectable modes let you trade loudness or functionality for lower standby and active currents, which is essential when multiple external sounders share a panel output.
- Standby battery:NiMH 7.2 V, 250 mAh Internal rechargeable backup keeps the unit operational if mains power is lost, supporting integrity and compliance in critical events.
- Flash tube:1 Ws xenon, ~1 Hz A visible strobe complements the audible alarm and helps draw attention in noisy environments or where visual indication is required.
- Sound output:109 dB(A) peak at 1 m (SAB mode) Very high sound pressure for effective external deterrence and to maximise the chance of detection by neighbours and passers-by.
- Cut-off time:< 15 minutes Meets typical external alarm duration expectations and helps to limit nuisance running.
- Operating temperature:25 C to +55 C;Storage temperature:25 C to +60 C Suitable for a wide range of climates encountered in the UK and many other regions.
- EMC environment:Residential / Commercial / Industrial Designed to perform reliably across common installation environments.
- Ingress protection:IP44 Weather-resistant electronics enclosure for protection against splashing water and solid objects greater than 1 mm.
- Material:3 mm polycarbonate Durable, UV-resistant and impact-resistant for outdoor use when paired with the correct cover.
- Tamper detection:Wall & lid tamper Improves the security of the device by detecting unauthorised removal or interference.
- Dimensions:315 306 78 mm (H W D) Designed to fit the Odyssey enclosures.
- Standards:PD6662:2010 Grade 2 Class IV; EN50131-1 / EN50131-4 Grade 2 Class IV (Odyssey 3E) Conforms to accepted UK/European alarm performance classes when combined with the Odyssey enclosure and installed per guidance.
Benefits for installers and end users
- Professional fit and finish:The enclosed electronics module drops into the Odyssey cover to form a neat external bellbox that meets industry expectations for durability and appearance.
- Reduced false activations during service:Engineer hold-off prevents the siren from sounding during commissioning or maintenance, avoiding nuisance calls and safety issues.
- Lower panel loading:Selectable low-current operating modes enable multiple external sounders to be installed on the same system without overloading the alarm panels outputs.
- Tamper protection:Dual tamper (wall and lid) gives integrators and end users confidence that tampering attempts will be detected and reported.
- Reliable signalling:The combination of a loud 109 dB sounder and xenon strobe provides both audible and visual warning, improving detection and deterrence effectiveness.
Use cases and scenarios where the FCC-1593 excels
The Odyssey 3E back assembly is targeted at professional installers and sites that require robust external signalling. Typical scenarios include:
- Residential perimeter protection:Detached houses, small estates and neighbourhood properties where a visible, loud external alarm boosts deterrence and neighbours awareness.
- Commercial premises:Retail units, small offices and warehouses where an external sounder is required to signal intrusions and discourage break-ins.
- Replacement or upgrade projects:When an existing Odyssey enclosure needs a modern electronics refresh or when replacing a failed back assembly without changing the covering bell box.
- Service-priority sites:Installations where engineers perform maintenance frequently and engineer hold-off prevents accidental sounding during service calls, such as managed buildings and serviced offices.
- Multi-sounder systems:Sites that need several external sounders driven from one panel; the low-current modes reduce wiring complexity and panel load concerns.
Comparisons with similar products
Within the external sounder market, several factors distinguish the Odyssey 3E back assembly from alternatives:
- Engineer hold-off:Not all competing sounder modules include a patented hold-off feature. This is particularly valuable for professional installers who need to commission and service systems safely.
- Tamper integration:The inclusion of both lid and wall tamper as standard gives it an edge over basic sounders that offer limited tamper protection.
- Selectable low-current modes:Many economy sounders simply draw a fixed high current; Odysseys mode options enable more flexible and scalable system design.
- Standby battery and strobe:Some external sounders omit internal backup batteries or strobes to cut cost. FCC-1593s integrated NiMH backup and xenon flash deliver a more complete signalling package.
- Standards compliance:When used as part of the Odyssey 3E system and installed according to Texecom guidance, the product meets PD6662/EN50131 Grade 2 Class IV performance, which may not be true for generic unbranded sounders.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
Where reviews are available, professional installers and integrators commonly highlight the following:
- Ease of installation when paired with Odyssey enclosures straightforward cabling and clear tamper options reduce install time.
- Reliability in outdoor conditions IP44-rated electronics and robust polycarbonate construction give confidence in exposed locations.
- Useful engineer hold-off feature installers value the ability to safely perform maintenance without nuisance sounding.
Example installer comments often mirror these points: Solid, well thought-through module; the engineer hold-off saves time on site and Good sound output and tamper options, fits the existing Odyssey cover perfectly. These reflect typical professional sentiment rather than specific public reviews.
Conclusion: why choose the Texecom Odyssey 3E Back Assembly FCC-1593?
The Texecom Odyssey 3E Back Assembly (Blue LED) is a practical, well-specified electronics module for external alarm sounders. It combines a high 109 dB(A) output and visible xenon strobe with installer-friendly features such as engineer hold-off, tamper detection, selectable low-current modes, and integrated battery backup. For professional installers replacing or upgrading Odyssey enclosures, or for new installs where reliable external signalling and serviceability are priorities, the FCC-1593 delivers performance and flexibility at a competitive suggested price point (suggested price 34.99). When used as part of a complete Odyssey 3E installation and following Texecoms installation guidance, it supports compliance with relevant Grade 2 alarm standards and provides a durable, effective deterrent for residential and commercial sites.
Whether you are specifying equipment for a small commercial site, upgrading an older alarm, or fitting external deterrence on a residential property, the Odyssey 3E back assembly is a strong choice where reliability, serviceability and proven alarm performance matter.
