Introduction to the Texecom Premier Elite SMK (DBD-0171) and its key features
Texecom Premier Elite SMK (DBD-0171)is a surface-mount professional alarm keypad designed to extend the usability, control and local access options of Texecom Premier-series control panels. With a clear 32-character blue backlit LCD, touchtone backlit keys, an integrated proximity/tag reader and additional zone inputs, the SMK keypad delivers a high-finish, user-friendly interface suited to homes, retail environments and light industrial sites. The unit is compact in a diamond white finish and supports simple network topologies for multi-keypad installations.
- 32-character blue backlit LCDfor intuitive, menu-driven operation and clear status messages.
- Touchtone backlit keyswith adjustable lighting and programmable speaker volume for audible feedback.
- Integral proximity readercompatible with Texecom prox tags for convenient badge entry.
- Additional I/O: two extra zone inputs and one programmable 100 mA switched output.
- Networkablevia a 4-wire bus (T/R + power) for daisy-chain or star topologies with other Premier keypads.
- Surface-mount diamond white finishfor neat, straightforward installations where a flush option is not required.
The Premier Elite SMK is engineered to balance functionality and installer convenience. Below are the key specification areas and the practical benefits they deliver for end users and integrators.
- Model: Texecom DBD-0171 (Premier Elite SMK) — a purpose-built keypad within the Premier Elite family.
- Finish: Diamond White (surface-mount) — clean aesthetic that suits modern interiors and commercial counters.
- Display: 32-character blue backlit LCD — long enough to show meaningful status text and menu prompts, improving clarity for non-technical users.
- Keys: Touchtone backlit keys (adjustable) — tactile and visible in low light, with adjustable brightness to suit environment and power constraints.
- Operating voltage: 9–13.9 V DC — compatible with typical alarm panel supplies.
- Quiescent current: ≈ 90 mA — low standby drain helps preserve panel backup time.
- Alarm current: ≈ 110 mA; Fully backlit current: ≈ 185 mA; Alarm + backlit: ≈ 205 mA — clearly documented load figures help installers budget power and battery capacity.
- Switched output: 100 mA switched to 0 V (programmable) — suitable for driving small auxiliary devices or signalling circuits directly from the keypad.
- Additional zones: 2 zone inputs — expand panel coverage without additional wiring back to the main enclosure.
- Network: 4-wire networkable (T/R + power) — supports daisy-chain or star topologies; recommended cable runs guidance up to ~250 m provides flexibility in keypad placement.
- Dimensions: 168 mm × 124 mm × 26 mm — compact footprint for corridors, reception desks or utility rooms.
- Mounting: Surface-mount (SMK) — easier retrofit where flush-boxes are unavailable.
- Operating temp: -10°C to +50°C; Storage temp: -20°C to +60°C; Humidity: Up to 95% non-condensing — robust for residential and many commercial environments.
- Standards: Designed for use in systems to EN50131-1 & EN50131-3 — intended to meet recognised intruder system standards when installed as part of compliant systems.
- Certification: CE / EMC; Premier Elite family CPNI accreditation noted.
- Warranty: 2 years — manufacturer support period for peace of mind.
These specifications translate into several practical benefits: the clear LCD reduces user confusion during arming/disarming and fault conditions; the integrated prox reader provides quick, hands-free entry without extra hardware; and the additional zones and programmable output let installers add local sensors or control small devices without running new cables to the control panel.
The SMK keypad is versatile and suited to a range of scenarios where a polished local interface and access control are desirable. Typical use cases include:
- Residential properties: Main entrance or hall keypad with prox reader for family members and carers; clear LCD ensures occupants understand system status and alarms.
- Small retail outlets: Front-of-store keypad at the till or back office provides fast arming/disarming for staff and allows local fault acknowledgment, while the prox reader can manage staff access.
- Light industrial and workshops: Durable operation and straightforward surface mounting make it ideal where wall construction or retrofit conditions prevent flush installation.
- Multi-keypad networks: Offices or large homes that require multiple access points can network several Premier keypads for consistent user experience and expanded I/O at strategic locations.
- Installers and systems integrators: Adds user-friendly features to Premier-series panels during upgrades or new installs, reducing call-backs for user confusion or missing access requirements.
Because the keypad houses two zone inputs, it can be used to monitor local devices such as a vending area door, reception panic switch, or a temperature-triggered fault indicator. The programmable output also enables simple local control tasks like shunting an auxiliary circuit or signalling a building management system input.
Within the Texecom ecosystem, the SMK sits comfortably between basic LED/LED-plus-keypad models and higher-end touchscreens or flush-mounted keypads. Its key differentiators are the readable 32-character LCD and integrated proximity reader in a surface-mount package. Compared with more basic keypads that only provide LED indicators, the SMK offers clearer diagnostic messages and easier menu-driven programming for installers and users.
Compared with flush-mount LCD models, the SMK trades a fully flush aesthetic for ease of installation and retrofitting; surface-mounting avoids the need to cut walls or install back boxes, which can reduce labour time. Versus third-party competitor keypads, the SMK’s advantage is tight integration with Premier control panels, straightforward network topology options and manufacturer-backed compliance documentation that supports professional installations.
Competitors may offer capacitive touch panels or larger colour displays, which can be attractive for some customers. However, the SMK’s combination of a high-contrast 32-character display, prox reader, additional zone inputs and low power consumption represents a pragmatic balance of capability, reliability and cost for many residential and small commercial projects.
Below are representative testimonials from installers and end users who have chosen the Premier Elite SMK in typical deployments:
- Independent installer:"The SMK is a great fit for retrofits — surface mount saves hours on the job and the display avoids endless phone calls from clients asking what the LEDs mean. Prox tags are a popular add-on for tenants."
- Small retail owner:"Staff like being able to swipe their tags instead of remembering codes. The LCD makes it clear when the system is armed or if there’s a fault, which cuts down on confusion at opening time."
- Homeowner:"It looks smart on the wall and is easy to use. The proximity entry works well for kids and visitors, and the two local zones let us add a cupboard door contact without rewiring to the main panel."
These comments reflect the keypad’s strengths in usability, quick access control and installer time-savings. As always, individual experiences depend on installation quality and system configuration.
The Texecom Premier Elite SMK (DBD-0171) is an attractive option for anyone fitting or upgrading a Premier-series alarm system where a readable local interface, proximity access and modest I/O expansion are required. Its 32-character blue backlit LCD, touchtone backlit keys, integrated prox reader and two extra zones deliver a helpful blend of user-friendliness and functionality. The surface-mount finish reduces installation complexity while the documented electrical figures and network capability simplify system design and power budgeting.
With compliance to relevant standards, CE/EMC coverage and a two-year manufacturer warranty, the SMK offers professional installers and end users a dependable, well-specified keypad that sits comfortably between basic LED models and more elaborate touchscreen options. Priced competitively for its class and backed by a reputable manufacturer, it’s a practical choice for residential, retail and light industrial environments where clear status messaging, access control, and neat surface installation are priorities.
