Introduction to the Texecom Premier Elite Odyssey 4-W Sounder Backplate
The Texecom Premier Elite Odyssey 4-W (GBS-0001) is a purpose-built wireless external sounder backplate designed for Premier Elite intrusion systems. Combining high acoustic output, a bright LED strobe and Ricochet mesh wireless technology, this unit provides a professional external signalling solution for domestic and commercial alarm installations. Weatherproof construction and long-life battery operation make it a versatile choice where a robust, high-visibility deterrent is required.
Key features at a glance
- Ricochet mesh wireless:relays signals to extend range and reliability across a Premier Elite system.
- High acoustic output:up to 105 dB peak at 1 m for an attention-grabbing audible alarm.
- Powerful LED strobe:320 lm high-power strobe for visible external signalling.
- Battery powered:supplied with 8 × AA lithium cells; typical service life 2–5 years depending on use.
- Weatherproof:IP65-sealed electronics and conformal-coated PCB for reliable outdoor use.
- Security-minded design:wall and lid tamper detection and compatibility with Grade 2 / Class IV standards as specified.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the technical details helps clarify why the Odyssey 4-W backplate is effective in real-world installations. Below is a summary of the product’s core specifications and the practical benefits they bring.
- Supply:12 V DC via supplied battery pack. The battery-powered design avoids mains wiring for faster, lower-cost installation and placement flexibility.
- Battery type:8 × AA lithium cells supplied. Lithium cells provide higher capacity and improved temperature performance compared with alkaline cells, helping achieve the stated 2–5 year typical life under normal use.
- Selectable cut-off:Alarm cut-off time selectable at 3 or 15 minutes, allowing installers to tailor alarm duration to local requirements or customer preference.
- Strobe output:320 lumens from the high-power LED strobe offers strong daytime and nighttime visibility to aid deterrence and rapid recognition of an alarm condition.
- Comfort LEDs:Low-brightness status LEDs (approx. 100 mcd) flash at set intervals to show unit health or system status without the full strobe firing—helpful for maintenance checks and visual confirmation without causing nuisance glare.
- Acoustic output:Rated at up to 105 dB peak at 1 m (manufacturer data). This places the unit among the more powerful external sounders, improving the chance of alarming and alerting nearby neighbours or passers-by.
- Operating range:Engineered for residential, commercial and industrial EMC environments with operating temperatures from −25 °C to +55 °C and storage to +60 °C.
- Ingress protection:IP65-rated housing and conformal-coated PCB for protection against dust and low-pressure water jets, suitable for exposed external placements.
- Construction:3 mm polycarbonate material provides impact resistance and weather durability while keeping weight modest (packed weight approx. 730 g).
- Tamper detection:Wall and lid tamper contacts support integration with the alarm panel for anti-tamper alerts, an important requirement for external signalling devices.
- Dimensions:310 × 196 × 58.5 mm — compact enough for inconspicuous mounting but large enough to house the acoustic and optical components.
Use cases and ideal scenarios
The Odyssey 4-W backplate excels where reliable, visible and audible external signalling is required without the complexity of hardwired sounders. Typical use cases include:
- Detached and semi-detached homes:For homeowners who want a high-output external alarm with minimal disruption from wiring work. Battery operation and Ricochet mesh integration make this an attractive retrofit or new-install option.
- Small commercial premises:Shops, offices and small warehouses benefit from the combination of a bright strobe and 105 dB sound pressure to deter intruders and attract attention quickly.
- Sites with challenging cable runs:Properties where running external mains or alarm cabling would be costly or aesthetic-sensitive—wireless relays provided by Ricochet can bridge distances and obstructions.
- Systems requiring Grade 2/Class IV signalling:Where specifications call for compliance with PD6662/EN50131 as specified by Texecom, the product provides the relevant features for many installations (verify local regulatory requirements and panel compatibility).
- Installer-focused deployments:Professional installers deploying Premier Elite systems who require a factory-supported Ricochet device that integrates seamlessly with panel firmware and system features.
How it compares with similar products
When considering external sounders, buyers typically weigh wired vs wireless, acoustic power, visual signalling, ingress protection and system compatibility. Here’s how the Odyssey 4-W stacks up across those dimensions:
- Wireless vs wired sounders:Wired external sounders remove battery replacement concerns, but involve cabling costs and potential aesthetic impact. The Odyssey 4-W removes cable runs and leverages Ricochet to maintain signal reliability, making it competitive for retrofit and quick-install projects.
- Ricochet mesh vs single-hop wireless:Simple single-hop wireless devices can be vulnerable to range and obstruction issues. Ricochet provides multi-hop relaying to extend range and resilience, a clear advantage in larger properties or those with challenging RF environments.
- Acoustic comparison:At 105 dB peak, the Odyssey is on the higher end of external wireless sounders. Some wired sirens may reach similar or slightly higher continuous SPLs, but few wireless units combine this decibel level with battery operation and IP65 protection.
- Visual signalling:The 320 lm strobe offers strong visibility. Some competing external sounders use lower-output strobes or rely solely on flash patterns; the high lumen rating here is beneficial for daytime visibility and non-ambiguous alarm signalling.
- Build and weather protection:IP65 and conformal-coated PCB are industry-standard for quality external devices. Cheaper alternatives may have reduced ingress protection and shorter lifespans in exposed environments.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
While individual reviews will vary by site and installer experience, common themes from installers and end users who specify Ricochet-enabled Texecom external sounders include:
- "Reliable wireless range when configured with Ricochet relays" — installers note improved connectivity across challenging sites compared with older single-hop devices.
- "Impressive volume for a battery device" — end users and contractors often remark that the 105 dB rating is noticeable and effective for deterrence.
- "Low maintenance" — the long-life AA lithium battery pack and selectable cut-off help minimize service visits compared with devices that drain batteries quickly.
- "Build quality and compliance features" — tamper detection, polycarbonate housing and IP65 rating are highlighted as important for external installations where durability matters.
Note: Always consult independent reviews, installer forums and accredited security suppliers for site-specific feedback. Confirm panel firmware compatibility and whether an Odyssey cover is supplied with your purchase (covers are often sold separately).
Conclusion: Why choose the Odyssey 4-W backplate?
The Texecom Premier Elite Odyssey 4-W (GBS-0001) backplate is a well-rounded external signalling solution for Premier Elite alarm systems. It balances high acoustic output and a bright strobe with wireless convenience and weatherproof durability. Ricochet mesh technology and tamper detection make it suitable for professional installations where reliability and compliance matter. For homeowners, small businesses and installers seeking a wireless external sounder that delivers strong deterrence without the complication of mains wiring, the Odyssey 4-W is a compelling option.
Before purchase or installation, verify compatibility with your Premier Elite control panel and the required Ricochet firmware, and consult the Texecom installation manual for safe and compliant installation. When deployed correctly, this device provides an effective mix of visibility, audibility and resilience for external alarm signalling.
