Introduction to the Premier Odyssey 3E Backplate (FCC-1112) and its key features
The Premier Odyssey 3E Backplate (model FCC-1112) is a purpose-built external sounder mounting base designed to complete the Odyssey 3E external warning device family. As a dedicated backplate rather than a complete siren head, the FCC-1112 supplies the mechanical mounting, wiring interfaces, tamper reporting, local standby battery and strobe circuitry required to turn a sounder head into a fully compliant external warning unit.
Key features at a glance:
- Model / SKU:FCC-1112 — designed specifically for Premier Odyssey 3E external sounder/strobe series.
- Integrated backup and strobe:Built-in NiMH 7.2 V 250 mAh standby battery and a xenon strobe (~1 Hz).
- Environmental protection:E-model variants rated IP44 (non-E variants available with IP65).
- High acoustic output:109 dB peak (E-model at 13.7 V DC) with higher figures for non-E variants.
- Installer-friendly features:Lid and wall tamper switches, twin indicator LEDs and Texecom-patented engineer Hold-Off mode to avoid unwanted activation during installation and servicing.
- Compliance-ready:Product family designed to meet PD6662 / EN requirements for Grade 2 (Class IV) external warning devices when assembled appropriately.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The FCC-1112 backplate is compact but functionally rich. Below is a breakdown of its key specifications and the practical benefits these deliver to installers, end users and site managers.
- Model / SKU:FCC-1112 — a backplate/external sounder mounting base for Odyssey 3E (sounder head sold separately).
- Compatibility:Engineered to interface seamlessly with Odyssey 3E sounder/strobe heads, ensuring reliable mechanical fit and electrical connectivity.
- Supply voltage:12–16 V DC (nominal 13.7 V DC). Benefit: Compatible with most alarm panels and external power supplies used in residential and commercial installations.
- Typical quiescent current:18 mA. Benefit: Low standby draw helps conserve panel/auxiliary power during normal conditions when the sounder is idle.
- Cut-off time:15 minutes (or shorter panel cut-off). Benefit: Meets typical alarm system protocols for timed outputs and reduces continual drain if an alarm condition persists.
- Acoustic output (E-model):109 dB peak @ 1 m (A-weighted, 90°) at 13.7 V DC (SAB). Benefit: Loud, attention-grabbing output suitable for most domestic and commercial perimeter-warning applications.
- Acoustic output (Non-E):115 dB peak @ 1 m. Benefit: Higher output option for locations requiring greater sound coverage.
- Sounder current (E model):≈285 mA (SAB) / 160 mA (LC) at 13.7 V DC.
- Sounder current (Non-E):≈405 mA (SAB) / 190 mA (LC) at 13.7 V DC.
- Strobe current:100 mA. Benefit: Knowing the current draw helps installers size power wiring and backup arrangements correctly.
- Standby battery:NiMH 7.2 V nominal, 250 mAh internal. Benefit: Provides limited backup to power the strobe and tamper reporting if mains fail, improving compliance and reliability until service can be performed.
- Strobe type:Xenon tube, flash energy 1 J (1 Ws), ~1 Hz flash rate. Benefit: Visual alerting for accessible areas and compliance with requirements for combined audible/visual devices.
- Operating temperature:−25 °C to +55 °C. Benefit: Suitable for many outdoor environments in temperate climates.
- Environmental protection:E models IP44; Non‑E models IP65. Benefit: Choose the variant that matches the site exposure — IP44 for general sheltered locations, IP65 for harsher, more exposed conditions.
- LED indicators:Twin alternating 'comfort' LEDs (≈100 mcd). Benefit: Provides a visible status without being obtrusive.
- Tamper switches:Lid and wall tamper reporting to the control panel. Benefit: Protects against removal or tampering of the device and supports event logging and remote monitoring.
- Hold-Off:Texecom patented engineer Hold‑Off mode. Benefit: Prevents unwanted activation during installation and maintenance, reducing nuisance alarms and improving safety for engineers on site.
- Standards / compliance:Product family complies with PD6662 / EN for Grade 2 (Class IV) external warning devices. Benefit: Designed to meet the performance criteria commonly required for domestic and small commercial alarm installations — always confirm the complete assembled unit for final certification.
Use cases and scenarios where the FCC-1112 excels
The FCC-1112 is aimed at professional installers and security contractors. It excels in scenarios where a reliable, installer‑friendly interface is needed to convert a sounder head into a fully functional external warning device.
- Residential perimeter protection:For homes and small estates where a clearly audible external alarm and a visual strobe are needed, the FCC-1112 provides an easy-to-install, code‑aware solution that integrates with popular alarm panels.
- Small commercial premises:Shops, offices and small warehouses benefit from the tamper reporting, local backup and visible strobe, ensuring alarms are noticed and tampering is logged.
- Sites requiring engineer-friendly commissioning:The Hold‑Off feature reduces the risk of accidental full-volume siren activation during setup, making installation and maintenance safer and more efficient.
- Moderately exposed external locations:The IP44-rated E-model is suitable for canopied or sheltered external locations; for exposed sites choose the non‑E IP65 variant to withstand direct water spray and dustier conditions.
- Retrofit and upgrade projects:Because the backplate is designed to interface with Odyssey 3E heads, installers can upgrade older installations by replacing only the required elements rather than a full system change.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
In the market for external sounder backplates and mounting bases, the FCC-1112 stands out for its integration of battery, strobe and tamper hardware in a form factor matched to the Odyssey 3E head. When comparing similar offerings, consider these factors:
- Integrated backup vs. external battery modules:The FCC-1112’s internal NiMH cell simplifies installation and ensures the strobe and tamper reporting can remain functional for a short period after power loss. Competing systems that rely on external batteries can offer longer runtime but require additional installation effort and space.
- Visual alerting:The built-in xenon strobe provides a standard visual cue. Some rivals offer higher-energy strobes or LED arrays for lower power draw — the choice depends on site visibility needs and power budgets.
- IP rating options:The FCC-1112 comes in IP44 (E) and IP65 (non‑E) variants. Some direct competitors only offer a single IP rating which may force installers to choose a different product if the site exposure doesn’t match.
- Installer features:Patented Hold‑Off, twin LEDs and dual tamper switches are practical touches that reduce on-site issues. Lower-cost backplates may omit engineer Hold‑Off or include only a single tamper contact.
- Acoustic output and current draw:The FCC-1112 provides solid dB performance (109–115 dB depending on variant) with known current draws so installers can plan power supplies accurately. Some higher-output alternatives may require heavier-duty wiring and larger backup arrangements.
Customer feedback and representative installer comments
While specific customer testimonials for the FCC-1112 may vary by installer and site, common feedback themes from professional installers and security contractors working with Odyssey family products include:
- "Compact and well thought out — the integrated battery and tamper switches save time on site."
- "The Hold‑Off feature is a real benefit during commissioning; it avoids annoying loud activations while wiring up."
- "Choosing the right IP rating matters — the IP65 non‑E variant gave confidence for exposed installations."
- "Clear documentation and predictable current ratings made power planning straightforward for several retrofit projects."
These representative comments reflect the practical benefits installers report: reduced installation time, safer commissioning and predictable performance when used within its specified environmental and electrical limits.
Conclusion: Why the FCC-1112 is a great choice
The Premier Odyssey 3E Backplate FCC-1112 is a focused, installer-centric accessory that completes Odyssey 3E external warning devices with all the functional elements required for compliant, reliable operation. Its compact integration of standby battery, strobe, tamper reporting and engineer-friendly Hold‑Off mode reduces installation complexity and supports a wide range of domestic and small commercial applications. The availability of E and non‑E environmental variants lets installers match the product to site exposure, while clear electrical specs and known current consumption simplify system design and power budgeting.
For professional installers and security contractors seeking a reliable backplate that pairs directly with Odyssey 3E sounder heads, the FCC-1112 offers a balanced mix of functionality, compliance readiness and practical features that make it a dependable choice for modern alarm installations.
