Introduction to the Texecom Odyssey 2 Dummy Backplate (FCB-0049)
The Texecom Odyssey 2 Dummy Backplate (FCB-0049) is a purpose-built visual deterrent designed to visually extend the coverage of a sites alarm system without providing any audible or electronic signalling. Supplied as a backplate only, the FCB-0049 accepts Odyssey 2 covers (for example, FCB-0101) so it presents the same finished appearance as a functioning Odyssey 2 bellbox. Its lightweight plastic construction and low price point make it a practical option where visible presence is more important than active alarm performance.
Key features at a glance
- Dummy/decoy backplate:No electronics, piezo, strobe, battery or alarm function purely visual.
- Compatibility:Designed to accept Odyssey 2 covers/lids (e.g. FCB-0101) for a consistent visual appearance across a site.
- Construction:Durable plastic / polycarbonate-style material consistent with the Odyssey family aesthetics.
- Low cost:Intended as an economical way to increase visible deterrent coverage.
- Product ID:Part number FCB-0049, manufacturer Texecom, supplier code ITM004130.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The FCB-0049 is intentionally simple by design: it contains no electronics and functions only as an outer enclosure/backplate. This simplicity is both its core characteristic and its advantage in certain deployments.
- Part number:FCB-0049
- Manufacturer:Texecom
- Product type:Dummy backplate (no electronics)
- Compatible cover:Texecom Odyssey 2 covers (e.g. FCB-0101)
- Material:Durable plastic / polycarbonate-style
- Electronics:None (backplate only)
- Shipping weight:~0.5 kg (distributor listing)
- Dimensions:INSUFFICIENT DATA (consult Texecom spec sheet)
- IP rating:INSUFFICIENT DATA (consult Texecom spec sheet)
- Supplier code:ITM004130
- Notes:Supplied as backplate only; accepts Odyssey 2 lids
Benefits of these characteristics include:
- Cost efficiency:The FCB-0049 is priced and positioned as a low-cost way to increase visible alarm coverage where sounders are unnecessary or inappropriate.
- Uniform appearance:When fitted with matching Odyssey 2 covers, dummy units blend visually with real sounders so a perimeter or facade looks consistently protected.
- Low maintenance:No electronics means no batteries, wiring or scheduled maintenance for the unit itself.
- Flexible placement:Because it has no active components, it can be mounted in locations where wiring or power access would be difficult or costly.
Use cases and scenarios where the FCB-0049 excels
The Texecom Odyssey 2 dummy backplate is explicitly designed for situations where visual deterrence is required but an audible or visible alarm output is not necessary or desirable. Typical scenarios include:
Large industrial sites, retail parks or school campuses often have a limited number of active sounders due to budget or wiring constraints. By placing dummy backplates between real sounders, installers create the impression of continuous coverage that discourages opportunistic intruders without the cost of additional active sounders.
Fences, gates and boundary walls benefit from visible alarm housings that signal security presence. The lightweight FCB-0049 is a neat, low-cost option for repeating the look of alarm boxes along perimeters where audible signalling is not required or would be disruptive.
In shopfronts or indoor mall locations where an active sounder would be inappropriate or lead to false alarms, dummy units can maintain a consistent security appearance while avoiding unnecessary noise or intruder alerts.
For sites undergoing phased upgrades, refurbishment or temporary closures, dummy backplates provide a quick way to keep up appearances while permanent alarm hardware is planned or installed.
Installation, compliance and limitations
Because the FCB-0049 contains no electronics, mounting is straightforward but must still follow Texecoms installation guidance for Odyssey products. Key points to bear in mind:
- The backplate does not provide alarm signalling. It cannot replace functioning sounders or strobes in regulated installations that require active alarm devices.
- Official mechanical specifications such as precise dimensions and IP rating for the backplate alone are not published in distributor listings. The public listing notes "INSUFFICIENT DATA" for these points. For installations where exact measurements or weatherproofing ratings matter, consult the Texecom Odyssey 2 spec sheet or contact Texecom directly.
- Follow local regulations: do not substitute dummy units where law, insurance conditions or local codes require active signalling devices.
How it compares with similar products on the market
Dummy or decoy bellboxes and backplates are a fairly common accessory category in the security market. Comparing the FCB-0049 to other options highlights where it sits in terms of design, cost and use-case fit:
Active Odyssey 2 sounders include electronics, piezo elements or speakers and often strobes. They offer alarm signalling, event logging and regulatory-compliant alerting. The FCB-0049 cannot replace these functions but closely matches their external appearance. Where budget allows and when alarm signalling is required, the active units remain the correct choice.
Many manufacturers supply generic dummy housings. The FCB-0049s advantage is its compatibility with genuine Texecom Odyssey 2 covers, ensuring a cohesive and authentic look on sites already equipped with Odyssey products. Generic decoys can be cheaper or more generic in shape, but they may not match Odyssey aesthetics as closely.
Stickers, false cameras and signage are alternative low-cost deterrents. A molded backplate like the FCB-0049 tends to be more durable and realistic in appearance than a sticker, and it more closely mimics an actual alarm bellbox. However, integrated systems with real sensors and active deterrents are always more effective at producing a response when intrusion occurs.
Customer testimonials and feedback
Official public customer testimonials specifically for the FCB-0049 are not published in the product listing provided. Where user feedback exists for similar dummy backplates, common themes include:
- Appreciation for the low cost and ability to visually extend protection between active sounders.
- Positive comments on visual match when used with genuine covers, helping maintain a professional site appearance.
- Notes that the units are low-maintenance because there are no electronics to service.
- Caveats from installers advising purchasers that these units are purely decorative and should not be used where active alarm signalling is required for compliance or insurance.
If you need verified testimonials or real-world case studies, contact accredited Texecom installers or distributors who can provide references from recent installations.
Comparative value and pricing
The suggested retail price for the FCB-0049 is A36.99 (suggested price: 6.99), with a distributor cost indication of A34.58 (cost price: 4.58). This places the unit firmly in the low-cost segment of the market, making it a viable choice for projects where budget sensitivity and visual continuity are priorities.
Conclusion: Why choose the Texecom Odyssey 2 Dummy Backplate?
The Texecom Odyssey 2 Dummy Backplate (FCB-0049) is a focused product that does one job well: provide an authentic, low-cost visual deterrent that integrates with Odyssey 2 covers to maintain a uniform security appearance across a site. It is particularly well-suited to large sites that require the illusion of continuous alarm coverage, retail or customer-facing environments where noise would be disruptive, and temporary or phased installations where budget or wiring constraints prevent the installation of additional active sounders.
Its main strengths are affordability, low maintenance and visual compatibility with genuine Odyssey 2 covers. Its principal limitation is also inherent to its design: it contains no electronics and cannot substitute for active alarm devices where signalling, compliance or recorded alerting is required. For safety-critical or regulated applications, pair the dummy backplate with genuine Odyssey 2 sounders where active alarm outputs are needed and consult Texecom documentation for exact mechanical and environmental specifications before installation.
In short, if your objective is to increase visible deterrence affordably and maintain the look of a professionally protected site without adding electronic alarm points, the FCB-0049 is a practical, cost-effective choice. For installations requiring active alarm performance, select a fully functioning Odyssey 2 sounder instead.
