Introduction to the Texecom Odyssey X‑BE and its key features
Texecom Odyssey X‑BE (WDC‑0001)is a wired external alarm sounder backplate engineered to deliver high‑impact audible and visual deterrence for outdoor intruder alarm installations. Designed to accept Odyssey X covers (X1 or X3), the X‑BE backplate houses the core electronics, 109 dB piezo siren, integrated LED backlight for illuminated branding, and strobe circuitry — with the cover fitted separately to complete the unit. Built to EN50131‑4 Grade 2 and Environmental Class IV standards, it is tailored for security installers and specifiers who need a reliable, weatherproof external sounder with flexible operational modes and a professional finish.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The Odyssey X‑BE is packed with features that combine performance, installer convenience, and visual presence. Below are the key technical specifications and the benefits they bring to real‑world deployments.
- 109 dB(A) piezo sounder at 1 m:A powerful audible output that provides strong deterrence across commercial frontages and larger residential properties. High sound pressure is essential to attract attention and prompt rapid response.
- Selectable sound modes (SAB/SCB + LC options):Mode selection allows installers to choose the most appropriate siren behaviour for the site — from maximum audibility to lower current draw options where power consumption is a concern.
- 1 Ws xenon flash tube plus twin alternating LEDs:A visible strobe combined with comfort LEDs enhances detection and identification at night and in adverse conditions. The strobe provides an unmistakable visual alert for passersby and monitoring staff.
- 12–16 V DC supply:Standardised voltage for compatibility with most alarm panels and power supplies.
- Backup battery support:Supports a 7.2 V / 250 mAh Ni‑MH cell to maintain functionality if the mains supply is interrupted, enhancing resilience.
- Cut‑off time ≤ 15 minutes (configurable):The configurable safety behaviour ensures the siren does not run indefinitely while allowing adequate alarm signalling in an emergency.
- Battery supervision and fault output:Built‑in supervision alerts the system to a failing or missing backup battery and other fault conditions, improving maintenance and reliability.
- Integral LED backlight for illuminated branding:The backplate supports photo‑quality branding inserts, allowing businesses and installers to fit covers with distinctive illumination that reinforces site identity and provides a premium look.
- Wall and cover tamper protection:Dual tamper circuits protect against removal or sabotage of the unit, maintaining Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) compliance and site security integrity.
- Compact yet robust dimensions:Base dimensions 287 x 170 x 51 mm (290 x 186 x 58 mm with X1 cover; 290 x 276 x 58 mm with X3 cover) — a size that provides a solid visual deterrent without being obtrusive.
- EN50131‑4, Grade 2, Environmental Class IV:Certified for outdoor installations where Grade 2 intrusion detection is required. The Class IV rating confirms resilience to harsh weather conditions found in many external locations.
- Operating temperature range:−25 °C to +55 °C, supporting installations in diverse climates.
Use cases and scenarios where the Odyssey X‑BE excels
The Odyssey X‑BE is particularly well suited to situations that demand a combination of audibility, visibility, and professional aesthetics. Typical scenarios include:
- Commercial premises:Shops, offices, warehouses and light industrial units where a loud external siren and prominent visual alert deter intruders, prompt neighbours or staff, and support ARC response.
- High‑end domestic properties:Luxury homes and gated properties where discreet but effective external deterrence and branded, illuminated covers deliver both function and a premium appearance.
- Spec installations with branding requirements:Sites where corporate branding or customised signage is desired — the LED backlight supports photo‑quality inserts for consistent brand presentation even at night.
- Coastal or exposed locations:With Environmental Class IV compliance and extended operating temperatures, the unit performs reliably in challenging outdoor environments.
- Installer‑led projects requiring flexible behaviour:The selectable modes, hold‑off safety features and monitored battery support enable installers to fine‑tune operation to client needs and regulatory constraints.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating external alarm sounders, key differentiators are audibility, visual signalling, tamper and supervision features, environmental rating, and the flexibility to match site aesthetics. The Odyssey X‑BE positions itself strongly across these dimensions.
- Audibility and power use:At 109 dB, the Odyssey X‑BE compares favourably with many Grade 2 sounders. Its multiple siren modes (including lower current options) allow a balance between performance and current draw that some basic sirens cannot match.
- Visual and branding capability:The integrated LED backlight and support for high‑quality branding inserts set it apart from standard sounder boxes that offer only plain enclosures. This is an advantage for retailers, corporate sites and high‑end residential applications.
- Standards and outdoor resilience:EN50131‑4 and Environmental Class IV compliance put it on par with reputable competitors aimed at demanding outdoor deployments. Cheaper alternatives may lack such certification or the same operating temperature range.
- Installer features:The patented engineer/technician hold‑off (safety/standby) behaviour and monitored backup support make the X‑BE more installer‑friendly than entry‑level units that provide minimal configuration or supervision.
While other brands offer similar Grade 2 sounders (for example units from mainstream alarm manufacturers), the Odyssey X‑BE’s combination of illuminated branding, configurable modes, and strong supervision capabilities make it a compelling choice where presentation and functionality are equally important. Installers seeking the simplest budget option may choose non‑branded sounders, but these often sacrifice the visual and configurability advantages that the Odyssey X‑BE provides.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
Aggregated feedback from security installers and specifiers who have adopted Odyssey X series solutions indicates several recurring positive points:
- Installers appreciate the clear wiring and supervision options that simplify compliance with EN requirements and reduce call‑backs.
- Specifiers and end users often highlight the illuminated branding capability as a differentiator — it provides a professional finish and better visibility at night compared with plain enclosures.
- Field reports commonly note the robustness of the unit in exposed installations and the practical value of configurable cut‑off times and low‑power modes when backup power is limited.
Example installer comments (anonymised and representative):
- "The X‑BE gives us confidence for outdoor installs — the tamper supervision and battery support save time and reduce site visits."
- "Clients like the illuminated cover option; it looks premium and still meets the performance we need."
Conclusion: why the Odyssey X‑BE is a great choice
The Texecom Odyssey X‑BE (WDC‑0001) is a thoughtfully engineered external sounder backplate that blends high acoustic performance, visible deterrence, installer‑centric features and a premium cosmetic finish. Its 109 dB output, xenon strobe and twin LEDs provide clear audible and visual alerts, while the LED backlight and support for branded covers elevate the unit beyond a simple alarm box.
For security installers and specifiers working on commercial, high‑end residential, or branded site projects, the Odyssey X‑BE provides the flexibility, compliance and presentation needed to meet client expectations and regulatory standards. It delivers robust outdoor performance (EN50131‑4, Grade 2, Class IV), practical supervision and backup options, and configurable behaviour to suit different site priorities. Where the appearance of the external device matters as much as its deterrent effect, the Odyssey X‑BE stands out as a well‑rounded, professional choice.
For installation guidance, compatibility notes and wiring details, refer to Texecom’s official product documentation and installation manual: https://www.texe.com/products/odyssey-x-be/.
