Introduction to the Texecom Odyssey X-E Backplate (WDD-0001)
The Texecom Odyssey X-E Backplate (WDD-0001) is a purpose-built wired external sounder backplate designed to be the audible and visual core of a professional intruder alarm installation. Built for use with Odyssey X covers (X1/X3), this modular backplate delivers a powerful 109 dB(A) piezo acoustic output, a xenon strobe, alternating white LEDs for visible status indication, and integrated tamper protection. Designed to meet EN50131-4 and sold as a Grade 2 (Class IV) external sounder, the Odyssey X-E backplate targets installers and system integrators working on domestic and light commercial projects that require a robust, standards-compliant external alarm solution.
- 109 dB(A) piezo sounderpaired with a 1 Ws xenon strobe for strong audible and visual deterrence.
- Wall and lid tamper detectionto protect against tampering or forced removal.
- Patented engineer hold-offmode to reduce nuisance alarms during installation and commissioning.
- Alternating white / comfort LEDsfor clear visible indication of status and activity.
- Internal NiMH standby battery(7.2 V nominal) to maintain functionality if mains power is lost.
- Modular design— backplate accepts a range of Odyssey X covers and optional branded graphic inserts (covers sold separately).
Detailed specifications and benefits
The Odyssey X-E backplate packs performance-focused specifications into a format optimised for field installation. Below is a concise breakdown of the most relevant technical details and the practical benefits they deliver.
- Acoustic output:109 dB(A) — a level intended to deter intruders and alert neighbours and passers-by. This high sound pressure is particularly effective for external installations where ambient noise and distance could otherwise reduce alarm effectiveness.
- Supply voltage:Nominal 13.7 V DC (typical operating range 11–15 V DC). This aligns with standard alarm panel outputs and simplifies integration into existing wired systems.
- Typical currents:Typical operating currents are around 285 mA (SAB), 160 mA (LC), and 30 mA (SCB) at 13.7 V DC — useful figures for planning power budgets and cable sizing.
- Standby battery:Internal NiMH stack (7.2 V nominal, ~250 mAh) providing backup power to keep the sounder and strobe operational during mains failure.
- Strobe / flash tube:1 Ws xenon with an approximate flash rate of ~1 Hz, complementing the piezo output for a visible deterrent, particularly in low-light conditions.
- Comfort LEDs:Alternating white LEDs (~100 mcd typical) provide ongoing visual status that improves recognisability and aids maintenance checks.
- Module dimensions:Approximately 287 × 170 × 51 mm (backplate/module) — compact for most external mounting locations and designed to accept Odyssey X covers.
- Operating temperature:−25 °C to +55 °C, suitable for a wide range of outdoor climates where freeze or heat extremes are not beyond normal building exteriors.
- Outdoor protection:Conformal coating on electronics to improve resilience in external conditions.
- Standards & approvals:Conforms to EN50131-4 and is marketed as a Grade 2 (Class IV) external sounder. CE and RoHS declarations are available from Texecom.
- Tamper:Wall and lid tamper detection are built in to protect against unauthorised removal or interference.
- The backplate accepts Odyssey X covers (X1 / X3) — covers and branded graphic inserts are sold separately, allowing installers to tailor the visual appearance to customer preference or site branding.
- The patented engineer hold-off mode helps reduce false alarms and nuisance activations during installation and maintenance, streamlining commissioning and saving time on site.
Use cases and scenarios where the product excels
The Odyssey X-E backplate is designed for wired external intruder alarm installations where a visible and audible deterrent is required. Typical deployment scenarios include:
- Residential systems:For homes requiring a standards-compliant external sounder, the 109 dB output combined with a xenon strobe provides strong deterrence without the complexity of separate siren and strobe devices.
- Light commercial premises:Small shops, offices and light industrial units benefit from the Grade 2 classification and tamper protection — enough to meet many insurance and local regulatory requirements.
- Retrofit projects:The compact backplate and standard voltage range make the unit suitable for upgrading older wired systems without significant rewiring or infrastructure changes.
- Multi-site rollouts:Installers and integrators working across multiple properties will value the modular approach and compatibility with interchangeable covers, simplifying stock management and aesthetic consistency across deployments.
- Situations needing installer-friendly features:The patented engineer hold-off reduces accidental alarm activations during testing and commissioning, saving both time and call-outs to customers.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
External sounders and backplates are offered by a number of manufacturers. When comparing the Odyssey X-E backplate to similar wired external sounders, several differentiators stand out:
- Sound output and strobe combination:The 109 dB(A) piezo output plus xenon strobe positions the Odyssey X-E as a strong deterrent compared with lower-output units. Some competing models may rely on lower dB ratings or different sound technologies (e.g., electronic tone generators) that perform differently in open-air environments.
- Integrated battery and tamper protection:The internal NiMH battery and both wall and lid tamper switches are features often present in quality external sounders, but the Odyssey X-E’s combination of modularity and integrated features makes it a compact, all-in-one option.
- Modularity and aesthetics:Not all external sirens offer interchangeable covers and branding options. For customers and installers who care about the finished look, the ability to accept X1/X3 covers and graphic inserts can be a practical advantage.
- Installer-friendly modes:The patented engineer hold-off is a useful, somewhat unique feature that helps reduce nuisance alarms during work on the system — a meaningful operational advantage for professional installers.
- Standards compliance:EN50131-4 and Grade 2 rating are commonly sought by installers and insurers. The Odyssey X-E’s explicit compliance simplifies specifying the unit for projects requiring certified equipment.
What customers and installers say
While specific customer quotes are not provided here, feedback from installers and system integrators who choose Texecom products typically highlights a few recurring benefits that apply to the Odyssey X-E backplate:
- Reliability:Installers appreciate units that consistently meet specified acoustic and electrical performance, particularly when integrated across multiple sites.
- Ease of installation:The modular backplate design and standard voltage compatibility reduce installation time and complexity.
- Reduced nuisance alarms:Installer-focused features such as engineer hold-off are often cited as time-savers during commissioning and maintenance.
- Professional appearance:The ability to choose covers and branded inserts helps align the visual presentation with client preferences.
For precise customer reviews, prospective buyers should consult reseller product pages, installation forums or Texecom’s technical documentation to view firsthand user experiences and third-party installer commentary.
Conclusion: why the Odyssey X-E backplate is a great choice
The Texecom Odyssey X-E Backplate (WDD-0001) is a well-rounded external sounder module that balances high acoustic output, visible strobe indication, and installer-focused features in a compact, modular package. Its 109 dB(A) output, internal NiMH standby battery, wall and lid tamper detection, and patented engineer hold-off mode make it particularly well suited to professional wired intruder alarm installations for domestic and light commercial sites.
Key reasons to consider the Odyssey X-E backplate include its standards compliance (EN50131-4), modular design that accepts Odyssey X covers for flexible aesthetics, and practical installation enhancements that reduce on-site friction. Whether you are specifying a system for a homeowner, upgrading an older installation, or standardising equipment across multiple properties, the Odyssey X-E provides a robust, compliant and installer-friendly audible and visual deterrent.
As with any external sounder, ensure installation is carried out by a competent installer following Texecom’s documentation and local regulations regarding siting and wiring. When correctly specified and installed, the Odyssey X-E backplate is a strong choice for reliable external alarm signalling.
