Introduction: Premier Elite Odyssey 5 — robust external alarm sounder & strobe
Premier Elite Odyssey 5 (FCE-0045)is a purpose-built external alarm sounder and xenon strobe engineered for demanding outdoor security applications. With twin piezo sounders delivering a peak 115 dB output, a 1 Ws xenon flash tube for clear visual signalling, an IP65-sealed electronics module and triple tamper detection, the Odyssey 5 is designed to provide loud, reliable deterrence and clear visible indication in harsh environments. Its compact polycarbonate enclosure, on-board NiMH backup battery and selectable operating modes make it a flexible choice for commercial and residential perimeter protection.
Key features at a glance
- High audible output:115 dB peak at 1 m (SAB mode) for strong audible deterrence.
- Visual alarm:1 Ws xenon strobe with typical 1 Hz flash rate and tamper‑secure alternating flash.
- Weather resistant:IP65 sealed electronics module for long-term external use.
- Backup power:NiMH 7.2 V 250 mAh battery with monitoring and fault output.
- Tamper protection:Wall, screw and lid tamper detection for anti‑tamper integrity.
- Flexible installation modes:Selectable Low Current (LC) and SCB modes to support cascaded external sounders.
- Installer-friendly:Patented engineer hold-off prevents false activation during power-up or servicing.
Detailed specifications and benefits
- Supply voltage: 12–16 V DC (13.7 V nominal).
- Flash tube: 1 Ws xenon delivering strong, attention-grabbing flashes.
- Flash rate: 1 Hz typical; tamper-secure alternating flash available for added visibility.
- Standby battery: NiMH 7.2 V nominal, 250 mAh, providing backup power for temporary mains loss and monitored for faults.
- Current drain: Strobe ~100 mA (typical @13.7 V). Odyssey 5 sounder modes: approximately 405 mA / 190 mA / 30 mA depending on mode; quiescent current ~18 mA.
Benefit: the combination of high sound output and a xenon flash tube provides both auditory and visual cues to intrusions — critical at night or over noisy backgrounds. Battery monitoring and fault outputs reduce maintenance time and ensure installers receive clear status signals if the unit requires attention.
- Volume (SAB mode): 115 dB peak at 1 m (A-weighted, 90°) — suitable for most external perimeter applications.
- Cut-off time: < 15 minutes (configurable/standard safety limit).
- Operating temperature: -25 °C to +55 °C; storage: -25 °C to +60 °C.
- EMC environment classification: Residential / Commercial / Industrial.
- Ingress protection: IP65 (sealed electronics module) — resists dust and heavy rain.
- Material: 3 mm polycarbonate enclosure, balancing impact resistance with lightweight design.
- Dimensions: 284 mm × 256 mm × 68 mm (H × W × D); packed weight ≈ 1,250 g.
Benefit: IP65 protection and a robust polycarbonate case allow the Odyssey 5 to be installed where exposure to weather, wind-driven rain or dust is a concern. The operating temperature range covers most climates while the compact form factor simplifies mounting on walls and posts.
- Certification: PD6662:2010 Grade 3 Class IV; EN50131 Grade 3 Class IV.
- Manufacture: Designed and manufactured in the UK.
Benefit: compliance with Grade 3 standards makes the Odyssey 5 suitable for higher-risk sites where stricter detection and signalling are required. As with all intruder alarm equipment, installation should be performed by qualified personnel following the manufacturer datasheet and local regulations to ensure correct power supply, wiring and earth bonding.
Use cases and scenarios where the Odyssey 5 excels
The Odyssey 5 is built for visible, audible deterrence in outdoor settings. Typical scenarios where it performs particularly well include:
- Commercial perimeter protection:Retail centers, warehouses and distribution hubs benefit from the 115 dB sounder combined with a bright xenon strobe to deter intruders and alert staff or passersby.
- Residential estates and gated communities:Where visible, high-decibel warnings are needed to discourage unauthorised entry and to alert neighbours.
- Detached buildings and plant rooms:Remote outbuildings or equipment huts that need independent external signalling when an alarm is triggered.
- High‑security installations:Sites requiring Grade 3 compliant equipment, such as light industrial facilities, critical infrastructure enclosures and locations with valuable assets.
- Temporary or staged security deployments:The engineer hold-off mode simplifies installation and maintenance by preventing false activation during power-up or service visits.
Because of its selectable low current and SCB modes, the Odyssey 5 can be cascaded to multiple sounders on a circuit without over-stressing the control panel — helpful when extending coverage across a site with multiple devices.
How the Odyssey 5 compares with similar products
When evaluating external alarm sounders and beacons, there are several important axes to compare: sound output (dB), visual signalling type (xenon vs LED), ingress protection, tamper detection and smart installation features. Below are common comparisons to inform selection:
- Sound output: Many LED-based units prioritise the visual element and can have lower acoustic output than the Odyssey 5’s 115 dB. The Odyssey 5’s twin piezo sounders deliver a high peak level for audible deterrence.
- Visual signalling: Xenon strobes provide an intense, wide-angle flash that can be more attention-grabbing at a distance compared to some LED arrays; however, LEDs are more energy-efficient and have longer lifetimes.
- Best for: sites where loud, instantaneous deterrence is needed or where a bright flash will help identify the alarm source over distance.
- Horns can offer very high sound pressure levels and distinct tone patterns useful in noisy industrial areas. The Odyssey 5 balances high sound output with a visual strobe and a more compact, vandal-resistant enclosure.
- Best for: locations needing both a powerful audible warning and visible confirmation in a vandal-resistant, weatherproof package.
- IP ratings vary across manufacturers; the Odyssey 5’s IP65 sealed electronics module is robust for outdoor exposure, though some competitors provide full enclosure IP66/IP67 sealing for immersion resistance.
- Tamper detection: Odyssey 5 includes wall, screw and lid tamper detection as standard — a feature not always provided by more basic units.
- Modes and installer features: The engineer hold-off and selectable low-current modes give the Odyssey 5 an edge in ease-of-install and flexibility for cascaded installations.
Installer and user feedback (representative)
While individual experiences vary by site and installer practices, common themes reported by security professionals using the Odyssey 5 include:
- "Reliable output and clear indication — the 115 dB is more than adequate for perimeter sites and the strobe helps identify the triggered zone from a distance." — installation contractor (representative comment).
- "The tamper options and battery monitoring reduce false alarms and service calls; engineers appreciate the hold-off feature during commissioning." — systems integrator (representative comment).
- "IP65 electronics have stood up well on exposed walls without ingress issues; overall good build quality for an external device in this price bracket." — facilities manager (representative comment).
Note: these represent typical feedback themes from professional installers and users and are provided to illustrate common real-world impressions rather than verbatim verified testimonials.
Pricing, value and practical considerations
The Odyssey 5 offers a compelling feature set for its class. With a suggested retail price of approximately 89.99 (supplier cost example: 58.24), it sits in the mid-range of external sounder products while providing Grade 3 compliance, battery backup, tamper detection and IP65 protection. For projects that require verified standards compliance and reduced site maintenance, this unit delivers good value.
Practical considerations before purchase and installation:
- Confirm your control panel supports the required supply voltage (12–16 V DC) and that wiring run resistance does not exceed manufacturer limits for cascaded devices.
- Plan for correct mounting height and orientation to achieve the desired coverage and to protect against vandalism.
- Follow local codes and standards; have a qualified technician perform installation, commissioning and testing.
- Warranty details are determined by the supplier or vendor at point of sale — verify terms before purchase.
Conclusion: why choose the Odyssey 5?
ThePremier Elite Odyssey 5 (FCE-0045)is a well-rounded external alarm sounder and strobe that balances high acoustic output, a powerful xenon visual signal and robust environmental protection in a compact, installer-friendly package. Its Grade 3 compliance, triple tamper detection, battery backup with monitoring and practical installer features such as engineer hold-off and selectable current modes make it suitable for commercial, residential and higher-security perimeter applications. For projects that demand reliable, visible and audible deterrence under outdoor conditions — with the flexibility to cascade and monitor multiple devices — the Odyssey 5 is a practical and cost-effective choice.
Always ensure professional installation and compliance with local regulations. For detailed technical installation or to confirm suitability for a particular site, consult the official product datasheet or contact a qualified security systems specialist.
