Introduction to the Texecom Premier Odyssey 5E Compact
Texecom Premier Odyssey 5E Compact Complete (FCF-0002)is an ultra-compact external sounder and strobe designed to deliver high-visibility intruder alarm signalling in a small, installer-friendly package. Combining a 109 dB piezo sounder with a 2706 xenon strobe, the unit targets residential and light-commercial applications where strong deterrent effect and straightforward installation matter. Key installer-oriented features1ike patented engineer hold-off, selectable operating modes and tamper detectionmake it a practical choice for modern alarm installations.
Key features at a glance
- High sound output:Single piezo producing 109 dB(A) at 1 m.
- Bright strobe:2706 lens with a 1 Ws xenon flash tube for wide visibility.
- Robust enclosure:3 mm polycarbonate housing, IP44 electronics sealing.
- Installer-friendly:Patented engineer hold-off, selectable SAB/SCB modes, Strobe Tube Saver and a low-current option to reduce panel load.
- Tamper detection:Wall and lid tamper switches to protect against interference.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The Odyssey 5E Compact packs a surprising amount of capability into a modest footprint (189 d7 186 d7 60 mm). Below are the primary specification areas and the practical benefits they deliver for installers and end users.
- Supply voltage:12 616 V DC (13.7 V nominal). This standard alarm-voltage range makes the unit compatible with most alarm control panels and auxiliary supplies.
- Flash tube:1 Ws xenon, with a 2706 lens for broad coverage. Xenon strobes provide a high-intensity flash that remains visible across angles and in daylight, bolstering visual deterrence.
- Flash rate:Normal 1 Hz; alternating 1 Hz for tamper-secure behaviour. Selectable flash patterns can help meet site requirements and local codes.
- Quiescent and active currents:Typical quiescent current ~18 mA; active current is mode dependent (refer to the datasheet for peak values). Low-current selectable modes reduce the drain on the panel and battery back-up systems.
- Ingress protection:IP44 sealed electronics module. Suitable for exposed, but not fully submerged, outdoor locationsideal for most residential and light commercial façades where splash resistance and dust exclusion are required.
- Operating temperature:6256C to +556C; storage 6256C to +606C. This wide range supports varied climates and seasonal extremes.
- Material and build:3 mm polycarbonate housing offers a lightweight but robust outer shell; white housing with a blue lens for a professional, recognisable appearance.
- Tamper detection:Wall and lid tamper switches enhance security by signalling attempts at removal or opening.
- Engineer hold-off:Patented safety hold-off simplifies single-person installation or servicing by temporarily suppressing alarm activation while working on the unit, reducing risk of false alarms and nuisance calls.
- Mode selection:Selectable SAB/SCB modes, Strobe Tube Saver and low-current options allow system tuning for power consumption, visual signalling frequency and regulatory compliance.
Use cases and scenarios where the Odyssey 5E Compact excels
The design and feature set of the Odyssey 5E Compact make it particularly well suited to a range of installations where a balance of deterrence, visibility and installer convenience is required.
For houses and apartment blocks, the compact footprint and discreet appearance make it easy to place on external walls or gables without dominating the façade. The 109 dB sound output combined with a 2706 strobe provides both audible and visual deterrence, useful for alerting neighbours and discouraging intruders.
Small shops, offices and light industrial units benefit from the units high-visibility strobe and strong sound output while the low-current modes help preserve system battery life. IP44 protection is typically sufficient for storefronts and covered loading bays.
Construction site cabins, temporary offices and seasonal kiosks can make use of the compact size and engineer hold-off during frequent changes and servicing. The polycarbonate construction offers impact resistance in environments where damage risks are higher.
Small alarm installers or maintenance technicians who often work alone will appreciate the patented engineer hold-off feature, which allows safe commissioning or servicing without immediate alarm triggering or third-party disturbance.
How the Odyssey 5E Compact compares with similar products
When evaluating external sounders and strobes, installers and specifiers often consider size, sound pressure level, strobe type, ingress protection and installer features. The Odyssey 5E Compact distinguishes itself across several of these axes:
- Size vs output:At 109 dB, the Compact delivers sound close to larger, full-size sounders while occupying much less wall space. This makes it a better choice where aesthetics or limited mounting area are concerns.
- Xenon strobe vs LED alternatives:Xenon strobes generate a high-intensity flash that is visible across wider angles and in brighter conditions. Many modern units use LED arrays for lower power draw, but LEDs can differ in perceived intensity and angle coverage. The Odyssey retains the traditional xenon flash to maximise visual signalling effectiveness.
- Ingress protection:IP44 is typical for many external sounder/strobes aimed at residential/light-commercial use. Higher-spec devices aimed at industrial or fully exposed marine sites may offer IP65+ protection, but these are usually larger and more expensive.
- Installer features:The patented engineer hold-off and selectable modes put the Odyssey 5E Compact ahead of basic external sounders that lack commissioning conveniences. These features reduce installation time and the risk of nuisance alarms during servicing.
- Cost:With a suggested retail price around A342 (cost price A334.46), the Odyssey 5E Compact positions itself competitively against both economy sounders and higher-end, weatherproof models, offering a good balance of functionality and value.
Customer testimonials and installer feedback
While individual reviews vary by site and installer preference, common themes reported by installers and end users include:
- Easy commissioning:Installers frequently praise the engineer hold-off feature for allowing safe single-person installation without calling out alarm responses from monitoring stations.
- Compact but loud:Multiple reports note surprise at the audio performance given the units compact size, with the 109 dB rating providing sufficient deterrence in suburban settings.
- Good value:For customers seeking a reliable visible and audible alarm on a budget-conscious project, the units features-to-price ratio is commonly highlighted.
Example anonymised installer comments (representative, not direct quotes):
- "Great for small shopfronts where you don't want a bulky sounder — loud enough and quick to fit."
- "Engineer hold-off has saved time and unnecessary call-outs on a few single-person installs."
- "Strobe is very noticeable at night; the overall unit looks neat and professional on the wall."
If you need verified customer reviews, check distributor listings and industry forums or request references from suppliers and installation companies to see real-world feedback for your region and application.
Considerations and limitations
While the Odyssey 5E Compact is strong in many areas, it's important to assess suitability against site-specific requirements:
- Ingress protection:IP44 is suitable for many external placements, but not for fully exposed or marine environments where higher IP ratings would be necessary.
- Strobe technology:Xenon strobes provide high-intensity flashes but can consume more power than LED alternatives; select low-current modes if panel power budget or battery back-up is a concern.
- Warranty and approvals:Manufacturer warranty details should be confirmed with the supplier. The unit references PD6662 / EN50131 guidelines and is commonly associated with Grade 2 / Class IV listings; installers should verify grading and certification for projects requiring formal compliance documentation.
Conclusion: why the Odyssey 5E Compact is a strong choice
The Texecom Premier Odyssey 5E Compact (FCF-0002) offers a practical, well-rounded solution for residential and light-commercial external signalling needs. Its combination of a 109 dB piezo sounder, wide-coverage 2706 xenon strobe, tamper protection and thoughtful installer features like the patented engineer hold-off make it both effective and convenient to specify and fit. The compact form factor allows discreet mounting without sacrificing deterrent performance, and selectable modes help tailor operation to system constraints and local requirements.
For projects where a reliable, high-visibility external alarm is required without the bulk and higher cost of larger or fully weatherproof units, the Odyssey 5E Compact represents a compelling balance of performance, functionality and value. Always consult the Texecom datasheet and product literature for full installation instructions, power consumption figures and compliance details before specifying or installing the product.
