Introduction to the Texecom DCB-0001 Veritas Excel LCD Remote Keypad
The Texecom Veritas Excel LCD Remote Keypad (model DCB-0001) is a wired user interface designed for the Veritas Excel and Veritas R8 Plus intruder alarm control panels. With a 32-character green backlit LCD, touchtone keys and an integrated sounder, the DCB-0001 provides clear, user-friendly interaction for arming, disarming and browsing event information. It is aimed at domestic and small commercial installations that require a reliable, easy-to-understand keypad for day-to-day security operations.
Key features include a legible 32-character display, direct access to a 250-event time/date-stamped log, programmable zone and banner text, and simplified engineer programming functions. The panel supports up to six remote keypads (including the panel keypad), allowing the DCB-0001 to be placed in convenient locations throughout a property.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the technical specifications helps clarify why the DCB-0001 is a practical choice for many installations. Below is a concise breakdown of its principal specifications and the practical benefits they provide.
- Dimensions:146 x 116 x 30 mm — compact profile for discreet wall mounting in hallways, utility rooms or reception areas.
- Operating voltage:nominal 13.7 V DC (minimum 10.0 V DC) — compatible with standard alarm panel power supplies.
- Current consumption:< 70 mA — low power draw reduces load on the system supply and battery backup.
- Display:32-character green backlit LCD — clear text readout for status messages, prompts and system banners.
- Event log:250 time/date-stamped events — quick review of recent activity without needing a laptop or engineer tool.
- Max keypads:Up to six remote keypads (including panel keypad) — flexible placement for multi-entry buildings.
- Readability and usability:The green backlit 32-character display provides immediate, readable feedback for end users, reducing confusion during arming and disarming sequences or when responding to alerts.
- Direct event access:The 250-event log available at the keypad enables users and installers to review recent events (alarms, faults, user actions) on-site without additional equipment, speeding diagnosis and response.
- Programmable messaging:Zone and banner text can be tailored to site-specific names and messages (e.g., "Front Door", "Reception"), making prompts and status messages more intuitive for occupants and staff.
- Installer-friendly:Simplified programming functions allow accredited installers to perform common configuration tasks quickly at the keypad, reducing service time on-site.
- Low power and robust wiring:Modest current consumption and wired connectivity support dependable operation and straightforward installation practices typical of professional alarm systems.
Use cases and scenarios where the DCB-0001 excels
The DCB-0001 is particularly well suited to environments where straightforward, reliable user interaction with the alarm system is important. Typical scenarios include:
- Detached and semi-detached houses where occupants need a clear keypad by the main entrance for arming and disarming.
- Homes with multiple entry points where additional remote keypads placed in utility rooms or at the rear entrance improve convenience.
- Offices, shops and small warehouses that benefit from localized access to an event log and easy-to-read status messages for staff.
- Multi-room businesses (e.g., salons, clinics) where zone names and banner text help employees quickly identify alarm sources and status.
- Sites with multiple users (staff, contractors) where a clear keypad and audible feedback reduce user errors and simplify daily arming routines.
- Properties requiring straightforward on-site troubleshooting by an installer or manager using the keypad’s event review and basic programming features.
Comparisons with similar products
When evaluating keypad options for Veritas control panels and similar systems, consider the following points of comparison: display type and size, event log access, tactile feedback and installation flexibility. The DCB-0001 compares favourably across these dimensions for its class.
- Some competitor keypads offer smaller or monochrome displays that may be less readable in low light. The DCB-0001’s 32-character green backlit display delivers clear text and improved legibility for routine use.
- Keypads without a built-in sounder can feel less responsive to users; the DCB-0001’s touchtone keys and sounder provide immediate, reassuring feedback.
- Not all remote keypads provide direct access to an event log. The DCB-0001’s ability to display 250 time/date-stamped events on-site gives it an edge for installers and end users who need quick insights without additional tools.
- Some advanced or wireless keypads offer installation flexibility but may introduce additional maintenance points (batteries, wireless interference). As a wired keypad, the DCB-0001 trades off battery freedom and reliability for the need to run cabling — a common and acceptable approach on many commercial and domestic installs.
- Compatibility with Texecom Veritas Excel and R8 Plus panels is a key advantage for installers standardising on the Veritas range. When compared to generic third-party keypads, the DCB-0001 ensures tighter integration and predictable behaviour.
Customer impressions and installer feedback
While no named customer reviews are provided here, typical feedback from end users and installers for a keypad of this type often highlights the following themes:
- Ease of use:Occupants appreciate the clear display and audible confirmation when arming and disarming — fewer user errors and easier routines.
- Installer convenience:Installers value direct event log access during commissioning and fault-finding, plus the simplified programming options available at the keypad.
- Reliability:The wired design and modest power draw make this keypad dependable in systems with mains and battery backup, with fewer service visits than battery-powered wireless keypads.
- Recommendations:In multi-entry properties, customers often request multiple keypads so that arming and disarming can be performed at the most convenient access point. The allowance of up to six keypads supports these needs.
Constructive feedback that is often reported in real-world use includes requests for larger displays or colour screens in premium installations and preferences for wireless solutions where retrofitting cabling is costly. These are trade-offs to weigh when selecting the right keypad for a specific site.
Conclusion: why the Texecom DCB-0001 is a strong choice
The Texecom Veritas Excel LCD Remote Keypad (DCB-0001) is a well-rounded, practical interface for Veritas Excel and R8 Plus control panels. Its 32-character green backlit display, integrated sounder and straightforward event-log access make daily operation intuitive for users and efficient for installers. For domestic and small commercial systems where reliability, readable status indications and on-site diagnostic capabilities matter, the DCB-0001 offers a compelling balance of features.
Key strengths include clear user feedback, programmable zone names for intuitive prompts, and support for multiple remote keypads to match building layouts. As a wired keypad, it delivers dependable performance without the maintenance overhead of battery-powered wireless models. The suggested retail price (based on provided figures) aligns it within a practical budget bracket for many installations, while the installer-oriented features reduce commissioning time and support quicker problem resolution.
In summary, if you are specifying or upgrading a Veritas-based alarm system and need a reliable, easy-to-use remote keypad with useful diagnostics and readable messaging, the Texecom DCB-0001 is a solid and pragmatic choice.
