Introduction to the Apollo AlarmSense Manual Call Point and its key features
The Apollo 55400-894APO AlarmSense Manual Call Point (Resettable) is a dedicated manual call point designed to work on AlarmSense two-wire fire alarm loops. Built to EN 54-11 standards with LPCB and CPR approvals, this resettable unit offers a practical balance of durability, visibility and ease of service for commercial, retail and light industrial installations. Key features include a front-access reset using a supplied key, a wide-angle (170°) red LED for clear visual alarm indication, compatibility with AlarmSense two-wire detection methods and a sturdy fire-retardant polycarbonate housing rated to IP44.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The Apollo AlarmSense Manual Call Point is engineered for reliable operation in a range of environments and to integrate seamlessly with two-wire AlarmSense systems. Below are the main technical specifications followed by the practical benefits they bring to installers and end users.
- Part number:55400-894APO
- Product type:AlarmSense Manual Call Point (two‑wire)
- Supply voltage:9–33 V DC
- Quiescent current:50 µA (at 24 V DC)
- Alarm current:1.5 mA (LED on at 24 V)
- Operating temperature:−40 °C to +70 °C
- Humidity:0–95 % RH (no condensation or icing)
- IP rating:IP44
- Dimensions (HxWxD):90 × 90 × 63 mm
- Weight:156 g
- Material:Fire‑retardant polycarbonate
- Mounting:Semi‑flush or surface
- LED indicator:170° viewable red LED
- Reset method:Front access reset; reset key supplied
- Compatibility:AlarmSense two‑wire loop (zener detection/load signalling)
- Standards / approvals:EN 54‑11; LPCB & CPR
- Wide voltage range (9–33 V DC):Makes the unit suitable for many common fire-alarm loop power supplies and simplifies integration into existing AlarmSense systems.
- Low quiescent current:The very low standby draw (50 µA at 24 V) ensures minimal impact on loop power budgets and helps maintain reliable system supervision in larger networks.
- Visible alarm indication:The 170° viewable red LED provides clear visual confirmation of activation from a broad range of angles, improving situational awareness for building occupants and responders.
- Resettable operation:The front-access reset with supplied key removes the need to replace glass or breakable elements after an activation, speeding return-to-service and reducing ongoing consumable costs.
- Rugged construction and IP44 protection:Fire‑retardant polycarbonate housing and IP44 rating mean the call point can be used in many indoor environments where splashes or dust might be present, while still meeting safety and fire standards.
- Compliance:EN 54‑11 and other approvals mean the device meets recognized European standards for manual call points, supporting regulatory and client compliance requirements.
Use cases and scenarios where the product excels
The Apollo AlarmSense Manual Call Point is well suited to a broad set of environments and use scenarios where a resettable manual call point integrated into an AlarmSense two‑wire loop is required:
- Commercial offices and retail premises:The resettable design avoids the regular replacement of break-glass elements in areas with frequent false alarms or routine testing, reducing downtime and maintenance costs.
- Light industrial facilities and warehouses:Robust polycarbonate construction and wide operating temperature range mean the unit can tolerate harsher internal environments (within the specified humidity limits) while maintaining reliable signalling.
- Refurbishments and network upgrades:When an existing two-wire AlarmSense loop is being extended or refurbished, this model offers a direct drop-in option with compatible detection and signalling behaviour.
- High-traffic public buildings:Where a visible, easily resettable call point reduces service interruptions—such as in retail centres, healthcare reception areas or transport hubs—the unit’s LED visibility and simple reset are beneficial.
- Consolidated maintenance programs:Systems managed by a central facilities team benefit from the quick reset operation and low standby power that simplify routine testing and commissioning.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When selecting a manual call point, buyers typically choose between break-glass/non-resettable call points, resettable manual call points, and addressable or conventional variations. The Apollo AlarmSense Manual Call Point positions itself strongly among resettable, addressable-compatible call points. Key comparative points to consider:
- Resettable vs break-glass:Traditional break-glass call points require replacement of the glass element after activation, adding consumable costs and downtime. The Apollo resettable model eliminates that recurring cost and simplifies return-to-service with the supplied reset key.
- Two‑wire AlarmSense compatibility vs conventional points:AlarmSense two‑wire compatibility means fewer conductors are required on the loop, which can reduce installation time and cable costs when compared to some conventional systems. It also supports zener detection and load signalling conventions used by Apollo systems.
- IP rating and durability:With IP44 and fire‑retardant polycarbonate, the 55400-894APO is comparable to many indoor-rated manual call points. For harsher outdoor or washdown conditions, higher IP-rated or enclosure-protected models may be required.
- Visibility and current consumption:The 170° LED and low quiescent current provide advantages over older or simpler designs that may have limited viewing angles or higher standby draws, improving maintainability and energy efficiency on larger loops.
Customer feedback and reviews
There are no specific user testimonials included with the product information provided here. However, typical feedback from integrators and facilities teams choosing resettable AlarmSense call points commonly highlights:
- Ease of installation on two‑wire loops and straightforward wiring aligned with AlarmSense practice.
- Reduced operational disruption and lower maintenance costs because activations can be reset on site without replacing components.
- Clear LED indication that improves alarm response and inspection efficiency.
For verified customer reviews, installers and buyers are encouraged to consult distributor sites, trade forums and case studies specific to their region or to request references from suppliers or Apollo distributors.
Conclusion: Why the Apollo 55400-894APO is a strong choice
The Apollo AlarmSense Manual Call Point 55400-894APO is a practical and standards-compliant solution for modern two‑wire fire alarm loops. Its combination of EN 54‑11 certification, resettable front-access operation, broad LED visibility and low standby current make it well suited to commercial and light industrial installations where serviceability and compliance matter. The unit’s compact footprint, flexible mounting (semi‑flush or surface) and IP44-rated, fire-retardant construction add to its versatility.
For projects already using AlarmSense loops, or for installers seeking a resettable, low-maintenance manual call point that meets European standards, the Apollo 55400-894APO is a cost-effective option. Suggested price guidance for budgeting is approximately A321.00 (cost price A317.60). Always ensure installation and commissioning are performed by qualified personnel and that the device is used in accordance with manufacturer datasheets and local codes.
For technical integration, wiring diagrams, mounting instructions and testing procedures, refer to the Apollo datasheet and installation manual. Confirm compatibility with your specific AlarmSense panel and consult local regulations to ensure the installation meets all applicable codes and approval requirements.