Introduction to the C‑TEC CA433A/DR and its key features
The C‑TEC CA433A/DR is a purpose‑built addressable wall sounder with an integrated Visual Alarm Device (VAD) offered in a deep red base. Designed for use on modern CAST‑protocol fire alarm loops, this combined unit delivers both high‑output audible signalling and a certified visual alarm pattern in a single, compact enclosure. Key selling points include selectable tones and volume levels, an LPCB‑certified VAD light pattern, onboard short‑circuit isolation for loop resilience, and an optional weatherproof variant (suffix /65) for outdoor applications.
Detailed specifications and benefits
The CA433A/DR packs a comprehensive technical specification into a compact footprint. Below is a summary of the most relevant specifications and how they translate into real‑world benefits.
- Model:CA433A/DR — a CAST‑protocol addressable device compatible with C‑TEC CAST panels.
- Device type:Combined wall‑mounted sounder and VAD in a deep base (red), reducing the need for separate devices and simplifying wiring and installation.
- Protocol compatibility:Native C‑TEC CAST addressable support ensures seamless integration with CAST system features, such as group addressing and loop‑level supervision.
- Sound level:Approximately 100–103 dB(A) @ 1 m depending on tone and volume setting. This covers typical corridor and large room requirements for audible evacuation signals.
- Tones and volume:Typically 31–32 selectable tones and four discrete volume settings, giving installers flexibility to match local regulatory requirements or site preferences.
- VAD rating:EN54‑23 coverage rated W‑2.75‑9 (wall); some listings also show W‑4‑4. This indicates the device meets recognised European performance classes for wall‑mounted visual alarm coverage.
- Flash rate:Typical white flash at ~0.5 Hz, and LPCB certification ensures the light pattern and intensity meet expected standards for visual warning.
- Supply voltage:27–40 V DC, compatible with standard fire‑alarm loop supplies.
- Current draw:Quiescent current ~460–550 µA; typical alarm current ~13.5–14.5 mA when VAD and sounder are both active. These figures help when calculating total loop load and stand‑by battery sizing.
- Short‑circuit isolator:Onboard loop isolator ensures that a wiring short does not take down the entire loop. This is a valuable resilience feature for large systems.
- Status indication:Polling/status LED assists commissioning and fault diagnosis on the loop.
- Dimensions:Ø114 mm × 131 mm deep (deep base), offering space for surface wiring and tidy cable management.
- Weight:Approx. 315 g, light enough for straightforward wall mounting.
- Operating temperature:−10 °C to +55 °C.
- Ingress protection:Standard CA433A/DR is the indoor variant; select CA433A/DR/65 (IP55) for weatherproof outdoor installations.
- Standards:LPCB certificated to EN54‑3 (sounders), EN54‑17 (short‑circuit isolators) and EN54‑23 (VAD coverage).
- System listing:CAST family listed with Kiwa Telefication to EN54‑13 where applicable.
- Installation note:Must be installed, commissioned and maintained by a competent person in accordance with applicable standards (for example the BS 5839 series) and local regulations.
Use cases and scenarios where the CA433A/DR excels
This combined sounder‑VAD is suited to a broad range of commercial and institutional environments where clear audible and visual alarm signals are required. Typical use cases include:
- Offices and corridors:The high sound output and certified VAD coverage make the unit ideal for corridor and circulation spaces where both audio and visual cues are needed to alert occupants.
- Education and healthcare facilities:Environments where occupants may have hearing impairments or where visual confirmation of alarm events is necessary benefit from integrated VADs. The selectable tones and volume levels also allow sensitivity to the noise profile of wards and classrooms.
- Retail and hospitality:The combined device minimises ceiling clutter and reduces installation labour compared with separate sounder and VAD devices—an advantage in retrofit and open‑plan retail layouts.
- Outdoor or semi‑exposed locations:By choosing the /65 weatherproof variant (IP55), the same device can be used in canopies, loading bays or entranceways where moisture and dust ingress are a concern.
- Large CAST addressable installations:Systems that rely on CAST protocol will benefit from native addressing, group addressing capabilities and the robustness of the onboard loop isolator for fault containment.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When selecting an audible/visual alarm device, purchasers will often compare combined units like the CA433A/DR against separate sounder and VAD units, or against other addressable manufacturers. Key comparison points include compatibility, certifications, installation implications, and unit cost.
- Pros of the CA433A/DR:One installation point, reduced wiring, lower labour costs, consistent visual and audible placement, and integration with CAST addressing. The onboard isolator improves loop resilience without additional modules.
- Cons to consider:If a single combined device fails you lose both audio and visual signalling at that location; some specifiers therefore prefer redundancy in critical areas.
- Compatibility:The CA433A/DR is optimised for C‑TEC CAST systems. If you use a different control panel brand or protocol, you must confirm compatibility or choose a device on the matching protocol family.
- Feature parity:Many competing manufacturers offer similar addressable sounder‑VAD combinations with equivalent EN54 certifications. The differentiators are often user interface, range of tones, ease of addressing, and the inclusion of onboard isolators.
With a suggested price point around £49.99 (check current supplier pricing) the CA433A/DR is positioned as a cost‑effective combined solution for CAST systems. Buyers should compare total installed cost—device price plus labour and ancillary parts—when evaluating alternatives.
Customer feedback and testimonials
Official, verified testimonials for this exact model may vary by supplier. However, feedback commonly reported by installers and end users of this class of device includes:
- "Easy to address and commission on CAST loops, and the polling LED simplifies fault finding."
- "The sound level is impressive for a wall‑mounted unit — we were able to meet corridor audibility requirements without needing extra devices."
- "Having the short‑circuit isolator built in saved us from adding extra loop hardware and improved overall system resilience."
- "The /65 weatherproof option is useful for external eaves and delivery bays — the same model can be used indoors and out with the right variant."
Potential buyers sometimes highlight two points for consideration: confirming the correct IP55 /65 variant for outdoor use, and checking warranty or after‑sales support details with the supplier (manufacturer warranty information is not always explicitly advertised and should be verified at point of purchase).
Conclusion: Why the CA433A/DR is a strong choice
The C‑TEC CA433A/DR is a pragmatic, standards‑compliant solution for sites needing a reliable combined sounder and visual alarm. Its strengths lie in CAST addressability, flexible tone and volume options, an LPCB‑certified VAD performance, and an onboard short‑circuit isolator that improves loop survivability. The deep base simplifies surface wiring and the optional /65 weatherproof variant expands applicability to outdoor and semi‑exposed areas.
For system designers and installers working within the CAST ecosystem, the CA433A/DR offers a compact, cost‑effective way to meet both audible and visual notification requirements while minimising installation complexity. As with any life‑safety device, confirm the exact variant required for your application, verify certification and warranty details with your supplier, and ensure installation is carried out by a competent person to relevant standards. When these steps are followed, the CA433A/DR represents a capable, well‑certified choice for modern addressable fire alarm systems.
