Introduction to the C-TEC CA730 CAST I/O Module and its key features
The C-TEC CA730 CAST Input/Output (I/O) Module is a compact, addressable device engineered to expand the capability of C-TEC CAST fire alarm panels (XFP/ZFP). Designed for commercial installations, the CA730 provides a single monitored input plus a volt-free changeover relay output, together with an on-board short-circuit loop isolator and clear LED status indicators. Certified to LPCB EN54-17 and EN54-18 (and Kiwa EN54-13 for device/system compatibility), the CA730 is built to meet the reliability and safety expectations of modern fire systems while remaining straightforward for installers to deploy.
- Addressable CAST compatibility:Works with C-TEC CAST loops (XFP/ZFP panels).
- Monitored input:Single configurable input usable as a zone monitor (supporting up to 20 conventional detectors and 10 manual call points), a monitored normally-open input with EOL resistor, or a simple switch input.
- Volt-free relay:Single pole changeover (SPCO) volt-free contact suitable for controlling doors, dampers, relays, or other ancillary equipment.
- On-board loop isolator:Automatic short-circuit isolation protects the loop and preserves operation of other devices.
- LED status indicators:Polling (flash), Active (red), and Input Fault (yellow) for quick local diagnostics.
- Compact and economical:Low loop current consumption and form factor for mounting in a standard 25 mm double-gang back box.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The CA730 combines practical hardware with standards-backed reliability. Below are the core technical specifications and the benefits they deliver in real-world installations.
- Approvals:LPCB EN54-17 & EN54-18; Kiwa EN54-13 (device/system).
- Compatibility:C-TEC CAST panels (XFP / ZFP).
- Supply voltage:22–40 V DC.
- Quiescent current:1.3 mA (typical).
- Alarm current:5.5 mA (typical at 22–40 V DC).
- Auxiliary relay:1 × volt-free changeover (SPCO), rated 1 A @ 30 V DC; 0.3 A @ 125 V AC.
- Monitored input:Single configurable input; zone monitor supporting up to 20 conventional detectors and 10 MCPs, or monitored NO with EOL options.
- Terminals:6 × 45° screw terminals (0.5–2.5 mm²) plus relay N/O, N/C & C connections.
- Dimensions:147 × 87 × 22 mm; weight ≈122 g.
- IP rating:IP40 when installed.
- Operating temperature:−10 °C to +55 °C.
- Mounting:Standard 25 mm double-gang back box or C-TEC NCP-26 surface box.
- Standards compliance:EN54-17/18 and EN54-13 approvals mean the CA730 meets stringent European standards for loop devices and compatibility within systems, giving confidence to specifiers and authorities having jurisdiction.
- Low power draw:With typical quiescent and alarm currents in the low milliamp range, the CA730 minimises load on the addressable loop—especially important where many devices share the same loop.
- Flexible input options:The configurable input covers multiple legacy and conventional device types, simplifying retrofit projects and hybrid systems where conventional circuits must be integrated into an addressable loop.
- Clean relay output:Volt-free changeover contact enables control of ventilation, door release, dampers or other non-powered switching functions without introducing loop wiring into those circuits.
- Built-in protection:The on-board short-circuit isolator preserves the remainder of the loop if a fault occurs, enhancing system resilience and reducing nuisance downtime during troubleshooting.
- Installer-friendly form factor:Standard back-box compatibility and clear LED indicators speed installation, commissioning and fault-finding.
Use cases and scenarios where the CA730 excels
The CA730 is versatile and finds particular value in the following contexts:
Where a building has existing conventional detectors and manual call points, the CA730 allows those devices to be monitored via the CAST loop without full rewiring. The module’s zone monitor capability supports multiple detectors and call points, enabling phased upgrades and cost-effective retrofits.
The volt-free changeover relay provides an electrically isolated way to trigger doors, fans, dampers, plant shutdowns and similar devices when an alarm condition is detected—keeping safety control circuits separate from the addressable loop wiring.
For retail, offices, schools and light industrial sites using C-TEC CAST panels, the CA730 offers a compact, low-cost option for adding monitored inputs and control outputs without occupying valuable loop addresses or requiring large enclosure space.
Because the input is configurable and supports conventional detector counts, the CA730 is ideal in hybrid scenarios where legacy systems are gradually migrated to addressable technology. Installers can maintain continuity of protection while upgrading panels and devices over time.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
Addressable I/O modules are offered by a number of manufacturers; when evaluating options, consider these differentiators where the CA730 stands out or is comparable:
- Standards and approvals:The CA730’s EN54-17/18 and EN54-13 certifications are key for projects requiring European approvals. Some competitor modules may be certified to EN54 parts but check system compatibility—C-TEC’s CAST protocol is proprietary, so direct interchangeability with other manufacturers’ loop modules is typically not possible without a supported panel.
- Loop isolation:Not all I/O modules include on-board short-circuit isolators. The CA730’s built-in isolator increases loop robustness and can reduce the need for separate isolator devices, simplifying designs.
- Input flexibility:The CA730 supports zone monitoring of multiple conventional detectors and manual call points—a feature that some basic I/O modules lack, making it preferable for retrofit projects.
- Relay ratings:The CA730’s volt-free relay is suited to many control tasks (1 A @ 30 V DC). For heavier switching loads, specialist relay modules or external interface relays may be required; competitors may offer higher current relays or multiple relays per module depending on the product line.
- Form factor and current draw:The CA730’s low quiescent current and compact size are competitive for loop density. Some competitors trade off smaller size for higher current or vice versa, so match device selection to loop capacity and cabinet space.
Customer feedback and installer perspective
While there are no individual customer testimonials included here, common themes from installer and contractor feedback on devices of this class help illustrate real-world performance expectations:
- Ease of installation:Installers often praise modules that fit standard back boxes and provide clear LED diagnostics—both traits of the CA730 that speed installation and reduce call-backs.
- Reliability:Devices with built-in loop isolators are regularly noted for delivering better uptime and simpler fault locality during maintenance, a benefit frequently highlighted by maintenance engineers.
- Flexibility for retrofits:Contractors appreciate configurable inputs that allow them to integrate existing conventional detectors without full replacement, lowering project cost and disruption.
If you require detailed user reviews for procurement, consult distributor product pages or seek feedback from peer installers who have specified the CA730 on similar projects.
Conclusion: Why choose the C-TEC CA730?
The C-TEC CA730 CAST I/O Module is a practical and standards-backed choice for projects needing a reliable monitored input and a clean relay output on a CAST addressable loop. Its EN54 approvals, on-board short-circuit isolator, configurable input options and low loop current make it particularly well suited to retrofit projects, hybrid systems and small-to-medium commercial installations. Installers will value the compact mounting, intuitive LED indicators and straightforward wiring. For specifiers requiring EN54-compliant devices integrated with C-TEC CAST panels, the CA730 combines cost-effective performance with the robustness expected in life-safety systems.
Note:Installation and servicing must be performed by a competent installer in accordance with local regulations and the manufacturer's instructions. Always isolate loop power before working on the device and consult the datasheet/installation manual for wiring diagrams and detailed guidance.
