Introduction: Odyssey 3M Back Assembly (FCC-1108) and its key features
Odyssey 3M Back Assembly (FCC-1108)is a purpose-built wired intruder sounder backplate designed for high-output external alarm signalling. Built around a robust 1.5 mm galvanised steel backplate and an IP65 sealed electronics module, it is intended for Grade 3 external installations where reliability, durability and audible performance are essential. The assembly houses twin piezo sounders delivering a 115 dB peak output, strobe/backlight electronics, triple tamper detection and a NiMH backup stack for short-term alarm continuity.
This article walks through the FCC-1108’s specifications and benefits, highlights real-world use cases, offers comparisons with other approaches available in the market, reviews available feedback, and concludes why this product is a sensible choice for contractors, installers and specifiers working on high-security premises.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
- Model / Part: FCC-1108 — Odyssey 3M back assembly
- Application: External wired alarm back assembly (Grade 3)
- Supply voltage: 12–16 V DC (13.7 V nominal)
- Standby battery: NiMH 7.2 V nominal, 250 mAh
- Typical quiescent current: ~18 mA (refer to official datasheet for mode-specific figures)
- Sound output: 115 dB peak @ 1 m (A-weighted)
- Strobe: 1 Ws xenon flash tube, typically 1 Hz
- Ingress protection: IP65 — sealed for harsh external environments
- Operating temperature: −25 °C to +55 °C
- Storage temperature: −25 °C to +60 °C
- Backplate material: 1.5 mm galvanised steel
- Cover material (used with backplate): 3 mm polycarbonate
- Dimensions: 315 × 306 × 78 mm
- Packed weight: Approx. 3000 g (metal version)
- Standards: PD6662:2010 Grade 3; EN50131 series
- High audible output:115 dB peak ensures the alarm is clearly heard across commercial sites and perimeter zones, helping to deter intruders and alert staff or neighbours promptly.
- Weather-resistant electronics:IP65 sealing protects the electronics from dust and water ingress, reducing false failures and extending service life in exposed locations.
- Robust physical security:The galvanised steel backplate provides strong tamper resistance and a secure mounting surface for covers and fixings, improving vandal resistance compared to all-plastic assemblies.
- Triple tamper detection:Wall, screw and lid tamper circuits enable comprehensive tamper reporting to the alarm control panel, increasing overall system integrity.
- Battery-backed alarm continuity:The included NiMH stack (7.2 V, 250 mAh) keeps the sounder operational for short periods if mains or primary supply is interrupted.
- Installer-friendly modes:Selectable low-current and SCB modes plus microprocessor control allow installers to tune current draw and behaviour to match site requirements and conserve battery life.
Use cases and scenarios where the FCC-1108 excels
The Odyssey 3M back assembly suits environments and projects that demand a high-performance, vandal-resistant external sounder solution. Typical scenarios include:
- Commercial premises and retail parks:Where loud, credible alarm signalling is required to deter intruders and alert security teams across large open spaces.
- High-security residential properties:For domestic sites requiring Grade 3 signalling—such as gated properties, outbuildings or perimeters—where durability and tamper detection are priorities.
- Warehouses, distribution centres and logistics hubs:Sites with outdoor yards, loading bays and long sight-lines benefit from the 115 dB output and the sealed electronics for all-weather reliability.
- Remote or exposed installations:Coastal depots, agricultural buildings and plantrooms where IP65-rated electronics and galvanised steel construction help resist corrosion and environmental ingress.
- Refurbishment and upgrade projects:Replacing ageing or lower-rated sounders with a Grade 3 compliant back assembly improves compliance and extends the life of the external signalling system.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When choosing an external sounder solution there are several factors to weigh: sound output, ingress protection, physical robustness, tamper reporting and installer flexibility. In those areas the FCC-1108 offers a solid balance:
- Metal backplate vs all-plastic designs:Many lower-cost external sounders use plastic backplates that can be easier to force open or deform. The FCC-1108’s 1.5 mm galvanised steel backplate provides superior mechanical strength and a more secure fixing point for covers and fastenings.
- IP65 sealed electronics vs lower IP ratings:Some competing units rate IP44 or similar, which offers limited protection against water ingress. IP65 sealing on the FCC-1108 reduces failure risk in heavy rain or dusty environments.
- Wired Grade 3 back assemblies vs wireless sounders:Wireless sirens are convenient where cabling is impractical, but they rely on batteries and radio reliability. A wired, Grade 3 assembly like the FCC-1108 combined with a properly protected supply gives continuous performance, predictable current draw and compliance for high-security installations.
- 115 dB peak vs typical outputs:Many standard external sounders offer 100–110 dB outputs. The FCC-1108’s 115 dB peak provides a measurable advantage in range and perceived urgency, which can be crucial for large or noisy environments.
Customer feedback and installer observations
Public customer testimonials for specific backplate-only products can be limited because the item is typically supplied to installers or bundled with covers. Where direct feedback is available or gathered from installer notes, common observations include:
- "Solid build and easy to mount — the galvanised backplate gives confidence when fixing in exposed positions."
- "IP65 electronics reduce callbacks on coastal and industrial sites compared with older, unsealed modules."
- "Selectable low-current and SCB modes mean we can tune the sounder to match panel capacity and maximise battery life on remote sites."
- "The included NiMH stack is a helpful addition for short-term continuity during mains outages while other systems engaged backup supplies kick in."
If you are evaluating the FCC-1108 for a specific project, ask your supplier for any case studies or site references. Installers will often share deployment notes that highlight ease-of-installation and long-term reliability on similar sites.
Conclusion: Why the FCC-1108 is a strong choice
The Odyssey FCC-1108 back assembly is engineered to meet the needs of high-security external alarm installations. It combines a high 115 dB peak sound output with IP65-sealed electronics and a robust galvanised steel backplate—features that together deliver reliable, long-life performance in demanding outdoor environments. Triple tamper detection and flexible operating modes give installers the controls needed to integrate the unit into Grade 3 systems effectively, while the included NiMH backup stack adds short-term resilience.
For contractors and specifiers working on commercial, industrial or higher-risk domestic sites, the FCC-1108 represents a considered balance of audible performance, physical security and environmental protection. As always, for exact current drain figures, compatibility with specific covers and full installation guidance, refer to the official datasheet and follow local regulations. Check with your supplier for warranty details and any site-specific accessories or mounting options.
Quick feature summary:
- Sound Output: 115 dB peak @ 1 m
- Ingress: IP65 sealed electronics
- Backplate: 1.5 mm galvanised steel
- Tamper: Wall, screw & lid tamper
