Introduction to the Pyronix EURO‑ZEM8 and its key features
Product overview:The Pyronix EURO‑ZEM8 is an 8‑zone wired input expander designed for use with Pyronix EURO series control panels. Housed in a compact polycarbonate/plastic enclosure and backed by a 2‑year manufacturer warranty, the EURO‑ZEM8 provides a straightforward and reliable way to add eight additional detector inputs to a compatible alarm system. It supports either end‑of‑line (EOL) resistor wiring or double‑pole wiring per zone, includes four on‑board transistor outputs for signalling or control, and features a case tamper switch for enhanced security.
- 8 wired inputs (EOL or double‑pole) to expand alarm coverage
- Four on‑board transistor outputs for external signalling/control
- Compact polycarbonate/plastic housing with integrated case tamper
- Operating voltage 10.5–15 V DC and low quiescent current (~40 mA)
- Dimensions suitable for modest panel cabinets: module 173 × 126 × 31 mm
- Manufacturer warranty: 2 years
Detailed specifications and benefits
Technical specifications:The EURO‑ZEM8 is specified as an 8‑zone input expander (model/SKU: EURO‑ZEM8) with 8 wired inputs configurable for EOL or double‑pole wiring, 4 transistor outputs, and a PCB dimension of 112 × 64 × 17 mm. The enclosure measures 173 × 126 × 31 mm and the unit weighs approximately 260 g. It operates from 10.5–15 V DC with a quiescent current of around 40 mA, and a recommended operating temperature range of −10 °C to +40 °C. Security certifications referenced by the manufacturer include EN50131 and PD6662 family references—installers should consult official Pyronix documentation for precise grade and certification details for their SKU.
Benefits explained:
- Scalable zoning:Adding eight zones per module lets installers scale systems without replacing the main control panel. For sites that may expand over time—growing households, larger rooms converted into secured spaces, or phased commercial fit‑outs—the ZEM8 provides an economical expansion path.
- Flexible wiring options:Support for EOL resistor wiring or double‑pole wiring gives compatibility with a wide range of detectors and wiring preferences. EOL wiring simplifies supervision and fault detection, while double‑pole wiring can be useful for certain sensor types that require separate switching conductors.
- Transistor outputs for control and signalling:Four on‑board transistor outputs make it easy to drive external devices such as LED indicators, relays, sounders (via appropriate interfacing), or other signalling equipment without needing additional modules.
- Low power draw:With a quiescent current close to 40 mA, the EURO‑ZEM8 minimizes additional load on system power supplies and batteries. This is especially important in battery‑backed alarm panels where added modules can reduce backup time if power consumption is high.
- Physical security:The case tamper switch helps protect the module against unauthorised removal or tampering, an important consideration for maintaining system integrity.
- Compact and installer‑friendly:The polycarbonate housing is lightweight and easy to mount inside cabinets or enclosures. The compact PCB footprint supports neat wiring and tidy installations.
Use cases and scenarios where EURO‑ZEM8 excels
The EURO‑ZEM8 is well suited to a range of residential and commercial scenarios. Below are common use cases where the module typically adds value:
For existing houses with a Pyronix EURO control panel, homeowners who add outbuildings, converted lofts, or new rooms often need extra zones. The EURO‑ZEM8 lets installers expand the system quickly without replacing the main control unit. The plastic housing and modest size make it easy to install in lofts, cupboards or panel cabinets.
Retail shops, small offices, and light industrial units commonly require more zones than a base panel provides—especially where separate detection areas (storage, sales area, offices, loading bays) are needed. The ZEM8 delivers additional supervised inputs for these spaces and allows for signalling outputs to control external devices such as strobes, local sounders via relays, or remote indicators.
In projects where security upgrades are implemented in stages, the EURO‑ZEM8 provides a cost‑effective way to add capacity as budgets allow. Installers can fit one or multiple expanders over time, matching zone count to the current phase of the project.
Environments that use combinations of detector types (PIRs, magnetic contacts, glassbreak sensors) may need flexibility in wiring topology and supervision. The option to wire EOL resistors or use double‑pole wiring means the ZEM8 can be adapted to a variety of detector wiring needs.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When selecting a zone expander, key considerations include housing, power handling, outputs, supervision, and cost. The EURO‑ZEM8 compares favorably across these dimensions for many applications, but it’s helpful to understand common alternatives:
- EURO‑ZEM8 vs EURO‑ZEM8+PSU (Pyronix metal housing & PSU variant):The EURO‑ZEM8+PSU variant features a metal enclosure and an integrated power supply unit, which can be advantageous where additional regulated power is required at the module location or where a robust metal enclosure is preferred for security grade installations. By contrast, the plain EURO‑ZEM8 in polycarbonate housing is lighter, less expensive, and ideal when an integrated PSU isn’t necessary.
- Wired expanders vs wireless expanders:Wireless expanders or wireless detector networks reduce cabling but introduce battery maintenance and RF considerations. The EURO‑ZEM8’s wired inputs offer reliable supervision, lower ongoing maintenance, and are preferred where continuous, supervised connections are required—such as high‑security zones.
- Compared to other manufacturer expanders (general):Many alarm manufacturers provide similar expanders (e.g., Texecom, DSC, Honeywell/Ademco variants). The main differentiators are integration with the specific control panel ecosystem, available outputs, housing options, and power characteristics. The EURO‑ZEM8 is tailored for Pyronix EURO panels, so its chief advantage is native compatibility and seamless integration with Pyronix configuration and firmware.
Customer feedback and installer impressions (representative)
Note:The following are representative installer and end‑user impressions commonly reported for this class of module and the EURO‑ZEM8 in particular. They are intended to illustrate typical real‑world experiences rather than verbatim reviews.
- "Compact and straightforward — the module is easy to fit inside standard panel cabinets and the wiring layout is logical. The tamper adds reassurance for commercial installs." — Residential installer (representative feedback)
- "Good value for an 8‑zone expander. Low current draw helps preserve battery life on smaller systems. The transistor outputs are useful for driving external indicators." — Small business systems integrator (representative feedback)
- "We often choose the plastic‑housed ZEM8 where an integrated PSU isn't needed. For projects that need a PSU or a more rugged enclosure we opt for the ZEM8+PSU variant." — Installer managing mixed project types (representative feedback)
Conclusion: Why the EURO‑ZEM8 is a strong choice
The Pyronix EURO‑ZEM8 8‑zone input expander offers a pragmatic blend of features, flexibility, and value for projects that require additional wired zones on Pyronix EURO control panels. Its support for both EOL and double‑pole wiring, four transistor outputs, case tamper, and modest power consumption make it suitable for a wide range of residential and small to medium commercial installations. The compact polycarbonate housing and straightforward installation help keep labour and material costs down, while the 2‑year warranty provides buyer reassurance.
For projects where a metal enclosure or integrated power supply is needed, Pyronix’s alternate EURO‑ZEM8+PSU variant may be more appropriate. However, if you need a cost‑effective, reliable expander to add eight supervised wired inputs with additional signalling outputs, the EURO‑ZEM8 is a practical, installer‑friendly solution.
Pricing note:The suggested retail price for the EURO‑ZEM8 often positions it as a competitively priced accessory relative to full panel upgrades. For accurate pricing and stock availability consult authorised Pyronix distributors or your usual professional supplier.
