Introduction to the Texecom Premier Odyssey 4E and its key features
Texecom Premier Odyssey 4E External Sounder Strobe (FCD-0264)is a low-profile wired external bell box that combines a powerful 109 dB piezo sounder with a 1 Ws xenon strobe in a compact polycarbonate enclosure. Designed for residential and light-commercial intruder alarm installations, the Odyssey 4E offers tamper protection, an internal NiMH backup battery, selectable low-current modes to minimise panel load, and an IP44-protected electronics compartment. Its compact dimensions and easy installation make it a popular option for installers and security contractors looking for a reliable external alarm solution that balances visibility, audibility and unobtrusive design.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
- Supply Voltage:12–16 V DC (13.7 V nominal) — compatible with the majority of wired intruder alarm control panels.
- Current drain:Multiple selectable modes (typical modes: 285 mA / 160 mA / 30 mA; quiescent 18 mA) — allows installers to reduce the load on the control panel when required, useful for systems with limited auxiliary current capacity.
- Installation convenience:Selectable low-current modes and an engineer hold-off feature simplify safe installation and maintenance by allowing the device to be kept silent during commissioning.
- Sound output:109 dB peak at 1 m (A-weighted, 90°) — sufficiently loud for front-of-property warning and deterrence in most domestic and light-commercial settings.
- Strobe:1 Ws xenon flash tube with a typical ~1 Hz flash rate — the xenon strobe provides strong visual indication for passersby and responders, improving detection in well-lit or daytime conditions.
- Tamper-response behaviour:Flashing patterns can alternate in tamper-secure modes for clearer signaling of tamper events.
- Standby battery:NiMH 7.2 V, 250 mAh internal battery — provides backup operation if supply is lost, ensuring continued alarm signaling for a period sufficient for typical external bell box requirements.
- Engineer hold-off:Patented hold-off mode allows installers to maintain safety and silence during setup and service without removing power from the panel.
- Ingress protection:IP44-protected electronics enclosure — protects against splashing water and solid objects over 1 mm, suitable for most exposed wall-mounted installations under eaves or sheltered positions.
- Housing:3 mm polycarbonate — durable, UV-resistant and impact-resistant for outdoor use.
- Tamper detection:Wall and lid tamper sensors — helps alert when the unit is being interfered with, boosting site security.
- Dimensions & weight:310 × 196 × 58.5 mm; packed weight ~1250 g — compact footprint for easy siting without dominating a building façade.
- Identification:Model / SKU FCD-0264 (supplier code ITM004154) in the Premier Odyssey 4E series.
Benefits at a glance
- High audible output (109 dB) for effective deterrence and alarm notification.
- Bright xenon strobe adds a visual layer of alerting for daytime and noisy environments.
- Integrated backup battery ensures continued operation during power loss.
- Selectable low-current modes reduce auxiliary panel load, making it compatible with a wider range of control panels.
- Compact, robust polycarbonate housing with tamper detection for reliable outdoor use.
Use cases and scenarios where the Odyssey 4E excels
The Odyssey 4E is aimed at applications where a balance of power, compactness and cost-effectiveness is required. Typical installations and scenarios include:
- Domestic properties:For homes requiring a visible and audible deterrent that does not overwhelm the street scene. The unit’s size keeps it visually discreet while the 109 dB output is adequate to alert neighbours and discourage intruders.
- Small retail premises and offices:Shopfronts, small offices and light-commercial buildings benefit from the combination of sound and strobe for clear external signaling and rapid responder awareness.
- Garages, outbuildings and workshops:Where an external notification device is needed but space is limited, the Odyssey 4E offers strong performance without a bulky footprint.
- New installations and retrofits:The selectable low-current modes and standard 12–16 V DC supply make it easy to fit to existing panels, and the engineer hold-off streamlines commissioning.
- Installers and security contractors:Those who want a reliable, straightforward wired solution with tamper protection and battery backup for fast deployment.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When choosing an external bell box or sounder-strobe there are several factors to weigh: sound level, strobe intensity, backup power, tamper protection, ingress rating, footprint and power consumption. The Odyssey 4E positions itself as a compact, cost-effective wired option with solid all-round performance. Some points to consider in comparison:
- Wired vs wireless sounders:Wireless external sounders can reduce installation time and avoid routing cables, but they require robust radio links and batteries that are periodically replaced. The Odyssey 4E’s wired connection and internal rechargeable NiMH battery offer consistent performance without reliance on replaceable cells.
- Higher output sirens:There are external sirens on the market with greater than 120 dB output intended for large industrial sites or open yards. Those are louder but typically bulkier, more visually intrusive and consume more power. For domestic and light-commercial use, 109 dB offers a strong compromise between audibility and acceptability in residential areas.
- Integrated vs separate strobes:Some systems use separate strobes and sirens to optimise placement. The integrated approach of the Odyssey 4E simplifies installation and reduces component count, making it attractive where a single, centrally mounted unit suffices.
- Ingress and robustness:Units with IP65 or higher offer better protection for exposed coastal sites or areas with direct weather exposure. The Odyssey 4E’s IP44 rating is suitable for most sheltered or partially exposed wall locations; sites with severe exposure should consider higher IP-rated alternatives or sheltered mounting.
Customer testimonials and installer feedback
There are limited formal consumer reviews specific to every SKU of security hardware, but feedback typically reported by installers and end users for this class of device and the Texecom Odyssey range includes:
- "Straightforward to install and commission — the engineer hold-off and low-current modes make life much easier when working on older panels." — Typical installer feedback.
- "Compact and unobtrusive on the house exterior but loud enough to get attention when needed." — Common homeowner observation.
- "Integrated battery and tamper detection add real value compared with cheaper, no-backup models." — Installer/contractor viewpoint.
If purchasing, check supplier pages or trade forums for any model-specific reviews and installation notes to get first-hand accounts from other buyers and technicians.
Conclusion — why the Premier Odyssey 4E is a great choice
The Texecom Premier Odyssey 4E (FCD-0264) is a balanced external sounder-strobe that pairs effective deterrence with installer-friendly features. Its 109 dB peak output and 1 Ws xenon strobe provide clear audible and visual alerting suitable for domestic and small commercial premises. Selectable low-current modes and an internal NiMH backup battery support compatibility with a wide range of control panels and provide resilience in the event of mains loss. The compact polycarbonate housing with wall and lid tamper detection makes it a practical choice where a discreet yet capable external bell box is required.
With a suggested retail price of £36.99 (cost price example £26.48), the Odyssey 4E offers strong value for money for installers and customers seeking a reliable wired external alarm solution. As with any security device, ensure installation is performed by a qualified installer and that you consult the official Texecom datasheet for wiring, mounting and conformity information before fitting.
