Klaxon Sonos Fire Alarm Sounder, 9-60V DC, Red, Deep Base, IP65 PSS-0020

What this sounder is for

A sounder gives the audible warning in an alarm system once a panel or controller calls for it. This Klaxon Sonos model is a general purpose electronic unit with fire, security and industrial uses.

It suits installers who need one sounder for both inside and outside a building, such as a warehouse or plant area, and anyone replacing a matching unit.

How it works

• TimeSaver base: connections go to the base during the initial wiring phase. The head then goes on at commissioning, so it stays clean while other trades finish.
• Synchronised tones: sounders on the same circuit stay in step, so the alarm sounds as one signal and not a jumble.
• Off-base adjustment: tone and volume can be set before the head goes on the base.

Where to use it

The deep base and IP65 weatherproof protection suit loading bays, outside walls and damp plant rooms as well as dry interiors. The -25ºC to +70ºC range covers unheated spaces.

As a rule, a red unit is used for a fire signal. The alarm plan for the building decides where each sounder goes.

What the figures mean in practice

• Up to 106dB (A) at 1m: this is measured close to the unit. Sound falls away with distance and doors, so space sounders using the system designer's plan.
• 4-41mA: the current depends on the tone you choose, so add up the figure for your chosen tone across the circuit.
• 400-2850Hz: the span of frequencies across the tones. A mix of pitches helps a sounder stand out from background noise.
• Continuous rating: it is rated to keep sounding for as long as the alarm is active.

Installing it

• Cable entry: the deep base takes 2 x 20mm cable glands. Choose glands that keep the IP65 rating on an outdoor job.
• First fix: wire the bases first, then fit heads at commissioning.
• Voltage drop: on a fire system, check at least 17V reaches the furthest unit under alarm load.
• Same tone: as a rule, set every unit on a system to the same tone so that occupants hear one clear signal.

Planning your system

Check the panel's sounder circuit can supply the total current of every device. Add suitable cable and glands for the route, and a separate beacon where a visual signal is also needed.

Standards and ratings explained

• EN54 3 Type B: the standard for fire alarm sounders. Type B means outdoor use.
• IP65: dust tight, and protected against water jets from any direction.