Patlite Unveils Panel-Mount Audible Alarm With High-Volume Sound Output

Patlite’s new BD series audible alarm provides a whopping 98 dB in a slim, panel-mounted package. The alarm measures a standard 80-mm square but sits only 54 mm deep, making it much thinner than previous models. Even with its compact size, it delivers a loud sound, making it audible across a noisy manufacturing plant.

The BD-M audible alarm is available in off-white and dark gray. Image used courtesy of Patlite

Simple Operation and Sound Selection

A key feature of Patlite’s BD series audible alarm is the inclusion of just the right number of potential sounds. There are 32 available sirens, alarms, buzzers, and other common sounds, selectable via a DIP switch on the back of the alarm. Furthermore, up to four sounds can be selected via bit input, making it possible to programmatically change sounds based on alarm conditions.

Once mounted, these DIP switches will take a little effort to change, which is ideal for the industrial environment, as technicians cannot change them easily. While some alarm systems offer the option to use an SD card for user-defined sounds, this can undermine uniformity across devices. Instead, similar devices can sound identical alarms, helping technicians locate problem machines quickly.

The BD-M alarm features a built-in sound library with 32 options. Image used courtesy of Patlite

Each alarm has a volume adjustment screw as well. The adjustment requires a screwdriver, meaning it cannot be turned down accidentally or by a technician sick of nuisance alarms.

It should be noted that OSHA defines the hazardous threshold for hearing protection at 85 dB on a time-weighted average basis. Therefore, for repeated or nearly continuous alarms, the volume should be set below this threshold. However, for occasional warnings, 98 dB is in the sweet spot, letting technicians know about an issue even in a noisy manufacturing environment without causing hearing damage.

A Rugged, Vibration-Resistant Design

The panel alarm is IP65-rated and features a 4.5 G vibration rating, making it suitable for dusty or humid environments. Installing the alarm into a panel is simple, too. Turning a screw moves a small bracket behind the panel, solidly locking it in place. There is no need to fight small screws and nuts in a tight space. Technicians do not need to fight small screws and nuts in tight spaces or work from the back of the control panel; all installation can be performed from the front, once the DIP switches are set and the cabling is connected.

The BD-M’s screw-mounting mechanism allows for simple installation from the front of the panel. Image courtesy of Patlite

This alarm is available in both NPN and PNP models. Both configurations are available for 12-24 V DC power, and a 100-240 V AC version is available in an NPN configuration.

Audible Alarm for Any Environment

Machine builders will appreciate the small, but powerful alarm. The ease of installation, compact size, and IP65 rating mean it can be mounted on new or existing control panels without being a significant design consideration. Choosing the sound via DIP switch over SD card makes this alarm simple and promotes uniformity across machines.