The 4-way programmable sounder card is a compact remote I/O device for the ZXa and ZXe intelligent multi protocol fire alarm control panels. This device, along with other remote I/O devices, the repeater units and the external printer provide a complete range of peripheral devices to further enhance the functionality and expandability of the ZXa/ZXe systems. The 4-way sounder card consists of 4 supervised sounder outputs built on a single printed circuit board. Each sounder output provides a supervised 24Vdc polarity reversal circuit. This output can be used to drive bells, electronic sounders and strobes.

Each output circuit can provide up to 1A with a maximum of 3A spread over all four outputs. The 4-way sounder card connects to the ZXa/ZXe control panels via the RS485 peripheral port (Port D). An RS485 communication card must be fitted in the ZXa or ZXe intelligent multi protocol fire alarm control panel for that purpose. The "Auto-Learn" facility in the ZXa and ZXe control panels will automatically add each circuit to the list of sounder outputs in the panel. Each of these outputs can be assigned to any zone on the system and can be individually programmed for NORMAL, PULSED, DELAYED, or DOUBLE-KNOCK operation. Each sounder output is monitored for open and short circuits, with individual LED indication on the card for the status of the each circuit. An external fault input is available for monitoring a pair of external clean contact (Normally Closed) in case the 4-way sounder card is powered from an external power supply. The 4-way sounder card requires a 24V to 28 Vdc external power supply to operate. Power may be taken from the auxiliary power supply output on the ZXa/ZXe control panel or any other suitable DC supply of suitable voltage and current rating.  The RS485 peripheral address is set via an onboard DIP switch and other peripherals can be daisy chained on the same line. Up to a maximum of fifteen, four-way programmable sounder cards can be connected to a peripheral bus. This number is reduced when any other peripheral devices are used on the same bus.