Dummy Alarm Box for my Optima XM6

Leodogger

We have an old alarm system which is 21 yrs old and we rarely use it but the sounder box outside is disintegrating and we don't seem to be able to get a dummy alarm box to fit it as the backplate on the system is 390mm wide. Does anyone know where i can get a large enough box to cover it without calling out an alarm company who charge 50 pounds call out fee without supplying the box. We don't want to take out the alarm as we may want to use it in the future.

chrisw

The alarm box wiring is fairly standard and the existing sounder/ backplate probably has a rechargeable battery which is likely to have deteriorated substantially over time.

It might be better to get a complete new sounder which are about £30-£40 on eBay.

https://www.ebay.co.uk/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=p2380057.m570.l1313.TR6.TRC1.A0.H0.Xalarm+sounder.TRS0&_nkw=alarm+sounder&_sacat=0

Leodogger

Thanks Chris but I was just thinking of using dummy box as I don't really want to use the alarm and don't know if it still works.

EssexExile

Obtain or make any box of the right size, spray a gay colour to attract attention. It doesn't have to be a real alarm box.

Ant555

It depends on your level of expertise and aptitude for heights.

I did pretty much what you are describing - My Optima XM alarm system was unreliable and like you i didnt use it (Still dont) but instead of removing it, I just disabled the internal sounder remove the rusted old bell box completely and put up a new modern looking one using the existing wires - essentially im just using the existing wires as a power supply.

New one is way smaller so may not exactly be what you are looking for and you may not be interested in the hassle of getting up a ladder and connecting 2 wires.

I bought a backlit alarm sounder
https://www.alertelectrical.com/odyssey-x-be-grade-2-sounder-with-integral-backlight.html
and the cover
https://www.alertelectrical.com/odyssey-x3-cover-black-blue.html

took off old alarm box (rusted screws and really old) and installed this backlit alarm box which to all intent and purpose makes it lok like I have installed a shiny new alarm system which may, or may not, deter thieves and send them along to their next target.

There are links to disable the battery and the sounder in the instructions - I just wanted an illuminated box as a deterrent. It just sits on the side of my house illuminated with those comfort light blipping from side to side.

Hope this helps

Leodogger

I don't think that would work as they say burglars can spot a false alarm box a mile off Now thinking maybe the best course of action is to get an alarm co in to take the whole unit off the wall and install either a dummy box for us or a complete new system, but depends on the price.

Leodogger

thanks I will show this to the old man LOL, and see if he wants to do it, there is no way I am going up a ladder LOL. Good idea though and worth considering.