PDC-624 24VDC Powered Bell

The Potter PDC-624 (P/N 1750501) is a 24VDC electrically powered alarm bell designed for use with Potter fire alarm control panels as a fire alarm notification appliance. When the fire alarm control panel activates a notification appliance circuit (NAC) during an alarm condition, the PDC-624 bell produces a loud, attention-commanding audible signal that alerts building occupants to evacuate. It is a proven, reliable fire bell sign of an active alarm in commercial and light industrial facilities.

The 24VDC power supply standard makes the PDC-624 compatible with the full range of Potter fire alarm control panels and virtually all standard fire alarm power supplies. The bell's sturdy metal construction provides durability in challenging environments including warehouses, manufacturing facilities, and commercial buildings where mechanical notification devices are preferred for their reliability and distinctly recognizable sound compared to electronic tone generators.

For fire alarm equipment supplies contractors and fire alarm parts suppliers, the PDC-624 is a high-demand fire alarm notification appliance that is specified across a wide range of commercial fire alarm signalling systems. Its straightforward 24VDC wiring makes installation fast and its UL listing ensures compliance with NFPA 72 notification appliance requirements for audible alarm output levels.

Placement Requirements

Per NFPA 72, fire alarm notification appliances must be placed so that the audible alarm signal meets the minimum sound pressure level requirements throughout the protected space. The PDC-624 bell should be mounted per the manufacturer's instructions at the height and location specified in the system design drawings. Consult the system designer's coverage calculations to ensure the bell placement meets the dB level requirements for all occupancy areas.

NAC Circuit Wiring

Wire the PDC-624 to the fire alarm control panel's notification appliance circuit (NAC) using the correct wire gauge and polarity per the Potter wiring diagram. The bell is polarity-sensitive — incorrect polarity will prevent operation. Install end-of-line devices per the NAC circuit configuration required by the panel. Verify current draw is within the panel's NAC circuit capacity.

Annual Testing

Test the PDC-624 annually during the fire alarm notification appliance system test per NFPA 72. Verify the bell activates correctly and the sound output is audible throughout the coverage area. Document the test result in the fire alarm inspection and test records. Fire alarm inspection stickers on the panel should be updated after each successful annual test.

Can this bell be used on a non-Potter fire alarm system?

Yes. The PDC-624 operates on standard 24VDC NAC power and is compatible with any fire alarm control panel that provides a 24VDC notification appliance circuit. While designed for Potter systems, its standard electrical interface makes it compatible with most conventional fire alarm signalling systems from other manufacturers.

What is the sound output level of the PDC-624?

Refer to the PDC-624 data sheet for the rated dB output level at the specified test distance. NFPA 72 requires audible fire alarm notification appliances to produce a minimum sound pressure level of 15 dB above the average ambient sound level or 65 dB at the pillow level for sleeping areas, whichever is greater. Verify the PDC-624's rated output meets these requirements for your specific occupancy during system design.

Is this bell suitable for outdoor installation?

Verify the PDC-624's environmental rating in the Potter data sheet before outdoor installation. Many standard alarm bells require a weatherproof backbox for outdoor or wet location use. If outdoor installation is required, confirm the bell and enclosure combination meets the IP or NEMA rating required for the installation environment.