Siemens Smart Infrastructure has launched a new compact version of its Cerberus PACE Modular system, further extending the range of applications in which the public address voice alarm (PA/VA) solution can be employed.

Together, Cerberus PACE Modular and Compact offer a comprehensive PA/VA solution, which can beintegrated with fire protection and danger management systems. This enables evengreater customisation to protect lives, assets and business continuity.  

“Thanks to the Cerberus PACE systems, the user can cover all public and voice alarm needs with a single solution. By sharing the same state of the art technology as the modular system, but addressing small and simple applications, the Cerberus PACE Compact enables extensive customisation and is a cost-efficient solution for customers,” said Mario Kahlert, Head of Fire Safety at Siemens Smart Infrastructure. 

The range of potential applications covers any situation which requires high performing and reliable PA/VA, including offices, hotels, airports, commercial facilities and educational buildings. As with the Modular system, Cerberus PACE Compact incorporates multiple redundancy levels and is also suitable for step-by- step modernisation of outdated systems. The system’s professional sound quality and low latency enable clear communication, both in emergency situations and for day-to-day announcements or music. 

Maximised performance for maximised safety 

PA/VA systems are crucial for addressing people in the event of an emergency, requiring clear communication to trigger and then manage a prompt evacuation. Cerberus PACE Compact is available in two versions: Compact 400 and Compact 1000. Wall mounted, despite its comparatively small size, Cerberus PACE Compact offers power of up to 2000 watts and an additional backup amplifier and pilot tone amplifier – the sort of performance that is conventionally only available from much larger, rack-mounted systems. 

Cerberus PACE systems are fully compliant with the EN 54-16 standard and local codes of practice in European countries. The systems can cover all redundancy, ensuring there is adequate back-up. To support the safety-first approach, both high performing and reliable systems stand for no single point of failure, thanks to distributed intelligence, where each network participant has a CPU (a chip that allows the device to be made independent). 

Ensured business continuity 

For convenient setup and management of all components, Cerberus PACE comes with dedicated configuration software and real-time engineering. The system can be configured live, while it is running, without causing any interruption to day-to-day activities. No shut down is necessary for maintenance or to change the configuration, with remote access ensuring business continuity, whatever the environment. This is a crucial consideration for many applications where 24/7 operation is required. 

Flexibility and compatibility  

The state-of-the-art modular and scalable system architecture ensures that Cerberus PACE can be customised for buildings of all types and requirements. Cerberus PACE Compact can be combined with the Modular system using the same network and configuration tools to offer a wider choice of ancillary products (for example, amplifiers or audio matrix), while also enabling cost optimisation.

In addition, both systems can be used for stepwise modernisations of older voice alarmsystems (often using existing cabling), making it possible to futureproof the systemto meet changing demands. Different connection options (loop, stub line, double stub lines, and even compatibility with star structures or T-taps) offer greater flexibility during the installation process.