Audibles

We use audible devices - specifically alarms and buzzers - for a range of applications. From standard alarm systems in domestic settings to industrial alarm systems for large-scale corporations and operations, audible devices are a necessary addition to act as a warning that something is wrong.

At RS, we stock over 600 audibles, including alarms and buzzers, bells, and electronic sounders, along with sirens, horns, and voice-activated devices. They're made by industry-leading names such as ABB, Edwards Signaling, Floyd Bell Inc, and Schneider Electric, along with our own-brand RS PRO collection.

Whatever type of audible that you need for your industrial alarm system, you'll find what you need here. Shop online today and discover why we're North America's leading distributor of electrical components and accessories.

What are audibles?

An audible is an audio signaling tool. It might be a horn, buzzer, bell, or another device that makes a sound when activated. How it operates depends on the particular audible device in question.

For instance, the audio signal in a buzzer is activated when voltage is applied. This is usually a DC voltage. While its name suggests that a buzzing sound will be created, it's possible for an alarm or siren sound to come from activating a buzzer. Therefore, if you're investing in an industrial alarm, a buzzer could be suitable.

In an electronically activated bell, on the other hand, electromagnets are activated when a switch is moved to the 'on' mode. A hammer or other component is mounted to a spring and hits the gong part of the bell, causing it to vibrate and emit a sound. As the hammer moves, the circuit breaks, causing the hammer to move back to its original position. The process repeats, making the sound continue until the switch is turned off.

In some cases, the appropriate device is an audible and visual alarm. Here, as well as making a sound, these alarms use pulsating lights to alert those that may have hearing difficulties that there is a fire or other danger.

The audible that you use depends on the application.

Why use audibles?

There are several uses for audibles. One of the most common reasons to use these devices is as a warning signal. In industrial settings, audible alarm systems comprising buzzers, bells and sirens can be useful for alerting workers that something isn't right.

It may be that there's an intruder on the building site, in which case a siren could be a suitable audible device, or it could be that there's a fire, so a bell might be appropriate. You might need an audible and visual alarm system in offices or other settings where there might be someone who has a hearing impairment, and they need to know that there's a fire or other danger.

As well as being a warning device that there are intruders or a fire, audibles are used to show that something is a potential hazard. For instance, a siren or horn lets people know that a machine or vehicle is moving, therefore others need to be aware and alerted that there's a potential risk. How we react to these sounds will be similar, but their purpose differs slightly to other audible alarm systems.

Applications for audible devices

There are different applications for audible devices. There are domestic settings where alarms and buzzers are needed to alert homeowners that there are intruders, as well as devices that are more suited to industrial alarm systems in offices, warehouses, and public buildings such as prisons and hospitals.

Audible and visual alarms are also suited to public spaces. Student accommodation, hospitals, and hotels are all examples of spaces where those who have impaired hearing will need to know if there's a fire or other issue that requires them to evacuate the building.

Whatever job on which you're working, you'll have the alarms and buzzers listed as a priority. Choose RS so that you can easily set up your alarm system.

Order your audible devices direct from RS

No matter your next project, whether it's commercial or industrial, choose RS for your audible and visual alarm system components. Use the filters to select the manufacturer for which you're looking or the category that you need. Should you be looking for a specific product, simply search using the keyword. We've categorized by type, from bells and horns to sirens and buzzers.

Our wide-ranging stock of elite, branded products offers the highest-quality electrical components, along with audible accessories. That's why we're a leading distributor of electronic parts across North America.

Our advice hub also offers plenty of information and guides, all designed to help you with your next project.