Unexpected Elk Out2 behavior

[mikefamig]

I had something unexpected happen with the Elk recently. I connected an ATW model DS-50 self contained siren to out 2 and used a rule to chirp the siren. I'm doing this so that the siren can chirp when I use the key-fob to arm and disarm the house. So I tested the rule and the siren chirped, so far so good.
 
The strange thing is that I forgot to set the global G26 to "voltage output" and it was set to "siren output". I wouldn't expect a self contained siren to make any sound by sending the Elk "siren output" to it. I switched the global over to voltage output and the siren still works but with a slightly different sound to it.
 
What gives?
 
Mike.

 

[RAL]

In speaker output mode, OUT2 produces a waveform that creates the siren sound.  That's still a voltage, although one that varies in intensity.  It's enough that a siren could get enough power from it to produce some sound.

 

[Del91574]

Siren output is essentially an AC waveform with a DC carrier. Voltage is strictly DC.
 
Siren output has enough oomph to usually drive a self contained siren. Not a recommended practice.

 

[mikefamig]

Thanks both. I was careful enough not to do it twice.

 

[ecborgoyn]

....  has enough oomph ...

Is that the technical term?

 

[mikefamig]

Yes it's a synonym for juice.