Could someone please explain to me what exactly programable outputs are and what they can be used for????

Programable outputs?

An intruder panel usually comes from the factory with preset outputs to carryout standard events,these are either via a set of clean relay contacts which change state when instructed by the control panel software or an output at a terminal controled by an electronic device built into the control board(transistorised output)

this could be a negative voltage potential switching to positive or vice versa.

They usually are allocated the tasks of firing the sounders/strobes in alarm or a certain digital code via a digital communicator when one is fitted.

To give greater flexabilty some panels also have extra outputs whose responses can be changed from the factory default,for example a programmable out put no'1 is factory set to change from a transistorised 0v to a 12 positive out put capable of driving a 100m/amp device when the system is set,this could be used to send "set" signal via a speach dialer to a mobile phone.but if this was not required then the output could be reprogrammed to give the same or a different output during the course of the setting procedure this could be used to switch anything via a relay ie real time recording of the final exit door on cctv or a remote buzzer the options are only limited by the manufacturers programme options, hope this has been a help to explain,regards Paul