Introduction: Meet the Impaq SC Combined Shock & Contact Sensor (AEK-0003)
The Impaq SC (AEK-0003) is a compact, wired alarm sensor that combines two critical perimeter protections in one: a shock (vibration) detector and a magnetic contact. Designed for doors, windows, shutters and other access points, the SC variant brings together a 3-axis VIBER™ accelerometer with digital signal processing (DSP) and an integrated magnetic reed contact in a single enclosure. Certified to EN50131 (Grade 2) and engineered for straightforward installation, the Impaq SC is intended for professional trade and capable DIY installations where reliable, low‑nuisance perimeter detection is required.
Key features at a glance
- Combined protection:Shock and magnetic contact in one unit to reduce device count and wiring.
- High sensitivity with false‑alarm immunity:3‑axis VIBER™ accelerometer plus DSP and microprocessor algorithms to detect sub‑surface forced entry while rejecting airborne noise.
- Installer‑friendly wiring:Built‑in end‑of‑line (EOL) resistors and LED‑assisted setup make panel integration and tuning straightforward.
- Tunable sensitivity:Five selectable digital sensitivity levels to suit different environments and mounting substrates.
- Grade & standards:EN50131‑2‑8:2017 and PD6662:2017 Grade 2 (environmental class II) for indoor perimeter applications.
- Electrical compatibility:9–16 V DC operation with low quiescent current (~12.8 mA).
Detailed specifications and benefits
- Operating voltage:9–16 V DC — compatible with the majority of wired intruder alarm panels used in residential and commercial settings.
- Quiescent current:Approximately 12.8 mA, with a maximum current draw of 15.4 mA — suitable for systems where multiple wired sensors share power budgets.
- Built‑in EOL resistors:Simplifies wiring to comply with panel supervised input requirements and reduces time on site for installers.
- 3‑axis VIBER™ accelerometer:Monitors vibration across all three axes, increasing the probability of detecting forced‑entry techniques applied in different directions.
- DSP and microprocessor algorithms:Analyze vibration signatures to discriminate between genuine tamper/attack vibrations and everyday environmental noise (passing traffic, slamming doors, wind‑blown shutters).
- Five sensitivity levels:LED‑assisted setup enables installers to tune the device to fragile window frames, heavy doors, roller shutters or metal frames without creating nuisance alarms.
- Dimensions:Sensor — 86 × 25 × 21 mm; Magnet — 57 × 11.5 mm; weight ~80 g. Compact profile suits narrow frames and discreet installations.
- Finish options:White, Brown, Anthracite Grey, Black — multiple finishes help the sensor blend with common door and window frames.
- Operating environment:−10°C to +55°C, 0–95% RH (non‑condensing), Environmental Class II — intended for indoor perimeter mounting.
- Reduced device count:Combining shock and contact detection in one unit lowers the number of devices to source, mount and wire — useful on tight frame areas or for retrofits where wiring access is limited.
- Fewer nuisance alarms:DSP and multi‑level sensitivity reduce the incidence of false alarms from harmless vibrations, saving maintenance time and improving system reliability.
- Faster, compliant installations:Built‑in EOL resistors and clear LED setup guidance shorten commissioning time and reduce wiring errors.
Use cases and scenarios where the Impaq SC excels
- Domestic security:Ideal for front and back doors, patio doors and easily accessible windows where a compact combined sensor provides both contact and tamper/vibration detection.
- Retail and hospitality:Protect display windows, stockroom doors and service shutters that are vulnerable to smash‑and‑grab or prying attacks. The VIBER™ accelerometer helps detect subsurface attacks often used by thieves to defeat standard contacts.
- Roller shutters and metal doors:The magnet can be mounted on either side, and the shock functionality detects attacks against heavier metal substrates that traditional magnetic contacts may not sense until the door is forced open.
- Heritage or sensitive properties:In locations where recessing hardware is limited, the compact sensor reduces visual impact while offering Grade‑2 detection performance.
- Trade & pro‑DIY installations:Contractors benefit from simplified wiring and tuning; competent DIYers following panel manufacturer guidance can use it where permitted by local regulations.
Comparisons with similar products
When considering perimeter sensors, buyers typically compare combined sensors like the Impaq SC with separate shock sensors, standalone magnetic contacts and wireless combined devices. Here are the key differences to help choose the right approach:
- Wiring complexity:One combined unit reduces the number of devices and wire runs versus two separate devices, cutting installation time and potential failure points.
- Mounting constraints:A single compact footprint is easier to position on narrow frames than two separate sensors.
- Cost:While unit price varies by model, the combined approach often delivers lower total installed cost (device + labour) than separate shock and contact units.
- Reliability and latency:Wired sensors like the Impaq SC offer continuous power and supervised connections, delivering predictable performance and lower false‑negative risk compared to battery‑powered wireless units that may suffer from low battery or RF interference.
- Maintenance:Wired units require no battery swaps; wireless devices need periodic battery checks and replacement.
- Flexibility:Wireless devices offer easier retrofits in locations without conduit or accessible wiring, but at the cost of ongoing battery maintenance and potential RF limitations.
- Appropriate applications:Grade 2 devices such as the Impaq SC are suitable for most residential and light commercial needs. Grade 3 devices are specified for higher‑risk premises where advanced attack techniques are anticipated.
- Cost and complexity:Grade 3 systems often require more expensive components and more stringent installation practices. For many sites, Grade 2 provides a balance of performance and cost.
Customer feedback and installer perspectives
There are no official, attributed customer testimonials included with the product data provided. However, based on common feedback patterns for combined wired sensors with equivalent features, installers and end users typically report the following practical observations:
- Installers appreciate the built‑in EOL resistors and LED‑assisted sensitivity setup because they reduce commissioning time and wiring errors.
- Where the sensor is tuned correctly, owners observe fewer nuisance alarms compared with basic vibration sensors, owing to the DSP and multi‑level sensitivity controls.
- In retrofit scenarios on narrow frames, technicians value the compact dimensions and multiple finish options because the device sits discreetly and matches frame colours.
If you require verified customer reviews, check trade forums, installer networks or the vendor's product listing where user comments and case studies may be published.
Installation, compliance and practical notes
- Installation guidance:The sensor should be installed per the alarm panel and manufacturer instructions. Power should be isolated during wiring, and EOL resistor configuration verified to ensure supervised inputs function correctly.
- Sensitivity tuning:Use the LED‑assisted setup to select one of five sensitivity levels based on the mounting surface. Test under realistic conditions (slams, minor impacts, environmental vibrations) to avoid nuisance alarms.
- Regulatory notes:Certified to EN50131‑2‑8:2017 and related standards for Grade 2 indoor perimeter use. For UKCA/CE marking and full regulatory compliance, consult the manufacturer datasheet and your panel documentation.
Conclusion: Why the Impaq SC AEK-0003 is a strong choice
The Impaq SC (AEK‑0003) is a practical, well‑engineered choice for anyone looking to implement Grade‑2 perimeter detection with minimal fuss. Its combined shock and magnetic contact capability streamlines installations, while the 3‑axis accelerometer, DSP and five sensitivity levels provide a solid balance of sensitivity and false‑alarm immunity. Built‑in EOL resistors and compact dimensions further reduce installation time and visual impact. For most residential and light‑commercial applications — doors, windows, roller shutters and similar access points — the Impaq SC offers a cost‑effective, reliable solution. With an operating range of 9–16 V DC, modest current draw and EN50131 Grade 2 certification, it fits cleanly into standard wired alarm systems where supervised, always‑powered detection is preferred over battery‑dependent wireless alternatives.
For procurement, the suggested retail price is typically around 27.99 (cost price data available) — a competitive price point when factoring in the combined functionality and reduced installation time. If you need higher protection levels (Grade 3) or a fully wireless solution, consider those alternatives; otherwise, the Impaq SC represents a balanced, installer‑friendly choice for robust perimeter security.
