Introduction: Micro Shock‑W Wireless Shock Sensor and its key features
The Micro Shock‑W (GHC‑0002) is an ultra‑miniature wireless shock sensor purpose‑built for discreet perimeter protection of windows, glazed doors, conservatories and vulnerable panels. Combining a high‑performance digital accelerometer with Texecom Ricochet mesh wireless technology, this compact sensor delivers fast, reliable impact detection while remaining visually unobtrusive. Key features include selectable sensitivity across five digital settings, Ricochet mesh repeater capability for robust wireless coverage, EN50131 Grade 2 compliance, and a long‑life CR2450 coin cell that typically powers the device for around three years.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The Micro Shock‑W is engineered to balance compact form factor, reliable shock detection and straightforward installation. At just 57 × 27.5 × 8.2 mm and weighing approximately 15 g, it can be mounted discreetly on frames or surfaces without detracting from the aesthetics of windows and doors. The combination of mechanical design and digital processing means the unit can detect a broad range of forcible impacts while rejecting benign vibrations that commonly cause false alarms.
- Model / Product code:Micro Shock‑W (GHC‑0002)
- Size & weight:57 × 27.5 × 8.2 mm; ≈15 g
- Power:CR2450 coin cell (supplied); operating voltage 3 V; typical battery life ≈3 years
- RF & protocol:Ricochet mesh (868.2–868.4 MHz), max RF power 10 mW, transmitter duty cycle <1%
- Performance:Digital accelerometer with five selectable sensitivity settings
- Standards & compliance:EN50131‑2‑8, EN50131‑5‑3, EN50131‑1, PD6662 — Grade 2 Class II
- Environmental:Operating temperature −10 °C to +55 °C; 0–95% relative humidity non‑condensing
Ricochet mesh wireless: Ricochet is a purpose‑built security mesh protocol that allows devices to act as repeaters. For installers and end users that means improved coverage, increased reliability and better resilience in challenging RF environments (for example, properties with thick walls or multiple floors). The encrypted communications add a layer of security to radio transmissions.
Superior accelerometer & selectable sensitivity: The Micro Shock‑W uses a digital accelerometer and onboard algorithms to analyse shock signatures. Five digital sensitivity settings let installers tune the sensor for its mounting location: higher sensitivity for delicate glazing or vulnerable panels, lower sensitivity for frames exposed to routine knocks or environmental vibration. Fine tuning reduces false alarms while ensuring real threats are detected early.
Compact design & discreet installation: Because of its very small footprint and low weight, the sensor can be positioned in locations that are both effective and unobtrusive. Discreet mounting is important not only for appearance but also to reduce tampering and maintain the visual integrity of doors and windows.
Battery life & low power draw: Supplied with a CR2450 coin cell, the Micro Shock‑W is designed for low quiescent current (≈14 µA), resulting in a typical three‑year battery life under normal use. This translates to low maintenance for homeowners and facility managers. LED‑assisted setup and single‑button commissioning streamline installation and commissioning.
Use cases and scenarios where Micro Shock‑W excels
The Micro Shock‑W is particularly effective in installations that require early detection of forced entry but where space, appearance or concealment are important. Typical use cases include:
- Domestic windows and glazed doors:Mounted on frames or sash, the sensor detects forcible impacts before glass breakage or entry occurs, allowing alarms and interventions sooner.
- Conservatories and patio doors:These glazed structures are frequently targeted; a compact shock sensor provides a non‑invasive protective layer.
- Retail display windows and kiosks:Small devices that are easy to conceal can protect merchandise by detecting smash‑and‑grab attempts at an early stage.
- Secondary or vulnerable panels:Internal partitions, false walls or service panels that require discreet monitoring.
- Supplementary protection in hybrid systems:Use alongside glass‑break detectors and contact sensors to create layered detection and decrease the chance of a successful breach.
Installers should select the appropriate sensitivity setting for each mounting location to reduce false alarms caused by normal building movement, heavy doors or frequent knocks. Positioning should follow Texecom recommendations: surface mount on the frame or structure where impact vibrations transmit reliably to the accelerometer. Take advantage of Ricochet repeater capability when planning device placement to ensure solid radio links back to the control panel.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When evaluating shock sensors, buyers typically compare size, detection quality, protocol reliability and standards compliance. The Micro Shock‑W distinguishes itself in several areas:
- Size and discretion:Its ultra‑compact dimensions make it smaller than many traditional shock sensors, ideal where discrete installation is required.
- Protocol advantage:Ricochet mesh offers self‑healing and repeater capabilities that are a clear advantage over simpler point‑to‑panel wireless devices and many proprietary short‑range radios. In complex layouts, mesh networks often provide more reliable coverage.
- Standards & grade:EN50131 Grade 2 certification positions the Micro Shock‑W well for domestic and small commercial use where grade compliance is required or recommended.
- Adjustable sensitivity:Five digital settings provide more granular tuning than basic on/off or coarse adjustment sensors, reducing false alarms while maintaining responsiveness.
How it compares to alternatives: wired shock sensors can offer higher immunity to RF issues and may run from the system bus instead of batteries, but they require cable routing and are less discreet. Other wireless shock sensors from different vendors may match or exceed in battery life or offer different mesh protocols (or proprietary RF solutions). Selecting the right product depends on the installers ecosystem, panel compatibility and priorities (discretion, mesh reliability, standards). For sites already using Texecom Premier Elite panels and Ricochet devices, the Micro Shock‑W integrates seamlessly.
Customer feedback and typical reviews
There are no specific named customer testimonials included here, but common feedback themes from installers and end users evaluating this class of device typically include the following observations:
- Ease of installation:Installers appreciate the LED‑assisted setup and single button commissioning, especially on retrofit jobs where access is restricted.
- Discreet appearance:Homeowners value the small footprint and the ability to mount the sensor out of sight.
- Reliable detection:Where correctly tuned, users report the sensor provides timely detection of forcible impacts without an excessive number of false alarms.
- Battery life:The typical three‑year battery life is seen as acceptable for a wireless device of this size, reducing maintenance intervals.
Installers sometimes note the importance of careful sensitivity selection and thoughtful placement to avoid nuisance alarms from heavy footfall or nearby machinery. Overall, comments are most positive when the device is used as part of a layered protection strategy and integrated into a Ricochet enabled system.
Conclusion: Why the Micro Shock‑W is a great choice
The Micro Shock‑W (GHC‑0002) is a compelling option for projects that demand discreet, standards‑compliant impact detection with the flexibility and coverage benefits of a Ricochet mesh wireless system. Its ultra‑miniature form, selectable sensitivity, EN50131 Grade 2 compliance and long battery life make it especially suited to protecting windows, glazed doors and other vulnerable panels where appearance and concealment matter.
For installers working within Texecom installations or for customers seeking a small, reliable wireless shock detector, the Micro Shock‑W offers a strong balance of size, performance and integration. While wired alternatives remain relevant in certain situations, the Micro Shock‑W stands out where non‑invasive installation, mesh reliability and a reputable certification profile are priorities.
In short: if you need discreet, early detection of forced entry on glazing and lightweight panels — and you want a device that fits into a robust wireless security ecosystem — the Micro Shock‑W is an excellent, practical choice.