Introduction to the Optex REDWALL SIP-404 and its key features
The Optex REDWALL SIP-404 (marketed as the Optex REDWALL 40×4m Dual‑Zone PIR) is a purpose-built outdoor perimeter passive-infrared (PIR) detector designed for professional security and CCTV integrations. Positioned as a mid-range option in Optexs REDWALL family, the SIP-404 combines robust environmental protection, vandal-resistant construction and intelligent sensing technology to reliably detect intrusions along fences, driveways and building approaches. Key features include two independent detection zones (near and far), active infrared anti-masking, anti-rotation tamper detection and an intelligent auto-sensitivity algorithm that adapts to ambient temperature and light to reduce false alarms.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
The SIP-404 is engineered for consistency and low false-alarm rates in challenging outdoor environments. Below are the most important technical specifications and the practical benefits they deliver.
- Detection method:Passive infrared (PIR)
- Detection coverage:40 × 4 m (approx. 130 × 13 ft)
- Detection zones:Two independent zones (near & far) with separate sensitivity selectors
- Sensitivity selectors:Far: SH/H/M/L, Near: SH/H/M/L (separate tuning)
- Mounting height:2.3–4.0 m
- Power (wired variants):11–26 VDC or 22–26 VAC (variant dependent)
- Current draw (typical):≈35–45 mA (12 VDC) / ≈70–85 mA (24 VDC); higher when optional heater is used
- Alarm output:N.O./N.C. typical, up to ~28 VDC, 0.2 A (model dependent)
- Alarm period/warm-up:Alarm ~2 s; warm-up ≈60 s
- Operating temperature:−25 to +60 °C (some variants offer −40 to +60 °C with a heater option)
- IP rating:Main unit IP65 (frame/chassis may be quoted IP55)
- Anti-tamper features:Active IR anti-masking and a 3-axis accelerometer for anti-rotation detection
- Variants:Wired SIP-404, SIP-404/5 (creep zone), SIP-404-IP (PoE/IP), SIP-404WF (wireless)
- Dual-zone detection for flexible alarm logic:The independent near and far zones let installers tune the detector to trigger different actions (for example, camera presets on far zone, immediate siren or lights on near zone) or to create layered detection for fewer false positives.
- Reduced false alarms:The built-in auto-sensitivity algorithm adjusts detection thresholds based on ambient temperature and light, helping maintain performance across hot summer days, cold nights and variable weather.
- Anti-masking & anti-tamper:Active IR anti-masking detects attempts to block the sensor (spray, tape or covers) while the accelerometer detects rotation or vandalism, both triggering tamper outputs or alerts to the monitoring system.
- Weather and vandal resistance:Hardened polycarbonate housing and an IP65 main unit rating mean the SIP-404 is suitable for exposed perimeter mounting where dust and water ingress are concerns.
- Flexible integration:Multiple variants (wired, PoE/IP, wireless) let organizations select the deployment method that best fits existing CCTV/alarm architectures.
Use cases and scenarios where the SIP-404 excels
The SIP-404 is designed for perimeter and approach detection in commercial, industrial and critical infrastructure settings. Typical situations where it excels include:
- Mounted along fence lines, the SIP-404 can detect crossing or approaching intruders across a consistent 40 × 4 m curtain, offering early warning and enabling cameras to respond with presets or recordings.
- Dual-zone logic enables graduated responses: far zone detection can cue cameras or alert a monitoring station, while near zone detections can trigger audible deterrence or lights.
- For commercial facilities, large estates or gated properties, the SIP-404 can detect vehicles and pedestrians approaching gates or buildings and initiate gate control, lighting, or camera tracking.
- When connected to CCTV systems, the SIP-404s independent outputs are useful for camera pre-set triggers and prioritized recording without relying solely on video analytics.
- PoE/IP and wireless variants provide options for installations where pulling traditional alarm wiring is costly or impractical.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
Outdoors PIR detectors are a common component of perimeter security, and the SIP-404 competes in a field that includes offerings from established security manufacturers. When comparing the SIP-404 to other outdoor PIR devices, consider these points:
- Dual-zone capability:Not all outdoor PIRs provide independently selectable near and far zones. The SIP-404s dual-zone design is an advantage when you need differentiated responses or fewer nuisance alarms.
- Anti-masking and tamper detection:Active IR anti-masking and a 3-axis accelerometer are advanced anti-tamper features that exceed basic tamper-switch protection found on many budget models.
- Environmental resilience:The hardened polycarbonate housing and IP65 rating put the SIP-404 at parity with other professional outdoor detectors. Some competitors offer metal housings or higher IP ratings; selection should depend on site-specific vandalism and weather exposure risks.
- Smart sensitivity management:The SIP-404s auto-sensitivity algorithm (using ambient temperature and illuminance) helps in climates where static PIR thresholds lead to false alarms. Lower-end units without this intelligence tend to require more manual adjustment.
- Integration options:The availability of wired, PoE/IP and wireless variants gives the SIP-404 installation flexibility that matches higher-end competitors. Purely wired or purely wireless rivals may be less adaptable for mixed environments.
In short, the SIP-404 is positioned for installers who need reliable outdoor performance with flexible integration choices and anti-tamper measures — features commonly found in the mid to upper tiers of outdoor PIR detectors.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
Public consumer reviews for site-specific security products like the SIP-404 are often limited because installations are typically performed by professional integrators rather than retail customers. Nevertheless, installer and systems integrator feedback tends to highlight a few recurring themes:
- Reliability:Installers report the SIP-404 performs consistently across a range of conditions, with the auto-sensitivity function noticeably reducing the need for repeat visits to adjust settings.
- Vandal-resistant build:The robust housing and tamper detection are commonly cited as valuable for exposed perimeter locations.
- Flexibility:The availability of IP/PoE and wireless variants is appreciated when projects mix legacy alarm panels with modern networked CCTV systems.
If you are evaluating the SIP-404 for a project, ask your installer for references or case studies from similar deployments; professional installers can share anonymized examples of performance and false-alarm reduction in comparable environments.
Conclusion: Why the Optex REDWALL SIP-404 is a strong choice
The Optex REDWALL SIP-404 is a thoughtfully designed outdoor perimeter PIR detector that balances detection performance, anti-tamper protection and installation flexibility. Its dual-zone detection, intelligent auto-sensitivity, active anti-masking and hardy IP65-rated construction make it well suited to commercial perimeters, critical infrastructure sites and any outdoor application where false alarms, vandalism and environmental exposure are real concerns.
For integrators and end-users seeking a mid-range detector that integrates cleanly with CCTV workflows (camera preset triggers, prioritized recording) and alarm systems, the SIP-404 presents a compelling option. Its multiple variants (wired, IP/PoE, wireless) also make it a versatile choice across different project constraints. As always, proper siting, professional installation and adherence to datasheet wiring and regulatory guidance will maximize the devices effectiveness.
- Model:Optex REDWALL SIP-404 (Optex REDWALL 40×4m Dual‑Zone PIR)
- Recommended use:Perimeter and approach detection, CCTV trigger, professional installations
- Notable features:Dual-zone, anti-masking, anti-rotation tamper, auto-sensitivity, IP65
- Price indication:Suggested price around 281.00 (check local distributors and variant pricing)
For deployment, consult the official Optex datasheet for exact wiring diagrams, electrical ratings and variant-specific approvals (CE/UKCA) to ensure compliance with local regulations and to choose the correct model for your installation scenario.
