Introduction to the Texecom Capture A20 AKE-0001 and its key features
Texecom Capture A20 (AKE-0001)is a professional wired dual-technology volumetric motion detector designed for higher-security intruder alarm installations. Combining a quad-element passive infrared (PIR) sensor with a K-band Doppler microwave and active infrared anti-masking, the A20 offers reliable detection across a 20 m range and an 85° volumetric coverage. Certified to EN50131-2-4 and PD6662:2017 Grade 3 standards, it is aimed at installers and systems integrators who require robust performance, low false alarms and anti-tamper protection for demanding sites.
Detailed description of specifications and benefits
- Model / Part code:A20 / AKE-0001
- Type:Wired dual-technology volumetric detector
- Detection range:20 m
- Coverage:85° volumetric
- PIR:Quad-element PIR for improved pattern recognition
- Microwave:K-band Doppler microwave
- Detection modes:Low Sensitivity (LW), CloakWise (CW), Dual Tech (DT)
- Anti-masking:Active IR anti-masking to detect attempts to obscure the lens
- LED:Tri-colour status/alarm LED
- Mounting:Wall mount; recommended height 1.5 3.0 m
- Operating voltage:Approx. 9 3 15 V DC
- Physical size:64 7 112 7 40 mm
- Compliance:EN50131-2-4; PD6662:2017 Grade 3
The combination of quad-element PIR and K-band microwave gives the A20 the benefits of both sensing principles. The PIR provides reliable detection of heat and movement with reduced sensitivity to environmental noise, while the microwave component helps maintain detection in challenging conditions (for example, if the PIR view is partially obscured). Running the two together in a dual-tech mode means the detector typically only alarms when both sensors register an intrusion, significantly reducing nuisance alarms caused by pets, drafts, or rapid temperature changes.
Active IR anti-masking is a crucial feature for Grade 3 detectors. Masking—covering or obscuring the sensor to defeat it—is a known bypass method for intruder systems. The A20 monitors for objects placed over the lens and will signal an anti-mask tamper before a potential intruder can exploit the detector. Tri-colour LED indicators provide clear visual status for commissioning, fault finding and alarm signalling during installation and maintenance.
Installation considerations and practical benefits
- Professional fitment:The A20 is a wired detector targeted at professional installers. Proper siting (1.5 3.0 m wall height) and wiring ensure optimal coverage and compliance with Grade 3 requirements.
- Flexible modes:Selectable detection modes (Low Sensitivity, CloakWise, Dual-Tech) give installers flexibility to tune performance to the environment, balancing sensitivity and false alarm immunity.
- Durability and standards:Compliance with EN50131 and PD6662:2017 means the A20 meets defined performance and environmental standards expected in commercial and higher-risk domestic applications.
Use cases and scenarios where the Capture A20 excels
The Texecom Capture A20 is well suited to sites that demand high reliability, anti-tamper features and low false alarm rates. Typical applications include:
- Commercial premises:Retail units, offices, banks and warehouses where Grade 3 detection is required by insurers or risk assessments.
- High-value residential installations:Homes with high-value assets or those requiring additional deterrent and detection features beyond standard residential installations.
- Critical infrastructure:Telecom hubs, distribution centres, and utility facilities where masking and tampering attempts are a genuine threat.
- Perimeter and internal protection:Large internal open areas such as showrooms, atria, or corridors where 20 m range and 85° coverage reduce the number of devices required.
- Environments with nuisance-alarm risks:Areas prone to temperature fluctuations, moving curtains or plant where the dual-tech configuration helps filter environmental triggers.
In all these scenarios, the A20s anti-mask capability provides an additional security layer, alerting operators to attempted defeat methods before an intrusion occurs. Installers can fine-tune sensitivity modes to match occupancy patterns and local conditions for optimal performance.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
When evaluating motion detectors, buyers typically compare single-technology PIR devices, microwave-only units, and dual-technology detectors like the A20. Heres how the Capture A20 stacks up in broad terms:
- Vs PIR-only detectors:PIR-only devices are cost-effective and work well in controlled indoor environments, but they are more prone to false alarms from environmental changes. The A20s dual-tech approach reduces false alarms significantly and adds microwave detection to maintain coverage where PIR alone might struggle.
- Vs microwave-only detectors:Microwave-only detectors can be sensitive to movement through walls and environmental motion, sometimes causing nuisance alarms. The A20 requires corroboration from both PIR and microwave (when in dual-tech mode), offering more reliable alarm decisions.
- Vs other dual-tech detectors:Many dual-tech detectors share similar core benefits. The Texecom A20s strengths include quad-element PIR for enhanced pattern discrimination, selectable modes (including CloakWise), active IR anti-masking and Grade 3 compliance—features that position it strongly for professional installations.
- Vs wireless alternatives:Wireless detectors offer flexibility and faster deployment but rely on batteries and radio links. The A20s wired design removes battery life concerns and reduces radio interference risks, making it preferable for permanent, critical installations where reliability is paramount.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
While specific user reviews vary by site, common themes reported by professional installers and security managers include:
- Reliable detection:Installers praise the stable performance of the dual-tech sensing in challenging indoor environments, noting fewer false alarms compared with PIR-only devices.
- Anti-masking confidence:The active IR anti-mask feature is frequently highlighted as a decisive reason to specify the A20 for higher-risk applications where masking is a concern.
- Ease of commissioning:The tri-colour LED and configurable modes help installers tune the device quickly during setup.
Example installer comment (paraphrased): "On sites where clients insist on Grade 3 protection, the A20 gives us dependable coverage and anti-masking without the fiddly adjustments that some other high-end detectors need."
Conclusion: why the Texecom Capture A20 is a strong choice
The Texecom Capture A20 AKE-0001 dual-tech motion detector is a compelling option for professional intruder alarm installations that require robust detection, low nuisance alarms and anti-mask protection. Its 20 m range and 85° volumetric coverage make it suitable for large internal areas, and the combination of quad-element PIR, K-band microwave and active IR anti-masking meets the needs of environments where tampering is a realistic threat.
Certified to EN50131-2-4 and PD6662:2017 Grade 3 standards, the A20 is well placed for commercial, high-value residential and critical infrastructure projects. While wired installation requires professional fitment, the advantages in reliability, maintainability and compliance make it a practical choice for systems where performance and security cannot be compromised.
For installers specifying detectors for Grade 3 projects, the Capture A20 balances sensitivity, false alarm suppression and anti-tamper protection in a compact, professionally focused package. Consult the official datasheet and installation manual for detailed siting diagrams, wiring instructions and configuration guidance to achieve the best results on each site.
