Texecom GHA-0001 Premier Elite Micro Contact‑W, Ricochet 868MHz White

Introduction: Meet the Texecom GHA-0001 Premier Elite Micro Contact‑W

Texecom GHA-0001 Premier Elite Micro Contact‑Wis an ultra‑compact wireless magnetic contact designed for discreet perimeter protection of doors, windows, drawers and other small openings. As a member of Texecom’s Premier Elite Ricochet family, the Micro Contact‑W combines a tiny physical footprint with encrypted Ricochet mesh wireless communications and device repeating to deliver extended range and resilient network behaviour. Priced competitively (suggested retail price 49.99; cost price 40.14), this white micro contact is aimed at installers and system integrators who need a concealable, standards‑compliant sensor for domestic and light commercial alarm systems.

Key features at a glance

• Ultra‑compact design for concealed installation inside uPVC and other frames.
• Ricochet mesh wireless technology with encrypted communications and repeating for improved range and redundancy.
• Single CR2450 coin cell (3 V) with a typical battery life of around 4 years under normal use.
• LED‑assisted setup and status indications: Green = secure, Red = open, Orange = tamper, Pink flash = learning.
• EN50131 Grade 2 compliant for many residential and light commercial intruder systems.
• Multiple fixing options: adhesive or screw; deep base/backplate available to improve RF in metal frames.

Detailed specifications and how they translate into benefits

The Micro Contact‑W packs a surprising set of capabilities into a small package. Below are the technical highlights and the practical benefits they deliver in the field.

• Frequency:868.2 68.4 MHz — a commonly used European ISM band that balances range and interference resistance.
• Max RF power:10 mW with a transmitter duty cycle of <1% at 868 MHz.
• Receiver:Category 1, Class 2; LBT (Listen Before Talk) — helps manage co‑existence with other devices on the band.
• Battery:Single CR2450 coin cell (3 V) with typical life ~4 years depending on usage and reporting frequency. Quiescent current is low (approx. 10 µA), with a maximum transmit current around 12 mA.

Benefit: low power draw and efficient RF behaviour prolong battery life and reduce maintenance visits. The Ricochet mesh capability means devices can repeat signals, so the effective wireless range in a real installation is often far better than a simple point‑to‑point sensor.

• Dimensions:57 × 27.5 × 8.2 mm (main unit) — small enough to be concealed inside most uPVC and timber frames.
• Weight:Approximately 25 g — very light and unobtrusive.
• Fixing:Adhesive or screw; optional deep base/backplate recommended for metal frames to help RF performance.
• Tamper:Tamper detection included with LED indication.

Benefit: the compact form factor supports discreet installations on modern frames and is especially useful in retrofit situations where a low profile is essential.

• Standards:EN50131‑2‑6, EN50131‑5‑3, EN50131‑1 and PD6662 — Grade 2, Class II.
• Operating temperature:6C to +55C; relative humidity 0 695% non‑condensing.
• IP rating:Insufficient data provided — suitable for typical internal perimeter use; avoid prolonged exposure to water or external elements unless additional protection is applied.

Benefit: meeting EN50131 Grade 2 means the device conforms to recognised requirements for domestic and light commercial installations, making it appropriate for many insurer and compliance scenarios.

Use cases and scenarios where the Micro Contact‑W excels

The Micro Contact‑W is particularly useful in several common installation situations:

• Concealed frame installations:Where a sensor must be hidden from view (e.g., modern uPVC windows, narrow frames, or bespoke joinery) the small footprint of the Micro Contact‑W is ideal.
• Retrofit upgrades:Upgrading wired systems or replacing bulky contacts without cosmetic changes — the adhesive fix or slim screw mounting makes retrofitting straightforward.
• Multi‑window or multi‑door properties:Ricochet mesh routing allows devices to repeat, improving signal reach across larger properties without needing additional dedicated repeaters.
• Properties with mixed frame materials:For metal frames use of the deep base/backplate reduces RF attenuation and ensures reliable communication to the panel.
• Drawer/locker protection:Small openings and furniture where a discreet contact is preferable to a larger sensor.

Its Grade 2 certification and secure encrypted communications make it suitable for many residential systems and smaller commercial sites that demand recognised standards compliance without the expense and complexity of higher‑grade systems.

How it compares with similar products on the market

When considering micro wireless contacts, buyers usually weigh size, battery life, wireless reliability and standards compliance. Here’s how the Texecom Micro Contact‑W stacks up against common alternatives:

• Vs larger surface contacts:Larger contacts are easier to install visibly and sometimes cheaper, but they are more noticeable and can be less suitable for high‑aesthetic requirements. The Micro Contact‑W’s concealed fit is an advantage for discreet protection.
• Vs wired micro contacts:Wired sensors remove battery dependency and potential RF issues, but wiring a property can be disruptive and costly. The Micro Contact‑W offers a non‑intrusive wireless option with mesh repeating to mitigate range concerns.
• Vs non‑mesh wireless contacts:Simple point‑to‑point wireless devices rely entirely on the link to the panel. Ricochet mesh devices like the Micro Contact‑W can benefit from neighbouring devices acting as repeaters, improving reliability in larger or RF‑challenging installations.
• Vs competing brands:Many manufacturers offer compact magnetic contacts, but Texecom’s reputation in the UK security market and the Ricochet mesh implementation provide a balance of professional installer features (LED setup feedback, deep base option, standards compliance) and real‑world reliability.

Installer feedback and customer impressions

There are no officially sourced customer testimonials included here, but typical installer feedback for devices like the Micro Contact‑W focuses on several recurring positives:

• "Very easy to conceal and great for modern uPVC frames." Installers appreciate the small size and inconspicuous appearance.
• "Ricochet mesh really helps coverage in larger homes." Installers note fewer site visits for coverage issues when mesh features are leveraged.
• "Setup LEDs make commissioning quicker." The multi‑colour LED assisting learning and status checks speeds up commissioning.
• "Battery life is reliable." A typical 4‑year battery life reduces maintenance frequency compared with higher‑drain sensors.

Prospective buyers should look for verified user reviews on retailer sites and installer forums for region‑specific feedback, but the combination of form factor, standards compliance and Ricochet mesh support is commonly cited as a strong practical advantage.

Practical installation and maintenance notes

• For metal frames, use the deep base/backplate to improve RF performance and always verify signal strength at the panel during commissioning.
• Observe polarity when fitting the CR2450 battery and avoid excessive force when closing the housing to prevent damage.
• Dispose of batteries according to local regulations; replace only with the specified CR2450 type.
• Ensure installation and commissioning are performed by a qualified installer following Texecom guidance and local regulations to maintain compliance and insurance acceptability.

Conclusion: Why choose the Texecom Micro Contact‑W?

The Texecom GHA-0001 Premier Elite Micro Contact‑W is a focused solution for anyone needing low‑profile, standards‑compliant perimeter protection. Its ultra‑compact dimensions make it ideal for concealed frame installation and retrofit work, while Ricochet mesh networking and encrypted communications provide a resilient wireless link suitable for many domestic and light commercial applications. Low power consumption and a long typical battery life reduce maintenance demands, and EN50131 Grade 2 certification supports insurer and regulatory expectations.

If you prioritise discreet appearance, professional installer features, and dependable wireless performance without the disruption of running new cables, the Micro Contact‑W is a compelling option. As always, confirm compatibility with your Texecom panel or integrator and follow best practice installation guidance to get the best results in the field.