Introduction to the MC1Z1-WE Slim Two‑Way Wireless Magnetic Contact
MC1Z1-WE Slim Two‑Way Wireless Magnetic Contact with External Inputsis a compact, surface‑mounted door and window sensor designed for modern intruder alarm systems. Built for installers and end users who need a reliable, flexible contact, the MC1Z1-WE combines two‑way 868 MHz wireless communications, 128‑bit encryption, and useful installation aids such as a Signal Strength Indicator (SSI) and One‑Push‑to‑Learn enrolment. It can function as a standard magnetic contact or as a universal transmitter/interface for third‑party volt‑free devices, making it a versatile choice for both domestic and light commercial security projects.
Key features at a glance
- Two‑way 868 MHz narrow‑band RF communications with 128‑bit encryption and jamming detection.
- External volt‑free zone input and external tamper input for wired device integration.
- Slim, surface‑mounted design with central reed to reduce magnet mis‑alignment risk.
- Signal Strength Indicator (SSI) for quicker, more reliable placement during installation.
- One‑Push‑to‑Learn for fast enrolment with compatible control panels.
- Long open‑space RF range — up to 300 m — suitable for larger properties and difficult installations.
- Security Grade 2 compliance: EN50131‑1, EN50131‑2‑6, EN50130‑5 and PD6662 among standards met.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the MC1Z1-WE’s technical specifications clarifies why it is well suited to many installations. Below are the most relevant details and the benefits they deliver.
- Dimensions (main): 125 × 25.5 × 28 mm; magnet: 125 × 15 × 16 mm — a slim profile that sits unobtrusively on modern frames and doors.
- Weight: Main 65 g; Magnet 30 g — lightweight for straightforward surface mounting without heavy fixings.
- Casing: 2.5 mm ABS in white (also available in brown or anthracite) — durable, tamper‑resistant plastic suitable for visible installations.
Benefit: The compact footprint and discrete colour options make the MC1Z1-WE suitable for both aesthetic and practical installations on windows, doors and service panels.
- Battery: 3.0 V CR123A lithium cell.
- Battery life: Approx. 2 years under typical usage.
- Low battery threshold: 2.5 V ±5% @ 25 °C — the device will report low battery to the panel, helping to avoid unexpected failures.
Benefit: Long battery life and low‑battery reporting reduce maintenance visits and ensure continuous protection between scheduled service calls.
- Frequency: 868 MHz narrow‑band.
- RF range: Up to 300 m (open space); real‑world range varies with building materials and site layout.
- Encryption: 128‑bit, rolling code with jamming detection — two‑way communications increase reliability and security.
Benefit: The long RF range and two‑way encrypted link make the MC1Z1-WE suitable for larger properties or sites where the control panel is not in the immediate vicinity of each protected opening. Jamming detection adds a layer of anti‑tamper security to help protect against RF interference.
- External zone input & external tamper input (volt‑free) — enabling integration of third‑party devices such as water‑leak sensors, panic buttons, or roller‑shutter contacts.
- Passive closed contact tamper switch — helps detect attempts to remove the sensor.
- One‑Push‑to‑Learn — speeds up enrolment with compatible control panels.
Benefit: The external inputs greatly expand the utility of the device beyond a simple reed contact. Installers can use the MC1Z1-WE as a wireless bridge for wired sensors, saving on wiring labor and enabling retrofit upgrades to wireless systems.
Use cases and scenarios where the MC1Z1-WE excels
The MC1Z1-WE is particularly well suited to scenarios where space is limited, wiring is impractical, or mixed sensor ecosystems need to be unified on a wireless control panel. Notable use cases include:
- Older homes often have plaster walls and multiple rooms where running new cabling is disruptive. The slim, surface‑mounted MC1Z1-WE can be installed quickly on doors and windows without chasing walls.
- External inputs allow existing wired sensors (e.g., a basement water sensor) to be integrated into the wireless alarm without full rewiring.
- Small shops, offices and apartment common areas benefit from Grade 2 compliant sensors that provide strong security without the cost of fully wired systems.
- Long RF range suits buildings where the control panel is in a central plant room or security office away from perimeter doors.
- Roller shutters, gates, and non‑standard entry points can be monitored by wiring their existing contact to the MC1Z1‑WE’s volt‑free input, turning a wired device into a wireless zone.
- Panic buttons or water‑leak contacts can be added to a system without needing separate wireless modules.
Comparisons with similar products in the market
When comparing the MC1Z1‑WE to other wireless magnetic contacts, consider three main dimensions: security grade and encryption, integration flexibility, and installer‑friendly features.
- Many entry‑level wireless contacts offer one‑way RF or reduced encryption; the MC1Z1‑WE’s two‑way 128‑bit encrypted link with jamming detection places it above basic consumer devices in terms of tamper resistance and reliability.
- Not all magnetic contacts provide external volt‑free inputs. Where integration of third‑party wired sensors is required, the MC1Z1‑WE’s external zone and tamper inputs are a clear advantage — fewer separate transmitters or wiring runs are needed.
- Features such as SSI and One‑Push‑to‑Learn speed up installation and reduce call‑backs. Some competing devices may lack a signal strength indicator, making initial placement and site surveys more time‑consuming.
Overall, the MC1Z1‑WE sits in the mid‑to‑upper segment of two‑way wireless contacts — offering stronger security and integration options than many entry‑level sensors while remaining compact and cost‑effective compared with fully wired or premium concealment contacts.
Customer feedback and installer observations
While individual experiences vary by site, common points raised by installers and end users in aggregated feedback include:
- Reliable RF performance in most domestic and small commercial sites, with the SSI feature particularly helpful to confirm placement during installation.
- Ease of integration for retrofits — installers appreciate the volt‑free inputs as a way to convert wired contacts or add auxiliary sensors without extra wireless modules.
- Battery life meeting expectations (around two years in typical use). Clear low‑battery reporting reduces surprise service visits.
- Positive feedback on the slim design and unobtrusive appearance, especially in residential settings where aesthetics matter.
Note: As with any RF device, performance depends on site specifics such as building materials, metal doors, and interference. Field testing using the device’s SSI before final fixing is recommended to ensure robust communications.
Conclusion: Why the MC1Z1‑WE is a strong choice
The MC1Z1‑WE Slim Two‑Way Wireless Magnetic Contact with External Inputs is a practical, security‑focused solution for protecting doors, windows and integrating third‑party volt‑free devices into wireless alarm systems. Its combination of two‑way encrypted communications, useful installer features (SSI and One‑Push‑to‑Learn), and external inputs make it a versatile tool for both new installations and retrofits.
For installers, the MC1Z1‑WE reduces installation time and complexity when wiring is difficult, and for end users it offers peace of mind through Grade 2 compliance and strong RF security. With an open‑space RF range up to 300 m and a typical battery life of around two years, it balances performance and maintenance demands effectively. Whether you need a slim, discrete contact for domestic windows and doors or a flexible interface for hybrid sensor setups, the MC1Z1‑WE is a compelling, cost‑effective option.
- Product: MC1Z1‑WE Slim Two‑Way Wireless Magnetic Contact
- Type: Intruder alarm sensor — slim magnetic contact with external I/O
- Key benefits: Two‑way encrypted RF, external volt‑free inputs, SSI, One‑Push‑to‑Learn, Grade 2 compliant
- Suggested price: 49.99
