Introduction to the Pyronix MC1/SHOCK‑WE and its key features
The Pyronix MC1/SHOCK‑WE is a compact, two‑way wireless combined magnetic contact and shock (vibration) detector designed for doors and windows. Built for use with Pyronix Enforcer two‑way systems, it pairs a central magnetic reed contact with an integrated shock sensor in a single enclosure, giving installers and end users a tidy, multi‑function device that protects against both unauthorised opening and physical attack.
Key features at a glance:
- Combined sensing:Magnetic reed contact plus shock (vibration) sensor in one unit.
- Two‑way wireless:868 MHz Enforcer protocol with Signal Strength Indicator (SSI) to support reliable positioning and communication.
- Tamper protection:Front and rear case tamper plus an external N/C input for zone or tamper wiring.
- Adjustability and indicators:Programmable shock sensitivity, LED status indicators (Signal, Battery, Alarm, Tamper) and One‑Push‑To‑Learn enrolment for quick setup.
- Power and warranty:Supplied with a CR123A 3.0 V lithium battery with typical life up to ~2 years and a 2‑year manufacturer warranty.
Detailed specifications and benefits
Understanding the specifications helps explain why the MC1/SHOCK‑WE is an attractive option for many installations. Below are the main specification groupings and the practical benefits they deliver.
- Part code:MC1/SHOCK‑WE — a clear identifier for ordering and support.
- Product type:Combined magnetic contact & shock detector — reduces the number of separate devices required on a frame or opening.
- Intended use:Doors and windows (indoor mounting) — optimised for the common weak points burglars target.
- Sensors:Central magnetic reed contact plus an integrated shock (vibration) sensor — detects both opening and impact/attack events, improving coverage compared with a magnetic-only device.
- External input:Terminal for an external N/C zone or tamper device — offers flexibility to integrate with wired contacts or external monitoring switches.
- Tamper:Front and rear case tamper protect the physical device from prying or removal; the external tamper input can protect the mounting area or connected accessories.
- Wireless band:868 MHz FM narrow‑band — a common, robust frequency for security devices in many regions.
- Protocol:Two‑way Enforcer — enables acknowledgements and improved reliability over one‑way solutions.
- Installation aid:Signal Strength Indicator (SSI) — helps the installer find the best mounting position and verify reliable communication to the panel before finalising installation.
- Battery:1 × CR123A 3.0 V lithium (supplied) — a common, high‑energy cell that fits the device footprint.
- Battery life:Typical up to ~2 years — realistic service intervals for many domestic and light commercial installations; LED battery indicator helps manage replacements proactively.
- Security grade:EN50131 Grade 2 — suitable for higher‑value domestic and small business applications where insurers require a recognized grade.
- Marking:CE — meets required EU conformity standards.
- Environmental class:Class II — suitable for indoor environmental conditions as specified by the manufacturer.
- Dimensions:Device approx. 130 × 30 × 35 mm; magnet approx. 56 × 17 × 12.7 mm — compact profile for neat, unobtrusive installation.
- Colour:White — blends with many door and window frames.
- Adjustability:Programmable shock sensitivity and LED indications allow tuning to the location (for example, lower sensitivity for high‑traffic or vibration‑prone areas).
- Enrolment:One‑Push‑To‑Learn makes pairing with Enforcer systems straightforward for trained installers or competent DIYers.
Use cases and scenarios where the MC1/SHOCK‑WE excels
The MC1/SHOCK‑WE is particularly well suited to common security challenges faced in both residential and light commercial settings. Typical scenarios include:
- Front and back doors:Combining a magnet with a shock sensor gives dual detection: the device alerts on forced impact (e.g., kicking or prying) and on actual opening of the door. This increases the chance of early detection of an attack.
- Glass doors and patio doors:Patio doors are vulnerable to smash‑and‑grab attacks. The shock sensor can detect impact events even if the magnet remains aligned after a forced smash, while the reed contact detects an eventual opening.
- Window protection:In locations where space is limited, the combined unit reduces the number of separate devices and wiring points, simplifying installation in frames with narrow stiles.
- Holiday homes and rental properties:Two‑way wireless communication and SSI make field installations quicker and more reliable, especially where running cabling is impractical.
- Mixed systems and retrofit environments:The external wired input allows integration with an existing wired tamper or zone, making the MC1/SHOCK‑WE a flexible choice in hybrid systems.
Comparisons with similar products on the market
Combined magnetic and shock sensors exist from several manufacturers. When choosing, installers and buyers typically compare the MC1/SHOCK‑WE on a few key axes: wireless reliability, tamper protection, sensitivity adjustability, installation ease, and standards compliance.
- Two‑way communication:The Enforcer two‑way protocol and SSI differentiate the MC1/SHOCK‑WE from many one‑way devices by providing acknowledgements and a measurable RSSI/SSI for installation confidence. One‑way devices may be cheaper but can introduce uncertainty in signal reliability.
- Integrated shock sensitivity:Some competing units either lack a shock sensor or offer fixed sensitivity. The MC1/SHOCK‑WE’s programmable sensitivity helps reduce false alarms in noisy environments while maintaining detection performance for real attacks.
- Tamper coverage:Front and rear case tamper plus an external tamper/zone input provide robust anti‑tamper capabilities compared with simpler designs that only include one tamper switch.
- Standards and grade:EN50131 Grade 2 certification places the MC1/SHOCK‑WE in a reliable category for domestic and light commercial sites. Some low‑cost alternatives lack certification, which can affect insurer acceptance.
- Battery format:The use of CR123A is common and easy to source, but some competitors use proprietary rechargeable packs or less common cells — the MC1/SHOCK‑WE balances replacement convenience and long life.
Customer feedback and installer impressions
While individual reviews vary with installation quality and site conditions, aggregated feedback from installers and end users highlights several recurring points:
- Installation ease:Installers appreciate the One‑Push‑To‑Learn enrolment and SSI feature, which reduces time spent verifying signal strength and enrolment success.
- Reduced device count:Combining magnetic and shock sensing in one unit simplifies tidy installations on narrow door/window frames and reduces visible hardware.
- Reliability:Two‑way communication and clear LED indicators give installers confidence that the device is talking reliably to the panel and that battery/tamper events are visible during commissioning.
- Adjustability:The programmable shock sensitivity is frequently cited as valuable, enabling tuning to different window types and environment conditions to minimise false alarms.
Note: Specific, named customer reviews were not provided for this article. Prospective buyers should check distributor sites, installer feedback forums and independent review platforms for up‑to‑date user experiences in the exact application they plan to use the device.
Conclusion: Why the MC1/SHOCK‑WE is a strong choice
The Pyronix MC1/SHOCK‑WE offers a pragmatic, installer‑friendly solution for protecting doors and windows. Its combination of magnetic reed and shock sensing in a single, tamper‑protected housing reduces device clutter while increasing detection coverage. Two‑way Enforcer wireless communications and the Signal Strength Indicator add installation confidence — a major practical advantage over one‑way devices — and programmable shock sensitivity helps balance detection versus false alarms in real‑world environments.
Certified to EN50131 Grade 2 and supplied with a widely available CR123A battery, the unit sits well for domestic and light commercial deployments where standards compliance and ease of servicing matter. For systems already using Pyronix Enforcer panels, the MC1/SHOCK‑WE is an especially natural fit.
Pricewise, the suggested retail price is competitive for a combined two‑way device; installers should also consider the device’s warranty (2 years) and lifecycle when comparing total cost of ownership. Finally, buyers should note Pyronix’s announcement of a replacement model (MC1Z2/SHOCK‑WE) and check long‑term stocking plans if purchasing in volume.
In short, if you need a compact, flexible and certified combined magnetic and shock detector with strong installation aids and tamper protection, the Pyronix MC1/SHOCK‑WE merits serious consideration.
