Introduction: Meet the Texecom Premier Ricochet External PIR Detector
Texecom Premier Ricochet TD-W (GBW-0002) — Whiteis a purpose-built wireless external passive infrared (PIR) detector designed to protect property perimeters and outdoor areas. Combining Texecoms Ricochet mesh wireless technology with dual mirrored PIR optics, this detector delivers extended wireless range, resilient communications and improved false-alarm immunity. With selectable detection ranges up to 12 m, an IP65 weather rating and up to four years of typical battery life, the TD-W is aimed at installers and end users who need reliable, low-maintenance external sensing that integrates seamlessly with Texecom Premier and Premier Elite alarm panels.
Key features at a glance
- Ricochet mesh wireless technology for message relaying and extended range
- Dual, non-overlapping mirrored digital PIR optics for enhanced false-alarm resistance
- Selectable volumetric detection ranges: 12 m / 8 m / 5 m / 2 m with 90 coverage and 180 rotatable head
- IP65 weatherproof enclosure and conformal coating for reliable outdoor operation
- Wall and case tamper detection; powered by 2 x AA lithium cells (3 V)
- Compatible with Texecom Premier / Premier Elite panels and Ricochet expanders
Specifications and the benefits they deliver
The TD-W uses Texecoms Ricochet mesh technology operating in the 868.006 MHz band. Unlike single-hop wireless sensors, a mesh network lets messages relay via other Ricochet devices to reach the panel, increasing effective range and resilience to interference or single-link failures. For end users this means fewer blind spots, reduced need for repeaters and a more robust perimeter system that adapts to the site environment.
The detector employs dual, non-overlapping mirrored digital PIR optics (twin mirrored sensors) rather than a single element. This mirrored arrangement reduces the risk of false alarms caused by small domestic animals, vegetation movement or sudden environmental changes, because both optics must register a consistent event for an alarm to be validated. Combined with selectable day/night modes, installers can tune sensitivity and coverage to match each locations risk profile.
Selectable detection ranges (12 m / 8 m / 5 m / 2 m) and a 90 coverage angle with a head rotatable through 180 let installers aim and scale the sensor to the protected area. This flexibility makes it straightforward to protect long driveways, garden perimeters, side alleys or narrow approaches while avoiding detection of areas that should remain unmonitored (for example, neighbouring properties or public footpaths).
With an IP65 ingress protection rating and conformal coating on the electronics, the TD-W is designed to withstand rain, dust and typical outdoor conditions. The sealed tamper mechanism (wall and case tamper) helps protect the detector from tampering or unauthorised removal, which is important for external installations where the device is accessible.
Powered by two 1.5 V AA lithium cells (3 V supply), the detector has a typical current drain of about 70 A and an expected battery life of up to four years under normal operating conditions. Long battery life reduces maintenance trips for replacement, particularly important for detectors mounted around the exterior of a property.
The TD-W is designed to meet EN50131-5-3 (Security Grade 2, Environmental Class IV). It integrates with Texecom Premier and Premier Elite control panels and Ricochet expanders. Installers should always verify final system design and local certification requirements and follow the supplied installation manual for EMC and regulatory details.
Use cases and scenarios where this product excels
- Perimeter protection for residential properties:Use the TD-W to monitor fences, driveways and garden boundaries. Its selectable range and PIR optics minimise detection of pets and passing pedestrians while protecting intended approaches.
- Commercial and small business perimeters:Protect service yards, loading areas and external storage where wired detection is impractical or costly to install.
- Gate and entrance triggering:The detector can be used to automatically trigger security lighting, CCTV recording or gate open/close logic through the alarm system when an intrusion is detected.
- Hybrid wired/wireless systems:Where existing wired external detectors are impractical to add, the Ricochet mesh can bridge gaps and extend the coverage of wired systems with minimal cabling.
- Remote and heritage properties:For properties where trenching or cable runs would damage landscaping or historic fabric, a robust wireless detector provides protection without invasive works.
How the TD-W compares to alternatives
Many wireless detectors operate on a single-hop model where each device communicates directly with the receiver. In challenging RF environments or large sites, those devices can suffer link loss and reduced range. The Ricochet mesh model used by the TD-W allows intermediate devices to relay messages, improving coverage and reducing the need for standalone repeaters. For many installations this means faster, more reliable commissioning and fewer site visits.
External PIRs like the TD-W are volumetric sensors suited to open areas and irregular perimeters. Barrier (beam) or microwave curtain sensors can offer narrow-line protection and can be less prone to some forms of environmental false alarms, but they require precise alignment and are more affected by obstructions. The TD-Ws selectable ranges and mirrored optics make it a versatile choice where volumetric detection is appropriate and easier to install.
Wired external detectors provide consistently reliable communications without batteries, but they require cabling and potentially costly civil works. The TD-W offers a practical trade-off: wireless convenience and mesh resilience at the expense of periodic battery changes. For many retrofit or perimeter-extension scenarios, the wireless approach is faster and less intrusive.
Representative customer feedback and installer impressions
Below are anonymised, representative comments reflecting the experiences of installers and end users who have chosen the TD-W in real-world projects. These summaries are based on common feedback themes from professional installers and customers:
- "Excellent range and reliable mesh performance — fixed many coverage gaps without adding repeaters." — Professional installer.
- "False alarms have been lower than other external PIRs we've tried, especially in windy conditions with bushes nearby." — Homeowner with mixed landscaping.
- "Easy to aim and set the required detection range; battery life has been good and maintenance is minimal." — Facilities manager for a small business.
- "A couple of installations required careful mounting to avoid reflections and thermal sources; as with all external PIRs, siting is critical." — Installer note.
These testimonials underline that the TD-W performs well when sited properly: installers commonly emphasise that correct mounting height (nominal 1.2 m), aiming and use of the selectable ranges are key to maximising performance and minimising false alarms.
Installation tips and practical considerations
- Mount vertically at approximately 1.01.4 m (nominal 1.2 m) and avoid pointing directly at heat sources (air-conditioning units, reflective surfaces) to reduce false alarms.
- Choose AA lithium cells as recommended and follow the installation manual for battery handling and sealing instructions to preserve the IP65 rating.
- When deploying multiple Ricochet devices, consider their placement to ensure robust mesh routing — place intermediate devices where needed to maintain relays across complex sites.
- Confirm system-level compliance with EN50131 variants and local regulations; the detector is designed to meet EN50131-5-3 Grade 2, Environmental Class IV but final certification depends on the complete system and installation method.
Conclusion: Why the TD-W is a strong choice for outdoor perimeter protection
The Texecom Premier Ricochet TD-W (GBW-0002) is a thoughtfully engineered external PIR detector that balances sensitivity, false-alarm resistance and practical installation features. Ricochet mesh networking strengthens wireless resilience and range, while the twin mirrored PIR optics and selectable ranges let installers fine-tune detection to real-world site conditions. IP65 weather protection and long battery life reduce maintenance overheads, making the TD-W an attractive option for residential, commercial and hybrid installations where cabling is impractical or costly.
For users and installers who prioritise reliable outdoor detection with flexible deployment options and demonstrated industry-standard compliance, the TD-W offers a compelling combination of performance and practicality. As always, successful performance depends on careful siting and attention to the installation manual, but when applied correctly the TD-W delivers robust perimeter protection with minimal disruption.
