Dual-Tech Detector Guide UK¶

Guide to dual-technology (dual-tech) detectors for UK alarm systems combining PIR and microwave sensing for reduced false alarms in demanding environments.

Dual-Tech Detector Technology and Benefits¶

Dual-technology (dual-tech) detectors combine Passive Infrared (PIR) and microwave (MW) detection in a single unit. Both technologies must trigger simultaneously for the detector to generate an alarm, dramatically reducing false alarms from environmental causes. PIR detects body heat changes while microwave detects movement using Doppler shift at 10.525GHz or 24GHz (K-band). If only one technology triggers (e.g. PIR from a radiator heating cycle, or MW from a flapping curtain), the detector does not alarm. Dual-tech detectors are essential in challenging UK environments: conservatories (glass causes rapid temperature changes), garages and workshops (temperature fluctuations and vehicle exhaust), boiler rooms (heat sources), and commercial kitchens. Popular UK dual-tech detectors: Texecom Elite Dual-Tech (£45-£60, PIR + 24GHz MW, 12m range), Pyronix Euroguard DT (£50-£65, PIR + 10.525GHz MW, 15m range), and Optex OLS series (£40-£55, PIR + MW, 10m range). The dual-tech advantage: false alarm reduction up to 90% compared to standalone PIR. Microwave frequency selection: 10.525GHz X-band is more common and cheaper but can penetrate walls causing false alarms from adjacent rooms. 24GHz K-band is more directional and suitable for room-specific detection.

Installation and Configuration Guide¶

Dual-tech detectors require more careful placement than standard PIRs because the microwave sensor can detect movement through walls. Mounting height: 2.1-2.4 metres following standard PIR placement. The microwave beam must be directed within the room - never point at walls shared with other rooms, hallways, or outside areas. Walk test procedure: perform a PIR-only walk test first (cover the MW lens), then a combined test. The detector has separate LED indicators for each technology (typically red for PIR, green for MW, both for alarm). Sensitivity adjustment: set PIR sensitivity first (adjustable via potentiometer on most models), then MW sensitivity. For UK conservatories set MW sensitivity to medium to avoid detecting external movement through glass. For garages set both to high for maximum detection. The alarm panel zone should be configured as Immediate with 0.5 second response. Dual-tech detectors cost £40-£65 compared to £15-£30 for standard PIRs but the additional cost is justified in problem locations. Power consumption: dual-tech detectors draw 30-50mA (vs 15-25mA for standard PIR) - ensure the control panel power supply is adequate.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Detector	Technology	Range	Best Location	UK Price
Standard PIR	PIR only	12m x 90 deg	Living rooms, bedrooms	£15-£30
Dual-Tech PIR+MW	PIR + 24GHz MW	12m x 90 deg	Conservatories, garages	£45-£65
Dual-Curtain PIR+MW	Narrow beam + MW	15m x 15 deg	Corridors, hallways	£40-£60
Dual-Tech Outdoor	PIR + MW, weatherpoof	15m x 90 deg	External detection	£60-£90
PIR + Dual MW	PIR + dual MW channels	12m x 90 deg	High-risk commercial	£70-£100

FAQ¶

Where should I install dual-tech detectors in my UK home?: Install dual-tech detectors in locations prone to false alarms with standard PIRs: conservatories (rapid temperature changes through glass), garages (temperature and exhaust fluctuations), boiler rooms, and rooms with high ambient heat variation.
Are dual-tech detectors worth the extra cost?: Yes in problem locations. Dual-tech detectors cost £20-£35 more than standard PIRs but virtually eliminate false alarms from environmental causes. In a typical UK home, 1-2 dual-tech detectors in problem rooms resolve 90% of nuisance alarm issues.
Can dual-tech detectors see through walls?: The microwave component can penetrate plasterboard walls - the detector may detect movement in an adjacent room. Mount dual-tech detectors so the microwave beam is directed within the protected room only, not through walls into other areas. For more information see our Alarm Panel Programming Guide.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the Electrical Safety First.