Shock Sensor Installation Guide¶

Guide to shock sensor installation for UK alarm systems covering window and door protection, sensitivity adjustment, wiring, and configuration for wood, uPVC, aluminium, and composite frames.

Shock Sensor Types and Technology¶

Shock sensors (also called vibration detectors or inertia sensors) detect physical impact or vibration on windows, doors, and walls. They complement magnetic contacts by detecting the intruder after entry attempts begin. Two types: piezo-electric shock sensors (generate a voltage when vibrated - proportional to impact force) and inertia sensors (reed switch with a mass that closes on vibration). Piezo sensors are the most common in UK alarm systems costing £15-£30 each. Popular UK models: Texecom Elite Shock (£20-£30, piezo, adjustable sensitivity), Pyronix Shock Guard (£25-£35, dual-mode shock + tilt), and Optex VXI-VS (£18-£25, inertia type). Detection principle: the sensor detects the vibration pattern of forced entry (hammer, crowbar, or bodily impact) while ignoring environmental vibrations (wind, traffic, trains). Sensitivity is adjustable via a potentiometer on the sensor - set to detect a moderate impact from a fist on the frame. Over-sensitive sensors trigger false alarms from passing lorries or slamming doors. Under-sensitive sensors miss actual break-in attempts. The dual-mode Shock Guard detector uses two detection thresholds: one for single sharp impacts (sledgehammer attack) and one for sustained vibration (sawing through a frame).

Installation and Sensitivity Configuration¶

Mounting position: mount shock sensors on the window or door frame (not the glass itself). Position on the frame corner opposite the locking point for best vibration transmission. For uPVC windows mount on the frame inner edge at the corner furthest from the handle. For timber windows mount on the frame top corner using 3mm screws. For aluminium doors mount on the frame using adhesive pad or 2mm self-tapping screws. For composite doors mount on the frame rebate section. Wiring connection: 4-core cable - red (12V positive), black (0V negative), yellow (alarm signal NC), green (tamper). Connect to the alarm panel as a Perimeter or Immediate zone. Wiring multiple shock sensors: wire in series on a single zone for multiple windows in one room (NC loop). Sensitivity adjustment: start at medium setting (approximately 50% of the potentiometer range). Test by applying a firm impact to the frame with your palm - the sensor should trigger. Increase sensitivity if the impact does not register. Decrease if the sensor triggers during environmental events (strong wind, nearby traffic). Walk test: test each sensor individually and as part of the zone. Verify the tamper circuit works when the cover is removed. Shock sensors on ground floor windows should be Immediate zones. First floor windows can be Perimeter zones in part-arm mode. For Grade 2 compliance, all accessible ground floor openings require protection.

Specifications and Comparison¶

Sensor Type	Detection Method	Best Location	UK Price
Piezo Shock Sensor	Vibration voltage generation	Window frames, door frames	£15-£30
Inertia Shock Sensor	Mass + reed switch	Metal frames, garage doors	£12-£25
Dual-Mode Shock+Tilt	Shock + frame tilt detection	Roller garage doors	£25-£40
Wireless Shock Sensor	Battery-powered, wireless	Retrofit, rental properties	£25-£40
Glass Break + Shock Combo	Acoustic + vibration	Conservatories, large windows	£35-£55

FAQ¶

Where should I install shock sensors on windows?: Mount on the window frame corner opposite the locking point. This position receives the strongest vibration when the frame is impacted. For uPVC windows mount on the inner frame edge. For timber windows mount on the top corner using 3mm screws.
How do I adjust shock sensor sensitivity?: Use the sensitivity potentiometer on the sensor. Start at 50% (mid-range). Test by striking the frame with your palm - the sensor LED should illuminate. Adjust up if too sensitive (triggered by wind) or down if not sensitive enough.
Can I wire multiple shock sensors on one zone?: Yes - wire shock sensors in series on a single zone for multiple windows in the same room. Connect alarm NC and tamper NC in series. Each additional sensor reduces the total zone resistance slightly - keep to maximum 5-6 sensors per zone. For more information see our Alarm Keyholder Management Guide.

Last updated: 2026-05-31.

External Resources¶

For further information consult authority guidelines at the British Standards Institution (BSI).