Texecom Impaq Shock Sensors Explained: Impaq E, S, SC, G3 and SC-W
A Texecom shock sensor detects the vibration of an attempted forced entry on a door or window before the intruder gets inside. The current Texecom Impaq range comes in wired Grade 2 (Impaq S and Impaq SC), wired Grade 3 (Impaq S G3) and wireless (Impaq SC-W) versions, with the budget Veritas Impaq E for simpler systems. Most models use Texecom's VIBER accelerometer technology rather than an older piezo element.
Watch: Texecom Impaq Shock Sensors
This article is part of our Texecom alarm systems guide, which covers panels, detectors and accessories across the whole range.
What does a Texecom Impaq shock sensor do?
An Impaq sensor fixes to a frame or surface and signals an alarm when it feels the sub-surface shock of someone forcing, levering or striking that surface. Because it reacts to the attack itself, it gives perimeter protection: the alarm can activate while the intruder is still outside, rather than after they have walked past an internal motion detector.
Shock sensors are commonly paired with a magnetic contact, so the same device reports both an attack on a window and the window actually being opened. In the Impaq range, the "C" in a model name (SC, SC-W) tells you a contact is included.
What is VIBER accelerometer technology?
VIBER is Texecom's accelerometer-based detection method, and it is the main reason to choose a current Impaq over an older shock sensor. According to Texecom's product information, VIBER gives a much higher level of accuracy than the piezoelectric technology used in non-conforming products. It is highly sensitive to sub-surface shock from attempted forced entry while being immune to airborne high-frequency noise, which helps reduce false alarms.
Three-dimensional detection: unlike piezo sensors, VIBER detects in all three dimensions, so the sensor can be mounted in any orientation.
Five digital sensitivity settings: these let the device be installed on a wide range of materials, from window frames to concrete.
Digital signal processing and an LED-assisted set-up procedure for calibration on site.
Texecom Impaq models compared
The quickest way to choose is to decide on wired or wireless, whether you need a magnetic contact, and which security grade the system is designed to.
Model
Connection
Shock
Contact
Grade (as stated)
Finishes stocked
Veritas Impaq E
Wired
Yes
No
Grade 2
White, brown
Impaq S
Wired
Yes (VIBER)
No
EN50131-2-8 Grade 2, PD6662:2017 Grade 2
White, brown, anthracite grey
Impaq SC
Wired
Yes (VIBER)
Optional magnetic contact
Grade 2
White, brown, anthracite grey
Impaq S G3
Wired
Yes (VIBER)
No
EN50131-2-8 Grade 3
White
Impaq SC-W
Wireless (Ricochet)
Yes (VIBER)
Yes
EN50131-2-8, EN50131-2-6 and EN50131-5-3 Grade 2
White, brown, anthracite grey, black
Impaq S: the standard wired Texecom shock sensor
For most wired Grade 2 installations, the Impaq S is the default choice. It combines VIBER detection with five sensitivity settings, built-in end-of-line (EOL) resistors, the LED-assisted set-up and Environmental Class II rating, and is listed to EN50131-2-8 Grade 2 and PD6662:2017 Grade 2.
Choose the Impaq SC when you want one wired device to protect against both forced entry and the door or window being opened. Texecom describes it as a wired shock sensor with the option for a magnetic contact, so a single unit and cable run covers both signals. It shares the Impaq S detection technology.
The Impaq S G3 is the wired option for systems designed to Grade 3, typically higher-end residential and commercial properties. Texecom states it exceeds the requirements of EN50131-2-8, the European standard for vibration detectors, and that it has been independently certified by Kiwa Telefication. It keeps the familiar Impaq features, including VIBER, five sensitivity settings and built-in EOL resistors, and Texecom says installers can switch seamlessly between Grade 2 and Grade 3 devices.
The Impaq SC-W is the choice where running cable to a window or door is impractical. It is a wireless shock sensor and magnetic contact that signals over Texecom's Ricochet mesh technology. Other features listed by Texecom:
Magnet can be installed on either side of the device, for more flexible positioning
Three-year typical battery life
Roller shutter input for "partly open" protection
EN50131-2-8, EN50131-2-6 and EN50131-5-3 Grade 2, PD6662:2017 Grade 2, Environmental Class II
The Veritas Impaq E is a wired Grade 2 shock sensor from Texecom's Veritas range, available in white and brown. The store listing gives limited technical detail beyond this, so if you need VIBER detection or the published EN50131-2-8 listing, the Impaq S is the better-documented choice. View the Veritas Impaq E wired shock sensor in white (AEA-0001).
How to choose the right Texecom shock sensor
Wired panel, Grade 2, shock only: Impaq S.
Wired, shock and opening detection in one unit: Impaq SC.
Grade 3 system: Impaq S G3.
No cable route, or a Ricochet-based system: Impaq SC-W.
Shock sensors protect the perimeter; most systems still use internal motion detectors as a second layer. Our Texecom Capture detectors guide covers those.
