Texecom Ricochet Wireless Explained

Ricochet is Texecom's wireless technology for its Premier Elite alarm systems. Ricochet devices form a mesh network that gives a reliable wireless link between all the components of a system. You can use Ricochet in two ways: with the Premier Elite 64-W hybrid panel, which has wireless built in, or by adding a Ricochet wireless expander to a wired Premier Elite panel.

Watch: Texecom Ricochet Wireless

For the bigger picture of panels, detectors and sounders, see our Texecom alarm systems guide.

What is Ricochet mesh wireless?

Ricochet is the radio technology used by Texecom's "-W" devices. Texecom describes its kits as operating on a Ricochet mesh network that provides a reliable wireless connection between all the components, and lists "Ricochet mesh technology" on devices such as the Odyssey X-W sounder. Texecom also notes that Ricochet wireless devices are highly resistant to interference.

In practice, Ricochet means detectors, keypads, sounders and keyfobs can be added without running cable to every point. That makes it a good fit for occupied homes, listed or decorated buildings and extensions where chasing cables is not practical.

Two ways to build a Ricochet system

Choose the 64-W panel for a mainly wireless system. Choose a wired panel plus a wireless expander when you need a wired system with some wireless devices.

RouteProductWhat it gives you
Hybrid panelPremier Elite 64-W (GEW-0001)4 wired on-board zones; 32 on-board wireless zones, expandable to 64 wireless; 4 areas; 50 user codes; Grade 2 Class II
Hybrid panel with keypadPremier Elite 64-W LIVE (GEX-0001)As the 64-W, plus an on-board LCD keypad with prox reader
Wireless expanderPremier Elite 8XP-W (GCD-0001)Adds Ricochet devices to a Premier Elite panel; EN50131-3, EN50131-5-3 Grade 2 Class II
Wireless expanderPremier Elite 32XP-W (GCA-0001)Adds Ricochet devices to a Premier Elite panel; Grade 2 Class II, including UK PD6662:2017
Expansion packRicochet Expansion Pack (GEC-0002)8XP-W plus iXP-W interface card; adds up to eight wireless devices to any security system

The Premier Elite 64-W hybrid panel

The Ricochet Premier Elite 64-W control panel is designed to be installed out of sight, with day-to-day use through a Premier Elite LCD keypad or the app. It accepts multiple wired and wireless expanders, lets you programme wiring types per zone, and has a switched mode power supply with space for a 7Ah backup battery. It is rated to EN50131-1, EN50131-3, EN50131-5-3 and PD6662:2017 Grade 2 Class II.

The Premier Elite 64-W LIVE adds an on-board LCD keypad with prox reader. Texecom points out this reduces the need for extra wiring when upgrading a system. With a SmartCom or SmartCom 4G communicator, both panels work with Texecom Cloud, Texecom Monitor and Texecom Connect.

To compare the 64-W with the wired 24 to 640 panels, see Texecom Premier Elite control panels compared.

Adding Ricochet to a wired Premier Elite panel

Use a wireless expander. The Premier Elite 8XP-W 8-zone wireless expander and the Premier Elite 32XP-W 32-zone wireless expander both add Ricochet wireless devices to a Texecom Premier Elite control panel. Both support diagnostics through Texecom's wireless monitor software and engineer keypad connectivity.

The Ricochet Wireless Expansion Pack pairs an 8XP-W with an iXP-W 8-zone interface card and can add up to eight wireless devices to any security system. It has a built-in learn switch and LED array, relay-driven wired outputs, and optional global tamper, poll error and low battery indicators (these need separate normally closed circuits on the panel). Note the limitation: the pack is not compatible with SmartKey, DualTechs or wireless sounders.

Which Ricochet devices are available?

Most Premier Elite device types have a Ricochet "-W" version. Examples in our range include:

Ricochet wireless kits

A kit is the quickest route to a complete Ricochet system. The 64 zone wireless kit with Capture (KIT-1001) includes the Premier Elite 64-W panel, a wireless keypad, a door contact, three PIR detectors and five proximity tags, all on the Ricochet mesh network.

Texecom video guides

Video: How To Use The Ricochet Diagnostics Menu On A Texecom Premier Elite Security System (Texecom)

Video: How To Enable Commissioning Mode On A Texecom Premier Elite 64-W Security System (Texecom)

Video: Part 2: Installing Wired & Wireless Alarm Devices – Best Practices with Steve Gartside (Texecom)

Contact Zenith Security Co

Need help choosing the right Texecom equipment? Our team can advise on compatibility, grading and system design.

  • Email: sales@zenithsecurityco.co.uk
  • Phone: 01902 902251
  • Trade counter: Unit 3, Park View Centre, 243 Dudley Road, Wolverhampton WV2 3JU
  • Fast delivery across England, Scotland and Wales on all Texecom products

Frequently asked questions

Does Ricochet work with any Texecom panel?

Ricochet devices connect to Premier Elite panels, either directly to the 64-W hybrid panel or through an 8XP-W or 32XP-W wireless expander on a wired Premier Elite panel.

Can I use a SmartKey with the Ricochet Expansion Pack?

No. Texecom states the Expansion Pack is not compatible with SmartKey, DualTechs or wireless sounders. Use an 8XP-W or 32XP-W expander, or the 64-W panel, instead.

What grade is a Ricochet system?

The 64-W panels and the 8XP-W and 32XP-W expanders are Grade 2 Class II.

Is there software for checking Ricochet signals?

Yes. The 8XP-W and 32XP-W support diagnostics through Texecom's wireless monitor software, and Texecom publishes Ricochet Monitor Software as a download.

Next step

Ready to go wireless? Shop Texecom Ricochet wireless, starting with the Premier Elite 64-W panel.