Seismic or shock detector: Which solution is right for a Grade 3 installation?

Inertial detectors are key devices designed to provide immediate alerts in the event of an intrusion attempt. However, it's essential to distinguish between a seismic detector and a shock detector in order to maximise effectiveness in every professional project.

Both types of detectors have specific applications governed by European technical standards, and accurate interpretation of these standards is crucial to ensure safe and compliant installations. In this regard, the new UNE-EN 50131-2-8 standard clarifies the use of shock detectors in environments vulnerable to mechanical attacks, while the VdS 2331 standard outlines the specifications for Grade 3 seismic detectors, ideal for protection against drilling tools or advanced sabotage.

By Demes, a distributor of security technologies, helps clarify the main differences between shock and impact detectors and advises on the most appropriate solution for each scenario.

What Is a shock detector and where should it be used?

A shock detector, or vibration sensor, is designed to detect physical attacks with blunt tools on materials such as wood, glass or brick. These devices comply with the UNE-EN 50131-2-8 standard, which ensures their effectiveness in detecting rapid and powerful vibrations typical of brute force intrusion attempts.

They are recommended for use on vulnerable structural elements such as doors, windows, or interior walls, providing an immediate response to impacts or breakage. These detectors are commonly installed in high-end residential settings, retail premises, technical rooms, or secondary entrances where manual forced entry is the main threat.

What defines a seismic detector and when is itessential?

Unlike the previous type, a seismic alarm detector is designed to detect more subtle, low-frequency, long-duration vibrations caused by more sophisticated attacks such as diamond drills, mechanical saws, explosives, or thermal tools.

Their application is regulated by the German standard VdS 2331, a technical reference widely recognised across Europe for high-risk installations. These devices are recommended for use in ATMs, vaults, safes, or walls made of reinforced concrete or structural steel.

How to choose between a seismic and a shock detector?

The choice between the two technologies should be based on two key factors: the type of material to be protected and the nature of the potential attack.

• Shock Detector: ideal for softer materials and direct impact attacks (doors, windows, partition walls).

• Seismic Detector: essential for hard surfaces exposed to complex sabotage (concrete, steel, safes).

Both types are available with Grade 3 certification and can be complemented with installation accessories such as metal mounting plates or IP-rated housings. Additionally, brands distributed by By Demes — including Alarmtech, Honeywell, Texecom, CQR, and Hikvision — are part of intrusion ecosystems or can be integrated into third-party systems.

The most advanced solutions, always available at By Demes

Looking to enhance the performance and security of your installations? By Demes offers the most comprehensive range of shock and seismic detectors, with solutions tailored to every scenario and expert technical support. Register as a By Demes client to access exclusive terms, project support and the latest industry updates.