DMP MET-44WG-18 Overhead Contact
Overview
The DMP MET-44WG-18 is a networked overhead contact sensor designed for distributed perimeter and entry-point detection in commercial and retail security systems. This device functions as a TCP/IP zone input, allowing you to integrate door, window, and opening sensors directly into modern IP-based intrusion detection systems without requiring hardwired analog circuits back to a central panel. The MET-44WG-18 (often searched as MET 44WG 18) communicates via standard network protocols, making it suitable for facilities where pulling new copper would be cost-prohibitive or physically impractical.
Key Features
- TCP/IP Network Integration: Eliminates the need for dedicated analog wiring runs to each sensor. Deploy multiple contact points across a facility and report zone status through your existing IP network infrastructure — reduces installation labor and simplifies future relocations.
- Overhead Mounting Capability: Purpose-built form factor for ceiling or transom installation on doors and windows. Detects unauthorized opening or motion across protected thresholds without requiring surface-mounted or recessed door frame hardware.
- DMP Control Panel Compatibility: Integrates directly with DMP control panels and security management systems that support TCP/IP zone devices. Verify your panel firmware and licensing; not all legacy DMP systems support IP zones natively.
- Distributed Sensor Deployment: No master/slave panel topology required. Each contact point reports independently across the network, allowing you to expand perimeter coverage without central panel I/O bottlenecks — valuable for large warehouse, retail, or multi-building campuses.
- Retail and Commercial Targeting: Designed for environments where entry control and after-hours breach detection matter — loading dock doors, emergency exits, storage areas, and high-value merchandise enclosures. Compatible with access control workflows that enforce zone validation on door unlock events.
- Standard Network Deployment: Works within standard TCP/IP security infrastructure. Requires appropriate network segmentation and access-list policies; treat it as a critical network device, not an afterthought IoT endpoint.
Integration and Compatibility
The MET-44WG-18 requires a compatible DMP control panel or management platform configured to accept TCP/IP zone inputs. Before purchase, confirm that your target panel supports IP zone provisioning — some legacy DMP hardware may require firmware updates or licensing upgrades. Network deployment also means you must allocate VLAN capacity, ensure PoE or separate DC power availability at the sensor location, and plan for network monitoring and failover redundancy. Unlike hardwired sensors, network-based contacts depend on switch uptime and network path integrity; a single switch failure or IP route black hole can orphan multiple sensor zones.
Installation is straightforward for overhead mounting on doors, windows, or openings. Consult the security integrator installation guides and DMP commissioning documentation for panel-specific zone configuration steps and network topology recommendations.
When to Choose a Different Approach
If your facility already has hardwired analog wiring in place and you're looking to minimize network load or add sensors incrementally, traditional wired contact sensors may be more cost-effective. Similarly, if your DMP panel does not support TCP/IP zones and firmware upgrade is not an option, you'll need to stick with analog inputs or migrate to a newer control platform. For facilities with unreliable or heavily congested networks, hardwired sensors offer higher availability and do not depend on DHCP or routing stability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the MET-44WG-18 work with non-DMP control panels?
A: No. This device is designed specifically for DMP systems that support TCP/IP zone inputs. It will not function with Honeywell, 2GIG, or other third-party panels.
Q: What networking standard does the MET-44WG-18 use?
A: The MET-44WG-18 communicates via TCP/IP protocol over standard Ethernet. You will need a managed switch or PoE+ capability at the installation point. Consult the datasheet for specific port and bandwidth requirements.
Q: Can I mix overhead contacts with traditional hardwired sensors on the same DMP panel?
A: Yes, most DMP panels support hybrid configurations where some zones are analog wired and others are TCP/IP networked. Confirm with your panel documentation and your security integrator before design.
Q: Is the MET-44WG-18 suitable for outdoor applications?
A: The MET-44WG-18 is designed for indoor overhead mounting. If you need outdoor door or window sensors, consult with your integrator about weatherproof contact alternatives or outdoor intrusion sensor options in the DMP product line.
Q: What is the typical installation lead time?
A: Stock availability and lead times vary. Contact your distributor for current availability and delivery timelines for the MET-44WG-18.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The MET-44WG-18 is a solid fit if you're expanding a DMP-based perimeter system and want to avoid running new analog circuits through finished walls or across distributed buildings. The TCP/IP architecture buys you flexibility — you get zone granularity without panel I/O constraints — but it also introduces a dependency on network availability that hardwired sensors don't have.
Technical Highlights:
- TCP/IP Zone Reporting: Each contact sends discrete zone state across your IP network. That means no long analog wire runs, no voltage drops over distance, and easier future relocation if opening assignments change.
- Overhead Mounting Form Factor: Purpose-designed for transom and ceiling installation on doors and windows. Cleaner aesthetics than a surface-mounted contacts, and harder to tamper with than a floor-level unit.
- DMP Native Integration: No third-party gateway or protocol translator required. As long as your panel firmware supports IP zones, the MET-44WG-18 provisions and reports like any native zone device.
Deployment Considerations:
- Network Dependency: Unlike hardwired sensors, this device lives or dies by your switch uptime and network routing. A single switch failure or misconfigured ACL can orphan the zone. Build redundancy into your network design — dual switches, RSTP, or secondary IP paths — if this contact is guarding a critical door.
- Panel Firmware Qualification: Not all DMP panel revisions support TCP/IP zones. Verify your target panel's firmware version and licensing before you spec the MET-44WG-18. An older VISTA or Diamond panel may not recognize it without updates.
- Power and Port Planning: The sensor needs network connectivity (PoE or separate DC) at the overhead location. Pre-wire network drops to all proposed ceiling mount points; running Cat6 after drywall is in place is expensive and disruptive.
The MET-44WG-18 is your go-to choice for new retail builds or warehouse expansions where hardwired analog infrastructure is either prohibitive or already sunsetted. If you're retrofitting a decades-old facility with solid existing wiring, keep your hardwired contacts and save the network load for cameras and edge analytics.
