The linking of multiple technologies to achieve superior performance is an approach well understood by system integrators looking to deliver high quality solutions to their customers. Often this involves configuring disparate devices to work in unison,but manufacturers are now offering combined devices, such as the Saros range from FLIR.
When it comes to security applications, there is no one perfect technology. If such a thing existed, it would make everyone’s lives easier. As a result, while single technology solutions can offer a degree of risk mitigation, all have some degree of compromise. For a critical solution, any level of compromise can introduce vulnerabilities that potentially negate the protection on offer.
For example, consider video surveillance. The technology is well proven and offers a host of benefits, especially when linked with video analytics. However, the compromise with video is that if the target cannot be seen, the system cannot trigger actions or record anything of value. Problems can be caused by lack of sufficient light, image noise, intruders concealing themselves, fog, smoke, etc..
Where conditions can be challenging, some integrators will need to incorporate artificial illumination. This necessitates the addition of an illuminator, which requires additional power and cabling.
In some conditions, even the inclusion of additional illumination cannot guarantee performance to the required level. In such cases, thermal imaging is often considered. Thermal imaging has the benefit of using a heat signature rather than a visual image. As such it allows the identification of intruders, even in conditions that would impact on the usefulness of a video camera.
Thermal devices can show the presence of people in darkness, fog, smoke or other environmental conditions. They can even locate people who are hidden in cover that would obscure them from a video camera. Their ability to provide accurate detection makes them extremely suitable for use with intelligent video analytics. Indeed, in some applications, using IVA with thermal imaging is superior to using it with video devices.
The downside of thermal imaging is that while it is effective in the detection of intruders, the captured image does not include the level of detail required to make a positive identification.
For many integrators, the best approach is to use video surveillance backed with additional illumination alongside thermal imaging, with both supported by intelligent video analytics. While offering the best solution in terms of performance and credibility, combing all four devices can be less than elegant. However, with the launch of the Saros range, FLIR provides a solution.
What is it?
Saros is a single device that combines a number of technologies to deliver a solution which maximises catch performance while minimising the level of compromise. By bringing a number of technologies together in one single unit is simplifies installation and cabling and eliminates alignment issues.
Saros devices make use of high definition video cameras, thermal imaging cores, integral illuminators, intelligent video analytics, alarm inputs and outputs and two-way audio. This enables a high degree of flexibility and permits numerous combinations to be deployed, enhancing the level of protection on offer.
The Saros range utilises its perimeter protection technologies to deliver accurate and actionable alarm notifications backed by verified alarm data. The devices include multiple Lepton thermal sensors, along with up to three HD1080p or 4K video modules, dependent upon the product specification.
The units additionally incorporate IR and white light LED illuminators, with auto selection based upon the operating mode and site conditions.
Both the video and thermal imaging streams incorporate advanced onboard analytics. These have the ability to differentiate between people and vehicles, ensuring that alarm classifications are accurate.
The Saros range enables users to implement reliable outdoor intrusion detection in a cost-effective manner by minimising equipment requirements and reducing false alarms.
With the growing focus on cybersecurity, FLIR has ensured that its Saros range incorporates cybersecure design and engineering to reduce the risk of remote security attacks. The devices incorporate end-to-end encryption for set-up, web connectivity and video stream transmission. The configurations eliminate the need for port-forwarding, and device configurations can be ‘locked down’ when the initial set-up is completed to deliver a high degree of tamper prevention.
A few more specs?
The Saros range includes six models. The DH-390 2TB and DH-390 8MP models feature a single HD1080p video sensor and a 4K UHD video sensor respectively. Both variants incorporate two thermal imaging sensors with a 320 x 120 pixel array with a 90 degree field of view.
The MH-6180 4MP and MH-6180 16MP models feature dual HD1080p video sensors and 4K UHD video sensors respectively. Both variants incorporate two thermal imaging sensors with a 640 x 120 pixel array with a 180 degree field of view.
Finally, the MH-9270 6MP and MH-9270 24MP cameras feature three HD1080p video sensors and 4K UHD video sensors respectively. Both variants incorporate six thermal imaging sensors with a 960 x 120 pixel array with a 270 degree field of view.
All devices include real-time video frame rates, automatic white balance functionality and backlight compensation. The cameras include a 16GB SSD for edge storage.
The video cameras use 3-9mm lenses with autofocus and motorised zoom.
Engineer benefits
For system integrators, Saros delivers a wide range of complementary benefits while ensuring that installations are simple and cost-effective. As the various elements are factory-aligned, there is no need for on-site adjustments on the individual elements.
Reduced cabling and the need for a single mounting ensures that time on site is kept to a minimum, and the single device approach reduces the need for significant stock-holding, thus reducing overall costs.