Benchmark looks at products of interest for those involved in the design, specification, installation and deployment of perimeter protection solutions. By detecting incidents at the very edge of a site, the earliest possible actions can be taken to enhance security, safety and site management.
FLIR: Triton D Series
The well-established Triton D-Series security cameras from FLIR combine thermal imaging with video surveillance to offer a combination that detects intruders and other security threats in darkness and inclement weather. The camera offers precise pan/tilt control and fully-programmable patrol patterns and pre-sets. It can also be used with radar-based detectors as the device includes slew-to-cue and slew-to-alarm functionality.
The thermal imaging element delivers 640 × 480 pixel thermal resolution, which is higher than most security-centric thermal imagers. The increased resolution allows accurate detection over longer ranges, with better image quality to help determine accurate identification of target types.
The thermal imaging element can be specified with a varied range of lenses, with focal lengths from 9mm to 35mm, giving a field of view from 48 degrees to 13 degrees. This needs to specified at the point of purchase as lenses on thermal images are not changeable in the field.
The Triton D Series devices offer simultaneous thermal imaging with traditional video streaming. This enables thermally-detected activity to be accompanied by a video image to aid target identification in a wide variety of conditions. The camera’s day/night 36× zoom colour CCD video camera can deliver multiple video streams of up to D1 resolution in H.264, MPEG-4 or M-JPEG formats.
The camera is housed in a dome enclosure providing 360 degree continuous pan and +45 to -180 degrees tilt for superior coverage. Auto Digital Detail Enhancement (DDE) is an integral technology that ensures optimal image quality across a wide range of scene conditions/
The Triton D Series cameras use open standards for plug-and-play integration and configuration across digital networks.
Takex: PXB-1ooHF
The PXB-1ooHF is part of the well-established active infrared beam detector range from Takex. With an overall outdoor range of 100 metres (models are available with 50 and 200 metre ranges) the sensors make use of four synchronised beams to offer a higher degree of stability. The beams make use of double modulation, eliminating issues with other sources of light such as sunlight, car headlights, spotlights, etc.. The sensors have a 50,000 lux immunity.
The detectors feature an increased beam pitch (a larger space between the two beam pairs), which Takex claims reduces occurrences of nuisance activations, such as false alerts caused by falling leaves, low-flying birds or wind-borne debris.
The manufacturer states that unit power is 100 times greater than required to deliver consistent performance in harsh environmental conditions. The modulated pulsed beam can be set to various frequencies to prevent cross-talk when devices are stacked.
The detectors are designed for fast and simple optical alignment; an optional wireless alignment checker is also available.
Beam adjustment is ±90 degrees on the horizontal axis and ±20 degrees on the vertical axis, allowing for a high degree of flexibility.
Offering reduced current consumption, the beams offer cost savings throughout their operational lifespan.
Bosch: Dinion IP thermal 8000
The Dinion IP thermal 8000 camera from Bosch provides high-sensitivity thermal images using an uncooled vanadium oxide microbolometer that delivers high image quality. The 8000 unit combine the multiple benefits of thermal imaging in perimeter protection applications with the free-to-use Intelligent Video Analytics from Bosch.
Detection accuracy is enhanced as there is no requirement for natural or artificial lighting in the area of interest. Because of the high contract of thermal images, the analytics performs to a higher level than with video streams, ensuring accuracy in perimeter-based applications.
The thermal imager produces clear images regardless of illumination levels at the viewed scene, even in challenging environments with smoke, dust, haze or fog.
The Dinion IP thermal 8000 is available with a choice of narrow field-of-view (NFOV) or wide field-of-view (WFOV) lenses. There are two resolution variants: QVGA with a frame rate of 9 or 60fps, or VGA resolution with a frame rate of 9 or 30fps. Lens options are 7.5mm for the QVGA model, or 9mm and 16.7mm for the VGA model.
In terms of detection distances, the QVGA model can detect a human at up to 140 metres. The VGA models can detect human activity at up to 155 metres with the 9mm lens, or 315 metres with the 16.7mm lens.
The integrated video analytics from Bosch is both robust and adds intelligence to the thermal imager.
Features include simple calibration, stability without nuisance activations, high catch performance and extended range.
The analytics detect, track and analyse targets, and can either create alerts when predefined alarm events occur, or the generated and recorded metdata can be used to search for rule violations, even after an incident has taken place. This also enables operators to quickly retrieve relevant images from stored video.
OPTEX: Redscan
OPTEX offers the Redscan range of laser detector, which can be used for outdoor perimeter-based applications. Models includes the RLS-2020 delivering a 20 x 20 metre detection range, and the RLS-3060 with a 50 x 50 metre detection zone, and 190 degree coverage. The sensors accurately detect objects and people passing through the virtual 2D LiDAR shield and can either generate zoned alarms or can trigger linked PTZ-enabled camera to preset positions, pinpointing intruders and tracking them across zones.
The sensors feature an enhanced microprocessor that provides powerful detection capabilities. Captured data is then relayed to a VMS or other alarm system to provide a quicker, more accurate response.
The sensors are PoE compliant, and can send alarms via traditional relay outputs or by using an IP-based Redwall event code. The latter is integrated with all major video management system platforms and enables advanced functionality.
The RLS series detectors have a number of environmental resistance features to minimise false alarms in a wide range of hostile weather conditions.
Laser-based sensors can be configured for vertical and horizontal detection modes, with adjustable detection areas with an IP connection. Alarm outputs can be assigned, with selectable outputs.
Xtralis: Adpro Pro E
The ADPRO PRO E series of perimeter detection devices includes a variety of devices with ranges up to 200 metres. It features seven zones and uses mirror optics for precise detection. Advanced digital signal processing and adaptive threshold discrimination are utilised to eliminate nuisance activations. There are models available which also allow the use of directional discriminations, ignoring motion moving either from right-to-left or left-to-right.
Detection of intruders can be achieved if they are walking, running or crawling. Detection covers motion at speeds of 0.2 to 5 metres per second. Sensitivity of the detector can be adjusted using software tools.
Xtralis has designed the PRO E to be simpler to install and commission, and has created a range of extras with the installer or integrator in mind.
Settings can be made using a software tool via an RS485 connection. Xtralis also offers the iCommission tool, enabling one-person alignment from ground level. This utilises a plug-in tool with wireless comms and a smartphone app. During walk testing the alignment of the detector can be automatically adjusted, enabling one person commissioning.
The PRO E range is available as a standard detector, an IP variant or as a wireless unit. The latter’s receivers are compatible with a range of third party devices, and battery life is quoted as up to two years.
Senstar: FlexZone
FlexZone from Senstar is a fence-mounted sensor system which detects any attempt to cut, climb or otherwise break through the fence. It can also provide a location of the attack, allowing a security team to respond swiftly when a violation occurs. The locations of intrusions can be accurately indicated, even if multiple simultaneous intrusions occur. The system is also not affected by background environmental noise, according to the manufacturer.
FlexZone can protect a fence-based perimeter over distances of up to 600 metres per FlexZone processor. Location accuracy is claimed to be within 3 metres.
Each processor manages up to 60 customisable detection zones. Power and alarm data is transmitted over the sensor cables, reducing infrastructure requirements for any installation.
The system’s digital signal processing allows flexibility when installing the system, as it can adapt to a number of fence fabrics.
Minute levels of flexing in the sensor cable can be detected, and high-speed sampling enables the processor to capture precise data from the fence signal. It then uses dedicated perimeter-based algorithms to discriminate between intrusion signals and innocuous environmental noise. This increases catch performance while also reducing nuisance alarm activations.
Southwest Microwave: Intrepid UniZone
Intrepid UniZone is a standalone perimeter fence detection sensor designed to offer cost-effective protection to smaller sites vulnerable to attack, sabotage, asset theft or with a need to ensure compliance related to liability risks.
Based on MicroPoint smart-sensor technology, UniZone protects fence lines of up to 200 metres. The system comprises a UniZone fence detection sensor mounted to the fence or in a nearby secure area, and a single sensor cable fitted to the fence, detecting cut and climb attempts.
UniZone uses Point Impact Discrimination to monitor activity along the cable in 1.1 metre increments, allowing a zoned approach to be implemented. It analyses the characteristics of each activation to detect cut or climb intrusion attempts while ignoring environmental disturbances.
System intelligence and digital signal processing mitigate risks of site compromise while also delivering a low nuisance alarm rate.
SICK: LMC1xx-2D
The LMC1xx-2D range of 2D LiDAR sensors from SICK offer laser-based detection and can be configured to deliver a curtain type zone, making them ell suited for fence protection in perimeter detection applications.
The sensors feature a high angular resolution to improve reliability with few false alarms due to the ability to precisely configure the detection area. The units are small and discreet, enabling near-invisible installation. Ease of integration makes it a straightforward task to add the devices into existing alarm systems.
The low maintenance units offer immunity against environmental issues, thus enhancing stability.
The sensors incorporate two isolated relays (alarm) and 1 output. With detection ranges of up to 20 metres in both the horizontal and vertical planes, and up to 10 definable monitoring fields, the sensors are ideal for many applications.
Texecom: Premier External TD-W
The Premier External TD-W is a wireless outdoor PIR sensor. It can be used for monitoring open areas and reporting intrusions, or for switching additional systems such as video surveillance, lighting, etc..
The detector makes use of two separate non-overlapping PIR sensors; both must detect motion for an alert to be generated. The first sensor has a detection field which is at 90 degrees from the unit, thus providing a flat plane of detection at the mounting height (this is 1.0–1.4 metres). The second detection zone is angled downwards and can be adjusted to allow range limitation if required.
The sensor offers a 90 degree coverage with a range of up to 12 metres. This can be limited to 8, 5 or 2 metres using a simple rotary adjuster. The detection heads can also be rotated through 180 degrees.
To ensure accurate performance, the sensors make use of mirror optics. The detector makes use of the Ricochet mesh-based wireless platform.
One feature of the Premier External TD-W is that the device includes a light sensor. This allows a day/night mode to be used for configuration. In day/night mode the sensor is active around-the-clock, while in night mode it is only active during the hours of darkness.
The TD-W measures 89 x 86.5 x 250mm, is rated to IP65 and is available in black or white finishes. It is powered by two 1.5V AA lithium batteries which are included with the sensors. A battery life of up to four years is quoted.
Axis Communications: AXIS Perimeter Defender
AXIS Perimeter Defender is designed to operate at the perimeter of a site. It works in combination with network cameras, audio speakers and video management software, to offer a video-based solution for effective perimeter protection.
The AXIS Perimeter Defender plug-in provides accurate sensing capabilities with support for multiple detection scenarios, including intrusion detection and loitering. The application detects multiple events, including any that occur simultaneously across an entire site. The application analyses detected events, dismisses non-threatening ones and notifies operators of potentially critical situations.
The user can view detailed video footage to determine the precise nature of the threat and take appropriate actions, including the issue of audible warnings.
The application is scalable and can be embedded in as many network cameras or video encoders as required. It analyses the video for events, directly on the network camera or video encoder. Since the video is not sent to a central server, there is no need for additional hardware, and this approach minimises the use of network bandwidth and storage space.
GPS Standard: Snake
The Snake fibre optic system is a fence-mounted perimeter protection system which uses opto-phonic technology. It can be used to detect intrusion attempts via climbing, cutting or breaking through the fence. It can also be used as part of an indoor application to detect attempts to break through or penetrate structural walls.
It is suitable for use with mesh and bar fences, concrete and brick walls, rooftops and cable trays. In standalone mode it supports four fence-lines of up to 2000 metres, although this can be extended in multiplex mode.
Risco Group: WatchOUT DT Extreme
The WatchOUT DT Extreme from Risco is an external detector that incorporates active IR anti-mask and proximity detection technologies, to protect against tampering when installed in no-secure areas.
These features are backed by the proprietary Sway Recognition and Digital Correlation to enhance catch performance and the filtering of nuisance activations.
The detector offers a 15 metre 90 degree detection range with wide angle coverage, 23 metre 5 degree detection range with long range coverage and 15 metres 5 degree field of view with barrier coverage. The sensor also features pet immunity, where animals have a head height of up to 700mm.
Making use of two microwave and two PIR sensors, the detector has a mounting height of 1 to 2.7 metres. It can be configured for relay-based systems or deployed as a part of the Risco Bus system.