Perimeter Security

Spotlight on speciality microwave sensors

As a global leader in the design and manufacture of integrated, high-security, outdoor electronic perimeter security systems, Southwest Microwave supplies broad-ranging sensor technologies and security management tools for precise, immediate detection of unauthorised site access.  Here, several specialty microwave solutions highlight this organisation’s unique ability to meet the perimeter security requirements of environmentally-challenging, temporary and non-traditional detection applications.

Rugged, explosionproof solutions
Oil rig disasters serve as devastating reminders of the relevance of security equipment built to withstand an ever-present risk of explosion. With chemically volatile sites like oil drilling platforms poised as prime targets for terrorist attack, Southwest Microwave’s Model 310B-33456 Explosionproof Microwave Link becomes a highly applicable solution.  Designed to operate in the presence of flammable, combustible or easily ignitable materials, the Model 310B-33456 combines superior volumetric detection capabilities, water and corrosion-resistance, and a rating for operation in chemically hazardous conditions – making it an ideal solution for early detection of intruders attempting to infiltrate, and potentially devastate, an offshore drilling platform.

Additionally, this specially rated device achieves reliable intrusion detection at oil refineries, chemical and petrochemical plants, petroleum or chemical storage facilities and other sites where hazardous materials are handled, processed or stored. Transmitter and receiver are packaged in weatherproof, explosionproof enclosures with front access to controls and test points. Systems operate at K-band (24.125 GHz) frequency, for optimal detection performance and resistance to external radar interference. 

Unique mobile solutions
When temporary perimeter protection is in order, or in the absence of onsite power and data lines, Southwest Microwave’s M.I.L. PAC Relocatable Microwave Detection Sensors are today’s trusted solution. Originally developed for Military applications requiring protection of strategic high-value equipment, personnel and infrastructure, the superior reliability and rapid-deployment capabilities of M.I.L. PAC sensors make them a dominant choice for the utilities and defence industries and a staple for the protection of visiting VIPs and critical mobile assets such as trucks or aircraft.

Available in bi-static or monostatic configuration, these portable K-band outdoor sensors provide extremely high probability of detection with negligible nuisance alarms.  The M.I.L. PAC 316 Microwave Link features 244-metre detection range and 135-hour battery life, and is ideal for operation within narrow corridors. The M.I.L.PAC 385 Microwave Transceiver offers 122-metre detection range, zero range suppression and 103 hours of continuous operation. Patented Range Cut-Off on the transceiver makes this sensor immune to targets beyond a pre-selected range. 

M.I.L. PAC sensors can be used on gates, portals or roadway crossings or to establish a full perimeter of volumetric detection. State-of-the-art circuitry, precise detection pattern and ease of setup with lightweight tripod and tampered external controls provide unmatched versatility. For added flexibility, monitoring is achieved either through a static receiver linked to an alarm panel or via battery-operated receiver.

Aircraft control solutions
With today’s complex, high-volume air traffic flow, aircraft mobility control at the world’s busiest airports has become an increasingly relevant public safety concern. In a traditional scenario, stop-bar warning lights indicate to pilots when to halt or move an aircraft on the tarmac. However, poor visibility, extreme weather conditions or human error can have disastrous – even deadly – effects. Southwest Microwave’s Model 316-33457 Stop Bar Control Sensor allows airport control tower and safety personnel to effectively detect aircraft (or vehicle) movement between taxiway and active runway.

Engineered specifically for applications where external radio frequency (RF) radiation is prevalent, the Model 316-33457 specialty K-band microwave link employs a unique shielded radome for added protection against radio-frequency interference (RFI) from aircraft and airport control systems, radar and other RF-based equipment. Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) protection prevents interference between the sensor’s energy signal and onsite RF-based equipment, making it an exceptional on-ground traffic control solution. 

Narrow band receiver design provides unmatched detection performance by alarming on partial or complete beam interruption, increase or decrease in signal level or jamming by other transmitters. Automatic Gain Control (AGC) allows the receiver to compensate for varying site or environmental conditions.

The sensor’s compact, weatherproof housing withstands harsh temperature and environmental extremes and provides optimal resistance to wind loading. For added nuisance alarm protection in low-temperature or wet environments, a hydrophobic variant is available to prevent the build-up of water, ice or snow on the unit.

Southwest Microwave’s mission is to provide industry-leading system design resources, leading-edge technology options and unparalleled customer support tools to ensure reliable, long-term perimeter detection solutions for the infrastructural, asset and personnel protection challenges of our global client base. 

For more information
For more information or to arrange a demonstration please contact our European subsidiary, Southwest Microwave Ltd., based in Worcestershire, UK. Tel: +44 (0) 1386 75 15 11 or visit www.southwestmicrowave.com