Southwest Microwave Expands Capabilities of Model 316 Microwave Sensor

Southwest Microwave will showcase a range of performance enhancements to its INTREPID™ Model 316 Digital Microwave Link at Transport Security Expo in London next month, highlighting the sensor’s expanded intrusion detection capabilities, nuisance alarm resistance and ability to withstand physical and cyber-tampering or environmental extremes.

First introduced over a decade ago and successfully protecting critical infrastructure and assets at many of Europe’s most security-sensitive sites, Model 316 now couples Southwest Microwave’s field-proven RF detection technology with its leading-edge INTREPID embedded digital signal processing (DSP), maximizing the sensor’s ability to discriminate between legitimate intrusion attempts and environmental disturbances or other false targets.

Designed for the protection of fence lines, open areas, gates, entryways and rooftop applications, this advanced, all-weather, CE-rated volumetric sensor has a 122-metre detection range and operates at K-band frequency, enabling detection of slow-moving intruders and limiting susceptibility to interference from external radar or other microwave systems. Unique parabolic dish and antenna design assures superior beam control and predictable Fresnel zones, further enhancing probability of detection (PD) and low nuisance alarm rates (NAR).

“The sophistication of Model 316’s signal processing to classify disturbances positions this sensor as far superior to any other microwave technology on the market today,” explained Martin Lomberg, Southwest Microwave’s European General Manager.

“Features like enhanced crawl or vehicle detection and unique Fresnel suppression algorithms enhance performance in challenging environments, letting the end-user most successfully mitigate risk of site compromise while preventing nuisance alarms.”

Offering maximum protection against sabotage, Model 316 is an ideal detection solution for security-sensitive sites such as critical utilities, correctional facilities or government / military installations. Heavy duty components and packaging, integrated radome tamper switches and optional steel enclosures for external wiring and connections prevent physical abuse. Integrated EMI/RFI shielding protects sensor electronics against external electromagnetic or RF interference.

“To address the needs of our most security sensitive customers, this sensor’s standalone configuration and on-board relay alarm outputs for monitoring of alarms eliminate the risk of hacking or other digital compromise faced by networked devices,” Lomberg explained. 

Model 316 features 6 crystal-controlled, field selectable modulation channels with narrow band filtering, preventing interference between sensors. Units can be dual, triple or quad stacked for ultra-high security applications.

User-friendly Installation Service Tool (IST) software simplifies sensor set-up, and graphically controls and monitors sensor status, control parameters and signal strength with laptop convenience via optically-isolated, surge protected USB-B connection.

“All of our INTREPID solutions offer a unique feature set relative to competing technologies in terms of ease of use, consistently repeatable performance in maximizing intruder detection while minimizing nuisance alarms, and ability to withstand tampering or climatic extremes,” said Lomberg.

“Our enhanced Model 316 is no exception. As a standalone digital sensor with high PD, low NAR and superior protection against physical or digital compromise, it is an exceptional high-security solution for our customers.”

To learn more, visit Transec stand F31 or www.southwestmicrowave.com/model-316