printer friendly version

Creating a sensation with sensor

This year Elvey Security Technologies celebrates 60 years of excellence. The Elvey philosophy has been based upon quality products backed by service excellence. Therefore, the company has strategically aligned itself with manufacturers renowned worldwide for the creation of fundamental security solutions designed to give complete peace of mind.

Elvey proudly shares a 20-year relationship with Optex, Japan-based manufacturers of technology offering reliable and effective detection methods. Kenny Chiu, marketing manager of Elvey Security Technologies, recently chatted to Takashi Nakamura (senior sales manager, Optex) and Shingo Okawa (head of research and development, Optex) about the worldwide growth of Optex and what the future holds in terms of detection technology.

How does Optex respond to the worldwide increase in demand for security?

"Optex has developed extensive research and development programmes which are administered consistently in both domestic and foreign security markets. Since the company was founded in 1979, it has focused on optimising manufacturing locations to provide the right products for key markets. Optex's overseas activities accounting for 60% of the company's total sales.

As the global demand for security increases, more and more people recognise the value of outdoor crime prevention systems which rely on high-performance visual monitoring mechanisms and early detection of intruders."

What is the philosophy behind product research and development at Optex?

"Early warning detection is our philosophy. We recommend not only securing the inside of the building but also adding surveillance to the perimeter and boundary of the property. We have developed a system of enhanced outdoor surveillance that is capable of forestalling unauthorised entry into a building. By integrating outdoor and indoor surveillance, this system creates a defence line incorporating three warning levels targeting the perimeter of the property, the boundary of the building, and the indoor area. As a result, we can greatly strengthen and improve crime prevention.

Optex believes that there is no single standard detector that is suitable for all security applications. We are customer driven and thus, we regard customisation as the most important consideration in the process of product development. We customise our products to suit the different markets. It is for this reason that we have developed over 50 types of detectors ranging from indoor PIR detectors to digital outdoor beams.

Environmental factors, however, remain the key to the success/failure of a detector and we are working closely with distributors to understand the different environmental conditions in other countries, for example, improved resistance to combat severe lightning storms in Gauteng is one of the main features of the new AX-Series."

Optex has had its footprint in South Africa since 1986, what changes do you see in the security industry in RSA?

"The South African market openly embraces new product innovations and constantly strives toward obtaining products with reliable performance. Since the launch of the world's first digital photoelectric detector by Optex in South Africa last year it has been widely accepted by the market. South Africans recognise the advance in technology and embrace it. Feedback suggests that the South African market identifies the beam as one of the most reliable active beam detectors in the market today and is widely installed in mines, utility plants and game farms.

There are many inexpensive security devices in the market today. Professional security service providers recognise that if the system makes a false or missed alarm, unnecessary dispatch is required, leading to unnecessary expenses being incurred. Thus, stakeholders are inclined to select reliable devices, which reduce their total operation cost in the long run and build a reputation of being a responsible security service provider.

Furthermore, Optex cannot progress without the support attained from our distributors. Elvey has a vast knowledge of the African markets. Combined with its extensive network of sales channels and well-structured support services, Elvey has assisted Optex in understanding the different markets."

What are the future plans of Optex in terms of product development and its vision in Africa?

"We endeavour to contribute to society by creating a safe, secure and comfortable environment for all. We look at the various reservations and difficulties faced by companies and people across industries and everyday life and propose ways to solve these insecurities through original approaches and proven technological methods.

Early warning detection systems with the use of perimeter and boundary protection will continue to be our focus. This is particularly important in Africa where there are many farms and where dwellings are usually large in area. Thus, early warning detection systems help avoid unnecessary confrontation with criminals."

Share this article:

Further reading: