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Acoustic perimeter detection

Local tech makes acoustic security a winner.

Taking perimeter detection to a new and affordable level, Modular has introduced, AcoustAlert, which is a detection system that manipulates the acoustic properties of piezoelectric cable when installed onto a fence to detect climbing onto or cutting through the fence line. The acoustic or sound signals generated by disturbing the piezoelectric or microphonic cable are fed to Modular’s advanced digital acoustic signal processor (ADASP) which translates the acoustic signals into alarm conditions.

Modular has been pioneering this application with US-based technology partners for the past two years. By combining the functional and cost benefits of the latest developments in both digital audio and networking technologies, it is now possible to implement applications that were previously too expensive and too cumbersome to manage.

The AcoustAlert processor is a dual zone processor that can be connected to microphonic cables of lengths of up to 300 metres per zone. The microphonic cable is attached to existing fence lines that need to be monitored simply by cable ties. The field processor is connected back to a central computer via a LAN connection. Because of the distance normally involved in perimeter protection, this LAN connection is usually a fibre-optic connection.

All field processors are managed from the central computer by the AcoustAlert software front end, written and developed by Modular. With this software, the operator can listen into the fence and can also visually see the signal and noise level on the fence by an active bar graph display on the screen. Alarm conditions are also displayed on a zone by zone basis and because digital audio routing is deployed, it is possible to talk back to any fence zone over the network via remote powered loudspeakers on the fence line.

Various applications for this technology are possible and it is not only limited to fence perimeter detection. AcoustAlert cabling can be installed into or onto building wall and roof elements for the seismic protection of high-security installations like vaults, museums, courts, banks and any place where acoustic detection technology can be deployed.

Cliff Rose of Modular confirms that AcoustAlert, developed by Modular, deploys the latest industry standard for manipulating and networking digital audio over a LAN environment. He says that because of the locally-developed content, the price per metre of an AcoustAlert system is well below imported alternatives, as well as being better priced against electrified fencing options. Continued on-going local development of the product will ensure that software and hardware advancements will be tailored to South African conditions and applications to stay abreast of the criminal knowledge pattern.

Current features of AcoustAlert include:

* 300 metre lengths of detection zones.

* Dual zone processors with dual zone talk back.

* Eight zone processors with POE capabilities.

* Listen-in feature on all detection zones.

* IP checker, which continually ensures processors are online and healthy.

* 10 and 20 zone front-end software suite.

* Adjustable sensitivity controls for different environmental conditions and applications.

Future features of AcoustAlert will include:

* Programmable I/O contacts for external triggering of other security systems, like CCTV.

* Direct CCTV image feed onto AcoustAlert front end.

* End of detection line monitoring.

* Windows7 compatibility.

Rose goes on to say that this technology will be deployed as an early warning system for sites which are monitored by offsite CCTV systems from Modular’s control room in Port Elizabeth.

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