TEMPE, Ariz., 23 June 2008. Southwest Microwave released its Model 310B-33456 Explosionproof Outdoor Microwave Intrusion Link to for use in the presence of flammable, combustible, and easily ignitable materials.
The sensor, which features a 328-foot detection range, is designed to operate at oil refineries, chemical and petrochemical plants, petroleum or chemical storage facilities, and other sites where hazardous materials are handled, processed, or stored.
"During the past year we have seen a significant increase in perimeter intrusion detection interest for applications in and around explosive environments," says Tom Wallace, sales manager at Southwest Microwave. "Because microwave performance is unaffected by vibration, wind, fog, rain, snow, dust, or temperature extremes this sensor becomes an extremely effective option."
Transmitter and receiver components are housed in weatherproof, explosion-proof enclosures which meet ratings required for hazardous areas. LED indicators and convenient front accessibility to controls and test points simplify sensor set-up and servicing, Southwest Microwave officials say.
The Model 310B-33456 will alarm on a 77 lb (35 kg) target walking, running, jumping, rolling, or crawling through the detection pattern. Field-changeable antenna elements enable pattern adjustment for larger or smaller targets, depending on individual site requirements.
Operating at K-Band (24.125 Ghz) frequency, the Model 310B-33456 achieves performance not possible with X-Band (10.5 Ghz) microwave links. "K-Band frequency allows this sensor to operate at very long ranges and within very narrow corridors, which gives it tremendous flexibility," Wallace says.
Since K-Band frequency is 2.5 times higher than X-Band, the multipath signal generated by an intruder is also 2.5 times higher, vastly improving detection of slow and fast-moving targets. K-Band sensors are also less susceptible to interference from airport landing systems and air or sea craft radar.
"Many refineries and petrochemical plants are located along waterways or in coastal areas. K-band provides immunity to marine and seaport RF interference, which makes it highly reliable," Wallace notes.
Four field-selectable modulation channels with narrow band PLL filters enable multiple Model 310B-33456 links to be used in close proximity without mutual interference. Automatic Gain Control (AGC) allows the receiver to compensate for varying site conditions.
For more information, please visit www.southwestmicrowave.com or call 480-783-0201.
