Southwest Microwave Introduces the Advanced Model 420 Passive Infrared Sensor

Southwest Microwave is pleased to announce the introduction of the advanced Model 420 Passive Infrared (PIR) Sensor for specialized outdoor intrusion detection applications.

With detection capability to 122 m (400 ft), Model 420 provides a four-zone, continuous and gap-free curtain sensing pattern that detects intruders by identifying the temperature (heat radiation) difference between background scene and intruder. The pattern includes long, medium and short range detection segments, plus a controllable Creep Field that protects the area surrounding the mounting pole.

“This unique feature eliminates the detection ‘dead zone’ characteristic of traditional passive infrared sensors,” explained Bob Kirkaldie, Southwest Microwave’s director of sales. “Furthermore, minimal clear zone requirements for the detection pattern make this sensor ideal for intrusion detection in very narrow corridors.”

The latest in detector and signal processing technology plus precision mirror optics enable Model 420 to operate in broad-ranging environmental conditions. The sensor offers Double Optical Filtering, Digital Signal Processing, Signal Shape Analysis and Adaptive Threshold Decoding, each of which contributes to ensuring reliable operation under changing climatic conditions.

“Nuisance alarms from rain, snow, wind, and fog are virtually eliminated due to this product’s highly sophisticated feature set,” said Kirkaldie.

Reinforcing Model 420’s performance reliability is the sensor’s ease of operation. Set-up and adjustment are achieved via user-friendly installation software with flexible controls to simplify alignment, signal check and routine maintenance.

Model 420 electronics and optics are housed in a rugged IP65 heavy-duty plastic enclosure. An internally regulated heater connected to sensor electronics and operating from the supply voltage prevents the unit’s optical surface from fogging or frosting in cold weather. A universal mounting bracket allows mounting to flat surfaces or 100 mm (4 in) O.D. posts.

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