Takex Beam Sensors - Early Warning Solutions for Security Systems
11/07/2024 Neil Levett 1062
Traditional security measures such as alarms systems and CCTV cameras provide excellent security for would-be intruders gaining access to your property, but can't always detect when an intruder first begins to trespass on the grounds.
Takex optical beam sensors represent a cutting-edge technology in the field of perimeter security and are regarded as some of the most accurate and reliable detectors in the world. These sensors utilize infrared beams to detect any interruption in the line of sight between the transmitter and receiver units.
Takex's advanced optical beam sensors are known for their high precision and reliability, making them ideal for applications where accurate and instantaneous detection is critical. Whether deployed in outdoor security systems, warehouses, or industrial facilities, Takex optical beam sensors excel in providing robust and dependable intrusion detection.
How Do They Work?
Photelectric Beam Sensors are comprised of two units, a torch (transmitter) and an eye (receiver). The torch sends out Infrared beams to the receiver which creates an invisible circuit. The beam is basically a switch, so the user can choose what they would like to happen once the beam is broken. It can be connected to an alarm system to send out an alert, or it could simply sound a doorbell or switch on a light.
Different Types of Beams
Twin Beams
Twin beams are the most common type and are suitable for most standard installations. The torch sends out 2 beams to the eye, both of which need to be broken to generate an activation. The line of protection between the 2 units is 7cm high and 3cm wide.
Reflector Beams
Reflector beams are similar to twin beams with one major difference. They do not have an 'eye' receiver unit. Instead they have a simple reflector unit that acts as a mirror to bounce the beam back to the torch. They are ideal for installations where it is difficult to get power to both units, across a road for instance, but they do tend to have a shorter detection range than other beam sensors. This is because the light has to travel to the reflector and back again, instead of just travelling to the receiver.
Considerations also need to be made with regards to the locations of these types of beams. The reflector unit is not powered and does not generate any heat of its own. This can make them susceptible to condensation or frost which will reduce the effectiveness or may stop the unit working altogether.
Quad Beams
Quad beams work the same way as twin beams, but as their names suggests, they utilise 4 beams instead of 2. The greater number of beams provides a larger protection area, 33cm high and 4.5cm wide, and cuts down false alarms caused by animals or falling leaves.
Factors to Take Into Account
When choosing the correct beam for the job, there are a number of considerations that should be taken into account to ensure that the correct product is selected...
Distance
The main consideration when choosing a beam sensor is the distance the beam needs to cover. Takex offer a large range beam sensors that cover a variety of distances that are suitable for almost any standard install. When using the beam sensor indoors, the maximum effective distance will be doubled due to the lack of outside interference.
As mentioned above, reflector beams tend to have a short detection range because the beam has to travel both to the receiver and back to the transmitter, instead of just to the receiver.
Where will it be installed?
Beam sensors can have a wide ranging host of applications, but when fitted outdoors, the environment is a big factor to be considered. The beam requires a clear, unbroken line of sight between the transmitter and receiver, and factors such as vegetation, wildlife and weather all need to be taken into account. Is the vegetation regularly managed? Is it near a water source & prone to mist or fog? Are there major dips or peaks in the detection zone?
Coverage
The number of beams required will be entirely dependent on the requirements of the job. For a simple system that sounds an alert when a customer walks into a shop, a reflector beam with 5 metre coverage would be sufficient. For a job protecting the lead on a church roof, a greater number of beams would be required, and they would need to be more significantly more powerful. It is possible to add different types of beam to the same system, allowing for maximum coverage in all areas.
Power
Standard beam sensors require a power supply for both the transmitter and the receiver. This is usually achieved by running a power cable to both units. This isn't always practical, especially when the beam sensor is over a road or a driveway where a power supply is only available on one side, and running a cable under the tarmac isn't an option. Takex tackle this problem with their range of reflector and battery powered beam sensor.
Where Can I Buy Takex Beam Sensors?
Connectec stock a large range of Takex twin beam, quad beam and reflector beam sensors. If you are unsure of the best beam sensor to suit your requirements, why not get in contact and speak to one of our specialists today.
About Neil Levett
Neil is head of Connetec's marketing team. Neil loves art and music and is always looking for his next adventure.
