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How Do Outside Beams Work?

Published in Outdoor Security Sensors 3 mins read

Outside beams work by detecting movement outdoors using weatherproof infrared technology, similar to indoor passive detectors.

Outside beams are a type of security sensor designed specifically for external use. Based on the provided information, their fundamental operation involves the detection of movement using infrared technology.

Key Characteristics and Operation:

  • Technology: They are primarily weatherproof infrared detectors. This means they utilize infrared light to sense activity in their designated area and are built to withstand outdoor environmental conditions like rain, wind, or temperature changes.
  • Mounting: Outside beams are typically mounted externally, often installed on building walls. This allows them to monitor the perimeter or specific outdoor zones.
  • Detection Principle: Similar to indoor passive infrared (PIR) sensors, these outdoor beams are designed to detect movement. While the exact mechanism isn't detailed, infrared motion detection typically involves sensing changes in heat signatures or the disruption of an infrared field caused by a moving object.
  • Coverage: They have a defined detection range, capable of sensing movement up to ten metres away. They also cover a specific area, operating within a 90° angular range.

How They Work in Practice:

Imagine an outside beam installed on a wall overlooking a garden path. The beam constantly monitors its detection zone (up to 10 meters out and within a 90-degree sweep). When something moves within this zone, causing a change in the infrared energy detected by the sensor, the beam triggers an alert. This alert is typically sent to a connected security system panel, which can then activate an alarm, lights, or send a notification.

They function as a crucial first line of defence, detecting potential intruders before they reach the building itself, providing an early warning.

Summary of Features:

Feature Description
Type Weatherproof Infrared Detector
Location Mounted Externally on Walls
Detection Method Detects Movement using Infrared (similar to indoor PIRs)
Range Up to 10 metres
Coverage Angle 90°

In essence, outside beams leverage weatherproof infrared sensing to create a monitored perimeter or area around a property, alerting users or security systems to detected movement within their specific range and angle.

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