Applying masking seals to VXI and VXS Sensors

31 January 2022

In addition to the ability to select different detection range, the OPTEX Infinity and Shield series are provided with masking templates to mask specific detection areas on the sensors view and provide both greater detection customisation and reliability.

The VX Infinity (VXI) and VX Shield (VXS) series provide 90 degree and up to 12m detection range. The pyro-element inside the sensors can be looking straight ahead or rotated to the left or right, and the detection range can be set to five different distances: 2.5m, 3.5m, 6m, 8.5m and 12m.

These features give a significant amount of flexibility to customise the detection area. In addition, the VXI and VXS sensors are provided with masking templates to ignore specific areas that either are not required to be secured or may cause false or nuisance alarms, such as a water feature. By being able to mask that particular area, the reliability of the system is further enhanced.

All VXI and VXS models are supplied with 6 area masking templates. These are labelled 1-6 and correspond with the detection masking in the user manual.

How to choose the correct template

Template 1

This template is made up of 14 smaller masking seals. These are used for individually masking out areas, such as a swaying tree in full foliage in the detection area.

Template 2

This area masking seal masks out the centre of the detection area, leaving an L-shaped area when pointing to the right, and a reverse L-shape when pointing to the left up to 12m range. This template is perfect for masking out areas that are commonly used, or have large numbers of people passing through them. They are also perfect for protecting access to potentially hazardous areas, such as a swimming pool, without being affected by the light reflection on the water.

Template 3

This masking template creates a rectangular detection zone, up to 10m by 5m. This type of masking is useful to protect a parking area or yard and avoid overspill onto a public road for instance.

How to remove the lens and apply the masking tapes: watch the video

The following clip demonstrates how to remove the lens from a VXS sensor and how to apply the masking template on it.

How to put the lens back

Important information regarding the masking seals

It is important to note that when masking your VXI or VXS sensor you only use the masking seals provided with the sensor. If you require additional seals, you can buy these separately from OPTEX or your distributor. Ordinary Sellotape, masking tape or any other tape will activate a masking error (or activate the anti-masking functionality). The OPTEX masking seals have a unique signature that the infrared in the sensor detects and recognises.

To watch the full tutorial that includes a similar masking procedure for the VXI sensor, please visit our YouTube channel.