31 August 2023 - Lara Velasco
Featured in: Market Insights, Intrusion detection
Gardens are appealing targets for theft due to valuable items such as bikes, tools, and furniture often left exposed. The serene seclusion of gardens can attract burglars seeking hidden entry points into the property. Outdoor intrusion detection technologies have become a standard solution for not only detecting early attempted intrusions into a building, but also to protect its surroundings and prevent theft or damage to the furniture and valuables that are kept in gardens and on patios.
Gardens come in all shapes and sizes, and often include a wide variety of spaces, from corridor-like areas at the sides of the house to large open landscaped spaces, and of course the perimeter itself. The selection of the most appropriate detection technology is determined by a number of variables, including the potential threats, as well as the shape and size of the space to be protected.
Safeguarding boundaries
One of the primary challenges in garden security is securing the perimeter. A garden's boundaries are often porous, with natural elements like shrubs and trees that can serve as hiding spots for potential intruders. Traditional fencing alone may not suffice in deterring determined intruders. This is where intrusion detection technology comes into play.
By installing Infra-red beams at strategic points along the garden's edges, homeowners can effectively fortify their property against unauthorized access. Sensors such as the SL Series and AX Series are designed to be mounted on top of a fence or on poles along the perimeter line, creating an invisible shield around the garden's perimeter. When an intrusion is detected, the sensor triggers an immediate response, which could include activating lights, sounding alarms, or even sending notifications to the homeowner's smartphone.
Detection in open areas
For protection of regular and large open spaces the 180 degree panoramic sensors are perfect as they cover a larger detection area (typically up to 12m radius) reducing the total number of sensors required for the project. In essence they work like two 90 degree sensors and have independent left/right configuration allowing adjustments to be made to suit the area, for instance, avoiding vegetation or other obstacles in the garden.
If the space to be protected is large but uneven, such as sloping or hillside gardens, high-mount sensors (commonly installed between 2m and 2.5m) are the most suitable option. Other spaces where these sensors are appropriate are where there is garden furniture, sports equipment, playground equipment or other structures that would hinder the detection of a sensor mounted at 1.2m. A high-mount sensor has the advantage of aesthetic discretion and protection against vandalism by being at a height where it is difficult to sabotage.
Protection around buildings and garden sheds
For corners or more enclosed spaces such those next to the house or shed, 90-degree sensors are a perfect solution as they can provide a custom detection area. One of the standout features of all our outdoor sensors is the unique OPTEX SMDA logic, which allows them to offer a very stable and reliable performance; they are effective at ignoring common causes of false alarms, such as small animals or disturbances caused by natural elements like wind and rain.
Long and narrow spaces must also be considered as they could provide a perfect hiding spot for intruders. High-mount sensors that create volumetric protection corridors are ideal for these spaces; some models can protect up to a distance of 24m long x 2m wide with a single sensor.
High security homes
For private residences or VIP homes requiring very high levels of security, LiDAR technology installed in horizontal mode can protect a large area by creating a virtual horizontal panel around the home. The laser sensor constantly scans the detection area and provides very accurate information of all detected objects, allowing security personnel to track the movement of intruders and know exactly where they are. Using the size information provided by the laser sensor, the system can be configured to detect only objects smaller or larger than a defined size, for example, ignoring pets and detecting people. The detection field can be custom configured to protect, for example, a swimming pool, and alert if someone or some object has fallen in outside the set timetable.
Integration and smart monitoring
OPTEX sensors are not isolated devices; they can seamlessly integrate with other security systems to create a comprehensive security network. Our sensors can be connected to control panels or integrated into smart home automation platform.
All OPTEX sensors can also be integrated with CHeKT Cloud monitoring to create a comprehensive security system with cameras, sensors and other third-party devices, with full privacy features and multi-user functionality, allowing homeowners to enjoy the ease of professional monitoring, or set up a self-monitored system.
Conclusion
Every home and every space is different, so there is no single use guide when designing a garden security system; it is necessary to analyse on a case-by-case basis, assessing the environment, identifying threats and vulnerabilities. At OPTEX, we have extensive experience as leaders in external intrusion detectors and offer a wide range of solutions to provide a holistic approach to garden security. We believe the harmony between natural beauty and technological innovation can be maintained, ensuring that gardens remain serene havens while also being safeguarded by the latest and most effective security technology.
