One crucial element of avoiding interruptions in critical infrastructure operations is the protection of the facility perimeter, a safeguard against potential thieves after copper, catalytic converters or chemicals, or would-be vandals hoping to damage equipment or cause an interruption in operations. Technologies, such as ground-based radar, are increasingly being used by critical infrastructure facilities as part of their perimeter security strategy because of modern radar’s strengths even in the harshest environmental or geographically remote conditions. When radar is combined with surveillance, this creates a powerful solution that provides actionable intelligence and the ability to respond to a threat quickly and accurately.
Let’s take a look at four reasons why a combined radar and video surveillance solution is well-suited for critical infrastructure perimeter protection:
Combine Radar + AI to produce intelligent results
New solutions that combine radars, PTZ cameras, and AI-enabled software can provide pinpoint accuracy in the detection, classification, and tracking of a potential target. Magos Systems is proud to partner with Axis Communications in providing a critical infrastructure solution consisting of the Magos MASS+AI solution and Axis PTZ cameras, such as the Axis Q Series. The joint solution leverages the strength of the Magos radar / MASS+AI software solution (detection and classification) with Axis PTZ technology that features long-range, optimized IR of more than 600 feet for visibility even at great distances.
The Magos radar / Axis PTZ solution enables early detection and classification of a potential target detected in defined coverage zones. Once the Magos radar units detect a potential threat, the integrated Axis PTZ camera slews to cue producing clear images regardless of conditions and enabling the MASS+AI software to classify the detected object as human, animal, vehicle, vessel, etc. This classification provides valuable information and alerts on the threat that staff can use to initiate the appropriate response. Because this approach requires a high level of PTZ speed and accuracy, the Axis Q Series PTZ cameras - with Axis Autotracking 2 and orientation aid technology - can quickly auto-focus while tracking moving targets, particularly in low-light scenarios.
Take a layered approach to perimeter security
Technology partners with established relationships and broad portfolios can provide security departments with confidence in technological compatibility, both now and in the future. Products from major manufacturers can be integrated using interoperability standards such as ONVIF, or via custom drivers that provide deep integrations between a variety of models. This maximizes flexibility in product selection for end users, enabling the combination of short, mid, and long-range technologies for a layered approach to detection in challenging situations, providing a better total solution for the end user.
For example, long-range Magos radars, such as the SR-500 (with a human detection range of 400m and vehicle range of 600m) or the SR-1000 (human – 800m, vehicle - 1,000m) can provide outer perimeter, long-range coverage. Shorter range models, such as the Axis D2110-VE (human – 60m, vehicles - 85m) can help to secure inner perimeter circles or provide a crucial gap filler in areas where long-range radar detection might be interrupted, as well as provide interoperability with Axis network horn speakers or cameras for additional notification methods. These combined Axis / Magos radar perimeter detection solutions can provide multiple layers of detection in challenging situations.
Invest in a cost-effective solution
Not every critical infrastructure facility has an unlimited budget for perimeter protection when they must also factor in other security expenditures, such as CCTV coverage inside and outside of buildings and security officers to tour the grounds. On average, a Magos radar deployed with a PTZ camera, such as the Axis Q6315 or Q6215 can replace as many as 20 fixed cameras that rely on visual detection alone. This can translate to significant cost savings when considering the infrastructure requirements of large perimeter camera deployments — cameras, poles, cabling and communications, and power infrastructure. Radar / PTZ installations also boast a very high degree of detection and classification reliability, which can also significantly reduce manpower and other associated costs due to nuisance and false alarms.
Consider vendors with experience in the critical infrastructure space
Providing hardware that is designed for the challenging physical needs of critical infrastructure is only one aspect of servicing this sector. Companies with domain expertise already know of the importance of maintaining buffer zones outside the exterior of a fence, security considerations for the storage of specialty chemicals, or other restrictions for hazardous areas. These providers are also more likely to invest in new product development for critical environments and offer education, training, and other resources to their channel partners, a reflection of a commitment to this space.
The rigorous requirements of critical infrastructure entities demand technologies and partners that can anticipate and meet the challenges of this sector. It’s important to leverage the natural synergies between radar with surveillance to create a comprehensive perimeter security solution that can respond to virtually any threat.
