Fibre optic sensor system for integrated perimeter protection

The paper describes a novel fibre optic sensor system for use within an integrated perimeter protection system. This system is under continuous development at GEC-Marconi and is called FOPIDS (Fibre Optic Perimeter Intruder Detection System). The main technical, operational and market aspects are presented, including results from recent trials and demonstrations. The system is presented as having a dual role, that of a perimeter intrusion detector and also as a data highway. Several practical considerations are discussed, including the processing of the sensor outputs, the sensor installation and cost considerations.