Analyses of performance of volumetric intrusion detection technologies

Two components that may be evaluated when considering the performance of volumetric motion sensors are the likelihood of intruder detection and the likelihood of unwanted alarm rejection. Industry demands effective protection of assets while reducing the susceptibility of detection systems to unnecessary activation. Hence both the likelihood of intruder detection and the likelihood of unwanted alarm rejection need to be maximised to ensure quality performance leading to effective and efficient asset protection. To provide an indication of different volumetric motion sensing technologies' strengths and weaknesses in these areas, investigation has been made into the performances of dual and quad element passive infrared, and dual technology passive infrared/microwave sensors. This was accomplished by practical testing, with theoretical analyses of the outcomes before comparison of specific detectors to allow interpretations about each technology type. Some interpretations do not agree with outcomes predicted from theory or common views within the electronic security industry. Dual technology sensors have indicated superiority in detecting intruders across a broad range of situations while also offering the best performance in rejecting unwanted alarms. Conversely, dual element passive infrared sensors have displayed the least favourable results with regard to the two primary areas of investigation.