Benefits of Wide Area Intrusion Detection Systems using FMCW Radar

The history of perimeter protection is based on building fences. That basic concept evolved into detecting activity along the fences using a variety of sensors. Today a wide variety of fiber and wire-based sensors are available to mount on a fence, as well as many different types of IR, radar, optical, seismic and acoustic sensors to place along the fence line. Generally some camera support is provided, with the cameras programmed to point to pre-set locations along the fence. A more robust perimeter protection would consist of wide area sensors with the capability to look out beyond the fence to detect potential intrusion and track intruders to determine their intention. In looking beyond the perimeter, wide area sensors can provide precious time to plan and initiate the appropriate response. In addition, because they sweep a 360-degree circle, the sensors can provide continued tracking of the intrusion even after penetration of the perimeter, greatly enhancing the effectiveness and safety of the response team. The new wide-area concept consists of using modern radar technology for wide area detection of objects which are moving, and then using the precise location information from the radar to point a camera for assessment. Without having to continually stare at a bank of video monitors, the operator is presented with the location, direction of travel and identification and number of potential intruders, all in a matter of seconds. This paper first presents the features of this new wide area system, followed by an overview of radar technology and closes with a discussion on the benefits of the FMCW topology over pulse Doppler in security and surveillance applications.