Security Sensors Become Wireless

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Organizations are adopting and upgrading sensors to boost security and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities for defense, homeland security, and border protection. Many engineers are opting for sensors that are free of cables to reap size and weight savings.

“The removal of cable is driving the adoption of wireless sensors,” affirms Francois Pelletier, director of product line marketing at Microsemi in Aliso Viejo, Calif. “They are easier to deploy, there are no holes through walls, and they can be installed in areas it isn’t possible to install cable.”

iHLS – Israel Homeland Security

According to Military & Aerospace, wireless sensors now are cost-effective choices; yet, battery life can be an issue. Some sensors are also hard to reach, making battery replacement difficult and expensive.

“Optimizing the design for very low power to extend the battery life will be more cost effective than using cheaper power-hungry components,” Pelletier adds. “The antenna must be optimized for each product to optimize receive and transmit efficiency and increase range without using more power. Replacing a battery in the field can cost more than the device itself; battery life is everything.”