Photoelectric Beam Security Systems

You’ve probably seen photoelectric beam security systems before, most likely in a big Hollywood movie about high class burglary. Photoelectric beam systems transmit light back and forth between two different points. If the individual sensors experience a disruption in the light beam, the security systems will sound the alarm. The light beam can  be any type of light, whether it is visible or infrared. Unlike in Hollywood, it is not very common for most security systems to use intense laser beams. The sensors are usually placed strategically so they form a wall of sensors. It is very important, if you are interested in security systems using photoelectric beams, to arrange the placement of the sensors carefully.

Many seasoned crooks can identify a photoelectric beam transmitter. If they can find a way to walk under, or step over the beam without the risk of detection, your security systems are not optimized to alert you of intruders. Likewise, some burglars may try to confuse the photoelectric beam sensors by shining other lights at the receiving panels. Check to see if the sensors that came with your security systems have a wide range of wavelengths that it detects. The smaller the range, the less likely your system can be sabotaged.

With all these precautions, it may sound like photoelectric beams are not worth adding to your security systems. However, this approach has many benefits. First, unlike many other sensors, photoelectric beams can augment your security systems both indoors and outdoors. As long as the light can be transmitted between the components of the sensors, the sensors can be mounted anywhere. However, animals may trip the sensor when used outdoors, so there’s a higher chance your security systems will send false alarms if you are not careful. Also, since light can travel large distances, photoelectric beams can provide additional security across large areas that would require too many sensors in other security systems.

Usually, all you need are a few sensors around the perimeter to provide ample coverage to an area. As you can see, security systems using photoelectric beams can be excellent in certain situations, and ineffective in others. You may want to consult a security systems expert before deciding whether or not a photoelectric beam detection system is appropriate for your security needs. Photoelectric beam sensors can be very helpful when used in an integrated security systems approach that has several detection methods at its disposal.