23 Sep 2011
The D21 Disturbance Sensor is offered as part of the Gallagher perimeter security solution
The sensor can measure and analyse the impact on the security fence when disturbed

The first installation of the Gallagher D21 Sensors at a correctional facility in Indiana, USA has been completed successfully.

The D21 Disturbance Sensor, which is offered as part of the Gallagher perimeter security solution, can measure and analyze the impact on the security fence when disturbed. The sensor only proceeds to signal an alarm event when certain limits are exceeded, preventing any nuisance or "false" alarms caused by wind or rain, for example. 

When Gallagher certified channel partner Security Automation Systems, Inc was approached by the Indiana Department of Correction to propose a perimeter detection system, the D21 disturbance sensors were proposed for two primary reasons.

"First, the D21 sensors integrate seamlessly with the Gallagher Command Centre software, which was a key factor in the decision process.  We were already integrating non-lethal electric fencing, door control and video systems with Command Centre and the state preferred not to add another, separate system.  The second reason we chose the D21 sensors was cost.  Compared to other technologies considered by the state the D21 sensors were the most cost-effective solution," says Ryan Tomlinson from Security Automation Systems.

Mr Tomlinson had confidence in Gallagher and its products to carry out the job successfully. "Although this was to be our first installation of the D21 product, we were confident that between the technical ability of our staff and the support from Gallagher, we would be able to provide a successful installation," he says. "The D21 sensors were simple to install.  They easily mounted to fence posts and other structures the system was monitoring and installing the communications backbone was low-cost and straightforward."

"After the initial process of setting the address of each sensor, we were able to power-up each new zone of sensors and get them on-line with the Gallagher Controller 6000s.  Next, we were able to individually adjust the parameters of each sensor, and monitor real-time data in Command Centre according to the particular characteristics of the structure the sensor was affixed to.  Overall, I was impressed with the ease of installation, the adjustability of the sensors and how well the sensors integrate with the Command Centre software."

Approximately 1000 feet of interior chain link fence around the facility's administration building was successfully protected with the cost-effective, yet highly secure perimeter security solutions offered by Gallagher.