FAQ IRONCLAD Fence Sensor
Where do I connect the IRONCLAD system?
Connecting IRONCLAD is straightforward. Each LPU analyzer/processor provides 2 or 4 dry-contact relay alarm outputs (NO/NC), one per zone. Because they’re standard dry-contact outputs, they work with virtually any system you may already have: alarm panels, CCTV, access control, sirens, strobe lights, even fire alarms. In other words, IRONCLAD fits into your existing setup rather than forcing you to replace it.
What length of fence can I protect with the IRONCLAD?
Whatever the size of your perimeter, IRONCLAD scales to fit. The sensor cable comes in spools of 250 ft (75 m), 500 ft (150 m), and 1000 ft (300 m). Each processor monitors up to 2 zones, so a single kit covers up to 2000 ft (600 m), and for larger sites, multiple kits simply combine to protect the entire fence line. From a single gate to miles of perimeter, the system grows with your needs.
Can I adjust the sensitivity of the IRONCLAD Fence Alarm System?
Yes, and it’s easy. You can fine-tune sensitivity right on the LPU (Local Processor Unit) across 20 levels, or through the calibration software across 500 levels, so the system is dialed in precisely to your fence and environment. No special tools and no technical background required; if your needs change, you can simply readjust.
Does the system need any calibration before I can use it?
No. IRONCLAD does the hard part for you. It automatically self-calibrates a baseline, and from there you only set the sensitivity you want. It’s a true plug-and-play system: connect power, sensor inputs, and relay outputs, and you’re protected.
Can wind or rain cause false alarms?
No. The IRONCLAD detects only the sharp, high-frequency vibrations generated by cutting, climbing, or jumping a fence. Wind, rain, and small animals typically produce long-wave, low-frequency vibrations that the system ignores. It’s the difference between someone climbing the fence (detected) and the wind pushing on it (not detected). An optional weather station can also feed the analyzer real-time weather data to compensate for wind and rain, giving an even higher level of false-alarm filtering.
What types of fences is the IRONCLAD compatible with?
The IRONCLAD works with most fence types, including chain link, welded mesh, and palisade. For the best results, the fence should be in good condition: intact, straight, under tension, and free of obstructions. If you have a rigid metal fence, we’ve got you covered there too with the MICALERT Microphonic Rigid Fence Sensor Cable.
What should I do if I encounter false alarms or system noise?
Don’t worry, this is almost always an easy fix. Start by confirming the sensor cable is installed snugly with no slack or air gaps, check for any loose connections, keep the fence clear of external noise sources, and add a ground to the negative of the DC power. From there you can fine-tune the sensitivity. And if anything still isn’t right, our team is happy to help you get it sorted.
Where can I buy the IRONCLAD fence-mounted sensor, and how do I choose the right parts?
Choosing the right parts is simpler than it looks, and you won’t have to guess. Our code tables, the Site & System Design Manual, and our team are all here to help you put together exactly the right kit for your fence.
Can the cable be installed on a sliding or swing gate?
Protection of an emergency gate or rarely used can be done by using the gate connector (sold separately), the connector will be connected to the cable at the opening point of the gate to allow the gate to be opened or closed. It’s not recommended to use this connection on often used gates.
A single or double swing gate is protected in the same method.
The sensor cable is looped on the gate, then connected to a junction box RB-RBMCTXT and spliced with an RG6 direct burial to go under the gate, on the other end, it is spliced back to a sensor cable and looped on the other side of the gate.
On the hinges, enough sensors need to be left to allow it to move freely with the gate opening and closing so the cable won’t stretch or bend sharply.
Sliding gates can be treated in 2 ways
1. Bypass the gate and put a motion sensor across the gate to protect the crossing.
2. Use the RBtec sliding gate kit. A sliding gate is designed for light to medium traffic gates. Heavily used gates with hundreds of openings a day must be protected with another technology, such as a camera or motion sensor.
Video showing the Operation of the Sliding Gate Kit
How long does it take to install the IRONCLAD on a fence?
Installation is quick and predictable: typically about 1 hour per 300 ft (100 m) of cable. Following the step-by-step installation guide makes the process simple and ensures everything performs as it should. Log in to download the IRONCLAD Installation Manual
Can the cable be shortened/cut/spliced?
Yes, the cable is flexible to your fence, not the other way around. While it’s sold in fixed spool lengths, you can cut it to any length you need. It’s a simple 2-conductor copper wire, so customizing the run to your site is easy.
Do I need a different cable to bypass a gate?
Not at all. If you’d prefer to bypass a gate entirely instead of using the RBtec gate connector, you can simply run direct-burial RG6 as a non-sensitive conduit through that section. It’s a clean, simple solution.
If the cable gets cut, can it be repaired?
Absolutely, and it takes only about 30 seconds. RBtec’s repair kit (RB-RBMCTXT) bridges the cut in a fully weatherproof way, so performance is maintained. The repair box installs right at the cut point, the sensor cable connects to screw terminals on each side, and your system is back up and running with no need to replace the whole run.
Still have questions?
Explore our Security Solutions page or contact us at +1 (301) 760-4016. Our dedicated team is ready to help you with all your security needs, discreetly and professionally.
Basic Guide to Troubleshooting False Alarms in IRONCLAD Security Systems
Many times, false alarms in security systems like IRONCLAD are not merely due to sensitivity settings but are often caused by technical issues with the system or its surroundings. Lowering the sensitivity frequently doesn’t solve the underlying issue but merely masks it. Therefore, it’s crucial to systematically investigate and address potential technical and environmental factors contributing to false alarms.
Ensure the fence is in good condition – fully intact, straight, under tension, and free of obstructions. Loose signs or debris can cause false alarms.
Verify the sensor cable is properly installed – it should be attached mid-height, run parallel to the ground, and have no slack. Ensure ties are secure but not over-tightened.
Look for any damaged or loosely connected sections of the sensor cable. Ensure all end-of-line terminations are correctly installed as per the manual.
Disconnect the sensor wire from the LPU and measure its resistance. The proper resistance should match the end-of-line resistor, which is typically 1M ohm. A discrepancy indicates issues with the sensor wire or connections.
Check if the sensor sensitivity is set appropriately. Overly sensitive settings can lead to false alarms. Use the LPU-400 calibration software to adjust if necessary.
Check the power source for noise. Ground the negative of the DC voltage to eliminate noise from the power source. If this doesn’t resolve the issue, test the system with a 12V DC battery. If using a battery solves the problem, consider permanently grounding or replacing the power supply.
Assess the fence’s surroundings for elements that could trigger false alarms, such as loose signs, items hitting the fence during windy conditions, metal-to-metal rattling, heavy branches slapping the fence, loose barb wires, cables, or any other items hung on or near the fence. These factors can physically interact with the fence and contribute to false alarms, especially in adverse weather conditions.
Conduct regular system tests to ensure proper operation and adjust sensitivity levels as needed.
This comprehensive approach should effectively help you identify and address the source of false alarms in your IRONCLAD system.