Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) is a groundbreaking technology that transforms standard optical fibers into an extensive array of highly sensitive acoustic sensors. By leveraging existing fiber-optic cables, DAS provides continuous, real-time acoustic data over extensive distances, offering unmatched precision and reliability. This article delves into the intricate workings of DAS, its diverse applications, and its numerous advantages, illustrating why it stands at the forefront of modern sensing technologies.
The RaySense fiber optic security system usually includes sensor cable in the length of choice, End line unit and laser unit/Server (APU). Other accessories are optional and needed to be added separately.
The Maximum length is 100km/62mile but the RaySense family of products is sold in 1 or 2 channels and each channel can monitor 5km/3.1 miles to 100km/62mi.
In order to cover a longer perimeter, multiple systems (APUs) can be combined to cover the whole perimeter line.
If the fiber optic sensor cable gets cut, an alarm will trigger in the exact location of the cut or fault. The RaySense DAS system would detect up to the cut location as well. If installed in a 2-channel redundant cut-resistant configuration, no loss of signal or detection will happen with a single cut.
Detection performance and detection accuracy are ±3 m (10 ft) on standard chain link fences. Two disturbances must be separated by a minimum of 20 meters (65 feet) to be reported separately because vibrations on the fence can travel sideways and affect a larger area of the cable.
Sure! The RaySense artificial intelligence (AI) is doing most of the work! But in case fine tuning is needed, there are options to set up software assignable and adjustable zones. Each zone can have its own sensitivity and detection characters.
The RaySense is a highly sophisticated system that can detect and analyze very long cables. A certified technician would have to perform a calibration process to adjust the system performance to each site.
The way the RaySense system works: Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) sensors “listen” to the cable acoustics and are able to determine by comparing the signal to a large database of signatures as of what the acoustic signature looks like such as cut, climb, digging, vehicle and more.
Vibrations caused by wind, rain and small animals are usually not be picked up by the system as they don’t match the database of acoustic signatures we would like to detect.
The RaySense system operates by monitoring a standard single-mode fiber optic cable. Although it is theoretically possible to monitor any fiber optic cable, for security purposes, it is highly recommended to use the RBtec special cable, which is specifically designed for outdoor, direct burial, and security applications. However, in situations where the customer already possesses a fiber optic cable and no other alternative is available, it is still possible to use it.
Yes! Like any fiber optic cable the RaySense cable can be repaired by a fusion splicing.