Omnitrax ranging leaky coaxial cable sensor technology update

The OmniTrax® leaky coaxial cable perimeter intrusion detection system was first introduced at the 2004 International Carnahan Conference [1]. This sensor evolved from the technology of “GUIDAR” pioneered in the 1970's to bring intrusion location to perimeter sensors. OmniTrax theory of operation, based on a unique application of new Ultra Wideband Radar was described, as well as its feature of allowing pinpoint location of intrusions along 800m of sensor cable using a single processor. This feature is fundamentally important to direct the response force, and also for rapid debug and maintenance of the installation. Since that first presentation the sensor has been fully realized as one of the most cost-effective ranging perimeter sensors with its own integrated power and communications network. It has also been evaluated for both detection and environmental performance at our own local test site (SITE), and at independent government sensor test agencies. Further components of the technology have been developed to enlarge the range of site applications. This paper provides an update on the technology and its application including some new applications for leaky coaxial cable technology. One such new application has been selected for more detailed discussion in the paper entitled “A Rapid Deployment Guided Radar Sensor” that also appears in these proceedings.