Calibration setup
Page 28
FlexPI Product Guide
Calibration setup
The FlexPI sensor is typically used in sites where the sensor is OFF during business hours, and
ON when the business is closed. In addition, the activity, motion, vibrations, EMI, temperature and
other effects of nearby equipment will vary over time. It is important to consider these changing
factors when calibrating the system. FlexPI should be calibrated under the conditions in which it
will operate (i.e., if nearby machinery will be OFF when the FlexPI is active, the machinery should
be OFF during calibration). If possible, calibrate and test FlexPI for each variation of equipment
operation, and for any other changing environmental conditions. For example, if the sensor will be
close to heating or cooling equipment that turns ON and OFF regularly, ensure that it is tested with
the equipment ON and OFF. A sensor cable mounted on or near a pipe can be calibrated to ignore
the steady flow of fluid through the pipe. However, the additional noise created by the passage of
fluid through a near-empty pipe could cause nuisance alarms.
During calibration:
•
Activate any nearby systems or equipment that create noise or vibrations that will be in
operation when the sensor is active.
•
Disable any nearby systems or equipment that create noise or vibrations, that will not be in
operation while the sensor system is active.
Alarm source simulations
To properly calibrate FlexPI, devise a simulated attack scenario that is a close approximation to
the expected threat, and is suitable for the protected surface. For example, To simulate an impact
attack (Cut Alarm) strike the surface, using moderate to strong force, with a hard object such as
the handle, or blade of a large screwdriver. Wait approximately two seconds between impacts, and
wait about four seconds after each Cut Alarm (to allow the processor’s filters to clear).
To simulate a sustained attack (Climb Alarm) on a hard surface (e.g., brick, cinder block, concrete,
stone, etc.) press the head of a spinning masonry drill against the surface. For other mounting
surfaces (e.g., security cages, drywall, plaster, wood, etc.) use a large screwdriver with a hard,
grooved handle. Hold the handle firmly against the surface, and rotate the screwdriver. Wait
approximately four seconds after each Climb Alarm (to allow the processor’s filters to clear).
Monitoring nuisance alarm sources
For an indoor sensor, the most common sources of nuisance alarms are the equipment and
machinery inside the building, and the weather conditions outside the building. If machinery and
equipment turn ON and OFF while the FlexPI is active, the accompanying vibrations can affect the
sensor. Extreme weather conditions such as strong winds, heavy rain and hail, can also affect the
sensor (especially when the sensor is used to protect roofs and exterior walls). You can monitor
the effects of machinery and equipment by turning it ON for a period and then OFF with the sensor
active (running a UCM Response plot is recommended as an aid to analyzing the effects of the
equipment). Monitoring weather effects can also be accomplished by running a UCM Response
plot during periods of inclement weather, while the FlexPI system is active.
Note
Ensure that the type of alarm simulation being used cannot damage
the protected surface during the tests.
