Infra-Red Sensor Technology Corp Lighting Up the Security Sector

Infra-Red Sensor Technology Corp., Taiwan's No. 1 supplier of digital infrared sensors for security systems, recently rolled out three new models-the LC900, LC901, and LC502A--all of which are activated by the firm's in-house-designed "Digital Passive Infra Red Module".

The LC900 and LC9001 are designed for bathrooms and entranceways. The LC502A is ideal for outdoor security monitoring.

The LC900 is composed of a control module and a 30W circular fluorescent lamp, while the LC901 uses a control module and a 30W compact fluorescent lamp. Both models have a maximum detection distance of six meters and a sensing angle of 180 degrees. Both systems can be set to have lights automatically come on for five seconds, 30 seconds, one minute, or three minutes when moving objects are detected. In addition, sensing mode can be preset for activation at nighttime, daytime, and dusk.

The LC502A is comprised of two sensors and a 50W halogen light. Each sensor can move horizontally 90 degrees and vertically 90 degrees. The two have a maximum horizontal detection angle of 180 degrees and vertical angle of 90 degrees, making the lighting system well suited to security monitoring systems. The LC502A's maximum detection distance is 12 meters. The twin-sensor design is only seen in Infra-Red's system.

All of these lighting systems are equipped with the company's LA-200 sensor mechanism. The device is only 1.7cm in diameter, allowing it to be housed in any lighting fixture whether for outdoor or indoor use. The device incorporates the company's "Digital Passive Infra Red Module" technology, making it an effective electricity-conservation mechanism because lights are activated only when moving objects are detected.

The module is unique in that it can be used on both fluorescent lamps and incandescent lamps. "Analog-type sensor systems are not able to activate the starters on fluorescent lamps, though they perform well with incandescent lamps," says company general manager Hsing Yen-hua.

Digital controllers also have other advantages over analog devices, including greater power efficiency. Most analog models consume 50 to 100 milliamperes in standby mode, while digital sensors use only five to 10 mA in this state, reports Hsing.

The technology used in Infra-Red Sensor's digital sensor was developed based on the company's decade of experience in the security-sensor business. By using digital technology, Infra-Red Sensor can cram all mechanisms and circuitry onto a module board measuring 4cm x 4cm. The module board controls on/off light functions with two circuits. Analog models use three circuits and are built using larger modules, making them too big for some lighting systems.

The company has invested in a factory in Ningbo, mainland China to make its sensors for outdoor lamps, which are destined for overseas markets. Its head factory in Taiwan is in charge of design and production of the devices for its indoor lamps and security lamps sold in Taiwan. Exports and domestic sales currently account for 80% and 20% of the company's revenue, respectively.

Infra-Red supplies its lighting systems under its brand name "AllView" and "Infra-Red." It also supplies sensors to lighting-fixture manufacturers on an OEM (original equipment manufacturing) basis.

The company plans to demonstrate its latest systems at the Light + Buildings Fair in Frankfurt, Germany next year.

For more information, please contact the company at: 11th Fl., No. 28, Lane 247, Yenping N. Rd., Sec. 2, Taipei, Taiwan 103; Tel: 886-2-2557-8131; Fax: 886-2-2552-9807; E-mail: ir3499@ms17.hinet.net; Web site: www.oview.com.tw .