Outdoor security systems technologies for the year 2000 and beyond

Abstract

The field of outdoor security systems has undergone considerable change since it first emerged as an identifiable discipline over two decades ago and it is currently on the brink of further significant change. This paper provides a unique industry perspective on upcoming changes, the major trends that are driving these changes and the likely impact on technology developments needed. Modern outdoor security systems had their genesis in military and other special government applications. At first, this was primarily for cost reasons as only high end users could afford the technologies capable of working reliably in the harsh outdoor environment. However there were other reasons as well. Developing these new technologies was a formidable challenge that not only required government resources, but also the development of comprehensive installation and test and evaluation procedures. This initial government investment resulted in an industry that focused on this specialized niche but which has subsequently opened other applications including VIP residential, commercial/industrial, airports and correctional facilities. To achieve this, costs have come down significantly, the experience from the military and governmental applications have migrated to the commercial sector and the industry has started to invest in its own Research and Development (R&D).