Southwest Microwave 385 - User Manual

Southwest Microwave Model 385
Outdoor Microwave Transceiver System
100 to 400 ft (30 to 122 m) Detection Range
Features:
odel 385 K-Band Outdoor Microwave Transceiver provides
reliable three dimensional protection in outdoor environments.
Sensitive, field-adjustable detection circuitry is capable of
detecting the human intruder while walking running, or crawling on hands
and knees at a distance up to 400 feet (122 m) from the transceiver.
A patented* Range Cutoff (RCO) Circuit positively rejects all microwave
targets beyond a preselected range. This unique capability makes Model
385 immune to alarms from any object outside the RCO distance, even very
large microwave targets such as semitrailers, trees, trains or aircraft.
Operating at K-band, which is much less crowded than X-band, Model 385
is inherently less susceptible to outside interference form airport landing
systems, aircraft radar, and other microwave intrusion systems. Because its
K-band microwave frequency is 2.5 times higher than the X-band, the mul-
tipath signal generated by an intruder is also 2.5 times higher and detection
of slow-moving intruders is correspondingly better.
Model 385 is also equipped with a patented Zero-Range Suppression (ZRS)
Circuit which reduces the amplitude of any microwave target which is at very
close range. This circuit dramatically reduces nuisance alarms from rain,
vibration, birds and windblown objects. Neither the RCO nor the ZRS circuit
affects detection pattern.
A Built-In Multiplex System allows the Model 385 to operate in close proximity
with other Southwest Microwave Transceivers and T/R Links without mutual
interference. For multiplexed operation, a synchronizer wire (twisted pair) is
connected to each sensor. Any sensor or external clock is connected as
“master” and all other sensors are connected as “slaves.” For a group of
up to sixteen sensors, only one sensor will operate at a given time.
Setup and adjustment of Model 385 is easily accomplished. Aim the trans-
ceiver into the area to be protected, apply power and allow a few minutes
to establish a reference level for reflected signals from the illuminated area.
Select the desired RCO distance 100 to 400 ft. (30 to 122 m) and perform
a walk test to determine optimum setting for sensitivity control.
Model 385 may be mounted to any solid surface by means of a lock down
swivel mounting bracket supplied with each unit. This swivel mount allows
circular rotation of up to 20
o
in any direction. Mounting bracket will also
mount to solidly based 3.5 or 4 inch (8.9 or 10.2 cm) O.D. post.
Model 385 is designed for use with Southwest Microwave T/R Links which
establish three-dimensional detection patterns, up to 1500 feet (450 m)
long, between transmitter and receiver.
Model 385
Outdoor Microwave Transceiver
Outdoor K-Band Volumetric
Detection to 400 Feet (122
m)
Resistant to Aircraft Radar and
Airport Radar Interference
Continuously Variable Range
Cut-Off Circuit Prevents Alarms
from Moving Objects Beyond a
Preselected Range
Zero-Range Suppression Circuit
Reduces Effects of Rain, Vibra-
tion, and Windblown Objects
Built-In Multiplex System for
Multiple Sensor Operation
Plug-In Test Meter Provides
Quick Set-up

Summary

Model 385 Key Features

Outdoor K-Band Volumetric Detection

Provides three-dimensional protection with a detection range up to 400 ft (122 m).

Radar Interference Resistance

K-band operation offers less susceptibility to interference from airport radar systems.

Range Cut-Off Circuit (RCO)

Positively rejects microwave targets beyond a preselected range, preventing false alarms.

Zero-Range Suppression Circuit (ZRS)

Reduces nuisance alarms from close-range effects like rain, vibration, and windblown objects.

Multiplex System for Multiple Sensors

Enables operation in close proximity with other transceivers without mutual interference.

Quick Setup with Test Meter

Features a plug-in test meter for easy and rapid system setup and adjustment.

Pattern and Operation Details

Detection Pattern Characteristics

Details detection range, width, and how sensitivity adjustments affect the pattern.

Unit Operation Principle

Explains how the transceiver detects motion, establishes reference levels, and generates alarms.

Technical Specifications

Key Performance Metrics

Covers detection range, width, target size, velocity, and probability of detection.

System Features and Compliance

Includes self-supervision, range cutoff function, spurious emissions, and sync selection.

Electrical and Environmental Data

Details DC input, alarm/tamper contacts, LED indicators, operating environment, and weight.

Ordering Information

How to Order Model 385

Instructions on specifying the Model 385 and ordering optional accessories.

Overview

1. Function Description
2. Important Technical Specifications
3. Usage Features
4. Maintenance Features

The Southwest Microwave Model 385 is an outdoor K-Band microwave transceiver designed to provide reliable three-dimensional protection in outdoor environments. It offers a detection range of 100 to 400 feet (30 to 122 meters) and is capable of detecting human intruders walking, running, or crawling on hands and knees.

Function Description:

The Model 385 operates by radiating a controlled pattern of microwave energy into the protected area. In the absence of intrusion, the receiver establishes a reference level based on reflected signals. When an intruder moves within the pattern, the received signal changes relative to this reference level, triggering an alarm.

A key feature is the patented Range Cutoff (RCO) Circuit, which positively rejects microwave targets beyond a preselected range of 100 to 400 feet (30-122 meters). This makes the Model 385 immune to alarms from objects outside the RCO distance, even large targets like semitrailers, trees, trains, or aircraft. The RCO distance is fixed and not affected by the sensor's sensitivity adjustment.

The device operates at K-band, which is less crowded than X-band, making it less susceptible to interference from airport landing systems, aircraft radar, and other microwave intrusion systems. The higher K-band frequency (2.5 times higher than X-band) also results in a 2.5 times higher multipath signal generated by an intruder, improving the detection of slow-moving intruders.

Another patented feature is the Zero-Range Suppression (ZRS) Circuit. This circuit reduces the amplitude of microwave targets at very close range, significantly reducing nuisance alarms caused by rain, vibration, birds, and windblown objects. Neither the RCO nor the ZRS circuit affects the detection pattern.

The Model 385 includes a Built-In Multiplex System, allowing it to operate in close proximity with other Southwest Microwave Transceivers and T/R Links without mutual interference. For multiplexed operation, a synchronizer wire (twisted pair) connects to each sensor. One sensor acts as the "master," and others as "slaves." In a group of up to sixteen sensors, only one sensor operates at a given time.

Important Technical Specifications:

• Detection Range: Variable from 100 feet (30.5 m) to 400 feet (122 m). Varies with site reflectivity.
• Detection Width: Varies with range, 3 feet (0.91 m) to 20 feet (6.1 m). Varies with site reflectivity.
• Target Size: Detects 77 pound (35 kg) human walking, running, hands and knees crawling or jumping. Prone crawling or rolling 77 pound (35 kg) human or 30 cm metal sphere may be detected at shorter ranges with special site preparation.
• Target Velocity: 0.2 ft/sec to 26 ft/sec (0.6 m/sec to 8.0 m/sec).
• Probability of Detection: 0.99 minimum on 0.8 m square meter target, based on equipment S/N ratio.
• Radiated Output: 32 milliwatts peak at 24.125 GHz.
• Spurious Emissions: Conforms to F.C.C. Regulation Part 15 (USA). FCC Identifier CA6385.
• DC Input: 11.0 to 14.5 VDC, 160 mA nominal, 220 mA synchronized.
• Alarm Relay Contacts: SPDT-Form C, 2 amps at 28 VDC.
• Tamper Switch: SPDT-Form C, 2 amps at 28 VDC.
• Operating Environment: -30°F to +150°F (-35°C to +66°C), 0-100% relative humidity. A heater is recommended below 0°F.
• Shipping Weight: 10 lbs (4.5 kg) total.
• Mounting Height: 3-4 feet (.9-1.2 m) for specified range and width; other heights reduce maximum range.
• Antenna Beamwidth: Approximately 3.8 degrees (horizontal and vertical).

Usage Features:

• Easy Setup and Adjustment: The transceiver is aimed into the protected area, powered on, and allowed a few minutes to establish a reference level. The desired RCO distance (100 to 400 ft.) is selected, and a walk test is performed to determine the optimum sensitivity control setting.
• Mounting: The Model 385 can be mounted to any solid surface using the supplied lock-down swivel mounting bracket. This bracket allows circular rotation of up to 20° in any direction and can also mount to solidly based 3.5 or 4 inch (8.9 or 10.2 cm) O.D. posts.
• Self-Supervision:
  • Antenna blockage causes a constant alarm.
  • A remote test checks the entire transceiver circuit.
  • There is no loss of detection upon loss of sync.
• LED Indicators: Includes indicators for Power "ON," Alarm, and SYNC lock.
• Remote Monitor: An external MS connector is provided for connection to an RM83 Performance Test Set.
• Compatibility: Designed for use with Southwest Microwave T/R Links to establish three-dimensional detection patterns up to 1500 feet (450 m) long between transmitter and receiver.

Maintenance Features:

• Technical Manual: Detailed information on application, installation, and adjustment is available in the Model 385 Technical Manual. Careful installation and alignment are required for trouble-free operation.
• Resistant to Environmental Factors: Relatively insensitive to rain, snow, vibration, and small windblown objects due to the Zero-Range Suppression Circuit. However, area of coverage may be reduced in extreme environments for additional reliability.

Southwest Microwave 385 Specifications

General

Brand	Southwest Microwave
Model	385
Category	Accessories
Language	English