Detector Electronics Debuts xWatch™ for Fire Detection and Visual Assessment
MINNEAPOLIS - November 30, 2006 - Detector Electronics announced today the debut of xWatch™, a video surveillance system that provides high-resolution monitoring from within Det-Tronics® X-Series flame detectors. xWatch also can operate as a stand-alone device to monitor hazardous areas typical to petroleum and chemical manufacturing. Detector Electronics, a manufacturer of flame and gas detectors and systems, is part of UTC Fire & Security, a unit of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE:UTX).
The xWatch monitoring system, combined with a Det-Tronics’ flame detector, is ideally suited for remote or hard-to-access areas. Both devices view the same 90-degree cone of vision. Continuous, real-time video provides the operator with surveillance capabilities during normal operation. If a fire is detected, the operator has the knowledge for accurately assessing the risk and location of the fire in the monitored area to initiate the appropriate response. "Integrating the flame detector with the xWatch provides video surveillance matched to the flame detector itself," said Rob Fillmore, Detector Electronics Engineering Manager. "The xWatch provides a logical extension to powerful flame detection capabilities. Together they offer a convenient method of matching the appropriate level of mitigation to the threat."
"Our approach avoids the inherent tradeoffs that result from requiring a single device to perform the function of flame detection and video imaging. Rather, Det-Tronics opted for the integration of a video camera that provides a high quality picture and our best-in-class flame detectors," Fillmore said.
xWatch is an economical and effective video imaging solution. It can be retrofitted into an existing C7050 Detector by replacing the tube module with the camera module, reducing installation costs.
Users can add a video switcher or server for a live video feed and view the output on a DVR or computer monitor. Video recording equipment provides the ability to review all activity before, during, and after the event occurs.
About Detector Electronics
Detector Electronics is a world leader in optical fire detection, gas detection, and hazard mitigation systems, designed for critical SIL industrial applications. Detector Electronics designs, builds, tests, and commissions safety systems that range from conventional panels to fault-tolerant, addressable systems. Det-Tronics flame and gas detectors are globally certified to the latest product approvals standards. Detector is part of UTC Fire & Security, a United Technologies Corp. business unit that, provides fire safety and security solutions to more than one million customers throughout the world. Both UTC Fire & Security and United Technologies Corp., which provide high technology products and services to the building and aerospace industries worldwide, are headquartered in Connecticut, USA. Learn more at www.det tronics.com or www.utcfireandsecurity.com