Optex unveils REDSCAN Lite sensor for secure datacentre spaces

OPTEX has announced the release of its REDSCAN Lite LiDAR sensor, aimed at enhancing short-range, high-precision detection capabilities for datacentre operators tasked with protecting critical assets from physical breaches.

New detection solution

The REDSCAN Lite sensor employs 2D LiDAR technology to identify intrusions within a 10-metre by 10-metre area in under 100 milliseconds. This speed and precision are set to address security concerns around sensitive infrastructure such as server racks and access control points.

The product is designed for edge-to-edge detection in compact spaces where it can create invisible laser walls. This enables coverage in locations where conventional sensors may not function effectively, such as around ventilation conduits or access points, or in horizontal mode to safeguard features like skylights or raised floors.

Datacentre requirements

Datacentres in the UK and EU have recently been classified as critical infrastructure, resulting in tighter regulatory requirements for physical security. Industry research indicates that almost two-thirds of datacentres experienced a physical security breach in the past year, raising the stakes for effective security solutions and detection technology.

The REDSCAN Lite sensor is intended to meet these challenges by fitting into narrow gaps in densely packed server rooms and detecting small intrusions, including attempts to insert USB drives, LAN cables, or other devices through server racks. This level of sensitivity is aimed at deterring both internal and external threats.

Minimising false alarms

Environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations, low light and total darkness can impact the reliability of traditional intrusion detection technologies. The company states that REDSCAN Lite aims to operate with a lower incidence of false alarms in these conditions, which frequently characterise the datacentre environment.

"In today's modern environments, such as datacentres, spaces are becoming tighter and tighter filling with racks and processors. This latest REDSCAN Lite has been developed to meet the specific need for rapid detection in tight indoor spaces where high security is crucial. It is another example of our continuous focus, since pioneering the use of LiDAR technology for security in 2009, on developing solutions to the real-world problems of customers," said Mac Kokobo, Head of Global Security Business, OPTEX

"Feedback from customers highlighted a clear need for enhanced protection in small, narrow areas and spaces," Mac continues. "So the REDSCAN Lite sensor has been designed to fit into the narrow gaps and is engineered to provide highly accurate and fast detection in indoor spaces that other technologies simply cannot reach."