MEMS sensors (microelectromechanical systems) are used numerous every day products such as vehicles and consumer electronics, and they can detect mechanical, magnetic, and even chemical changes reliably and with great precision, and convert these into electrical signals. This innovative technology is now also finding its way into security technology.

In addition to improved catch performance and false-alarm immunity brought by the MEMS technology, they also deliver all the tried-and-tested benefits of the Bosch Tritech detectors, which have a detection range of up to 15 metres and are used inside commercial premises with a moderate to high security risk, such as office and factory buildings, banks, and retail outlets.

The MEMS sensors Bosch is using in the Commercial Series (Gen2) motion detectors are ultra-small high-performance acceleration sensors like those used in smartphones, for example. “With even better impact and vibration compensation and no mechanical contacts, these sensors offer maximum false-alarm immunity,” explains James Mottorn, a sensor expert and product manager at Bosch Building Technologies. Since there is therefore also no need for a mounting screw for the tamper contact, the anti-mask version now takes even less time to install. Additionally, the MEMS sensors make it even easier to spot attempted tampering at the place of installation, whether someone is trying to pull the detector off the wall or remove brackets and swivel joints.

As part of the update, Bosch has also further enhanced the detector’s RF (radio frequency) immunity. In the new devices, this is now up to 6 GHz, providing the motion detectors with even better protection from interference caused by Wifi routers, which typically operate in this frequency range. Another plus point of the new generation is that the integrated EOL resistors can now be selected more quickly during installation because the jumpers have been replaced by user-friendly switches. Last but not least, the innovation boasts further optimised anti-mask monitoring for the sensors, which is now more sensitive to attempts to block the sensors using paper or spray paint, for example. Likewise, the improved anti-mask monitoring can also identify objects such as advertising banners that have been inadvertently placed in front of the detector.

Shared benefits

The new Commercial Series (Gen2) motion detectors share the established benefits of TriTech technology – a combination of PIR and microwave Doppler radar technology plus advanced signal processing. In a setting with an elevated security risk, any movement in an area needs to be detected quickly and reliably without triggering any false alarms – even in challenging environments such as locations with strong air currents, moving objects, and difficult light or temperature conditions. The Commercial Series (Gen2) models are designed to be easy to install, which cuts installation costs.

One of the biggest suppliers of MEMS sensors

Bosch is one of the biggest suppliers of MEMS sensors for vehicles and consumer electronics worldwide and has already produced more than 18 billion sensors. For example, it is MEMS sensors that enable fitness trackers to count steps, ensure airbags open at the right moment, and activate brake assistance systems in vehicles. Thanks to these properties, MEMS sensors are also ideal for use in safety applications in buildings.