How to mask your WXS and VXS series

5 August 2024

Both our OPTEX WXS and VXS series detectors come with an area masking seal, designed to further enhance the sensors versatility and to ensure easy installation in a range of detection area shapes and sizes.

In simple terms, area masking is used to limit the view of the WXS and VXS series detectors to exclude unwanted areas or objects from the detection zone. For example, objects with rapid temperature changes (heater, air-conditioner, etc.) in front of the detectors may cause false alarms. In this instance, area masking can be used to exclude areas from the detection zone. In this tech tip, our technical team shares its top tips to mask the WXS and VXS for optimal detection.

Anti-Masking versus Area Masking

Anti-masking is the ability to detect and generate an output that can be monitored when there is an attempt to block the lens or sabotage the ability of the of the sensor to detect intruders. Both the WXS and VXS Series have built in active infrared to detect any object covering the lens surface, further increasing their reliability and effectiveness. The sensors also feature a dedicated trouble output, and it is triggered when anti-masking is detected. In the device setting, there is a dip switch to enable device anti-masking, simply switch this on to enable effective anti-masking.

WXS series area masking

The WXS series is our outdoor 180-degree PIR sensors. For area masking, this model has retractable shutters on the left and right side used to narrow the detection angle if required.

Also, included in the box are area masking plates. We insert and clip in place to mask off individual section of the detection zone.

Optex wxs area masking with shutters example area h

VXS series area masking

VXS is part of our outdoor 90-degree PIR sensor range. OPTEX includes a pack of area masking seals of various masking patterns in the box to use as and when required. To apply area masking, first determine the area within the detection zone that needs masking and simply select the area masking seal with the closest pattern to the masking area.