Axis Communications pioneers explosion-protected security tech

Axis Communications has unveiled groundbreaking explosion-protected devices, marking a significant leap forward in hazardous area safety and security technology. The Swedish network technology firm announced the launch of two innovative products: the world’s first explosion-protected thermometric camera designed for Zone and Division 2 hazardous locations, and its inaugural Zone and Division 1 certified explosion-protected network horn speaker.

The new thermometric camera, tailored for remote temperature monitoring, boasts a detection range extending into Zone and Division 1 hazardous areas. This capability allows for enhanced operational efficiency in environments where traditional monitoring methods pose significant risks.

Complementing the camera is the AXIS XC1311 Explosion-Protected Network Horn Speaker, certified for use in Class I Division 1 Groups A, B, C, D and Zone 1 IIC, Zone 21 IIIC hazardous areas. This audio device enables live, scheduled, and event-triggered voice messages, bolstering health and safety protocols, operational efficiency, and security measures in high-risk industrial settings.

“Our new products demonstrate Axis’ commitment to expanding our explosion-protected portfolio to meet evolving customer needs,” said an Axis Communications spokesperson. The company’s focus on this niche market follows its 2023 introduction of the world’s first explosion-protected camera specifically designed for Zone and Division 2 hazardous locations.

The AXIS XC1311 horn speaker stands out for its ability to deliver high-volume, clear audio messages even in noisy environments, achieving a maximum sound pressure level exceeding 110 dB at 1 metre. Its integration with analytics-equipped network cameras allows for automated alerts, enhancing response times to potential hazards such as smoke detection or temperature fluctuations.

One of the key advantages of the new horn speaker is its simplified installation and management process. Utilising a single cable for both power and connectivity, it significantly reduces installation time and overall cost of ownership compared to traditional analogue systems. The device comes pre-installed with AXIS Audio Manager Edge software, facilitating content management, message scheduling, and system health monitoring for up to 200 speakers across 20 zones.

Cybersecurity remains a priority, with the horn speaker featuring Axis Edge Vault to prevent unauthorised access. The explosion-protected design is achieved through an aluminium chamber housing the electronics and power connections, adhering to strict international standards that require full traceability of all critical components for a decade.

These innovations come at a time when industrial safety and efficiency are increasingly under scrutiny. By leveraging network technology and advanced analytics, Axis is positioning itself at the forefront of the industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) revolution, offering solutions that not only enhance safety but also contribute to smarter, more efficient operations in hazardous environments.

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