At ISC West 2025, Southwest Microwave made a bold statement about the future of perimeter intrusion detection. In a conversation between Tom Fontana and Tim Claus, the company revealed updates to their Intrepid™ product line that focus on flexibility, infrastructure savings, and integration across evolving facility needs—proving once again that perimeter protection is anything but one-size-fits-all.
Lower Infrastructure Costs, Extended Capabilities
"One of the biggest questions we get today is, how flexible is the system? How can we reduce our cost?" said Fontana.
That question was met with enthusiasm by Claus, who introduced the MicroPoint™ X system—a perimeter detection solution designed to push processors farther apart, dramatically reducing infrastructure costs without sacrificing accuracy.
Built on the foundation of the trusted MicroPoint™ sensor cable, which is available in both standard and armored versions, the X variant allows detection with pinpoint accuracy—within 1.1 meters—on a wide variety of fencing types, including chain-link, razor coil, and metal barriers. "What makes it new," Claus explained, "is extended cable range. It allows us to put processors further apart around the perimeter," reducing the need for multiple drops and infrastructure buildout.
Scalable Solutions for Every Site Size
Southwest Microwave also offers the UniZone™ system—a compact, single-zone solution ideal for smaller perimeters such as cell tower sites and temporary construction zones. “Think of UniZone™ as something like, almost like a rapid deployment sensor,” Claus said. Its ease of installation and low cost make it ideal for mobile or temporary use, with the added flexibility of reusing processors while swapping out the low-cost sensor cable between jobs.
This modularity allows integrators to tailor systems to varying risk levels and project types without needing to relearn installation practices or retrain technicians—standardized hardware and installation methods ensure ease across deployments.
Proven Technology Still Delivers
While Southwest Microwave is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in perimeter intrusion detection, they haven’t forgotten about proven technology that continues to serve mission-critical environments. The MicroPoint™ II remains a go-to choice for high-security applications like correctional facilities and nuclear power plants.
"This is an RS-422-based system," Claus noted, highlighting its value in environments requiring network isolation. “It puts power and data on the sensor cable and passes it around that perimeter,” eliminating the need for additional field infrastructure. This makes it ideal for perimeters up to four miles where cost-effective, redundant, and reliable detection is essential.
Backward and Forward Compatibility = Maximum Flexibility
One standout message at ISC West 2025 was the compatibility of old and new systems. “Older product works with newer products,” Fontana emphasized. Claus echoed the sentiment: “We’re not phasing that out. It’s forward and backward compatible.” Whether a facility is upgrading legacy systems or expanding to new sections with POE infrastructure, Southwest Microwave’s solutions are designed to interoperate, protecting past investments while embracing new technology.
This level of integration provides unparalleled site-specific flexibility. “Once your tech is an expert at this, they can do this, this, or this—pretty much the same way,” Claus said. From a large pipeline installation to a secured corporate compound, the ability to mix and match processors, cable types, and zone sizes means that security professionals can optimize for budget, infrastructure, and risk—without compromise.
Innovation on the Horizon
While much of the current focus is on proven, scalable perimeter systems, Claus hinted at what’s next. “We have some new type of microwave sensors that are in prototype... covering gaps and corners, small type of applications."
Beyond that, Southwest Microwave is also developing new test tools and additional field accessories that promise to further streamline installation and diagnostics.
Their commitment remains clear: “Our focus is always on robust and performance,” said Claus. “We look at the highest levels of security in the most extreme weather environments and produce sensors that shine in those environments.”
Southwest Microwave’s product updates at ISC West 2025 reaffirm their position as a leading innovator in perimeter intrusion detection. With a mix of rugged reliability, extended detection capabilities, and unmatched system flexibility, their solutions are designed for today’s dynamic security landscape. Whether securing a temporary job site, a critical infrastructure facility, or an international border, Southwest Microwave delivers scalable protection that adapts to your infrastructure—not the other way around.
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