Hot topic! Axis radar integrated to a radar management system

Radar manufacturers are often known for their wide assortment of compact surveillance radars. But even though many of these radars are considered short-range, in some situations even the smallest models provide more than you need. This could be to cover a corner, a small blind spot, or similar. So what if an Axis radar could be added to a radar management system? At first glance, Axis and other radar manufacturers seem to be competitors, but that is a mistake. Comparing the products, both Axis and other manufacturers use FMCW radars, which are network-connected, solid-state radars, but that is where the similarities end. The differences come from completely different philosophies and market strategies.

Axis provides an entry-level radar targeting a mass market. Aiming towards a mass market may be advantageous in simplifying certain things, perhaps to reduce unnecessary support.

Other radar manufacturers, on the other hand, target specific verticals with quite challenging use cases, categorized as facilities critical for society—such as substations, ports, prisons, and airports. It is critical for success that the radar allows engineers to tweak and adjust it to its environment. A manufacturer’s radar can be adjusted in multiple different features, each with multiple steps. Axis radar, in contrast, allows only a couple of features to be either on or off.

Another key fact is that radar manufacturers often design and develop both hardware and software in-house. From the hardware and software in the radar sensors to the back-end radar management server and the operator interface, this gives them the ability to fine-tune every part of the system.

Switching to the other side of the coin, it’s essential to emphasize the importance of a flexible radar management system. Many radar manufacturers also provide their own radar management systems. But more times than not, they are proprietary and do not let you use sensors from other manufacturers.

So, where does Axis radar fit into this? Well, the Axis radar is a good, ultra-short-range (60-70m) radar with some limitations regarding potential use cases. Considering its price, many installers prefer it to fill certain gaps and blind spots, rather than using a thermal camera with video analytics. Recognizing this opportunity, and being a sensor management system developer and Axis Development Partner, we decided to integrate Axis into our system! We were surprised by the fantastic response from both installers and end users. Now they can have all radars on one system, perhaps using a PTZ camera from another brand, and finally enjoy all the features built into the radar management system.