How Distributed Acoustic Sensing Works
 

​

Distributed Acoustic Sensing (DAS) transforms standard fiber optic cables into intelligent sensors that monitor vibrations and acoustic signals in real time.

 

Using phase-sensitive optical time-domain reflectometry (Φ-OTDR), DAS systems inject coherent laser pulses into fiber and analyze the backscatter patterns caused by minute environmental changes — footsteps, engine rumbles, fence climbs, or tool strikes.

​

By continuously analyzing these dynamic signals across thousands of spatial channels, DAS enables large-scale, passive perimeter detection without needing cameras, transmitters, or motion sensors.

 

ProtecTerra’s DAS deployments are enhanced with machine learning classifiers that isolate true threats from background noise and environmental artifacts.

​

This allows operators to:

• Detect and geolocate potential intrusions with meter-level accuracy

• Monitor hard-to-reach or line-of-sight-denied zones

• Integrate alerts into TerraNexus dashboards or existing security systems

​

The result: persistent, low-profile domain awareness — scalable from remote desert borders to dense construction zones.