Optex OVS-02GT Virtual Loop Vehicle Detection Sensor

Above-Ground Vehicle Detection Sensor for Gates and Barriers

The Optex OVS-02GT Virtual Loop 2.0 is an above-ground vehicle presence sensor designed for automatic gates, barrier arms, and controlled access lanes. Instead of cutting concrete or asphalt for an in-ground loop, the OVS-02GT uses 24GHz FMCW microwave detection to sense vehicles from the side of the lane and provide activation or protection signals to the connected gate or barrier operator.

This sensor is built for applications where clean installation, vehicle presence detection, and reduced pavement work matter. It can be used for barrier gate activation, barrier protection, slide gate activation and protection, swing gate activation and protection, and swing gate shadow detection. With a configurable 7 to 26 ft detection range, two relay outputs, smartphone app setup, and programmable human detection behavior, the OVS-02GT gives installers a flexible virtual loop solution for access control and perimeter security layouts.

The OVS-02GT is also designed for outdoor gate environments. Its IP66 and NEMA 4 rated housing, built-in heater, wide angle adjustment, visible status indicator, and 12–24 VAC/DC power input make it suitable for commercial entrances, gated communities, parking facilities, secure driveways, and industrial access points where vehicle detection must continue through changing weather and traffic conditions.

Key Features

• Above-ground virtual loop vehicle detection sensor for gates and barriers
• Uses 24GHz FMCW microwave technology for vehicle presence detection
• Eliminates saw-cutting, coring, or trenching for traditional in-ground loop installation
• Adjustable 7 to 26 ft detection range for different lane and gate layouts
• Supports barrier gate, slide gate, and swing gate applications
• Can be used for activation, protection, and swing gate shadow detection
• Programmable human detection or human cancellation based on site requirements
• Two outputs support flexible gate or barrier control configurations
• Smartphone app setup through BLE communication
• IP66 and NEMA 4 rated housing for indoor or outdoor installation
• Built-in heater supports stable operation in cold weather
• Compatible with single gang box mounting and Optex mini posts

Technical Specifications

• Manufacturer: Optex
• Model: OVS-02GT
• Product Type: Surface-mount vehicle detection sensor
• Technology: Microwave FMCW
• Microwave Frequency: 24GHz
• BLE Communication Frequency: 2.4GHz
• Application: Barrier gate activation and protection; slide gate activation and protection; swing gate activation, protection, and shadow detection
• Detectable Vehicle Speed: 1.2 to 22 mph
• Detection Range: 7 ft. to 26 ft., adjustable in 20 in. pitch
• Response: Minimum 500 ms
• Supply Voltage: 12–24 VAC/DC
• Power Consumption: Up to 300 mA with heater enabled; up to 90 mA with heater disabled at 24V
• Outputs: 2 relay outputs
• Output 1: Non-voltage solid state relay output, 30VDC, 0.3A or less, N.O. / N.C.
• Output 2: Non-voltage mechanical relay output, 30VDC, 1A or less, N.O. / N.C.
• Input: N.O. contact non-voltage relay input
• Modes: Link OR gate, Link AND gate, Inhibit, Wake
• Delay Settings: Off, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, or 4 seconds
• Hold Timer Settings: Off, 0.5, 1, 2, 3, 10, 30, or 60 seconds
• Detection Operation: Detection, pre-detection, or mask
• Output Type: Holding, Pulse IN, or Pulse OUT
• Pulse Time Duration: 150 ms, 250 ms, 500 ms, or 1 second
• Main Sensitivity: Level 1 to 7
• Fine Tuning Presence: Level 1 to 7
• Close Range Sensitivity: Level 1 to 7
• Side Approach Detection: Off or On, 2.5 seconds
• Sensitivity Boost: Off, Low, Middle, or High
• Presence Detection Timer: 5, 15, 60, 180 minutes, or Infinity
• Slide Gate Cancellation: Off or On
• Vibration Sensitivity: Off, Low, Middle, or High
• Degree of Protection: IP66 / NEMA 4
• Installation Location: Indoor or outdoor
• Installation Height: 20 in. from road surface to bottom of unit
• Sensor Angle Adjustment: Left and right ±96°, 3° pitch
• Operating Temperature: -22°F to 122°F
• Operating Humidity: 95% maximum, non-condensing
• Dimensions: 3.07 in. W x 6.69 in. H x 3.16 in. D
• Weight: 21 oz. including accessories
• Programming: Smartphone app

Conclusion

The Optex OVS-02GT Virtual Loop 2.0 is a practical replacement for in-ground loop detection where vehicle presence sensing is needed without pavement cutting. Its radar-based detection, adjustable range, dual outputs, app configuration, and outdoor-rated housing make it useful for gate and barrier systems that need activation, protection, or shadow detection in a cleaner surface-mounted format.