Software updates advance acoustic threat detection with individual sensor elevation tuning and enhanced noise analytics
Acoem has announced two software updates for its Acoustic Threat Detection (ATD) Gunshot Detection System, adding individual sensor-level elevation tuning and enhanced acoustic analytics to address environmental anomalies that can resemble gunshot detection signals.
False positives remain an operational challenge for organizations using acoustic threat detection across campuses, critical infrastructure, utilities and communities. Hills, buildings and other environmental changes that affect the surrounding skyline can complicate classification, creating additional alerts for security teams to review.
Individual Sensor Tuning For Local Environments
Acoem’s latest Cadence software release allows administrators to set elevation and horizon thresholds for individual sensors based on their surrounding environment.
The capability is particularly useful in areas where loud noises such as fireworks are common, as their acoustic characteristics can resemble gunshots. The elevation threshold helps the system more accurately classify fireworks and other skyline noise as non-threats.
For larger deployments, administrators can also tailor individual sensors to local conditions instead of applying identical settings across an entire fleet.
Enhanced Acoustic Signal And Noise Analysis
Acoem is also refining its AI methodology with changes to acoustic signal and noise analytics designed to detect anomalies and reduce false positives.
The update builds on the company’s data science expertise to improve how the system distinguishes potential gunfire from surrounding noise.
These changes build on existing Acoem ATD capabilities, including:
- Dual-detection capability: Employs shockwave-enhanced muzzle-blast detection to analyze acoustic signatures, ensuring highly reliable gunshot verification across both urban and rural environments.
- 96-attribute analysis: Uses an onboard AI neural network to instantly analyze acoustic events and filter out ambient noise and urban distractions.
- Edge-based processing: Verifies threats locally at the sensor in real time, eliminating latency and reducing reliance on backend server infrastructure.
- PTZ camera integration: Instantly directs connected PTZ cameras toward the origin of a detected acoustic threat, delivering immediate visual confirmation for actionable situational awareness.
“The volume of security system alarms are one of the biggest drains on security resources today. This update highlights how we leverage our deep data science expertise to continuously evolve our technology alongside our customers,”
said Mike ODea, Managing Director, Acoem ATD.
“By giving teams the ability to adapt detection to their specific environments, we’re delivering the most flexible, accurate acoustic threat protection available to keep communities and critical infrastructure safe.”
Software Updates Coming In Q4 2026
The software updates will be available in Q4 2026 for existing customers, who will have the option to apply them through the Cadence software platform.
System administrators will receive official release notes ahead of the rollout. Over-the-network updates will be delivered directly to edge sensors without requiring additional backend server infrastructure.
Acoem provides public security and acoustic threat detection solutions for municipalities, critical infrastructure, campuses and public venues. Its ATD Gunshot Detection System uses AI-driven acoustic analysis, edge-based sensors and PTZ camera integration to support real-time threat detection and visual verification.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are Acoem’s new software updates?
They add individual sensor-level elevation tuning and enhanced acoustic signal and noise analytics.
2. How does individual sensor tuning help?
It allows administrators to configure sensors according to local environmental conditions, including hills, buildings and skyline noise.
3. Can the system help reduce false positives from fireworks?
Yes. Elevation and horizon thresholds can help distinguish fireworks and other skyline noise from potential gunshot events.
4. When will the updates be available?
The software updates are scheduled to become available to existing customers in Q4 2026.
5. Does the update require additional backend servers?
No. Updates can be delivered over the network directly to edge sensors without requiring additional backend server infrastructure.