Glossary

• BDL – Barrier Data Link. This system is supplied by TAG and can integrate and connect all access control equipment through a networked system. Contact TAG for more information.
• Bellows – The bellows are protective covers over the cavity presented when a barrier is in the fully up position. It prevents personnel, debris, and trash from entering the cavity. This has become common on most DOS specifications.
• Bi-Fold Gates – Bi-Fold gates are made of 2-4 sections or panels opening in pairs These gates are a type of Track Gate. However, the track is often housed in a self contained, weather resistant portion of the gate which substantially lowers maintenance and increases functionality. These gates are typically employed ay higher security locations due to the speed with which the gates can potentially open. See also, Track Gate, Cantilevered Gate, and Rolling Gate.
• Blockers – see Wedge Barriers.
• Blocking Component – The part of the Vehicle Barrier or Anti-Ram Gate System that physically stops vehicles from gaining access to a compound (i.e. wedge, bollard, road plate, drop arm, or gate leaf).
• Bollard – An in-ground barrier system in which the blocking component(s) is one or more cylinders that rise to form an obstacle the road surface. The width of the bollard tube and the height are two factors that influence the stopping power of the bollard. Bollards can come in fixed post, semi-automatic, hydraulic
• Bollard Castings – see bollard sleeves.
• Bollard Heaters – This package is meant for cold weather locations that average temperatures around freezing. The bollard heater is located on the bollards themselves. Radiant heat keeps oil in the hydraulic cylinder at a more viscous state for better operation. The heaters also provide protection against ice build up on operationally important parts.
• Bollard Sleeves – Bollard sleeves or bollard castings are employed around the bollard and function primarily as aesthetic enhancements. These are typical of fixed post bollards, but may be integrated in an actuated bollard as well. Bollard Sleeves may be removeable or fixed on the bollard. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and with numerous optional features. For example, stainless steel is a popular option for bollard sleeves. Most of these features are not stock options, but are custom configurations. For more information, see bollard.

• BDL – Barrier Data Link. This system is supplied by TAG and can integrate and connect all access control equipment through a networked system. Contact TAG for more information.
• Bellows – The bellows are protective covers over the cavity presented when a barrier is in the fully up position. It prevents personnel, debris, and trash from entering the cavity. This has become common on most DOS specifications.
• Bi-Fold Gates – Bi-Fold gates are made of 2-4 sections or panels opening in pairs These gates are a type of Track Gate. However, the track is often housed in a self contained, weather resistant portion of the gate which substantially lowers maintenance and increases functionality. These gates are typically employed ay higher security locations due to the speed with which the gates can potentially open. See also, Track Gate, Cantilevered Gate, and Rolling Gate.
• Blockers – see Wedge Barriers.
• Blocking Component – The part of the Vehicle Barrier or Anti-Ram Gate System that physically stops vehicles from gaining access to a compound (i.e. wedge, bollard, road plate, drop arm, or gate leaf).
• Bollard – An in-ground barrier system in which the blocking component(s) is one or more cylinders that rise to form an obstacle the road surface. The width of the bollard tube and the height are two factors that influence the stopping power of the bollard. Bollards can come in fixed post, semi-automatic, hydraulic
• Bollard Castings – see bollard sleeves.
• Bollard Heaters – This package is meant for cold weather locations that average temperatures around freezing. The bollard heater is located on the bollards themselves. Radiant heat keeps oil in the hydraulic cylinder at a more viscous state for better operation. The heaters also provide protection against ice build up on operationally important parts.
• Bollard Sleeves – Bollard sleeves or bollard castings are employed around the bollard and function primarily as aesthetic enhancements. These are typical of fixed post bollards, but may be integrated in an actuated bollard as well. Bollard Sleeves may be removeable or fixed on the bollard. They come in a variety of shapes, sizes, materials, and with numerous optional features. For example, stainless steel is a popular option for bollard sleeves. Most of these features are not stock options, but are custom configurations. For more information, see bollard.

• DARE – Drug Abuse Resistance Education
• DEA – Drug Enforcement Administration
• DHS – Department of Homeland Security
• DOJ – Department of Justice
• DOT – Department of Transportation
• DTO – Drug Trafficking Organization
• DOS – Department of State – The DOS is the chief diplomatic division of the United States Government. They are also the primary government agency issuing crash rating standards and certifications for vehicle barriers. DS may also be used to abbreviate the Department of State in some cases. United States Embassy’s and the group charged with their construction and upkeep, OBO, fall under the Department of State.
• DPAS – Defense Priority and Allocations Systems – This term refers to the US governments policy that all order given a DPAS code be allocated immediately for manufacturing and delivery. Furthermore, under Title I of the Defense Production Act of 1950, as amended (DPA), the President is authorized to require preferential acceptance and performance of contracts or orders supporting certain approved national defense and energy programs, and to allocate materials, services, and facilities in such a manner as to promote these approved programs. Additional priorities authority is found in Section 18 of the Selective Service Act of 1948, in 10 U.S.C. 2538, and in 50 U.S.C. 82. The DPA priorities and allocations authority has also been extended to support emergency preparedness activities under Title VI of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (Stafford Act). To obtain additional information on the DPAS or to request training materials, please visit the US Bureau of Industry and Security
• Delta Barrier – A Delta Barrier is a generic term for a vehicle barrier. However, this does not refer to an entire Vehicle Barrier System. The origin of the term comes from Delta Scientific, one of the first companies to build barriers. The term “Delta Barrier” is often misused as a generic term for a vehicle barrier.
• Delta Barriers – A Delta Barrier is a generic term for a vehicle barrier. However, this does not refer to an entire Vehicle Barrier System. The origin of the term comes from Delta Scientific, one of the first companies to build barriers. The term “Delta Barrier” is often misused as a generic term for a vehicle barrier.
• Drop Arm Style Barrier – An above-ground barrier system in which the blocking component(s) is a pivoting drop arm that is either a crash absorbing structure itself or designed to support an installed crash absorbing chain or cable. When closed, this type of barrier is anchored by extremely heavy weight buttresses or by concrete stanchions and footers. The Drop Arm has an appearance similar to simple traffic arm barriers. See also, Cable Beam Barrier.

• ESF – Economic Support Fund
• EU – European Union
• EXBS – The Export Control and Related Border Security Assistance (EXBS) Program
• EFO- Emergency Fast Operation – This is the speed at which the barrier is raised from a lowered position into a protected position in the reduced time of an emergency. This speed ranges from under 1 second up to 5 seconds. The fastest speeds will be around .75 seconds. NOTE: This mode disables all safety devices and is to be used ONLY in safe testing or in the case of a real emergency.
• Econolator – The econolator is a very small (1/2 pint – 1 gallon capacity), permanently sealed accumulator that is only used for the purposes of hydraulic shock absorption and pulse dampening. Econolators are not used for energy storage.
• Electric Barriers – Electric barriers utilize an electric actuator as opposed to pneumatic, hydraulic, or manually operated barriers. These are typically much lower in maintenance, easily integrated into a self contained design, have a longer life, come with a longer warranty, and operate more smoothly during normal operation. They are environmentally friendly having no hydraulic oil. These actuators can operate under different power requirements specific to a site. Installation of the barriers is far easier and more cost efficient when employing a self contained design. For more information, visit the Electric Barrier section of our Products Page.
• Electric Bollards – These bollards use an electric motor to actuate the bollards. Utilizing an electric motor to actuate bollards as opposed to other means has many benefits similar to those found in an Electric Wedge Barrier.
• Electric Wedge Barrier – An electric wedge barrier utilizes an electric motor to actuate the barrier. This barrier employs a shallow foundation design in addition to being totally self contained. By having all the components of the barrier and the actuator internally located, a self contained design decreases installation which substantially reduces cost. This also increases ease of maintenance as access to components is all centralized.
• Electrical Aluminum Gate Arm – In some configurations, an electric actuated aluminum gate arm is necessary. This gate arm provides a traffic control visual much like Stop/Go Lights. This is typically placed in front of the barrier aiding in safety and preventing accidental hits to the barrier. See also, Electrical Wood Gate Arm.
• Electrical Disconnects – HPU – Electrical disconnects are provided to allow maintenance, service, and security personnel to switch off and on power. This allows for easy, safe maintenance at the HPU.
• Electrical Wood Gate Arm – In some configurations, an electric actuated wood gate arm is necessary. This gate arm provides a traffic control visual much like Stop/Go Lights. This is typically placed in front of the barrier aiding in safety and preventing accidental hits to the barrier. See also, Electrical Aluminum Gate Arm.
• Extra Set of Hydraulic Hose – Some HPU’s are set off a certain distance for a variety of concerns not necessarily security issues. If this is the case, extra hydraulic hose needs to be specifically ordered. Typically barriers throughout the industry come with 25-50’ of hose. IMPORTANT: A barrier should only be offset from the HPU a short distance. Long distances will contribute to slow operation or even operational failure.

• FATF – Financial Action Task Force
• FBI – Federal Bureau of Investigation
• FinCEN – Financial Crimes Enforcement Network
• FIU – Financial Intelligence Unit
• Fixed Post Bollard – A fixed post bollard is a popular perimeter security solution. They can easily employ aesthetically pleasing bollard sleeves or castings. Fixed post bollards are often crash rated systems and are very pedestrian friendly. They work well for highly urban locations which need to establish a friendly perimeter. Bollards can also come in semi-automatic, hydraulic, pneumatic, or self-contained configurations.
• FSA – FREEDOM Support Act

• Gates – Gates are a type of vehicle barrier system. They range from deployment at lower security locations to the highest security sites. Gates combine two often separate security abilities. A gate can be crash rated, and is often anti-climb. However, gates are typically slow moving and bulky when crash rated. Anti-climb pickets also affect the weight and speed of the gate. For more information on the different types of gates, see also Track Gate, Swing Gate, Cantilevered Gate, Rolling Gates, Bi-Fold Gates, and Sliding Gates.
• GCC – Gulf Cooperation Council

• HMI – Human Machine Interface – Human Machine Interface refers to the programmable logic controller that communicates between the vehicle barrier system and the operator. Simply, the PLC uses HMI to display certain functions and data for the operator. It provides specific outputs for ease of maintenance, troubleshooting, and interfacing (example – # of Cycles). This is a highly recommended option for any vehicle barrier system.
• HPU – Hydraulic Power Unit – These are the units that drive the hydraulic barriers. Some configurations have one HPU powering several vehicle barrier systems.
• HPU Heaters – see Cold Weather Package for HPU.
• Hand Held Lifting Device – I.E. Come-a-Long, Block and Tackle, chain fall, and hand crank winch.
• High Security – High security refers to the level of potential threat. High security locations are locations that have both a high traffic volume (both pedestrian and vehicle) either in proximity or actually through the location. High security locations also house substantial amounts of human, financial, or political capital. For example, an Embassy, Federal Reserve Bank, and Federal Courthouse are examples of a high security location.
• Hydraulic Bollard – A hydraulic bollard is operated by means of an HPU. The HPU pressurizes hydraulic oil or vegetable oil through hydraulic hose which then raises the barrier. The pressure is then released allowing the barrier to lower. See HPU for more information. Bollards can also come in semi-automatic, hydraulic.

• IBC – International Business Company
• ICE – Immigration and Customs Enforcement
• ICITAP – International Criminal Investigative Training Assistance Program
• IMF – International Monetary Fund
• INCSR – International Narcotics Control Strategy Report
• INM – See INL
• INL – Bureau for International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement Affairs/(Matters)
• IRS – Internal Revenue Service
• IRS/CID – Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division
• IR Sensor Beams – Infrared sensor beams are used in conjunction with some systems or are integrated into a systems design. In some cantilevered gates, IR sensor beams are used as a safety device in replacement or in addition to safety loops. In the case of ultra portable barriers, IR sensor beams are an integrated safety option.
• ISO – International Organization for Standardization.
• Installation – Installation is the process by which the barrier or systems deployed and activated. This process varies greatly with the type or barrier and actuator employed by the system. Some VBS companies prefer to sell only equipment, and other prefer to install the products they manufacture. In general, quality installation is very important to future operation of security products. For more information, visit our Services Page. TAG is the premier installer in the industry.
• Internal Hydraulic Pump – Also known as the “Submerged Hydraulic Pump”. This is a hydraulic pump which is physically installed inside of the hydraulic fluid reservoir as opposed to being plumbed outside of it.

• JICC – Joint Information Coordination Center
• JIATF-S/W – Joint Interagency Task Force South and Joint Interagency Task Force West

• K4 – This is the lowest crash rating certification for a vehicle barrier system by the Department of State. This certification states that the vehicle barrier system will stop a 15,000 lb vehicle traveling 30 mph within 3 meters or less. For more information, see L Ratings.
• K8 – This a mid-range crash rating certification for a vehicle barrier system by the Department of State. This certification states that the vehicle barrier system will stop a 15,000 lb vehicle traveling 40 mph within 3 meters or less. For more information, see L Ratings.
• K12 – This is the highest crash rating certified for a vehicle barrier system by the Department of State. This certification states that the vehicle barrier system will stop a 15,000 lb vehicle traveling 50 mph within 3 meters or less. For more information, see L Ratings.
• K54 – This is a non official extension of the DOS K Ratings. It is not a widespread standard and holds no official weight in determining the strength of a barrier. The K Ratings remain the industry standard.
• K Rating – The Department of State has issued K4, K8, K12 ratings.
• Keypad – The keypad is an access control device integrated into the vehicle barrier system allowing access to the site. A keypad is easily connected to systems with advanced HPUPLC’s whether the system is pre-existing or new construction. This is something more typical at moderate security locations unless supervised by guard personnel.

L Rating – L Ratings are a part of the Department of State’s K Rating system. The L Rating refers to the distance of penetration into the safe zone allowed during crash testing. The Department of State lists only L3 rated barriers. The Department of Defense lists L2 and L3 barriers. There are L1, L2, and L3 ratings. For more information, see K Ratings.

• L3 = Penetration 7-30 Meters (98.4’)
• L2 = Penetration 1-7 Meters (23’)
• L1 = Penetration up to 1 Meter (3.3’)

• MLAT – Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty
• MOU – Memorandum of Understanding
• MTL – Maximum Thrust Load.
• Maintenance – Maintenance on vehicle barrier systems is crucial to longevity of operation. Most often, vehicle barrier systems employ advanced methods to actuate a large steel framework in a short period of time. Through this process, a barrier must maintain a level of organization to operate correctly over time. Some barriers require less maintenance than others, but ALL barriers will need some TLC from time to time. Maintenance agreements are typically available by manufacturers with the expertise to do scheduled maintenance. For more information, visit our Services Page.
• Manual Operation Hand Pump – The manual operation hand pump is a handle and pump directly connected to the hydraulic line on the HPU. This hand crank raises and lowers the barrier in the event of some type of failure to power or the barrier itself. In the case of a power emergency, a manual hand pump is something that can be very important.
• Mobile Barrier – see Portable Barrier.

• NAB – New Acquired Buildings
• NBRF – Northern Border Response Force
• NEC – New Embassy Compound
• NNICC – National Narcotics Intelligence Consumers Committee
• NOX – New Office Annex
• NAB – New Acquired Buildings
• NEC – New Embassy Compound
• NEMA – National Electrical Manufacturers Association.
• NOX – New Office Annex
• Net Style Barrier – An above-ground barrier system in which the blocking component(s) is a retractable heavy duty net.

• OAS – Organization of American States
• OAS/CICAD – Inter-American Drug Abuse Control Commission
• OBO – Overseas Building Operations
• OFC – Offshore Financial Center
• OPBAT – Operation Bahamas, Turks and Caicos
• OPDAT – Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development Assistance and Training
• OBO – The Overseas Building Operations is a DOS group charged with the building and maintenance of US facilities around the globe. For example, a United States Embassy or Consulates office fall under the OBO umbrella.333999
• Oversight – Oversight refers to a level of service available from TAG. Oversight service typically is onsight technical assistance for the duration of an installation. This generally is a more long term level of assistance than a Tech Assist service. This type of technical expertise is often required of the manufacturer to verify and certify that the barrier was installed to DOS and manufacturer specifications.

• PLC- Programmable Logic Controls – PLC’s use HMI to bridge the gap between technology and real world operation vastly increasing flexibility and functionality. For example, the PLC generates and displays reports and information on the HPU such as cycle time, EFO count, etc… Norshield Security utilizes advanced PLC’s which are totally integrated into the NX-Series HPU’s.
• Perimeter Detection – Perimeter Detection is a focal point of security for any high security location. Physical security is meant to present a formidable obstacle to a potential intruder while perimeter detection relies on monitoring and tracking the intruder. For example, a Fiber Optic System either installed on a fence or in ground will detect any movement or activity on a established perimeter.
• Perimeter Security – Perimeter security consists of deterring, preventing, monitoring, and defending against penetration of a secured, established perimeter. This type of security is the first line of physical defense for high security locations.
• Physical Security – Physical security is comprised of the actual, physical barrier implemented to deter and/or delay a potential intruder. For example, a vehicle barrier is implemented as physical security to present a deterrence and an obstacle to a potential intruder. In high security locations, physical security is designed to stop a trained intruder from entering under a set of established parameters.
• Pneumatic Bollard – A pneumatic bollard is designed to use air to raise the bollard. These bollards use compressed air moved through tubes similar to hydraulic line which then pressurizes the bollards to raise. Conversely, releasing the air would lower the bollards. Although innovative, hydraulic fluid holds energy far better as a more solid form than air making it much easier to move the bollards. Pneumatic bollards often require more maintenance and operation is not nearly as smooth nor as reliable as a hydraulic bollard. Pneumatic bollards were designed to be environmentally friendly as hydraulic oil was problematic for the EPA. With the use of vegetable oil, hydraulic barriers are now as environmentally as pneumatic and have better operation and lower maintenance. Bollards can also come in semi-automatic, hydraulic, pneumatic, or self-contained configurations.
• Portable Barrier – A portable barrier is a vehicle barrier that can be towed into a specific location, dropped, activated and then relocated in a minimal amount of time.
• Primary Control Panels – The primary control panel is used to operate the vehicle barrier system. It is usually housed inside a guard booth or at a secure location. The primary control panel can override the secondary control panel and should be kept in a remote, secure location. The control panel is typically a push button control station with up and down buttons, an EFO button, an annunciator, a key lockable power switch, and indicator lights for power, up status, and down status. The primary control panel may also be referred to as a master control panel as it controls the secondary or slave panel.
• Proximity Switches – Proximity switches are used to determine the position of the barrier. They give the signal necessary to operate Stop and Go Lights, and other optional equipment. The proximity switches are also used by advanced PLC’s for integrating a system which may have a set series of operation. For example, triggering the down position would also open a chain link fence gate automatically. Proximity switches can be configured to be fully up or fully down depending upon which position needs to be monitored.

• Rising Curb – see Wedge Barriers.
• Road Plate Style Barrier – see Surface Mount barrier.
• Rolling Cylinder – see Wedge Barriers.
• Rolling Gates – Rolling gates move the gate leaf across the roadway or lane(s) by utilizing a wheel rolling across the road surface. This is a simple gate and is typically more cost efficient. Maintenance is lower than other types of gate. This type of gate is more often moderate to low security due to the size and weight of the gate leaf required on DOS crash tested gates. See also, Track Gate, Cantilevered Gate, and Bi-Fold Gates.
• Run Out – Run out is the space needed for a sliding gate when opening. This may be problematic for sites that have pre-existing buildings or other obstructions.

• SECI – South East Europe Cooperative Initiative
• SEED – Support for East European Democracy Act (1994)
• SAE – Society of Automotive Engineers.
• Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Grant Program – This new USDOT grant program establishes a new “Safe Streets and Roads for All” program, that supports $5 billion in local initiatives over the next 5 years to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets, commonly referred to as “Vision Zero” or “Toward Zero Deaths” initiatives.”
• Safety Loop – A safety loop is a wired or preformed loop that is typically installed below grade several feet in front and behind a vehicle barrier. These loops prevent accidental operation of the barrier when a vehicle is present.
• Safety Loop Detector – The safety loop detector is the internal portion of the safety loop system. The safety loop detector is the internal module that interacts with proximity switches and advanced PLC’s.
• Secondary Control Panels – The secondary control panel is used to operate the vehicle barrier system from a local guard house or in close proximity to the vehicle barrier. It is usually housed inside a guard booth or at a secure location. The primary control panel can override the secondary control panel and should be kept in a remote, secure location. The control panel is typically a push button control station with up and down buttons, an EFO button, an annunciator, a key lockable Power switch, and indicator lights for power, up status, and down status.
• Secondary Operating Parts – These are electro-mechanical, hydraulic, pneumatic and electronic parts of the Vehicle Barrier or Anti-Ram Gate System that are not physically attached to the system blocking components (i.e. hydraulic and pneumatic power units, pumps, motors, motor contactors, valves, reservoirs, accumulators, gauges, step-down transformers, and associated electronics). This does not include the operator control panels.
• Semi-Automatic – A bollard that utilizes a gas spring for operation. A Semi-Automatic bollard or barrier may also be referred to as a manual barrier. However, a semi-automatic bollard or barrier has an assist to help raise the large weight of the bollard or barrier and make it manageable.
• Service – Often, barriers that have been in use for long periods of time, accidentally hit, or barriers that have stopped an attack will require service. This service can range from replacing crucial parts to aesthetically reconditioning the barrier. For more information, visit our Services Page.
• Shallow Foundation Wedge Barrier – The shallow foundation wedge barrier is an in-ground barrier system in which the blocking component(s) are typically a pivoting wedge that rises from the road surface. These blocking components are housed in a shallow steel case. The design of this barrier cuts down on installation, maintenance, and cost while maintaining incredible stopping power. This wedge barrier may also be referred to as a blocker, rising plate barrier, rising curb barrier, rotating cylinder, etc…
• Sliding Gate – Sliding gates open by moving a gate leaf either from left to right or vice versa epending upon the handing of the gate. These gates need to have run out room to operate. Sliding gates can come in a variety of designs. See also, Track Gate, Cantilevered Gate, Rolling Gates, and Bi-Fold Gates.
• Sump Pump – The sump pump is used to remove water that has accumulated in a sump pit. It helps to remove unwanted water from the barrier/bollard cavity. This is required equipment for wet climates to ensure the barrier works properly into the future.
• Surface Mounted Barrier – This barrier is mounted flush with the concrete surface or mounted on the surface of the concrete. This is done by using chemical bolts to bolt down the barrier. The blocking component(s) is a heavy-duty structural plate. These barriers are typically lower on the security spectrum. This barrier may also be referred to as a Flush Mount Barrier or a Bolt Down Barrier.
• Swing Gate – These gates open by swinging the gate leaf around the fence or buttress to which it is hinged. These gates are typically low security and are some of the most cost effective. However, they often come in manual configurations being opened by security personnel, and are rarely crash rated as hinging is problematic with a large heavy gate leaf. For more information on the different types of gates, see also Track Gate, Cantilevered Gate, Rolling Gates, Bi-Fold Gates, and Sliding Gates.

• TAG – Total Automation Group. The premier supplier, installer, integrator of vehicle barriers. TAG is a value added company with full sequencing and integration abilities.
• Tech Assist – Tech Assist is a service that includes but may not necessarily be limited to having a technical representative on site to test, commission, train security and operational staff on the systems, and certify the installation of a vehicle barrier system(s). Generally, Tech Assist is for 3-5 days at the end of an installation. For a longer term installation assistance program, see Oversight. For more information, visit our Services Page.
• Threat Assessment – A threat assessment is a thorough appraisal of the threat of attack to a certain site. For example, a vehicular bomb attack would be a particular area of focus. These are done by a trained threat assessment professional or team.
• Three Phase Power Monitors – Three phase power monitors are provided in locations without steady power. These locations are prone to power spikes and losses which may trigger malfunction of the HPU. Technically, this option monitors all three phases of power to the motor not allowing the motor to run unless power is steady throughout all three phases. This is a safety device that protects the motor. This is more common in barriers provided to remote locations or internationally where power is not standardized.
• Track Gate – Track gates are sliding gates that utilize an in road or above road track to guide the gate leaf across the roadway or lane(s). These tracks are typically simple solutions and may be cost effective equipment. Track gates are typically much higher in maintenance and can develop more operational issues than a Cantilevered Gate, Rolling Gates, or Bi-Fold Gates.
• Traffic Arm Barriers – Traffic arm barriers are typically not crash rated and not meant to be anything but a traffic control arm. These can be used in conjunction with in ground barriers as a visual traffic control device.

• UN Convention – 1988 United Nations Convention Against Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances
• UNODC – United Nations Office for Drug Control and Crime
• USAID – Agency for International Development
• USCG – United States Coast Guard
• USG – United States Government
• UVI – Under Vehicle Illumination. These systems illuminate the undercarriage of a vehicle for inspection. For more information, visit our Products Page.
• Ultra Portable Barrier – An ultra portable barrier is a vehicle barrier that can not only be towed into a specific location, dropped, activated and then relocated in a minimal amount of time, but one that has a full range of totally integrated features that work without access to external power. For example, a portable barrier may require external power to operate stop and go lights whereas an ultra portable barrier has integrated stop/go lights working off the internal power source.

• VBS- Vehicle Barrier Systems – This term refers to the entire package provided for perimeter force protection. In most cases, this includes an actuator (usually, hydraulic or electric), a barrier, and controls for operation of the barrier. In any given configuration or site, there may be numerous systems all working together.
• Vegetable Oil – To have a more environmentally friendly HPU, vegetable oil may be used as a substitute to hydraulic oil. This is a more costly option than hydraulic oil.
• Vision Zero Program – Vision Zero is a strategy to eliminate all traffic fatalities and severe injuries, while increasing safe, healthy, equitable mobility for all. First implemented in Sweden in the 1990’s, Vision Zero proved successful across Europe – and now it’s gaining momentum across cities in the United States.

• Wedge Barrier – The wedge barrier is an in-ground barrier system in which the blocking component(s) are typically a pivoting wedge that rises from the road surface. The wedge barrier has evolved over the years to become available as a shallow foundation wedge barrier. The wedge barrier may also be referred to as a blocker, rising plate barrier, rising curb barrier, rotating cylinder, etc…
• Wedge Heater – This package is meant for cold weather locations that average temperatures around freezing. The wedge heater is located on the barrier itself and provides protection against ice build up on operationally important parts.