The taut wire sensor can span 200 feet with wire supported every 20 feet. Sensors can be positioned at the top of the fence in addition to the bottom and middle to prevent both climb-over and cut-through.

The taut wire sensor is installed using a turnbuckle which is tightened causing a spring loaded eyebolt on the QS-177 to extend to a factory set calibration mark on the shaft. This aligns an internal magnetic contact in the closed loop state. Cutting or pulling on the taut wire will move the internal magnet out of position and cause the switch to open and alarm. Sensitivity can be adjusted by adjusting the turnbuckle as desired.