Innovations in Intrusion Detection
Recent technological advancements are bringing improved intrusion detection and hosted security capabilities for larger enterprises such as those found in the commercial market. Helping drive the momentum is remote monitoring, smart sensors and new graphic user interfaces.
[IMAGE]12204[/IMAGE]Asset sensors can be used for any type of object that needs protection. Customers seeking to protect PCs or monitors, for example, can do so by simply sticking one of the small asset protection devices directly onto the object to be protected. When the object is moved, the asset sensor is triggered and a message can be sent to the central station, as well as to the end user’s smartphone via the remote service platform.
End users have embraced the freedom of using remote services, since it gives them the advantage and ability to manage their own security systems. And, they are reassured that the security system they have in place provides greater value to their business than just on-site security.
In addition to remote monitoring capabilities, smart sensor technology is being utilized to reduce installation and testing time, as well as allowing for higher performance of intrusion and fire systems. Polling loop technology like V-Plex from Honeywell utilizes two wires, provides point identification and supports devices that draw significantly less current than conventional four-wire devices. This reduces the need for additional power supplies. Free topology wiring provides installation flexibility, and branch isolators can save hours of troubleshooting time.
Smart contact functionality using technology like V-Plex has benefits that include:
Reduce unwanted traffic — When a system is disarmed, the system tells smart motion sensors to refrain from sending unwanted detection messages. For example, motion sensors in schools detect motion throughout the day as students and faculty move from class to class along crowded hallways. The system is inundated with so many low priority messages, it may not process critical messages as quickly when it should. With smart contact technology, unwanted traffic is reduced and critical messages are more quickly processed.
Automate test mode — Instead of having an installer climb up and down a ladder to flip the test mode switch on each individual motion sensor at the school, the system now allows for smart sensors to be automatically put into test mode when the installer enters test mode from the keypad. This automated test mode helps simplify the installation.
Anti-masking functionality — If an intruder covers a motion sensor with tape, it ceases to serve its purpose. However, with anti-masking technology, a smart motion sensor will sense that it is being covered and automatically send an alert to the central station and/or to the end user’s smart phone, when applicable.
It’s All About Simplicity
The ability to integrate multiple electronic security and fire/life-safety functions in a single system, as well as to interoperate with external systems such as HVAC and lighting, is a game-changer for installing security cont
ractors.
You can benefit from this movement by providing solutions that can be enhanced with remote control and monitoring services, smart sensor technology and support of graphic touchscreen keypads (see side bar). Trends like these are taking commercial projects to a new level by simplifying the installation process and by providing the end customer with easy onsite system operation, as well as the ability to manage and control their own systems remotely.
The overriding theme here is simplicity. Advanced capabilities have been proliferating in the security industry for some time now. However, ease-of-use shortcomings have been drawbacks for end users who have multiple facilities to manage, not to mention security dealers who have been tasked with selling these systems.
Making systems more user-friendly and easier to manage for both installers and end users continues to be the biggest driver that will ultimately increase technological adoption for both groups.
Linda Cortese is Senior Manager, Commercial Products, Honeywell Security & Communications. She can be contacted at (631) 704-2513.
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