Security and Alarm Systems Blog

We have a very good understanding of what makes a security control panel desirable to the end-user, and this is a list that I came across today explaining why the DMP XR500N is a great option for commercial applications. The integration options are phenomenal with this panel. Read below for the list of features I’m referring to:

System Link ™ Enables remote XR500N programming and control.
XR500N Advanced, integrated control panel for access control, fire, and intrusion detection.
714 Loop expander adds four Supervised burglary zones for use with fire and burglar alarm devices.
714-8 Loop expander adds eight Supervised burglary zones for use with fire and burglar alarm devices.
714-16 Loop expander adds 16 Supervised burglary zones for use with fire and burglar alarm devices.
716 Output expander module provides four programmable Form C relays and four zone-following annunciator outputs for a variety of output applications.
734 Wiegand interface module integrates the use of Wiegand-type access control readers and door strikes.
5455 Prox ProII card reader for proximity credentials.

We have noticed a spike in the need for businesses to protect the data centers or server rooms in their offices, especially in Irvine and San Diego, California. There are several forms of security we offer in this area. The most common needs involve a door access control system, so that only authorized personnel may enter the room. There is also a helpful option in surveillance, where the server room is secure by recording the area with security cameras. Often times, it is possible to add door access equipment long with an existing security system, which will save you a good amount of money. Another great addition to server room security is a temperature sensor. Everyone knows that computers generate heat, yet they are also sensitive to high temperatures, so it is important to keep your server room temperature controlled. If the server room’s temperature reaches a certain temperature, a signal will be sent through your security system, and you will be notified immediately. This will keep your data safe, and prevent a gigantic headache, or even worse a complete loss of your companies information.

If you are interested in a free consultation, call us at (800) 577-2527.

There is a secret that not many people know, and it is a way to get much more out of your security system. The secret is that almost any sensor or electrical measurement component can be wired into a security system. This allows for an almost limitless array of add-ons, but specifically for you there are probably only a few.

An almost universal add-on is a panic button. We have added many panic buttons into existing security systems here in the San Diego area. Most offices have a lobby with a desk, so it makes sense to put a panic button under that desk to notify the police as soon as a situation begins.

Other add-ons we have installed are very specific to an industry or need. In one case, we installed temperature monitoring sensors in massive refrigeration units to detect when a refrigerator has failed, and needs to be fixed. This install was for a major food distributor, and it saves them thousands in lost inventory when a refrigerator fails because the food can be moved quickly and saved from exposure to heat. What is great about this is that we were able to save then money by tying their specialty sensors into their security system. This arrangement allowed them to avoid having to purchase an entirely new system.

Another case where a security system add-on helped a customer was for a maritime museum in San Diego. There are two boats the have fire systems. They are floating in the harbor, and have visitors daily, so a fire system is a requirement. However, they also need to know if the ships are taking in water. We installed water sensors at the bottom to give an early notification if there maybe a leak. Again, this is tied into a Fire Alarm system, so our customers didn’t have to buy an entirely new system.

Call us today if you would like to talk about adding some specialty equipment to your existing system, or if you need a security system in San Diego or across California.

We recently had the honor of being listed in the “50 Best Safety and Security Blogs,” by Forensic Science Technician.

The Security and Alarm Systems Blog was praised as “A great resource for information on home alarm systems. This blog will let you know about scams, what the best deals are, and even step by step instructions on installation. There are also posts on fire alarms and security also.”

We strive to bring the best information about security systems, and the security and life safety industry. However, we are a very young blog, so we are very excited to be mentioned as the 18th best blog on the topic of Home Security.

Six out of every 10 employees stole company data when they left their job last year, said a study of US workers. Most American businesses fail to take important steps to prevent data theft.

You are probably asking yourself “How can I stop an employee from stealing company data, and not interfere with their productivity.”

Company Data theft can be taken into two categories: Computer-based and physical. To remedy any holes in your computer-based security, constantly consult your IT department (or IT company) to see if they feel your company is up to date on information security software and processes.

Progressive Technology Security Systems can’t help you with information theft, but we do offer some very viable solutions to keep employees from restricted areas, and keep people honest while in your business. First, we offer state-of-the-art door access and intercom solutions, which keep employees from entering restricted areas. One strategy to keep your information safe is to allow only your most trusted managers to vital areas of the office, such as the server or IT room. Door Access Control will prevent anyone without a magnetic card, keyfob, code, or a specific fingerprint, to gain access to areas with sensitive information.

Another great security tool is surveillance. People just act better if they know that they are being watched. A Camera Security System is a great way to keep employees in line, without creating a culture of mistrust. Everyone just assumes that a camera system is just to record an intruder in the night, but there are so many workplace applications.

If you are interested, and would like to know more about Door Access or Camera Security, please click on the links or call us at (800) 577-2527.

On the TV show Mythbusters, the two smart and daring hosts directed their efforts towards beating a fingerprint scanning door access device. The first attempt involved a plastic mold of a fingerprint. It did not work the first try, but it did work after warming it with his breath.

Next, a gelatinous mold of a finger was used, and this also opened the door. So far, I’m not very impressed with this piece of hardware, and I’m wondering what brand it is (it is definitely nothing we use, I have never seen this door access device before in my life).

The grand finale is when they scan a copy of a fingerprint and hold the piece of paper to the fingerprint scanner. It actually opened the door. You will notice they keep saying that the manufacturer says that no one has ever cracked their device. Well, now someone has, and on national television. Too bad for you. Just goes to show that crackpot equipment has no place in the Security industry.

About SystemLink
The SystemLink Software package by Digital Monitoring Products (DMP) is an end-user alarm panel management software solution that allows you to easily maintain important panel operations from your personal computer. Through System Link, you are able to setup new alarm system users and System Link operators, configure new panel accounts, monitor system status, silence alarms, and more. SystemLink operates with all DMP Security Control Panels.

SystemLink and your Security System
With SystemLink, you can easily make changes to your user codes, track your systems usage with opening/closing reports, and even silence and alarm. One practical use that a homeowner found for SystemLink was busting his maid. She told him she had worked for ten hours, but upon tracking the times that the security system recorded doors opening and closing, she had actually worked 5 hours. So much for the honor system.

If your home or office is broken into, SystemLink can isolate the point of entry, and give insight into other details of the break-in such as which motion detectors were set off, and in what order. This recreation of a burglary could help a detective find key evidence.

For more information on DMP SystemLink Software, please call us at (800) 577-2527.

Burglary is a serious threat for any business, but vandalism can be just as costly. Graffiti & Broken Windows can cost just as much as a petty “Smash & Grab” burglar. But, there are preventative options available, mainly in the form of Camera Security Systems; also known as a Surveillance System, CCTV or DVR System.
The logic behind a Camera System is that when a burglar or vandal sees that their actions will be recorded, then they are less likely to target your office. If they do decide to burglarize or vandalize your business regardless, then you at least have a recording of them to hand over to a detective. This greatly increases the chance of catching the thief and recovering your property.
If you are interested in Camera Security, or have any questions, Please call us at (800) 577-2527 or you can also visit our website.

In the turmoil of today’s economy, it’s important to get the most out of every dollar, especially as it relates to security. Crime increases in poor economic times. This blog entry is meant to offer some ways to gain the most out of your partnership with your security company.
Technology
New Security Technology comes out every day, and sometimes you can spend $300 to install something that will save you $400 over the next year. Also, sometimes the technology you needed was not out when your system was installed, but now it is. If your system has an inconvenience that bothers you, call your Alarm Company and ask them if an affordable solution is available. If they say no, call their competitor.
Integration
I’ve mentioned it before, but you can now add fire alarm, door access and intercom components into an existing security system panel. This can improve your Security while coming under-budget on the project.
Referral Deals
Any company is happy to accept referral clients, and it is only fair that you get something in return when you refer a customer. You can get a free month of monitoring or maybe a credit for and upgrade.
Keep your Security Company to their Agreement
You paid for the system, and you pay every month for your monitoring and/or service, so make sure you are getting everything you pay for. If your system has a problem and needs service, call your Alarm Company and ask if your system is still under warranty or if the problem is due to faulty equipment.