The security industry offers a diverse selection of intrusion alarm systems with countless features and functions. As a result, choosing the right system for your facility can feel overwhelming.
On top of this, there are countless confusing terms that you’re likely to encounter as you research your intrusion alarm system. To help you wade through these complexities, we’ve provided a list of the ten most confusing terms you should familiarize yourself with:
Top 10 Confusing Terms
- Wireless: The term wireless is used to describe devices that utilize radio frequencies to send signals to their control panel.
- Mobile Access: This refers to systems that allow you to access their functionality via mobile devices. This functionality can let the user arm or disarm the intrusion alarm system, view security statuses, monitor building functions, or even check connected cameras.
- Cloud: This technology allows you to access files and services through the internet from anywhere. Technically, the cloud is a collection of computers with large storage capabilities.
- NVR: Network Video Recorder (NVR) is a system that records video to a mass storage device. The NVR is equipped with a video management system which allows live viewing and playback of connected cameras.
- Software as a Service (SaaS): This distribution model consists of third-party providers hosting applications and making them available to customers over the Internet.
- DIY Installation: DIY (Do-It-Yourself) is most closely tied to the at home wireless systems that have equipment that is easily set up in order to eliminate the need to hire a professional.
- Cellular Monitoring: This type of monitoring refers to systems that communicate wirelessly through a cellular uplink rather than an internet connection.
- Landline vs. Broadband: A landline intrusion alarm system utilizes a plain old telephone system (POTS) connection to transmit signals to a monitoring centre when an alarm is triggered. Conversely, a broadband system transmits a signal through a broadband internet connection, which is faster than the more traditional landline.
- 2-Way Voice: This is a very common feature that allows the monitoring centre to engage with potential intruders and/or users through an intercom that is tied to the control panel.
- Geo-fencing: Geo-fencing uses radio frequency identification (RFID) or global positioning systems (GPS) to identify geographic areas that trigger different responses from your security system. For example, you could set up your intrusion alarm system to disarm any time your key fob comes within a specific radius of the control panel.
These are just a few of the terms you may encounter while shopping for an intrusion alarm system. We hope this helpful list will provide you with some clarity and alleviate any possible confusion in your buyer’s journey.
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For 19 years, Bulldog Fire and Security has been an expert in Intrusion Alarm System installation, having installed a variety of systems in numerous applications across Southwestern, Ontario.
To learn more about Intrusion Alarm Systems and the role they can play in your building’s security, call us at 1 866 670 1590, email info@bulldogsecurity.ca, or fill out the contact form below.