Alarm Monitoring
Alarm Monitoring
Remote Alarm Monitoring
Whilst the vast majority of Intruder Alarm Systems simply ring an external bell or siren, many are capable of much more. The ABACUS range of intruder alarm panels from Knight Installations can be easily upgraded to allow remote signalling.
There are basically two main types of communications device commonly in use today.
A Digital Communicator
A digital communicator transmits alarm messages via the Telephone Network and can be connected to any standard telephone line whether provided by British Telecom or your local cable operator, without modification or alteration to your service. It is recommended however, that connection is made to a dedicated "out-going calls only" telephone line, or that the line has an ex-directory telephone number.
BT Redcare / Redcare GSM
A more secure method uses the Redcare Network to transmit alarm signals to the monitoring centre. Redcare uses an existing BT telephone line (but not usually one connected to a fax or modem).
In a system employing RedCare signalling your alarm panel is fitted with a special device known as a STU (Subscriber Terminal Unit). The STU has a permanent communication path with a receiver in the local telephone exchange. The exchange receivers are constantly monitored by the RedCare Host Computer which in turn has a permanent connection to the Alarm Receiving Centre.
Signals are sent immediately via the open communications path without the need to dial up, and can even be sent whilst the line is being used for other calls. In addition to this the Host constantly polls the STU to check on its condition. If the path to the STU has been damaged or tampered with the Central Station will be notified that the telephone line has been cut.
Redcare GSM takes the principal of secure signalling a step further by adding a back-up service across the GSM (Radio/Mobilephone) Network. If either signalling path should fail for any reason, a back-up alternate path will continue to signal alarm conditions to the monitoring centre. Increasingly, insurers are demanding Redcare GSM connections for high risk / commercial installations as its meets the highest standards laid down in the new European Standard for Alarm Installations BS EN50131.
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