Anubis Systems Technologies

THE MODERN BURGLARY / ACCESS CONTROL SYSTEM

What is it?  What makes it work?  How does it work?  These are questions we will answer in the next few pages.  Take your time reading through the articles.  You can always email us with your more directed questions.  We will respond within twelve (12) hours of receiving your email (sometimes faster).

The "brains" or "guts" of a modern security/access control system is usually housed in a heavy gauge metal container or box with a hinged cover to allow access by trained personnel.  In no case should you attempt to open this unit or service it yourself.  Even though most common controls these days operate on a 12 volt DC bus system (this does not present an electrical hazard or danger), there may be higher voltage devices usually associated with turning on or flashing the premise lights in there as well.  Leave the servicing of the unit to a trained professional.  Contact your local Better Business Bureau, or follow this link:

(Please note that membership in any or all of these associations does NOT mean you can
relax your due vigilance. Remember, the more "homework" you do, the more comfortable you'll
feel with your purchase decision and the fewer "surprises" you'll have).

The system employs "peripheral" devices that act as the ears, eyes, and "mouth" of the main control unit.  These peripherals comprise motion detectors, glass breakage sensors, door contacts, sirens, smoke alarms, etc. (the list is almost endless).  The "brains" is usually connected to a telephone outlet so that the signals it generates are transmitted to a central agency or monitoring facility.  You have to have some means of arming/disarming (turning "on" and "off") the common control.  A simple key switch to a digital readout LCD, to specially encoded cards, to wireless actuators you place around your neck, or on your key fob turns the system on and off and can even track "changes" in the system and display them to you.  A stand-by battery supplies power to the entire unit (and the peripheral devices) in the event of a complete power failure or "brown-out".

There are two kinds of systems available. Most modern burglar alarms are a compromise between these two systems.
 
PERIMETER SECURITY:

In a perimeter system, the alarm provider, in consultation with the premise owner has determined that all physical access points to the premise will be protected. What this means is that all window openings, doors, vents, and louvres are secured from unauthorised entry. This form of security is the most expensive, but also represents the best way of protecting both property and individual people. A properly designed perimeter system will allow the home-owner's family or office personnel complete freedom of movement within the protected premise, and provide an immediate warning of anyone entering the area.
 
 INTERIOR SECURITY:

Also termed "space" protection. In this kind of system, motion sensors are strategically placed in areas of the home or business that are the most vulnerable to either theft or intrusion. This is the least expensive and best means of protecting "property" or things of value. In most cases, interior systems reflect the belief that most break-ins or thefts occur when the store is locked or the homeowners are away. The major drawback to this kind of system is the fact that the intruder actually gains physical access to the premise (he has to be inside and moving around within the protected area) for the alarm to be generated.

 LEASE VERSUS PURCHASE:

A Lease usually has a fixed term (usually three to five years renewable for consecutive one year terms), low (sometimes FREE) installation costs, but high monitoring or service charges.  Companies most often offer to allow the customer to purchase the equipment at a fair adjusted market value after the end of the initial term.  This can be viewed as a major disadvantage in that the actual cash expenditure over the term of the lease may be higher than an initial outright purchase.  The advantage is that the installing company usually offers free maintenance (excluding damage from outside sources) for the life of the lease contract.

THE "FREE" SYSTEM

Be wary of so called FREE systems. In most instances accepting such a system means you are subject to a minimal installation (two door contacts, a single motion sensor, a siren, keypad, and common control). This system is adequate for most apartments, but totally wrong for larger single family dwellings. In the latter instance, the sales person will attempt to "up sell" your system or offer extended protection by offering additional devices. Your FREE system now has a price tag.

THE "FEAR" SELL

This type of sales technique is no longer in common practice. It involved a sales person making vague (and sometimes specific) references to other break-ins or incidents in the prospective purchaser's neighbourhood. A variation of this technique still exists today, but is largely customer driven. If you have been the subject of a break-in, you must try to deal with your alarm system purchase objectively, and not as a reaction to the event, or from fear that it may happen again. You don't have to fortify your home to the point that your security system rivals that of the one used at the Loomis® armoured car depot. In most instances your insurance provider can suggest several good alarm service companies for you to call.

VOICE RESPONSE SYSTEMS

We've all been subject to ads flogging the latest and greatest. Security control panels that offer two way voice communication with a central monitoring station have been available for a number of years. If you're really keen on the technology ask your Dealer if their station's receiver is capable of receiving signals from a voice activated panel. Chances are he'll say yes as most of the central station receivers employed today have this option available.
 
 

The best security system in the world needs to be regularly tested. Most alarm manufacturers suggest a weekly test regimen, but this can be adjusted to a daily test should the need arise. All modern alarm equipment is capable of transmitting a test signal, and in most cases involving a "monitored" system, a daily test signal is utilized. This test signal verifies the communicator is operating correctly. It does not ensure the alarm system itself (or the peripheral devices it employs) is working. Consult your owners manual and follow the instructions of your own alarm provider in formulating your systems test schedule.

Got a question? Call us at 778-863-7147
or click on the scroll!