The most reliable solution is a monitored alarm system that communicates with an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC). A third party provider runs the ARC, responding 24/7 to alarm signals by calling key holders and the local police or fire & rescue service.
The ARC, often referred to as Central Station, will use automated software to monitor and respond to alarms, but it will also be staffed, so there's no risk of technology failure preventing notification calls.
For large premises in remote locations, high risk properties, or properties that are occupied part time, you may find that a monitored alarm system is a requirement for your insurance policy. Most commercial premises use this kind of system. If you have particularly valuable items in your property, such as technology equipment, expensive jewellery or you run a business from home with computer storage or specialised equipment, we recommend a monitored intruder alarm system.
Single Path Signalling Key Features:
A single path signalling system can communicate using either the GSM mobile network or an Internet Connection. It can send more sophisticated information to the ARC. For example, it might report the type of alarm, such as a personal attack or intrusion activation, including the zone triggered within the property. The biggest advantage is that the signalling path itself is monitored. That means that if the IP Network is lost or the GSM or GPRS signal fails, the monitoring station will know about it and will treat contact the keyholders.
Pros:
Alarm activations are securely sent to a 24/7 monitored ARC that will always respond.
The signal path is monitored, so any attempt to tamper with it will be notified to the ARC.
It can send out more detailed information than a digital communicator, so key holders, police or the fire service are better informed and ready to deal with the situation when they arrive on site.
Cons:
You have to pay an annual subscription to the ARC.
You need to pay for a monthly SIM card subscription if you choose a mobile communications path.
Dual Path Signalling Key Features:
Instead of having one channel to communicate with, these systems have a primary and a back-up signalling path. That means if there's a fault or problem with the primary channel, such as the Internet Connection, it will automatically use the back-up channel, such as the GSM mobile network.
There are many combinations of signal paths you can choose, combining old and new technologies. Depending on the infrastructure you already have, or are prepared to invest in, you could combine two of mobile GSM Network 1, mobile GSM Network 2, and your broad-band service (IP).
There are lots of different types of these systems on the market as many companies have built services around their core communication technologies.
We commonly use DualCom and Orisec Connect products.
Pros:
Alarm activations are securely sent to a 24/7 monitored ARC that will always respond.
Dual signalling gives you added security because of the back up signalling path.
ARC notification within 40 seconds.
DualCom Pro is Grade 4 rated in the European Standards, meaning it's suitable for the highest identified level of risk.
You can choose GSM Roaming the system can use any UK mobile network and selects the strongest signal available. If one network is down, the system will use another.
Cons:
You have to pay an annual subscription to the monitoring station.
You will need an annual maintenance contract with us.
You need two reliable signalling paths.
We can supply and install Monitored Alarm Systems up to British Standards EN50131 / PD6662 risk Grade 3.