Frequently Asked Questions about Burglar Alarm Systems

"Wireless" security devices. Do they really work well, and are they easy to use?
Yes on both counts! their effectiveness has been proven time and again over the years in millions of installations. Their rock-solid stability and long battery life make them a popular choice among homeowners and dealers alike. They give installers the flexibility they need to overcome obstacles like brick walls, cement floors and cathedral ceilings; and no drilling holes preserves the beauty of your home and results in cleaner, faster installations.

I have a pet! Does that mean I can't install a PIR?
Absolutely not. Recent innovations in security technology have resulted in the creation of "pet immune" motion detectors-allowing dog and cat lovers to enjoy the same level of protection they would receive with a standard PIR. These state-of-the-art sensors provide "pet immunity" for animals weighing up to 100 lbs. Pet immune PIRs allow your pet to move about freely but can still detect an intruder's movement.

What is a PIR?
A passive infrared motion detector (PIR) is an electronic security device that detects intruders by "sensing" motion or body heat in the area being protected. Most PIRs are designed to be used when your family is away from home or when no one will be passing through the area "covered" by the PIR.

What are magnetic contacts?
Magnetic contacts are two-part devices used to safeguard windows and doors. One part of the contact is a switch installed in the window or door jam; the other contains a magnet and is placed in the window or door itself. Any noticeable shift in contact with the switch results in an alarm.

Frequently Asked Questions about Digital CCTV Systems

What is Digital CCTV?
Traditionally video was recorded on old Tape or analogue based systems, with technology advancing video is now recorded on a system similar to a DVD player, this allows the video to be stored on a standard hard drive like those found in computers.

How many days of video can be stored?
The number of days that can be stored depends on various things such as the number of cameras, recording settings and hard drive size.  As an example our standard 4 camera system with a 250Gig hard drive will store up to a month of video for 4 cameras.

How can I view my business cameras from home?
All that is required for remote viewing is and ADSL internet line at work and at home, it is recommended that you also have a static or fixed IP address for you business internet connection, your router must also allow incoming traffic.

What cameras should I use?
There are many cameras available for various situations and environments.  Inside a retail environment that has artificial light the small dome cameras work well and are cost effective, for areas that are exposed to high levels of varying light an Auto Iris camera is recommended as it has the ability to reduce the size of the camera Iris depending on the light. In large retail areas or yards a High speed dome camera is very effective as it can be programmed to patrol a certain route or can be controlled remotely.

How many cameras should I install?
Depending on the area to be covered, more is always better, this will ensure that nothing is missed.

When are Infrared night cameras effective?
Infrared cameras are very effective for small areas that are not lit at night, for example the back door of a business. We do not recommend Infrared cameras in any environment such as large unlit yards or driveways as cars can blind the camera at night rendering it almost useless.

How do I get Video off my Digital Video recorder?
Our systems allow for various methods including DVD/CD, Flash memory or network connection.