Alarm systems communicate
with the outside world in many different ways.
Bells only system – these systems will just sound internally and externally when the alarm is triggered.
Self-monitoring – these systems will sound internally and externally, but will also contact you either via text message, email or pre-recorded voice message when the alarm is triggered.
Monitored alarms – these systems are connected to an alarm receiving centre (ARC) and in the event of an activation, the ARC will contact the site and keyholders to notify the alarm has been triggered.
Monitored alarms with police response – these work as per monitored alarm systems above, however the ARC will also contact the police in the event of a confirmed signal to notify of an intruder.
Alarm monitoring is the most effective and reliable way for your security system to communicate with you. When activated your alarm will send coded signals to an alarm monitoring station (ARC), who will contact you or your keyholders immediately, and where appropriate, the police.
Alarm monitoring options
If your alarm is monitored through an alarm receiving centre (ARC), regular preventative maintenance is required. The frequency of this will depend on the grade of your system and some maintenance can be completed remotely.
You should always ask your insurance company whether there are any specific requirements for monitoring your system before taking out an alarm monitoring contract.
Choosing the best alarm monitoring option for you
The alarm monitoring option you choose will depend on the following four key factors:
What makes you feel safe and secure and gives you peace of mind.
The level of protection you require.
Your insurance requirements.
Your budget.
Alarm monitoring solutions
Digital Communicator
A digital communicator links your alarm to the ARC via a phone line. The ARC will interpret the signals sent from the alarm and contact your site, you, your nominated keyholders, or the police if necessary. A digital communicator is the most cost effective way of communicating with the ARC. Prices start from £19 per month (including all monitoring and maintenance charges).
Redcare Essential IP
BT Redcare Essential IP will make it easy to update your PSTN system and can connect with your broadband service via Ethernet or WiFi.
It exceeds SP2 or SP4 performance levels, so it reports path faults to the ARC faster than traditional digi communicators. Making it the perfect set-up for future-proofing low to higher risk premises.
Redcare Advanced
Redcare Advanced provides alarm signalling for your home or business that can change with your needs. With an IP connection and two 4G SIMS you can be confident that it delivers a reliable service.
It's monitored day and night. So if something triggers your alarm you know it will be disovered quickly.
CSL DualCom Digi Air®
The CSL DualCom Digi Air® is a wireless digital communicator, which connects to the ARC via all mobile networks. Using the multi-network WorldSIM to connect to the ARC instead of a phone line increases the reliability of your systems and eliminates costs when communicating with the ARC. This means you only pay one annual fixed price for your alarm to be fully monitored. The CSL DualCom Digi Air® won the PSI Communications Product of the Year 2014 and is compliant to Grade 2 standards. Prices start from £23.50 per month (including all monitoring and maintenance charges).
CSL DualCom
The CSL DualCom unit primarily uses GPRS and GSM to connect with the ARC, and PSTN or IP wired paths as a backup. The CSL DualCom is available in three variants: Grades 2, 3 and 4. Should you wish to increase your grade in the future, we will be able to carry that out for you remotely without the need for costly site visits.
To discuss any of the options above, or for more information, please call us on 01908 483233, 01205 449399 or 01733 598039. Alternatively, you can email us or request your free, no obligation security audit.