A group of people working at a desk

Smart Security System Design

By Ryan Bell / February 2, 2018 / Comments Off on Smart Security System Design

We’ve given a lot of advice for using a security system in previous posts. It goes without saying, though, that those tips only become useful once you have a system installed. In this week’s discussion topic, we’ll rewind to the start of the security system design process. We’ll dive into some of the basic decisions…

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The How, Where, When, and Why of Access Control

By Ryan Bell / January 25, 2018 / Comments Off on The How, Where, When, and Why of Access Control

Many business owners have an interest in some form of access control system, but do not quite know where to start. These systems offer nearly endless options from both a technology and a usage standpoint. They play a large role in preventing theft, both from outside sources and even from employees. Decisions loom every step of…

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A hand hol

5 Security Measures That Deter Employee Theft

By Ryan Bell / January 19, 2018 / Comments Off on 5 Security Measures That Deter Employee Theft

Most of us have walked into a store and noticed security cameras installed to deter theft. Cameras can discourage thieves before they act, or identify a thief after an item has been stolen. However, you may be surprised how often items or money go missing as a result of employee theft. A 2015 Forbes article set out to measure the cost…

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cartoon of an old 2G cell tower near a new 4G cell tower

How the 2G Sunset Will Affect Your Alarm System

By David Condon / March 31, 2016 /

What is the 2G Sunset? 2G refers to the 2nd generation of cellular communication networks that have been in use since 1991.  Since then, most cell phone networks have been upgraded to the much more powerful 3G and 4G technologies (4G is also referred to as LTE or VoLTE by some providers).  Recently, AT&T and…

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cartoon of a cat5 camera cable getting ready to box a bnc camera cable

Cameras: Choosing IP vs Analog

By Ryan Bell / February 3, 2016 /

So you’ve decided you want to buy a camera system for your home or business. Perhaps you need the cameras because you had a burglary you’re responding to or maybe you just want to deter an incident from ever happening. Either way, you’ll want to make sure you’re an educated consumer before making a purchase.…

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VoIP is a Poor Choice for Alarm Systems

By Ryan Bell / April 26, 2015 /

Over the past decade and a half or so, major communications companies such as Comcast, Time Warner, and Charter have begun pushing internet-based phone service as part of their communications and cable options. This phone service is often part of a “bundle” that allows you to pay one rate for phone, internet, and cable access.…

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