Security system integration means linking many electronic systems. And make them talk. For example, It links the access control. Alarm system. CCTV system. As a result, all those systems to be managed from one central platform to perform advanced system functions.
In the past, alarm systems were separate. So an operator had to switch from one to the other for monitoring and seeking informtion. As a result, there was a lot of waste of time. Once these systems are connected. A violation of the access control system would cause the alarm to sound. Prompt the camera to switch on and record the incident. And in the mean time, pop ups on a screen to alert the monitoring operator
An integrated security system can include the following systems:
- Video surveillance
- Video monitoring
- Access Control
- Anti burglary
- License plate recognition
- The building management system (BMS)
the following diagram shows the overlap of the security systems and the outcome of an integration.
Source: CCTV technology handbook. Homeland security july 2013
Security systems integration when an alarm occurs ?
Imagine that an alarm occurs, to better deploy resources and responding guards efficiently. The operator in the security console needs to accomplish the following tasks:
- Confirm that it is not a false alarm: What is the origin of the alarm? Is it an intrusion? Is it a forced door?
- Identify the intruder and confirm his description
- Determine his direction in the premises
To perform those tasks, the operator or the security officer needs to use the following resources:
- Alarm system to sound the alarm and notify the intrusion
- CCTV system to focus on the intrusion zone and to show the origin of the alarm. It help to identify the intruder. Shows if he is armed to use appropriate responding resources
- Access control system, sends the alarm signal and locks doors to isolate the intruder or delay him
- Graphical maps to show location of the alarm and the path of the intruder
Why security systems integration?
Market is asking for security systems integration. More than ever, companies are requiring to integrate their systems. the following are some benefits of integration
- Efficiency
the integrated system is more efficient. In fact, Having a single management platform makes the system easier, the information more accessible. In addition, the emergency is rapidly identified. Consequently, it is easy to identify the nature of an emergency. This facilitates an appropriate response and enhances the safety of the building, its staff and the visitors.
- Better communication
The integrated security systems is a very good information system. It can help the security staff to better communicate. Furthermore, it helps to implement an emergency plan. In addition thanks to it, responding services such police and fire fighters will be well deployed
- Ease of use
Integration security systems refers to manage all aspects of security from one place. Through one programme with the possibility to control remotely. additionally, it refers to the ability to view all operating systems in one dashboard allows security personnel to manage a site from any location
Integrated systems is beneficial also for cost saving. And makes Multi-site management From one location and single platform possible. In addition, Video provides visual verification of alarms and verity of access control events and alarm incidents.
What about a security system installer ?
There must be wire between systems to make them connected. However, the trend is a TCP/IP as a standard for communication between devices and central server applications in the security industry. So every technician now needs to know how to connect IP devices to networks and configure them in the central application.
Integrators and installers need to be proficient in IT. For example, understanding a WAN, LAN and VPN networks to back-up systems, encryption technologies, communication. And they need as well how to integrate applications at server level.
In a word it’s crucial to invest more heavily in IT training and expertise to stay ahead.
Conclusion
Security systems integration provides security professionals simplicity of their everyday tasks. It helps decision making and to respond efficiently to emergencies.
Integrators and installers have to integrate many electronic equipment into the security system. Such as fire systems. Heating and cooling. and also lighting control and elevators. So, security department would be a management center of many facilities. And the main dispatch of the appropriate responding force in a buildings
