Test: Technical means of security and fire alarm systems. Types and cost of security and fire alarms Based on intrusion and fire detection technology

This market is expected to see double-digit growth rates, especially in addressable device installations and wireless systems.

The source of renewable income in the security industry, in fact, its “cash cow”, is remote control security, as well as the technical means that are supplied to clients to provide it.

“We just fell in love with subscriber revenue,” says Wayne Beck, CEO of A-Com Protection Services Inc., in Columbus, Ga. “If we're going to stay in this business, we're going to have to face with the fact that renewable revenues can only be counted on if costs are fully controlled. We had to change the paradigm. If this had not happened, we would not have been able to stay in business. Believe it or not, we now make money from protecting the residential sector."

Beck expanded the hardware composition of the security system offered to customers, while simultaneously raising the price of the basic user kit to $400 and reducing the price of a monthly subscription to monitoring services by $10. At the same time, the reduction in the actual price was 2 dollars, and the remaining 8 were freed up due to the abolition of the monthly system maintenance fee. This strategy contributed to 20% growth in his business.

“We felt that it was necessary to demonstrate to the client that if he purchases systems from our competitors, then with lower one-time costs he will pay a higher subscription fee, but with us - on the contrary; over a long period of time, his total monitoring costs will be significantly below -- and we've made that our marketing philosophy," Beck explains.

Ronald Petrarca, Director of Operations, Licensing and Compliance Administrator, Electronix Systems C.S.A. Inc. from Huntington Station, NY New York believes that the remote security industry has “punished” itself with a price crisis. “Competition has had a negative impact on this business, as the rise in the supply of “simplified” and free-to-install systems has led to certain part clients have become quite satisfied with low-budget security systems,” he says.

Thomas Patterson, Chairman and CEO of Kimberlite Corporation of Fresno, NY. California, reported that its sales were successful. “In the last three years, we’ve been going all out, raising sales by a quarter in a year,” he says. “Today, a certain share of this growth comes from video surveillance systems, which are currently at the peak of popularity; however, with sales security systems things are going well."

"If the trend towards a stronger CCTV sector continues, it could have a negative impact on our profits as competition in this market segment is too intense - it's difficult to compete with the Internet," he admits.

Patterson is optimistic about the fire alarm business's prospects. “For companies that have taken the time to assemble a team of professionals, the opportunity for work in the fire alarm field is enormous,” he says. “The commercial market is still a busy construction market, and the old generation players are still in some confusion, and this is beneficial for people like us."

“Over the past few years, we have created a separate division that works in the fire safety profile, and have brought together fire professionals in it - and therefore we have found ourselves in a very convenient position to do business in this area as well,” emphasizes Patterson.

John Doyle Jr., CEO of Doyle Security Systems Inc. from Rochester, NY New York City reports a 15% increase in sales of security alarm systems over the past year. He talks about clients who travel frequently and are therefore away from their place of residence, as well as those who own a second home or apartment that is sometimes empty.

Drew Chernoy, responsible for finance and business development at Scarsdale Security Systems Inc. from Scarsdale, PC. New York, concludes that customers' need to inquire about the condition of their homes while they are away has helped his company's business grow. But he also acknowledges the fact that he doesn’t come across clients looking for the cheapest possible solution very often.

“If a client wants to install a system for free, then he will find those who will be able to do it,” says Cherney. “The main support of our business is local clients to whom we were recommended by similar clients who are satisfied with our work. Similar customers know their money is well spent and appreciate our thoughtful service and support."

The company's efforts to promote its services in the market were also facilitated by the company's participation in the reality show "To Catch a Thief" on the Discovery Channel. “It looks like this little ‘exposure’ has had its results,” says Chernoy.

Wayne Warsager, president of New York Merchants Protective Co. Inc. from Freeport, PC. New York, reports a 30% increase in sales of fire alarm systems for his company. He explains this by the fact that municipalities have become more stringent in monitoring the implementation of norms, which until then remained only written down on paper - and therefore a tangible scope of work has appeared.

“The systems in demand today are somewhat broader in their range of capabilities than in previous years,” explains Warsager. “Municipalities today are delving deeper into what properties new objects should have, and are demanding them to an ever greater extent.”

Manufacturers show optimism

Those involved in the sales and distribution of fire alarm systems and security monitoring are generally optimistic in their forecasts for 2007.

"The commercial and residential fire alarm markets will continue to grow strongly," said Richard Roberts, senior product manager for the company's security division. System Sensor from St. Charles, PC. Illinois. “This is due to legislation - fire safety rules and standards.”

Innovation also contributes to the growth of his company's business, which supplies alarm devices and peripherals worldwide. "We are constantly introducing new products to the market and improving existing models, says Roberts. “This is a real source of strength for our company.”

Roberts predicts a fairly high sales growth rate of close to 10% for the fire alarm products market in 2007. “This trend has been observed over the last two to three years,” he says.

Among those who also have an optimistic forecast for market development in 2007 is Rick Falbo, domestic sales manager at Summit System Technologies Inc. from Toronto. "We still feel, based on our internal forecasts, that 2007 will be a good year," Falbo says. "We believe the construction and remodeling markets are on solid ground in most areas."

“The main reserve of potential in the country is concentrated here,” he emphasizes. “And in other areas, even if they do not shine with super-success, everything seems relatively strong. If we take into account the totality of these forecasts, the year seems to be very successful.”

Bill Jackson, President of Digital Monitoring Products Inc. (DMP) from Springfield, PC. Montana is reporting double-digit growth, particularly in wireless technology and high-quality networked addressable security consoles.

More reserved in his predictions is Jim Paulson, senior product manager for the security alarm group at GE Security in Bradenton, N.C. Florida.

“In general, the market is alive, but there is too much competition in it,” says Paulson. “It requires a lot of effort from each player because they are fighting for the same piece of the pie.”

"Manufacturers have not yet developed products that will expand the market or business propositions that would put us on a path to growth," says Paulson. "The key is to figure out how we will 'break through.'" GE Security is looking for ways to expand the pie for yourself and your clients, and that’s not easy.”

Operators of centralized security control stations report a significant increase in service volumes and expect further growth in 2007.

“We're finding that the best dealers, with more sound business plans and adequate funding, are growing volumes at a much faster rate than they have seen in the previous five years,” said Russell McDonnell, chairman of the board of directors of Syracuse, N.Y.-based Rapid Response. York: “From our point of view, this year is one of the best in these five years.”

Scott Sturges, director of product marketing for fire alarm systems at ADI, a distributor based in Melville, N.C. New York, speaks of record growth. “In 2006, ADI set a record for sales of security and fire protection products,” he says. “Our sales numbers have been growing very well over the last 24 months.”

However, as Sturges warns, the strong start seen in January this year is not necessarily an indicator of future success. “It’s difficult to predict what will happen next,” he admits. “The security and fire alarm market is seasonal. We usually see a strong jump in activity from April to September-October, and therefore we are looking forward to seeing if this will happen at all in this year."

He is equally cautious about the prospects for the security alarm market, although he is confident that fire alarm distribution will do well because commercial construction has maintained its position and budget spending in this category remains high.

"On the burglar alarm side, I'm a little less optimistic because the strength of the residential market has waned," he warns. "There are a number of signs in the market that could negatively impact the burglar alarm business in the US."

Competition

Beck believes that competition among security alarm companies has remained at the same level as in previous years. “We're seeing more and more companies wanting to get into this business,” he says. “I also own a telephone company, and we're sort of an integrator in that area. And if I have competition from resellers here, This is almost never seen in the security alarm industry.”

Petrarca agrees that there is often competition from companies outside the security industry. " Alarm Not only manufacturers of network and telephone equipment have begun to do this, but it has also reached audio equipment manufacturers,” he complains. “Oil workers have been doing this for a number of years.”

Doyle faces the challenge of finding qualified contractors for his contracts. “In many cases, their shortage increases either the costs or the completion time,” he notes.

Beck is also trying to improve his customer service. “We strive to provide the customer with the services that he wants, and not those that we assume he wants,” says Beck. “Many people think that they provide good service, but in fact they have such problems with it.” Problems..."

“I’ve been in this business for 34 years, and I still sometimes get calls from clients with complaints,” he admits. “That’s why I give my contact details in directories. If the client is not satisfied with our services and is irritated by this, then it’s better "Let me know. If you talk to him about it first, you will be responsible for making sure the client is taken care of properly."

One of Patterson's concerns is staffing his company's central control room. “Our central security station in Fresno, California, helped local police catch 552 burglars red-handed during 2006 while attempting to burglarize or damage our clients' protected property,” he states. “In 2005, 576 people were caught.” After all, we only have 6,900 security systems in service.”

"We can't be happier with our central station, seeing it as the main guarantee of his success,” Patterson proclaims. - Because, you understand, we have to constantly hire employees, train them and improve the qualifications of station personnel - in order to bring communication with customers to new level quality. It's never easy, and we're just blessed to have a top-notch team and brilliant management at our station."

Which products are profitable?

Roberts cites stringent legal requirements for installations in residential and industrial facilities fire alarm systems, as well as systems for determining the concentration of carbon monoxide in the air.

"We're all seeing this market grow," he says of carbon monoxide detectors. In recent years, legislation obliging their use has been constantly tightened. He also notes addressable and wireless smoke detectors are among the products seeing increased sales.

“It is expected that their sales growth rate could approach 20%, while sales of conventional wired smoke detectors will remain approximately the same,” he says. “This is primarily due to the fact that addressable and wireless smoke detectors provide a broader range of capabilities than wired detector systems."

The company Falbo works for, Summit System Technologies, was formed in January 2006 by its parent company, Mircom Technologies Ltd. from Vaughan (Ontario, Canada). This was a reaction to the growth in sales of addressable fire alarm panels it noted.

“We are observing the following trend: installers prefer to lay new lines for addressable alarm devices instead of existing wiring. And addressable systems are installed not only at large, but also at small objects, as well as in reconstructed buildings,” Falbo emphasizes. Legislative requirements are becoming more and more stringent, which in practice gives the green light to the introduction of addressable systems, since they are more user-friendly, especially in emergency situations.”

Paulson is also enthusiastic. “Our fire systems business is growing at double-digit percentages, triple the overall market, thanks to our channel partners and product platform capabilities,” he says. “In addition, our sales growth rate Our security systems are approaching the 10% mark."

“Our fire alarm channel has been growing a little faster than our security dealer channel, so I would say the systems integration channel is a little over 10% in terms of growth, while our security dealer channel is under that threshold. "Paulson continues.

Profitability indicators for Paulson's company are also not bad, but he himself continues to consider this a problem area. "We must continue to invest in new product development and look for opportunities to formulate unique service offerings that have no precedent in today's market - and we are already working on some of this," he says.

He is also concerned about the problems that some dealers and integrators are facing. “Some can't grow because they can't find enough installers,” says Paulson. “We need to find new ways to save labor so our dealers can use the same talent pool to install more equipment—for example, more actively implement wireless systems."

New products from Amityville, Napco Security Group. New York, are designed to simplify the installation process. “Sales of older corded systems appear to be in decline and are being replaced by newer, easier-to-install hybrid systems that require less skilled labor to install,” said Judy Jones, group vice president of marketing. Our dealers' needs to limit labor costs led us to make this change, and we responded by adapting to their changing labor patterns."

Industry problems

Jackson pinpoints growth opportunities to several vertical markets. “Our product continues to be attractive to financial institutions because it gives them the ability to work in the network environment they are familiar with,” he notes. – Segment retail also remains very promising and our sales figures there are increasing year on year. The federal government provides a lot of options, and we have remotes specifically designed to meet government requirements."

Among the trends noted by Rod Garner, president of Ogden, N.C.-based Mountain Alarm. Utah also includes the development of wireless communication technologies.

“The success of summer marketing programs has changed the way investment capital views the industry,” he says. “The whole story of this relationship model can be told by asset depreciation numbers and sustained positive results. As a representative of the old school, I believe that the new model will "will be seriously bitten by wear and tear, but the smart money will find quality operators to ensure a good balance between growth rates and things like asset wear and tear."

Sales of new equipment by Electronix Systems continue, as Petrarca says, to compete with obsolete but surviving systems. He sees the problem as Internet telephony continues to evolve.

"Fewer and fewer clients are installing wire lines telephone communications," he points out, adding that as monitoring services using analogue channels leave the market cellular communications, “systems using radio communications and the Internet have begun to sell well.”

Warsager is already preparing to deal with the problems caused by the decommissioning of analog AMPS cellular networks, as well as the spread of Internet telephony.

“It basically interferes with the signal transmission process,” says Warsager about Internet telephony. “No matter what we do to inform users, things don’t always happen as we plan. They start using Internet channels -telephony without us being aware of it. The fact is that reconfiguring the system to take into account the use of VoIP services takes a little more time than a regular call to the help desk - and therefore this has a certain impact on our company."

Melissa Brankman, director of customer service for Custom Alarm in Rochester, N.C. Minnesota is seeing a significant increase in the number of homeowners switching from traditional landlines to using the Internet or cable connections, but it also sees a downside.

“There is a strong desire to fully automate the home environment and implement all-in-one solutions—especially in new homes,” she notes. “But for a security system, this is not always the best option. Often, the homeowner is fascinated by the opportunity to have everything services in one hand, forgets about the saying that does not recommend “putting all your eggs in one basket.”

Future

New products create new markets for Doyle. "Customers are also interested in our ability to keep their homes safe with water leak detectors, carbon monoxide monitors and temperature sensors," he says.

Beck is optimistic about the industry's prospects. “I think that everything is in order with the future,” he says. “We just have to make sure that our professionalism is maintained and even enhanced and that we keep the client’s interests in sight. Otherwise, we often go to great lengths.” our own thoughts about what exactly we should sell, not noticing that customers may want to buy something completely different."

The need for emergency calls is expected to increase

The possibility of increased demand for monitoring services is an optimistic note noted by Scott Sturges, director of product marketing for fire and intrusion alarm products at Melville, N.C.-based ADI. New York, is to develop personal emergency response systems (PERS). “I think one of the technologies that is somewhat ahead of its time that we are trying to bring to market today is personal emergency response systems (PERS), admits Sturges. “We see significant potential for business growth in them.” for the next few years." "Many of our dealers sell PERS systems because the installation itself is fast, the communication in these systems is wireless, and subscription fee they cost more than standard security and anti-burglary systems,” he says. --So even if dealers only serve their existing customer base, they can actually distribute PERS products for use in geriatric care. With America's overall aging population, our dealers have a good opportunity to enter the personal emergency calling systems sector." Wayne Warsager, president of New York Merchants Protective Co. Inc. from Freeport, PC. New York, agrees that PERS systems are important. "Lonely seniors and social service workers will want to be able to stay in their homes, and PERS monitoring will become a very significant business," he says. Sturges also notes a "tremendous increase" in the use of cellular digital GSM radio systems as backup, as analogue systems are due to be phased out in February 2008.

Security fire alarm (FS) is a technical complex for detecting alarm events and generating appropriate alerts. The operation algorithm of the OPS contains several stages:

• detection of a factor accompanying unauthorized entry into an object (security component of the system - OS) or fire - fire - PS;
• transfer of information to the control device;
• turning on light and sound annunciators, transmitting information to the remote control.

Detectors are responsible for detection. The principle of their operation is to transform the impact on their sensors. The nature of the impact can be different: physical (shock, break), acoustic, temperature, etc. Depending on this, the types of fire alarm detectors are distinguished.

As an example, consider the operation of a maximum thermal fire detector (IP). Its two spring-loaded contacts are connected with low-melting solder. When heated to operating temperature the solder melts, the contacts move apart, electrical circuit opens.

It should be noted that the output of the fire alarm detector is always electrical. In the simplest case, this is a threshold signal (there is a contact - there is no contact); more complex alarm systems use information transmission in digital form. Wires (cables) or a radio channel can be used as a communication line - wireless signaling.

The block diagram of the OPS is shown in Fig. 1.

• I – detector (sensor);
• LAN – communication line (wired or radio channel);
• PKP – receiving and control device;
• O – siren;
• BP – power supply;
• M – additional modules.

All this is included in the required equipment of the system.

FIRE ALARM TECHNICAL EQUIPMENT

We have already talked about what detectors are, sometimes they are called sensors. The operating principle of these means is determined by the purpose (type) of the sensor or detection method.

Main types of security alarm sensors:

• magnetic contact;
• acoustic (sound);
• movements;
• vibration.

Fire detectors are:

• smoke;
• thermal;
• flame.

As already mentioned, regardless of what the sensors react to, they generate an electrical signal at the output that characterizes their state. This is analyzed by a monitoring device. Classification of PKP is made according to many parameters, including:

Information capacity - the number of loops (for addressable systems - detectors) that can be connected to the device.

Information content – ​​number and types of alerts generated. There are at least two of them: “norm” (“security”) and “alarm”. Modern equipment more informative, able to determine the malfunction of sensors, their addresses (localization of the response zone), etc.

Sounders include devices that generate sound and light signals depending on the state of the system. As a rule, this is necessary to control OPS with outside object.

The power supply to the fire alarm system must be uninterrupted and ensure operation of the fire alarm system in standby mode for at least 24 hours when the network is disconnected. For this purpose, power supplies are equipped with batteries and have the option of automatically switching to “reserve”. In addition, it is useful to monitor the condition of the battery, its protection from deep discharge, as well as protection from short circuits, overloads.

It should be noted that power supplies are not always a mandatory part of the system. There are reception control devices with built-in secondary voltage sources and batteries. Wireless sensors are powered by individual batteries. Thus, with a certain configuration of the fire and security alarm system, a separate power supply is not required.

OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT

It must be said that the capabilities of the OPS are not limited to the above. This especially applies to fire alarms. When a fire is detected, the ventilation should be turned off, the elevators should be switched on to lower, the warning system should be started, etc. These engineering systems are controlled by special modules and relays.

Remote signal transmission, for example, to a security console, can be carried out:

• By cable lines;
• dedicated radio frequency channel;
• networks of cellular operators.

For each case, appropriate interface and transmission modules are used.

Modern security and fire alarm systems can operate as a network system. Accordingly, interface converters and modules (boards) for coordination with a PC are required.

Finally.

It is not entirely correct to consider the security system as a single system. From a hardware point of view at the detector level, the differences are dramatic. Security guards cannot be used to detect a fire, and firefighters cannot be used as guards.

There are different requirements for design and installation, licensing, normative documents is also specific to each type of alarm. The perception of an alarm system as a universal system is determined by the approach of many years ago, when even security and fire sensors were included in one loop.

Modern control devices (panels) have settings that allow them to be used for both “security” and “fire”, but it will not be possible to apply them to one loop at the same time. This is possible for different sections, so the control panel can act as a common device. The same applies to light and sound alarms and power supplies.

© 2012-2019 All rights reserved.

All materials presented on this site are for informational purposes only and cannot be used as guidelines or regulatory documents.

To create an appropriate level of security at a facility, it is necessary to install security and fire alarms. The fire alarm system is a combination of technical means for detecting a fire and identifying attempts of illegal access to the protected perimeter. The two subsystems have common communication channels, similar algorithms for receiving, processing and transmitting information and alarm signals. In order to save money, it is best to combine them.

OPS systems are the most common today. These protective lines allow you to create an appropriate level of security for the protected object.

Thanks to a combination of technological means, the operation of such subsystems is based on several types of alarm systems: security, fire and emergency. The security alarm detects attempts at illegal entry, the fire alarm detects the presence of a fire, the emergency alarm warns of emergency situations (gas leak, water pipe break, etc.).

What are the main tasks of security and fire systems?

Fire alarm systems are built on a combination that are integrated with each other. However, the goals set are individual for each subsystem. The following fire alarm tasks are distinguished:

• Reception, processing, transmission of information about the occurrence of a fire;
• Determining the location of the fire;
• Transmitting a command to the automatic fire extinguishing mechanism;
• Starting the smoke removal subsystem.

The tasks of the security alarm are:

• Detection of all attempts of illegal access to the protected area;
• Recording the place and time of violation of access rules;
• Transferring information to a computerized control panel.

Despite the fact that individual goals are identified for both subsystems, the installation of alarm systems in an enterprise is intended to fulfill one common task: ensure timely response to the conditioned factor and transmission of relevant information about the ongoing event.

The video shows how the fire and security alarm works:

Comprehensive composition of integrated security and fire systems

OPS systems may differ from each other in their complex composition. First of all, it depends on the tasks that the security and fire alarm system performs. As a rule, this complex includes three main categories of equipment:

• A device for centralized monitoring and control of the operation of alarm systems (a computer equipped with specialized software, a central control panel, a receiving and control mechanism);
• Devices for receiving, collecting and analyzing information coming from fire alarm sensors;
• Signaling and sensor mechanisms (various types of sensors and notification devices).

Management of the operation of the security system and control over its implementation is carried out by a centralized device. Despite this, each alarm can be controlled by separate enterprise security services. When installing such protective circuits, the autonomy of each subsystem as part of the entire complex is maintained.

Fire alarm systems are equipped with sensors that can detect the occurrence of an alarm. Usually, technical specifications The sensor determines the parameters of the entire protection circuit. The mechanisms for receiving, collecting and analyzing information coming from fire alarm sensors are actuators. They allow you to execute a programmed algorithm of actions in response to an received alarm signal.

A special feature of the fire alarm system is that it can be installed in two ways. The first is an alarm system with closed (local) security, i.e., arming is carried out inside the facility with the transfer of relevant information to the security service of the institution. The second is arming in special units (private or non-departmental) and fire service Ministry of Emergency Situations.

Classification of OPS system complexes

Security and fire alarm systems of various types can be installed at a protected facility:

• Non-addressable (analog);
• Targeted (survey and non-survey);
• Combined (addressable-analog).

The non-addressable fire alarm system operates on a simple principle. The perimeter of the protected object is divided into several parts, in each of which a loop is laid. It combines several notification mechanisms. The loop receives information from the detector immediately after it is triggered. The disadvantage of this type of protective circuit is the possibility of false triggering of the device. The functionality of the loop and detectors can only be checked during a technical inspection. The control zone is limited to one loop, and it is impossible to determine the exact location of the emergency situation. Centralized control is performed by security and fire panel mechanisms. At large facilities, when installing such systems, it is necessary to perform a large amount of work on laying connecting wires.

The addressable fire alarm system can be interrogated or non-interrogated. When installing this type of protective line, addressable sensors are installed on the loop. When triggered, the code of a specific sensor is indicated. Non-interrogation lines are threshold lines based on their operating principle. If any notification device fails, there is no connection with the receiving and control mechanism. A feature of polling systems is the periodic submission of a request about the functionality of the notification mechanism. In survey schemes, the false alarm rate is reduced.

Today the most common and effective are combined fire and security complexes. In practice, they are called analog addressable.

It is possible to connect various types of sensors to this system. All information is processed by specialized electronic computing equipment. The system independently determines the type of sensor and sets the algorithm for its operation. The combined line allows you to quickly process information and make appropriate decisions. Expansion of such a subsystem with additional protective lines is possible without special effort and costs.

Types of fire and security notification devices

The fire and security system must be equipped with sensors. Fire sensors are divided into:

• By the method of transmitting the received information (analog and threshold);
• By location on the protected perimeter (external and internal);
• Based on the principle of recording changes in space (volumetric, linear, surface);
• According to the method of monitoring individual items (local or point);
• By signal generation method (active, passive);
• According to the operating factor (thermal, light, smoke, ionization, manual, combined);
• Based on the principle of physical impact (capacitive, seismic, radio beam, closing).

Among security sensors The following subtypes are distinguished (according to the type of notification mechanisms used):

• Contact;
• Magnetic;
• Electric contact;
• Infrared passive;
• Active;
• Volumetric radio waves;
• Volumetric ultrasonic;
• Microwave;
• Acoustic;
• Capacitive;
• Vibrating;
• Barometric.

The video shows more information about fire and security alarms:

Video surveillance and security alarm system – effective integration of devices

Video surveillance systems installed at the facility allow you to monitor the protected area around the clock in real time. Modern solution is a combination of security guard and video monitoring. Installation of such integrated systems will allow faster and better detection of the presence of a flame in a room or an attempt to illegally enter a protected area. Today, there are video cameras that can detect smoke entering the lens, the presence of fire, or other indicators of risk.

Thanks to the integration of a video surveillance device into the security system, the operation of security and fire installations is greatly facilitated. Video cameras allow you to promptly identify the location of smoke or the presence of a flame. This combination also helps to notify people of danger in time and carry out evacuation measures. Video cameras allow you to continuously monitor events taking place both inside the structure and in the surrounding area.

All data in the installed video surveillance subsystem is stored in an archive. Access to the archive is open at any time.

When introducing such a system into the work of an existing security guard, cameras from various leading manufacturers are used. Video surveillance on site has a number of capabilities:

• Lighting control;
• Sending text messages to persons responsible for ensuring safety, including fire safety, about the condition of the facility or the occurrence of an emergency;
• Immediate notification of building security sector employees;
• In the event of an emergency, it is possible to shut down engineering, communication and air conditioning subsystems;
• Recording and playing video files;
• Mode setting;
• Setting the storage time for files in the archive;
• Performing scaling of individual frames;
• Search, view and analyze images according to the necessary parameters (by camera number, date, time, event, room).

To provide high level security at real estate, special electronic systems are used. These include security and fire alarms.

In order not to install two independent alarms, which would require large financial costs, an integrated alarm system was developed; what it is and how it is used will be discussed below.

OPS is a fire and security alarm system, which are combined in one multifunctional system.

The advantage of this kind of complexes is that they have a single hardware and software module that controls the operation of all security and fire sensors, as well as external systems and devices that support security at the facility.

Modern security and fire alarms may include:

1. automatic fire extinguishing systems;
2. smoke protection;
3. integrated security systems;
4. access control systems.

Purpose of OPS

In accordance with the GOST 26342-84 standard, the main task that security and fire alarms must solve is to receive alarm signals from sensors, process them, subsequently transmit an alarm signal to the security and fire service consoles, as well as provide users with information about an attempt to enter the premises or about a fire.

Purpose of fire and security alarm systems:

• support for round-the-clock monitoring of the territory of the protected facility;
• detecting fires at the earliest stages;
• precise determination of the location of entry into the facility or the start of a fire;
• providing security and fire services, as well as property owners with information about a break-in attempt or the start of a fire;
• management of warning systems, autonomous fire extinguishing, smoke removal, personnel evacuation;
• automatic self-diagnosis of security and fire sensors, as well as executive systems;
• Supports full alarm functionality when powered by backup sources nutrition.

OPS classification

Security and fire alarm systems have their own classification, which includes three categories.

Address

This security and fire alarm system is designed to monitor large and medium-sized facilities, protecting them from robbery and fire.

This type of alarm allows you to determine the exact location of the start of a fire or intrusion.

This feature is associated with the ability of the sensors used to transmit to the central console, in addition to the alarm signal, also data about which of the sensors and in which loop was triggered.

Thanks to this, you can accurately determine a dangerous place, which will allow you to put out a fire in a timely manner or neutralize intruders.

Non-addressed

Security and fire alarm systems of this type are designed to protect small-scale objects.

Its difference from the previous system is that it allows you to determine only the number of the loop whose sensor transmitted the alarm signal. This type of system does not allow us to determine the exact location where the danger was detected.

Analog addressable

Security and fire alarms of this class are among the most highly effective and reliable systems that continuously monitor the protected object by analyzing various telemetric information: air temperature, presence of smoke, strong mechanical vibrations, sound waves, etc.

The main difference from all previous OPS is that the decision to notify about danger at the facility is made by the central processor based on the analysis of many indicators obtained from different sensors installed at the facility.

This type of security and fire alarm is a complex electronic complex that is highly accurate in identifying danger locations and has virtually no false alarms.

In addition, this type of alarm provides for the constant receipt of information from sensors about the controlled parameter; therefore, if a sensor breaks down, you can instantly find out about it through a visual notification of the alarm control panel.

Standard equipment of OPS

A security and fire alarm of any of the listed types includes a certain set of devices that ensure its functionality.

The main ones include:

1. detectors (security and fire sensors);
2. reception and control console;
3. hazard warning devices and systems;
4. communication lines between the sensors and the console, as well as between the console and the sirens (can be radio channel, wired loop, GSM or GPRS);
5. backup power system (this can be a battery, a gasoline/diesel generator thanks to which the alarm system operates continuously);
6. peripheral actuators;
7. specialized software to control the operation of the alarm.

The sensors that are equipped with security and fire alarm systems, depending on the technology for detecting intrusion into an object or the presence of a fire, are divided into the following categories:

• ultrasonic;
• infrared (passive or active);
• magnetic contact;
• radio wave;
• vibration;
• acoustic;
• light;
• combined action.

Depending on the specific tasks for which security and fire systems are designed, they may also include other types of sensors that allow monitoring environmental parameters.

These could be sensors that monitor air temperature and humidity, gas and water leaks, etc.

Their use will significantly expand the purpose of automatic fire alarms, providing them with functions that are characteristic of such systems as a “smart home”.

There are many types of sensors that come with security systems.

Among those used by fire alarms, the following should be highlighted:

1. smoke - determine the presence of smoke in the room (depending on the sensor used, they can be photoelectric, ionization, differential, aspiration, optoelectronic, radioisotope);
2. temperature (thermal) – record an increase in temperature above a set threshold (they can be differential, absolute, linear thermal cable, multipoint);
3. flame sensors - detect the presence of open flames (the fire alarm system can have ultraviolet, infrared, optoelectronic and multi-band);
4. gas sensors - detect the presence of a certain gas concentration in the air (can be semiconductor, electrochemical, optoelectronic, thermal wave, thermometric);
5. multi-sensor sensors - this type of device can detect a fire using several parameters, the number of which is determined by the number of sensors in the sensor.

Standard functionality

Regardless of the model and manufacturer, each fire and security alarm must provide a standard set of functions, which includes:

• identifying fire sources in the early stages;
• determining the moment of penetration into an object;
• detection of gas or water leaks in premises;
• determination of temperature increases above normal, as well as the appearance of smoke;
• transmitting an alarm signal to security and fire service consoles;
• activation of warning and alarm systems;
• work management stationary systems smoke removal and fire extinguishing;
• management of the process of evacuation of people from the facility.

From what is presented above, we can conclude that even those basic functions that the alarm system has will effectively protect the facility from fire and robbery.

Features of the design and installation of fire alarm systems

In order for the security and fire alarm systems to function effectively, it is important to correctly draw up its design and subsequently carry out high-quality installation of all functional elements.

The main points to consider when designing an alarm system include:

1. choosing the structure and type of system used;
2. determining the number of security and fire sensors of a certain type;
3. analysis of the need for placement of additional functional sensors at the facility;
4. selection of the type and characteristics of the communication line through which communication will be carried out between the central console, detectors and actuators;
5. selection of a reception and control console, which should control the operation of the alarm system and communicate with fire and security service consoles (the console must be compatible with the consoles);
6. determination of optimal autonomous power sources, thanks to which the security and fire alarm system will function without interruption.

During the design process, it is also important to consider the possibility of expanding the signaling functionality in the future. In this case, the alarm system can easily be improved by adding new sensors or warning devices without the need for significant modification of an already functioning system.

Conclusion

A modern security and fire alarm system is precisely the security tool that will protect a facility from “uninvited guests” and from a possible fire.

Today there are a large number of ready-made kits, so individual devices, with the help of which an optimal security system for a particular object can be built.

So that the system being created fire safety always functioned correctly and could help in case of trouble, you should entrust the installation of such systems to professional companies.

They will competently draw up a project, select the appropriate equipment and carry out its installation and configuration. Subsequently, the client will have a multifunctional and fault-tolerant security and fire alarm system.

Video: Security and fire alarm

The consumer market offers the buyer various alarm systems that can be used to equip a country house, cottage, apartment, or provide protection for a personal property. Equipment for burglar and fire alarms, depending on the type, can be purchased separately, but there are also devices combining two types of systems - security and fire.

Technical means are designed to provide owners with information indicating the condition of controlled objects, save data, and also convert the received alarm message into sound and light signals.

A characteristic feature of security and fire alarm devices is their classification, which provides for the division of detectors according to the following parameters:

• according to their intended purpose (place of application);
• according to the operating principle of the device;
• by the number of detection zones;
• by type of controlled and protected areas;
• by the maximum range of the detection system;
• on structural manufacturing;
• according to the method of electrical power supply to devices.

In addition to classifying detectors by parameters, security and fire alarms are divided into three types, which differ from each other in the location of the sensors.

• One-border. Carries out control along the perimeter of the house or along the perimeter of individual premises. Controls doors, windows, technical entrances.
• Double border. Performs all the functions of the one-line system, and also monitors the approaches to the building and the condition of the territory adjacent to the site.
• Multi-border. Functionally it combines the two previous security systems, but additionally monitors individual valuable items inside the house, garage or workshop.

The operation of a multi-border notification system can be ensured from one or several interconnected or independent autonomous points. The alarm system of various protected objects, objects and territories can be switched on and off independently of each other.

Regarding the place of application

The choice of equipment largely depends on the location of its application. According to their purpose, OPS can be characterized by several types:

• apartment alarm;
• alarm system for the cottage;
• alarm system for a country house;
• alarm for personal plot and areas adjacent to the house.

An owner who wants to install an alarm system for security purposes at home or the surrounding area should be well aware that with complication design developments costs increase for the operation of security systems, and the cost of devices also increases.

For apartment

To protect apartments in multi-storey residential buildings, they are mainly used single border notification systems, which control the premises along the entire perimeter, including the entrance doors and windows of the apartment.

The equipment supplied by the manufacturers includes:

• system unit;
• remote control;
• Motion Sensor;
• bracket for mounting the sensor;
• sensors that respond to the opening of windows and doors;
• sensor batteries;
• power adapter;
• sound detector;
• GSM antenna;
• instructions.

Security alarms for apartments can be additionally equipped with various types of sensors that respond to broken glass, the presence of smoke or gas in the room, as well as sensors that respond to vibration or flooding.

For a cottage

Private cottage security is provided two-border or multi-border systems alerts. For external security of an object, you will need from 6 to 12 sensors and a four-zone monitoring and signal receiving device.

To protect cottages, door magnetic contact sensors, single-frequency and dual-frequency sensors that respond to broken glass, as well as different kinds motion sensors. To create additional lines of protection, internal security alarm sensors are used.
To eliminate the possibility of false alarms and timely detect real danger, when choosing equipment for cottage security Special attention it is necessary to pay attention to external sensors that do not respond to weather conditions.

In cottages protected by devices, IR motion sensors are mainly used, which are equipped with a double PIR element and equipped with a built-in filter. This system eliminates any reaction to the presence of pets in the house.

For a country house

Due to the remoteness of the security facility from the city, difficulties may arise with the maintenance of complex engineering systems. Some owners who want to install an alarm system prefer simpler but reliable protection options, completing them required quantity external motion sensors.

Devices placed on the walls along the perimeter of the building make it possible to create protected area up to 5 meters wide, which provides early detection of an intrusion attempt and helps to take the necessary protective measures.

Equipment with light external alarms, as well as sound external signals, has a deterrent effect on intruders and requires virtually no maintenance. A cable running along the walls of a building is usually hidden from prying eyes by embedding it into the wall using a construction method.

When protecting a country house, the use of internal sensors is possible at the request of the owner, as an additional protective line.

For the site

When choosing technical equipment, which will ensure the protection of the territory, it is necessary to take into account the characteristic features of the area, relief, as well as possible visibility restrictions.

To protect the site it is mainly used:

1. Vibration protection system. Reacts to ground vibration from a person walking on it. This method of protection allows you to control an area up to 200 meters long. Response of devices to the movement of animals, passage of motor vehicles, precipitation and wind gusts of up to 20 m/sec are excluded.
2. Capacitive system. It is used mainly in conditions of complex perimeters or terrain. Reacts to an intruder touching the top edge of the fence.
3. Radio wave system. Reacts and issues an alarm signal when a person crosses the terrain. The system is resistant to atmospheric influences, the creation of electromagnetic interference, and is not distracted by movement Vehicle and animals crossing the site.
4. Radio beam system. There are two types:
   • single-position, emits radio waves into space, feeding alarm signal informs about the appearance of an intruder;
   • two-position, helps create an electromagnetic barrier above the soil surface. It is impossible to cross such a protected area unnoticed.

Almost all security devices are equipped with an automatic alarm mode, which, in a prescribed sequence, informs users by auto-dialing to their phone numbers.

What types of security and fire alarms are there?

Fire alarm system combines two types of systems: security and fire. Automatic fire alarms are divided into three types:

Non-addressable alarm system

Non-addressed OPS. A simple threshold system that uses detectors with two positions - “normal” and “fire”. The system is triggered when exceeding a certain parameter above a given threshold. This could be excess temperature or smoke levels. The monitoring panel records the number of the security detector loop; the address of the room and the number of sensors are not transmitted to the panel. It is used to protect objects and territories with a small area.

Addressable alarm system

. Used to protect objects with medium and large sizes. The system has the ability to determine points of entry into the protected area, as well as fire points, thanks to the address schemes and information exchange protocols built into the detectors. This type of fire alarm is usually installed in schools, kindergartens and other important social institutions.

Addressable analog signaling

Addressable analog OPS. This type of fire alarm system is characterized by high efficiency, quality and reliability. The controller constantly analyzes the information that is continuously supplied from the installed sensors to the main panel. Monitors fires, sudden increases in temperature, the appearance of smoke, intrusion into the territory, etc.

Based on intrusion and fire detection technology

The alarm system is completely dependent on monitoring sensors that promptly respond to the detection of fires and intrusions into the protected area. Sensors are divided into several types, which allows you to use a variety of solutions when installing an alarm system.

Fire and security alarm systems are divided according to the types of sensors:

• ultrasonic;
• acoustic;
• vibration;
• infrared;
• magnetic contact;
• light;
• radio wave;
• combined and other systems.

The alarm system can be equipped with other sensors, the types of which are difficult to list. Among the control devices used in the system there are gas and smoke sensors, water leakage control sensors, multi-sensor devices that analyze a fire based on four signs, etc.

Characteristic features of wired and wireless fire alarm systems

Wired alarm involves installing a cable on the walls of a building and, as a rule, provides in advance, even before finishing begins. This method of security is considered more reliable than its wireless counterpart due to the absence of incoming radio signals that can be interrupted.

In a wired security system, you can achieve the maximum possible range of protected zones, control not only the house and territory, but also the gates, as well as the fencing of the site along the entire perimeter.

The wireless system is easy to install. Structural elements devices communicate using radio waves (signals), which are tuned to the required frequency. The wireless alarm system is mainly equipped autonomous sensors, allowing you to control the windows and doors of the house, approaches to the building on distance not exceeding 100 meters, and fire safety in the territory.

When purchasing security equipment, not only the features of the object are taken into account, intuition and personal experience person. In order to select the equipment correctly, it is necessary to make an accurate calculation of all the characteristics of the purchased devices, and this work can only be done by professionals.