For enhanced security, consider having your intruder alarm system monitored. Unlike a noise-only system, monitored alarms are connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) via a phone link.
An ARC call centre is staffed around the clock by personnel dedicated to monitoring security alarms. They contact the appropriate authority – usually the Police, or the Fire Brigade in case of a fire – when an alarm is triggered. An ARC operates under strict legislation, ensuring the highest level of operational standards.
Passive Monitoring
Passive monitoring is a type of intruder alarm system where your premises are connected to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) through a dedicated phone line using a Digital Communicator. This system is called “passive” as it doesn’t actively check the phone line’s status, and the monitoring centre is only notified when the alarm is triggered.
Once the alarm is activated, the ARC is alerted and contacts the relevant authority, typically the Police. However, this monitoring system is unable to detect line cuts. Therefore, if an intruder cuts or damages the phone line, the alarm won’t reach the monitoring centre, and they won’t be able to notify the authorities.
Active Monitoring
Active Monitoring services such as British Telecom (BT) Redcare connect your burglar alarm system to an Alarm Receiving Centre (ARC) via a phone line. However, Redcare does more than just that. It actively ensures that the phone line is always available, and in the event of an intrusion, it relays a signal to the ARC even if the phone line has been cut.
By using an existing BT phone line, you can save on the cost of installing and renting an additional line. With Redcare, there are no additional call charges, and a small attachment allows it to work on the same line as other digital equipment like a fax machine or PC. While a dedicated line is recommended for servicing and maintenance, Redcare’s method of operation does not require one.
Dual Signal Active Monitoring
For a more robust active monitoring service, you can choose a two-signal path for ultimate coverage. This uses a telephone line, as well as a mobile phone network path, in order to continuously monitor an alarm system. If one of the paths is attacked or damaged, the other continues to monitor and transmit information to the Alarm Receiving Centre.
ICU2 Security recommends BT Redcare GSM, as it is the only monitored system that completely conforms to the new Police Policy (ACPO Policy A.C.P.O. 2006/PD 6662). The policy states that all new security systems must now be capable of generating an initial alarm activation followed by a second one confirming the first to qualify for Police response.
BT Redcare
ICU2 Security specialise in BT Redcare GSM. This is because it is the only monitored system that completely conforms to the new Police Policy (ACPO Policy A.C.P.O. 2006/PD 6662). The policy states that all new security systems must now be capable of generating an initial alarm activation followed by a second one confirming the first to qualify for Police response.
Redcare GSM, Redcare Secure, Redcare Classic, DualCom GPRS, and DualCom Plus use active monitoring with two signal paths: a mobile phone network path (referred to as the radio path) and the telephone line. If one of the paths is attacked or damaged the other continues to monitor for any further alarms and transmits them as a ‘confirmed activation’.
Because these are capable of sending a confirmed activation if the radio path or telephone line fails, they are some of the most secure methods of monitoring an intruder alarm, regardless of which line fails first. This dual-signal function is an advanced security function for added safety.
