Alarm Systems - From Concept to Design (From Physical Security Readings From Security Management Magazine, P 105-116, 1986, Shari Mendelson Gallery, ed. - See NCJ-101017)

• NCJ Number: 101022
• Author(s): J A Barry
• Date Published: 1986
• Length: 12 pages
• Sale Source: Butterworth-Heinemann
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Reprinted from Security Management, September 1983.

Annotation

Alarm system design and equipment decisions pertain to system concept, sensors, alarm assessment systems, alarm reporting systems, and system design.

Abstract

A comprehensive system concept should encompass detection systems, which announce attempts at unauthorized entry or exit; delay systems, which impede unauthorized entry or exit; and response systems, which counteract the threat. Sensors, which are the basic detection elements, should be selected on the basis of their probability of detecting an intruder, their false alarm rate, and their vulnerability to defeat. Accurate and rapid assessment of the cause of an alarm is necessary to prevent full response to a false alarm or intruders' diversionary action. Among the assessment modes is visual assessment through closed circuit television or direct observation by security personnel. A variety of equipment can be used to communicate alarm information from intrusion detection sensors to security personnel. Alarm reporting systems should be considered from an engineering perspective (alarm transmission techniques and line security considerations) and from a procedural perspective (display and console equipment capabilities, features, and layouts). System design selection must consider requirements pertaining to site characteristics, backup systems, tamper protection, electrical interference, and connecting points.