More on Voice Over IP

A letter of mine to The CBC regarding a recent
article of theirs on a home owner who came home to an empty house and a
security system unable to communicate to the security alarm monitoring
station due to him have Voice over IP.

Being in the security alarm industry for almost 20 years and owning KeepSafe Systems for 11 of those, I have realized most
consumers do not know the effect their phone line has on the ability of
their security system to communicate with the central monitoring station.
With the technology overload going on nowadays, one cannot blame the
consumer for not thinking about such things. With all the technical
manuals and the growing complexity of the simplest of technologies the
modern consumer is being bombarded with new technical terms and concepts
on an almost daily basis. 

Fact of the matter is the responsibility lies on the
security alarm company to educate their clients and provide measures to
test the security systems communication. For that reason, I have always
believed in programming daily signal tests into all of my accounts.
Although this does not replace proper education and regular testing on the
behalf of the client, this is a standard feature all alarm companies
should use. Unfortunately, larger companies must deal with line overload
issues, therefore the daily test turns into a weekly or sometimes monthly
test signal. In fact, many companies continue to collect monitoring fees
without knowing whether the system is sending signals or not. 

In addition to line quality issues, consumers also
need to know the effect the house power has on the ability for VOIP & IP
based transmission methods to effective communicate data. Since the
internet connection is reliant on a modem plugged into the house power
many IP based (VOIP & TCP/IP) are useless in the case of a power failure.
Although most security alarm panels are equipped with a battery back-up,
Internet modems and routers are not. The simple fix is to purchase a UPS
back-up or connect the modem to another source of power with a battery
back-up. 

All that aside, non-managed VOIP networks are
problematic for many reasons. With the increased competition both ISP’s
and VOIP providers are looking at cutting costs. These cost cutting
measures result in signal degradation which is not necessarily apparent to
the human ear, but definitely detrimental to data communication. In fact,
the telephone industry as a whole is guilty of this. With the North
American implementation of the “sunset clause” and new digital
legislations, alarm companies are continually up against Least cost
Routing. This is where long distance calls are routed through the most
cost effective digital method which is often IP based and subject to the
same bandwidth issues as VOIP. For that reason, it is also important for
consumers to understand the negative effect dealing with monitoring
stations outside of their local calling area has on their security
systems’ ability to communicate. 

This is a long and complicated issue which requires
both sides of the table to meet. Unfortunately, for this to happen we must
go through many more situations similar to that of Mr.
Terrick.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION - Voice mail and your security alarm system

Most modern security alarm systems have the ability to detect a dial tone when sending a signal to the monitoring station. If a dial tone is not detected, the panel assumes there is a call on the line so it hangs up and tries again.

This feature, although very handy when it comes to preventing transmissions from being jammed, has a draw-back. Some Panels see the intermittant Voice mail indication dial tone as no dial tone. If this is the case, your security alarm system will NOT be able to send a signal to the monitoring station.

If left untreated, this problem could result in a very dangerous situation. Fortunately, most alarm manufacturers have a programming fix. The programming feature is called Dial tone detect disable or Force dial of no dial tone. Proper programming of this feature will repair the problem. Depending on your phone company and your voice mail settings, you may also be able to change this indication. Some phone companies will give an intermittant tone for about 3 seconds then switch to a steady tone. This should not cause a problem with your security alarm system.

To determine if your security system needs re-programming, A simple test is to leave yourself a voice mail message then trip your alarm (Ensure the monitoring station knows you will be testing your security alarm system.) Keep in mind, some companies, like ADT have standard abort delays, which will not send a signal to the monitoring station if the siren only rings for a few seconds. This is great for eliminating false alarms, unfortunately it also leaves time for the criminal to disable the system. For the safety of our clients, KeepSafe Systems does not use dial delay on any security alarm systems we install, unless specifically requested.

What makes a security system

The good the bad and the Ugly

The starting point of any security system good or bad is the main control panel, sometimes referred to as “the brains”. When it comes down to it, the majority of security systems on the market today are similar. Differences lie in whether the system is hardwired, wireless or hybrid (wireless / hardwire combo) as well as the various advanced features.

Without getting into too much detail, having worked with both wireless and hardwire systems, I will always choose hardwired over wireless hands-down. For more information on the differences between hardwire and wireless security alarm systems, see the truth about wireless security systems.

While many people will decide on a security system based on advanced features, it is important to consider all those using the system both now and in the future. In saying that, I am by no means suggesting you stay away from the advanced features. In fact I believe in choosing a system which will cover all possible preferences and requirements. Typically I recommend systems which are modular in design with room for future expansion.

Systems designed around a communication bus with a large selection of modules are the best way to go. If the manufacturer is up on the latest features within the security alarm industry you will be sure to have a system which will outlast the typical toilet alarm by decades. For my installations, I prefer a Canadian manufacturer by the name of Paradox. They have a large selection of modules ranging from zone expanders, relay modules, wireless arm/disarm, Remote telephone access, TCIP & direct connect PC modules. With a highly competitive price point, Paradox systems are suitable for all sizes of installations from small one bedroom condo’s and retail outlets to large mansions and industrial complexes.

Having covered the control panel, the effectiveness of any security system, regardless of complexity is largely controlled by the quality of the installation. In fact, choosing the right installation company is often more important than the choice of a control panel. Many factors go into the proper installation of a security system; these can range from the ability to conceal wires, choice of detectors, installation standards as well as quality of after installation service.

It has become increasingly difficult to find quality installers who take pride in the quality of their installations. For that reason, many alarm companies are opting for the easier to install wireless security systems. Unfortunately this leaves the customer with a security system which could result in a lifetime of problems. Whereas a properly installed hardwired security system will out last and outperform pretty much any wireless security system on the market.


When looking at installation standards, it is often difficult to tell whether a company is really as good as they say they are. Of course no company will tell you their installers are lazy and have sub-standard installation practices. One way to determine the accuracy of their sales pitch is to ask to see samples of their work. Although not much can be seen from a picture of the wiring in a control panel, a general idea of pride can be determined. A messy wiring job in the control panel is often the sign of poor standards in the field. Important factors in the proper installation of a security alarm system are the splices at the contacts, proximity of electric interference to alarm wires, and quality of detectors used.

The most common issue when it comes to poorly installed hardwire security systems is the splice. If done properly, there should be no issue for as long as the system lasts. If your security system door contact is false alarming, typically this would be as a result of a bad splice. Other causes of door false alarms include mis-aligned magnets (Also a result of poor installation standards) as well as contact failure. Contacts also tend to fail if the wood frame around them expands and crushes the glass tube containing the magnetic switch.

With alarm panels becoming more and more sophisticated, electrical interference can be a source of headaches for both hardwire and wireless security systems. More prevalent in wireless security systems, Electrical interference can happen in hardwire security systems as a result or improperly run wiring. For example, a keypad wire run along a large length of high voltage wire can result in false signals being generated or the keypad not functioning properly. Although many modern control panels allow for electrical filtering, it is always a good idea to follow the electrical code when in comes to low voltage wiring and their proximity to AC lines.

Although more on a managerial level, the choice or detectors is a very important aspect of the reliability of a security system. After all, the ability of a security system to properly detect an intruder is largely controlled by the detector itself. For more information on the types of detectors, see False Alarm info.

As you can see, the choice in the alarm company you decide to trust with your security should be based on more than just who has the best ad campaign. Although determining the installation standards of a company can often be difficult, it does help to talk to friends and neighbours. Also, ask to see photographs of their work, most companies who do not take pride in their work will not keep photographs. Look for proof behind the marketing words.

Keepsafe systems installs services and provides alarm monitoring services for security alarm systems in the Vancouver area of the Lower Mainland Fraser Valley British Columbia

Batteries and your Security alarm system - www.keepsafesystems.ca

In the spirit of someone was searching for it so I will write about it, here I am again. The question was “will a low battery in my security alarm system cause a false alarm”. The answer, well that would depend on which battery is low.

Pretty much all security all security alarm systems, whether hardwired or wireless have back-up panel batteries. These batteries are located in the main control panel and are there simply in case the power to the security alarm system goes out. Once the power is restored the batteries are re-charged by the security alarm systems’ internal power supply. Normally speaking, these batteries will last from 4 to 5 years under normal usage. If you have a lot of power failures battery life may be reduced substantially.

Since these batteries are intended for back-up purposed only, they would normally not cause a false alarm. The only time a bad battery may cause a problem with your security alarm system is if the power goes out for a long period of time and the battery goes into deep discharge. This simply means the battery is not supplying enough voltage for the security alarm system to operate properly. The same holds true if the back-up battery is on its’ last legs when the power fails.

Although I really do not consider wireless security alarm systems real security alarm systems, I will bring them up for the purpose of the battery discussion. Wireless detectors, by definition run purely on batteries. Although most modern wireless “security alarm systems” do have battery saver features on their wireless detectors, batteries do run low and as with anything electronic will start to act erratically once sufficient operational voltage is not supplied to the detector. For that reason, if you are unfortunate enough to have a wireless “security alarm system” it is important to keep a fresh stockpile of batteries for when they start to die. Keep in mind; batteries do have a shelf life, so you may have to refresh old batteries from your stockpile.

So now back to the question, in a hardwire security alarm system, under normal operation, a bad back-up battery will not cause a false alarm. It will however cause problems as well as potential false alarms if the power fails for even one moment. Bad batteries in wireless sensors will almost always cause problems whether there is a stable power source in the house or not.

Keepsafe systems installs services and provides alarm monitoring services for security alarm systems in the Vancouver area of the Lower Mainland Fraser Valley British Columbia

Alarm systems and out buildings

In looking through my webpage stats, it appears there is quite a-bit of interest in monitoring workshops with existing home security alarm systems.

Is this possible? The answer is yes and it is quite common.

The term we use in the industry is partitions. Simply put, a partition is a separate are within a security alarm system which acts as if it were a separate security alarm system. Common uses include secondary suites; controlling access to different parts of an office; home vaults; gun closets; liquor cabinets; and of course workshops.

A partition is not to be confused with a zone, a zone is the smaller segment of a partition (door, window, motion detector etc) A zone on a security alarm system may contain more than one device, however this is not recommended. A partition consists of one or more zones on a larger security alarm system.

Now for the workshop scenario. If the workshop is connected to the home, it is simply a matter of running wires from the workshop to the security alarm system. If, on the other hand, the workshop is a separate building, I have an underground conduit run from the house to the workshop and then I install a sub-panel in the workshop.

At this point, it is a matter of how the customer would like to control the workshop. Some choose to have a secondary keypad installed in the workshop, while others prefer to control the entire security alarm system from inside the home. On the topic of controlling your security alarm system, if the workshop also doubles as a garage with an overhead door, another option could be wireless arm/disarm. This is simply an extension of the car alarm remote in which the homeowner carries a key fob remote which is designed to control the security alarm system. In some cases, the security alarm system can also be set up to open the garage overhead door, thus eliminating the need to carry an extra remote. If you really want to have some fun, you can even have one of the buttons activate a porch light, ensuring you have a safe pathway to the door.

Modern security alarm systems are all about designing the system around your needs. KeepSafe Systems is dedicated to providing customized security alarm solutions for the modern world. If you would like to talk about your security alarm system needs, please feel free to contact us at 604-874-8772.

So what exactly is a "prewired home security alarm system"

Many people are purchasing new homes in this vibrant interest driven marketplace. Most new homes today come with a pre-wired security alarm system. So what is this?
Many new home owners end up being shocked to find out how little this can actually mean. Pre-wired alarm does not necessarily mean the house is wired for what you would like in a security alarm system, in fact many are even wired below industry standards. For some basic information on security alarm systems and what is available, please feel free to check out our website at www.keepsafesystems.ca.

So what is a new homeowner to do to ensure the pre-wire they are paying for is up to standard? Well first of all, the industry has a term referred to as “Home run”. Basically this means all windows, doors; motion detectors, glassbreak detectors, water sensors, smoke detectors, keypads etc… have individual dedicated wires running back to one panel location. With the price of copper, many “security alarm installers” are saving money by looping devices in the field. What this means, is one wire will leave the panel location go to the first window, and then another wire will continue to the next and so on. The problem with this is if one segment of that run goes faulty, the entire set of protection devices on that run could be compromised. Furthermore, is the issue of control, once again, please refer to www.keepsafesystems.ca under the false alarm tab to find out more information about individual zoning.

So how does one determine if the security alarm system is installed properly? Well for one, you could contact a home inspector. Unfortunately not all home inspectors actually address the issue of security alarm systems and cabling. They are more concerned with the larger picture of “will this house fall down”. So what is one to do? Well first of all, count all the detection devices, keypads etc in the field. This means every window that has a contact, every motion, every smoke detector that is wired for connection to the security system. Once you have come up with a number, go to the main panel location and count the number of wires. There should be at least the number you counted as well as additional wires for telephone connection and a siren. Some security alarm companies will even run spares, just in case they are needed later.

If you are one of the unfortunate souls to have purchased a home not wired to standard. There is no need to worry too much, as a qualified security alarm installer should be able to hardwire most locations. Do not let this downfall push you into getting a wireless security alarm system, as you may run into more problems than it is worth. See the archive at www.keepsafesystems.ca to read more about wireless security alarm systems and their downfalls.

Keepsafe systems installs services and provides alarm monitoring services for security alarm systems in the Vancouver area of the Lower Mainland Fraser Valley British Columbia

Questions and Answers section - www.KeepSafeSystems.ca

If you are looking at purchasing a security system and have some questions about the equipment out there, or if you already have a security system and you need help resolving a technical issue, this is the place for you. Simply submit your question along with your Email address and I will get back to you with an answer. Email addresses will only be used to send a response back to you. Your question along with the answer may also be posted in this blog to hlp others. Just to re-itterate, I am not in the business of spamming, your Email address will not be posted on here nor will you receive any other mail from me other than the answer to your question.
All postings are moderated and will not appear until cleared by myself. The purpose of this is to filter out junk posts.

www.KeepSafeSystems.ca - Security Systems - Fa la la false alarms

With Christmas just around the corner there are more than just visions of sugarplums dancing in my head. Although a very celebratory time of year, Christmas is known in the security alarm industry as a time of high False Alarm rates. I know it sounds odd to be thinking about work during the festive season but I am the type of person that cannot walk into a restaurant without analyzing the strengths and weaknesses inherent in their particular security system... Yes, I admit it I'm an Alarm Geek.

When you start hanging your decorations consider how your security system is set-up and any motion detectors installed in the vicinity. Surpassed only by balloons and pets, Garland and any other hanging type decorations are notorious for causing false alarms in security systems. Remember, the effectiveness of your entire security system is only as good as the authority’s willingness to respond to alarms from your home or business. Just think about the crying wolf syndrome, the same applies to false alarming security systems.

There are other false alarm causing factors inherent in many security systems this time of year. With the onslaught of colder weather, blowing furnaces and fireplaces often cause motion detectors to falsely activate Security Systems. Although this is more of an installation issue that should be addressed prior to installation of your security system, it is something to consider once the weather changes.

If you have any questions about potential false alarm risks or would like to have KeepSafe Systems install, monitor or service a security system in your home or business, please feel free to visit us online at http://www.KeepSafeSystems.ca/ or if you prefer real human contact I can always be reached at 604-874-8772 – Yes even during the holidays.

Wireless Security Systems - The true cost - www.KeepSafeSystems.ca

Wireless Vs Hardwire

This is an ever-growing debate within the security alarm industry; both sides have their opinions as I have mine. Since starting KeepSafe Systems, I have never installed a wireless security system. There are several reasons starting from appearance, reliability and sustainability to never having the need to and always finding a way to get a wire where it is needed.

Appearance is a large concern of many homeowners. Although transmitters have gotten smaller over the years, wireless security systems involve the installation of boxy transmitters around your doors and windows. Wireless security system supporters will often tell horror stories of holes drilled throughout your home or wires stapled all over your walls. Yes, I have seen these types of installations, for the most part, they are done by inexperienced or lazy technicians who prefer wireless security systems. Although some wire runs can be difficult and very occasionally require surface runs, there is no excuse for sloppy workmanship. Pick your security alarm installer very carefully; often the small business owner will take more care in ensuring the quality of the installation.

When it comes to the reliability of security systems, hardwire will always be the more reliable of the two. Wireless security alarm supporters of course will say “modern wireless security systems are supervised”, basically this is passing over the pitfalls of the technology and adding a feature to tell you when the technology fails. This inevitably runs into expensive and time wasting service calls, equipment replacement and potential false alarms. One need only look at the cordless phone to see the pitfalls of the wireless technology. Sure they are great when you first purchase them, however, age and interference take their toll and sooner or later you have a paperweight with buttons and an LCD screen.

Sustainability is potentially the most expensive reason for choosing hardwire security systems over wireless. I can’t even begin to count the changes in wireless security technology and frequencies used since getting into the business back in the late 80’s early 90’s. Even the wireless security system supporters will tell you that technology is always changing (Except they use the word “advancing”… it sounds better in advertising). So how do wireless security system “advancements” affect the owner of a wireless security system? Easy, say for example you were the unfortunate victim of a wireless security system sales person in 1995. Chances are if one of your motion detectors fails you will be hard-pressed to find a replacement. Simply put, you will now have to purchase an entirely new security system (Control panel, detectors, keypad etc) which depending on the size of your security alarm system will cost you as much and possibly more than if you would have installed a hardwired system to begin with. So in all fairness, I feel I should tell you what is in store for you if a hardwired detector fails. Simple, you replace the detector. Hardwire detectors are simple switches and most hardwire security system detectors are interchangeable regardless of the manufacturer.

Another factor within the realm of sustainability is the cost of upgrading. Back to the system installed in 1995. Yes there have been significant changes in security alarm technology since then. In the hardwire security system world, these changes are mostly in the area of convenience, esthetics and features. If all your detectors are in working order, upgrading a hardwire security system simply involves changing the control panel and keypad(s). This is generally a fairly easy process and is substantially less expensive than upgrading a complete wireless system.

One last consideration in choosing hardwire security systems over their wireless counterpart is the selection of detectors. Although you can retrofit almost any hardwire detector to a wireless system, there are far more choices of detector types in hardwire. Take for example Carbon monoxide, water, natural gas, propane, vibration… and the list goes on. Wireless security systems are generally designed around the average security need of the consumer. Since detectors are not interchangeable across manufacturer lines, it would be financially unfeasible for a wireless security system manufacturer to create wireless detectors for every conceivable need. Even in the spectrum of standard detectors, there are some manufacturers who have extremely reliable detectors that only work on hardwire systems. Choosing a wireless security system can often result in you having a detector less suited for your particular application. Once again the average security need factor comes into play.

Inevitably, the choice of whether to have a wireless or hardwire security system installed is entirely up to you. In fact, your only choice may be wireless. Hopefully I have given you some information to help you along with your decision. If you have any questions, or would like to have KeepSafe Systems install or monitor a security system in your home or business, please feel free to visit us at http://www.keepsafesystems.ca/ or if you prefer real human contact I can always be reached at 604-874-8772.

More than just security - www.KeepSafeSystems.ca

When you look at most "package security systems" typically you will find a control panel with one keypad one motion detector and two door contacts. Although this far from demonstrates the true ability of modern security systems, it has almost become the norm.

Security systems are all about reducing risk of loss. Yes a motion detector and a couple of door contacts could potentially activate a siren if an intruder enters your premises. What about Pre-entry?
Properly installed glassbreak detectors will detect the sound of breaking glass prior to an actual entry. This can be quite valuable in area's where "smash and grabs" are prevalent.

A few lines back I mentioned reducing the risk of loss. When it comes to insurance companies, they look at several area's of potential loss when it comes to determining your insurance rate. Property theft is definately on aspect, however, there are more potential sources of property damage.
Property damage can occur through vandalism as a result of a break and Enter. Another all to common cause is fire, for which smoke detectors are designed. Yes probably everyone has at least one battery powered smoke detector with the lid popped open and the battery removed. Most new houses now have smoke detectors hardwired into their electrical system. Some of these detectors even have a battery back-up. Yes these detectors are great at saving human lives by alerting the occupants of the home of a potential fire. What about when nobody is home? who will call the fire department and when?
Most modern security alarm systems have the capability of being connected to hardwire smoke detectors. See http://www.theworkshop.net/sponsors/keepsafesystems/alarmtips/smoke.htm for more details.

Another fire related detector is a Carbon Monoxide detector. Most of you have seen or own at least one of the plug in models. What if your power goes out in the middle of the night? The security industry has many models of carbon monoxide detectors available. These detectors can be wired into your security system to not only provide a battery back-up. They can also be remotely monitored to provide you and your family with assistance should the leak be bad enough to render you unable to help yourself.

In addition to, another significant but less deadly is water. What kind of damage will occur if your hotwater tank springs a leak when you are on vacation? What if you accidentally leave a hose on and it leaks into your basement (This actually happened to my parents when I was a child). Even an overflowing toilet can cause anough damage to run into the tens of thousands if left undetected long enough.
A water sensor is a very inexpesive solution to reducing this kind of risk. Depending on your insurance company, having a series of water sensor installed in high risk area's and connected to your security system could reduce your home insurance premiums.

Many more potentially damaging occurances can be monitored. I have customers who monitor ice cream freezers and others who monitor the status of computer systems or highly important electrical circuits. If you have a particular area of concern, talk to your alarm technician there is most likely a detector on the market to put your mind at ease.

For free tips on keeping you and your family secure, please visit us at www.keepsafesystems.ca Or if you wish to discuss your security need, please feel free to phone us directly at
604-874-8772

Customer satisfaction - www.KeepSafeSystems.ca

As a small to medium sized business with growth based almost entirely on word of mouth advertising, KeepSafe Systems obtains alot of business from unhappy customers of other larger companies who shall remain unnamed.
Although this is great for business, I find the level of customer dis-satisfaction among clients of larger security alarm companies apawling. Size is not an excuse for poor customer service, I have dealt with larger companies in many area's and service is not always bad and wait times are not always long.

How long do you wait?

If you just tripped your alarm, how long do you have to wait to get in touch with an operator? Yes small wait times are inevitable, however the 15 minute standard of some companies out there is beyond reproach.

As with any service industry, another important factor in the security alarm business is service response. If your security alarm false activates and it is not simple human error, the system should be looked at. At KeepSafe Systems, we provide free labour on service calls for our monitored clients. If a detector needs to be replaced and it is no longer under Manufacturer warranty, KeepSafe Systems will replace the faulty unit at cost. Just one more way KeepSafe Systems ensures our customers are happy with their security alarm system. After all, a malfunctioning security system is worse than having no security system at all.

If you are unhappy with your current security alarm company, by all means tell them so. Maybe they are just to busy to realise the importance of your satisfaction. Shake a few doors, make sure you are getting the service you deserve. If that doesn't work, they obviously don't deserve your business. There are plenty of security alarm companies out there who will happily provide you with the service you deserve. Typically these companies will not be found in the full page yellow page ads. Ask around.

If you are in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia area, please feel free to give KeepSafe Systems a try. Check us out at www.KeepSafeSystem.ca your neighbours will be happy you did. If you prefer talking to a real person, we can also be reached at 604-874-8772 - 24 hours a day 7 days a week... Seriously.

www.keepsafesystems.ca – Security alarm system installations, service and monitoring. Lower Mainland British Columbia.

At KeepSafe Systems, all the Security Alarm Systems we install are designed with your Security needs and comfort level in mind. As your Security needs may be different from those of your neighbour or a complete stranger on the other side of the country, we do not believe in "Packaged Security Systems". We have also learned, most people would rather control their Security Alarm System than have their Security Alarm System control them. This unique approach to customized user-friendly Security Systems is what sets KeepSafe Systems apart from the "Competition" and provides our many happy clients with Security Alarm Systems designed with Their Freedom in Mind.

For free tips on keeping you and your family secure, please visit us at www.keepsafesystems.ca Or if you wish to discuss your security need, please feel free to phone us directly at
604-874-8772