Happy 2012!!!

The last 2 days of 2011 folks...as you reflect on the year we hope you conclude it an awesome year...and as you look towards 2012 we hope you see endless opportunities, worthwhile experiences, beautiful moments and capture all of your heart's desires. It has been a pleasure serving you throughout this year and we are even more eager to serve you in 2012... Happy New Year from all of us at IDsEtcetera.

Strobe Light for a Home Security System

If an intruder tries to enter your residence and you are not home, a strobe light mounted outside your home will help police locate your property and let neighbors know something is wrong. Positioned inside, a strobe light can warn you of impending danger. To buy a strobe light for a home security system check us out on http://www.idsetcetera.com/products/2%252dway-Wireless-Outdoor-Siren-%26-Strobe.html

Make Safety & Security a New Year's Resolution

2012 is knocking on your heels. You are already making your list of New Year's resolution.      1. Exercise more 2. Spend more time with family 3. Increase family's and property's security. 


Your family and property is of utmost importance, so ensure they are safe and secure with a wide range of security products offered by IDs Etcetera. Check us out today and make that resolution a reality.
http://www.idsetcetera.com/

All in one Doorbell, Camera and Monitor

The ECL-V702 is a color doorbell camera monitor that can connect up to two doorbell cameras (black-&-white or color) and up to two security cameras (traditional style analog CCTV cameras). The person ringing the doorbell can be seen easily on its bright, 10-inch (diagonal) color screen. If you purchase a second ECL-V702 the two monitors can be linked and used as an intercom.The ECL-V702 has a large color TFT LCD screen that provides users with a VGA quality display. It has a built-in speaker and microphone for two-way communication. Easy to reach touch-panel style controls on the front of the unit make it easy to use and easy to clean.


Features

• 10" color LCD screen
• Display resolution: 800x600 VGA quality
• Built-in microphone & speaker for 2-way communication
• Monitor caller/mute caller
• Unlock button
• Do Not Disturb function
• Selection of doorbell chimes
• Slim design, easy to hang and install - only 4 wires to connect
• Auxiliary inputs for connection to radio or television
• Supports call transfer to 2nd ECL-V702 station (if present)
• Image capture mode
• Inter talk with other monitor locations
• 2 auxiliary security camera inputs
• Power: 13.8VDC (power adapter  included)

Check out: http://www.idsetcetera.com/products/Eclipse-10%22-Screen-Video-Intercom.html

Door knobs=Bacteria, Keys=Lost/Stolen

Door knobs breathe bacteria and keys can get lost or stolen. This problem can  be easily eradicated by installing the ENFORCER “No Touch” Request-To-Exit Sensor. It uses IR technology to request egress from a protected area or activate a device with the simple wave of a hand. Since it requires no touch, this sensor is ideal for use in hospitals, clinics, labs, clean rooms (to reduce the risk of contamination), schools, factories, or offices.

Features

• No Touch - just wave a hand in front of sensor.
• Sensing range up to 4" (10cm). (Range for SD-927PWCQ is up to 2” (5 cm))
• Reliable IR technology senses motion.
• No touch reduces the risk of cross-contamination.
• Stainless steel or white plastic single gang plate.
• 3A relay, triggers min. 0.5 sec. or as long as hand is near the sensor
• LED illuminated sensor area for easy identification.
• LED changes color to show the relay is triggered.
• Quick-connect screwless terminal block.

Check out: http://www.idsetcetera.com/products/Seco%252dLarm-No-Touch-Request%252dto%252dExit-Sensor.html

The Fargo DTC 400 Card Printer/Encoder

The Fargo DTC400 Card Printer/Encoder equips those persons and companies who prefer the do-it yourself method of printing their ID cards. This professional, modular card printing system is versatile and easy to use. It offfers:

• Dual- or single-sided Direct-to-Card printing of photos, bar codes and digital signatures.
• An all-in-one ribbon cartridge combines the printer ribbon and card cleaning roller into one cartridge, eliminating the hassle of hard-to-load ribbons, separate card cleaning mechanisms and confusing indicator lights.
• Optional DTC400e modules encode data onto contact and contactless smart cards, proximity access control cards and magnetic stripe cards.
• Share your DTC400e in a network setting using the optional Ethernet or internal print server.
• Ideal for small- to mid-sized businesses, K-12 schools, regional and local government agencies, membership and loyalty clubs, events and more.

Everything about the DTC400e printer/encoder is designed to make ID card issuance simple, secure and virtually maintenance free. The printer ribbon and card cleaning roller load in one easy step. The LCD control panel tells you what's going on, and what you need to do about it. And a wide range of options let you adapt the DTC400e to your changing security needs.

Printable plastic cards

If you are looking for printable plastic cards, IDs Etcetera would most likely have what you need. We have quality plastic cards from leading manufacturers. Browse our selection of blank pvc cards by size, color, style or brand.

Remember IDs Etcetera is the #1 source for security and convenience products!

http://www.idsetcetera.com/products/Standard-Blank-PVC-Cards.html

Give the gift of an ITunes Gift Card

Wondering what to give that special someone for the holidays, make it simple, give a give of an Tunes Gift card. They are an ideal way of conveying how much you care on that special day.

ITunes gift cards affords the person the opportunity to purchase their favourite Christmas carols, pictures, apps and so much more. They are available immediately on-line at www.idsetc.com

. You don't have to wait another minute, order them now!

There’s an app for that...

By: Curt Harler

From: http://www.securityinfowatch.com/Features/theres-an-app-that

Staying connected is easier than ever 

Word on the street is that everyone is getting fired up about apps. But it's not just those tech-savvy folks who see the benefits of these software tools.

Now, communities, fitness centers, restaurants, retailers and even your local coffee or grocers are staying connected through software-driven applications to access instant information from their mobile device. There are Apple apps, Google apps, Android apps, cross-platform fun and games apps (Angry Birds, anyone?)-and there's no sign of the app craze slowing down as it hits the security industry full speed. Whether it involves installing cable, checking remote cameras or taking care of trouble tickets-there's a security app for that.

"Having apps on your smartphone is the ultimate in connectivity, making the smartphone an all-inclusive type of remote control, or ultimate communication device across a plethora of platforms," said Art Morrison, operations manager, ProTech Security Inc., North Canton, Ohio.

The full-service security solutions integrator prides itself on its IP-based solutions and working "as a team in sharing similar core values of honesty, integrity and commitment to providing 'best of breed' products and services to our clients," continued Morrison.

"You need to put the app into the customer's hand," he added, citing that with the proliferation of IP and networks we expect connectivity in all aspects of our lives.

"The traditional 'hands on' theory of sales is custom-made for this type of app," said Morrison. "You can demo specific cameras from your office environment to give a more diverse presentation of the features and benefits of the app."

Gary Franklyn, vice president of Business Development, Security Networks, West Palm Beach, Fla., noted that added services like apps make for a stickier customer.

Their iNet package includes energy management, home automation and two co-branded offerings called iNet Interactive Solutions and iNet Video Monitoring. The iNet Interactive Solutions lets customers control and monitor their security system anywhere, anytime. The service offered by their 150,000 affiliates is based on apps from Alarm.com and Honeywell but is branded by Security Networks.

"Our affiliates can start with a basic service and upgrade customers to these," said Franklyn.

Morrison noted the app trend has users abandoning their laptops for tablets and people synchronizing their smartphones to their laptops.

"Smartphone growth has been critical to the growth of apps as well," he said, as it is quite effective for a business, its customers and workers.

What's more, apps are driving the business especially as more people have smartphones, agreed James Ward, president of C.O.P. Security Systems, Alexander, Ark. "People are into technology. They like to have control of things on the go. And apps breathe a whole new life into security," said Ward. "The technology makes security work for them."


C.O.P. Security Systems uses the Telguard interactive app, which allows customers to arm or disarm their system, view the history of the system and receive text message event notifications. Their customers have a choice of three platforms-Android, iPhone and BlackBerry. "I've seen them all in action and they each work great," Ward added.


Get the app that fits your needs



But like most things in life, there is a time and place for apps and Richard Jimenez, general manager of IE Alarm Systems, Riverside, Calif., agreed that each app has its specific purpose. "If used correctly, and as a quick reference or management tool, an app definitely has value," he said, though he noted that an app "should not be relied upon as the primary medium for remote viewing or management."

IE Alarm Systems (formerly D.C. Electronics Two Inc.), founded by Utana and George Del Valle in 1985, provides a range of services including fire alarm, camera and access control systems.

And while Jimenez saw apps firsthand from other industry manufacturers, he uses Samsung Techwin America's iPolis app as his primary solution.

"I really like the ease of use of the GUI [graphical user interface] with Samsung's iPolis and the flexibility to use it with their analog and IP products and platforms," he said. "The multi-screen functionality and PTZ control are nice features. The app also streams fluidly with a standard 3G connection and even better on Wi-Fi."

ProTech Security has sold apps from both MobiDEOS and Lextech Labs and ensures the client is involved and the app fits their needs. "We prefer to present the highlights of each system, allowing the client to participate in the selection process, unless one app will clearly serve their interests better," said Morrison.

They also use apps for their intrusion detection systems. "From a daily business operation standpoint, we have developed an in-house app that enhances our installation and service technicians' capabilities," Morrison continued.

Technicians can accept service ticket assignments, close out service call assignments and acknowledge arrivals and departures, all via their smartphones. "This saves time for both the techs and office staff where they used to have to communicate via office phone and input the data," he added. "Now, a simple text populates a universal 'Associate Status View' graphic that appears on any desktop."

Traditionally, surveillance was a commercial product; business owners liked the ability to watch the cash register or ensure their employees were actually working. Ward sees that appeal moving to the home market.

From commercial to residential and more

"Apps sell surveillance on the residential side," he said. "They are good for watching the property. But they also are great for false alarm reduction," he added, noting that a customer can view video and cancel an unnecessary dispatch before it becomes a charge.

C.O.P. Security Systems offers a video surveillance app that allows the customer to look at their property while on the go.

Apps also appeal to areas with a Neighborhood Watch program. "If your alarm goes off, you text your neighbors and immediately everyone is looking at your house," Ward noted.

"Clients have little, if any, issues with the concept of using their smartphone as a security or surveillance remote controller, whether at home, at the office or traveling," Morrison agreed.

He is torn between several useful apps. "It is difficult, if not impossible to say one app is more effective than another. This is especially true when you realize they each apply to different aspects of our business," he said. Forced to choose, his preference would be the app for intrusion detection systems only because these systems still dominate sales. "That ability to 'verify' whether the alarm condition is real or not can often be the feature that sells the app."

The app accesses intrusion panels, allowing the client to arm, disarm and monitor status conditions. It has some notification applications such as garage door status (open/close), sump-pump failure, temperature control, environment programmable thermostats and lighting.

Jimenez feels most apps carry a similar feature-set as far as functionality. "It seems like each manufacturer does have its own proprietary app," he said. But he doesn't see this as a huge problem for his company and customers "because we have standardized on a single platform," he explained.

He is also careful not to oversell apps. "I sell apps as a convenient secondary management and quick reference tool while on the go," Jimenez continued. "It doesn't seem realistic or efficient for a manager or business owner to sit and watch video all day via their phone. However, it does allow a person to quickly reference the activity of their facilities and their employees at any given time and place, which then enables a person to more efficiently manage situations based on real-time information (using video)."


"Our affiliates get higher RMR and the retention is better-people using their system are less likely to cancel contracts," Franklyn summed up.


The mobile takeaway




Whether you use apps to stay up to date with industry developments or engage customers, app expectations are in motion and here to stay. "Apps that allow us to work smarter-with any smartphone-are essential in today's struggling and competitive economy," Morrison concluded.


WHAT'S YOUR APP WISH LIST?


"I'd like to see an all-in-one app that integrates any system and pulls together all the information," said James Ward, president of C.O.P. Security, Alexander, Ark. "Rather than having to jump from the alarm app to the surveillance app to the camera app, it would be nice if you could move around in the same app," he explained.


While Richard Jimenez, general manager of IE Alarm Systems, Riverside, Calif., concedes it might be "pie in the sky," he agrees with Ward that a third-party app that integrates multiple platforms would be great. "If I could log into a single app to view the status of and manipulate my CCTV, access control, burglar alarm and fire alarm systems-all from a single GUI-that would be powerful."


"I'd love to see apps incorporate a basic search feature as well as push notifications that can be tied to a motion or alarm event and set on a schedule," said Jimenez.


Art Morrison, operations manager, ProTech Security Inc., North Canton, Ohio, likes the apps. He'd change the documentation to boost ease of use, "preferably without having to reference a user's manual for basic tasks," he said.



An App for Remote Account Management-The MASmobile app from MAS (a business of UTC Fire & Security) allows customers and technicians to view system status summaries, event and test history, zones, contacts and can remotely place systems on and off test. It is compatible with MASterMind (the company's security automation software) versions 6.26+ and operates on iOS version 4.2+.

PSIM Software App-The VidSys mobile app, available on Android and iOS platforms, provides real-time information sharing and two-way collaboration between responders and command center operators. It provides details pertinent to a current situation to ensure an effective response.

Launch This on Your iPad-Matrox Graphics' MuraControl app transforms a users iPad into a touch panel control interface capable of remotely managing input sources on any Matrox Mura MPX-powered video display wall. The free app is available on the App Store.

App Update-Alarm.com's Android App 1.3.4 enables push notifications (cloud to device messaging) for security and home energy alerts. Users can receive real time push alerts even when the app isn't running and avoid per text charges associated with SMS. App users can arm and disarm a system, watch live video and control lights, locks and thermostats.

App Gives Access to Cameras and DVRs-Samsung Techwin America's iPOLiS mobile app enables users remote live video viewing from its network video cameras and digital video recorders (DVRs) using iPhone or Android mobile platforms.

Synchronize This App-MobiDEOS Inc.'s WebSync application allows iPad and Android users to synchronize surveillance operations from the company's MobileCamViewer system and WebView solution for fixed-location monitoring. Future WebSync releases will enable iPhone, Android tablets and BlackBerry devices.

Can't Hack This-SmrtGuard's Pro app provides tablet and other users a suite of device and data protection services including backup and restore, anti-malware and anti-spam, application transparency and anti-theft and location tracking. Other features include SMS blocking; and the scheduling of automatic scanning for malware and spam and application transparency. The app allows its user to track the tablet if lost or stolen and even wipe all information remotely.

Keep your Computer Running Smoothly

Never ever, turn your computer off with the power switch until Windows has shut down. The one exception to this rule is when your computer locks and your hard drive is not running (hard drive light is not blinking). In this situation, you can turn the power off without harmful effects to the hard drive. Cutting the power abruptly can also result in lost data or Windows files; you should only do this when you have to.

Following this rule will prevent permanent hard drive defects caused by the hard drive heads contacting the surface of the drive disc, and it will prevent a host of Windows problems.

Whenever possible you can recover from crashes by pressing the Ctrl + Alt + Delete keys at the same time. Press them again to reboot your computer.

Tech Joke: Computer Gender

An English teacher was explaining to his students the concept of gender association in the English language. He noted how hurricanes at one time were given only female names, and how ships and planes were usually referred to as "she." One of the students raised her hand and asked, "What gender is a computer?" The teacher wasn't certain. So he divided the class into two groups: males in one, females in the other, and asked them to decide if a computer should be masculine or feminine. Both groups were asked to give four reasons for their recommendations.

The group of women concluded that computers should be referred to as masculine because:

1. In order to get their attention, you have to turn them on.

2. They have a lot of data but are still clueless.

3. They are supposed to help you solve your problems, but half the time, they ARE the problem.

4. As soon as you commit to one, you realize that, if you had waited a little longer, you could have had a better model.

The men, on the other hand, decided that computers should definitely be referred to as feminine because:

1. No one but their creator understands their internal logic.

2. The native language they use to communicate with other computers is incomprehensible to everyone else.

3. Even your smallest mistakes are stored in long-term memory for later retrieval.

4. As soon as you make a commitment to one, you find yourself spending half your pay check on accessories for it. 

Taking back control!

By Carissa Daniel November 28^th 2011 at 10:23AM (carissa@frankhilltt.com)

Do you remember needing something at the village shop and quickly running down the street to get the items while not bothering to lock your doors and windows? When was the last time you drove through a community and did not see the houses burglar proofed or 10 feet walls escalated to keep elements out?

Unfortunately, this is the reality of our society today. We live in an environment where infrastructure ensuring our safety and security is a necessity to keep our families, and properties protected. We all agree with the fact that we spend quite a lot of time, energy and more importantly money on acquiring our valuables and as such would like to have the peace of mind knowing that someone else will not invade our privacy and take our valuables.

Well you can have that peace of mind despite the invading elements. In today’s technological market, there are a wide range of products and services that can keep the negative elements out while ensuring the safety and security of you and yours. Products range from CCTV cameras, tracking and monitoring systems, fire and burglar alarms and the list goes on.

There is no need to remain helpless and allow these elements to dictate how we live our lives, where we go and what we do. We can take control and live a more safe and secure life. There are varying security solutions available at www.idsetc.com , which caters to your needs. We offer the do it yourself packages or packages inclusive of installations by our certified technicians. So don’t wait another minute in taking back control of your life, act now and secure you and yours. http://www.idsetcetera.com/products/Outdoor-High-Resolution-IR-Camera.htmlhttp://www.idsetcetera.com/products/Hands-Free-Color-Video-Intercom.htmlhttp://www.idsetcetera.com/products/Hands-Free-Color-Video-Intercom.html

Now is your chance to have a covert spy camera protecting your own property!

By Dayne Thompson November 29^th 2011 at 9:40AM (dayne@frankhilltt.com)

Every human on this planet is working hard for a comfortable living and wants to safeguard his or her investment that they have made in business or work. Ultimately at the end of the day we all seek for security of life and our belongings. The major questions to ask your self is are we really secure?

The world is not perfect and we are susceptible to the dangers that exist in the society hence the urge to feel protected and safe. This could be fulfilled by the use of hidden cameras. If we have to be protected from all the unexpected events and be undeterred by them then we need to have the right devices installed. Be it in the home or the workplace they are the perfect devices available for a great security.

Despite the sad state of events that occur around us we have to protect ourselves from the most obvious dangers to harm us that may be caused by a person we know and trust. A secret hidden spy camera is going to put the control back in your hands. No longer are you helpless about the situation, you can take charge and monitor every move by a secret camera.

By installing a spy camera you can:

•         Keep intruders at bay
•         Monitor your teenage children
•         Use it as a defense mechanism

At ID’s Etc we offer a wide range of these cameras, from outdoor lighting fixtures to indoor devices such as smoke and motion detector spy cameras. You even have the options to have them customized to suit your environment.

So if you have ever wanted the security of a surveillance system that is completed with a conspicuous finish check us at ID’s Etc to have yours installed today!

Give the gift of safety and security this Christmas

By Anna Lisa Maharaj  November 29^th 2011 at 11:34AM (lisa@idsetcetera.com)

With the Christmas holiday right around the corner, the search for that special gift for your loved ones is on. As we all know, in this economy, each dollar counts as we seek a good price for value, while expressing our love and care in careful selections. That is why a burglar alarm system can be a gift the whole family can benefit from. What better gift for a family than the peace of mind and security knowing that their home and premises are secured at all times.  

We at IDs Etcetera offer a wide variety of burglar alarm solutions tailored to your every need. We offer an extensive range of wired and wireless burglar alarm kit systems, keypads, outdoor sirens with strobe light functionality, key fobs, infrared detectors and a whole host of other helpful gift ideas. There is no need to worry about the safety of your family and friends’ household anymore, just enjoy the time spent with loved ones.

Visit us at www.idsetecetra.com and enjoy our online shopping experience from the comfort of your home. While you are there, sign up for our free newsletter which is an added bonus. The gift choices offered not only says that I’m giving you a gift with love but also that I care about your safety and security for many years to come. 

Back to Basics: Functional Requirements

by Carissa Daniel at 23rd October 10:46PM

The first steps to deploying a holistic electronic security philosophy

By: Robert Pearson

Taken from: http://www.securityinfowatch.com/Features/back-basics-functional-requirements

Today, large companies are frequently expanding, and the end-result is a conglomerate of various companies that have been merged together. In these situations, it is highly unusual for the philosophy of the electronic security system — including functionality, scope of implementation and variety of manufacturers — to be standardized.

With the goal of moving to a more holistic electronic security philosophy, these organizations would be best served by developing functional requirements.

Functional requirements have been used for years to provide organization and structure to a security system, they allow for easier installation and upgrades in the future, and they ensure that future projects are cost-effective. The obvious goal is providing more consistent, uniform security across the enterprise.

Standardization

The corporate culture often includes standards for the corporate mission statement, quality control, HR rules and regulations, IT infrastructure and hardware, and much more. The Security department can provide added services and benefits to the corporation through standardization as well.

Electronic security philosophy standards within a corporation are designed to:

1. Develop a common employee identification/access card;
2. Establish consistent procedures and alarm responses;
3. Provide cost savings in the security budget;
4. Ensure compliance with local/national codes and customer requirements;
5. Facilitate a consistent employee and visitor experience and expectation; and
6. Enhance information gathering.

So, what security functions should be standardized? To help answer this question, electronic security must be evaluated by desired functionality vs. the current evolved system — a.k.a. functional requirements. These requirements would state functional attributes that will enhance the electronic security system, thereby bringing about standardization.

For example, large corporations often share a common security access control problem: the lack of a standardized employee identification/access card. These corporations — often as a result of multiple mergers and acquisitions — are faced with access control card/badge systems from multiple vendors, which hinders an employee traveling among the various company facilities.

Management’s desire to develop a “one company/one employee identification access card” philosophy and mindset is hampered by the lack of a security functional requirement (using multiple employee identification badge/access cards).

Thus, the functional requirement might be to implement a standardized employee badge/access card that will facilitate easy movement within all locations of the corporation.

Functional Requirements across the Enterprise

A list of enterprise-wide functional requirements should be developed that will facilitate developing electronic and administrative security solutions. The solutions may overlap several functional requirements — but the requirements must exist before the solutions can be developed.

Implementation of security solutions should incorporate procedures, modifications to facilities and electronic security modifications. Each corporation will have unique requirements, but many are commonly shared, such as the universal employee badge/access card example, which will be referred to throughout this article.

There will be generally understood and/or implied ramifications regarding the universal badge example. Understood ramifications would be:

1. Employee badges must conform to a standard visual format (photo size, colors, information printed on the badge, use of nicknames, clearances, etc.); and

2. The badge will allow visual and electronic access to general areas within all corporate facilities.

Examples of implicit ramifications include the sharing of credential numbers across all facilities, while ensuring that there are no duplications of credential numbers. To address this, a manual and/or automatic process must be put in place. The automated process eliminates human error, although it adds to the overall cost of the system.

Why are these ramifications important? If there are facilities that are primarily controlled by visual badge checking, then obviously a standardized, visually recognizable badge would be desired. Without electronic standards, the technology in the card, as well as the credential number in the database, will not allow access at different facilities without having to deploy multiple cards. This implied standardization requires standards for technology, protocols and a credential number for each employee that is shared in some fashion within the corporation with the various facilities.

The choice of technology for the electronic access control system — proximity, smart cards, etc. — is often based on corporate culture. The technology must be incorporated into every facility and new ones as they come aboard. Minimal training should be considered to educate employees on the new technology.

Depending on the existing access control systems, multi-technology cards and readers may be required as part of a transition plan. Each facility will also have to develop a roadmap explaining the path it will take to conform to the functional requirement.

A World of Requirements

Other functional security areas include video surveillance, intrusion and fire alarms, control center operations, and many more.

A possible functional requirement for video surveillance could be a desire that all camera coverage is recorded and automatically available to the Security Investigation department’s office for review and evaluation of cases.
A possible functional requirement for security central station(s) could incorporate a regional, business group or corporate-wide UL security control center(s) to monitor the alarm systems.

The key is that the functional requirements must be developed at the enterprise level, which will certainly effect the corporation’s culture, environment, employees, security requirements, existing electronic security systems and customers.

The Next Step: Security Surveys

After the functional requirements are developed for the corporation, the next step is to understand what electronic security functionality exists at each facility. A Security Survey should be sent to each facility or group of facilities that are under the oversight of a given Security manager, along with an explanation about the reasons for the survey.

The survey may, in and of itself, uncover additional functional requirements that need to be added to the list. The surveys help an electronic security expert to find the best solutions that are most cost-effective to achieve the functional requirements of the corporation. A spreadsheet developed from the surveys will illustrate the current status at each facility.

After the process of standardization begins, it is important to know and control any planned expenditure for electronic security equipment that could impact the enterprise functional requirements at a given facility to minimize additional cost.
With the survey results and the functional requirements in hand, a large corporation can finally begin to discover the best options for accomplishing its functional requirements.

Just like there is no single badge/access card technology that addresses all issues, there is no single way to accomplish a given functional requirement. The challenge for the security professional is finding the technology most suitable for said functional requirements. Solving functional requirements is more of an art form than it is a scientific method. Obviously science and technology are part of the solution, but the way the technologies are used and interconnected to achieve the functional requirement is more of a creative and intuitive process.

There are many other electronic security components that might also be addressed in the standardization process. Decisions will be made to determine if these components are an issue or not during the development of the functional requirements.
Back to the universal badge example: The cost of manufacturing and updating employee badge/access cards is a process that has substantial recurring year-after-year labor and material cost. After implementing the functional requirement of a universal employee badge/access card, cost savings will be realized on a continuing basis.

Securing Your Network

By Anna Lisa Maharaj at 27th October 9:53AM 

At home or at work, it's important to secure your network. Most businesses will have a IT person or contractor that will setup network security. However, most home users are unfamiliar with networks. When you purchase a router or wireless access point from a retailer it is setup to default which is a widely known username and password. Before you install your router at home right after it's out of the box, setup a password of your own and enable security options. You can find out how to do this by reading the user manual of your product. If you don't setup security, anyone within a specific distance of your home can access your network and possibly your information without you even knowing!

Proximity Cards

By Anna Lisa Maharaj October 24th 2011 at 12:40PM

A Proximity card is a generic name for contactless integrated circuit devices used for security access or payment systems. They are one of the more popular ways to lock buildings from undesired guests while avoiding dealing with physical keys. Just stuff the card in your wallet and swipe it against a proximity card reader pad, which beeps cheerfully, flashes a green light and the door opens. Or it politely rejects you by beeping and flashing a stern red light. Or if you are like a few of my friends it blinks a light, and beeps in a cheerful manner and either lets you in or it doesn't. Securing buildings isn't the only thing that proximity technology is used for. Proximity technology is used in: pay cards, transit cards, key cards, and more.

A Proximity Card is a small credit card sized passive electronic device which is typically used for physical access control. Simple cards return a code when activated; more complex cards are basically a wireless smart card which issues an encrypted challenge response along with stored personal information.

Proximity cards are the entry method of choice, it allows keys to be given out in mass, combined with a computerized building entry system keys can be activated or de-activated with a minimum amount of physical effort. They cards themselves are convenient to the user because they can walk up to a door and either hold the card within 3 inches of the pad and the door will open as opposed to fishing through a large key chain.

Because the old style proximity card systems rely on a static analog signal for identification, the basic installations have a serious flaw which makes the system as effective as an old style physical lock. The new standards including cryptographic handshaking are much more effective for security. They are available at www.idsetcetera.com also visit our Facebook page at Ids Etcetera for any additional information or concerns you may have.

Ever got in an accident and would love to have recorded proof of who was in the wrong?

By Dayne Thompson October 24th 2011 at 9:40AM

Well now you can with the Vehicle Battery Powered Portable DVR available at ID’s Etc. This battery operated security DVR is intended for placement inside vehicles. It's very easy to install (and remove), and operates using a cigarette lighter adapter (auxiliary power output). Operation is intuitive and flexible, with adjustable recording resolution, camera control, and frame rate.

The powerful, small device comes with two cameras (front and back), a GPS and even a speedometer. The back camera records the activities within the vehicle, which is excellent for taxi drivers who exposed to the public on daily basis and at random hours. The front camera records the roadway, with the ability to even pick up licence plates of automobiles in transit. The nifty DVR also houses a GPS that tells you exactly where you are with a time stamp and what rate the vehicle is currently travelling at.

Another neat feature of this device is that it also has two recording methods, automatic and manual. When an accident occurs or if the g-force sensor detects an unusual stop or start (acceleration/deceleration), the DVR automatically detects the event and begins recording. Recording can also be initiated manually by the driver or anyone inside the vehicle.

Video files aren't much use unless you can do something with them. This portable DVR uses a removable high capacity SD card (SDHC) for memory, which makes organizing video files easy. Remove the card at the end of the shift or run and transfer video to your archives. 

Free software (included with the device) lets you play the video back and see all the important vehicle factors like speed, course (using Google map overlay), direction, g-forces and more. You can, of course, search video, FF and reverse, and perform other functions common to most DVR video software.

So if you are looking for a unique innovative gift for that man in your life, why not surprise him with the Vehicle Battery Powered Portable DVR. It is ideal for recreational vehicles, tours, luxury yachts in the case of personal use, but can also prove to be an excellent tool in the mass transit and government based industries in vehicles such as, armoured trucks, public buses, taxis, commercial vehicles, ambulance, police cars and many more!

Make some money by becoming a FHL Affiliate

By Carissa Daniel October 23rd 2011 at 11:23AM

FrankHillLtd is a young, dynamic, custom residential, commercial and industrial electronics integrator. Since 2008, we have provided integrated solutions in:

• CCTV
• Building Automation
• Digital Signage
•  IP Telephony PBX
• Structured Cobux
• Access Control
• Security Systems
• Computer Maintenance
• E-cycling
• Solar power
• Intercom systems
• Whole building audio
• Gate control barriers
• Consultancy
• Fire alarm installation
• Employee Identification Cards, design and printing
• Home Theater installations
• Structured network cabling

 Introduction

Take advantage of this great opportunity to become an affiliate of FrankHill Limited (FHL). It is quite simple, you send us bona fide customers and we pay you. Commissions are 5% of the original Invoice value up to a maximum of $50,000.00.  Imagine all that money just for promoting FHL and bringing in customers.

  

FAQs

1.    Why does FHL want Affiliates?

Given the vastness of our region, it is almost impossible for us to reach all potential customers. This is where you come in. Through your networks, colleagues, friends and family you can advertise the various products and services provided by FHL and allow them to benefit from best in class, economical packages.

2.    Who is considered a bona fide customer?

A customer is deemed a bona fide customer when he/she accepts products and/or services offered by FHL.

3.    What does it cost to join?

Nothing

4.    How much will I be paid?

You will be paid 5% of the original Invoice value up to a maximum of $50,000.00.

5.    When will I be paid?

An Affiliate will be paid on a monthly basis by cheque only. Payments will be issued when an Invoice is submitted by the Affiliate and approved by a FHL representative.

6.    If I decide to not be an Affiliate anymore, what happens?

You or FHL may terminate your agreement at any time by giving each other ten (10) days prior written notice. Upon termination by either party all outstanding Affiliate fees due to you at that time will be settled in full within thirty (30) days.

7.    How do I join?

You can join by completing the application form and agreeing to the terms and conditions outlined. Upon the completion of your application you will receive an Affiliate code which should be given to each customer you refer to FHL. This code will be considered your ID code and will be used to trace all referrals made.