Just Googling around...

Taken from:  http://www.180techtips.com/2.htm

The internet is big, really, really big, and if you want to use it effectively you have to be familiar with search engines. Google.com has become the search engine of choice for millions of internet users.  There are others and if the past is any guide there will be a “better than Google” search engine some day, but for now Google seems to be the best.  Part of the reason they are the best is that they keep developing new ways of looking at the internet.  Below are a couple additional features that Google offers that you might want to check out now and in the future as they continue to develop:

http://news.google.com/  Need a current event?  Forget about the newspaper, use the internet like teenagers do to find stories that are only minutes old.

http://images.google.com/  Arguably the best image search engine in the world.  Try finding a picture of something today.

http://www.google.com/products  Looking to make a purchase. Shop and compare prices online first using Google's Product Search.

http://www.google.com/finance  What to check the stock market, try this website for a quick overview.

http://maps.google.com/   Looking for an up to date map or satellite photo, check out these amazingly easy to manipulate maps and photos.

http://video.google.com/  Google has their own video search engine.  Find an educational video on the internet that you can play for your class

http://scholar.google.com/  Another project that Google is working on is to create a more efficient way to search scholarly papers.

http://books.google.com/  This is a great way to jump into some literature.  Check out a book online, read some passages and find out where you can buy a copy.

New motion sensor/camera launched

Taken from: http://www.securitysystemsnews.com/article/alarmcom-new-motion-sensor-camera-launched

By: Tess Nacelewicz

VIENNA, Va. and OREM, Utah—After a successful six-month beta test, Alarm.com this week announced the general availability of its Image Sensor—a wireless device that combines a motion detector with a built-in still camera, allowing homeowners to view “snapshots” of what’s happening in their homes from their smartphones or other devices.

Pinnacle Security recently completed a nationwide pilot program selling the battery-operated device, billed as a more affordable option to a video camera. Jay Kenny, Alarm.com VP of marketing, described the pilot partnership with Pinnacle as “dramatically more successful than we had hoped.”

Kenny told Security Systems News that Alarm.com, a Virginia-based provider of interactive security solutions, thought Pinnacle might sell about 2,000 Image Sensors. Instead, he said, “they were really successful and did over 10,000.”

Kevin Woodworth, VP of product development for Pinnacle, confirmed that customers liked the product so much the company sold more than 10,000 in the pilot program, which SSN reported on last spring, and it plans to keep selling more this year.

“It’s one of our key pieces of product in our product portfolio,” Woodworth said. “We have big plans for 2012. We hope to increase the attach rates dramatically.”

Kenny said the Image Sensor “is a simple, easy, affordable way to get a view into your home. … We think it has appeal to basically every customer who’s getting a security system installed.”

The Pinnacle pilot involved the GE Simon XT control panel, with which the Image Sensor is compatible, Kenny said. Later this year, it will be available with the Interlogix Concord and the 2Gig Go!Control panel, according to Alarm.com’s Jan. 23 news release.

Kenny described the sensor as a “combination of a traditional PIR motion sensor with an integrated still camera for image capture, and [it’s] then connected to interactive services so you get to view those images and get alerted when they happen.”

The Image Sensor camera has an infrared LED flash that allows it to take pictures night or day. It also can be used to track both alarm events and non-alarm activity, such as when a child comes through the front door after school.

It “takes a picture and emails it to the parent or text messages it to the parent, and now they can actually see their child coming home from school safe and sound,” Woodworth said.

Also, Kenny said, “I can set it up so next time there’s motion in my living room, I want to see that image.”

Woodworth said one customer was able to use Image Sensor snapshots to help police after her television was stolen from her home. Although her alarm system activated, the thieves were gone when police arrived. However, the woman was able to identify them as neighborhood teens with the aid of the images sent to her, Woodworth said.

Pinnacle sold the product as an add-on to a security system, with the cost about the same as that of a traditional motion detector.

Woodworth said that while it’s early to talk about attrition rates in a six-month pilot, accounts with Image Sensor are performing very well compared to accounts without it.

Kenny said being wireless is one of Image Sensor’s appeals. “You’re not connected to a broadband connection that could go down or be cut from the outside,” he said. Also, he said, installation is much simpler.

How to Crimp Cat5E Network Cables

AOC. F22 22" Class Wide LCD Blk/1080P/1920x1080/5ms/DVI/VGA

Innovation and style best describes the AOC F22 22" Class Widescreen LCD Monitor.

The AOC F22 has a unique design with a single post stand that you can adjust to your preference.

The AOC F22's smooth piano black finish and white back makes this monitor the final touch to a clean, stylish desk, but is also wall mountable.

To go along with its performance this monitor boasts 30,000:1 Dynamic contrast ratio along with 5ms response time to provide crystal clear viewing experience for video and precise editing.

The AOC F22 serves as a powerful monitor for business applications as well as video player with both analog and digital inputs.

This monitor is the perfect choice for those who enjoy the photo frame design of the smaller F19 model, but want a larger screen and improved performance.

What It Is And Why You Need It:

• Provides great performance and design at 22" level and offers more control with customizable dynamic color boost options. 

Check out: http://www.idsetcetera.com/products/AOC.-F22-22%22-Class-Wide-LCD-Blk%7B47%7D1080P%7B47%7D1920x1080%7B47%7D5ms%7B47%7DDVI%7B47%7DVGA.html

A Reality Check On The Cloning Of Proximity Cards

[Editor's note: At the RSA Conference in San Francisco earlier this month, InfoWorld magazine released a video from tech firm IOActive, where the companies tech staff claimed to have been able to build a prox card cloning device. The video of that claim from the conference is available at this link. What's more, the threat of cloning proximity cards (not smart cards) is something that's been picked up by the consumer broadcast media, including KOMO-TV in Seattle. SecurityInfoWatch.com responded by asking leading card supplier HID Global to respond to the allegations that RFID-based proximity cards could be easily cloned and to discuss the related security measures that should be involved in any electronic access control system. Their op-ed response appears below.] Click on the link below to continue reading...
http://www.securityinfowatch.com/article/10558103/a-reality-check-on-the-cloning-of-proximity-cards

Secure your home this Carnival

The spirit of Carnival is definitely all around us. Anyone who does not know it or feel it probably lives under a rock. People are away from their homes and properties attending fetes and parties throughout the country. How secure do you feel about the safety and security of your home or property?

You can rest easy while partying with one of our burglar alarm systems and/or video surveillance systems, that will keep the criminal element out of your home and property.

Don't wait to be a victim, act now. Check us out for convenient, secure online shopping and quick installation from our certified and experienced technicians. We also offer affordable integrated packages, which allows you to view your property from your smart phone, tablet or pc from anywhere, including the fete.

Act now! http://www.idsetcetera.com/categories/Burglar-Alarm-Systems/

Linksys E1200 Wireless-N Router

• Enjoy the benefits of Wireless-N (802.11n) in your home ideal for surfing the web, emailing and printing wirelessly.
• Connect your computers, wireless printers, smartphones, and other wireless devices at up to 300 Mbps transfer speed
• Enjoy broad wireless coverage provided by MIMO antenna technology
• Use four Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) ports to directly connect wired devices
• Keep your network protected with customizable security settings, including WPA/WPA2 Personal and SPI firewall protection
• Give visitors password-protected Internet access on a separate network?so your visitors have access to the Internet, but not your computers or data
• Set up your wireless network in three easy steps using included Cisco Connect software
• Use Cisco Connect's Parental Controls to block specific websites and restrict Internet access during certain hours

http://www.idsetcetera.com/linksys-e1200-wireless-n-router/

Get the best deals on Hard Drives!

WD Advanced Format technology increases media format efficiency, thus enabling larger drive capacities. WD Advanced Format drives are specifically optimized for Mac and the latest Windows operating systems such as Windows Vista and Windows 7. WD Advanced Format drives work with legacy operating systems such as Windows XP but require the use of the free WD Align software available on www.wdc.com/advformat.

Available in capacities up to 2 TB, WD Caviar® Green™ SATA hard drives reduce power consumption by up to 40% and offer best-in-class acoustics and operating temperature. Based on WD's exclusive GreenPower™ technology, these drives are designed to deliver power savings as the primary attribute. As hard drive capacities increase, the power required to run those drives increases as well. WD Caviar Green drives make it possible for energy-conscious customers to build systems with higher capacities and the right balance of system performance, ensured reliability, and energy conservation. They are ideal for PCs, external storage and other devices that require lower power consumption and cool, quiet operation.

Get it at ID's Etc today!

Axis Debuts New In-Camera Chip

Video surveillance equipment manufacturer Axis Communications this week introduced a new in-camera chip, ARTPEC-4 (Axis Real Time Picture Encoder), which the company says will enhance image quality and video analytics performance in its network cameras and encoders.

According to a statement, ARTPEC is designed to provide video with lower noise and higher light sensitivity, thereby delivering sharper images of moving objects. The chip also uses Axis' Lightfinder technology, which allows a network camera to see colors and other details in dark and low-light conditions. Click on link below to continue reading...

http://www.securityinfowatch.com/news/10612610/axis-debuts-new-in-camera-chip

Badge Reel w/ Clear Vinyl Strap & Belt Clip

This round solid colored badge reel with belt clip allows you to scan or swipe your ID card with convenience. The plastic badge reel is equipped with nearly three feet (864 mm) of cord for easy identification. The round badge reel comes with a slide-type belt clip so that the reel may be fastened onto the user's clothing. The badge reel is finished with a clear vinyl strap for attachment to slotted contents. The round badge reel with clear vinyl strap is available in a variety of solid colors.


http://www.idsetcetera.com/products/Badge-Reel-w%7B47%7D-Clear-Vinyl-Strap-%26-Belt-Clip.html

DSC Alexor 2-Way Wireless Keyfob

Greater Protection. Complete Security

How would you like a security system that provides complete security via a host of devices, including keypads, sirens, detectors and wireless keys, and also supports GSM and IP communications – all of it wirelessly? DSC's 2-Way Wireless Security Suite delivers just that…and so much more.

Product Features

• Backlit icon display
• Built-in buzzer for audible feedback
• Key tactile feedback
• 4 one touch function keys, programmable for up to 6 functions
• Status button indication
• Wireless key keylock
• Active alarm indication
• Water resistant
• Multifunction clip
• Nominal Battery life - 3 years
• Compatible with Alexor ONLY

Check out: http://www.idsetcetera.com/products/DSC-Alexor-2%252dWay-Wireless-Keyfob.html

Ticket E.A.S.E- Electronic Admissions System for Events

Features

A complete events admission service which includes:

·    Design and/or printing of smart tickets

·    Gate service

Customers are furnished with a best in class, electronic system:

·    Full color, high definition, distinctive and durable electronically coded tickets

·    Event Reports (Attendees, Time Lapse)

Benefits

·    Quick processing of attendees to reduce bottle neck frustration of customers

·    Eliminate revenue loss from counterfeiting and “pass back” on same ticket

·    Maximise box office sales without jeopardising Venue capacity safety restrictions 

    and ensuring that late ticket holding patrons are "reserved" a space

·    Learn how to optimise bar and early attendance promotions from full reported 

    visibility on the attendance distribution over time at the event

·    Aesthetically attractive

Contact us for more information today!!

There are 3 things to keep in mind when setting up a home security surveillance system

Taken from: Aspects of home security by Ron McBride: http://www.homesecuritystore.com

1. Are you going to go with a wired or wireless system?

Depending on your installation you must decide the type of system to purchase. Cameras can be placed on walls, doors, ceilings, in stuffed animals, in plants and so on. For this reason and for an easier installation going with a wireless system is the way to go if you can.

2. Where are you going to place your cameras?

You can place them where they're hard to be seen, which allows you to spy on anything going on illegally in your home. Or you can place them where they can be seen, which could become a deterrent to any misconduct that could go on around your home.


3. What is your budget?

There are many different types of security cameras that you can purchase. Of course the more expensive the camera the more functionality they offer. Some will even send a video image to your cell phone or a computer at your work. Black and white home security surveillance cameras are less expensive than colour ones. However, colour cameras do provide you with better pictures and a more clear idea of what is going on in your home.

Man, 65, nabbed with $60,000 in cell phones

Taken from: Trinidad Express on Dec. 15^th, 2011

An elderly man was caught on Wednesday attempting to flee a Santa Cruz cellular telephone store with $60,000 worth of stolen loot.

Police said around 3.30 a.m. officers of the San Juan Police Station were on mobile patrol when they were alerted by the sound of a burglar alarm of a business place located along Saddle Road, San Juan. Investigating officers caught the suspect, aged 65, climbing out of the roof of the business place with a bag in his hand.

Officers checked the bag and found 23 cell phones. Another bag in the man's possession contained a hacksaw, a pair of pliers, flashlights and a crow bar. He was arrested and then taken to the San Juan Police Station where he was charged. Police said he is expected to appear before a Port of Spain magistrate today.

Frankie the Capuchin knows...

Frankie the capuchin is considered one of the most intelligent monkeys in the world.  He is also protective of his loved ones, is constantly aware of his surroundings and ensures the safety of what he considers his. These are similar qualities we should emulate, when it comes to the safety, security and comfort of our family and property. These qualities are especially important due to the unfortunate state of our society and the need for a safe, comfortable environment for our loved ones.

He uses a number of mechanisms to protect his family and to make his life a lot easier in the wild! Imagine getting the same security that Frankie uses in the wild, through a modernized technological medium that protects your family and assets while making life easier. Imagine not having to worry about the safety, security and comfort of the things that really matter.

Frankie says; in an attempt to secure your loved ones and assets get a wireless Alexor system installed in your home. It will alert you when there is an intruder at your premises causing unrest and unnecessary financial strain. If you want to deter these law breakers or even capture them on tape, install one of Frankie’s recommended CCTV systems. You can also check up on your property from anywhere in the world on your PC, iPad or Android devices.

For commercial institutions Frankie recommends a secure compound with a detailed record of who is on the compound. This can be easily achieved through a full access control system with card or genetic readers. Access control systems also allow you to effectively manage your staff.

Frankie is an advocate of comfort and luxury; he believes we should all enjoy some measure of comfort, living in this fast past world. He points you in the direction of a home automation system, which allows you to turn your lights on from anywhere in the world, turn the water on in shower as soon as you step inside and control most aspects of your home from one single device.

Frankie strives to get the best out of life, by making use of the ever rapidly growing technology which has become easy and affordable for the everyday person, with minimum fuss or maintenance. After all having a dog isn’t the best idea of safety for our intelligent, protective self aware primate friend! 

Importance of Residential and Commercial CCTV Security Systems

With the rise in crime rates, CCTV cameras have become an important aspect in our modern world. They can also be used for traffic purposes as well and this can make having them around a great thing. Not only does the unfortunate increase in crime demand more CCTV cameras, but the convenience it can offer is also an excellent benefit.

As far as property crime is involved, such as car theft there has been found many times over a reduced rate when CCTV cameras are being used in the area. It can reduce property theft by deterring those who would otherwise commit these crimes when they see a CCTV there. This type of deterrent can also work well when it comes to shoplifting and vandalism. In fact, it has shown to bring a decrease to both of these violations, making installing a CCTV in these types of situations invaluable. Many other crimes such as burglary and arson are also deterred by the use of CCTV cameras. These kinds of crimes greatly benefit from the installation and use of CCTV cameras, but what about personal crime?

An interesting study has been done in regards to personal crime, such as an assault, and the effectiveness of a CCTV camera to prevent it. It includes the concept of rational choice theory, where a suspect decides whether or not to commit the crime, moments before hand, with the help of different kinds of cues from around them. This means a criminal is less likely to carry out a personal crime such as assault on a victim that is near a CCTV camera or within range of one. The fact that the camera can pick up the suspects details and be caught later on will greatly deter someone from committing a crime within view of the CCTV camera. This makes having CCTV cameras around a very important step in preventing many of these types of crimes. It also makes being aware if there are CCTVs around important as well, to help protect yourself in certain situations. Not only does it help prevent some of these personal crimes, it can also deter drug crime as well.

Some other important aspects to setting up CCTV cameras are that it can also help prevent crimes in the surrounding areas as well. Although the crime may move to another area that does not have a CCTV camera, it has actually shown that it helps reduce crime overall and this is very important. It can also help encourage areas and places that do not have CCTV cameras to start using them, as they begin to see the benefits gained by others who do use them.

Besides these obvious benefits, having CCTV cameras around is very important to peace of mind to the everyday citizen. Especially with terrorism as a new concern that many people have on their mind. With the increase of CCTV cameras around most people begin to feel more comfortable and have greater peace of mind. They feel that it is more likely that criminals and terrorists will be caught because of the presence of these cameras. Having peace of mind because of the presence of these CCTV cameras can be a very important reason to use them.

With all the great benefits and the reduction of crime rate there are many reasons why CCTV is important to the modern world. When you have a great reduction of crime rates and the peace of mind that comes with that, CCTV is very important in this aspect. No price can be put on the peace of mind that can come from knowing there is someone watching and keeping an eye out on your safety and well-being.

Electronic surveillance at night clubs and bars

Trinidad is famous for its night life, and offers a wide variety of night clubs and bars in most populated areas. The clubs and bars attract patrons excited to release stress and simply have a good time in a safe and secure environment and likewise, attract unwelcoming criminal elements looking for their next target.

This is the reality we currently face. As such business owners must ensure the safety and security of their patrons, staff and property. For these reasons and more a security surveillance system is indeed a good investment. This can be innovatively, aesthetically and affordably done through the use of a security surveillance system.

A security surveillance system offers a wide range of technologically advanced equipment which can be tailored to the individual needs of the business owner. They may include video cameras, recorders, burglar alarm systems, integrated computerised cash registers, access control systems, ID scanners and the list goes on. 

Video cameras for instance are common at clubs and are controlled by the owners. Footage can be retained as evidence in an attempt an incident occurs. In countries such as the United States there is proposed legislation which would mandate club owners to install video surveillance cameras at club entrances and exits and also retain the footage for a certain period of time. Other items in the new law would require clubs to use electronic ID scanners to verify and download a patron’s state-issued identification. The City government of Milwaukee takes the law a step further and is proposing legislation that clubs record and retain video footage of patrons throughout their establishments. These countries have identified the importance of surveillance systems and are implementing the necessary measures.

Security surveillance systems are not only used to guard against  criminal elements as identified above but through the use of developing technology it offers other integrated solutions. Facial recognition software is now being tested at clubs in other countries. Many club and bar owners have wisely instituted measures such as ID scanners in an attempt to avoid under age patrons and security cameras for risk-management reasons. These measures safeguards the owners from the liability of underage patrons being found intoxicated or injured on their premises, which can lead to severe criminal, civil and regulatory penalties.

Other uses include security cameras at entrances where every movement is recorded with audio. This can possibly protect the integrity of the owners against false allegations by disgruntled patrons who may claim they were discriminated against failing entry but were really denied because they did not meet dress code standards or because the venue was full.

Security surveillance creates a safe and secure environment for all transactions taking place for both the customer and the business alike. Business owners should ensure their customers are receiving value for money which does not only include an exciting experience but also includes a safe and secure experience for all.

For a wide range of security surveillance systems check us out at www.idsetcetera.com and secure your patrons, staff and property today! Do not allow your business to fall prey to these unfortunate incidents and ensure the long term sustainability of your establishment by investing wisely.

Maslow endorses the need for safety and security

Is your need for safety and security satisfied? Do you feel safe in your home? Is your family 100% secured? Is your property safe and secure from fire and theft? Are you certain all persons on your compound are authorized?

Abraham Maslow, renowned psychologist endorsed the high importance of safety and security. In Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, safety and security of person, family, property and belongings rank second on the pyramid. It is described as one of man’s most basic needs.

This therefore suggests once we satisfy this need and feel a sense of safety and security we can continue growing and exploring new heights. When thinking about the aforementioned questions were your answers all positive, negative or indecisive? If they were positive then “hats off” to you in satisfying your basic need, now unto the next need to conquer. However, if your answers were negative or indecisive then continue reading.

Within recent time security services has been a choicest industry, due to the high demands for safety and security. This is as a result of the unfortunate state of society. However, as with other elements of life, man must adapt to survive and so too must we adapt to protect and secure ourselves and property.

As you make your list of needs and goals to satisfy and accomplish for 2012, remember to assess your need for safety and security for you, your family and property. Take advantage of the vast technological advances in security surveillance systems, burglar alarm systems, fire alarm systems, access control systems and much more.

Check out www.idsetcetera.com for a wide range of safety and security products to satisfy your needs and pocket.

Lack of detectors = tragic Christmas fire lesson

The early morning Christmas Day house fire in Connecticut that took the lives of three little girls and their grandparents is an event sad beyond all words.

And adding to the sadness is a report that the century-old Victorian mansion’s smoke detectors weren’t working as the blaze—which officials say was caused by fireplace embers that were improperly disposed of—raced through the wood structure as everyone was sleeping around 3 a.m.

I can’t help imagining a totally different outcome if functioning detectors—or a monitored fire detection system—had been safely protecting this home...to continue reading click on the link below: http://www.securitysystemsnews.com/blog/lack-detectors-tragic-christmas-fire-lesson

Home surveillance video trips up murder defendant

Scott Pattison told police that he came home from work and found his wife with a weight bar pinned across her throat. His account of his wife’s tragic death may have held up except for the fact that he had forgotten that he had equipped his home with a surveillance system...continue reading by clicking on the link below. 
http://www.securityinfowatch.com/Residential/1323657?pageNum=1