Why Should You Use Commercial Wireless Products?
by Chris Mayes
October 1, 2007
In which application does a commercial wireless security system make sense, and how can I evaluate the different solutions on the market?
The short answer is that a commercial wireless system is suitable for practically any security application, from intrusion monitoring to panic duress and most things in between.
There are many benefits to using a commercial wireless security system, but the primary two are saving time and money on installations. Virtually any size installation from a single retail or office space with a few thousand square feet, to a multi-building campus with millions of square feet, can benefit from using a commercial wireless security system. When dealing with installation challenges such as restrictive architectures or a short installation window, a commercial wireless security system also can be advantageous.
When evaluating wireless security systems, the No. 1 consideration must be reliability. As recently as 10 years ago, wireless security systems were widely seen as point solutions rather than building-wide systems.
Significant advances in battery life, radio ranges and reliability, including noise immunity and redundant signals, have changed this to the point where wireless security systems make sense as the platform for practically any commercial environment.
Installers should verify that wireless equipment is installed optimally.
Another key feature of wireless systems should be compatibility with a wide range of security panels and manufacturers. This will make additions to existing hardwired systems simpler and more cost-effective.
Because wireless systems often are used on campuses and other large sites, the wireless system selected needs to have the expandable range suitable for the application.
To ensure a wired or wireless security system is functioning properly, it should be able to check itself.
Whether securing a medical campus or a retail storefront, a wireless system will save a great deal in time and labor costs. Taking the time upfront to ensure that the right system has been specified will ensure the installation goes smoothly and the resulting system is reliable and accurate.
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