Chubb Electronic Security has launched Monitor AFx, a new integrated security management (ISM) technology designed to integrate and manage each element of a site’s entire electronic security installation, and deliver new levels of control accordingly, according to the makers.
The concept of ISM is, on the surface, quite simple, the makers say: combining the data from two or more previously independent devices, such as CCTV cameras and access control readers, onto one software application, with one database, using an existing IT network as host. As well as security, point monitoring of building management sensors, such as heating or cooling system alarms and even basic lift control can also be performed. All of this is achieved via a front-end software package – or Graphical User Interface (GUI) – from one platform, where previously each system required its own panel and cabling, and operated in isolation. Unlike ‘traditional’ electronic security products, this software programme adds intelligence to, and simplifies the management of the information received from the control panel, the makers say.
What they say
James Moran, Product Manager for Integrated Security Systems at Chubb Electronic Security, says: "Monitor AFx combines the data from every device, sorts and interprets it, and effectively re-presents it to the user in a way that allows much greater efficiency. As each device is connected to the IT infrastructure using common protocols, not only can the security manager remotely monitor the data that device is collecting, but can also perform a variety of administrative and maintenance functions without the need to be physically present at each location."
Monitor AFx brings with it a number of advantages to all manner of organisations, from single office businesses to multi-site global corporations, it is claimed, not least of which is the ability to further enhance security by affording greater control.
Moran adds: "By running access control, intruder alarm and CCTV systems as one, it is possible to maximise security in ways not previously possible.For example, unoccupied areas can remain fully alarmed; incident reporting can show combined access control, intruder and CCTV event logs for any person entering a site; even the performance of patrolling guards can be monitored by requiring them to ‘clock-in’ at specified locations within defined time-windows (a so-called ‘guard tour’ functionality). Security information can be merged with other measurement information to provide a more detailed, more accurate picture of the integrity of a site."
Chubb says that research into companies who have adopted an ISM strategy globally indicates that some are benefiting from significantly lower security costs. Savings are made as soon as the system is installed – for example by avoiding further control panels and cabling labour costs for each technology added (ie ‘scalability’), or each new building opened. Monitor AFx grows as the physical scale of your business grows. But the real savings have been found, it is claimed, in operational efficiency: reduced false alarm rates, simplified maintenance, reduced servicing costs, centralised card control and lower training expenditure. "When compared to the more conventional technology which standalone electronic security systems employ to this day, Monitor AFx is suddenly presenting a compelling new bundle of value propositions to the customer," Moran adds.
