We are delighted to welcome Ian Livesey to ESI. Ian joins us with nearly 30 years experience in the security industry. He is a very welcome addition to our team. Good Luck Ian- we hope you will enjoy life at ESI!
Welcome to Our New Engineer
November 24, 2011 By Leave a Comment
IP-CCTV… Why it’s not there yet!
October 13, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Picture Credit: Ryan Franklin
IP-CCTV is often specified as the most up-to-date option, but is it all it’s cracked up to be?
The latest architect’s tender document on our desk today got us talking again about IP-CCTV*;the latest buzz phrase in the world of CCTV. *internet-protocol CCTV
In the UK less than 5% of CCTV is IP based, compared to around 20% in Central Europe. This is often cited as proof that the UK is lagging behind. However, as with all statistics, dig a little deeper and it is clear that this figure is distorted by the huge number of legacy systems in the UK. The truth is that the UK has been ahead of the field for many years in the world of CCTV.
The theoretical advantage of IP-CCTV is that it uses the existing infrastructure (i.e. it plugs into the existing network) thereby removing the need for separate cabling. This theoretical cost saving is supposed to more than off-set the increased cost of the IP cameras (which are 3 or 4 times the price). The reality however, is a huge amount of data being constantly passed through the network causing problems with the operating speed of the clients’ computer systems. The solution is back to separate cabling which negates all cost savings and ultimately results in a very expensive system.
Another possible solution is to specify de-centralised IP-CCTV using Edge Technology. This involves installing an SD card in every camera. These cameras record at Hi-Resolution, but on the down-side only send the lower quality observational grade images to the central point, resulting is a less impressive solution. On the plus side, the cameras will continue to record for around 2 days if the network fails.
Another consideration is choice. Digital CCTV is a saturated market; there are 100’s of cameras to choose from, meaning that all applications are covered. In addition Digital CCTV is open-protocol meaning that equipment from different manufacturers can be combined to design a truly bespoke system. Open-Protocol means that digital systems are easily upgraded at a later date and can take advantage of any advances in camera technology.
Whilst some IP-CCTV suppliers are currently open-protocol, the large manufactures such as Samsung are producing closed protocol IP-CCTV. This means that clients are tied to one manufacturer, which limits choice. In addition, whilst some suppliers are still offering the software licences free of charge, not all are. There are no assurances that protocols will not be further closed.
In summary… IP-CCTV might not be the ideal solution after-all. We are currently recommending a “watch and see” approach!
Wireless CCTV protects Christmas Turkeys!
October 11, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Photo credit: A. Drauglis
It has always been harder to secure valuable property which is kept outside – for example diesel tanks stored in a yard or livestock in a field.
The BBC reported on one farmer in Devon who had more than 1000 turkeys stolen last year, and was faced with a bill of £18,000 after being targeted more than 20 times.
Clearly this type of property cannot be protected by lock and key or a burglar alarm.
The good news is there is now a highly effective way of protecting property in exterior areas – wireless remote monitored CCTV.
The beauty of this system lies in its flexibility. Because it is wireless, Electronic Security Installations can offer it on a temporary month by month rental basis making it a cost effective solution to protect against more temporary security threats. With prices from £300+vat pm it is a very attractive alternative to employing temporary manned guarding.
Find out more here
Little Blessings Opens in Buxton
October 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment
We are delighted to have been able to help new charity venture Little Blessings in Buxton. We set up their burglar alarm to ensure the new shop is protected. Carol called in on Friday to meet Caroline, the store manager, and to wish them Good Luck for their grand opening tomorrow.
Little Blessings will be selling new and used clothes, toys & equipment for the under 10′s, plus maternity wear – including some fab jeans!
The shop was looking great… I’m sure it will do well!
ATS Path Fault
October 7, 2011 By Leave a Comment
We are inundated with calls about ATS path faults this morning. The storms last night have clearly done some damage to a mobile mast in the area. If your burglar alarm is affected present your fob twice to the keypad & then press reset. Our customers are welcome to give us a call and we will help you over the phone!
The Best CCTV Apps
September 30, 2011 By Leave a Comment
i-phone CCTV
New technology makes it easy to view your CCTV on your i-Phone or i-Pad. There are several free apps which allow you to take control of your cameras and look around your site. Search facilities with date and time stamps make reviewing past events easier than ever… no more trawling through hours of footage!
For sites with remote monitoring we recommend Smartdisc DVRs with the CamControl app. If you don’t have your CCTV monitored we recommend the Inspire DVRs with the vMEYE app.
Wired vs Wireless BurglarAlarms
September 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment
The post below got me thinking… when is wireless better?
There’s no doubt that wireless burglar alarm technology has come a long way. However I am sceptical when it is used as a “one size fits all” solution. A generic burglar alarm might be just fine but you may find a system tailored to your own property is a better fit.
When you are quoted for a wireless burglar alarm always make sure that it is because it is right for you, not because it’s easier for your chosen alarm company!
Photo Credit: Oskey
A wired burglar alarm system still tends to be more robust as the communication between detectors and the panel is via a fixed cable and not relying on battery power. If it’s possible we would always recommend wired.
However, living in the Peak District we have some clients with very thick stone walls! In this situation a wireless product such as Texecom Ricochet or Vista Agility can provide an effective solution.
We know that your home is beautiful and you want to keep it that way! A skilled engineer can hide cables in amazing ways, however sometimes wireless is more appropriate – a house finished with tiled floors for example.
The important thing is to find a trusted alarm company and ask their expert opinion. We don’t employ a salesman. Rob or Nick come to your property to quote- they are experienced engineers and recommend a solution that is right for you.
Comment on Tyco International deal to buy Visonic Ltd.
September 22, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Interesting news this week that Tyco International Ltd have agreed a deal to buy Visonic Ltd for around $100m. Visonic make a wide range of security equipment. Interesting then that Tyco have said the acquisition is due to Visonic’s expertise in wireless alarm technology. This clearly demonstrates where ADT are positioning themselves in the market (ADT come under the Tyco umbrella), and is confirmed by their latest round of TV ads.
ADT are targeting the mass domestic market with their QuickConnect tm basic wireless installations. The “monitoring as standard” in their adverts demonstrates where the margin is in this product. Even their most basic alarms require a 36month commitment. That’s a minimum of £854.64 for the contract term, and it should be noted that ADT retain ownership of the equipment- the customer does not own the alarm at the end of the 3 years.
The message… paying monthly clearly has advantages- just make sure that the contract terms are acceptable.
Happy Customers….
September 20, 2011 By Leave a Comment
Photo Credit: seanbjack
We don’t ask for testimonials… our customers say nice things unprompted! Here are a couple of comments received this summer….
“Many thanks for your time and your great service. All the staff have been really brill.”
“Very many thanks for looking after us so well- which is nothing less than we have come to expect from ESI”
Interested in Joining ESI?
September 16, 2011 By Leave a Comment
We’re busy…
… but we’re also fussy… only the best will do!
We are looking for an experienced SECURITY ENGINEER to join our team.
We welcome applications from experienced security industry professionals who take pride in their work.
Experience in Intruder Alarm installation is essential. If you have experience with Galaxy panels.. even better!
Knowledge of CCTV, Access Control and Fire Alarms is welcomed.
We are a small, friendly company. We work as a team and everyone is important. We take great pride in providing quality installations and our customers trust us and come back year after year.
Our engineers are the face of our company – they wear a uniform and drive smart vans. They take care to do a good job and they understand the need for client confidentiality.
If you would like to find out more please call Carol on 0800 082 5500
Everyone at ESI is vetted to BS7858 and is CRB checked.
A full clean driving licence is essential!