With today’s technology there are various ways to create the perfect security communication hub for your home or business. Whether you wish to keep to traditions, (why fix it if it isn’t broken) or you wish to mush forward with the latest technology available, it is important that you operate the system that is best for you and your business. Below is a list of various ways to connect your security system to a central monitoring station and the pros and cons associated with each method.
The Traditional (Seemingly Old Fashioned) Telephone Line Hook Up.
The good thing about the telephone line hook up is that it has been around for years. Most are familiar with its inner workings and finding a technician or service provider with the proper knowledge should be simple. Traditional phone lines are considered the most reliable of the services because most alarm systems connected by a traditional phone line remain operational during power outages. Telephone operated communication hubs cost less per month to maintain, operate and repair and requires less expensive equipment.
In the alternative, the telephone hook up has been around for years making it the most vulnerable system to attacks. The fact that there are many individuals familiar with its inner workings increases the possibility of an attack. It is as simple as cutting the telephone line causing the connection to be lost, generally without warning. If the lines are alternatively damaged, a bad connection causes static on the line, which interferes with proper monitoring of your system. Most traditional phone lines utilize copper, which is more susceptible to both natural and deliberate outages. Lastly, the dial up connection is generally than other services.
Internet Connections
The next connection type is the Internet connection. Internet connections are extremely convenient. There is ample software available for even the most novice user, which accesses cameras, entry systems, lighting, thermostats and
a number of other security system perks in the home from any web browser. Internet connections take less time to deliver messages to the central station allowing more information in shorter periods of time. With telephone landlines becoming obsolete, Internet connections eliminate the need for an additional bill.
The downside to using an Internet connection for security system communications is that the Internet requires power and Internet connectivity at the home to operate. If the power or Internet service goes out, so does the alarm system. Anyone looking to upgrade from a landline to an Internet connection will require a full overhaul of the old inexpensive system. The needed equipment is more expensive. Although not as simple to destroy as a landline connection, Internet connections are also disrupted if the wiring is damaged or cut.
Cellular Communications
Lastly is the cellular signals, which use wireless digital transmission, like a cell phone, to transmit alarm signals to the monitoring station. Cellular systems can carry more data at greater speeds. Since the connection is wireless, cellular systems are generally tamper-proof, so deliberate outages are rare making this option the highest security connection. The cellular system is probably the easiest to install.
Adversely, monthly monitoring costs are higher because of the cellular service, but are normally less than what a landline would cost. The initial equipment costs tend to be more expensive. Areas without sufficient cell phone towers might experience more difficulty connecting.
If you have any questions about residential or commercial alarm systems, don’t hesitate to call Delco Alarm at 610-459-0800. Delco Alarm is based out of Aston, PA and provides service to the tri-state area including West Chester, Aston, Media, Chadds Ford, Chester, Kennett Square, Newtown Square, Glen Mills, Malvern, Exton, Downingtown, Philadelphia, Wilmington, DE and New Jersey.