Best Types of Motion Sensors

Best ​​ Types of Motion Sensors 

Motion sensors have become indispensable to contemporary security systems, revolutionizing how we protect our homes and businesses.

These unassuming devices are designed to detect movement within their range, instantly triggering a response when any suspicious activity is detected.

Here are the types of motion sensors, their unique capabilities, and their pivotal role in creating safer environments for residential and commercial settings.

1. Passive Infrared (PIR)

Who Should Use It: 

·        Homeowners

·        Small Businesses

·        Startups

·        Schools

How Does It Work:  PIR motion sensors operate based on detecting infrared radiation changes within their view. 

To achieve this, they employ a pair of pyroelectric sensors that generate an electrical charge when exposed to heat. 

As the object moves along the sensor’s range, it changes the heat patterns detected by the pyroelectric sensors. 

This temperature change is then converted into an electrical signal, which activates a device like a burglar alarm or triggers it. 

PIR sensors effectively distinguish between static heat sources, like walls or furniture, and moving objects.

Pros: 

·        Reliable Intruder Detection

·        Low Power Consumption

·        Rapid Response Time

Cons: 

·        Limited Detection Range

2. Active Motion Sensors

Who Should Use It:

·        Commercial Enterprises

·        Industrial Facilities

·        Military Installations

·        Research Institutions

·        Advanced Surveillance Needs

How Does It Work: Active motion sensors operate by emitting a signal, such as microwaves or lasers, and then detecting the reflected signal. 

Whenever an object moves along the sensor’s range, it changes the reflection pattern, triggering an alert or specific action. 

These sensors effectively detect motion across large areas and in challenging environments.

Pros: 

·        Long Detection Range

·        Suitable for Harsh Conditions

·        High Accuracy

Cons: 

·        Higher Cost

3. Microwave (MW)

Who Should Use It:

·        Commercial Facilities

·        Industrial Environments

·        High-Security Areas

·        Research Laboratories

·        Large-Scale Surveillance Needs

How Does It Work: Microwave sensors are categorized as active sensors because they generate microwave pulses. These sensors emit a continuous stream of microwave radiation, typically within the 1 to 10 GHz range. 

One of the remarkable attributes of microwave sensors is their capability to detect motion through solid objects, including walls and doors.

These microwave pulses bounce off objects within their coverage field before returning to the sensor. 

Pros: 

·        Extended Detection Range

·        Impervious to Weather

·        High Sensitivity

Cons: 

·        Relatively Higher Cost

4. Ultrasonic Sensors

Who Should Use It:

·        Commercial Buildings

·        Industrial Facilities

·        Parking Structures

·        Retail Outlets

·        Accessibility Solutions

How Does It Work: Ultrasonic motion sensors belong to the active motion sensor category. They function by emitting high-frequency sound waves beyond the range of human hearing. 

These sound waves are projected into their detection area and bounce off objects within that range before returning to the sensor.

Ultrasonic sensors excel in recognizing movement because they emit sound waves at various angles, providing them with the capability to detect motion in three dimensions.

Pros: 

·        Three-Dimensional Sensing

·        Versatile Applications

·        Suitable for Low-Light Conditions

Cons: 

·        Limited Detection Range

5. Infrared (IR) Break Beam Sensors

Who Should Use It:

·        Residential Homeowners

·        Businesses with Perimeter Security Needs

·        Access Control Systems

·        Parking Lot Management

·        Outdoor Asset Protection

How Does It Work:

Infrared (IR) break beam sensors are active motion sensors with two primary components: a transmitter and a receiver. 

These components work in tandem to create an invisible infrared beam. When an object or intruder disrupts this beam, it triggers a specific action or alert.

The operation is akin to breaking a light beam; when something crosses the path between the transmitter and receiver, the beam is momentarily interrupted, indicating the presence of motion or an intrusion.

Pros: 

·        Unaffected by Environmental Conditions

·        Minimal False Alarms

·        Easy Installation

Cons: 

·        Limited Detection Range

6. Proximity Sensors

Who Should Use It:

·        Manufacturing Facilities

·        Industrial Automation

·        Automotive Industry

·        Electronics Manufacturing

·        Security Systems

How Does It Work: Proximity sensors can be inductive, capacitive, and photoelectric sensors. What all proximity sensors share is their ability to detect motion by emitting signals that interact with objects in their proximity.

Depending on the sensor type, these signals are either reflected to the sensor or absorbed. 

Proximity sensors are highly reliable because they remain unaffected by environmental factors like temperature or humidity.

Pros: 

·        Unaffected by Environmental Factors

·        Versatile in Detection

·        Wide Range of Applications

Cons: 

·        Calibration May Be Required

Selecting the Right Motion Sensor

A suitable motion sensor is crucial for an adequate security or monitoring system. 

Consider factors such as the intended purpose, detection range, environmental conditions, tolerance for false alarms, integration compatibility, maintenance, and budget.

It is better to consult a professional to match the sensor’s capabilities to your needs and ensure optimal performance and reliability. Contact us for a free consultation and quotation. 

Ready to upgrade your security with the latest motion sensors? Contact us today to schedule a professional installation and get a free quotation. 

References:

1.      https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/computer-science/passive-infrared-sensor

2.      https://www.benzinga.com/pressreleases/23/09/34518517/the-vibration-motion-sensor

3.      Mr. Anish Devasia – Full support on article 

Access Control for Sensitive Areas

High-Security Access Control for Sensitive Areas 

Access control is simply the system that restricts entrace to a propery, building, or sensitive area to only those persons who are authorized to enter these areas. In physical security, access control is focused on who, when, and where.

In today’s highly interconnected and digitally driven world, securing sensitive areas within your business or commercial property is crucial. Its implementation helps serve as one’s first line of defense against unauthorized use and access to restricted resources. Today, one excellent method for access security management is by using access control systems. They serve the purpose of restricting and monitoring access to physical and digital company resources. In this blog post, we will discuss best practices for securing business sensitive resources with access control systems. We will also briefly discuss their benefits and available access control system types today. By adhering to these best practices, we believe that organizations can enhance their security protocols and keep assets protected.

We offer a comprehensive range of high-security access control solutions designed to protect sensitive areas and assets. Our cutting-edge systems, including alarm lock trilogy locks, biometric systems, key card systems, keypad systems, key fob systems, smart systems, touchless card reader systems, and Wi-Fi and smart lock systems, ensure efficient building access control across various industries.

With our expertise and advanced access control technologies, you can enhance security and gain peace of mind knowing that unauthorized access to your sensitive areas is effectively prevented.

Understanding Access Control Systems

Access control security systems play a crucial role in regulating entry, monitoring individuals, and enhancing security within a facility. These systems combine hardware and software components to ensure the safety of premises and assets. By regulating access, tracking the movement of personnel, and restricting unauthorized entry, access control systems streamline operations and provide peace of mind.

At The Flying SSA Integrate, we offer a diverse range of access control solutions tailored to meet the unique requirements of various industries. Our systems are designed to provide seamless integration with existing infrastructure and enhance overall security.

Whether it’s controlling entry with biometric systems, implementing card access systems, or utilizing smart systems and touchless card reader systems, our comprehensive solutions empower businesses to efficiently manage their access control infrastructure.

By investing in access control security systems, organizations can create a safe and secure environment while streamlining operations and protecting valuable assets.

Comparing Access Control Systems

When it comes to choosing the right access control solution, there are several factors to consider. Scalability, functionality, and integration capabilities play crucial roles in ensuring that the selected system meets your specific needs. At The Flying Locksmiths, we offer a variety of access control systems that cater to different requirements, providing seamless integration with your existing infrastructure and the ability to scale for future growth.

Options for Access Control Systems

• Alarm Lock Trilogy Locks
• Biometric Access Control Systems
• Card-based Access Control Systems
• Keypad and PIN Access Control Systems
• Key fob systems
• Smart card systems
• Touchless card reader systems
• Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Access Control Systems
• Wi-Fi and smart lock systems

Our access control solutions offer advanced security features and convenience, making them suitable for various applications. Whether you require a simple keypad system for a small office or a comprehensive biometric system for a high-security facility, we have the right solution for you.

The Flying SSA Integrate Preferred Access Control Systems

We understand the importance of reliable and efficient access control systems. That’s why we have carefully selected a range of preferred solutions that offer advanced features, robust security, and seamless integration.

Our preferred access control systems include OpenPath, Idemia, Assa Abloy, KISI, Malibu, SimpleAccess, Allegion and VizPin. Each of these systems is designed to provide businesses with the utmost convenience and security, ensuring the safety and efficiency of their access control infrastructure.

OpenPath is a cutting-edge system that combines cloud-based access control technology with mobile credentials, enabling users to conveniently manage and monitor access from anywhere. PDK Touch offers a user-friendly interface and powerful features, making it an ideal choice for businesses of all sizes. KISI provides a comprehensive access control solution that integrates with various entry methods, including mobile devices and key cards.

Malibu, SimpleAccess, and VizPin are also preferred access control systems that excel in their respective areas. Malibu offers flexible and scalable options for managing access, from single doors to multi-site deployments. SimpleAccess provides a user-friendly web-based platform for seamless access control management. VizPin revolutionizes access control with its cloud-based Bluetooth technology, eliminating the need for physical keys or key cards.

Best Practices for Securing Sensitive Areas with Access Control Systems

Securing sensitive areas requires a comprehensive approach that combines various security measures, policies, and practices. Here are some best practices for securing sensitive areas effectively:

1. Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): While it is true that access control systems are excellent standalone tools, when they are combined with other authentication methods, they produce even better results. So, an excellent access control best practice is to enable two-factor or multi-factor authentication for all sensitive areas. Like we said earlier, this typically includes a combination of authentication systems such as passwords, biometrics, smart cards, or one-time passcodes to successfully authenticate.
2. Access Control Policies: Another best practice for securing sensitive areas in your organization is to establish access control policies that define who can access sensitive areas, and under what circumstances. These policies should include procedures for granting, revoking, and managing access privileges. Regular reviews and updates to these policies are also strongly recommended to ensure that they align with evolving security requirements.
3. Integration with other Security Systems: Another access control best practice would be to integrate one’s access control system with other security systems to reinforce security. This could include using robust locks, security cameras, alarms, fencing, guards, and gates to deter unauthorized entry.
4. Regular Maintenance and Software Updates: Like all other electronic security equipment, access control systems also need regular maintenance checks and software updates. This should also include checks on access permissions, and software and firmware updates to patch vulnerabilities and security flaws.

In conclusion, securing sensitive areas within an organization by implementing access control best practices is a necessity in today’s world. By adhering to these best practices, businesses can ensure that their most vulnerable assets are well-protected.

At SSA Integrate, we are committed to providing state-of-the-art solutions and expert guidance to help your business related to Access Control, Video Surveillance & Intrusion Detection System.

Protect your Surveillance System with a VPN

Protect your Surveillance System with a VPN 

Security cameras have become an essential tool in today’s world, where security is a growing concern for businesses and individuals alike. With the help of these cameras, you can monitor your property, deter crime, and protect your loved ones. However, while security cameras are a great investment, they also come with some security risks that can put your privacy and security in danger.

One of the most significant risks of using security cameras is that they can be easily hacked, leaving you vulnerable to cybercriminals who may want to access your data or spy on your activities. This is where VPNs come in. You can protect your surveillance system with a simple VPN download process.

In this article, we will explore the importance of using a VPN to protect your surveillance system and keep your data secure.

What are VPNs, and how do they work?

A Virtual Private Network (VPN) is a service that allows you to connect to the internet securely and privately. When you use a VPN, your data is encrypted, and your IP address is masked, making it difficult for anyone to track your online activities. VPNs are commonly used to protect sensitive information, such as online banking transactions or private messages, from prying eyes. However, there are other uses for VPNs such as blocking websites from tracking you, accessing restricted content and more.

VPN services work by creating a secure connection between your device and the VPN server. Your device sends data through this connection, which is then encrypted and sent to the VPN server. The VPN server then decrypts the data and sends it to its intended destination. This process protects your data from interception or hacking by cybercriminals.

The importance of using a VPN to protect your security cameras

While security cameras are essential for monitoring your property, they are also vulnerable to cyber-attacks. If your security cameras are connected to the internet, they can be accessed remotely by hackers who may want to spy on your activities or gain access to your personal data. To protect your security cameras from these threats, it is crucial to use a VPN.

Using a VPN for your security cameras can provide several benefits, including:

1. Protecting your privacy: When you use a VPN, your data is encrypted, and your IP address is masked. This means that hackers cannot track your online activities or access your personal information, providing an added layer of security for your security cameras.
2. Securing your footage: By using a VPN, you can ensure that your security footage is kept private and secure. This is especially important for businesses that may have sensitive information captured on their security cameras.
3. Preventing unauthorized access: VPNs can also prevent unauthorized access to your security cameras. By creating a secure connection between your device and the VPN server, you can ensure that only authorized users can access your security footage.
4. Protecting against cyber-attacks: VPNs can protect your security cameras from cyber-attacks such as hacking or malware. This is because the VPN encrypts your data and prevents it from being intercepted by cybercriminals.
5. Avoiding geo-restrictions: In some cases, security  cameras may be restricted to certain regions or countries. By using a VPN, you can bypass these restrictions and access your security cameras from anywhere in the world.

How to choose the right VPN for your security cameras

Choosing the right VPN for your security cameras is essential to ensure maximum protection and privacy. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a VPN:

1. Encryption: Look for a VPN that uses strong encryption, such as AES 256-bit encryption. This ensures that your data is protected and cannot be easily decrypted by hackers.
2. Server locations: Choose a VPN that has servers located in different regions or countries. This allows you to bypass geo-restrictions and access your security cameras from anywhere in the world.
3. Compatibility: Make sure the VPN is compatible with your security cameras. Some security cameras may not be compatible with certain VPNs, so it is important to check before signing up.

Apartment Intercom Works

 Apartment Intercom Works

An apartment intercom system allows entry to a visitor to a building. A visitor can come up to the entry system at the main building entrance, select an entry and call a tenant. This sends a buzzer signal to the resident inside the apartment. The resident can pick up the call using an audio phone call, or a video call using a video intercom mobile app. They can communicate with the visitor, and then release and buzz the door remotely.

The latest lobby intercoms include a large touchscreen panel, intercom, camera, and wireless connections to the tenant’s phones.  This multi-tenant intercom system connects from the lobby intercom station to an app on each person’s smartphone.

This article reviews the apartment Intercon’s state-of-the-art components making this a valuable and easy-to-install system for apartment houses and multi-tenant organizations.

The new systems have large LCD screens that allow you to see a list of the residents in the building. The intercom panel also includes a camera so the tenant can see and hear the visitor at the door. These video intercom systems are used in offices, hospitals, and other large multi-tenant organizations.

How the TFT LCD Display Works

The display has a high enough resolution (800 x 1280) to make the information clear and readable. The TFT LCD (Thin-Film-Transistor Liquid Crystal Display) consists of three layers: a sandwich-like structure with liquid crystal material filled between two glass plates.

The two polarizer filters, color filters (RGB, red/green/blue), and two alignment layers control the light allowed to pass and which colors are created.

LCD Intercom

The pixels are addressed in rows and columns, reducing the connection count from millions to thousands. The column and row wires attach to each pixel (or transistor switch). The transistor’s one-way current characteristic prevents the charge applied to each pixel from being drained between refreshes to a display’s image. Each pixel is a small capacitor with a layer of insulating liquid crystal sandwiched between transparent conductive ITO (Indium tin oxide) layers. The capacitor allows each sub-pixel to retain its charge between each cycle.

The display is bright enough to be seen in a well-lit environment. For example, many panels provide 400 Nits of brightness. The term “nit” is a unit of measurement defining luminance rather than an abbreviation. One Nit equals one candela per square meter. Imagine a candle inside a box that is one meter by one meter square. The light from the candle equals one candela, and the light hitting the sides of the cube is equivalent to one Nit.

How the Touchscreen Works

The touchscreen is a combination of an input device with a display screen. It provides a signal that indicates the position where a person touches the display screen. There are various types of touchscreens. Some of the older touchscreens use infrared beams around the edge, while others use surface acoustic waves or near-field imaging. Many current touchscreens use resistive or capacitive effect touchscreen.

Capacitive touch screens generally have a brighter, clearer appearance and are much more sensitive than resistive touch screens. The capacitive touchscreen is the most popular technology used on our smartphones, laptops, and tablet screens.

Touchpanel

Capacitive screens have multiple layers of glass and plastic coated with a conductor material like indium tin oxide or copper. This conductive material responds when contacted by another electrical conductor, like your bare finger. When you touch your screen, an electric circuit is completed at the point where your finger makes contact, changing the electrical charge at this location. Your device registers this information as a “touch event.”

Resistive touchscreens detect position by pressure applied to its surface. The pressure on the surface causes the two layers to touch, which relates to the position on the surface.

Once a touch event has been detected, the screen’s receptors notify the operating system where the screen has been touched, allowing the application to respond.

Intercom

The apartment intercom includes a built-in intercom with a speaker and microphone. The speaker requires enough sound level so it can be heard in noisy environments, while the microphone needs to be sensitive enough to hear the person near the intercom. The closeness of the microphone to the speaker can cause problems. This is solved by using echo suppression.

Intercom System Diagram

Echo suppression improves voice quality by preventing speaker sound from circulating from the speaker, creating feedback. Echo suppressors and echo cancellers have similar goals—preventing a speaking individual from hearing an echo of their own voice.

Camera

The camera allows the person answering the door to see the visitor. The camera usually has a reasonable resolution (usually 2-MegaPixels) and can view a wide angle. There is an IR illuminator so the camera can see when there isn’t any ambient lighting. The camera is also able to see a person in bright sunlight. Many of these cameras include a wide dynamic range that provides a clear image of the person, even with a bright background. The camera connects through the computer unit, and the video is sent to the tenant’s smartphone.

Processing Unit

The computer system includes the Central Processing Unit (CPU) that can run an Android, Linux, or Unix operating system. The computer and software control the intercom panel’s functions, including the display, IO (the relay), audio, WiFi, and Ethernet interface.

Cloud-Based Management

Apartment intercoms use cloud-based servers that maintain the record of all the users.

IP Apartment Intercom Diagram

The management software provides an easy method for updating and editing the user list. The message passes through the local intercom server and the network switch and router to the cloud server. The message is sent from the cloud server to the smartphone (or standard phone). Once the connection is established, the tenant can talk to the person at the door. They can then remotely unlock the door. The IP intercom system provides increased security because it allows the tenant, with a smartphone, to see the person at the door.

Apartment intercom systems actually come in several forms, and each has their own set of unique capabilities to meet the needs of different multifamily buildings.

Wired Apartment Intercoms

Wired intercoms require running a cable from the main entry panel to each apartment unit receiver. There were very popular for smaller condo and apartment buildings. They could have audio or video capabilities.

·        Much higher upfront cost of install due to all the wiring needed

·        No recurring cost once installed, which is beneficial

·        May come with video or audio

·        You have to be home, and constantly walk over the receiving unit in order to receive the intercom

·        No ability to give our remote access when you are not home

·        Cannot generate and give delivery PINs

·        Very difficult and technically complicated to program. Often requires paying a security company to makes change every time someone moves in

Wireless Intercom Systems

Wireless intercom systems have been the real game changer in the world of modern access.

Instead of requiring a wall mount station inside the apartment unit and outside the front door, wireless intercom systems offer the ability for tenants to receive a visitor call to their mobile phone or other device that is compatible with the system’s software. Tenants are no longer tied to a wired intercom station inside their apartment – they are able to receive visitor calls and grant access from anywhere. There are two different ways in which to do this: telephone entry system and video intercom systems.

Telephone Entry System

Telephone entry systems like Doorking and Linear are very popular over the last decade. Most of you might be familiar with these door entry callboxes. You can program a list of phone numbers in the callbox and connect it to a traditional phone line or cellular VOIP system (those cost extra per month).

·        Reliable and popular technology over the last 20 years

·        Audio calls can be received to smart phone and regular phones

·        Ability to release the door lock pressing a number – often 9

·        Major known security issues – e.g. you can buy a key on amazon to open the box and release doors

·        Lack of video allows package thieves to now pretend to be delivery drivers and get buzzed in

·        Very difficult to program by condo management and property management – requires a ton of technical training

Video Intercom Systems for Apartments

Video intercoms make video calls between visitors and residents. Smart intercom systems support option for telephone calls using VOIP, to support older or non tech savvy residents. Most buildings are upgrading to modern video intercom systems. Video intercoms used to be very expensive.

Benefits of Apartment Intercom Systems

Apartment intercoms are convenient for multifamily tenants and their guests, but they go far beyond just convenience. A building intercom system offers a layer of security to access management for the best protection of your biggest investment.

·        Secure delivery management is becoming more than just a building amenity. With the increasing rate of e-commerce, and the ability to have more and more essentials and necessities delivered right to your door, securing packages and deliveries is a must. With a building intercom system, couriers can easily be granted building access from either a call to the front desk staff or directly to the tenant.

·        Securely granting access to guests and visitors is not only convenient to the tenant, but also the other occupants in the building. Tenants have peace of mind knowing any other occupant in the building has been authorized.

·        Convenience for tenants enhances a building’s reputation and boost tenant retention and acquisition.

·        Reducing operational overhead is made easy with building intercom systems because it seamlessly supports front desk staff and enables frictionless access to other operational or maintenance staff.

·        Business continuity is another unassuming benefit of building intercom. But, should an apartment need to be seen or toured in order to fill a vacancy, self-guided, contactless apartment tours can be facilitated with remote unlock features. 

Summary of Apartment Intercom

The apartment intercom is a device that allows visitors to contact people inside a multi-tenant building. It consists of a TFT LCD with a touch panel, audio intercom section, IP camera, and processing unit. The new wireless intercom allows you to contact the resident’s smartphone or standard phone to request entry into the building. The lobby intercom display provides a list of all the tenants in the building.