Phoenix Business Security Archives

The Importance of Commercial Access Control

Posted on March 29, 2017May 7, 2024 by Jace Fry

For centuries, breaking into standard key and lock entries has been a tried-and-true intruder practice. While they might seem convenient initially, standard door locks need some improvement in the security department. Your business must invest in advanced security options to protect your entry points from unauthorized access. Let’s take a look at how commercial door access control systems can revolutionize how you approach security.

What Are Commercial Access Control Systems?

Access control systems are secure door entries that control who can exit and enter commercial buildings. These systems use electronic devices like PIN codes, keycards and biometric scanners to allow registered users into the building. Without the proper credentials, you can’t use the door. Access control systems give businesses improved security and precise control of who enters and when.

While they act like door locks, control access systems come with extra features for better security. Audit trails, integration with other security systems and time-based access for all controlled door use make your space extremely secure. You can see who uses a door and when while creating a space that keeps out unwanted entries.

What Makes Commercial Door Access Control Systems Effective?

An effective access control system needs several critical features. These features work together to create a strong, secure entry point that fits your needs. Ensure it’s secure without sacrificing efficiency — you don’t want an entry point that slows down productivity significantly. Here are some features to look for in your commercial access control system:

Authentication methods: Your system should offer several reliable authentication methods. PIN codes, facial scans, keycards and fingerprint scans are all trusted authentication methods — you should use one or several of these for your entries. Having these options helps you fit security measures to your needs without sacrificing safety.
Granular access control: Granular access control lets administrators set specific permissions for groups and people. You can limit or allow access based on departments, roles and other criteria. These controls let you give out access based on responsibilities, minimizing door access and increasing security.
Integration capabilities: You also want your system to integrate with other security systems seamlessly. Having easy integration with intrusion detection, cameras and alarm systems creates comprehensive security coverage. You’ll enjoy protection from all angles without sacrificing convenience.
Audit trails: Audit trail capabilities let you log all accesses and access attempts. You’ll get to see who used the door and when, creating a reliable paper trail for investigating incidents and staying regulation-compliant. Audit trails are especially important after unauthorized access attempts, letting you see who tried to use the entry so you can take appropriate action.
Scalability: Scalability is another feature to consider. You want your control system to adapt to your organization’s changing needs. It should grow with your user numbers, adding access points and integrating with new security systems. A good system should be able to handle expected changes.
Remote management: You should also consider systems with remote management features. Remote management lets you manage your system from anywhere, giving you more convenient access. You can revoke credentials, grant temporary access and review access logs away from your building, maintaining security and efficiency no matter where you are.

The Benefits of Access Control for Businesses

Access control systems deliver a well-rounded security management system. Traditional locks and keys are too easy to break through and copy — these systems use advanced tech to boost your security and efficiency. Here are some of the benefits a high-quality access control system can offer your business:

Improve security: Combining multiple advanced authentication methods reduces the risk of unauthorized access. Keycards, PIN codes and other controls protect your business from theft, vandalism and security breaches. Audit trails let you track who tries to get in, and real-time monitoring gives you complete access to door entries. You’ll see faster response times to security incidents and fewer issues.
Protect assets: Access control systems prevent unauthorized access, protecting your assets. You can ensure that only authorized users have access, reducing the risk of damage or theft of valuable assets. With integrated security like video, you can more effectively track down anyone associated with asset damage or theft.
Streamline visitors: Access control can also help you manage visitors more easily. These systems allow temporary pass creation for visitors or contractors, ensuring they have limited access to your spaces. You’ll make the visitor process more convenient and traceable while keeping unwanted users out.
Comprehensive integration: Access control systems offer comprehensive integration with your other security solutions. You’ll combine the use of video, door entry and alarms more efficiently with the right system. For example, access control systems can trigger alarms and alerts during unauthorized access attempts, while surveillance records the attempts for your records.

How to Choose the Right Access Control System

Picking the right system means pinpointing your most significant needs. A good access control system will work with your operation, building up your weaknesses and improving efficiency. With the right company, you can get a tailored solution that hits everything you want. Keep these points in mind when looking for an access control system solution. These factors will help your security company tailor the system to you:

Needs: What are your security requirements? Think about access points, location size and security levels needed for each area.
Authentication: Try to decide on the right authentication methods for your needs. Convenience, budget and security level will all affect what you get. You can consult your security provider about the best options for your business.
Integration: Look for systems with good integration capabilities. Getting access control systems, cameras and other devices to work together will give you a seamless security experience.
Scalability: Find a system that will scale with your business growth. Make sure it can accommodate new access points, users and security systems.
Remote management: Decide if you want remote management. Being able to monitor and manage your system from anywhere is extremely convenient. You might want a system that gives you faster response times and better flexibility.
Compliance: Ensure your system meets your industry’s regulations for security and data protection. Staying compliant protects your business and avoids fines or liabilities.

Titan Alarm: Your Trusted Partner in Comprehensive Commercial Security

Elevate your business security with custom security solutions from Titan Alarm. As a trusted Arizona security company since 2010, we have the experience and tools to provide you with the comprehensive security your business needs. Our fully automated systems offer remote capabilities and advanced tech for a stronger, faster security response. Enjoy fully integrated access control, video surveillance, intrusion protection and video verification when you work with our team.

Get industry-leading security installation from certified technicians with Titan Alarm. Contact us online to schedule a consultation today!

Updated 5/7/2024

The Importance of Video Surveillance Systems for Business

Posted on May 28, 2015July 15, 2024 by Mike Proudfit

updated 7/15/2024

Video Surveillance for Commercial Properties

In Arizona, over 65,000 crimes have occurred in 2024. Your business needs a robust crime deterrence strategy and concrete video evidence when a violation occurs on your property.

Installing high-definition surveillance cameras is an excellent start if you’re looking to invest in robust security measures for your Arizona business.

The Importance of Security Camera Systems for Businesses

It is impossible to overstate the value of high-resolution security systems for businesses. Here’s how your establishment can benefit from an effective surveillance solution.

Enhanced Security and Safety

The mere presence of a functional security camera system can deter criminal activity. While video surveillance won’t stop crimes 100% of the time, trespassers who spot cameras may be less likely to attempt theft, fraud or vandalism.

You can use the footage as tangible evidence for investigations if criminal activity occurs in or around your business. A video surveillance system can increase security and peace of mind on your commercial property. Your employees and patrons may also feel safer with effective on-site security cameras.

Cost-Effectiveness

Business security cameras can offer long-term savings in multiple ways.

Reduced need for physical security personnel: Having high-definition surveillance cameras eliminates the need to hire security officers, saving you money in the long haul. You can access real-time, remote monitoring capabilities from a mobile phone, tablet or computer.
Potential crime deterrence: Commercial security systems often prevent criminal activity and help business owners recover stolen items. As such, it can minimize the expenses associated with property damage and court proceedings.
Lower insurance premiums: If criminal activity occurs on your property, you will have footage to prove what happened. Many insurance companies offer liability insurance discounts to businesses that install security cameras, making this solution a worthwhile investment.

How Effective Is Video Surveillance?

The growing popularity of video surveillance in commercial settings is a testament to its efficacy. A report revealed that 54% of small and medium business retailers installed or updated security cameras in 2023.

Sixty-eight percent of SMB retailers experienced above-industry-standard shrink rates, primarily due to factors like:

Fraudulent returns
Organized retail crime
Shoplifting

Many of these businesses adopted security cameras to curb shrink, improve surveillance and decrease theft.

Essential Features of Effective Video Surveillance Solutions

Prioritizing a few vital features can make all the difference when browsing security camera systems for your business.

Remote Monitoring

As a business owner or manager, accessing your surveillance system anywhere and anytime is critical. Driving to your commercial location whenever you need to review or analyze footage can quickly become inconvenient. That’s why remote access and monitoring capabilities are must-have features for your security system.

You can examine real-time footage from anywhere, whether you’re five minutes down the road or 100 miles from your central business location. Your surveillance solution should also integrate with any devices you regularly use, like your smartphone, laptop or desktop computer.

Motion Detection

With motion detection, you can set up your camera to record only when it detects movement in its field of view. You’ll also receive automatic alerts and notifications that help you spot intruders and detect criminal activity. As a bonus, motion-triggered recording can preserve storage space by only capturing relevant footage.

Intrusion Detection

Intrusion detection enables you to monitor areas that shouldn’t display any movement. It’s ideal for overseeing customs locations, hazardous sites and other areas of concern.

This virtual security guard can survey the area 24/7, identify unauthorized access and notify you of any changes that occur in that area. It can also integrate with other security systems your business might use. After the camera detects abnormal activity, you will receive an alert and can act accordingly.

Wireless Security Camera Systems

Wireless security cameras are closed-circuit television cameras that transmit audio and video signals to a wireless receiver via a radio band. They offer various benefits.

Portability: Wireless security cameras are simple to install and move, making them ideal when you frequently need to relocate them or don’t anticipate staying in the same business location long-term. This feature is particularly beneficial for events and other temporary applications.
Ease of installation: You can deploy these cameras quickly and seamlessly. They’re often easier and faster to install than their wired counterparts, which require more labor. You can place wireless cameras nearly anywhere in your business, including hard-to-reach spots.
Connectivity and reliability: Battery-powered wireless cameras can often withstand power outages that compromise wired cameras.

Installation Process for Commercial Video Surveillance

Once you’ve narrowed down critical features and chosen the appropriate surveillance system for your business, it’s time to install your cameras.

Planning and Assessing Needs

Identifying your business’ security needs should involve the following steps.

Conduct a security audit: First, create a security checklist to assess your current security system and vulnerable areas. What areas of your business would benefit most from more robust security measures? What is their current security coverage like? What features are nonnegotiable? Consider these points when performing your security audit.
Determine camera placement: Next, choose the ideal location. Consider your security goals and requirements for each area, such as monitoring deliveries to your business. Pick unobstructed spots with clear sightlines. Ensure there is plenty of space for the camera and easy power access. Additionally, the location should be out of plain sight and reach — that way, the camera isn’t easy to disable.

Professional Installation vs. DIY

You have another decision to make when investing in commercial security cameras — hiring a professional or opting for DIY installation. Compromising the equipment’s quality might make your business less secure. That’s why professional services are a safer bet.

While the DIY installation approach might save you money in the short term, it carries the risk of errors and can void your warranty. Professional installations are ideal for anyone seeking a reliable, hassle-free security solution.

High-quality equipment: Professional installers have access to durable, high-resolution cameras and equipment with more value-added features. Commercial-grade equipment can withstand various environmental factors, providing long-lasting performance.
Superior installation: Professional installers can strategically place cameras for maximum coverage, ensuring no blind spots are present. They can identify the best camera positions based on factors that DIY installers might overlook, such as height, angle and lighting.
Integration with existing systems: An experienced installer can easily integrate new cameras into your existing surveillance system, ensuring a cohesive security infrastructure. Installation by an inexperienced DIYer can result in compatibility issues or gaps in security coverage.

Maintenance and Upgrades

When you partner with an experienced security system installer, they’ll usually take care of inspections, maintenance, repairs and upgrades, removing the burden from your shoulders. This ongoing support addresses issues quickly before they spiral out of hand. Your security solutions provider can help you determine the ideal hardware and software upgrades for your system, ensuring years of smooth and reliable performance for your business.

Enhance Your Business’ Security System With Titan Alarm & Fire

With unpredictable crime rates in Arizona and nationwide, understanding the importance of video surveillance for commercial properties is more critical than ever. Partnering with a reliable surveillance systems provider can help you stay on top of your security goals and demands.

At Titan Alarm & Fire, we provide wireless commercial video surveillance and other security solutions for businesses throughout Arizona, including Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler and Tucson. We’re also one of the state’s largest installers of IP commercial surveillance systems.

Let us help you elevate your business’ security strategy with HD-quality video surveillance systems. Contact us today to learn more about our customized solutions or schedule an appointment.

6 Facts about IP Cameras and Video Surveillance

Posted on May 28, 2015October 13, 2023 by Mike Proudfit

Internet protocol (IP) cameras represent the latest in digital video camera technology and are invaluable video surveillance tools for homes and businesses. Unlike outdated analog camera technology that relies on the use of closed-circuit television, IP cameras deliver and receive data via the internet and computer networks, which provides enhanced video surveillance capabilities. The following facts can help you make a more informed decision when purchasing IP cameras for your Phoenix-area residence or business.

1. IP Cameras Resolution Offers More Detail

Analog cameras are limited to a resolution of 720×480, regardless of the cost or power of the camera, IP cameras have no limitation on resolution, which many models exceeding the 1080P HD-quality resolution we experience on our HDTVs at home. This results in more usable images, with the ability to electronically enhance the image after the event has occurred and receive greater detail than traditional video.

Resolution for IP cameras is normally referred to as 720p or 1080p, which are standard resolutions. An important difference between analog and IP cameras is the manner in which resolution is measured. IP cameras use new technology that measures resolution in pixels rather than in horizontal lines like old analog cameras did. Resolution refers to the number of pixels, which are the tiny areas of illumination on a display screen that form the image. High-resolution cameras feature a greater number of pixels than low-resolution cameras, which means they have enhanced capabilities to capture and display more information, and with greater detail and clarity.

While 720p and 1080p are both regarded as standard IP camera resolution, there are some important distinctions between the two. For instance, a 1080p image actually provides twice the amount of detail as a 720p image. However, the 1080p also consumes twice as much bandwidth, which can result in slower streaming and cause storage capacity to fill up twice as fast. Additionally, 1080p IP cameras are typically more expensive than 720p models.

2. 1080p Is Also Known as Full HD Resolution

It can produce images that are 1920 x 1080 pixels, and the height of the image is normally how the resolution is determined. For example, 720p images are measured at 1280 x 720 pixels. This means full IP camera resolution provides more than twice the number of pixels than standard resolution. Consequently, 1080p cameras are often marketed as being the equivalent of two 720p cameras.

There are also a number of important differences between standard and full HD resolution cameras, as well as several significant similarities. For instance, the signal transmission distance of the 1080p camera is up to 1,640 feet, compared to 984 feet for 720p camera systems. Both systems make use of a single coax cable to transmit video, audio and control signals. They also provide roughly the same night vision capabilities, as well a similar number of nonstop recording hours.

3. IP Are The Best Security Cameras for Facial Recognition

It is crucial that a security camera provides images with the high degree of clarity that enables easy identification of an intruder and other important crime details. Otherwise, it offers little value from a security perspective. One of the major disadvantages of using analog cameras for video surveillance is that they often fail to provide enough detail to aid law enforcement or security personnel during the identification process.

If you want to use cameras for facial recognition, to monitor crimes or to view license plates, then IP is the way to go. To maximize the ID potential of your video surveillance system, consider bearing the additional cost of a full resolution HD 1080p camera. It just might make the difference when attempting to identify and apprehend a home intruder or determining the perpetrator of internal theft within your company. In the world of video surveillance, you can’t go wrong with IP if you want amazing detail in your videos.

4. Phoenix Video Surveillance Is Changing

The video surveillance world has changed. For more than 30 years, analog cameras were the main video surveillance systems. While analog cameras served a valuable purpose, they simply no longer provide the most effective security solution for residential and commercial property owners in the Phoenix area. Because analog video uses a fixed video signal through a coaxial signal, it can be tapped into or altered. IP cameras have encryption and security levels built in, providing increased security over your video images. While IP camera resolution is far superior to that of analog cameras, IP cameras also offer a number of other important advantages over analog technology.

For example, long-distance surveillance applications are much more difficult to execute with analog camera systems. While wireless analog technology is available, you may experience interference that can result in a significant reduction in signal quality when compared to IP wireless camera systems. Additionally, analog security camera systems typically do not provide the variety of advanced features that modern IP systems have to offer. Thus, the Phoenix video surveillance world has been continuously moving away from analog cameras and going toward IP cameras.

5. IP Cameras Are Versatile

If you are looking for security cameras that connect to networks, IP cameras offer a distinct advantage over analog models. With analog cameras in video surveillance, you were extremely limited because of reliance on power outlets and cable lengths. This made long-distance and remote connectivity problematic at best, and in many instances, virtually impossible. What’s more, this makes analog cameras incompatible with many of today’s wireless network operating environments.

With IP cameras, you can easily connect to your network to share data with your system. You can even install and deploy an IP-based surveillance camera system using your existing network architecture. Think of how much that can save you in terms of time, labor costs and maintenance. Using wireless IP camera systems that connect to networks without having to install miles of cabling also provides maximum camera placement flexibility. As a result, you may experience greater coverage of the areas that require monitoring on your property.

Also, analog signals are converted several times. The camera itself typically uses a digital image sensor, which converts the signal to analog to transmit it. Once the signal is received into a recorder, it is converted back to digital again in order to process, record, and distribute it. Each time the video is converted it loses quality. With IP cameras, the data is kept in digital format throughout, maintaining quality with minimal loss.

6. IP Cameras Offer Cost-Effectiveness

As the cost of IP cameras has reduced over the past few years, the total cost of ownership tends to be lower with IP than analog systems. They are faster and simpler to install, due to technologies like Power over Ethernet (PoE). They consume less power, resulting in a “greener” camera environment. The end result is a higher quality system that delivers better images, better security, and is far less expensive to implement in most applications.

Some believe IP cameras may not be as cost-effective as analog cameras. This is mainly because IP camera systems generally require a higher upfront expenditure that analog systems, primarily due to greater cost of the cutting-edge technology. This often causes prospective buyers to forgo the best security system for their needs in an effort to reduce expenses.

It is true that IP cameras require a larger upfront investment, but they have advanced features that aren’t available with old technology. Examples include radar and thermal imaging and state-of-the-art motion-tracking technology that offer enhanced intrusion detection capabilities. They also include event verification that can more quickly confirm the presence of an intruder and reduce the amount of time it takes for emergency personnel to respond. The cloud recording capabilities eliminate worries about running out of tape, which would in effect leave your property unprotected.

Another way to think of it is that, while IP cameras are more expensive than analog cameras, their enhanced ability to prevent a loss actually makes them the more cost-effective security cameras in the long run. You will also have greater peace of mind, something that does not come with a price tag. CLICK HERE for more information about Phoenix video surveillance systems.

Other Features of IP Cameras That Make Them Better Than Analog

Camera Intelligence:

Advanced technology in software and hardware allow cameras to do much more than simply transmit a still video image. The software built into many cameras, as well as available through 3rd party applications, allows the camera to process the video and inform the end user of events like motion detection, people counting, traffic mapping, digital fence lines, and much more. The camera can also self-diagnose if it is not operating properly, or is being tampered with and notify the end user or a central monitoring center.

Fully Integrated:

IP cameras easily integrate into an IP network environment, utilizing network hardware and servers that many clients are already utilizing. This utilizes the initial investment of infrastructure for the system. Many IP cameras also have full featured software and storage built-in, allowing the camera to run independent of any other software. Analog cameras always require a DVR or server with additional hardware and increased bandwidth to perform these tasks.

Easily Scalable:

Analog cameras require physical transmission hardware to communicate between the camera and the recorder/server. IP cameras are able to utilize “virtual” hardware, allowing a camera to be utilized in multiple locations, even on opposite sides of the world, and have them operate as though the are on a single, local platform. IP cameras also have the ability to be upgraded through firmware upgrades as technology advances. This makes sure that the camera is able to scale and grow as new technology emerges or as needs of the end user evolve.

Progressive Scan vs. Interlace Scan:

IP cameras use progressive scan technology, meaning that fast moving objects appear and are recorded with sharper detail and less motion blur. This is demonstrated in the image below, which shows an interlaced image on the left, with a progressive scan image on the right. Both images are from an IP camera, but with different processing codecs for progressive vs. interlaced image:

mpeg4-2_mpeg4-10

Open Standards and Plug-in Architecture:

Common technologies in IP cameras, such as H.264 compression and ONVIF compatibility ensure that cameras made from a variety of manufacturers will be compatible with one another and can work within many different software environments.

Built in Redundancy:

Many IP cameras have built-in storage, allowing the camera to either record without needing a dedicated recorder/server, or allowing the SD card to server as redundant backup. This ensures that the video image you are expecting to have is available when you need it.

Titan Alarm Inc.: Your Best Source for IP Camera Systems in the Phoenix Area

If you are ready to make the transition from analog to IP cameras or are looking for the most effective way to protect your Phoenix property, Titan Alarm can help. We offer an extensive selection of innovative IP camera systems equipped with the most technologically advanced features. As a full-service, locally owned and operated alarm company serving the greater Phoenix area, you can count on us for complete installation and service of your system. We don’t rely on 1099 contractors. All work is performed by well-trained, highly skilled Titan Alarm employees who are committed to keeping your property as safe and secure as possible.

Contact Us to Learn More About Our Cost-Effective Security Cameras

Contact us if you want to learn more about Phoenix video surveillance systems. You can reach us online or give us a call toll-free at 1-800-973-9001 for friendly, personalized assistance.

Learn More About Commercial Video Surveillance

Updated by Titan Alarm on November 5, 2018.