All Wi Fi is NOT the same! Let AAA Show you the commercial system difference

AAA Alarms via there low voltage licensed technicians, installs state of the art seamless Wi Fi, Wireless Internet backbone systems to attach to your existing corporate or large scale residential home network.  Tired of machinery, printers, laptops and employee cell phones dropping your “wi fi” system?  Let AAA show you how their engineered Wi Fi Managed Platform allows for true Roaming around your facility, from department to department, floor to floor, building to building, without dropping your connection.   Learn how the AAA “Unifi” platform increases  wireless bandwith and speed over “Off the shelf” wi fi routers you may currently be using.   Let AAA speed up your operation.  With a properly design, installed and serviced/upgraded Wi Fi Wireless Internet system, your operation can now expanded effortlessly without regard to constantly cabling machines and computers to keep connectivity, even though your operation demands portability and flexibility.  Learn how the AAA wifi system increases the traffic capacity and device capacity of your corporate network in a scaleable fashion.

Managed Wi-Fi Network Installations from AAA Alarms

Managed Wi-Fi Network Installations from AAA Alarms

AAA announces the new managed platform, cloud based Wi-Fi system installation and service for your large scale facility.   Call AAA Alarms to discuss their new “Unifi” technology that can give your facility comprehensive high speed Wi-Fi coverage throughout, with advanced features such as Roaming, Mesh, and wireless uplinks.  AAA Alarms can handle the entire process for your company, from concept, to design, installation, and service.   System sophistication allows for environmental scanning of frequency traffic and adjusting to allow for the greatest bandwith and coverage from your Wi-Fi System.  From 3 Access points to 3000, AAA can handle the largest of network systems.     Call AAA Alarms today for a no obligation system quote and review of your facility.

IRIS Scan to Disarm Security System

IRIS Scan to Disarm Security System

June 30, 2017

AAA Alarms announces the design and release of the industries first and only Security System designed for Ultra High Security Application Facilities, Ultra High Risk Standards, which incorporates the requirement of IRIS Scan in order to disarm the security system.

Technology from IRIS ID has been integrated into a 250 Point UL Listed, High Security Addressable Security Controller to now require the presentation of valid IRIS Scan, in order to disarm the system and report an opening by user, to the AAA UL Central Monitoring Station.   This first in kind technology is the first known application in the US.

For years, the UL Security industry for Jewelry, Precious Metals, and Department of Defense applications has issued standards (UL 681 and UL2050)  in an attempt at making the security systems as secure as possible.  However, ALL Central Station Monitored Security systems have utilized a simple PINPAD disarm sequence.   So no matter how many detectors or sensors, the whole system can fail by an unauthorized person acquiring the PIN CODE either overtly or Covertly (Hidden Camera), as has been done with Bank ATMs in "Skimming".

Now, for the first time, by utilizing advanced Identity authentication, AAA Alarms cannot be disarmed without an authorized user's Eyes being presented to the keypad.

Iris Recognition Technology

 Iris recognition is the best of breed authentication process available today. While many mistake it for retinal scanning, iris recognition simply involves taking a picture of the iris; this picture is used solely for authentication. But what makes iris recognition the authentication system of choice?
  • Stable – the unique pattern in the human iris is formed by 10 months of age, and remains unchanged throughout one’s lifetime
  • Unique – the probability of two rises producing the same code is nearly impossible
  • Flexible – iris recognition technology easily integrates into existing security systems or operates as a standalone
  • Reliable – a distinctive iris pattern is not susceptible to theft, loss or compromise
  • Non-Invasive – unlike retinal screening, iris recognition is non-contact and quick, offering unmatched accuracy when compared to any other security alternative, from distances as far as 12? to 16?

Traditional Notions of Establishing Identity

Historically, identity or authentication conventions were based on things one possessed (a key, a passport, or identity credential), or something one knew (a password, the answer to a question, or a PIN.) This possession or knowledge was generally all that was required to confirm identity or confer privileges. However, these conventions could be compromised – as possession of a token or the requisite knowledge by the wrong individual could, and still does, lead to the valid disarming of a high security system.

The Emergence of Biometrics

To bind identity more closely to an individual and appropriate authorization, a new identity convention is becoming more prevalent. Based not on what a person has or knows, but instead on what physical characteristics or personal behavior traits they exhibit, these are known as biometrics – measurements of behavioral or physical attributes – how an individual smells, walks, signs their name, or even types on a keyboard, their voice, fingers, facial structure, vein patterns or patterns in the iris.

Biometric Appeal of Iris Recognition

Of all the biometric technologies used for human authentication today, it is generally conceded that iris recognition is the most accurate. Coupling this high confidence authentication with factors like outlier group size, speed, usage/human factors, platform versatility and flexibility for use in identification or verification modes – as well as addressing issues like database size/management and privacy concerns – iris recognition has also shown itself to be exceedingly versatile and suited for large population applications.

FIRST IN CLASS, FIRST IN TIME INTEGRATION WITH UL SECURITY SYSTEM AND CENTRAL STATION MONITORING:

Although the IRIS ID technology has existed for over 15 years, it has now been integrated for security system usage, rather than for just unlocking doors.

The Biology Behind the Technology

Like a snowflake, the iris – the externally visible colored ring around the pupil – of every human eye is absolutely unique, exhibiting a distinctive pattern that forms randomly in utero in a process called chaotic morphogenesis. In fact, it’s estimated the chance of two iris (irides) being identical is 1 in 1078.

The Advantage of Iris Recognition

Iris recognition is an attractive technology for identity authentication for several reasons.

  1. The smallest outlier population of all biometrics. Few people can’t use the technology., as most individuals have at least one eye. In a few instances even blind persons have used iris recognition successfully, as the technology is iris pattern-dependent, not sight dependent.
  1. Iris pattern and structure exhibit long-term stability. Structural formation in the human iris is fixed from about one year in age and remains constant (barring trauma, certain rare diseases, or possible change from special some ophthalmologic surgical procedures) over time. So, once a individual is enrolled, re-enrollment requirements are infrequent. With other biometric technologies, changes in voice timbre, weight, hairstyle, finger or hand size, cuts or even the effect of manual labor can trigger the need for re-enrollment.
  1. Ideal for Handling Large Databases. Iris recognition is the only biometric authentication technology designed to work in the 1-n or exhaustive search mode. This makes it ideal for handling applications requiring management of large user groups, such as a National Documentation application might require.. Large databases are accommodated without degradation in authentication accuracy. IrisAccess platforms integrate well with large database back ends like Microsoft SQL and Oracle 9i.
  1. Unmatched Search Speed in the one to many search mode is unmatched by any other technology, and is limited not by database size, but by hardware selected for server management. In a UK Government-commissioned study, Iris ID’s IrisAccess platform searched records nearly 20 times faster than the next fastest technology. Iris ID has developed a high speed matching engine, IrisAccelerator™, designed to deliver 10 million+ matches per second.
  1. Versatile for the One to Many, One to One, Wiegand and Token Environments. While initially designed to work in one-to-many search mode, iris recognition works well in 1-1 matching, or verification mode, making the technology ideal for use in multifactor authentication environments where PINs, or tokens like prox or smartcards are used. In a token environment, many privacy issues related to biometric database management are moot, as the user retains control of biometric data – a small template of 512 bytes per iris.
  1. Safety and Security Measures In Place. Iris recognition involves nothing more than taking a digital picture of the iris pattern (from video), and recreating an encrypted digital template of that pattern. 512-byte iris templates are encrypted and cannot be re-engineered or reconstituted to produce any sort of visual image. Iris recognition therefore affords high level defense against identity theft, a rapidly growing crime. The imaging process involves no lasers or bright lights and authentication is essentially non-contact.
  1. Convenient, Intuitive User Interface. Using the technology is an almost intuitive experience, requiring relatively little cooperation from subjects. Proximity sensors activate the equipment, which incorporates mirror-assisted alignment functionality. Audio auto-positioning prompts, automated image capture, and visual and audio authentication decision-cueing completes the process.

Camera Voltage Loss over Cat5

Maximum Distance / Voltage Loss Calculator
This calculator is used to determine the maximum distance a device can be powered over a length of cable. When running power over any cable there will be a voltage drop. Many power supplies are solt with a slightly higher voltage output then specified to compensate for the voltage drop over a cable length. However when running power over long distances the power supply will not be able to compensate for such a large voltage drop.

CCTV cameras are recommended to run within 10% of their rated voltage, this is called the input voltage tolerance. Example, if the camera requires 12volt dc or 12vDC power, your power voltage to the camera should be between 10.8vDC to 13.2vDC. Anything less may cause the camera to not function properly. Anything more can cause permanent damage to the camera that will not be covered under warranty. DO NOT OVER-VOLT ANY EQUIPMENT! Most common results from not having enough power are infrared lighting may appear dim, camera video may appear dark or distorted, horizontal lines on the video, or no picture.

When using this calculator it's extremely important to take into account the CCTV camera's current. This is typically measured in mA (milliamps) or Amps and can usually be found on the camera's specifications. If you are unsure of your camera's voltage and current specifications contact your CCTV camera distributor. Most camera current specifications are based on its maximum current draw. Example, you have a CCTV camera with a 200' infrared range, during day time when the infrared LEDs are not on the camera only requires 200mA while at night time when the infrared LEDs turn on that camera will draw 1200mA.

This is very important to take into consideration when using this calculator because this variable in current can cause you to over-volt your camera! Current is a huge factor when calculating voltage loss. A camera with no infrared LEDs (200mA) can be run using CAT5 cable and a 12vDC transformer up to 300' while an infrared camera (500mA) bearly makes it half that distance.

Our best and simplest solution for running power over long distance is a 24vAC to 12vDC power converter. These devices are great for long distance power, simply run the standard 24vAC power over the cable and convert back to 12vDC at the end of the run. This solves problems with variable voltage on IR and mechanical cameras. The converter will take anywhere from 18vAC - 28vAC this allows for a much larger voltage drop and the ability to maintain your 12vDC power.

TVI Camera Technology Explained

HD Analog Overview

HD Analog technology was first introduced to the security industry in 2010, as an alternative to traditional Analog and IP video surveillance. A very promising new technology, HD Analog was able to deliver high-definition video over coaxial cabling (HD over coax), and greatly reduce installation and operational complexity (relative to IP surveillance solutions).

However, the market was slow to adopt HD Analog at the time, as the technology was still unproven, relatively expensive, and the benefits failed to outweigh the switching costs for most security integrators.

Since, the demand - and expectation - for higher definition surveillance video continued to accelerate, fueling the development of more efficient and cost-effective HD Analog technology formats, and significantly driving down total cost of ownership. As a result, HD Analog has become one of the fastest growing categories in the history of video surveillance, and threatens to outpace - and eventually replace - traditional Analog technology sales in the very near future.

HD Analog BenefitsHD Analog Benefits

When compared to traditional Analog or IP technologies, HD Analog offers significant and measurable advantages. In fact, HD Analog is commonly marketed as “the best of both worlds” – offering megapixel resolution images, but the simplicity and cost of Analog.

Key benefits of HD Analog technology include:

Megapixel resolution
Simple installation
Zero latency
Low cabling requirements
Longer transmission
Transition friendly
Cost-effective

When Is HD Analog Right for Your Surveillance Application?

HD Analog is ideal for surveillance applications that require detailed video, such as facial identification and license plate recognition. HD Analog solutions support up to 1080p resolution, and feature the ability to zoom in on live and recorded video for a more detailed view.

HD Analog is a very cost-effective solution for both new and replacement installations – enabling you to utilize legacy analog cameras (dependent upon HD Analog technology employed) and legacy coaxial cabling – saving you valuable installation time and equipment costs.

HD Analog solutions are also ideal for long distance installations, or applications requiring longer cable runs – providing the ability to transmit HD video up to 1600’ with zero latency (dependent upon HD Analog technology employed).

Finally, HD Analog is ideal for Analog system upgrades. HD solutions offer backwards compatibility with existing analog cameras, allowing you to upgrade to a high-definition surveillance solution over time and at your own pace – as your budget allows.

The Future of HD Analog

Without question, HD Analog technology will continue to evolve. Future versions of HD Analog are predicted to provide additional benefits and capabilities, including:

Ultra-High-Definition (UHD) video – “4K” resolution, or 4000 horizontal pixels
Higher frame rates – beyond 30 fps
Power over coaxial cable (PoC)

HD Analog is clearly poised to change the landscape of video surveillance. Stay tuned.

Compare HD Analog Technology

Since HD Analog technology launched in 2010, several HD Analog formats have been developed, including: HD-SDI, AHD, HD-CVI and HD-TVI. While all HD Analog options offer the same basic benefits compared to analog or IP – delivering HD video over standard coaxial cable – formats vary in the resolution, transmission distance, camera compatibilities, and configurability.

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Compare HD Analog Technology
HD Analog CCTV vs. IP Video Surveillance

IP cameras (commonly referred to as Network cameras, or Megapixel cameras) feature an embedded video server that converts images into a digital format inside of the camera. Because IP cameras are embedded devices and do not need to output an analog signal, they are capable of capturing far higher resolutions than traditional analog cameras.

IP cameras connect to a local network via a single Ethernet cable, which transmits power, video and data to and from the camera. Additionally, IP cameras have a unique IP address, and can be accessed directly via the network – providing remote access and storage flexibility.

Without question, the primary benefits of IP security cameras are resolution and image quality – allowing users to capture forensic level detail, and to digitally zoom in on any image without losing clarity. This results in more effective identification, and provides greater accuracy for automated analysis, alarms and notifications.

Most common IP solutions range from 1.3 megapixel (1280 x 1024 pixels) to 5.0 megapixel (2592 x 1944 pixels), and some manufacturers offer IP cameras that deliver 20+ megapixel resolutions. However, the resolution and frame rate captured for a specific application are typically limited by storage and bandwidth constraints, and higher megapixel models can be cost prohibitive.

IP video surveillance solutions have experienced a dramatic increase in popularity, driven by the capability to capture higher-resolution megapixel video, an overall increase in adaption and understanding of IP-based technologies, simplification and increasing compatibility of IP security technology, and reductions in cost as demand (and production volume) continues to grow.
Benefits of IP

Capable of higher resolutions than traditional analog solutions
Transmit power, video and data over single Ethernet cable
IP camera can operate as a standalone network device, capable of functioning without a network video recorder

Limitations of IP

Require a complex network infrastructure
Offer limited transmission distance
Commonly experience video latency
Require considerable network bandwidth
Can be extremely costly compared to traditional analog and comparable Analog HD systems

The Advantages of HD Analog

HD Analog systems are capable of delivering up to 1080p HD video – addressing the primary shortcoming of traditional analog solutions. 1080p (or 2.1 megapixel) cameras capture more than 4x the resolution of the most powerful analog cameras – allowing users to effectively zoom in to view the level of detail required for most common security applications.

Additionally, HD analog systems are capable of transmitting video over standard coaxial cabling (new or existing) – dramatically reducing the time, cost and complexity associated with a comparable IP solution. HD cameras can transmit video up to 1600’ – over 5x the distance of an IP system, and transmits with zero latency – a very common issue with most IP installations.

HD Analog systems are as simple to install and maintain as traditional analog solutions – not requiring the networking equipment and knowledge associated with IP solutions. And because HD Analog lives off the network, they don’t interfere with other network-related activities, or consume valuable network bandwidth required by other devices.

There are no licensing or recurring fees associated with HD Analog solutions, and all channels come completely enabled – for the life of your product. Comparable IP solutions commonly require the purchase of a license for every channel used, and a recurring annual fee to maintain that license. This is an important consideration from a perspective of both management complexity and total cost of ownership.

And importantly, HD technology has become increasingly accessible. With the growing demand for higher definition video and the recent emergence of more cost-effective technologies, the market price for HD Analog solutions has reduced dramatically – almost to Analog levels. HD Analog equipment is now available for less than half the price of a comparable IP solution.

HD CCTV vs. Analog CCTV

Analog CCTV is the most established, and continues to be the most commonly used, security technology – specifically for smaller camera count, single-site applications. Analog systems include one or more analog cameras that transmit video via coaxial cabling, which connects directly to an analog DVR (digital video recorder). The DVR uses video capture cards to convert the analog signal to a digital signal for storage and network transmission.

Traditional analog systems offer resolutions ranging from CIF (352 x 240 pixels) to D1 (720 x 480 pixels), and recent analog technology offerings promote even higher resolutions of up to 960H (960 x 480 pixels).

However, while analog solutions are capable of capturing clean video evidence, these maximum resolutions limit the ability to digitally zoom in on live and recorded video without significant loss of image clarity, and typically do not provide the level of detail required for applications such as facial recognition or license plate identification.

That being said, analog video security solutions are a popular option for many residential and small business applications, as they are simple to install and operate, and very affordable when compared to traditional IP solutions.
Benefits of Analog CCTV

Simple to install, operate and maintain
Affordable compared to traditional IP solutions
Universally compatible with other analog technologies

Limitations of Analog CCTV

Analog CCTV cameras offer limited resolution (up to 960H, or 960 x 480 pixels)
Insufficient resolution for applications requiring greater levels of detail, such as facial recognition or license plate identification

The Advantages of HD Analog

HD Analog technology delivers the simplicity and affordability of traditional analog solutions, while addressing many of the limitations listed above.

HD Analog systems are capable of delivering megapixel resolution HD video (up to 1920 x 1080 pixels) over standard coaxial cabling, providing the ability to digitally zoom in on both live and recorded video to capture the forensic level of detail needed for positive identification.

Additionally, HD Analog solutions are compatible with existing analog CCTV cameras and can leverage existing coaxial cabling, dramatically reducing the time and cost associated with a transition.

And importantly, HD technology has become increasingly accessible. With the growing demand for higher definition video and the recent emergence of more cost-effective technologies, the market price for HD Analog solutions has reduced dramatically – almost to Analog levels.