HOUSE AND SMALL BUSINESS ALARMS

We believe that all the equipment for homes and small businesses should be :-

reliable
effective in all emergency situations
simple to operate
cost effective
burglar proof

Consequently we have spent many years evaluating ranges of products from different manufacturers. Our current product range was selected over 10 years ago, and although the individual products have been upgraded to keep pace with microchip technology, they remain essentially the same. These products have been found to satisfy all our criteria and have thus provided our clients with the peace of mind that only the best alarm equipment and systems can provide.

ALARM BOXES - The first thing a would be burglar sees on a property is the outside alarm box. Ours is white with a blue badge and name. It is not designed to advertise our company like most boxes. It is designed to warn the burglar that he is up against a professional system. It is designed to provide the maximum deterrence.

CONTROL SYSTEM - Switching an alarm on and off should be as easy as switching a light on and off, with the added security feature that only authorised people can switch it off! Ours is that simple. It is controlled by a small unobtrusive white keypad.

When not in use it is as discreet as a light switch by having a fold up cover.

The cover folds down when in use revealing a series of buttons that are illuminated for easy use at night. You can have one of these next to each of your entry/exit doors and one in or near your bedroom if you so wish.

To set the system you press just one button - "Full" when you are going out; "Part" when you are going to bed; or just want to alarm a certain part of your property.

You then have a pre-determined amount of time to leave. (Pre-determined by you, to suit you, so that there is no rush!)

When you wish to unset your alarm you simple enter a 4 digit code number known only by you and other authorised persons.

CENTRAL PROCESSING UNIT - The electronic brains of the system is the central processing unit. This housed in a tamper proof box and is normally located in some remote part of your property where a burglar can not gain quick or easy access. Inside this box is also a self charging back-up battery to take over in the event of a power cut. Also housed in this secure unit is the AFID communication system.

AMCO COMMUNICATION EQUIPMENT - This is another electronic brain that in the event of an alarm activation or prolonged power failure automatically grabs your telephone line and sends a signal to our controllers.

MICROPHONES AND SPEAKERS - Discreet microphones are used to listen into the property when an emergency is signaled. Speakers enable the controller to communicate with the occupant. They are small and unobtrusive.

In larger properties where more than one speaker is required a "multiplexor" is fitted to enable the controller to search the building.

Right - An unobtrusive combined speaker/microphone unit

(Click here to see how AFID works)

INTRUDER DETECTION DEVICES & SENSORS - Our systems incorporate a variety of anti-intruder sensors and detectors and are designed to meet individual needs. These vary with the type of property and the occupants. For example properties with pets require special sensors.

Passive Infrared Detectors (commonly known as "PIR's") are the most frequently used intruder alarm sensor for they detect movement over a large area. They can cover quite a large room. However, they do have limitations were pets or unusual environmental conditions are present, so we have to use a range of "pet friendly" or "environmental friendly" detectors. These are similar to PIR's but incorporate different electronics and different technologies.

Dual Technology Detectors - For example in a conservatory that gets very hot and lots of direct sun we would use a detector incorporating two technologies. This is infrared technology for detecting the moving heat of a persons body, and microwave technology, which is like old fashion RADAR detecting anything that moves. This overcomes the problems of false alarms caused by the moving air currents. A similar detector can be used in draughty garages or store rooms.

Right - A dual technology microwave and infrared detector in a conservatory

Smoke Detectors - Most people worry about burglary since this is perceived as the most common occurrence, however, fire, although not as likely as burglary, is the worst emergency for it not only can destroy all your property it can kill. We always recommend that you fit mains powered monitored smoke detectors to protect you and your property 24 hours a day.

Emergency "Panic" Buttons - We fit "Panic" buttons to all our systems for they provide immediate access to all the emergency services 24 hours a day. They can be used in the event of an accident, illness, fire, personal threat or just plain worry. Pressing it will immediately notify a controller who will then ask what assistance you require over the "AFID Speaker" system.