Page 71 - November 2015 Green Builder Magazine
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users to extract valuable information from 69
images caught on security cameras, as a
IMAGE CREDIT: BOSCH SECURITY SYSTEMS high level of detail is preserved even when
zooming in on a portion of an image.
Superior Control. B-Series control panels from Bosch are “modern Internet appliances” www.greenbuildermedia.com 11.2015
that include multiple interfaces for Ethernet and USB connections, along with versatile Though resolution, usually measured
plug-in cellular communication modules. in megapixels, is a good indicator of
a camera’s potential, there are other
scene is a particular set of actions triggered also still function during power outages. factors to consider, such as the camera’s
by another specific action or condition. On the other hand, batteries in wireless performance in low-light situations, the
One called “Goodbye,” for example, might devices must be maintained. number of frames per second and the
prompt the alarm to arm, the front door streaming bandwidth.
to lock, entry lights to switch off and the THE EYES OF THE SYSTEM
thermostat to nudge down a few degrees. IP cameras are more expensive than
Once the domain of commercial systems, their analog counterparts; however,
A user can even set up a “geofence”—a cameras are becoming more common because of their greater resolution, fewer
quarter-mile perimeter around the house, for even in small residential systems. IP cameras can be used to cover the same
example—and program scenes around it. (digital) cameras are replacing the once- area. And in many cases, analog cameras
conventional analog cameras. These can be upgraded to IP by adding a
“You can trigger a scene based on cameras can transmit data and images via Bosch video encoder, says Caler. A video
whether you enter or leave the geofence,” the Internet (IP means “Internet Protocol”); encoder converts analog video signals
says Caler. “The systems are extremely because they are part of a network, they into digital streams.
flexible and configurable.” can be accessed from anywhere, anytime.
HOME SECURITY, JOB SECURITY
For scenes to work, all devices must “Bosch’s IP cameras can also connect
speak the same wireless “language,” directly with our intrusion control panels Increasingly, building professionals will
whether Zig-Bee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, etc. and can function like a traditional motion have to be versed in smart home technology
Bosch’s Z-Wave Home Control Gateway, detector,” says Michaels. They can even be in order to stay competitive. In fact, many
launched in early 2015, is an integrated programmed to send captured images via production builders have partnered with
solution that allows all Z-Wave-enabled email when triggered by a specific event, companies to include security systems
devices to communicate with Bosch’s such as a door opening or closing. and/or energy management systems as
control panels. All devices can be viewed part of their packages.
on a smartphone and controlled by a IP cameras also boast superior image
single app. quality and versatility. Caler suggests that one way building
professionals can really help is by
One advantage of wireless systems is “A 480 x 320-pixel image used to be educating their clients, so they both
that they do not require breaking into considered high quality,” says Caler. “Now understand the potential of integrated
existing walls to access wiring. A fully we have HD [high-definition] cameras that systems and avoid being misled by
wireless system operates like a cell phone can provide 1080-pixel images and higher, gimmicky “convenience features”
and is not vulnerable to being cut like a both in real time and forensically.” The that don’t offer real security benefits.
telephone “land line;” wireless sensors will higher resolution of IP cameras enables Encouraging clients to work with
authorized dealers is a good way to
ensure this. Bosch, for example, works
with hundreds of installers who have
been fully trained in the technology, so
that they can program and tailor systems
to individual customers’ needs. The
installing dealer can also add new features
and update customer systems remotely by
downloading new firmware.
Adding smart home features to a
home security system typically adds to
the monthly fee. Learning more about
integrated systems will enable pros to
discuss “use case” scenarios with clients;
that way, clients will be in a better position
to decide which features they want and
need. GB
