Page 19 - Fast Forward to a Sustainable Future

“A 480 x 320-pixel image used to be
considered high quality,” says Caler. “Now
we have HD [high-definition] cameras that
can provide 1080-pixel images and higher,
both in real time and forensically.” The
higher resolution of IP cameras enables
users to extract valuable information from
images caught on security cameras, as a
high level of detail is preserved even when
zooming in on a portion of an image.
Though resolution, usually measured in
megapixels, is a good indicator of a camera’s
potential, there are other factors to consider,
such as the camera’s performance in low-
light situations, the number of frames per
CREDIT: BOSCH SECURITY SYSTEMS their analog counterparts; however, be-
second and the streaming bandwidth.
IP cameras are more expensive than

cause of their greater resolution, fewer
cameras can be used to cover the same area.

upgraded to IP by adding a Bosch video en-
Superior Control. B-Series control panels from Bosch are “modern Internet appliances” And in many cases, analog cameras can be
that include multiple interfaces for Ethernet and USB connections, along with versatile coder, says Caler. A video encoder converts
plug-in cellular communication modules. analog video signals into digital streams.
The customer also has flexibility in what be viewed on a smartphone and controlled
can lock or unlock a door—whether a code or by a single app. HOME SECURITY, JOB SECURITY
remote access through a smartphone. “It’s all One advantage of wireless systems is that Increasingly, building professionals will
about user authentication,” says Caler. “This they do not require breaking into existing have to be versed in smart home technology
can be something I know, something I have walls to access wiring. A fully wireless in order to stay competitive. In fact, many
or something I am—for example, a passcode, system operates like a cell phone and is not production builders have partnered with
a card or a fingerprint.” vulnerable to being cut like a telephone companies to include security systems and/
“land line;” wireless sensors will also still or energy management systems as part of
MAKING A SCENE function during power outages. On the other their packages.
One of the biggest benefits of integrated hand, batteries in wireless devices must be Caler suggests that one way building pro-
systems is the ability to create “scenes.” A maintained. fessionals can really help is by educating
scene is a particular set of actions triggered their clients, so they both understand the
by another specific action or condition. THE EYES OF THE SYSTEM potential of integrated systems and avoid
One called “Goodbye,” for example, might Once the domain of commercial systems, being misled by gimmicky “convenience fea-
prompt the alarm to arm, the front door cameras are becoming more common even tures” that don’t offer real security benefits.
to lock, entry lights to switch off and the in small residential systems. IP (digital) Encouraging clients to work with authorized
thermostat to nudge down a few degrees. cameras are replacing the once-conventional dealers is a good way to ensure this. Bosch,
A user can even set up a “geofence”—a analog cameras. These cameras can transmit for example, works with hundreds of install-
quarter-mile perimeter around the house, for data and images via the Internet (IP means ers who have been fully trained in the tech-
example—and program scenes around it. “Internet Protocol”); because they are part nology, so that they can program and tailor
“You can trigger a scene based on whether of a network, they can be accessed from systems to individual customers’ needs. The
you enter or leave the geofence,” says Caler. anywhere, anytime. installing dealer can also add new features
“The systems are extremely flexible and “Bosch’s IP cameras can also connect and update customer systems remotely by
configurable.” directly with our intrusion control panels downloading new firmware.
For scenes to work, all devices must speak and can function like a traditional motion Adding smart home features to a home se-
the same wireless “language,” whether Zig- detector,” says Michaels. They can even be curity system typically adds to the monthly
Bee, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, etc. Bosch’s Z-Wave programmed to send captured images via fee. Learning more about integrated systems
Home Control Gateway, launched in early email when triggered by a specific event, will enable pros to discuss “use case” sce-
2015, is an integrated solution that allows such as a door opening or closing. narios with clients; that way, clients will be
all Z-Wave-enabled devices to communicate IP cameras also boast superior image in a better position to decide which features
with Bosch’s control panels. All devices can quality and versatility. they want and need. n

FAST FORWARD TO A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE 19