Monitoring mechanisms

Every monitored alarm system manufacturer favours its own trigger mechanisms and any

professional installation company will be able to provide full details about the available choices. These are some examples of the technology commonly in use.

Non-dialing

Non-dialing technology allows a telephone line to be continuously screened without incurring any call charges; the monitoring station is alerted if the connection is disrupted or the alarm set off.

Dialing

A standard phone line links an alarm system to its monitoring station; if the alarm is activated, it digitally dials a dedicated number, sending a high speed coded message to identify the premises, plus the type and location of the alarm.

Combined systems

Some systems combine everyday phone technology with a radio link so if one is disrupted or fails the alarm system automatically issues an alert to its monitoring station.

Advanced combined systems

More sophisticated methods of monitoring can combine phone and/or radio methods with:

· an audio link that allows the monitoring station to listen-in to any activity in the building

· CCTV for visual confirmation of alarm activation.