The security system in a typical small to medium business (SMB) will likely include surveillance cameras, a recorder, access control software with cards and card readers, and intrusion sensors with an alarm panel. Then depending upon needs, a business might add video and/or audio intercoms, a visitor management system, mass notification, vehicle tracking, biometric devices, fire alarms, and sound and communication.
That’s a lot of components. Unfortunately, that’s often how systems are viewed – as disparate pieces of equipment, each serving its own specific purpose. In reality, they should be viewed, and function, as one integrated system. And with increasing frequency, security is even being integrated with building automation systems such as HVAC, lighting and water.