The TRENDnet TI-PG1284i network switch is an attractive solution for locations that are less than ideal. TRENDnet has introduced a new industrial-grade hardened network switch that promises to become a “go-to” component for installers when they have network locations that don’t have the best environmental conditions. TRENDnet has been involved in the electronics world since […]
11 Common Types of Security Cameras
Bullet, dome, covert, outdoor, varifocal and night vision are just some of the common types of surveillance cameras. Here’s a quick reference list. Selecting a type of security camera is simple, right? If you want a camera that follows people as they move, you want a pan/tilt/zoom or PTZ camera. Otherwise you want a fixed […]
Minuteman PRO1500RT UPS Has Few Downsides
This uninterruptible power supply bests comparable units in both price and performance. Minuteman Power Technologies’ power protection products are manufactured by Para Systems, based in Carrollton, Texas. Now in its 35th year, the company’s product line is well supported and respected, and we tested its remote power management system in August 2016. Our positive experiences […]
How to Keep Customers Happy When Overworked
An improving economy means more work for integrators, but do they have the time? As we start the year with high hopes and expectations, I wanted to bring up a topic that impacted many of us last year. Too much work and too few resources, including time and manpower, to complete that work. Sounds like […]
Bench Test: Ubiquiti Router Ramps Up Networking With Nary a Net
Thanks to widespread hacking nowadays, the sub $100 “basic” network router just can’t provide the protection needed for video surveillance systems. THE SECURITY AND VIDEO SURVEILLANCE world has been evolving the past decade from a mostly analog-based environment to an IP-based one. Security camera systems today have changed from analog matrix switches, VCRs and CRT […]
Why Security Matters for the Greater Good
When evaluating a video surveillance installation, careful attention to camera placement, image quality and timeliness of repairs could ultimately have very real and positive benefits to our communities. One thing I find interesting about reading a blog is that they live virtually forever. If you search for a topic, click on a link and start […]
Want to Increase Bid Response Success? Consider Outsourcing an Eye for Detail
Attention to basic writing skills such as grammar, spelling and punctuation may count more than your technical response in many cases. Hiring a proofreader can differentiate you from the competition. Back in 2010 I wrote about how attention to detail in a written proposal (“Spelling Counts”) can make or break a bid response in unexpected […]
ISONAS IP Access Is a ‘Pure’ Pleasure
With both hardware and software components, reviewing the ISONAS IP access control system was a complicated process. Up until now, our product reviews have been “inside the box.” That is products that came in a box, and while they tended to serve as part of a larger system they were reviewed on their own merits. […]
How to Solve a Potential Audio Dilemma Involving Your Amazon Echo Dot
Having this problem? Check out this product review of the Rolls MX51S Mini Mix II. As we start to add more accessories to our connected home, our efforts to simplify our lives can actually complicate them. I recently ran into one such example and wanted to share my way of solving the problem. I’ve been adding […]
Minuteman Power Management Proven to Prevent Hours of Downtime
The RPM Series from Minuteman received high marks when put to the test, particularly the eight-port RPM1581HVN. Many moons ago I had the privilege of working as director of product line management for what ultimately became Tyco Security Products’ video products division. I’m not sure if other companies do this, but we used to break […]
