Glossary of Terms

electronically controls the movement of people in and out of a building, home or specific areas of a premise using an entry device such as an access card, pin, key fob, picture or fingerprint. Access Control systems allow you to keep records on how often areas are used and by whom.

combination of security features such as alarm panel, detectors, sirens code pads, telephone interfaces, access control systems and other equipment to electronically protect a premises.

the Australian Security Industry Association Ltd – is the peak national body for the security industry in Australia representing over 85 per cent of security companies nationally.

is a monitoring control room (station) that receives reports from your alarm system. When an alarm event is received from your premises, the control room will follow the instructions you have given us to call you, a security patrol or the police.

stands for Closed Circuit Television. CCTV is video surveillance cameras allowing you to view areas of your home or premise over remotely located television monitors.

is an operations centre where a building or facility’s security can be monitored and controlled.

stands for General Packet Radio Service and is a mobile data service for wireless communications. It is particularly suited for sending and receiving small bursts of data.

an intercom (intercommunication device) is a stand-alone voice or voice and video communications system within a building or collection of buildings that functions independently of a telephone network. Many buildings now use audio/video intercom systems to identify visitors trying to gain access to a locked building. Intercoms can be connect to a building's Access Control System to allow keyless entry to doors and buildings.

Internet Protocol (IP) Cameras are a type of digital video camera used for surveillance. IP cameras, unlike CCTV, can send and receive data via a computer network or the Internet.

is a physical device used to gain access to an area or building through an access control system.

see ‘Back to base monitoring’.

two or more computers linked together in order to share resources such as exchanging files.

is where your alarm protocol and monitoring is linked to your normal business hours of operation. If your premise is not opened or closed on time, an alarm event is triggered, which follows your established response plan.

a personal identification number (PIN) is a secret, numeric code shared between a user and a system to grant the user access to the system (such as entry through a door to a secure building).

observe your premise from a distance by means of electronic equipment such as CCTV or IP cameras.

alarms and other security devices that can be connected to their component parts without cables (as installing cables may not be possible). Wireless devices are battery powered.

alarm detectors are connected to terminals on an alarm panel. Each terminal is designated as a zone.