Today, more Southern Colorado businesses than ever are using electronic door locks for access control. If you are researching how to best control access to your location, you have likely already come across various options available, including smart-technology-based access control utilizing electronic door locks.
But what is an electronic door lock, and how do they work alongside Bluetooth access control to give your employees and assets more protection? Please keep reading to find out the answer to these two questions and our list of why electronic door locks for access control might be the right choice for your business.
What Is An Electronic Door Lock?
Simply put, an electronic door lock operates by employing an electrical current. There are two types of electronic door locks for access control available, and the chances are that you have come across one or both recently without knowing it.
Magnetic Door Locks
Magnetic door locks, or mag locks, are popular solutions for office buildings with glass doors. An electromagnet is installed on the top of the doorframe, with a metal plate attached to the door. When the mag lock is active, the connection between the magnet and the metal plate is strong enough to withstand significant pressure without opening.
To disengage the lock, power to the electromagnet must be interrupted, which is the job of an electronic access control solution. Because electromagnets are so powerful, mag locks doors typically lock on both sides.
Electric Door Strikes
Chances are you have come across a door with electronic door strikes without knowing. These doors have a handle with a lockset and, from outward appearance, do not look different from traditional lock and key handles. However, locks with electric door strikes require an electrical impulse in addition to a lockset to release the door and provide access.
How does this work? Electronic door strikes have actuators that connect a bolt or cylinder to a small motor inside the door’s frame. The motor must receive an electrical impulse from the electronic access control system to start the actuator and release the magnet’s pull.
The tell-tale sign of access control that utilizes electric door strikes is the “click” you hear as the bolt or cylinder slides back, releasing the door and allowing access.
Whereas a door with a mag lock is locked from both sides when engaged, doors with electric door strikes are generally locked only from the outside.
Electronic Door Locks and Bluetooth Access Control
Bluetooth technology has been around since the late 1990s and gained popularity in the 2000s. Today, many types of modern technology utilize Bluetooth in one way or another. Incorporating Bluetooth technology into access control is a logical step for those in the security industry. Many of the benefits of modern access control systems stem from the use of Bluetooth. Eliminating the need for physical keys, keypads and key cards, not to mention the additional security features from using user biometrics, are all made possible using Bluetooth technology.
But the reasons that most Colorado companies like to supplement their electronic door locks with Bluetooth access control solutions have nothing to do with the exciting tech and everything to do with the practical benefits it brings to their business.
Why Add Bluetooth to Your Electronic Door Locks For Access Control?
Here are the top three reasons we recommend local businesses consider electronic door locks for access control with VizPin:
No Network Requirements Means A More Cost-Effective Solution
VizPin’s access control is cloud-based. No physical network connection is required, so installation costs are much lower than traditional electronic access control systems.
Easy Installation
Installation of access control systems in the past has been a multi-day headache for both the installation technician and the business needing security protection. However, Bluetooth has cut this time considerably, not only because no network is required but also because installation is straightforward. All installation requires are electronic door locks, a power supply, your smartphone, and an experienced installer.
If you do not have electronic door locks already installed, VizPin has you covered with their VizPin Smart Lock. Contact us today for more information on this all-in-one, battery-operated access control solution!
Ease of Use
Imagine an access control system that doesn’t require you to fumble in your pockets or purse for keys before you can enter your building. Imagine not having to remember to collect keys and keycards from a departing employee. Imagine the administrative time you can save by granting (or revoking) access from anywhere at any time using your smartphone. These benefits, and more, are all possible when you include Bluetooth to your electronic door locks for access control.
Which Access Control Solution Is Right For Your Colorado Business?
As mentioned above, a myriad of options are available to Colorado business owners who want to protect their physical assets and employees with an access control system. How do you know if electric door locks for access control using Bluetooth are right for your business or if a more traditional solution is appropriate? Let System Links be your guide. We have the experience and know-how to provide you with the best access control and security camera installations at the best price.
This article explores the advantages of video surveillance for caregivers and how home security cameras can help both your loved one and you as their care provider.
If you are caring for a loved one in Southern Colorado, you are balancing many responsibilities and are likely open to suggestions that will make your life easier. Video surveillance for caregivers can do just that.
All caregivers have many amazing attributes in common: compassion, empathy, and great love for the family or friends in their care. But that does not mean that caregiving does not come with challenges. One of the challenges that many face is trying to ensure the health and safety of their loved ones when they are not able to care for them personally.
Decrease Anxiety with Video Surveillance for Caregivers
First and foremost, using home security cameras can decrease anxiety for caregivers. The feeling of anxiousness is often what drives families to install surveillance systems in the first place.
With a video surveillance system in place, you can watch over your loved ones more closely and make sure that they are safe and sound. Having this extra level of reassurance will ease your anxiety and make you feel more confident in your role as a caregiver.
Video monitoring can be especially beneficial for caregivers of people with special needs, who have Alzheimer’s or another type of dementia, or seniors who may be prone to wandering or getting lost.
Security camera installation can provide extra peace of mind by letting the caregiver keep an eye on their loved one, whether they are inside the home or in the yard.
Video Surveillance Can Help Build a Caregiving History
Video surveillance systems can also help build a caregiving history for your loved one. Having a video history of your loved one’s daily activities can help you show a physician just how much assistance your loved one needs daily. This can help you get a more accurate diagnosis and assist you in qualifying for any available caregiving services.
A video history can also help if your loved one needs to move into a nursing home or hospice care facility. Having a history of your loved one’s everyday activities can help give their new care providers a better idea of what they can do daily.
Caregiving records and history in the form of video can allow your loved one to spend less time in the transition period of adjusting to a new level of care and more time actually receiving care.
Determine Changing Needs in Care
As your loved ones age, their care needs will change. You can use video to help determine the best ways to address these changes.
Even if you’ve been caring for your loved one for years, a video surveillance system can provide a video history of your loved one’s daily routines. That history can help fill in gaps where your memory might be fuzzy on specific details.
For example, if your loved one struggles with eating every day and requires help from a caregiver, you can use a video recording to determine what’s causing the problem. You can then use that information to help you change your loved one’s eating process. Perhaps they have trouble holding a spoon steady or can’t see their food well enough to know if there is any left on their plate.
A video surveillance system pinpoints these and similar issues so you can make the necessary changes to give your loved one better care.
Detect Abuse and Help Caregivers Know When To Step In
Another great benefit of video surveillance for caregivers is detecting signs of abuse. While the great majority of in-home health care providers choose their profession because of their love and compassion for their fellow man, unfortunately, there are times when this is not the case. With a video surveillance system, you can keep tabs on your in-home healthcare provider and make sure they treat your loved ones with the respect they deserve.
If you notice that an in-home health care provider is treating your loved one harshly or making them do things out of their skill set, you may need to take action. Video footage can show other family members or friends what’s happening and let them know when they need to step in and help you with your loved one’s care, and even provide the video history to report your caregiver to the proper authorities.
Video surveillance can also help keep your elderly loved ones safe from theft and vandalism. This can help you avoid false alarms and make your home safer for everyone. In addition, this will give vulnerable individuals confidence that they are safe if they need to stay home alone.
Caregivers Can Monitor From Anywhere
Finally, one of the best benefits of video surveillance for caregivers is the ability to monitor your loved one from anywhere. Many video surveillance systems have features enabling you to monitor your home anywhere you have an internet connection. This means that you can keep an eye on your loved one while at the office, running errands, or away on vacation. Imagine no more worries about leaving your loved one alone for long periods if you can log in and check in on them remotely.
Many video surveillance systems can provide you with a live feed to watch whatever is happening in your loved one’s home in real-time. This can help you catch minor problems before they become huge issues that require you to leave work or cancel your plans to deal with them right away.
Are You Ready to Simplify Your Role as a Caregiver?
If you are a Colorado Springs caregiver looking for ways to balance your many responsibilities, video surveillance can be a great asset for both you and your loved ones. Professionally installed and maintained home security cameras can ease your anxiety for your loved one’s safety when you cannot look after them personally, help establish a history of care, and determine changing needs in care as they arise.
The first step to gain all the benefits of video surveillance for caregivers is to contact us to schedule a free, on-site video security consultation. We are a local, family-owned business that takes your family’s needs as seriously as our own. We look forward to helping you fulfill your important role as a caregiver!
Summer is almost here in Southern Colorado, and with that comes open windows and garage doors, vacations, and for us at System Links, a chance to share some home security tips to keep your property protected during this busy – and higher security risk – season.
In winter, our focus may be on preventing theft during the holidays, whether by protecting deliveries left on our doorsteps or keeping our inflatable Santa from being stolen from our yards.
But in summer, we may be guilty of letting our guard down a bit while we enjoy more time out of doors. Here are three home security tips you might be overlooking this summer.
Shut and Lock Windows and Doors
Yes, keeping your doors and windows shut and locked is one of the most obvious home security tips out there. However, opening your windows and doors to the fresh Colorado air can be very appealing. Even in the heat of summer, afternoons often bring a breeze that freshens the air and cools down your home.
A word of caution is needed, though. Leaving your home with windows open, especially street-level ones, can be an open invitation to thieves. When going out for errands or work, shut and lock your windows and doors.
If your home has storm doors or sliding glass doors, lock the screen or the door itself, even when you are at home. Unfortunately, home invasions are not unheard of, even in the safest of Southern Colorado neighborhoods. Take steps to protect your home and family by keeping doors and windows locked.
Keeping your grass trimmed and your yard clean does more than add to your home’s curb appeal. Homes with disheveled lawns and bushes may indicate to thieves and vandals that you are not home. If you will be away from home for an extended period, clean your yard up and do some maintenance before you leave.
Keep your fence in good condition to limit access to your home. Whether a chain link fence or wooden plank fence, Colorado weather can deliver a beating to even the highest quality fences. Perform regular fence inspection and maintenance to ensure there are no weak spots and take corrective actions if there are areas that need attention.
In addition, putting yard and garden tools away after use does more than prevent rust and is one of our home security tips that we bet you haven’t considered. Tools left outside can be stolen or, worse yet, used to shatter windows and provide access to thieves and vandals. Ensuring your tool shed or garage is shut and locked keeps your precious tools from being used against you.
Clean, Adjust and Maintain Outdoor Lighting and Security Cameras
While you are outside cleaning up your yard, be sure to pay some attention to the lighting and security cameras around your home’s exterior. The brightest lights cannot shine without light bulbs, and the highest resolution cameras cannot give video footage if their lenses are covered in dirt and cobwebs or are not pointing in the right direction.
Step 1: Clean
Cleaning your outdoor lights and security cameras is not hard and takes nothing more than a soft cotton cloth and some water. Remove away any cobwebs or critter nests that may be interfering with the line of vision of both lighting and cameras. Gently wipe camera lenses and foggy glass panels on lighting using a moist cotton cloth. Do not use harsh chemicals or paper products, especially on security cameras, as fogging and scratches on the camera lens may result.
Step 2: Adjust
Next, look at the video footage coming from your security camera at different times during the day. Is the lighting sufficient overnight to deter a thief? Is the security camera still pointing in the right direction, or have Colorado’s high winds shifted the view ever so slightly? By making minor tweaks to the angle of your security cameras or lighting, you will enhance the benefits of each.
Step 3: Maintain
Like any other modern electronic, security camera systems require occasional tune-ups to continue operating at their very best. To keep your security cameras doing their job, do visual inspections of any exposed wires, mounts, and the outside of the camera itself. Make a note of any areas of concern and contact a trusted Colorado Springs CCTV service and maintenance company to make repairs and replace outdated components. h/protect-your-home-security-camera-from-hackers
Hopefully, along with planning your summer cookouts, the above home security tips have given you food for thought too. Thoughts of security, that is. Have a wonderful and safe Colorado Springs summer!
Once upon a time, the thought of security camera systems for churches was laughable. The innate respect for a Higher Authority made places of worship immune to the security issues that plagued the rest of society. However, as Bob Dylan once sang, “The times they are a-Changin,” and more and more ministries are investing in security camera systems for churches, classrooms and offices.
There are many benefits to securing church facilities with security camera systems, here are just a few.
Protecting Donated Funds
Whether your church relies on voluntary contributions or sets tithing for members, the need to keep these funds secure is a primary reason why so many church administrators invest in security cameras. Even with locks on the boxes, donated funds are at risk of theft. After emptying the collection boxes, the funds remain at risk until they are safely deposited into the bank.
When parishioners and visitors alike know that their actions are being recorded, the risk of theft goes down. And if anyone is bold enough to steal from the collection plate, the video evidence will be enough to elicit a visit to the confessional or the police station.
Protection Against Vandalism
Another reason so many Colorado Springs ministries are researching security camera systems for their churches is to deter vandalism. High-resolution security cameras located in parking lots and around the perimeter of the church and offices capture video evidence that can be used to prosecute vandals. Often, visible security cameras and signs alerting potential vandals that they are on camera are enough to deter their actions.
As already mentioned, times are changing, and present-day churches need to take steps to protect their parishioners while they are attending services or visiting church property. There are three primary areas where installing security cameras can provide a safe haven for members.
Domestic Violence Incidents
Incidents of domestic violence can happen anywhere, and churches are not immune to these situations. Angry spouses and partners can target their victims while attending church services because most churches have an open door, all-are-welcome policy. Protecting church members by installing security cameras can mean the difference between having a sanctuary where victims can soothe their troubles and yet another location where parishioners are anxious for their safety.
Accusations of Misconduct
The news is littered with accusations of sexual misconduct by clergy members, leaving church leaders and the ministry itself open to legal charges and civil lawsuits. Installing security camera systems for churches can provide parishioners with peace of mind that misconduct will be caught on video and reassure trusted leaders that unfounded accusations of sexual misconduct will not impact their ability to oversee their congregations.
Acts of Violence
Unfortunately, acts of violence at houses of worship are on the rise. Many Colorado Springs residents are still living with the aftermath of the 2007 shootings at New Life Church, the second church incident in Colorado within one 24-hour period. These tragic events well illustrate the need for security camera systems for churches. Security camera footage can be an invaluable resource in identifying potential shooters or others whose intentions are less than holy on church grounds.
Churches as Community Centers
Many modern-day churches regularly open their doors to the community through soup kitchens, classes, youth events, or other services. These admirable outreach programs do much good in the communities for both members of the church and those outside the congregation. With security camera systems for churches, employees and volunteers alike will be confident in carrying out their duties, knowing that activities are being recorded and made available to law enforcement as evidence should the need arise.
Other Effective Security Measures for Churches
In addition to the obvious benefits of security camera systems for churches in Southern Colorado, ministries can improve their security by implementing the following tips:
Designating church employees or volunteers as door-greeters
Walk the parking lot during services to deter vandalism
Next Steps: How to Get Security Cameras for Churches
The first step to installing security camera systems for churches is to request a professional security assessment. Experienced CCTV and security camera installers like System Links are experts in locating areas that pose a security risk for Colorado Springs churches.
Contact System Links today to learn about security solutions that will keep both churches and parishioners on hallowed ground. We are locally owned and operated and are happy to provide a free on-site consultation and quote for Southern Colorado churches and ministries.
As Colorado Springs’ experts in security camera and access control sales and installation, we receive many inquiries for access control systems for property managers. This request is easy to understand. When you manage properties for a living, keeping those properties safe, secure and well-maintained is your livelihood.
Below we discuss how an access control system, installed and serviced by a professional security system contractor, can make the job easier for Colorado Springs property managers.
Keep Your Properties Safe From Theft and Vandalism
One of the major benefits of access control systems for property managers is the protection they provide from theft and vandalism.
Thousands of Colorado Springs properties are the target of vandalism and break-ins each year. These incidents can take a toll on your tenants, maintenance costs, and most especially on your bottom line. Break-ins and vandalism can also create a risk of liability from tenants and guests who sustain damages.
Modern access control systems make it easy for property managers to limit access to certain areas to specific individuals. The system will let you know when unauthorized individuals attempt to enter those areas. When you have a system that identifies who’s been in your building, along with installing security camera systems that record activity in and around your properties, preventing objects and sensitive materials from being tagged, defaced, or stolen becomes much easier.
Property management is a constant balancing act between keeping each of your tenants happy while at the same time managing maintenance, repairs and budgets.
How would your management company benefit from the ability to track how much time your maintenance crew spends on each property, which properties you spend the most time on, and which repairs take the longest?
Access control systems for property managers will help you manage your assets more efficiently, and identify opportunities for cost savings.
In addition, with an access control system, property managers can register tenants, managers and guests with the click of a button. You’ll be able to keep track of who’s been in your properties and easily assign permissions, making it easier to book appointments and manage repairs.
These capabilities help you streamline your operations, making it easier to run your business.
Securely Track Access
One of the benefits of access control systems for property managers is that they can be used to track visitors. This makes it easier to know who’s been to your properties and when.
Most modern access control systems also let you create user profiles, including photos and biographical information. This allows you to track who is on your properties and identify potential visitors from the start. Imagine, never again worrying about tenants giving out their keys, keycards or fobs to friends and relatives. The only ones allowed on your property will be those with proper access credentials and their guests.
Many systems, like those from VizPin, allow access through Bluetooth. This allows the tenants easy access while giving property managers complete control over their properties at the touch of a button.
The goal of every property manager, whether residential or commercial, is to have happy long-term tenants. And one of the best ways to ensure quality tenants stay for years to come is to provide peace of mind through access control systems.
In apartment buildings, the safety and security of tenants is of prime importance. By ensuring that entrances and exits, as well as common areas like the laundry, exercise room and pool areas, are accessible only by tenants and authorized individuals, you are giving your tenants peace of mind that they are safe in these areas. And when a tenant leaves, you can immediately turn off all access to your property amenities.
For commercial tenants, the added protection from inventory loss provided by means of access control may be the option that sets your property apart from your competitors.
Recognize the Benefits of an Access Control System for Property Managers
This article has just touched on just a few of the many benefits of access control systems for property managers.
By allowing only authorized individuals to enter buildings or specific areas, property managers can reduce the risk of vandalism and break-ins. Access control systems can help manage your properties more efficiently, streamlining operations. And best of all, property managers who install access control systems at their properties boost tenant retention. Tenants who feel safe and secure are happier and stay longer.
If you are a Colorado Springs property manager interested in learning more about how access control systems can benefit your bottom line, contact System Links today for a free on-site assessment and quote.
If you take identity protection and your privacy seriously, you need to take steps to protect your home security cameras from hackers. Home security cameras can be an excellent way to keep an eye on your home while away or even capture moments that you’d usually miss. However, these devices aren’t necessarily secure. There are numerous ways an attacker could compromise your security camera and cause you a great deal of harm. This article surveys the top seven ways to protect your home security camera from hackers. We’ll explore the risks posed by hackers to your camera and practices to safeguard against these risks.
Why Home Security Cameras Are Vulnerable
We have all seen movies in which expert hackers can access the security system of a museum, vault, or other high-visibility building. Unfortunately, however, this scenario is not limited to the silver screen.
The fact that a home security camera is linked to your home network makes it a prime target for hackers seeking to steal your identity and violate your privacy. Home security cameras are often paired with other devices connected to your home network, such as a hub or recorder, to stream footage to an online account. This means that an attacker could potentially access your other devices on the network and cause untold havoc in your life. How can you protect your home security camera from hackers?
Change Your Password
You should change your password on all of your devices that connect to your home network. This includes your router, smart devices, and home security camera. You can use the same password on all of these devices, so make sure you choose something complex and unique. Cyber-security experts suggest using a randomized password generator to ensure that you do not unwittingly set passwords that are easy to hack. One we particularly like is from Avast. With their password generator tool, you can adjust the length and required characters. Because the passwords are generated on your local system and not over the internet, they can help protect your home security camera from hackers.
Install The Latest Firmware
Just as hackers are constantly coming up with ways to breach security measures, technology providers are constantly coming up with ways to block their efforts. The way they accomplish this is through firmware updates.
Modern security camera systems can have firmware pushed to the device as they are available, or you can manually download and install the updates. If you choose the second option, be sure to check for new firmware often. This is especially important if you use the device to connect to a home automation system. If an attacker were to breach your camera, this would allow them to access other connected devices on your network, such as your home automation hub.
Encrypt Your Camera
If you use a cloud-based storage service for your video feed, you should encrypt your camera. This will prevent your camera footage from being visible to anyone with access to the internet. An experienced Colorado Springs home security camera installer can provide you with options for the best way to encrypt your camera system and provide suggestions for the best places to install home security cameras.
Don’t Point Cameras at Private Areas
When setting up your home security camera, don’t point your cameras at private areas like bedrooms and bathrooms. Avoiding these areas will reduce the likelihood of a hacker invading the more intimate aspects of your home privacy. Point cameras at entryways and other public places. This goes for outside and inside security cameras.
If you use two-factor authentication (2FA) on any online account, you should use it on your home security camera. Doing so will add an extra layer of security to protect your home security camera from hackers. 2FA requires you to enter a code along with your password when logging in from a new device. This step makes it harder for hackers to steal your password and login details, as they would have to have your password and the 2FA code to access your account. 2FA is enabled by default for many cloud-based home security cameras, but you can also set it up on your own home security camera.
Use a Virtual Private Network (VPN)
An effective way to protect your home security camera from hackers is by using a Virtual Private Network (VPN). A VPN routes all your internet traffic through a secure server, making it more difficult for an attacker to intercept your home security camera feed. You can use a free VPN service like TunnelBear or pay for a premium VPN service like ExpressVPN.
Conclusion
You have already shown that you take your home and family’s safety, security, and privacy seriously by installing a security camera system. But while these cameras are an invaluable asset to have, you must also take proper precautions to protect your home security camera from hackers by applying the tips in this article.
Talk to an experienced, locally-owned and family-operated home security camera installer for more information and a free quote to protect your most valuable asset – your family.
Why Prioritize Employee Safety Outside Your Four Walls
If you are a Southern Colorado business wanting to retain your valuable employees, there is good reason for you to address parking lot safety sooner than later. You have spent the last two years prioritizing their physical and mental health during the pandemic. Now that employees are transitioning back into the workplace, their physical safety needs to be a priority. And that starts from the moment they enter your parking lot.
Criminals flock to parking lots because they are secluded and offer places to hide. This makes them the ideal location for car theft (including carjacking), vandalism, and assault. Unfortunately, many criminals assume that no one is monitoring these areas-which allows them to go undetected. What steps can you take to ensure your employees’ parking lot safety and security?
Parking Lot Safety Tips
Promote Safety in Numbers
Encourage your employees to leave in small groups or pairs, especially after the sun has gone down, and be aware of their surroundings. If they observe what seems to be suspicious behavior, have them report the activity immediately. Managers who get such reports should take appropriate steps to ensure the safety of all employees.
Install Adequate Parking Lot Lighting
There is a good reason why so many crimes occur at night. Criminals find it easier to strike under cover of darkness. Eliminate the temptation and increase your parking lot safety by keeping your lot well lit at all times.
In addition, increasing the lighting in your business’s parking lot can prevent accidents. With the many affordable options for outdoor lighting, even companies on a tight budget can take steps to illuminate their parking lot and improve employee safety.
Deter Crime with Security Fencing
Having a professionally installed security fence around the perimeter of your parking lot can deter crime. If the fence is hard to climb or requires effort to access, potential wrongdoers will likely feel that the effort needed is not worth their while and will look elsewhere for an easier target.
Security Guard Patrols
Security guards can provide an effective deterrent to potential thieves and other miscreants. If you can afford this service, make sure the patrol path is randomly selected. It does not take even an inexperienced thief long to detect patrol patterns, opening up opportunities for them to do their dirty work.
All of the above tips combine nicely with installing surveillance cameras in your parking lot.
Ensuring a security camera system is in place and maintained is one of the most productive and cost-effective ways to reduce crime and deter loitering in any parking lot. These weather-proof and tamper-proof cameras will keep an eye on the area around your building and in the parking lot to prevent break-ins, vandalism or burglary.
An experienced security camera installer can increase parking lot safety by making sure the cameras are adjusted correctly and are recording valuable footage that can be used to prosecute vandals, thieves, and attackers to the fullest extent of the law.
The options in facial and license plate recognition, high-resolution video recording, and night vision can assure your employees that you take parking lot safety seriously. They will have the comfort that they will have access to the needed proof to gain compensation if anything happens to their valuables or their person while they are at work.
An extra bonus of parking lot surveillance systems is that the cameras can be pointed at the entrances and windows of your building, increasing the overall security of your property and valuable assets in your building.
Put Up Signs
If you are protecting your parking lot with video surveillance, advertise that fact! Put up multiple signs letting people know that they are being recorded. When criminals know there will be video evidence of their activities, they are less likely to take the risk of getting caught.
Take Steps Today to Ensure Parking Lot Safety For Your Valuable Employees
Employees are the most valuable asset to your Colorado business. Show your staff that you take their safety and security seriously while in the office with access control systems and while outside with these tips for parking lot safety. Being proactive instead of reactive will give your employees (and you) peace of mind.
Since the early 1980s, key card entry systems have been popular for access control for Colorado Springs businesses. Even though this technology has evolved over time, the purpose of these devices hasn’t changed. They provide a quick, easy, and secure way to grant or restrict access to certain areas.
You’ll find key card entry systems in many different types of establishments — retail stores, government buildings, schools, hotels, and, yes, even in private homes.
There are two main types of key card entry readers: magnetic stripe readers and radio frequency identification (RFID) readers.
Companies often use magnetic stripe readers to control access to a specific area without the need to spend a lot of money on equipment and installation. RFID has also gained popularity in recent years because business owners can use these tools to enjoy greater control of their key card systems.
In this guide, we’ll go over some factors to consider when you’re deciding which type of key card entry system might be right for your business.
Traditional vs. Cardless Entry
Cardless entry is a modern iteration of the traditional key card reader, allowing you to gain entry with your smartphone or a small fob. Many businesses are considering cardless entry as an alternative to RFID and magnetic stripe readers, as they offer an additional level of security and convenience.
At System Links Colorado, we have seen an increase in interest in these modern, keyless access control systems, and for good reason. While key cards serve a useful purpose, it’s easy to misplace them, break them, or forget them at home. More importantly, information on magnetic stripe and RFID cards can be vulnerable to thieves and intruders seeking unauthorized access to your business.
What kind of security do you need from your key card entry system? The answer really depends on what you need to protect. For instance, businesses with thousands of dollars worth of inventory on the premises will want a more robust, top-of-the-line security system with a lot of bells and whistles.
The challenge is that these systems can be prohibitively expensive for small Colorado Springs businesses. A quick search of a merchant account provider can show you that they average $2,000 or more per month for the most secure systems. What’s worse, some dealers require you to sign a contract that locks you into using their monitoring services for years to come. And if something goes wrong with your equipment, it can take weeks to fix it.
On the other hand, if you have just one or two employees and a small retail store, you likely have no need for such expansive and expensive solutions.
With this in mind, it’s best to take advantage of the free on-site consultation and quote that a dependable security system installer will provide you. You know your business, and a reliable installer knows theirs. They can help you choose a key card entry system that offers lots of flexibility for you, your employees, and your customers.
When choosing the installer and service provider for your security camera and access control system you’ll want to pick a team that can help to install, maintain, and troubleshoot your key card system if necessary. You should also look for one with a proven track record of great customer support that has been in business for several years and is not going anywhere.
Learn more about why System Links Colorado is the premier choice for CCTV and access control installation and service in Southern Colorado by clicking here.
When you’re picking a key card entry system for your business, it is important to consider how you want to grant access and what kind of locks you’ll use.
Key card entry systems are available in two main categories: hardwired and wireless. Hardwired systems are connected directly to the door lock system so that a person can’t get through the door unless their key card has been programmed for that specific door.
Wireless systems are similar to an electronic doorbell, where an entry request sends out a radio signal that triggers a function on the card reader.
As you’re deciding on the key card entry system for your Colorado Springs business, ask yourself what type of doors you need to secure and what type of locks you will be using.
A Key Card Entry System Can Be A Great Solution To Protect What’s Important To Your Business
The right key card entry system can help your business manage access control policies, models, and mechanisms. When coupled with the installation of security cameras, you can rest assured that your business, employees, and inventory are protected even when you are not present.
When you want to fully protect your business and provide access to the right users, consider working with a team of professionals to make sure everything is installed and set up properly.
At System Links, we offer a range of installation services for businesses seeking access control systems in Southern Colorado. Whether you own a large office building or a small mom-and-pop store, we can help. Call our friendly team to get a free quote and learn more about the installation services we offer.
Many Colorado Springs residents have older parents, aunts, uncles, or other relatives and friends. As news reports of elder abuse become more frequent, they are concerned with keeping these elderly loved ones safe in their homes.
The sad fact is that while we love and respect the seniors in our lives, many do not. Crimes against the elderly are becoming more and more frequent, whether in the form of medicare scams and other elder financial abuse, theft, or physical abuse. Unfortunately, criminals are more likely to target those over age 65, who may be more easily confused or are less likely to fend off an attack or escape a dangerous situation. For your elderly loved ones, home security can be critical.
The good news is that you can take steps to ensure your elderly loved ones’ security. In this guide, we’ll take a look at some of the most effective ways to keep your elderly loved ones safe using today’s best home security technologies.
Install Surveillance Cameras on the Property
A surveillance system is an excellent way to keep your elderly loved ones safe while in their homes. With the right video tools, you can determine whether there are any security concerns and alert authorities when necessary.
A security camera will record important details, such as an individual’s facial features and physical attributes. Even if you don’t catch an intrusion at the time it happens, you can use video footage of an event for later review or as evidence for filing charges against a perpetrator.
Ideally, when you have surveillance cameras installed, they should be visible from windows or doors when possible. This is a simple way to deter criminals from trying to break in. Knowing that homeowners are recording their actions can be an effective crime deterrent.
A simple way to keep elderly loved ones safe is by installing a well-built and quality fence. If there is an intruder attempting to enter the home, the longer it takes for them to get inside, the more time you have to react before the situation gets dangerous. This is especially important when you want to protect seniors, who may not have the physical ability to fend off an intruder.
Privacy fencing, in particular, is one of the most effective protective features you can add to a backyard. By limiting access to doors and windows, you can help to keep your elderly loved one safe.
Use Motion Activated Lights
Motion-activated lights are gaining popularity for home security and can be a great supplement to security cameras. These lights can be set to turn on when someone approaches the home and turn off once they’ve left the vicinity. This can help protect your elderly loved ones from criminals looking for opportunities to strike homes with low visibility.
Motion-activated lights work along with security cameras to make identifying faces and license plates easier.
Set Up Home Automation
Having a home automation system that will automatically turn on systems at a specific time every day or when someone leaves the house is another excellent security feature. These systems can also send a notification if there’s smoke or carbon monoxide detected in the house.
If you live far away from your elderly loved one, this can give you peace of mind that they are safe and sound.
Use a Smart Doorbell
A doorbell camera is another security device that can give you confidence that your elderly loved ones are safe against unwelcome guests. Doorbell cameras allow family members to check on the well-being of their loved ones by receiving notifications when doors are approached, opened, or unlocked.
Doorbell cameras allow you to see who is at the front door via your smartphone or computer. Most models provide two-way audio, so you can communicate with visitors before you open the door. Some models even feature facial recognition software, so seniors know who is at the door before they decide to answer it.
Install an Access Control System
For the ultimate security measure for your elderly loved ones, consider installing an access control system in their home. An access control system aims to provide effective and convenient access for authorized persons while restricting access for unauthorized people. Access control systems can be installed in private homes and in independent and assisted living facilities to ensure the safety of vulnerable seniors.
System Links: Keeping Southern Colorado Families Safe
At System Links Colorado, we can help you and your family choose the right security features for your elderly loved one’s home. We offer complete installation and maintenance of security cameras and access control systems, keeping your elderly loved ones safe and giving you and them greater peace of mind.
We serve Colorado Springs and the surrounding areas. To learn more about our comprehensive solutions for home security, contact us for a free quote.
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In times past, the use of thermal imaging cameras for access control might have seemed like something straight from the latest Hollywood spy flick. But in today’s modern world, anyone can utilize this technology to increase COVID screening, security, and access control at their business. Particularly since the onslaught of COVID-19, thermal cameras are more in need than ever before, since the presence of a fever is one of the most common symptoms of the virus. But how do these cameras work and what kinds of Southern Colorado businesses can especially benefit from thermal imaging cameras for access control?
How Do Thermal Imaging Cameras Work?
While most people believe in the value of security cameras, many don’t realize the powerful benefits of thermal imaging cameras for access control systems.
Thermal imaging cameras are cameras that utilize contrasting temperatures to clearly define objects. These cameras work by using the process of converting infrared radiation (heat) into distinct images that show the spatial distribution of temperature.
In plain speak, they detect and depict living creatures by the heat emitting from their body. With this technology, the cameras can differentiate between high-level and low-level threats, reducing the wasted time and costs of false alarms. (More on that below.)
While security may be the main feature of thermal camera access control systems, there are other innovative uses for them as well.
As mentioned above, the appearance of COVID-19 in Southern Colorado has caused many businesses to re-evaluate how access is given to clients, customers, and employees. The latest in thermal camera technology allows businesses to protect themselves in ways that could only be imagined in years past. (More below about a thermal camera facial recognition terminal that we love at System Links.)
For instance, some thermal imaging cameras do not reflect exact facial features or show people in the way that we see them in everyday life. This protection of privacy gives thermal cameras the potential to be used in the healthcare industry, schools, and other organizations that are required to balance security with maintaining privacy.
What Businesses Can Benefit From Thermal Imaging Cameras For Access Control?
Because so many different types of businesses can benefit from these cameras, it would be impossible to list them all in this article. However, some of the industries that are seeing an increase in the use of thermal imaging cameras for access control include:
Healthcare Facilities
Thermal imaging cameras are a powerful ally to the healthcare industry during COVID-19. Systems like ENS Security’s Thermal Facial Recognition Terminal are specifically designed to screen individuals on three customizable criteria before access is allowed to restricted areas: an individual’s temperature, whether they are wearing a mask, and their approved access level. If even one of these criteria is not met, access is denied.
In addition, using thermal imaging technology to screen visitors into the hospital can lessen the already heavy load that our Southern Colorado healthcare heroes are bearing by assisting the temperature screening of individuals entering the hospital.
Schools
Southern Colorado’s education system is still recovering from the effects of COVID-19. Remote learning has proved to be a huge learning curve for many parents, and most families are happy to see their children go back to school and social activities. Even so, the health and safety of our children remain huge concerns for all parents.
One major advantage of using thermal imaging cameras in the education sector is that while they don’t detect a person’s internal temperature, they do measure the skin temperature. Imagine the advantage this technology can have in a school system that is already short-staffed! Temperature anomalies can notify school officials instantly that a child is potentially ill and they can immediately step in to treat the child or separate them from other students.
Thermal cameras will save teachers time, and the cameras also assist with maintaining a normal schooling environment for children, while maintaining the privacy of underage students.
Small Businesses and Large Enterprises
Small businesses, especially those in rural or somewhat remote locations, are in need of security that can alert them to incoming threats without being triggered by false alarms.
Security being notified of a potentially dangerous target approaching will send them bolting to stop the threat. However, if this ‘threat’ was simply a bird or stray dog, security may needlessly leave their posts and waste time.
Large enterprises that have a huge perimeter will likely have security guards patrolling the area, but the human eye can only see so much. Once it gets dark, a security guard’s field of view decreases dramatically. Thermal imaging cameras can detect people whether they are walking slowly or crawling with the intention of not setting off security alarms.
Security guards are able to immediately see intruders with their body temperature instantly giving them away. Thermal cameras contain features like motion-detecting, loitering detection, and cross-line detection.
Sneaking onto the premises will be next to impossible when security guards are able to immediately deploy team members directly to the intruder’s location.
For high returns on your investment and fewer false alarms, ask us about thermal imaging cameras for access control systems. We provide free on-site consultations and quotes.
Whether you are a Colorado Springs homeowner or shopkeeper, the sound of jingle bells no doubt fills your heart with the joys of the season – and also reminds you that you need to take steps to prevent theft during the holidays. No matter how safe your neighborhood seems or how tight the security at your store may be, there are always opportunities for thieves to take what is not rightfully theirs. However, you can take steps to prevent theft during the holiday season. The secret is to utilize the best in security camera and surveillance systems.
If you are a home or retail owner looking for a powerful tool to keep thieves away from your home and shop, consider these benefits of a robust surveillance system.
Prevent Theft At During The Holidays – At Home
With the ease and convenience of online shopping and delivery, you may overlook the risks involved with leaving delivered packages on your doorstep while you are away from home. In addition, Colorado Springs homeowners who populate their yards with festive lawn decor have reported a rise in individuals stealing or vandalizing these expensive decorations. How can you protect your valuables from these crimes?
Find Your Weak Points
Take a moment and walk outside your front door. While we want our homes to be inviting to our friends and family, ask yourself if you are unwittingly inviting thieves to your doorstep. For instance, are your front door and any packages left there easily visible from the street? Do you have sufficient outdoor lighting to deter burglars from entering your property when the sun goes down? If you have a gate, do you keep it shut, especially at night? Giving close attention to these details will provide you with an idea of areas to start increasing your security and preventing theft during the holidays.
Change Your Delivery Method
Daytime theft from doorsteps has become more popular as more homeowners spend their days at work or otherwise away from their homes. Knowing this, many delivery companies allow homeowners and renters to leave confidential instructions on where to leave packages. Amazon, FedEx and UPS all have delivery notice services that you can personalize with where you would like your parcel left (behind the milk box, inside your gated porch, under a bush, etc.).
When placing online orders, be sure to check out what delivery options are available to you. From delivery instructions to holding packages for pick-up to changing your deliveries to your workplace instead of home, there are plenty of options to ensure that a Grinch does not ruin your Christmas.
Add Timers Indoors And Motion Sensor Lighting Outdoors
There is a reason why more burglaries happen at night. Darkness provides an enticing cover to thieves, especially when it is evident that the home is empty. If you plan to be away for the holidays, place timers on your lamps, set to come on at dusk.
To prevent burglary of your lawn decorations, consider installing motion-sensor lights in your yard. Very few thieves want to steal under the spotlight.
Install Security Cameras At Ingress Points To Your Yard And Home
There is a good reason why Colorado Springs homeowners utilize security camera surveillance systems to protect their homes, valuables and loved ones. Put simply, security cameras work. The sight of a hard-wired, and thus hard to tamper with, security camera is a significant deterrent to burglars. Additionally, many security cameras come standard with features like night-vision and smart options that make accessing video footage easy if needed.
Many Colorado Springs businesses rely on sales during the holiday season to bolster their yearly revenue and know first-hand how shoplifting affects your bottom line. Theft is one of the most significant factors that negatively influence retail businesses. If you own a retail shop in Colorado Springs, how can you reduce the risk of theft inside your store?
Identify Weak Points
The advice for homeowners above goes double for the diligent shopkeeper. The first thing you need to do is identify areas of your retail space that are most prone to shoplifting. These may be aisles that are not easily visible by employees at the register or displays close to the front door. If you are concerned that you are missing areas that might be incredibly tempting for the shopper looking for a “five-finger-discount,” ask for help from surveillance security camera experts like System Links. During your free on-site consultation, the experts can identify areas you may have missed while developing a comprehensive plan to prevent theft during the holidays and year-round.
Let’s be honest, as vigilant as you are, it is impossible to keep an eye on every corner of your store every moment you are open. At one time or another, you or your employees will be assisting another customer, ringing up a sale, or just taking a much-needed break. To ensure that you and your employees are on the same page, establish a written “no-tolerance” policy for handling shoplifters. If your plans include pressing charges against all shoplifters, post signs in conspicuous places so that potential thieves know the risks involved with stealing from your store.
Install Modern Security Camera Systems
The most effective way to prevent theft during the holidays is to install advanced security cameras and surveillance equipment in your store. Modern security camera systems enable retailers to monitor their stores through mobile devices. Whether you are away on vacations or at home, an advanced surveillance system lets you keep an eye on every spot in your retail store.
Installing a security camera system both inside and outside your store will consistently record the activities in and around your shop. This allows you to report suspicious activities to authorities immediately and protect your valuable items. If your shop does fall victim to theft, you can share the footage with the police to aid in the prosecution of the thief. And who knows? Maybe you even will get your stolen goods back.
One of the hardest things to do for most small business owners is to leave the business in someone else’s care. This is one area where security camera systems really shine. Many advanced surveillance systems come with a wireless connection that enables you to monitor your property when you are away via a mobile application on your smartphone. This application allows you to check suspicious activities and provides mental peace that your property is secure.
Affordable Surveillance Solutions Can Prevent Theft During The Holidays
A few years ago, small businesses and homeowners found security cameras systems to be cost-prohibitive. Fortunately, times have changed, and security camera surveillance systems are affordable and come with advanced features that make it easy to prevent theft during the holidays. System Links is Southern Colorado’s premier choice for security camera system sales, installation, and service. Because we are locally and family-owned, our dedication to the safety and security of our neighbors is second to none. Contact us today for a free, on-site consultation at your home or business.
Access control systems are gaining popularity across Colorado. An access entry system controls who can and can’t enter a building, ensuring that those who enter a building are only those that have been authorized to do so. As the world around us evolves, the technology behind securing your property and data is evolving as well. Keep reading to find out the many benefits and features of modern access control systems for your Front Range business.
What is an access control system?
Put simply, an access control system is the best way to improve the security of your building. Modern access control system technology eliminates many of the issues that are normally associated with key-based access entry. Small businesses in Colorado Springs want to have control over who can get in and out of their properties, while also keeping track of those who do have access. Using an access control system is a convenient way of providing quick and easy access for any authorized personnel and denies entry for those who are unauthorized, without the hassle of issuing traditional keys and locks. It is also becoming normal to see employees using an app on their smartphone to gain entry to the workplace and different levels of access within their workplace. Cloud-based access control systems, like those provided by VIZPin, restrict access to rooms within buildings that may hold sensitive data, workstations, and essential hardware.
When an access control system is utilized in a building or property that is rented or requires different levels of access, those levels of access can be customized for each individual needing access. For instance, your receptionist may need access to only areas related to her job functions, whereas your CEO needs access to all areas of your property. Access control systems make it easy to assign each of these individuals access to the areas they need while securing sensitive or data-protected areas.
The Benefits of Modern Access Control Systems
Protecting your office, employees, owners, and tenants is the top priority of all Colorado business owners. A modern access entry system is a perfect solution to improve building security, whether it’s with a passcode, passcard, app-based, biometric or other keyless access control door entry system.
The Benefit of Being Able to Monitor All Activity
Utilizing a modern access control system helps small businesses and apartment buildings monitor who has accessed their facility or property. This modern technology can easily create an entry and exit log which will allow the security team to review data to determine those who have been accessing the building. The ability to track who enters a building is a great benefit because small businesses often hold valuable merchandise within their property, which makes them an appealing target for burglars. But the appeal to burglars can apply to any property, especially places like apartment buildings and churches which do not always have the proper security around the premises making the buildings easy targets for thieves. Having the ability to track who is entering the building and who enters different accessible areas helps prevent instances of burglary. If an instance of burglary does happen, security and authorities will be able to look at the entry log from the access control system and track who has been entering the premises.
The Benefit of Extra Security for Sensitive Information
Along with the concern of merchandise and other assets getting stolen, also consider the possibility of a data breach. Insider leaks, stolen hard drives, and personal property are common physical breaches. These particular data breaches for a business or apartment complex result in the loss of data, theft, and misuse of personal, employee or tenant info. This is why smart business owners and property managers should implement access control systems that are discretionary, meaning that only certain people have access to certain rooms or information, especially where data is stored or located. A system that provides the ability to have specific credentials for various levels of access control is imperative to help prevent this type of thievery and protect property and data.
The Benefit of Safety for Everyone in the Building
A keyless access control system greatly increases the safety of employees or tenants of a building because it protects them from potentially harmful intruders. A modern access control system that uses mobile credentials can also add an extra layer of security because that cannot be shared and/or copied with anyone. Some modern access control systems, like those provided by ENS, also have the ability to deny entry to employees or visitors who are not adhering to face-mask protocols, or who are feverish. In a post-pandemic world, this cutting-edge technology can provide you, your employees and your visitors with confidence that you value their health and safety.
The Benefit of Not Having to Worry About Keys
It can be a hassle to have traditional keys because they are so easily lost and when a key is lost you have to make a new copy for whoever lost it. If there is an influx of new employees or tenants arriving or leaving, you have to collect the keys of people leaving to hand them to the new people or make entire new copies of the keys. If you are not able to gather all the keys from those exiting the company, or keys to sensitive areas have been lost, you may have to replace the entire key/lock system to ensure that unauthorized access to your business or property is not possible. This also leads to having to issue brand new keys to everyone who works or lives in the building that had to have the key and lock combination changed. With a modern access control system, you don’t have to worry about any of this. When a new person is hired at your company or moves into your apartment building, you give them access through the system. And when someone leaves, you can easily remove them from the ability to access the property without it affecting anyone else who still has access to the property.
Conclusion
Controlling access to your business or apartment complex has never been easier than now, with access control systems that eliminate the need for traditional keys. The technology behind these systems is secure and easy to maintain. If you are ready to explore an access control system to provide extra security to your valuable data, hardware, and the important people in your life, contact System Links today. We are Colorado Springs’ premier source for sales and installation of access control systems. We have the experience to address your access control questions and concerns, and our reputation for amazing sales and installation, customer service and longevity in the security industry is second to none. Contact us today to schedule your free on-site access control solution consultation.
While you are outside cleaning up your yard, be sure to pay some attention to the lighting and security cameras around your home’s exterior. The brightest lights cannot shine without light bulbs, and the highest resolution cameras cannot give video footage if their lenses are covered in dirt and cobwebs or are not pointing in the right direction.
Most modern access control systems also let you create user profiles, including photos and biographical information. This allows you to track who is on your properties and identify potential visitors from the start. Imagine, never again worrying about tenants giving out their keys, keycards or fobs to friends and relatives. The only ones allowed on your property will be those with proper access credentials and their guests.
All of the above tips combine nicely with installing surveillance cameras in your parking lot.
The Benefit of Not Having to Worry About Keys