DGA Security Blog
Our business security and fire systems experts answer the most frequently asked questions, no holds barred. Read on.
John Kolb is Director of Technical Sales at DGA Security, where he provides advanced technical support to DGA customers and evaluates emerging security technologies. A 43-year industry veteran, John holds a Certified Engineering Technologist (CET) status from NICET and a Certified Protection Professional (CPP) status from ASIS International, the gold standard certification for security management professionals.
Access Control | Video Surveillance | Fire Systems | Intrusion Alarms | Security Terms
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
May 25th, 2023
Integration in security refers to the interactivity between different parts of a security system. Here are some examples of what you can accomplish with an integrated security system.
Video Surveillance | Security Terms
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
May 18th, 2023
An Internet Protocol Security Camera is the preferred technology for video surveillance systems. Unlike traditional analog cameras that rely on physical cables to transmit video signals, IP (Internet Protocol) cameras send data over a local private network or the internet to be stored on an intelligent video server. Some applications employ cloud storage of video events, allowing users to access and review footage from anywhere (as with DGA's OneVIEW). These cameras also have higher video resolution and more advanced features like video analytics, making them a popular choice for businesses and organizations of all sizes.
Access Control | Security Terms
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
May 11th, 2023
Access control systems are designed to regulate and manage the movement of people. One of the essential components of access control systems is the portal, which refers to a physical barrier that controls entry and exit from one space to another. The portal is typically a door, gate, or hatch that is managed by a locking device like a key, code, card, or biometric authentication that grants access. The locking device may also have additional features, such as integration with video surveillance systems or intrusion alarm systems for a more intelligent security system. In addition to managing access, portals can also be used to monitor and record the movement of people whose historical records can be accessed from DGAConnect.
Access Control | Security Terms
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
May 4th, 2023
Bluetooth is a technology standard for the short-range wireless interconnection of mobile phones, computers, and other electronic devices. One type of Bluetooth technology that consumes significantly less power is called Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE). This type of Bluetooth remains in sleep mode unless a connection is initiated, which translates to much longer battery life. This is ideal for access control systems since it doesn't use as much power. BLE is the wireless technology used in mobile app-based access credential systems.
Access Control | Security Terms
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
April 27th, 2023
Even if your employees use the correct credentials to gain access to restricted areas, holding or propping the door open can create a security risk. This is why Door Held Open Alerts were created. This feature is part of an advanced physical access control system.
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
February 7th, 2023
When planning your business security system, it’s important to know the differences and application of outdoor vs indoor security cameras to deter crime. Despite their similar appearance, these security cameras have significant functionality differences.
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
March 2nd, 2022
If you’re shopping for business security cameras, you might wonder why anyone would bother paying for a professionally installed commercial security camera system at all when you could just do-it-yourself (DIY).
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
February 8th, 2022
Searching for a business video surveillance system can sometimes feel like wading through a swamp of confusing terms often misused and mistaken for one another. Learning about the most common video surveillance mistakes and misconceptions will make you better informed on what your business needs are, even before speaking to a security professional.
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
April 29th, 2021
Modern electronic glass break sensors are smart devices that are highly effective at detecting a breaking glass window. But the truth is glass break sensors can be tricky in a business security alarm system. High-pitched noises from outside can cause false alarms. Furthermore, some glass window types don’t shatter in a way that can be picked up reliably by these sensors.
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
August 4th, 2020
As businesses everywhere are working their way through the Covid-19 pandemic, we’ve been getting calls from our clients to help them open their doors safely – and we mean that literally. We have been installing automatic door openers to create hands-free door entry systems for office suites, office bathrooms and more.
Access Control | Video Surveillance
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
February 5th, 2020
As recently as a couple of years ago, commercial video surveillance and access control systems were closed systems that couldn’t share data with each other. Despite the many benefits of integrating video and access control, the cost and technical complexity made it impractical to integrate these disparate systems. But thanks to advances in technology, integrating video surveillance and access control systems is now possible.
By:
John Kolb, CET, CPP
January 7th, 2020
A well-designed access control system can do much more for your business than simply manage who can enter what doors during which specified times. First Person In and DoorStat are access control features that are often overlooked but can be very useful in streamlining your business operations, while mitigating physical security risks.