Alarms and CCTV

[Tradie]

Boy has technology improved over the years, in fact even working in this industry on a daily basis, I am finding it difficult to keep up with new tech.

When I think back to the good old days (before the sadistic kind of crime in home invasion today) of led keypads and simple 8 zone alarm systems which were included in the armed response company contract, compared to what we are installing in 2025, it is simply mind blowing what you can achieve with these systems. Wireless is the new kid on the block, but I still prefer a good ol wired system, especially when it comes to going around replacing all the batteries, not only does it cost a small hand full, but it's just the hassle, forget to replace the batteries and your system is pretty useless.

People tried CCTV, back when 720 and IR was the hitech option, it was pretty useless. We would have an early morning burglary and try identify the criminals, with very little success. Trying to remote view footage was another headache, which required port forwarding mission.

In 2025, there are so many options, it makes it difficult to choose a brand, it's not even about the product quality, now it more about the simplicity of the integration. The domestic market use to be for the rats and mice just throwing the cables everywhere, making it difficult for trades to get in the roof space and work, resulting in damaged wiring, which resulted in issues when attempting to arm the system. I am sure anyone who has received a quote will agree that you would expect more professional looking installations considering the price. You cant even buy even buy a decent alarm kit for under R3000-R5000 and that is for a cheap wired system.

[Tradie]

Choosing a system has become a little more challenging. Without even going into brands, you need to look at how many apps you would need to monitor, arm/disarm, preview video footage, receive notifications and allow access for maintenance.

I would say by the end of 2025, most of the brands will have all in one apps with Ai and include cloud based network switches, alarm, CCTV and access control.

I have noticed brands which focused on networking equipment are now offering cameras which can be linked to another device on the rack to offer Ai for the cameras, camera brands are now offering, wireless alarms, cloud network switches, access control and even an app for maintenance technicians to modify or upgrade equipment, which requires permission from the client, making it safer for the client.

I get excited going shopping for new equipment