FAQ

Security systems vary greatly in price AND features. The most important thing to consider is your return on investment. A commercial security system is much different than one in the average home. Commercial systems are made to a different standard and are designed to last much longer. They know the difference between trees swaying in the wind and a person or car. Business camera systems can even notify a live guard over their radio if someone breaches the perimeter of your property without anyone even watching the system.

We've installed commercial security for the U.S. Coast Guard as well as a small chicken and biscuit shop in Hartford. Even though both systems were vastly different, they met all of the customers' needs and guaranteed a positive ROI.

Security systems include security cameras, access control, burglar alarms, and fire alarms.

Included among these systems is "low voltage structured cabling"

Life safety systems are another term used to describe security in regards to fire alarms.

One of the most popular security system solutions we install is cameras. Most companies want to know if an intruder managed to breach the property or if you have a false alarm. They also need convictable evidence for the police. Security cameras provide 24-hour surveillance and can provide proactive notifications before a burglar sets off the intrusion alarm to your building. More importantly, they protect the exterior of your building.

The most popular system installed in most buildings is a basic burglar alarm. These work to ensure you have an automatic police presence if your building has a break-in. Only cameras can truly protect the exterior of your building and can even notify you the same as a burglar alarm would.

It's tricky to determine which of the two are better because they work to achieve the same goal. More importantly, cameras and alarms complement each other, especially in a large property with tons of valuables.

Security cameras are excellent in allowing you to be at your building instantly 24/7. Your staff can monitor the cameras remotely or receive proactive alerts based on artificial intelligence rules.

Burglar alarms create a shock factor whenever an intruder breaches your property. It works as an instant deterrent but only protects the interior of your building.

What is the most effective security system for business? A properly designed hardwired high-definition camera system can cover a large area of your property reliably. Multiple sites can be connected back to the same software and be centrally managed. Protecting the interior of a building with an automatic police presence requires a burglar alarm.

Many businesses have multiple buildings on one property or light poles they need cameras on. We install commercial wireless solutions that reliably connect for a fraction of trenching or running an aerial wire between them.

Can you install your own security system? Yes, it's possible to install your own security system. However, there are A LOT of tricks to security systems from design to installation. Some alarm systems are completely wireless, however exact placement and programming are always best left to the professionals.

Wireless security cameras are popular for residential homes, but they are notoriously unreliable in commercial settings. They also require an unsightly power wire. Great for a temporary solution, but a huge letdown if you lose precious footage. We connect buildings wirelessly reliably using special commercial wireless equipment and hardwire all cameras back to these antennae.

Safety is an important aspect of any business. Especially with the post COVID world we live in today. Proactive alerts do the heavy lifting for your team and make footage retrieval much easier. It is easy for a property manager to spend 2 hours gathering footage from around a property. A system installation completed by Mammoth reduces that time spent to retrieve footage. Our equipment allows you to search camera footage to only show you people, cars, certain license plate numbers on a list or not on a list, or even facial recognition.

A CCTV system will let you see the important areas of your business, preventing instances of theft and property damage. Burglar alarms also complement a CCTV system by alerting you and your staff whenever someone breaches the building.

The cost depends on many different factors. Commercial security camera systems for a small business or residential home generally start around $3,500 and go up from there depending on installation difficulty. Burglar alarm systems start at around $2,000 installed.

Yes, you need a low-voltage electrician to install a security system. All wiring for security systems requires a licensed professional to run the wiring through walls in a building. Low-voltage electricians or security companies, in general, provide the added care required in running the security system wiring.

The company with the best security system comes down to your unique situation. Every business requires a custom security system design that meets their needs and provides a return on investment. This can be anything from a simple wireless alarm system to a fully integrated camera system that alerts your guard's radio every time someone breaches your property.

Schedule a free on-site security assessment where we will help you find a system that provides an instant ROI.

Business security systems offer more functionalities than the basic home system. Security devices designed for businesses have more features and are more reliable.

Fiber optics is an advanced technology designed to transfer information through small glass or plastic strands. Fiber-optic networks are faster than other data-transfer mediums and they are even more stable because of the durability of fiber cables.

Fiber is used to connect long distances over 300ft. We have technology that allows us to connect cameras 2,000+ feet away without fiber. The best practice is to run fiber for anything over about 325ft but budgets don't always allow for that. Usually, fiber optic networks are meant for large business locations and properties.

Nothing.

As long as the right equipment is used in the right situation. A wireless connection can have close to a full gigabit of speed which is the same as a hardwire. A commercial security solution uses advanced technology and provides a reliable connection. Learn more on our WIRELESS page.

Sometimes companies make something wireless to make it easier for a residential customer to install it themselves. We explain the issues with these systems on the wireless security cameras page.

Wired security solutions are the best practice. Wireless is relatively new and introduces MANY challenges that require technology to overcome them.

A reliable security company is fast, accountable, and always ready to help customers. With just one phone call, a security company representative must be able to answer inquiries right away. Additionally, the company must have a quick troubleshooting process for its installation projects and business security solutions. The company should have its own employees trained without subcontracting work. You deserve to be a name and not a number.

Our team of professionals is always ready to help you with security installation services for homeowners and business owners. We have an in-house technical team and you'll definitely get to know Christine throughout the course of your project.

Telecommunication is the process of exchanging information over large distances through electronic means like data transmission, voice, and video. The common devices linked to telecommunication are landlines, mobile phones, radio systems, and fiber-optic frameworks. The Internet is also considered an important part of the telecommunications industry.

Often included in telecom is voice and data wiring installation, access control, and anything security alarm or camera related. Anything that has a low voltage cable ran to it for phones, computers, etc. falls under telecommunications. Even alarm monitoring falls under this umbrella.

Telecommunications installation companies service security systems, life safety solutions, fiber optic wiring, voice, and data wiring, and anything else related to low voltage wiring. All of these telecommunication business services and equipment fall under the scope of the company.

A telecom contractor is a professional business entity responsible for installing telecommunication networks such as phone lines, fiber optic networks, satellite dish systems, and radio communication outposts. Most telecom contractors have an in-house team of professionals, but some companies also rely on outsourcing or subcontracting solutions and installation services. Telecom companies also provide installation of access control, life safety systems, etc.

A telecom company fulfills a client's order by installing telecommunication solutions and devices. Aside from that, a telecom company surveys the installation site to check for possible problems or hindrances. Most telecom companies have a large team of telecom installers, technicians, and agents ready to service clients.

Telecommunication services installation projects consist of the installation of low voltage wiring for voice, data, security, and life safety systems. Depending on the scale of the project, a large team of professionals is usually needed. Many security-related items fall under telecom such as alarms, access control, and cameras. Voice and data wiring are the most common telecom projects. Heavy equipment is also required for big projects that involve ground or site work like underground fiber optic cabling, trenching for backbone communication lines, and other projects connecting hubs together.

Yes, we're a prime contractor on any projects we design and install. We also actively subcontract under many of the largest General Contracting companies in the tri-state area. We also work with the A&E industry (Architects and Engineers) to design and spec projects based on a customer's needs.

Surveillance system costs can range from anywhere between $350 - $2,000 per camera for an average security system. However, some business security cameras can easily cost $4,000 to $15,000 with special features and functionality. Color night vision cameras cost a bit more to install but provide full color at night which provides additional information to the police.

A professional security installation company will have the correct wiring to use for the installation. Outdoor cameras should always use outdoor-rated cabling if it will be exposed. Aerial cable is used between buildings or to poles. Then there is varying quality cat5 wiring with different amounts of copper in them.

For new surveillance system installations, IP camera systems provide the best ROI. Video quality is the best on network video recorders. It doubles as a business security system and can help you see if your alarm panel has a false alarm. Some businesses prefer color night vision to ensure their security system provides as much evidence to the police as possible.

Dome cameras are NOT reliable outside. They have motion detection and the same quality video feeds as any other camera. They even have the same night vision. The problem is that they have a gasket that "seals" them. Some prefer domes because they're easier to aim exactly how you want with more Axis of adjustment. They work great inside a building. Outside, even professional companies mount them flat to a building which allows water to build up on the seal then freeze. Freezing water expands and breaks the seal then water will penetrate once it unfreezes. A good company will mount a dome upside down outside down to provide this camera the best chance of success. Even then most dome cameras have a foam piece that shrinks when it gets cold. Once they get older they can fail and cause IR refraction into the dome lens at night. A good professional company will standardize on Turret or bullet cameras for exterior camera locations. Some multi-sensor cameras have no choice but to be a dome camera but are built to better standards than a regular one.

Yes, some models have audio inputs or microphones built-in. All camera video feeds have motion detection, some have person, vehicle, face, or license plate detection. Some PTZ cameras have extended night vision and can lock onto a person and follow them automatically.

Yes, an NVR can work without being connected to the Internet. You just need to ensure that your business security cameras are properly connected to the NVR without problems. NVRs use local storage which you access remotely. It will still get the outputs from your property's outdoor and indoor cameras. Most small businesses want motion alerts that require an internet connection.

Basically, the difference between NVR (network video recorder) and DVR (digital video recorder) is what cameras they're compatible with. An NVR works with digital IP cameras, and a DVR works with full cctv analog or digital-analog security cameras. NVRs also have more features for proactive notifications or AI (Artificial Intelligence). Motion detection, night vision, and all other features work the exact same.

In a nutshell, IP cameras are better than analog cameras. IP cameras in a surveillance system have the latest technology and are more reliable in terms of motion detection, remote access, field of view, range, and resolution.

Technically, closed-circuit television can refer to ANY security camera system that records locally and isn't a publicly broadcast video. Many professionals use the term "CCTV" to refer to the old-style analog cameras. So in this case, the IP camera is considered a CCTV camera.

Door access security systems prevent unauthorized access and foster a safer environment. Key cards or key fobs are swiped at door readers to gain access to business premises. Biometric readers and two-factor authentication increase safety. You can restrict access to specific doors based on the programming in the door access control systems software. Full access control solutions can even integrate with other security systems, grant temporary access, and be managed from a mobile phone.

Yes, a good access control solution will integrate with this. You can use your mobile devices to receive a notification that someone is at your door. You can then open the door remotely either from a mobile app or from a phone call. Video surveillance with facial recognition technology can also be used to open a door or provide two-factor authentication.

Access systems use many credential types for keyless entry. Authorized people can unlock doors with smart cards, key fobs, or even biometric devices. Mobile access control systems enable the use of phones as credentials using Bluetooth or other technologies built into the phone. Revoke access to a specific door through access control systems management software.

Access control systems are one of the key elements to business security. A complete system integrates all physical security into one cohesive system. A key card allows users to gain entry to restricted areas on site. Access Systems can be managed by mobile devices to ensure a safe environment at all times. A Facial recognition camera at a front door can detect if an unrecognized person is on-site. An intercom allows the person to call your mobile app. The intercom can be programmed to call each of your tenants directly OR a single office. The management software also allows mobile credentials to be used on the control panel.

Door readers receive a signal from smart cards, fobs, and other physical credentials on-site. This information is sent via a wire or wirelessly back to control panels. These are either in a single location or multiple around the building. Management systems for access control solutions are traditionally run on a computer server connected to the control panels. Cloud-based systems are hosted remotely and are considered the most reliable solution. Facial recognition cameras integrate and take physical security to the highest levels.

Door access control systems cater to every need imaginable for property managers. You would want a solution that integrates with visitor management and intercom callboxes. This way when you setup a new tenant for door access, they're added to the intercom box automatically. Mobile access control management is also helpful if you need to buzz someone into the building if they forgot their keys. Wireless access control door locks allow you to rekey each apartment door in seconds.

Traditional credentials are much more likely to be hacked than mobile ones. Your phone stores credit card information which can be used at registers, mobile access control credentials are just as safe and use the same technology to transmit. Newer access control systems can even detect if a cloned credential is being used.

Cloud based access control is much safer than keeping your information on site for the average business. Information is encrypted and it removes the ability for someone to physically gain access to the software and make changes. Cloud based access control provides increased reliability as well.

A Structured cabling system installation is an organized approach to cabling infrastructure based on standards.

Structured cabling systems consisting of patch panels and backbones are structured in a way to enable final hardware ports to be connected to the patch panels via patch cords from network switches. This patch panel is then connected to the main trunk or backbone usually with fiber-optic wiring.

Fiber-Optic, Coaxial, and twisted pair.

The 6 sub-systems of structured cabling solutions are Entrance Facilities, Equipment Room, Backbone cabling, Telecommunications Room or Telecommunications enclosure, Horizontal Cabling, and work area.

First, the structured cabling system standards we go by:

Based on ANSI/TIA-568-C.0 (Generic Telecommunications Cabling), which is used for generic infrastructures, and ANSI/TIA-568-C.1 (Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard) there are 6 structured cabling subsystems.

1. Entrance Facilities (EF)

These are located in the MDF or main distribution frame or in their own small area dedicated to this specifically. Entrance facilities are where the protection devices, and connections to the internet access provider reside. This is where the building connects to the outside world.

2. Equipment Room (ER)

These are climate-controlled spaces often located in an MDF or main distribution frame where horizontal cabling meets the backbone. Other telecommunications rooms or enclosures (IDFs or Intermediate distribution frame) will all connect back to the MDF via backbone wiring.

3. Backbone Cabling

Fiber-Optic, coaxial, or twisted pair backbone cabling connects telecom rooms and Entrance facilities / Access Provider areas.

4. Telecommunications Room (TR) and Telecommunications Enclosure (TE)

This houses the horizontal and backbone cables that connect hardware endpoints. This includes patch cords, patch panels and is commonly located in MDFs or IDFs. A telecommunications enclosure is generally a small wall-mounted network rack housing a small amount of equipment where a full room is not warranted.

5. Horizontal Cabling – (Cabling Subsystem 1)

This system runs from the work area's network endpoints to the telecom room or enclosure. It includes all wiring, terminations, jumpers, and patch cords. The horizontal structured cabling system connects to your network switches.

6. Work Area

A work area is where the horizontal cabling endpoints are located. For example, your computer connects to the work area's telecommunications outlet. This outlet is the endpoint of the horizontal cabling subsystem.

The best practice is to include 2 telecom outlets per work area.

Structured cabling standards include 3 categories:

Installation, Testing, and distance of cabling.

Any data cabling company with experience on telecommunication projects has a Fluke testing tool with OTDR for structured cabling systems testing.

Structured cabling solutions planning is the most critical step of a project. From hardware ports to horizontal cabling system design, the installation needs to follow a detailed plan.

One of the benefits of a structured cabling system is the ability to go any distance with the right design. Horizontal cabling is usually restricted to about 300ft. When you combine that with a backbone you can go an unlimited distance.

A structured cabling system enables the communication between the devices used inside of your building. Everything from phones, network connectivity, to security are covered under it.

Category 3, Category 5e, Category 6 or Category 6A cabling is common for horizontal cable / horizontal cross-connect as well as backbone.

The best practice for backbone wiring specifically is multi-mode fiber cabling or single mode.

Coaxial may also be used as a backbone cable.

For business security, most use Honeywell alarm panels. They generally represent the best value for the money. There are more advanced systems such as DSC or ICT which integrate access control into the same system. Commercial burglar alarms cater to the needs of businesses. This includes multiple access levels for different employees. A common request is zones setup for parts of a building that can be locked while another is unlocked. You can even get text messages instantly if a sensor goes off before a live person has a chance to call. This allows you to jump into your camera system while the monitoring service calls you to confirm the break-in.

When a motion detector trips a horn on burglar alarm systems, you want the loudest one possible. You can even put a horn designed to go outside to alert people outside to the break-in as well. For interior alarms, many have a piercing sound that makes it uncomfortable to be in the room. You can even set up smoke machines to further deter burglars.

Small businesses security hinges upon a reliable commercial burglar alarm system. First, there's an input sent to the alarm panel to trip the alarm. This can be from panic buttons, motion sensors, entry sensors, glass break sensors, or even heartbeat detectors. Once a sensor sends the information to the alarm panel, it checks it's settings. Is the system armed? It will alert the monitoring company, who will text and call the first person on the contact list. Your app on your phone will also alert you to the alarm. A live person calls to confirm whether this is a false alarm or a real break-in.

Yes and no. For a petty thief, yes. Experienced burglars know that police don't respond very quickly to an alarm going off unless they have live video confirmation of a burglary in progress. Without outdoor cameras showing someone breaking and entering, the police response will be relatively slow.

Think through how you plan to use the system. This includes any issues you've had with previous systems. Often employees enter the wrong code or share it to disarm the system. There are many options to ensure that doesn't happen. Once you understand what you're looking for, you can now select a company with that experience and ask the right questions. Any company can install a burglar alarm. Only a select few who specialize in business security will be able to set up the system the way you need.