1 - Introduction and Organization of the Book

Abstract

This chapter designs convergence-based integrated security systems and enterprise integrated security systems. These are security systems that have three major defining attributes. Integrated security systems comprise numerous subsystems together into one complete, highly coordinated, high functioning system. Typical subsystems include alarm, access control, closed-circuit video, two-way voice communication, parking control, and other related systems. System integration involves both the integration of components and the integration of functions. High-level functions can be obtained by integrating components into a comprehensive working system, instead of individual disconnected subsystems. Convergence-based integrated security systems are integrated security systems that utilize Transact Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) Ethernet infrastructure as the basic communications media. This is the result of a convergence of industries. Most new integrated security systems are convergence-based systems. The chapter also discusses enterprise integrated security systems concepts in depth. Enterprise integrated security systems are those security systems that have been integrated with other systems, including elevators, private automatic branch exchanges, human relations programs, security video and intercommunications systems, at the corporate wide level to perform a wide variety of automated security-related tasks in a manner consistent with corporate or agency policies and procedures and that do so uniformly across the entire enterprise.