CODE 9 Facts & FAQs about Business and Residential Security Monitoring
  
Since CODE 9 was established in 2002, weve made outstanding customer service our top priority. Providing security information and answering FAQs is all part of the service.
 

What are the major components of an alarm system?
 
The following key components can normally be found as part of any alarm system installed by properly qualified technicians:
 
>> Main control panel receives and processes information received from detectors
 
>> Key pad - primary means of setting and unsetting the alarm system 
   
>> Detectors also known as sensors, PIRs or zones. They recognise a change of state and report this information through to the main control panel
 
>> Internal and external siren activate in the event of a detector picking up a change of state and conveys this information to the main control panel
 
>> Digital communicator also known as a digital dialler. Conveys signals from the main control panel to the CODE 9 monitoring centre
 

How does CODE 9 know the alarm is working?
 
As part of our normal service, regular 24-hour tests are forwarded from each alarm system to our monitoring centre ensuring that the means by which each security alarm system communicates is working correctly.
 

How are alarm signals conveyed?

Currently over 90% of all security monitoring conducted in New Zealand is referred to as digital alarm monitoring. Digital alarm monitoring utilises your existing telephone line (Public service telephone network) as a means of communicating digital information between the alarm system and CODE 9s monitoring station.
 

What are the alternative ways of conveying alarm signals?
 
The other 10% is either cellular, radio or IP monitoring for at risk customers or customers who require a higher level of security monitoring or dual mode monitoring.
 

What is dual mode monitoring and when should you use it?
 
Dual mode monitoring provides two separate pathways for communication between your alarm system and our monitoring centre. The primary pathway could be your existing telephone line, and the secondary pathway either cellular back up (which comes into operation should your phone line be rendered inoperative) or radio back up (which reports every alarm signal to the monitoring centre, in conjunction with the primary pathway.
 

How do medical alarms work?
 
Medical alarms incorporate a control unit located by your telephone plus a waterproof necklace or wristwatch pedant which you wear. In the event of an emergency, by pressing the pedant button, signalling is quickly conveyed from the control unit to our monitoring centre.

What is zone reporting?
 
Almost without exception, current day alarm systems are capable of providing, not only emergency signal identification, but also the individual zone or sensor which has been affected. The benefits of zone identification are enormous and particularly so with larger sites such as schools and large commercial buildings. To know exactly the zone or detectors which have been breached means that a response can be achieved with minimal delay, limiting damage and the extent of any unlawful entry. 
 
With CODE 9, a family home might be configured as follows:

Zone 1 Lounge Area
Zone 2 Master Bedroom
Zone 3 Dining Room
Zone 4 Entrance and Hallway
Zone 5 Garage
Zone 6 Rumpus Room
 

A factory might be configured as follows:
 
Zone 1 Administration Main Office
Zone 2 Foyer and Entrance
Zone 3 Computer Room
Zone 4 Engineering Workshop
Zone 5 Manufacturing Area
Zone 6 Main Warehouse
 

Q. What is user identification?
 
Most modern alarm systems will not only report each time an alarm system is opened or closed but will also identify the person arming or disarming the system.  The benefits of user identification are particularly important to larger organisations and customers wishing to maintain strict security measures to ensure risk is kept to a minimum. To know who has armed or disarmed the alarm system can provide a valuable log of information should, at any time, a difficulty arise.
 

Is it essential to engage a guard response company?
 
Due to limited manpower resources and the increased levels of violent crime, the Police can no longer guarantee a response to reported alarm activations where possible breaches of security may have occurred. It is therefore almost essential to have a specialist guard response company to provide effective, well-timed responses to emergency signalling. CODE 9 can recommend suitable guard companies in your area, remembering we only recommend companies who provide professional levels of service.
   

Will it cost anymore to have CODE 9 monitor our alarm system?
 
Our aim is to manage your security costs down by offering you the best combination of security services and by working with you to have your alarm system working smartly.
 

Where is your monitoring centre located?
 
CODE 9s monitoring centre is located in Christchurch in the central city area.
 

Do we need a new security system?
 
No, CODE 9 can monitor all current security alarm systems.
 

Does anything in my alarm system have to change?
 
You can leave everything exactly as it is, however this is a good opportunity to ensure your alarm system has only current user information.
 

Can I continue with my current service/maintenance company?
 
Yes if you are happy with the incumbent we would recommend you make no change in this area.
 

Can you monitor my fire system?
 
Yes we can monitor fire evacuation systems.
 

Do you have your own guards?
 
CODE 9 specializes in providing alarm monitoring services. We have close working relationships with all of the leading guard response companies providing you with choice and the best combination of services to meet with your needs.
 

Can you offer advice on the best guard services?
 
Yes, we make recommendations based on the most appropriate guard response available in your area.
 

I am happy with the guard company I have currently, can I keep them?
   
Yes, we want you to have the guard company that best suits your needs.
 

Are there any changeover costs?
 
The answer is no, we pay for the one hour of labour which is normally all that is required to connect your monitoring to CODE 9.
 

Who cancels my current provider?
 
You do this in writing however we will assist you with the content.
 

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