September's top performers demonstrate the adage that 'the future is now'. These were our readers' choices…
  • Joint 1st
    Smart control
    From Visonic comes a programmable wireless security system giving hassle-free installation of a lifestyle management system for smart homes and offices.

    The PowerMax home automation system enables users to take full control of the system's capabilities remotely via mobile or touch-tone phones or locally via a sophisticated but simple intelligent control panel.

    Using the company's patented CodeSecure technology to ensure secure remote arming and disarming, the Visonic PowerMax controls security alarms, lighting, heating, CCTV monitoring, water and gas leak alarms, plumbing and outdoor irrigation systems.

    It also provides social care and elderly assistance as well as managing TV and entertainment devices, telephones, fax, PC, internet and other household appliances.

    An invaluable feature allows pets to walk freely through the home without setting off false alarms.

    And a latchkey mode enables parents to be notified when the children arrive home from school.

  • Joint 1st
    Security over IP
    BATT Networks is the UK distributor for a unique 'all-in-one' solution for security and event monitor-ing over TCP/IP based local area networks.

    The Mobotix M1M series is the first weatherproofed camera with an integrated digital colour image recorder and video management system. The standard model stores up to 600 alarm images in industry standard JPEG format.

    Recording is event activated using motion detectors, PIR activation, sound detect or continuous stream. Images are recorded internally or externally via file transfer, and the system can also e-mail images to a Windows2000 server.

    Cameras are installed using Cat5e cables, and single cameras are powered via a 3-way mini adapter. An 8 or 20 port 'power hub' is available for multi-camera sites.

    Five models are available, three for external use and two internal models. Lens type and internal storage differ on each model and all include integral web server, PIR and motion detection.

  • 3rd
    Diminutive video recorder
    The north London-based broadcast group, OpTex, has launched what's claimed to be the world's smallest digital VTR suitable for body worn applications.

    The OpTex DVR2002 weighs just 311 gms with dimensions of 75x68x43mm. It features inputs for analogue video and audio and will capture up to an hour of video footage at a resolution of 500 TV lines.

    An optional LANC remote control allows the VTR to be activated only when required, reducing tape wastage. The tape can also be reviewed in the field via a built-in 2.5inch LCD colour monitor.

    • Source

    Security Installer