PSI MAGAZINE COLUMN: FEBRUARY 2014

This month Simon Banks talks to Peter Granville, the owner of Broadsword Security, a leading NSI Gold installer offering full security services to Oxford and its surrounding areas.

You are advocates of wireless intruder alarms. How do the labour costs and reliability of modern wireless systems compare to wired systems?

Our preference would be for a wired system as they are far more stable and easier for fault finding. Wireless intruder alarm systems have evolved positively over the last few years with increased battery life and two-way signalling. The labour cost on a small to medium sized wireless system is approximately reduced by half, although detectors and other peripherals will impact on the total overall cost. An advantage of modern intruder panels is their hybrid capability. If you have a problematic cable route to a hardwired device you can substitute it for a wireless device with no additional cost to the customer.

What advantages are gained for the business from your NSI Gold status?

This is a certification that customers identify with when looking for a quality installer. We rely on our NSI Gold status to bring in insurance-driven installations and maintenance contracts. It provides us with credibility within the industry and this is something we believe our customers respect. It also gives weight to our marketing messages by demonstrating to our customers that we work to the highest standards.

Where do you see the biggest area of growth in your business going forward?

If you had of asked this question twelve months ago I would have said fire as new intruder alarm installations had reduced in number. However, today I am pleased to say we are now seeing the number of intruder alarm installations increasing. With the development of new technology from intruder alarm manufacturers and the subsequent increasing number of enquiries, I feel the intruder market can continue to grow and expand.

Deddington will be the first fibre only area in the UK with no copper to support intruder signalling. How will this affect your choice of equipment moving forward?

At the higher end of the market where insurers request grade 4 signalling, the communications choice is reduced to grade 4 radio or IP dual path signalling. That being said, I feel the infrastructure for IP signalling needs to become more reliable.

You Said It! 

“DigiAir® debut complete and the results are – great little product, rapid transmission and very easy to install!”

Dave McGurty, Director, Atlas Alarms Ltd