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Access Control Innovation at your fingertips

In the third of our series offering tips on how to get the most out of your security solution we are looking at the latest in access control solutions, the Tecom ChallengerPlus in particular.

You would think access control would be a priority for all Business’ premises and that keeping up to date with the latest technology on their first line of defence would be of the utmost importance. What we see is that upgrading access control solutions is a rare occurrence, and you have to wonder why? Is it cost prohibitive? Is it a case of if it ain’t broke….? Or is it simply that the benefits that come with the latest technology solutions in the market have not been explained to them.

ChallengerPlus is an advanced security solution designed for commercial and corporate sectors and is the perfect solution for the security requirements of banks, retail outlets, educational facilities and more. ChallengerPlus is a modular system which can be scaled for almost any application, from small to large commercial installations. With thousands of programmable options, ChallengerPlus has been designed to meet any security and access requirement and can be tailored to a business’ own security policies.

Designed and built with the latest technology for superior access control and integrated networking, ChallengerPlus is the result of significant research and development, built on the successful foundations of Challenger10, Challenger V8 and all their peripherals.

Are you wondering if you should know more? Are there any upgrade opportunities out there for you with existing customers?

We sat down with Patrick Tocher, Tecom Trainer at Hills in Christchurch and quizzed him on the top ten questions security installers are asking about ChallengerPlus, here’s what he had to say.

Top 10 Q&A on the ChallengerPlus

1. Can I upgrade from my customers V8 System to ChallengerPlus?

Yes! Depending on the firmware of your customers existing peripherals (DGPs, Door Controllers, etc.), the upgrade process is a simple one, usually only requiring the swapping out of the main Challenger Board and updating the firmware chip on any connected Intelligent controllers. Hills can supply an upgrade procedure document on request and our technical experts are happy to discuss the process in detail.

2. Do I need new hardware to go from Challenger10 to ChallengerPlus?

No, Upgrading from Challenger10 to ChallengerPlus is only a firmware update. When performing the update CTPlus will also migrate the existing database. This process usually only takes 15-30 minutes. *note: this is dependent on the size of the system. Upgrade process may take longer depending on database size and number of intelligent controllers.

3. Can I program a ChallengerPlus remotely?

Yes, with ChallengerPlus you can now program panels remotely using the free Challenger configuration software “CTPlus”. Full remote programming is possible with CTPlus via the Ultrasync secure connection platform allowing you to make changes to a ChallengerPlus system without having to physically visit a site.

4. Does the Tacoma ChallengerPlus have a mobile app?

Yes, the new TecomPlus mobile app allows your customers to have control of their alarm anywhere on the world with minimal setup. This feature uses Ultrasync to connect and Push notifications. The app allows both monitoring and control of door access and intrusion events as well as user creation and management.

There is no limit on how many people can use the app, however, there is a limit of 8 people that can receive push notifications. This is centrally managed so you can update the users who receive notifications as required.

5. What is Ultrasync?

UltraSync is a cloud service that connects everything happening between the installer, central monitoring station, push and mail services management, providers, as well as alarm handling and prevention. This is done using a secured encrypted connection service requiring only an internet connection to the device.

There is no charge to use Ultrasync via the TecomPlus app, however when monitoring using Ultrasync you will be charged a fee by your monitoring station just like old phone-line based monitoring.

6. Do I need a phone line to access my ChallengerPlus system via Ultrasync?

Unlike older systems Ultrasync does not require a phoneline (but does support PSTN if required). For sites without an active internet connection or phoneline, we can supply a 4G communication module that allows full system functionality. It is worth noting that many sites use these 4G modules as a backup communication path in case something happens to their hardwired phone or internet lines.

7. Can Hills supply training?

Yes, Hills can supply all the training necessary to get up to speed on all Tecom Systems. Hills Certified training is an in-depth hands-on course which shows technicians how to design, program and manage both Intrusion and Access control functions. 9. Can I use 3rd party card readers and integrate to external systems?

Yes, the range of Tecom door controllers can support 3rd party card readers that communicate via Wiegand and OSDP as well as wireless locks such as Sallis by Salto and Aperio by Assa Abloy. In addition, by using our powerful management software, TecomC4, we can connect to many other systems. For more information contact your Hills representative.

8. Can ChallengerPlus automatically arm the alarm if I forget?

Yes, there is feature in the ChallengerPlus that allows for timebased arming in the event that the panel was not armed. You can also arm the alarm from your smartphone from anywhere using Ultrasync and the TecomPlus app.

Hills offers training courses for all Tecom solutions including the ChallengerPlus. For information on specific training courses call Hills on 0800 1 HLLLS (0800 144 557) or speak with your local Hills representative who is an expert and will be more than happy to help you better understand the features and benefits of the ChallengerPlus.

9. Can I use 3rd party card readers and integrate to external systems?

Yes, the range of Tecom door controllers can support 3rd party card readers that communicate via Wiegand and OSDP as well as wireless locks such as Sallis by Salto and Aperio by Assa Abloy. In addition, by using our powerful management software, TecomC4, we can connect to many other systems. For more information contact your Hills representative.

10. Are there any limitations on ChallengerPlus?

A single ChallengerPlus panel can support up to 65,535 users*, 1008 alarm inputs and 128 doors (with appropriate I/O cards). If more doors or inputs are required, you can create a multi-panel system allowing for massive scaling.

*ChallengerPlus supports 2000 users standard and 65,535 with the addition of a memory expansion module.

Hills offers training courses for all Tecom solutions including the ChallengerPlus. For information on specific training courses call Hills on 0800 1 HLLLS (0800 144 557) or speak with your local Hills representative who is an expert and will be more than happy to help you better understand the features and benefits of the ChallengerPlus.

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