Darren Nix

Tip of the Month: System Testing 101

  • By Darren A. Nix
  • Feb 07, 2011
I was recently asked to review and test a large security management system. Upon scheduling the testing date, I was asked if a construction review and auditing agency could follow us during the testing. The agency’s primary objective was to review and audit design and construction projects on a very routine basis. During the testing, the representatives from the agency asked questions and took many notes. I quickly realized that this was a learning opportunity for them. I was somewhat shocked that this type of agency did not fully understand the elements of a security management system and how to test the system. Nevertheless, I was more than happy to instruct along the way.

Whether you are directly responsible for routine audits, similar to this agency; a security professional accountable for testing your company’s systems; or even a home owner with a burglar alarm system, you must fully understand how to test your system and conduct frequent, routine testing.

When testing a system, the main objective is to ensure all equipment is functioning properly and all devices are reporting correctly (e.g. door alarms, video cameras, etc.). There are certainly many methods of testing multiple types of devices, equipment and systems; however, here are some of the basics:

1. Contact alarm operators – Before you begin testing, you should contact those responsible for monitoring the alarm activity on the system. In some cases, that may be a third party company. If so, you should request for them to keep an activity log during your testing time.

2. Arm the system – When testing a burglar alarm system, you must first arm the system. If you are testing a security management system, you should make sure all alarm devices are set to report alarm conditions during the testing period.

3. Doors

a. Door status switch or alarm contact – If a magnetic switch is used, place a magnet in front of the switch for a few seconds while the door is open. When removed, the alarm should report.

b. If using a 'door held open' alarm on a security management system, leave the door open and do not place the magnet in front of the switch for the amount of time allowed in the system for a door to stay open before an alarm sounds.

4. Card Readers – Use a variety of credentials for testing. Each credential should be set for the following:

a. Access granted
b. Access denied
c. Unknown badge

5. Cameras – Check for the following: (some systems will initiate an alarm on some events)

a. Correct field-of-view
b. Focused
c. Recording at set times
d. Loss of video signal
e. Covered lens
f. Clean domes

Finally, make sure you test all of the systems communications and associated alarms and be thorough when testing all aspects of your system.

About the Author

Darren Nix is a senior associate at Risk Management Associates, Inc.

Featured

  • The Evolution of IP Camera Intelligence

    As the 30th anniversary of the IP camera approaches in 2026, it is worth reflecting on how far we have come. The first network camera, launched in 1996, delivered one frame every 17 seconds—not impressive by today’s standards, but groundbreaking at the time. It did something that no analog system could: transmit video over a standard IP network. Read Now

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • AC Nio

    AC Nio

    Aiphone, a leading international manufacturer of intercom, access control, and emergency communication products, has introduced the AC Nio, its access control management software, an important addition to its new line of access control solutions.

  • HD2055 Modular Barricade

    Delta Scientific’s electric HD2055 modular shallow foundation barricade is tested to ASTM M50/P1 with negative penetration from the vehicle upon impact. With a shallow foundation of only 24 inches, the HD2055 can be installed without worrying about buried power lines and other below grade obstructions. The modular make-up of the barrier also allows you to cover wider roadways by adding additional modules to the system. The HD2055 boasts an Emergency Fast Operation of 1.5 seconds giving the guard ample time to deploy under a high threat situation.

  • Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems V07

    Automatic Systems, an industry-leading manufacturer of pedestrian and vehicle secure entrance control access systems, is pleased to announce the release of its groundbreaking V07 software. The V07 software update is designed specifically to address cybersecurity concerns and will ensure the integrity and confidentiality of Automatic Systems applications. With the new V07 software, updates will be delivered by means of an encrypted file.