Security Systems Installation & Maintenance Flashcards

An access-controlled door reports 'Door Held Open Too Long' repeatedly during business hours. What is the most appropriate corrective action?

Answer: Adjust the door-held-open timer in the access control software to match operational needs

The door-held-open timer can be extended in software to accommodate normal traffic flow, eliminating nuisance alarms without removing the security function.

In IP-based video surveillance, what does PoE stand for and what does it provide?

Answer: Power over Ethernet — delivers both data and electrical power through a single Cat5e/Cat6 cable

Power over Ethernet (PoE) allows IP cameras to receive both network data and DC power through a single Ethernet cable, eliminating the need for separate power runs.

Which standard governs the installation of burglar alarm systems in the United States?

Answer: UL 681

UL 681 is the Standard for Installation and Classification of Burglar and Holdup Alarm Systems, setting requirements for residential and commercial intruder detection installations.

A passive infrared (PIR) motion detector generates false alarms near a heating vent. The best corrective action is:

Answer: Relocate the detector or install a detector mask/shield to block the vent's heat plume

Relocating the PIR away from heat sources or using a physical mask to block the heat vent's IR plume from entering the detection zone eliminates thermally-caused false alarms.

When integrating an elevator with an access control system, floor-lockout functionality is used to:

Answer: Restrict which floors a cardholder's credential can call the elevator to stop at

Floor lockout uses the access control credential to authorize which floors a user may access via the elevator, preventing unauthorized access to restricted floors.

During a preventive maintenance visit on an alarm system, which battery test provides the most accurate assessment of battery health?

Answer: Load test measuring voltage under simulated alarm current draw

A load test reveals the battery's true capacity under realistic current demand, since a weak battery may show normal open-circuit voltage but collapse under load.

What is the purpose of a 'two-man rule' or dual-authentication requirement in high-security access control?

Answer: To require two separate authorized individuals to present credentials simultaneously before access is granted

Dual-authentication (two-man rule) requires two credentialed individuals to authenticate at the same time, preventing any single person from accessing a high-security area alone.