Abstract: A method and system used by a central monitoring station to monitor and control a local installed security system. The method includes programming into a receiver an identifier for a local security system to be captured and controlled. Programming a control instruction for the local installed system into a receiver. Transmitting the control instruction to a local security system. The method and apparatus allows a central monitoring station to obtain control of an installed security system even in the case where ownership of the security system has changed hands and the identification number has changed. The apparatus includes a plurality of receivers and transmitters for transmitting information between the central monitoring station and a plurality of installed security systems, an automation computer for processing received messages from the installed security systems, and a configuration computer that configures and controls the installed local security systems.

Abstract: A monitoring system having a plurality of receivers connected to at least one other receiver such that data can be transmitted from a primary receiver to a backup receiver if a data path to an automation computer or to its printer is down. The system programs a primary data path and at least one backup data path. The system detects an error in the primary data path and determines if a backup receiver's data path is operational. The system automatically transmits data received by a primary receiver to a pre-selected backup receiver based upon an error flag. This allows for each receiver to process calls even though its primary path to the automation system or printer is down or malfunctioning.

Abstract: A method and system for automatically uploading the configuration of a security system to a central station automation system via telephonic lines, long-range radio (e.g., cellular), or Internet. The end result is that the automation system has sufficient information regarding the type and configuration of the system installed at the protected premises to properly handle alarms reports from that system.

Abstract: A mechanical flushmount device for mounting to a panel, includes an enclosure for holding the component to be mounted, a flange at one end of the enclosure extending outward from the enclosure, at least one securing arm rotable from a closed position within the lateral extent of the flange to an open position at least partially beyond the lateral extent of the flange, and at least one actuator operable to rotate the at least one securing arm, said actuator being operable from a side of the flange opposite the securing arm.

Abstract: A method is disclosed of automatically configuring security system control panels by using calling number information that is provided by a telephone call made to a specified telephone number, such as Calling Number Delivery (CND) information that is provided by a telephone call made to a toll free (800) telephone number. After an initial installation of a security system at an installation site, the security system control panel dials the specified telephone number to establish a telephone connection to a security company database center. The security company database center receives the calling number information that includes the telephone number of the installation site, and utilizes the telephone number of the installation site to look up in a database the security system control panel configuration information.

Abstract: A system diagnostic mode is provided for a security central station receiver that monitors the operations of a large number of individual security systems over a large number of telephone lines. The system diagnostic mode provides the receiver with the capability to test itself for proper operation after it has been initially installed, or on a repeated basis thereafter, to ensure that the receiver at the security central station is fully operational. A plurality of line cards are designed to serve and interface with the large number of telephone lines. The auto test diagnostic mode tests the operation of the central station receiver, and is programmed to automatically dial into each of the plurality of line cards and to send to each line card a number of preformatted test signals using standard reporting formats that are generated by the auto test diagnostic mode. The auto test diagnostic mode is preferably provided on a test line card that generates the preformatted test signals.

Abstract: A system and method for delivering safety and security information that includes at least one event monitor. Each event monitor has an output. The system also includes apparatus for predetermining criteria for sorting the outputs of respective event monitors, apparatus for predetermining the format of a message related to respective events, apparatus for receiving the respective outputs of each of the event monitors and apparatus for sorting the outputs, based on the predetermining criteria for sorting the outputs, into categories related to distinct channels of communication, in addition to apparatus for delivering messages based on the predetermining criteria and predetermined format. In some forms the invention the apparatus for predetermining criteria for sorting the outputs of respective event monitors includes a web site accessible by an end-user. Similarly, the apparatus for predetermining the format of a message includes a web site accessible by an end user.

Abstract: A multi-channel management system and method includes a financial management system and a web-based portal. A grants management system receives a grant initiative from a granting agency and receives a grant initiative application from an applicant via one of a web-portal, fax, in-person, and telephone. The grants management system and the financial management system are integrally connected facilitating transmission and messaging between the grants management system and the financial management system, and allowing the grants management system to dynamically manage grant initiative transactions and financial transactions associated with a life-cycle of a grant initiative from the granting agency by automatically triggering events.