Abstract: Security systems, such as in a home or other building, periodically transmit status data to a remote facility so that the remote facility is continuously informed of the security systems' status. A user interface device at one security system, or a web browser at a personal computer, can obtain information regarding, or provide commands to, one or more other security systems at remote locations by communicating with the remote facility. The remote facility also reports specified events, such as alarms, that occur at a security system to one or more other security systems. Other information, such as video and audio data from a security system, can also be provided to the remote facility for sharing with other security systems. An intercom feature can also be established via the remote facility.

Abstract: Security systems, such as in a home or other building, are interfaced with one another so that alarm messages and other information regarding a first security system are communicated to a second security system. In response, a user at the second system can send commands to the first system, such as for arming or disarming the first system. A user interface device at the second system includes an output component, such as a display screen, for displaying alarm messages from both the first and second systems. Other information, such as video and audio data from the first system, can also be provided at the second system. An input component, such as a keypad, allows the user to enter commands for controlling both the first and second systems. Communication between the security systems may be realized via an RF link, telephone link, and/or computer network.

Abstract: A security system comprising a plurality of security subsystems each of the security subsystems being discretely located, typically in separate buildings. The security subsystems are interconnected by a system communications bus to enable bi-directional communication between the security subsystems. Each of the security subsystems comprises a user interface, a control panel, a plurality of security devices, a local communications bus, and a panel linking gateway. The panel linking gateway allows data on the local communications bus of each security subsystem to be transmitted to and received from the system communications bus. The security system allows a keypad or other user interface from one security subsystem to access and control a second remote security subsystem.

Abstract: A home or other building security system is interfaced with a vehicle control system, such as for an automobile. The vehicle control system includes a transceiver for receiving commands from the home security system for performing certain actions, such as arming or disarming an alarm system, unlocking or locking doors, opening or closing windows, and starting or stopping the engine. The vehicle control system also transmits status information regarding the vehicle to the home security system. The vehicle can be protected as a zone or partition of the home security system. Furthermore, a remote vehicle monitoring apparatus may be provided that triggers an alarm or annunciation based on its control mode when a change of status signal is received from the vehicle. The control mode is optionally tied to the status of a home security system.

Abstract: A safety light is activated by a wireless signal from a control panel in a home security system is response to detection of a fire by the system. The safety light alerts rescuers of rooms in a home in which children may be located. The light may be window, door or wall-mounted, and have a single, or dual opposing, backlit faces. The backlit face includes a logo and/or text that is quickly recognized by rescuers. For example, a logo of a firefighter carrying a baby may be used with the text “tot rescue”. The safety light may communicate status information to the control panel, such as a low battery condition or a tamper alert. A tamper alert switch detects tampering with the housing of the safety light or its installation. Additional safety lights provide ambient illumination and directional information to an exit.

Abstract: A security system comprising a plurality of security subsystems each of the security subsystems being discretely located, typically in separate buildings. The security subsystems are interconnected by a system communications bus to enable bi-directional communication between the security subsystems. Each of the security subsystems comprises a user interface, a control panel, a plurality of security devices, a local communications bus, and a panel linking gateway. The panel linking gateway allows data on the local communications bus of each security subsystem to be transmitted to and received from the system communications bus. The security system allows a keypad or other user interface from one security subsystem to access and control a second remote security subsystem.

Abstract: A security system comprising a plurality of security subsystems each of the security subsystems being discretely located, typically in separate buildings. The security subsystems are interconnected by a system communications bus to enable bi-directional communication between the security subsystems. Each of the security subsystems comprises a user interface, a control panel, a plurality of security devices, a local communications bus, and a panel linking gateway. The panel linking gateway allows data on the local communications bus of each security subsystem to be transmitted to and received from the system communications bus. The security system allows a keypad or other user interface from one security subsystem to access and control a second remote security subsystem.

Abstract: A method for reducing the amount of microfoam in a spray-applied waterborne polymeric composition is provided, wherein a gas, such as, for example, carbon dioxide, having a solubility factor greater than one is used in spraying the waterborne composition. Articles so coated are also provided. And, a method for increasing the density of a spray-dried waterborne polymeric composition is provided, wherein a gas, such as, for example, carbon dioxide, having a solubility factor greater than one is used in spray-drying the waterborne composition.

Abstract: Stable microbicidal compositions containing a 3-isothiazolone compound, metal nitrate, bromic acid, iodic acid, periodic acid, or their salts and water are disclosed. Also disclosed are methods of preventing or reducing precipitate formation in 3-isothiazolone compositions.

Abstract: An ink composition and a method for preparing the ink composition are disclosed. The ink composition provides stability, bleed resistance and lightfastness without requiring the use of a cosolvent. The composition is based on a polymeric dispersant which is compatible with the hydrophobic surfaces of many pigments and which forms a stable dispersion of pigment in an aqueous environment. The ink composition is useful for organic and inorganic pigments.