A reliable communication link is a key requirement for modern alarm systems. To help installers choose a suitable installation location, the IoT connectivity provider AddSecure has unveiled a new analysis tool. The Mobile Signal Analyser (MSA) is designed to measure the signal quality of mobile networks on-site, thereby simplifying the planning of alarm installations.
The device is designed as a professional measuring instrument for use in the field and works in conjunction with the AddSecure Mobile Analyser App, which is available for iOS and Android devices. Installers can use it to check, even before the actual installation, which mobile networks are available at the site and what signal quality they offer. Both 4G and 2G networks are supported.
Challenges in alarm communication
For alarm systems that communicate via mobile networks, network quality can vary significantly depending on the building, location or network coverage. For installers, this often means additional effort when selecting the location for the devices. In practice, general smartphone apps or short-term tests have often been used for this purpose, but these provide only limited insight into the actual stability of a connection.
The Mobile Signal Analyser is designed to provide a more precise basis for decision-making. The device measures signal strength and analyses several available mobile networks simultaneously. In this way, installers can compare various potential installation locations and select the most stable connection.
On-site measurements and documentation
In addition to pure signal strength, the system also takes time-based measurements into account. This allows fluctuations in network quality to be detected that would remain undetected in short tests. Furthermore, the device can be combined with external antennas to test different installation scenarios.
The connection to a smartphone or tablet is established via Bluetooth. The app can be used to evaluate measurement data and generate reports, which can be used, for example, for documentation or compliance purposes. Firmware updates for the device are also provided via the application.
Practical application in installation
A typical application involves testing several potential positions for an alarm device at an installation site. Installers can compare different mobile networks and select the location with the most stable connection before the actual system is installed. The results can then be recorded in a report.
Such analysis tools are intended to make the planning of alarm installations more systematic. The aim is to reduce installation times and, as far as possible, avoid communication problems during operation.
