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LATEST ISSUE
March 2012
March 2012
The March 2012 issue features in-depth tests of the latest LED 19 inch monitor from Vigilant Vision, the BC620WDR camera from Siqura and Risco's wireless infrared beam detectors.

The issue also includes the first part of a test of hybrid video recorders, as well as a comparative test of biometric fingerprint readers.

There is a look at ten leading door control options, as well as an assessment of products that could help fight against the current wave of metal thefts.

Read this issue...

Leeds
Siqura
ABOUT BENCHMARK...
Benchmark is a monthly publication dedicated to security technology. The only publication of its type, Benchmark is totally focussed on delivering tests, assessments and reviews of products, systems and technologies. It has been designed solely for the needs of security installers, system integrators, specifiers, consultants and security managers involved in making buying decisions relating to products and systems. Benchmark is the fastest growing publication in the security market today!

Benchmark covers CCTV (of all technology types), access control, intruder detection (internal and external), communications, perimeter protection, locks and locking systems, life-safety systems and cabling/infrastructure products. It also includes peripheral and support products for such systems.

THE TEST PROCESSES

Because of the diversity of products, systems and technologies utilised in the security sector, Benchmark uses a range of different test and assessment processes.

Benchmark Group Tests are an essential part of delivering real-world information. These comparitive tests select products based upon specific criteria, and then pit the devices against each other to see which is best suited to the task. These products deliver a genuine and independent experience of using the actual product. Group tests deliver final ratings for all products included.

Benchmark Professional Tests take a single product and produce an in-depth report, looking at all aspects of installation and performance. This delivers useful unbiased information, and allows installers to 'get under the skin' of a specific device. Professional tests include full ratings for the products.

Benchmark Product Assessments are designed to address products that either have very specific requiremnents such as large sites, or other system elements for integration. They can also address products that are in the R&D stage. Product assessments differ slightly from other tests, in that manufacturers may have some involvement in the test process. However, the reports are independent, honest and unbiased. Product assessments do not carry final ratings.

Benchmark Technology Challenges look at differing technologies and working practices. Although products are involved, the intention is to see the differences between two varied approaches to a similar problem. As the challenges are not product-specific, these do not carry final ratings for the devices involved.

BENCHMARK STATUS

Recommended
Benchmark Recommended Status is awarded to products that undergo the independent testing process and receive an overall rating of 80% or higher. Recommended products have no obvious flaws or performance issues, do not lack credibility and have been designed for simple installation and operation. However, they may have areas which could be improved upon, but not to the extent of jeopardising overall security. These products have strengths and weaknesses, and as a result might not be ideal for all conditions. As such, Recommended status is pertinent to test criteria and the aspects of performance as highlighted in the test.
Outstanding
Benchmark Outstanding Status is awarded to products that undergo independent testing and receive an overall rating of 90% or higher. Products which receive this status are then permitted to use the Outstanding logo, which illustrates they have passed application-specific testing and have reached the very highest standards. Outstanding products are expected to perform to the highest levels, offer credible security functionality, deliver high performance in a diverse range of applications, and have an installation and operational procedure that is not overtly complex. Since Benchmark's launch in 2006, only 11 products have achieved this standard!
Best Buy
Because products and systems in the electronic security industry are varied, there are inevitable price differences between products designed to do the same job. It may be that one device offers a credible level of performance equivalent to its peers, but has more competitive price. Alternatively, the device may have a similar price to its peers, but delivers additional features and functions. In such cases, these products are recognised by the award of Benchmark Best Buy status. The Best Buy status is only awarded to products that have achieved Recommended or Outstanding status.

Benchmark
Microsemi
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Elmdene
G-Tec
Inner Range