BENCHMARK TESTING
Recommended
Benchmark Recommended Status is awarded to products that undergo the independent testing process and receive an overall rating of 80% or higher. Products which receive this status are then permitted to use the Recommended logo, which illustrates they have passed application-specific testing and have reached a very high standard.
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.
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 TEST 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.
INTRUDER DETECTION TESTS
TESTS 1 TO 3 OF 3
Professional Test: Honeywell DT7450UK2
Professional Test: Honeywell DT7450UK2

Most intruder technologies are well proven, so the focus is on ease of installation. With this in mind, does Honeywell¹s DT7450UK2 achieve its aims?

Many installers report that the most important element in any installation is time. Th...

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Group Test: Grade 2 Dual Technology Detectors
Group Test: Grade 2 Dual Technology Detectors

Benchmark considers Grade 2 dual technology detectors for ease of installation. The test includes models from Bosch, Cooper Security, Risco, Pyronix, Texecom, Visonic and Optex.

Dual technology detectors are a mainstay of the intruder al...

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Product Assessment: Texecom Ricochet Technology
Product Assessment: Texecom Ricochet Technology

Wire-free technology has not always been welcomed with opened arms. However, things have changed, and Texecom has taken a step forward with its Ricochet technology.

Texecom has launched its professional-grade mesh network wireless platfo...

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PSI