Unlocking Alarm Deployments at Large Sites

Since launching new Alarms six months ago, we’ve seen strong demand from organizations that want to deploy our solution at large, expansive sites such as multi-story retail, warehouses, and schools. These sites often require a large number of sensors, keypads, and signaling devices, thus driving up the cost and complexity of installation.

We’re excited to share several updates that simplify large deployments:

• Connecting BK22 keypads via LAN

• Daisy-chaining up to four BE32 expanders per RS-485 on BP52 panel

• An increase from 32 to 160 wireless sensors per hub

• The new BZ32 wireless siren strobe

Unlimited keypads and signaling devices

A common challenge with large site deployments is the high number of entryways, many of which are far away from the alarm panel. Each entryway typically needs a keypad and a signaling device such as a siren or strobe light, resulting in long, expensive wire runs to the panel. 

That’s why we’re excited to introduce the ability to connect BK22 keypads via LAN. Rather than being directly wired to the panel over RS-485, keypads can be PoE-powered and communicate with the BP52 panel over the local network*. This allows for unlimited keypads at a site and easy deployment anywhere with an ethernet drop.

Furthermore, we’re introducing the BZ32 Siren Strobe, which can be deployed wirelessly both indoors and outdoors. Like our wireless sensors, the BZ32 can connect to any wireless hub, such as a nearby BK22 keypad or BE32 expander. With the BZ32, organizations can add deterrence to every entryway without being constrained by wiring costs or the number of relay outputs on the alarm panel.

Increased sensor limits

Large sites also necessitate a large number of sensors at a distance from the alarm panel. To help reduce wiring costs, we’re introducing the ability to daisy-chain up to 4 BE32 expanders, rather than having to wire each expander directly to the alarm panel. This increases the wired sensor limit per panel to 160 while significantly reducing wiring distances – especially in buildings with multiple floors or wings such as department stores and schools.

Lastly, we’re also raising the wireless sensor limit per hub from 32 to 160. This applies not only to the WH52 wireless hub, but also the BP52 panel, BK22 keypad, and BE32 expander, which have built-in wireless hubs.

Pricing and availability

The BZ32 Siren Strobe will be available for $299 starting May 15th. All other features in this blog will be available upon the next firmware update, which will be rolled out starting May 15th.

For a personalized demo or quote, contract your Verkada sales representative or email [email protected].

* BK22 must be on the same LAN as the BP52 or directly connected to a PoE port on the BP52