ZA200104212B

ZA200104212B - Bi-directional wireless detection system.

Info

Publication number: ZA200104212B
Application number: ZA200104212A
Authority: ZA
Inventors: Raymond J Menard; Curtis E Quady
Original assignee: Royal Thoughts L L C
Priority date: 1998-10-23
Filing date: 2001-05-23
Publication date: 2003-02-24

Description

pr ‘ WO 00/25284 PCT/US99/24968

Bi-directional Wireless Detection System

Field of the Invention

The present invention relates generally to security, alarm or detection systems and wireless systems; and in particular to a bidirectional wireless detection system.

Background

The provision of a security alarm detection system generally requires several components and a rather complex installation. Consequently, most detection systems require professional installation and setup.

Some of the current designs try to integrate many or all of the components and devices in a single enclosure or case. However, much of the complexity and cost remains since most of the devices and components are still in use.

Occasionally a detection system actuates automatic systems such as fire suppression or equipment shutdown, but in order for a detection system to be effective it usually must summon help. Onc approach for summoning help is to annunciate a local alarm that attracts attention. Another is to use a recorded message that is called to a list of phone numbers. Yet another is to use a professional central station monitoring service that receives data signals from the premise. As alarms, false alarms, and the indifference of neighbors increases, voluntary response to an alarm sound has virtually vanished. Hence local alarm annunciation is ineffective for garnering assistance. Indeed, the sound of an alarm has come to be perceived more as a nuisance and annoyance than a cause for attention. In a similar fashion, recorded messages are outlawed in a large number of 911 emergency dispatch centers and counting on reaching someone at home is not reliable. In addition, false alarms make recorded messages an irritation, especially since they are designed to repeat. So recorded messages are likewise considered ineffective. This leaves the use of a professional monitoring service which is inherently expensive and so many properties are left completely unprotected.

As a result, very low market penetration exists for reasons associated with current design. These include, but are not limited to, the requirement for professional design, the requirement for professional installation, and the requirement for professional monitoring. oC

These three reasons make even so called “do-it-yourself” systems relatively poor sellers and even several major consumer electronic companies such as Magnavox, Zenith, Radio Shack and others have had little success or outright failure with an cver the counter, table-top type product. -

Furthermore, for correct installation of a standard security system to a telephone network, some tabletop models require a special phone jack (RJ-31X) installed at the correct location (before any premise equipment is connected to the line) to assure the availability of the phone line. This may require installation by a telephone company or other professional.

In addition, services on the user’s line can interfere with successful alarm transmission, with -——--——-—-touch-tone service; call waiting, -and in the future; Digital Subscriber Line services will make To the connection even more complex.

A related problem is found in the user’s interface with the detection system. In a typical system, the user interacts with the detection system through a device generally known as a keypad. The current keypad designs do not allow the user to roam broadly and one long- range design — the telephone line connection — does not provide for messages to user that are initiated by the system, instead the user independently calls into the system to retrieve messages or interact with the system. Although some alarm systems in use today can initiate a page to a person’s pager, this still does not allow the user to exercise command and control functions in return. There is no single device that allows long-range, bidirectional communication and control of an alarm system.

What is needed in the art is an improved detection system that is friendly to a mobile user, that is easy to install, that is truly portable, and that is inexpensive, without the high costs associated with professional design, expert installation, and monitoring services.

Summary

One skilled in the art will readily recognize that the embodiments described solve all of these problems and many more not mentioned expressly herein.

In one embodiment, the detection system provides, among other things, a personal control panel and a portable detection unit which may be used independently or with a bidirectional communications network for short range and long range control panel and alarm monitoring and control functions. Several variations are provided including cellular, paging, satellite, narrowband PCS, narrowband trunked radio, and other communications systems with conventional and nonconventional protocols.

In one embodiment, the present detection system provides, among other things, the replacement of any or all of the user interface, transmission system, and control panel as ?

Wo oorzssa PCT/US99/24968 listed above, through the use of a long-range, two-way, wireless communication device such ) as a two-way pager. Accordingly, a person who owns a two-way pager or related device, - may, for a much lower cost than is customary, own a detection system by incorporating only an additional paging/detection device as described herein. This embodiment of the system has the advantages, including, but not limited to, simple installation, reliable and secure built-

In signal transmission, long range wireless user interface and long range system status annunciation. Currently, many detection systems communicate with a central station that manages the response function. However, this embodiment of the present system offers yet another advantage by communicating direct to the system owner who may then select the : 10 desired response. In one embodiment, the direct communications are optional so that the owner may select the central station approach or the direct approach without the services of a : central station. Thus, the present system provides, among other things, instant and affordable protection for a wide vanety of applications such as construction sites, vehicles, motel rooms, apartments, and small residential and commercial properties.

Furthermore, in one embodiment, the system incorporates low power components to provide the additional advantage of being able to operate solely on battery power for extended periods of time and not just as an emergency/temporary backup.

Thus, the present system, in various embodiments, offers advantages over a standard detection system which include, but are not limited to: low cost; easy, instantaneous installation by an ordinary consumer; reliable communications without connection to or interruption of the site telephone lines; long range control by the user; long range communication of alarm conditions and other signals to a user; long range wireless communication to a central station included instead of as an option; no requirement for connecting to a central station with its attendant monthly costs, if the user desires to monitor their system themselves; and, no need for a permanent power supply. Thus, the system and its various embodiments offers a portable detection system that can provide protection for a variety of applications including, but not limited to, homcs and businesses, and to applications without power or phone lines like vehicles and construction sites.

This summary is intended to provide a brief overview of some of the embodiments of the present system, and is not intended in an exclusive or exhaustive sense, and the scope of the invention is to be determined by the attached claims and their equivalents.

Description of the Drawings

FIG. 1 is a diagram demonstrating operation of a perscnal control pane! and portable detection unit according to one embodiment of the present system. -

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a portable detector unit according to one embodiment of the present system.

FIG. 3A is a block diagram of a communications module according to one embodiment of the present system.

FIG. 3B is a block diagram of a communications module according to one w= --———--- embodiment of the present system:- -- ~~ ~~ mc o-oo sm nse -

FIG. 3C is a block diagram of a communications module according to one embodiment of the present system. ’

FIG. 4 1s a block diagram of a personal control panel according to one embodiment of the present system. ’

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing various communication modes of different components of one detection system according to one embodiment of the present system.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a user controlling their detection system from a distance, according to one embodiment of the present system.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing the components of a basic security system, according to one embodiment of the present system.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing the passing and processing of messages from the detection system to remote users.

FIG. 9 is a table depicting a sample message splitting or parsing strategy for parsing messages using the short message feature of ReFLEX™ (a Motorola Trademark) networks.

Detailed System Description

This detailed description provides a number of different embodiments of the present system. The embodiments provided herein are not intended in an exclusive or limited sense, and variations may exist in organization, dimension, hardware, software, mechanical design and configuration without departing from the claimed invention, the scope of which is provided by the attached claims and equivalents thereof.

The present system provides many benefits, including but not limited to, low cost, easy installation, limited power requirements and wireless operation and signal transmission.

Many other benefits will be appreciated by those skilled in the art upon reading and understanding the present description.

E * WO 00/25284 PCT/US99/24968

FIG. 1 shows one example of a premises 30, such as a house, garage, yard, warehouse, ) vehicle or any fixed, portable, or mobile location or structure intended for detection monitoring. A Portable Detection Unit 20 (“PDU 20”) is located in or on the premises 30 for detection or monitoring of one or more events or conditions. Detection of events and status of the PDU 20 is communicated to Personal Control Panel 10 (“PCP 10"). PCP 10 is shown “off premises” but may be used “on premises” as well. The PCP 10 is useful for monitoring the condition of the PDU 20 and for reception of detected events. PCP 10 is also useful for, among other things, transmitting information to PDU 20 for the purposes of either arming the

PDU 20, disarming PDU 20, and/or cancelling an alarm deemed false by the user of PCP 10.

In one embodiment, PCP 10 and PDU 20 communicate using a short range communication device which 1s dedicated for such communications and which also may include a limited range, such as approximately that of the premises. Other short range embodiments are possible without departing from the present system. In one embodiment, PCP 10 and PDU 20 communicate using a combination of short range communications and long range communications, depending on the distance of PCP 10 from PDU 20. In yet another embodiment, PCP 10 and PDU 20 communicate using a long range communication system, even 1f the communications are conducted in proximity. Such a system incorporates an existing wireless communications network, such as a cellular network, satellite network, : paging network, narrowband PCS, narrowband trunk radio, or other wireless communication network. Combinations of such networks and other embodiments may be substituted without departing from the present system.

FIG. 2 shows one embodiment of a PDU 20 which includes a communications module 200, a control 202, one or more detectors 204, and power 206. In one embodiment

PDU 20 is a self powered detector capable of communications with a PCP 10 in one embodiment, a wireless communications network (not shown in FIG. 2) in another embodiment, or both a PCP 10 and a wireless communications network in yet another embodiment. Other embodiments and combinations are possible without departing from the present system.

In the PDU 20 shown in FIG. 2, there is a detector 204 which detects events, including, but not limited to, motion detection, temperature detection, water detection, vibration detection, breakage detection, smoke detection, carbon monoxide detection, and BB proximity detection. Other detectors or combinations of detectors may be used without departing from the present system. In various embodiments, control 202 coordinates communications between the communications module 200 and the outside worid (such as

PCP 10 or a wireless communication network, for example). Control 202 may also process. instructions received by communications module 200 regarding arming the PDU 20, disarming PDU 20, and cancellation of alarms, to name a few operations. With control 202, several operations may be performed using multiple detectors.

In one embodiment, the PDU 20 includes an output module 208 which provides control outputs to auxiliary devices and appliances 210. In one embodiment, the auxiliary - -- —-- -devices and appliances include building appliances such-as heating, ventilation, and air oo condition, or home appliances such as a coffee pot. The outputs may be used to actuate an audible or visual annunciator in the premise such as an alarm. In other applications the outputs may be connected to appliances to provide actuation or control. The outputs may be signaled by changes in voltages, impedance, current, magnetic field, electromagnetic energy such as radio frequency signals, infrared signals or optical signals, and audible or other forms of mechanical energy. The outputs may be direct changes of state, analog, or digital in form.

Several embodiments are possible, and the examples given herein are not intended in a limiting or restrictive sense. The output module may be activated and controlled by the PCP 10 or the control 202, or by the actuation of the detector 204 or a combination of these.

In one embodiment the PDU 20 is self powered. In one embodiment the PDU 20 is powered using an auxiliary power supply. In one embodiment the PDU 20 is charged using an auxiliary power supply.

FIG. 3A, FIG. 3B and FIG. 3C demonstrate a variety of short range and long range communications modules 200 in various embodiment examples. For instance, in FIG. 3A, the communication modules 200 includes a short range module, such as a bidirectional short range communication system with a network module. The network module may be used either for long range communications over a wireless communications network or for short range communications where the network is also used. Such a system may include programmable or automatically selecting electronics to decide whether to conduct communications between the PDU 20 and the outside world using the short range module or the network module. In one embodiment the system may employ different portions of the network to provide short range, intermediate range, or long range network connections, depending on the distance between the PDU and any receiving component of the system, such as PCP or central station. In one such embodiment, the network automatically adjusts for different required transmission distances.

n WO 00/25284 PCT/US99/24968

In one embodiment, the network module is a cellular communications module. In one ) embodiment, the network module is a paging module, for example, a two-way paging module. In one embodiment the network module is a satellite module. In one embodiment the network module is a wideband or narrowband PCS module. In one embodiment the

S network module is a wideband or narrowband trunk radio module. Other modules are possible without departing from the present system. In one embodiment, the network module supports multiple network systems, such as a cellular module and a two-way paging module, for example. In such embodiments, the system may prefer one form of network communications over another and may switch depending on a variety of factors such as - 10 available service, signal strength, or types of communications being supported. For example, the cellular module may be used as a default and the paging module may take over once cellular service is either weak or otherwise unavailable. Other permutations are possible without departing from the present system.

FIG. 3B shows an embodiment including a network module. The variations in embodiments of network modules and uses of each described above apply here as well. : | FIG. 3C shows an embodiment where a short range communications module is used : for conducting communications between the PDU 20 and the outside world. Any conventional and nonconventional bidirectional short range communications may be employed for short range communications.

FIG. 4 shows a block diagram of one embodiment of a PCP 10 having : communications module 400, control 402, I/O 404 and power 406. In one embodiment, the

PCP 10 has a counterpart communications module to PDU 20 so that the communications are possible using the same communication means. For example, if PDU 20 has a network module and a short range module, as shown in FIG. 3A, then PCP 10, in this embodiment, includes a network module and a short range module, capable of supporting bidirectional communications between PDU 20, PCP 10, and possibly a wireless communication network.

In other embodiments, the PCP 10 need not have counterpart communications modules 400 to those in PDU 20.

Control 402 of PCP 10 is used to coordinate instructions entered on 1/0 404 for transmission to the PDU 20 using communication module 400. In one embodiment I/O 404 is a keypad for entering instructions with a display for viewing status information. In one BN embodiment an audio indicator is used to signal a detected event. In one embodiment a visual indicator is used to signal a detected event. In one embodiment a vibration indicator is used to signal a detected event. In one embodiment separate indicators are provided for a plurality of detection functions. - }

In one embodiment, the power supply of PCP 406 is used to power the device. In one embodiment, the PCP 10 is powered using an auxiliary power supply. In one embodiment the PCP 10 1s charged using an auxiliary power supply. ] FIG. 5 is a diagram demonstrating different communication modes possible with the present system according to one embodiment. In this figure PDU 501 at premises A may -.. --.—.- communicate over a wireless.-communication network 530 to transceive signals relating to or detected events with central station 540 or PCP 512. IfPCP 512 is in range for short range communications, then PCP 512 may receive signals directly from a PDU, such as PDU 502 ’ shown at premises B in FIG. 5.

PCP 512 may also communicate with other PDUs and with other PCPs, such as PCP 513. In FIG 5 the communications between PCP 512 and PCP 513 are not shown over network 530, however, such communications are possible in various embodiments of the present system. In like manner, PDUs may communicate with multiple PCPs, not all possessing identical communication modules. Inter-protocol and inter-network communication may be managed separately, for example, both paging and cellular networks ] and modules communicate with each other through an IP-based protocol, such as over the

Internet.

In one embodiment, PCP 513 is programmable to assume the identity of another PCP, such as PCP 512. When PCP 513 assumes the identity of PCP 512, it acts as if it were PCP 512 to the extemal world. One application where this is particularly useful is for when the native PCP becomes disabled or failed to operate. In this case, another PCP with the proper authorization and access code is used to perform any monitoring and/or control function.

There are several methods of assuming identity: In one embodiment, PCP 512 and PCP 513 are part of a trusting domain of a network. In another embodiment, PCP 512 and PCP 513 are friends in the sense of object methodologies. In another embodiment, PCP 513 assumes the identity of PCP 512 by entering a certain security code, such as a password. In another embodiment, PCP 513 includes an alias of PCP 512, where aliases of PCP 512 have the same security clearance of access as PCP 512. In another embodiment, PCP 513 is an alias of PCP 512, where aliases of PCP 512 have a predetermined level of security clearance of access of

PCP 512. These examples are not exclusive or exhaustive and other embodiments exist that . do not depart from the present systems and methods.

In one embodiment wireless communication network 530 is a cellular telephone ) network. In another embodiment wireless communication network 530 is a two-way paging network. In one embodiment wireless communication network 530 is a satellite network. In one embodiment wireless communication network 530 is a wideband or narrowband PCS network. In one embodiment wireless communication network 530 is a wideband or narrowband trunk radio network. Other networks are possible without departing from the present system. In one embodiment, wireless communication network 530 supports multiple network systems, such as cellular mode and a two-way paging network, for example. In such embodiments, the system may prefer one form of network communications to another and ~ 10 may switch depending on a variety of factors such as available service, signal strength, or types of communications being supported. For example, the cellular network may be used as the primary nctwork and the paging network may take over once cellular service is either weak or otherwise unavailable. In another embodiment the transmission may originate in onc type of network such as a paging network and terminate in another type of network such as a cellular network. The symbol for wireless communication network 530 is not intended to be limited to literally a single communication tower and may include a plurality of such towers : and associated wired telephone, ISDN, fiber optic, and other communications infrastructures in various combinations. Such systems may employ conventional or specialized protocols without departing from the present system. For example, MOTOROLA Corporation has introduced two way paging protocols such as ReFLEX 25 and ReFLEX 50. Other protocols and wireless communication networks may be employed without departing from the present system.

SECURITY

In the situation where alarms are provided for detected events, the central station 540 may receive such alarms and process them for dispatch assistance 550 from emergency personnel. In one embodiment, false alarms are identified and cancelled prior to transmission to the central station by an operator of a PCP, such as PCP 512 or PCP 513. Systems for alarm cancellation and monitoring are provided in this disclosure and in the patent applications incorporated by reference herein.

In embodiments for security detection, the security industry has developed numerous types of detection devices for monitoring many types of conditions. These detection devices feature an output which changes state upon detection of the event being monitored by the device. - )

One embodiment of the present system uses the output of such detection devices and connects them as an input signal for a two-way, long-range, wireless communicator such as one employing narrowband PCS (two-way paging), cell phone type transmitter, PCS, cellemetry, or other similar device. The detection devices include, but are not limited to, motion detectors, door switches, water sensors, smoke detectors, temperature sensors, or a - - . -.. loop(s) of detection devices to detect a condition or occurrence and provide an output. The B outputs may be signaled by changes in voltages, impedance, current, magnetic field, electromagnetic energy such as radio frequency signals, infrared signals or optical signals, and audible or other forms of mechanical energy. The outputs may be direct changes of state, analog, or digital in form. Several embodiments are possible, and the examples given herein are not intended in a limiting or restrictive sense.

The present system, in several embodiments, provides the signals from the detection devices to the two-way, long-range, wireless communicator instead of connecting them to a security alarm control system.

In one embodiment, the detection system incorporates on-site, a long-range two-way wireless communication devices which are compatible for communications with a two-way wireless communication device that is camried by the system user. The system user then utilizes their communication device to control and receive messages from the detection system. In one embodiment, the on-site communication device may trigger local annunciators like horns or flashing lights or actuate other equipment such as heating lights or mechanical equipment.

FIG. 6. shows one embodiment of the present design in a detection system wherein a motion detector located in a home is connected to a two-way communications device, such as one employing two-way paging communication capabilities. The motion detector provides a signal to the two-way pager when detecting motion. The two-way pager transmits a signal over the paging network to the owner anywhere in the paging network. In one embodiment, if the person carries a two-way pager, then the person may elect to perform a function in response to the detected event, for example to disarm the detector by providing the proper command to the motion detector over the two-way paging network. Other embodiments are possible without departing from the present system and a number of functions may be supported by various embodiments of the present detection system.

FIG. 7 shows a block diagram of a detection system according to one embodiment of ) the present system. The block diagram shows the relationship between the communication module 710 and the detector 720 in PDU 770. The two way pager 760 may serve as the PCP in this system. It can be used to monitor alarms, disarm the system and to cancel false ” alarms, among other things. The system provides for optional transmission to other destinations 750, which may be accomplished over a wireless bidirectional communication network, among other things.

Wireless Network

The wireless network employed may be any consumer or proprietary network designed to serve users in range of the detection system, including, but not limited to, a cellular network such as analog or digital cellular systems employing such protocols and designs as PCS, CDMA, TDMA; a paging network such as those employing FLEX™ or

POCSAG™; other data networks such as RAMNET ™ or Ardis™,; proprietary special design networks such as Alarmnet™ or Procom™; or proprietary wireless networks. v 15 In one embodiment the detection system incorporates ReFLEX™ (a Motorola™ trademark) 25 or 50 narrow band PCS products and services (types of wireless technologies used for 2-way pagers). The advantage to this type of technology is that it requires low : power consumption for devices, has inexpensive devices, and provides flexible 2-way communication.

PDU Communications Module

In one embodiment, a pager-like device, such as a device employing pager or other 2- way long range wireless communication capabilities, is connected to one or more detection devices. The interface between these devices is designed to function with standard manufactured detection devices using for example, but not limited to, small control relays or voltage triggers, or a standard communication protocol like RS-232, or built as a single integrated circuit with a detection device and thus requiring no external interface. The relay/voltage trigger embodiment provides a design that can be easily adapted to a wide array of existing detection devices or a circuit loop of devices. The integrated circuit embodiment Bn provides a low net cost if the device is produced in large quantities.

In one embodiment the 2-way pager device located at the protected location is a

CreataLink ™ as manufactured by Motorola company. These are a series of intelligence - enhanced 2-way narrowband PCS modems operating with ReFLEX 25 or ReFLEX 50 protocols. These products are being constantly upgraded and currently being manufactured as

CreatalLink2; soon to be manufactured as CreataLink2XLT. The CreataLink device is incorporated with other sensors and control circuitry as needed to provide one version of a

PDU. The CreataLink devices may be modified and adapted for use with detectors and other ..-- -——— - bidirectional wireless network communication modules, as provided in herein.-

BCP

In one embodiment, the users are in two-way communication with their detection system via a wireless means in order to provide the highest assurance of contact wherever the user may be. This allows the user to be informed of detected events and to control the detection system from in, nearby, or distant from the location of the premises.

The PCP may be of several different designs. For cxample, in one embodiment it may be a standard pager or other one-way wireless device. This would function satisfactorily for a user needing only annunciation of a detected condition and requiring no interactive capability with the detecting portion of the system.

In another embodiment, the PCP may be a “response messaging” capable two way pager. This is service where a two way pager receives a message and optional multiple- choice responses. The user can select the appropriate responses. Such a design may be adapted to provide basic control options related to the detection system and any central station monitoring.

In another embodiment, the PCP may be a programmable two-way paging device such as the Motorola PageWriter™ 2000. This is a class of device that acts as both a two- way pager and a handheld computer also known as a PDA (Personal Digital Assistant).

In another embodiment, the PCP may be a cellular telephone. The PCP and the protected location device may communicate of compatible design may communicate with each other through the use of touch tones, digital information, voice messaging, or cellemetry technologies. The cell phone may be analog or digital in any of the various technologies employed by the cell phone industry such as PCS, or CDMA, or TDMA, or others. The cell phone may have programmable capability such as is found in a Nokia™ 9000 series of ) devices. | -

In embodiments where the user employs standard or adapted paging or cell phones as their PCP, security passwords are entered by using numeric or other keys on a phone. In the- embodiment of a pager, a distinct order of pressing certain keys could provide the equivalent of a security code. For example, 3 short and 1 long on a certain key; or once on key ‘a’, once on key ‘b’, and once more on key ‘a’.

In another embodiment, the PCP is a handheld computer. Many PDAs offer programmable capability and connectivity to various types of long-range wireless networks.

Another example of this type of device is the PalmPilot™ or Palm series of devices manufactured by 3-COM™. In these embodiments where a programmable PCP is used such as a PalmPilot, PageWriter or programmable cell phone, the programmable nature of the devices facilitates the implementation of industry-standard designs and would allow for the development of a program written for the devices.

In another embodiment, a special manufactured device may be manufactured to serve . the needs of the system user. : ] Wireless Canabili

In one embodiment the PCP employs an adaptation of the long-range capability of such devices to create a short-range wireless communication without full network intervention. Because much of the communication between the PCP and the PDU is in relatively close proximity, the wireless devices and/or the network may be adapted to communicate more directly instead of through the entire network. More direct communication speeds up the connection and reduces the burden of traffic in the network.

Such an implementation would have applications beyond the use as described for the detection system herein. It may be used for connecting between nearby users of pagers at the mall, parents to children in the neighborhood and between workers in a workplace.

In one embodiment narrowband PCS is used in two-way paging networks. For example using ReFLEX 25 or 50 protocols or similar services, nearby pager devices may communicate more directly between devices, rather than having to pass a message through the entire network. There are several alternative embodiments of this as detailed below.

In one embodiment, paging devices are modified to communicate directly with each other. Since ReFLEX protocols normally use different frequencies for transmission and - reception to and from the network, the devices may not be used without some modification.

For example, the transmission on frequency “a” by one paging device would not be recejved by another paging device expecting to receive on frequency “b”. Therefore, in one g embodiment the transmitting paging device may change its frequency before sending direct to . another device. This is accomplished automatically or as a manual switch, either in software -.- --— -- -orothemwise.- - —— ——-- - : mem se SER : :

In another embodiment, the transmission is routed to the first tower or just into the oo 10 local network. Most paging carriers use satellites for transmission to and from localized areas. In this embodiment, traftic may avoid the satellite portion of the route and save traffic burden there. ] In any of the previous embodiments of this section, the network is able to supervise traffic for billing and other purposes. In addition, in these embodiments, messages may be - 15 tagged as “direct connect” for routing purposes. See the information on messaging described herein.

In another embodiment, a separate short range wireless system is incorporated into a unified device employing both a short range wireless system and a long range wireless system. In this embodiment, a key fob type of device such as though currently used for unlocking automobiles and disarming detection systems is combined with a long range wireless device such as those described herein. This embodiment affords the advantage of a no-service-fee wireless connection for nearby use and a service-fee wireless network for long- range use.

PCP with other Manufactured Systems

The various PCP design embodiments described herein may benefit the system described herein and also many other security, alarm, detection and control systems manufactured presently and in the past, rather than the PDU described herein. For example, in an embodiment using a two-way paging network, a Motorola PageWriter™ 2000 with an alarm program, may function as the user interface, while a CreataLink™ 2XT may provide the connection to the security, alarm, detection or control system as manufactured currently.

In one embodiment, the CreataLink™ may be connected directly to a manufacturer’s

E WO 00/3584 PCT/US99/24968 system’s control panel using the I/O signals, the RS232 or TTL serial interface, or it may be ) connected using these ports through a separate interface board.

For example, in the security alarm industry, some alarm panels support control functions with simple I/O signals, some support RS232 or other serial interfaces, and many have a proprietary serial connection available for remote keypad control. In another embodiment with a custom interface board or with adapted programming in the alarm panel a device such as the CreatalLink™ is connected to the alarm control panel. These teachings are applicable to all of the major security industry manufacturers of alarm control equipment, such as Ademco™, ITI ™, DSC™, Napco™, Radionics™, DMP™, and many others. - 10 Because of the tremendous variability of manufactured security, alarm, detection and control systems, and the range of PCPs, as described herein, available to control these systems, the details of each and every specific design would be virtually endless. Hence, the embodiments provided herein are not intended in an exclusive or limited sense, and variations may exist in organization, dimension, hardware, software, mechanical design and configuration without departing from the claimed invention, the scope of which is provided by the attached claims and equivalents thereof. tion T : n { Conditi

The design of the detection and control system with its low power requirements and bidirectional wireless communication capabilities makes it suited to mobile applications as well as the fixed applications previously discussed. However, the response required for a mobile application often requires knowledge of where the premises have moved. For example, in protecting vehicles such as automobiles, trucks, and boats, the protected item may have moved.

In one embodiment of the detection system, a GPS receiver is incorporated and the system transmits GPS coordinates along with the detection signals. In another embodiment of the detection system, other types of coordinates are transmitted such as with LORAN.

In one embodiment the user device may incorporate mapping capabilities for locating the mobile unit. In one embodiment the mapping capabilities may be resident in the user device or in another embodiment the maps may be downloaded from a central storage facility.

In another embodiment a directional message could be displayed showing which direction BB and/or distance the detection signal emanated from. Such a coordinate may be updated from time to time.

In one embodiment, the software in the PDU, the PCP, and the network is adapted to deliver the standard features of a typical detection, alarm, security, or detection system.

These features are currently common to most manufacturers today, including ITI, Ademco,

Napco, and others. Examples of these features include but are not limited to: ® system on/off (home-away-off, arm-disarm), ® delay zones, meme - ---- @—bypass/force arm, — EE EI - : - ® restore, ® opening and closing by user, : ® prevention of multiple alarm transmissions in a specified period, ® user control of system related functions,

Thus, such embodiments provide features standard to a security alarm system without requiring a separate control panel to provide them. In addition, some of the embodiments provide enhancements to the standard features. One reason for the improvements is that a system user can provide interactive management functions of their system from the PCP regardless of where they are located. No longer do they need to be at the protected location.

Some of the functions are discussed below, however, others exist and the following is not intended to be a limiting of exhaustive discussion of functions.

Zone Bypass. This feature allows a user to turn off the transmission of signals for a particular detector or group of detectors. This is done for the following common reasons:

I. When the user is on site and wants to retain some protection, for example intrusion detection, but wants to turn off some interior motion detectors. 2. When the person is prone to accidentally trigger a detector. For example, as listed in item 1, perhaps there is an interior motion detector downstairs, but they sleep upstairs; they would prefer to have the motion detector on while sleeping, but often forget and trip the detector when they come down in the morning. 3. When a person is first learning to use their system, sometimes the entire system is bypassed so emergency agencies are not dispatched. 4. When a zone seems to be prone to false-alarms and the source of the signals is not determined or repaired. The zone may send a real or a false alarm.

One problem with zone bypass is that it is an all-or-nothing design. The zone(s) or ’ detector(s) is either transmitting signals or not. In one embodiment of the present system, a new type of condition, which we herein label “zone confirmation” is supported by the system.

Conditions 2,3,4 above would be better served in many cases if the user was notified of an detected event and may then optionally “confirm” the condition before it was transmitted to the central station. This confirmation may be required, or it may have a built in delay period where an opportunity to cancel would be given before the alarm was transmitted. The user’s confirmation or lack thereof may be transmitted to the central station and add valuable information to the response effort. - 10

Arm/Disarm Confirmation. When a user armed or disarmed their system (turned their system on or off), confirmation of the on or off is sent back to the PCP that they are carrying and doing the activation from. This is currently not possible even with the short-range wireless devices used in the industry currently. : Delay Zones. Delay zones are built into detection control panels to provide time for a : user to enter their code into a keypad or other device and then enter or exit the premise before the protection is activated. Because upon entry, this delay is activated, there is a desire to make the delay short. Otherwise an intruder might have time to tamper with or destroy the system before it transmits a signal.

However, delay zones may be built into the PCP instead. This would allow a user to optionally cancel or confirm an event condition before the network transmitted it forward to a central station or other site. As a result, the system would be effectively instantaneous, that is — continuously armed without delay zones, allowing an intruder no delay time to defeat a system, but allowing a user an opportunity to disarm the system.

Alarm Verification/Cancellation. Due to the large number of false alarms associated with security systems, it is ordinary for central monitoring centers to verify alarms with users before dispatching agencies. Since this detection system uses a method whereby the user can be in contact with the central monitoring station anywhere they are located, the verification could occur via the user’s interface. Hence, an embodiment of the present system may incorporate special alarm verification/cancellation technology as described in U.S.

Provisional Application No. 60/098,270, filed Aug. 28, 1998 and U.S. Patent Application

Serial No. 09/219,737, filed Dec. 22, 1998, both of which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. | - )

Other embodiments are possible and the examples provided herein are intended to be demonstrative and not exclusive or exhaustive of the present invention, which is determined by the scope of the appended claims and the full range of equivalents to which they are - entitled. -- - - System-Messaging - -- EE :

Capcodes

In one embodiment using NPCS (Narrowband PCS) as the wireless transmission ’ method, pager capcodes are used tor addressing. Capcodes are the addresses used to identify individual addresses and there is a unique capcode for cach pager or common pager address.

In common addressing — pagers can hold more than one capcode for broadcast messaging — a common capcode identifies a group of users. For example, capcode 978654903 may uniquely indicate Joe Smith’s pager while another capcode may also reside on Joe Smith’s pager for broadcast receipt of the news or weather which is received simultaneously by multiple users with the same broadcast capcode. Therefore, capcodes are used to identify an individual user or group of users and likewise identify the detection system that is associated with the users.

It is important that the data is received rapidly both to enhance protection and to help to provide rapid verification in order to cancel alarms. The transmission of data in this embodiment is done in a rapid burst method. The reason for this is as follows: As available in NPCS transmissions, for example with FLEX 25 and 50 — two of the protocols currently available for NPCS services — there is a short message availability (11 bit) that allows for very rapid transmission. In cellular there is a technology called Cellemetry or Microburst that accomplishes a similar function. This short and rapid messaging is a feature of many large scale wireless networks. The short message is typically available to be sent immediately and rapidly and often at a lower cost. For example, in FLEX 25, longer messages require time to set up transmission frames. By using a short burst transmission, as much as 20 seconds or more may be saved in the transmission time requirement. This delay is of serious consequence because in the security industry, life and property may be in peril. In addition,

©. wooonsiss PCT/US99/24968 delays make it difficult to coordinate the rapidly proceeding dispatch between the central station and the users. However, the short message has constraints of its own: it is a short BN message. Therefore, the message must be encoded. A solution for encoding in FLEX related services is presented later.

Hence, in one embodiment a short predetermined digitally encoded message is transmitted from the detection system to the PCP carried by remote users and/or to the central station.

At the central station a look up table is employed to decode the message. In a similar fashion, a look up table may be employed by the PCP to decode the message. FIG. 8 shows one such example of a look up table.

Message Decoding in the Network

Usually transmission networks are designed to simply receive a message and transport it to a destination. The network doesn’t “read” the message or “act” on it except to read an address and send it to the destination. However, as networks become imbued with enhanced : 15 computing capability, they can read more of the message and process messaging far beyond mere transport. : Therefore, as an alternative embodiment, the look up table may reside in the network and the message may be decoded by the network before it is delivered to any destination.

This is a good way for delivering a message to the PCPs unable to decode messages such as limited capability pagers or cell phones. The encoded burst message would then be decoded in the network and a user would be delivered an English or other language message according to the interpretation or look up table.

The effect 1s that an encoded burst message that looks like “00101000111” may be decoded in the network and read out “Burglary Area 4” on a pager. The same numeric message may be decoded after receipt in a more sophisticated user device or after receipt at the central station.

Alternative Message Paths

One embodiment of this design uses a single two way wireless device carried by the users instead of one device to receive the message and another to transmit the verification BN information to the central station. This saves cost and simplifies design. However, two separate devices may be used.

In other embodiments, the notification of the remote users may be accomplished simultaneously with the central station or instantly relayed by the central station or any other relay point.

Again, in one embodiment, the transmission of data may be done in a rapid burst method. In this process, a short predetermined digitally encoded message is transmitted to the central station from the user device.

Alternatively, longer messages can be employed, but they may take longer to be -- --—— received oo - : EE EE SE

In the event that NPCS is the selected wireless transmission method, a standard two way pager using response paging is used as the response device carried by the user to communication/control with the detection system and to the central station.

In this design option a responsc message can cither be presaved on the two way pager or can be transmitted to the pager. Since time is important, a presaved response message 1s the best solution since it does not require any additional transmission time.

Other custom designed devices and devices using other wireless technologies can also be used to accomplish the same effect.

Encoding

Encoding is a straightforward process. The following encoding example is offered for the use of NPCS FLEX 25 two way pager wireless services.

In FLEX 25 an 11 bit message (an 11 bit message is eleven zeros or ones) is available for a burst transmission. This message is then split or parsed into registry sections for the purpose of sending a message. The table (FIG. 9) describes sample registers and their potential purpose.

As a result a message like “001/0111/0101” (slashes indicate breaks in the register of the look up table and are not transmitted) can be interpreted to mean: send a message to Joe

Smith’s pager capcode 957843756 reading “Fire area 5” and send a message “001/0111/0101” to Central Station A and send “001/0111/0101”" Central Station B if

Central Station A is not receiving.

The above register size, order, and meaning can be changed to meet the needs of individual network designs. However, the purpose and use remains unchanged. Similar encoding registers can be used in any wireless transmission short bursting format.

New Technologies

The above embodiments may be implemented using Wireless Access Protocol _ (WAP). The above embodiments may also be implemented using Bluetooth standard. One implementation includes allowing the plugging of a Bluetooth module to allow wireless connectivity from wireless devices to a variety of consumer products.

Conclusion

Other embodiments are possible and the examples provided herein are intended to be demonstrative and not exclusive or exhaustive of the present invention, which is determined by the scope of the appended claims and the full range of equivalents to which they are entitled.

Claims

We claim:

I. A method, comprising: detecting a security event using a detection device; transmitting a signal based on the event using a long-range, bidirectional, wireless network using a wireless transmission device coupled to the detection device; and receiving the signal at a remote location using a personal programmable communication device.
2. A method according to claim 1, further comprising transmitting a control signal from the personal programmable communication device, the control signal adapted to control the detection device.
3. A method according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the transmission device includes a wireless modem or smart-modem adapted to communicate using the wireless network.
4, A method according to any of claims 1-3, further comprising coordinating a dispatch process at a central station based on a si gnal transmitted from the personal programmable communication device in response to the security event.
S. A method according to any of claims 1-4, further comprising remotely confirming the security event.
6. ! A method according to any of claims 1-5, comprising transmitting an encoded burst message between the detection device and the personal programmable communication device.
7. A method according to any of claims 1-6, wherein the wireless network -— includes a paging network, a two-way paging network, or a cell phone network. 22 AMENDED SHEET
8. A method according to any of claims 1-7, further comprising sending the signal to a remote central monitoring station.
9. A method according to claim 8, further comprising sending the signal to the remote central station using a telephone network.
10. A method according to any of claims 1-9, further comprising entering a security password using the communication device.
11. A method according to claim 10, wherein entering a security password includes pressing a plurality of keys in a predetermined manner.
12. A method according to any of claims 1-11, wherein voice generated information is provided to the user.
13. A method according to any of claims 1-12, further comprising providing voice generated information to the user.
14. A method according to any of claims 1-13, wherein the communication device includes a GPS receiver and further comprising generating direction information or distance information relative to the detection device.
15. A method according to any of claims 4 or 8, further comprising delaying a predetermined period of time before communicating with the central monitor station.
16. A method according to claim 15, further comprising receiving confirmation before transmitting the signal to a central monitor station.
17. A method according to claim 15, further comprising transmitting a confirm message to a central monitor station. oC
18. A method according to any of claims 1-17, further comprising using 23 AMENDED SHEET

: message interpretation within a transmission network to coordinate addressing and retransmission of messages or to handle various messages differently so that the type of message changes its transmission path, handling, or encoding protocol.
19. A method according to any of claims 1-18, further comprising using capcodes to identify, or communicate with, any number of and any combination of a detection system, a personal communication device, and the central station.
20. A method according to any of claims 1-19, further comprising sending a presaved message or presaved response message, in response to the security event.
21. A method according to claim 20, further comprising using message interpretation within the wireless network to coordinate addressing and retransmission of messages or to handle various messages differently so that the type of message changes its transmission path, handling, or encoding protocol.
22. A method comprising: detecting a security event using a security detector; communicating the security event to a user using an interface device; receiving confirmation of the security event from the user; and transmitting an alarm signal based on the confirmation to a central response center.
23. A method according to claim 22, wherein receiving confirmation includes receiving a voice command and transmitting a voice command si gnal based on the voice command. :
24. A method according to any of claims 22 or 23, further comprising displaying data on a user accessible screen.
25. A method according to any of claims 22-24, further comprising 24 AMENDED SHEET illuminating a light to display a message.
26. A method according to any of claims 22-25, further comprising receiving data entered via a keypad on a user accessible panel, the data including a confirmation of the signal.
27. A method according to any of claims 22-26, further comprising generating a control signal based on data entered via the keypad.
28. A detection system comprising: a long-range, bidirectional wireless transmission device; one or more detection devices, each device coupled to the transmission device and adapted for generating a signal based on a detected event; a long-range, bidirectional, wireless network compatible with the wireless transmission device; and a first wireless communication device operable by a remote user and
29. A system according to claim 28, wherein the transmission device is coupled to a local annunciator, equipment actuator or equipment controller.
30. A system according to any of claims 28 or 29, wherein the transmission device or the detection device includes a battery power supply.
31. A system according to any of claims 28-30, wherein the first wireless communication device includes a control adapted to control the transmission device or the detection device.
32. A system according to any of claims 28-31, wherein the transmission device includes a wireless modem or smart-modem adapted to communicate using the wireless network.
33. A system according to any of claims 28-32, wherein the first wireless 25 AMENDED SHEET communication device includes a control selected from the group comprising power, arm, delay zone, bypass/force arm, restore, open, close, prevention of multiple alarm transmissions in a specified period, and auxiliary control.
34. A system according to any of claims 28-33, wherein the first wireless communication device includes a user-operable control to cancel a dispatch response.
35. A system according to any of claims 28-34, wherein the wireless transmission device or the first wireless communication device includes an encoder adapted to format data for burst transmission.
36. A system according to any of claims 28-35, further comprising a capcode decoder to identify the detection device or the wireless communication device.
37. A system according to any of claims 28-36, wherein the wireless network includes a paging network, a two-way paging network, a REFLEX 25 paging network, a REFLEX 50 paging network, or a cell phone network.
38. A system according to any of claims 28-37, wherein the first wireless communication device includes a keypad adapted for entering a security password.
39. A system according to any of claims 28-38, wherein the wireless — transmission device includes a Creatalink™ product.
40. A system according to any of claims 28-39, further comprising a GPS receiver coupled to the transmission device.
41. A system according to any of claims 28-40, further comprising a second wireless communication device adapted for receiving the signal.
42. A system according to claim 41, wherein the second communication 26 AMENDED SHEET device is adapted to communicate with the first communication device.
43. Asystem according to any of claims 41 or 42, wherein the second communication device is adapted to assume an identity of the first communication device.
44. A system according to any of claims 41-43, wherein the second communication device is adapted to assume an identity of the first communication device upon entry of a security code.
45. A system according to any of claims 28-44, wherein the first wireless communication device includes a one-way wireless device, a pager, a two-way pager, a programmable two-way paging device, a Motorola PageWriter 2000 based device, a personal digital assistant, an analog cellular phone, a digital cellular phone, or a hand-held computer,
46. A system according to any of claims 28-45, further including a GPS transmitter coupled to the transmission device to transmit location information.
47. A system according to any of claims 28-46, wherein the first wireless communication device is adapted to display a map relative to the location information.
48. A system according to any of claims 28-47, wherein the first wireless communication device is adapted to display a route.
49. A system according to any of claims 28-48, wherein the first wireless communication device includes a control to allow a user to confirm the signal.
50. A system according to any of claims 28-49, wherein the first wireless 3 communication device includes a control to arm or disarm the detection device.
51. A system according to any of claims 28-5 0, wherein the wireless network 27 : AMENDED SHEET

: includes a look-up table, wherein the wireless network 1s adapted to use the look-up table to decode an encoded message.
52. A system according to any of claims 28-51, further including a microphone adapted for receiving and executing a voice command.
53. Asystem according to any of claims 28-52, further including a display screen.
54. Asystem according to any of claims 28-53, wherein the communication device includes a light adapted for displaying a message.
55. A detection system comprising: a personal control panel; a portable detection unit coupled to a security alarm system; and a bi-directional communication network wirelessly coupling the portable detection unit to the personal control panel.
S56. A system according to claim 55, wherein the personal control panel includes a low-power device.
57. A system according to any of claims 55 or 56, wherein the personal control panel includes a one-way pager, a two-way pager, or a cell phone.
58. A system according to any of claims 55-57, wherein the personal control panel includes a Palm Pilot™ a Palm Professional™, a Palm IIT™ 3 Palm Pilot™ series device, a PageWriter™2000, a PageWriter™ series device, a programmable pager, a Nokia™ 9000, or other Nokia™ programmable device.
59. A system according to any of claims 5 5-58, wherein the personal control panel includes a two-way pager adapted for response message paging.
60. A system according to any of claims 55-59, wherein the communication 28 ; AMENDED SHEET network is compatible with BlueTooth standard.
61. A system according to any of claims 55-60, further comprising a fixed coordinate generator coupled to the portable detection unit.
62. A system according to any of claims 55-61 , wherein the network is : compatible with cellular communications, paging communications, two-way paging communications, satellite communications, wideband Personal Communication System (PCS) communications, narrowband PCS communications, wideband trunk radio communications, or narrowband trunk radio communications.
63. A system according to any of claims 55-62, wherein the personal control panel or the portable detection unit includes a wideband Personal Communication System (PCS) module or a narrowband PCS module, wherein the PCS module includes a control channel, and wherein the control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths.
64. A system according to any of claims 55-63, wherein the communication network includes a short-range communication network and a long-range communication network selected from the group comprising a cellular network, a satellite network, a paging network, a narrow-band Personal Communication : Systems (PCS) network, and a narrow-band trunk radio network.
65. A system according to any of claims 55-64, wherein the communication network includes a control channel, and wherein the control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths.
66. A system according to any of claims 55-65, wherein the personal control panel is adapted to monitor the status of the portable detection unit, arm or disarm the portable detection unit or selectively cancel an alarm from the portable detection unit. 29 AMENDED SHEET
67. A system according to any of claims 55-66, wherein the portabie detection unit detects a motion event, a breakage event, a smoke condition, a carbon monoxide condition or a proximity condition.
68. A portable detection unit comprising: a wireless communications module; a controller coupled to the communications module; a detector coupled to the controller; and an output module to provide a control signal.
69. A portable detection unit according to claim 68, wherein the output module is adapted to couple with an appliance, wherein the appliance includes a home appliance or a building appliance, wherein the home appliance includes a coffee pot, and wherein the building appliance includes a heating unit, a ventilation unit, or an air conditioning unit.
70. A portable detection unit according to any of claims 68 or 69, wherein the output module is coupled to operate an audible or visual annunciator.
71. A portable detection unit according to any of claims 68-70, wherein the control signal is encoded with a voltage, impedance, current, magnetic field, electromagnetic energy, radio frequency signal, infrared signal, optical signal, audio signal, or mechanical energy signal.
72. A portable detection unit according to any of claims 68-71, adapted to be self-powered or powered by an auxiliary power supply or charged by an auxiliary power supply.
. 73. A portable detection unit according to any of claims 68-72, wherein the communications module includes a short-range module or a network module.
74. A portable detection unit according to claim 73, wherein the network module includes circuitry or programming to automatically select a 30 AMENDED SHEET communication range.
75. A portable detection unit according to any of claims 73 or 74, wherein the network module includes circuitry or programming to select a communication protocol.
76. A portable detection unit according to any of claims 64-75, wherein the detector includes a motion detector, a door switch, a water sensor, a smoke detector, or a temperature sensor. :
77. A portable detection unit according to any of claims 64-76, wherein the wireless communications module includes a CreataLink device, a Creatal ink? device, or a CreatalLink2XLT device.
78. A personal control panel comprising: a communications module; a controller coupled to the communications module; and an input/output module.
79. A personal control panel according to claim 78, wherein the communications module includes a short-range module or a network module.
80. A personal control panel according to claim 79, wherein the network module includes circuitry or programming to automatically select a : communication range.
81. A personal control panel according to any of claims 79 or 80, wherein the network module includes circuitry or programming to select a communication protocol.
82. A personal control panel according to any of claims 78-81, wherein the input/output module includes a keypad, a display, an audio indicator to indicate a detected event, a visual indicator to indicate a detected event, or a vibration 31 AMENDED SHEET

: indicator to indicate a detected event.
83. A personal control panel according to any of claims 78-82 adapted to be self-powered, powered by an auxiliary power supply or charged by an auxiliary power supply.
84. A personal contro] panel according to any of claims 78-83, wherein the communications module is compatible with a cellular communications network, a paging network, a two-way paging network, a satellite network, a wideband : Personal Communication System (PCS) network, a narrowband PCS network, a wideband trunk radio network, or a narrowband trunk radio network.
85. A personal control panel according to any of claims 78-84, wherein the communications module is compatible with ReFLEX 25, ReFLEX 50, PCS, CDMA, TDMA, POCSAG, FLEX, RAMNET, Ardis, Alarmnet, Procom, Cellemetry, Microburst, or CDPD.
86. A personal control panel according to any of claims 78-85, wherein the personal control panel includes a light adapted for displaying a message.
87. A personal control panel according to any of claims 78-86, wherein the personal control panel includes a function key for selecting a predetermined function.
88. A system substantially as shown and described.
89. A device substantially as shown and described.
90. A method substantially as shown and described.
91. A portable detection unit comprising: a communications module; a controller coupled to the communications module; 32 AMENDED SHEET

ST at least one detector coupled to the control component; and an output module to output at least one control signal.
92. The portable detection unit of claim 91, wherein the communications module includes a network module.
93. The portable detection unit of claim 91 or 92, wherein the network module includes a combination of a cellular communications module, a paging module, a two-way paging module, a satellite module, a wideband Personal Communication System (PCS) module, a narrowband Personal Communication System (PCS) module, a wideband trunk radio module, and a narrowband trunk radio module.
94. The portable detection unit of claim 93, wherein the cellular communications module includes a first control channel, and wherein the first control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the paging module includes a second control channel, and wherein the second control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the two-way paging module includes a third control channel, and wherein the third control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the satellite module includes a fourth control channel, and wherein the fourth control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the wideband Personal Communication System (PCS) module includes afifth control channel, and wherein the fifth control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the narrowband Personal Communication System (PCS) module includes a sixth control channel, and wherein the sixth control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the wideband trunk radio module includes a seventh control channel, and wherein the seventh control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the narrowband trunk radio module includes a eighth control channel, and wherein the eighth control channel includes separate 33 AMENDED SHEET

: frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths.
95. A personal control panel comprising: a communications module; a controller coupled to the communications module; and an input/output module.
96. The personal control panel of claim 95, wherein the communications module includes a network module.
97. The personal control panel of claim 95 or 96, wherein the network module includes a combination of a cellular communications module, a paging module, a two-way paging module, a satellite module, a wideband Personal Communication System (PCS) module, a narrowband Personal Communication System (PCS) module, a wideband trunk radio module, and a narrowband trunk radio module.
98. The personal control panel of claim 97, wherein the cellular communications module includes a first contro] channel, and wherein the first control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the paging module includes a second control channel, and wherein the second control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the two-way paging module includes a third control channel, and wherein the third control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the satellite module includes a fourth control channel, and wherein the fourth control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the wideband Personal Communication System (PCS) module includes a fifth control channel, and wherein the fifth contro] channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the narrowband Personal Communication System (PCS) module includes a sixth control channel, and wherein the sixth control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the wideband 34 AMENDED SHEET

: ’ trunk radio module includes a seventh control channel, and wherein the seventh control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the narrowband trunk radio module includes a eighth control channel, and wherein the eighth control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths.
99. A system comprising: : a first portable detection unit to provide an alarm upon a detection of an event of interest; a first personal control panel adapted to receive the alarm; a central station selectively adapted to receive the alarm; and a bidirectional long-range wireless network to facilitate communication among the first portable detection unit, the first personal control panel, and the central station.
100. The system of claim 99, wherein the cellular communications network includes a first control channel, and wherein the first control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the : paging network includes a second control channel, and wherein the second control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the two-way paging network includes a third control channel, and wherein the third control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the satellite network includes a fourth control channel, and wherein the fourth control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the wideband Personal Communication System (PCS) network includes a fifth control channel, and wherein the fifth contro] channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the narrowband Personal Communication System (PCS) network includes a sixth control channel, and wherein the sixth control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths, wherein the wideband trunk radio module includes a seventh contro] channel, and wherein the seventh contro] channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate AMENDED SHEET

. , bandwidths, wherein the narrowband trunk radio network includes a eighth control channel, and wherein the ej ghth control channel includes separate frequencies, separate time slices, or separate bandwidths. 36 AMENDED SHEET