How I Use My System: Jonathan Byrd

Jonathan Byrd, manager of marketing for Dynamark Security Centers, has been with Dynamark for a little more than three years. He and his wife like using the system to play practical jokes, such as unlocking the front door or turning off lights remotely during a scary movie. Byrd spoke with Security Systems News about his home security system in early September.

What kind of system do you have?

The panel is the last iteration of the Qolsys [IQ] Panel � that, combined with a Kwikset door lock, fire and CO detectors, and door/window sensors for the ground floor on my two story house. And then, [it's] all powered through Alarm.com and monitored by our Dynamark TMA central stations.

Why this particular set up?

I was shown all of the panel options that I could have installed, and I chose the Qolsys IQ panel because it was entirely touch screen and that was appealing. I wanted something that was easy to use, didn't really have to learn a whole lot to use it. After also seeing the remote access that came with it, through the mobile apps, I knew that I would be interested in those capabilities as well.

What is one aspect of your system that you wouldn't want to live without?

Definitely the remote access, because I have small kids. So, being able to arm the system, after the everyday chaos of trying to get everyone outside and to the vehicle every morning, it's simple to get everyone out and then arm the system from the phone. Also, my five year old is able to unlock the door through the lock and if we're carrying the groceries or something like that, he can open the door for us, which is very helpful.

Where do you see security going next? What are some big trends?

Amazon is definitely the wild card. The future of security—I think—is going to be heavily affected by both the DIY market and whatever Amazon ultimately decides to do. They kind of steamroll over most businesses they get into, so it will be very interesting to see what happens there.