Linear launches solution to stop metal thieves

CARLSBAD, Calif.—Linear LLC, a provider of residential and commercial access control solutions, recently launched Copper Cop, a copper theft security solution designed to protect industrial HVAC units from metal thieves, according to a company statement.

The Copper Cop includes a wire harness and spring-loaded clips enclosed in bright yellow warning signage that reads “Protected by Copper Cop.” When anyone tries to disarm the unit, Copper Cop connects to a local siren while also transmitting an alarm signal to a Linear or other security system, which then alerts authorities.

“We've seen countless cases of schools, businesses, churches and construction sites targeted by metal thieves, often because of inadequate security,” said Duane Paulsen, senior vice president of product and market development for Linear, in a prepared statement.

Copper Cop has advantages over existing HVAC metal security solutions as well, according to Linear. Since it is an alarm activation device, licensed security system installers can retrofit existing HVAC units without needing an HVAC installer's license or an electrician's license. Security system installers can install Copper Cop for commercial customers directly, or work with HVAC contractors to install and monitor. Integrating with existing alarm panels is easily accomplished with Linear's wireless Transmitter/Receiver Pair (DXS-31/DXS-702)

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, metal thefts have increased 81 percent since 2008, with copper by far the most frequently stolen material.