The Vulcan Learning Center
From expert insights to security planning, The Vulcan Learning Center delivers practical guidance, answers to common questions, and deep dives into real-world security topics.

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Top Video Security Camera Pitfalls Businesses Should Avoid
Most video security problems don’t happen because of bad luck. They happen because the system was chosen, installed, or configured without a clear plan. Businesses often buy cameras to “check…
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Key Things Businesses Overlook in Video Security Systems
Most businesses don’t realize how many gaps exist in their video security until an incident happens. The biggest problems usually aren’t about the cameras themselves. They come from unclear goals,…
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How Intrusion Detection Systems Stop Break-Ins Before They Happen
Video Intrusion detection systems (IDS) use sensors, cameras, and AI analytics to detect and deter unauthorized access before it happens. In simple terms, IDS keeps watch for potential intrusions and…
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How AI Surveillance Improves Workplace Safety for Businesses
AI video surveillance is changing how businesses keep people safe. Instead of relying on human guards or manual checks, modern AI cameras actively detect safety risks, from missing PPE to…
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How Vulcan’s Free On-Site Assessment Works (Step-by-Step Guide)
Vulcan’s free on-site assessment is the first step toward a reliable, efficient video security system designed specifically for your facility. It’s not a sales pitch; it’s a professional site evaluation…
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AI Surveillance vs Security Guards: What’s Right for Your Business?
When comparing AI surveillance and traditional security guards, the right solution depends on your business goals, risk profile, and budget. AI systems deliver consistency and 24/7 monitoring, while guards bring…
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Should You Replace Security Guards with Video Surveillance?
Many business owners are asking a critical question: Do we still need on-site security guards in today’s world of intelligent technology? For some, the answer is still yes, but for…
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What Is MOBOTIX? Why We Use It for Reliable, Long-Term Security
MOBOTIX is a German-engineered camera system built for durability, intelligence, and long-term reliability. Too many businesses have been let down by cheap surveillance systems that go offline without warning, fog…
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Why Quality Surveillance and Proactive Maintenance Matter
The bottom line is simple: high-quality surveillance combined with proactive maintenance is the difference between a system that protects you and one that lets you down. Reliable cameras and proactive…
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Wired vs Wireless Security Cameras: What’s Right for Your Property?
Property owners today face a common question when planning or upgrading their surveillance systems: should you choose wired or wireless security cameras? Both options promise safety and visibility, but they…
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Are Wireless Security Cameras Worth It or Is Wired Still Better?
Wireless security cameras are often marketed as an easy, flexible solution for keeping your property safe. But for businesses that depend on reliable security, the reality is very different. While…
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Local vs Cloud-Based Security Systems: How to Choose the Right Fit for Your Business
The core difference between local and cloud-based video security is simple: local systems store footage onsite on a dedicated server, while cloud systems send it over the internet to remote…
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What is AI-Powered Video Surveillance?
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is changing the way businesses think about security. AI-powered video surveillance goes beyond simply recording footage. These systems actively detect, analyze, and respond to events in real…
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How to Define the Scope of Your Premises Security System
Defining the scope of your project is the crucial first step toward purchasing or upgrading a premises security system that actually protects your business and reduces risk. At first glance,…
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How to Plan the Right Video Camera Security System for Your Business
Planning a video camera security system isn’t about picking cameras off a shelf, it’s about designing a tailored solution that protects your people, property, and operations today, while scaling with…
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How Security Cameras Can Help With Hospital Security and Patient Care Monitoring
Recent surveys of emergency room physicians and nurses reveal that half—or more—of ER doctors and nurses have been the subject of violent attacks while on duty. Both groups say the violence is harmful to and interferes with patient care.
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Beyond Surveillance: How Video Security Cameras Are Being Used In Business Operations
Video security cameras today are transforming business operations, not just protecting them. They detect risks, improve safety, streamline workflows, and document compliance, all while cutting the cost and liability of…
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Healthcare Providers Can Use Thermal Cameras as Initial Screening Tool
Thermal imaging technology has evolved dramatically over the past five years. What started as an emergency response tool during the COVID-19 pandemic is now a standard part of health and…
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Thermal Cameras for Industrial Safety and Security
Thermal cameras have become essential tools for modern businesses. Once thought of as niche technology, they now play a critical role in industrial safety, predictive maintenance, and perimeter protection. These…
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Video Security ROI: Can A Security Camera Replace a Security Guard?
security camera technology and software functionality have finally converged so that the system can, today, directly pay for itself in less than a year through reduced security staffing costs. Even better, the “smart camera” system can further boost savings by reducing (or even eliminating) actual incidents and false alarms.
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Security Cameras and Monitoring Services for Alabama Equipment Dealers
Local equipment dealers looking to reduce inventory losses from theft of tractors, UTVs, power sport machines and similar equipment are a growing segment of our customer base.
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Thermal Cameras for Predictive Equipment Maintenance
Machine uptime and consistent quality control remain two of the biggest drivers of profitability in manufacturing. Over the last several years, thermal imaging has shifted from a niche diagnostic tool…
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Using Thermal Cameras to Monitor Water Flow, Water Seepage and Water Quality
Did you know thermal cameras aren’t just for security? They’re increasingly being used worldwide to monitor water flow, groundwater seepage, and water quality. From flood response to fisheries management, thermal…
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Thermal Camera Applications for Recycling and Waste Management Facilities
Recycling facilities, waste management operations, and scrap yards face two persistent risks: fire and theft. Thermal cameras have become one of the most effective tools to mitigate these challenges, helping…
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How Thermal Sensors Work in Video Security Cameras
Thermal security cameras are often misunderstood. They don’t “see” like traditional HD cameras, and they aren’t designed to replace standard video surveillance. Instead, they detect heat differences, making them uniquely…
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New Series on Applications for Sensor-Equipped Thermal Cameras
At this point, most manufacturers and business owners are familiar with video security technology. Most also know the difference between the old analog CCTV systems that run over coaxial cable…
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Our Complete Guide to Video Security for Alabama Businesses
If you’re responsible for protecting people, property, or operations, security planning can feel overwhelming. There are endless technology options, conflicting advice, and no shortage of vendors pushing equipment before understanding…
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A Quick Look at Our Video Monitoring Service Options
We continue to see a steady increase in inquiries from Alabama businesses and government agencies looking for video security systems that go beyond simple recording. Specifically, organizations want video monitoring…
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Year-End Tax Planning: Lock In Contract in 2017
Are you considering adding, expanding or upgrading your video security system?
If you lock in your contract before December 31, you may be able to offset some of your investment through tax saving
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Video Security Systems Installation: What to Expect
In this article we take a look at how we respond and proceed when we receive a call or email for a quote on a new video security system installation or an upgrade to existing system.
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Digital vs Optical Zoom for Security Cameras
Ideally, you’ll use combination of optical and digital zoom equipped security cameras, in most instances, to maintain surveillance over the entire area being protected while allowing for close-ups of key areas with cameras capable of optical zoom.
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Proactive Service Through Remote Monitoring Saves You Money
Our remote monitoring service can eliminate the need for many service calls and helps to keep your video security system online to maximize the value of your investment.
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Employee Turnover is Expensive, Video Security Can Help
A manufacturer could spend $40,000-$100,000 to replace a skilled tool and die maker. Don’t lose a valuable employee due to parking lot vandalism.
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How Video Security Can Reduce Threats of Workplace Violence
Employers have a duty to provide a safe workplace to employees. Although there is no specific OSHA standard related to workplace violence, the general duty to provide a safe workplace standard requires employers to use “feasible means” to protect workers from acts of violence.
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Use Video Security to Improve Workplace Safety and Compliance
Workplace accidents and injuries are an unfortunate reality across many U.S. industries. In manufacturing, warehousing, mining, and other industrial environments, risk is often built into the work itself: fast-paced operations,…
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7 Reasons Why Video Surveillance in the Workplace is a Smart Investment
Reason 1: Surveillance video can be used to quickly investigate and respond to customer service issues.
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Video Surveillance in the Workplace
Video surveillance in the workplace is one of the most effective ways businesses can protect employees, safeguard assets, and ensure compliance with safety protocols. The key question employers often ask…
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Video Security to Reduce Workplace Injuries
Video security cameras can be a key tool in helping to identify causes of workplace injuries, help to improve operational processes to reduce potential injuries, and to identify areas where safety training needs to be enhanced.
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Surveillance System Keys for the Facilities Manager
Buildings, a commercial property trade publication for smart facilities management, recently published, The Keys to Implementing an Effective Surveillance System, featuring insights and commentary by Vulcan Security Systems CEO Jason Maddox.
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Complete Guide to Modern Video Security Camera Options for Businesses
If you’re evaluating security camera options for your business, the landscape probably feels more complex than ever. Cameras now come with AI analytics, multi-sensor designs, cloud connectivity, cybersecurity requirements, and…
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Another Look at Video Security and the Super Bowl
In early February we put together a comprehensive roundup of news coverage describing the use of video surveillance technology for Super Bowl 51 in Houston. Axis Communications’ video cameras and…
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Network Options for Video Security Systems
The type of security cameras you can deploy requires consideration of your existing or desired network capabilities. In this post, we take a look at the main network options available….
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Super Security for Super Bowl 51
Video surveillance has been a common approach to stadium security during major sporting events, like the Super Bowl. In this post, we take a look at how surveillance security technology is…
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Mobotix Video Cameras Secure Stadiums Around the World
One of the benefits of working with a security systems consulting and service provider like Vulcan Security Systems is that we prefer open, non-proprietary technology architecture. That makes it easier…
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3 Ways Video Security Can Save Money For Your Business
In some instances, the system will pay for itself quickly through a single instance of loss prevention. In other situations, the offsetting savings will accrue over several months through more efficient operations or reduction in questionable claims.
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CCTV Security Systems or IP Video: Is There a Difference?
As businesses upgrade security systems today, they almost always choose to incorporate IP cameras and IP networking capabilities into their surveillance systems.
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Evaluating a Commercial Security Systems Provider
This post offers tips on what to look for when reviewing proposals and evaluating a potential business security system provider.
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Video Surveillance Systems and Toomer Oak Fire in Auburn
Although we are not the security technology provider here, this incident provides an excellent real world example from Alabama to demonstrate difference between high-definition (HD) commercial video surveillance systems and the traditional analog video captured by old-school CCTV systems.
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Your Guide to Church Security Planning
A comprehensive and 360-degree approach to church security planning and implementation will help you get the most out of the resources you have available to devote to security.
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How To Make Your Private School More Secure
In this post we offer a combination of organizational security protocols, facilities management techniques and affordable security technology you can implement in any K-12 private school regardless of size or budget.
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Customer Case Study: Diversified Label Images, Inc.
Diversified Label Images, Inc. (DLI) is a commercial printing company specializing in product packaging and labeling for retail and industrial customers. DLI, located in Irondale, Alabama, offers a range of complex printing solutions for merchandising and promotion, graphic design, and order fulfillment.
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Customer Case Study: Great Southern Wood Preserving, Inc. – Tuscumbia Plant
Morgan Doster, production manager at the Great Southern Wood Preserving, Tuscumbia plant, shares a few thoughts on why he chose Vulcan Security Systems and Mobotix cameras for the YellaWood® facility he oversees as production manager, about system performance and VSS’s customer service track record.
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How PGP Operating LLC Uses Thermal Cameras for Premises Security: Case Study
“The installation will more than pay for itself within a year in cost savings compared to what we were paying for security before.” Quote from Mike Bretzke, General Superintendent, PGP Operating LLC
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Case Study: Capital Tractor, Inc.
We were looking for solutions to reduce our losses [from theft] and save on insurance. We’ve had no incidents of theft since installation. We have confidence that someone is watching when we’re not there.
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Case Study: Dual-Sensor Mobotix Security Cameras Plus Event-Based Monitoring Eliminate Need for Security Guards
“The installation will more than pay for itself within a year in cost savings compared to what we were paying for security before.” Mike Bretzke, General Superintendent of PGP Operating, LLC
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What A Few of Our Clients Have to Say About Us…
The mission of Vulcan Security Systems is to be a value-added video security systems provider to Alabama businesses.
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Remote Viewing Case Study and Metals Recycling
This quick case study shows how the owners of an Alabama metal recycling facility use the remote-viewing capabilities to guide purchase decisions on scrap metal loads.
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Video Security for Distribution Center Inventory Control: Case Study
In this case study, time-stamped video footage from our security cameras quickly solved a missing order problem and paid for the cost of the system.
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Top Video Security Camera Pitfalls Businesses Should Avoid
Most video security problems don’t happen because of bad luck. They happen because the system was chosen, installed, or configured without a clear plan. Businesses often buy cameras to “check…
-
Key Things Businesses Overlook in Video Security Systems
Most businesses don’t realize how many gaps exist in their video security until an incident happens. The biggest problems usually aren’t about the cameras themselves. They come from unclear goals,…
-
Local vs Cloud-Based Security Systems: How to Choose the Right Fit for Your Business
The core difference between local and cloud-based video security is simple: local systems store footage onsite on a dedicated server, while cloud systems send it over the internet to remote…
-
How to Plan the Right Video Camera Security System for Your Business
Planning a video camera security system isn’t about picking cameras off a shelf, it’s about designing a tailored solution that protects your people, property, and operations today, while scaling with…
-
How Security Cameras Can Help With Hospital Security and Patient Care Monitoring
Recent surveys of emergency room physicians and nurses reveal that half—or more—of ER doctors and nurses have been the subject of violent attacks while on duty. Both groups say the violence is harmful to and interferes with patient care.
-
Beyond Surveillance: How Video Security Cameras Are Being Used In Business Operations
Video security cameras today are transforming business operations, not just protecting them. They detect risks, improve safety, streamline workflows, and document compliance, all while cutting the cost and liability of…
-
How Thermal Sensors Work in Video Security Cameras
Thermal security cameras are often misunderstood. They don’t “see” like traditional HD cameras, and they aren’t designed to replace standard video surveillance. Instead, they detect heat differences, making them uniquely…
-
Our Complete Guide to Video Security for Alabama Businesses
If you’re responsible for protecting people, property, or operations, security planning can feel overwhelming. There are endless technology options, conflicting advice, and no shortage of vendors pushing equipment before understanding…
-
Video Security Systems Installation: What to Expect
In this article we take a look at how we respond and proceed when we receive a call or email for a quote on a new video security system installation or an upgrade to existing system.
-
Employee Turnover is Expensive, Video Security Can Help
A manufacturer could spend $40,000-$100,000 to replace a skilled tool and die maker. Don’t lose a valuable employee due to parking lot vandalism.
-
How Video Security Can Reduce Threats of Workplace Violence
Employers have a duty to provide a safe workplace to employees. Although there is no specific OSHA standard related to workplace violence, the general duty to provide a safe workplace standard requires employers to use “feasible means” to protect workers from acts of violence.
-
Use Video Security to Improve Workplace Safety and Compliance
Workplace accidents and injuries are an unfortunate reality across many U.S. industries. In manufacturing, warehousing, mining, and other industrial environments, risk is often built into the work itself: fast-paced operations,…
-
7 Reasons Why Video Surveillance in the Workplace is a Smart Investment
Reason 1: Surveillance video can be used to quickly investigate and respond to customer service issues.
-
Video Surveillance in the Workplace
Video surveillance in the workplace is one of the most effective ways businesses can protect employees, safeguard assets, and ensure compliance with safety protocols. The key question employers often ask…
-
Video Security to Reduce Workplace Injuries
Video security cameras can be a key tool in helping to identify causes of workplace injuries, help to improve operational processes to reduce potential injuries, and to identify areas where safety training needs to be enhanced.
-
3 Ways Video Security Can Save Money For Your Business
In some instances, the system will pay for itself quickly through a single instance of loss prevention. In other situations, the offsetting savings will accrue over several months through more efficient operations or reduction in questionable claims.
-
Evaluating a Commercial Security Systems Provider
This post offers tips on what to look for when reviewing proposals and evaluating a potential business security system provider.
-
Your Guide to Church Security Planning
A comprehensive and 360-degree approach to church security planning and implementation will help you get the most out of the resources you have available to devote to security.
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The Downsides to Proprietary Security Equipment
An electronic security system that is used, produced, or marketed under exclusive legal right of the manufacturer is known as proprietary equipment. These systems come with downsides so it’s important to consider the pros and cons and read your contract carefully before getting locked in.
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How Can IP Video Security Systems Help Your Business?
In this podcast episode Jason Maddox, president of Vulcan Security System explains the nuts and bolts of IP video surveillance, the types of businesses and nonprofits using video security systems to monitor the premises and improve operations.
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Video Security and Privacy in Alabama
Whether or not you have privacy rights to protect you from the prying eyes of video surveillance comes down to this simple question: Is there a reasonable expectation of privacy? A simple question, but one that often requires a complex legal and factual analysis to answer correctly.
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