Why a Single Transmission Path Is Not Enough
In security, the speed of alarm transmission is just as important as detection itself.
If your alarm system cannot communicate with the remote monitoring centre due to an internet outage or a line cut, it becomes temporarily ineffective.
In Switzerland, network outages, interference, or acts of sabotage can leave an alarm silent.
That’s why businesses that want to guarantee 24/7 protection choose multi-path professional alarm systems: a primary transmission backed by a secondary transmission.
At Protectas, all our connected alarms linked to our Security Operations Centers (SOC) in Geneva and Zurich operate with dual-path IP + 4G/5G transmission, ensuring constant communication for your business alarm system.
Expert Opinion: Recommendation from Pascal Hulalka
Pascal Hulalka, Solutions Director at Protectas and member of Switzerland’s alarm transmission standards committee, always recommends using a dual-path transmission:
“Even for residential clients, I always recommend a dual-path transmission — wired IP plus a 3G or 4G modem — in case the wired connection is interrupted.”
This recommendation is based on the European EN 50136 standards, which define requirements for reliable alarm transmission, and on our field experience.
What Is a Multi-Path System?
A multi-path business alarm system uses at least two separate transmission channels to send alarm signals:
- Primary path: wired IP network or fibre optic
- Secondary path: cellular 4G/5G network
If the primary path fails, the secondary path automatically takes over.
Advantages of Dual Transmission
- Maximum availability: the alarm stays connected even during outages
- Protection against sabotage: if an intruder cuts the network cable, the cellular connection takes over
- Faster transmission: both paths are continuously monitored (polling)
- Higher reliability: compliant with European EN 50136 standards
- Peace of mind: no “dead zones” in communication
Polling: Constant Connection Monitoring
Polling involves sending regular test signals between your alarm system and our SOC.
At Protectas, polling frequency is adjusted to your risk level:
- SMEs: every 24 hours
- High-risk sites (jewellers, banks): every 3 minutes
This continuous monitoring ensures any loss of connection is detected immediately.
Comparison: Multi-Path Alarm System vs. Single Path
| Criteria | Multi-Path (Protectas) | Single Path |
| Availability | Very high (99.9%) | Average |
| Cut protection | Yes | No |
| EN 50136 compliant | Yes | Varies |
| Continuous polling | Yes | Sometimes |
| Fast response to outages | Yes | No |
Why Choose Protectas for Your Multi-Path Professional Alarm System
- Dual IP + 4G/5G transmission included in all professional installations
- Continuous monitoring from two interconnected SOCs in Switzerland
- Polling frequency set according to your risk profile
- Maintenance and supervision included in our Full Managed By model
Your Security Without Compromise
Want to be sure your alarm will always transmit, even during a network outage?
Our experts can provide a free risk assessment and recommend a professional alarm system tailored to your business.
Contact us today to arrange a demonstration or receive your free, personalised risk assessment.
