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Lynx Panic Alarm System

Duress Alarm System Transition

The UC San Diego Police Department is transitioning existing Duress Alarm account users from traditional hardware-based panic buttons to software-based keyboard panic buttons beginning Fall Quarter 2025. This shift is driven by several factors, including cost-effectiveness, as software-based options leverage existing computer infrastructure and significantly reduce hardware purchase and installation costs. Traditional hardware panic buttons average $1,500–$2,500, while software-based options cost around $200 per workstation. Other benefits include discreet activation via keyboard shortcuts, which is less likely to escalate a situation and reduces accidental activations.

The software provides broad coverage, offering a panic button at virtually any workstation on the campus network. Deployment and management are simpler and faster with centralized management and automated testing streamlining maintenance. The software also offers enhanced information and response capabilities, sending rich data like location and incident type, and triggering multi-faceted responses. Additionally, the system functions even when the computer is locked or logged off, ensuring continuous protection.

The Phase 1 Rollout Plan scheduled for summer 2025, includes:

  • Pilot Program Selection: A small group will test the system to identify issues and refine processes before a full rollout.
  • Network and Endpoint Preparation: This involves testing and streamlining network firewalls and endpoint security software for effective communication, deploying software to designated workstations and ensuring reliable network connectivity.
  • Data Migration and Integration Planning: This includes preparing security alarm information forms, accurately mapping workstation locations for alarm sourcing, planning integration with other physical security systems and determining when existing hardwired buttons will be decommissioned.
  • Training Sessions and Practical Exercises: Users will be trained on activating the alarm, response protocols and will participate in hands-on exercises to build confidence, supported by user manuals and FAQs.
  • Monitoring and Maintenance: The plan includes regular monitoring of system performance, server health, network connectivity and implementing schedules for updates, patches and backups. Supervision features will be used to ensure all components are online.
  • Feedback and Iteration: Channels for user feedback will be established and reviews will be conducted with stakeholders to assess performance and identify improvements, allowing for adaptation based on evolving needs.
  • Expansion: Future plans include expanding the system to other departments, locations or integrating additional input/output devices based on rollout success.

Lynx and CCURE 9000: Instant, Integrated Lockdown Solution

This seamless integration combines dedicated physical lockdown buttons with the power of CCURE 9000 access control for rapid, reliable and comprehensive facility security.

Key System Benefits

  • Single-Action Activation: Eliminates complex steps in an emergency. Dedicated, clearly-labeled physical buttons provide the fastest, most intuitive way to initiate a lockdown.
  • Unified Emergency Response: The system locks doors and simultaneously triggers a multi-channel mass notification alert, ensuring that everyone is informed instantly while the facility is being secured.
  • Flexible and Scalable Hardware:
    • Wired PoE Buttons: Network-connected buttons with custom text and colors for main entrances and critical areas
    • Wireless 900MHz Buttons: Easily deploy lockdown buttons in locations where network cabling is impractical, using reliable, supervised wireless technology
  • Secure and Supervised: All communications between Lynx devices and the server are TLS encrypted. The hardware is constantly supervised to ensure it's online and ready.
  • Complete Audit Trail: Every button press, notification and lockdown action is logged in the Lynx and CCURE 9000 systems, providing a detailed record for compliance and post-incident analysis.

How It Works: From Button Press to Lockdown in Seconds

  • Step 1: Initiate Lockdown – An authorized user presses a dedicated physical Lynx lockdown button (wired or wireless).
  • Step 2: Signal to Lynx Server – The button sends an immediate, encrypted signal to the on-premise or cloud-hosted LynxGuide Server.
  • Step 3: Process and Notify – The Lynx server instantly sends mass notifications: desktop pop-ups, PA announcements, SMS, radio alerts and more.
  • Step 4: Integrate with CCURE 9000 – Simultaneously, the Lynx server sends a pre-configured command directly to the CCURE 9000 server.
  • Step 5: Secure Facility – CCURE 9000 executes the lockdown command, securing doors and restricting access across the facility.