7/15/16
We are NOW approved to provide Continuing Education in WASHINGTON !
Elite CEU is now approved to provide CE hours for the State of Washington. These courses are approved for electricians, administrators, and master electricians!
Approved Courses:
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6/1/2016
Z-Wave and the Future of Home Automation
For many years home automation seemed to be a solution in search of a problem. For the most part, the market consisted of hobbyists and wealthy individuals who wanted to own the latest in electronic gadgetry.
But, even as the popular conversation turned to the “internet of things”, the average consumer remained confused as to how these advances might benefit them. It would take the convergence of several technologies and the unexpected entry of the alarm industry into the fray, to bring “the internet of things” to the mass market.
It started with innovative manufacturers like 2 Gig and Honeywell incorporating a new automation protocol called “Z Wave” into their alarm panels. The security industry quickly embraced the potential of this new technology and began to promote it via their existing marketing channels.
Home Automation Protocols
A home automation protocol connects enabled devices to a controller or gateway, allowing them to be remotely programmed and controlled. In addition to performing essentialcommunication tasks, the success of a protocol depends upon its broad acceptance and adaptation by major vendors – who then incorporate it into their products. In recent years, Z-Wave has become the protocol of choice for the vast majority of vendors supplying “smart devices” to the alarm industry.
To date, about three hundred seventy-five manufacturers have incorporated Z-Wave technology into their products, including industry giants like Kwikset, Schlage, Samsung, Honeywell, GE, Panasonic and LG. Together they have sold more than fifty-thousand products.
The Technology
Z-Wave is a low-power, RF, mesh networking technology, where each node or device on the network sends and receives control commands via intermediate nodes, allowing it to route around obstacles or radio dead-spots. Each device acts like a repeater, extending the network coverage. These networks are often referred to as “self-healing” for their ability to automatically reconfigure communications paths in the event a single device failure. Z-Wave products are designed to consume very little power and can operate on batteries (for up to twoyears) or on household current.
Another important aspect of the Z-Wave gateway is the ability to provide remote access by smart-phones, tablets, and computers. In addition to programing activities, these devices cancontrol smart locks, thermostats and a variety of electrical controllers.
Since the Z-Wave elements of security panel share a common programming environment with its alarm components, functions can be passed between the two systems, giving rise to range ofnew capabilities. For example, when a person leaves their home, they can, with a single tap on their cell phone, activate the alarm, lock the front door, adjust the temperature and turn down the lighting.
The future of Z-Wave and automation
The alarm industry is, by virtue of its marketing and distribution reach, is well positioned to maintain its lead in the home automation marketplace, and with it Z-Wave, as the enabling technology.
Background
The Z-Wave protocol was originally introduced by ZenSys in 2001 and sold to SIGMA Designs, a chip maker in the home entertainment market, in 2008. Z-wave Alliance is an industry consortium of OEMs and other interested parties which promotes awareness, organizes developer forums and advances interoperability standards for the Z-Wave protocol.
For more information on the impressive technology that is Z-Wave, check out our Z-Wave Courses:
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03/01/2016 - Update to Alaska Electrical Standards
Effective March 6, 2016, the 2014 National Electrical Code becomes effective as the minimum electrical standards for the State of Alaska. All continuing education classes taught on or after March 6, 2016 must be concentrated on the 2014 edition of the NEC rater than the 2011 code. 2011 classes completed prior to March 6, 2016 will be accepted for CEU credit.
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02/17/16 -A New Paradigm for Security Sales Professionals?
Elite CEU’s Customer-Centric Approach
No one could accuse the security industry of lagging behind technologically. One need only observe the way in which the industry has embraced recent advances in wireless technology, networking, and component miniaturization.
Year after year, security companies continue to introduce products that offer more and more utility for less and less money. The question is, has the industry kept pace with changes in today’s buyer environment?
Simply put, consumers have developed a social resistance to being sold… especially if their needs have not been addressed first. In addition, consumers are less likely to accept seller claims without verification. The internet has enabled consumers to obtain “social proof”, further enabling this trend.
The era of the forceful salesperson, steeped in sales techniques, wowing prospects with their amazing wares, is rapidly coming to an end. The customer, not the product, is now taking center stage.
In this article we will explore specific steps that security organizations can take to bring their sales efforts more in-sync with today's customer-centric buyer environment.
Step 1 - Think in terms of product benefits
Security technology providers are accustomed to thinking in terms of product features or attributes, whereas, consumers are more likely to think in terms of their needs. No one goes to sleep at night wishing they had a motion detector or touch screen control panel, but they may be occupied with thoughts related to their family’s safety. Delivering peace of mind, in this instance, would be an example of a product benefit.
Step 2 - Uncover customer needs and pain points
Our lives are full of worrisome, unmet needs or pain points. A mother who has to race home each day from work to arrive before her children has a pain point. The salesperson’s challenge is uncover pain points and resolve them with product benefits.
Step 3 - Address specific needs with product benefits
Prepare scenarios by creating a “persona” for each type of customer in your target market, based on demographics and other factors. Consider particular pain points each might have and list the product benefits that best address them.
Step 4 - Focus on value, as opposed to cost
In a competitive, commoditized marketplace, it is important to focus on all the benefits you can deliver rather than the cost. Someone is always ready to offer a lower price. Value, on the other hand, is not so easily duplicated. Once the perceived value of your offer exceeds the actual cost, a sale is likely to result.
Step 5 - Develop your USP
What makes your company so special anyway? It is your USP or unique selling point(s). Here again, it is the customer who decides what is or isn’t important. It could be a product package that addresses the needs of a certain demographic, special payment terms, or something entirely unrelated. Some possibilities include senior discounts, contributions to the local fire department or other social effort. Whether you choose to highlight existing differentiators or develop new ones, your USP is essential to arriving in first-place.
To Sum up:
The skill set required to sell today’s security technology, goes beyond a knowledge “bells and whistles”. The new paradigm requires a shift from selling product features to understanding customer pain points - and addressing them with product benefits. These benefits, combined with your USP create value. In the final analysis, it is this perceived value that wins the day.
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05/21/2015 - New courses approved in Alabama!
Do you have an Alabama license renewal in your near future? Elite CEU has just had 13 new CEU courses totaling 17 hours approved by the AESBL. From our newest NEC courses, to Locksmithing to two new Sales Courses...if you need it or have an interest in it, we have it! Visit our Interactive Map for a full list of approved courses.
05/20/2015 - Incident Report:
Our website will undergo routine maintenance Wednesday, May 27th between 1am - 7am EDT (5am - 11am UTC). The site will be unavailable for up to 5 minutes during this time. Please accept our apologies. We will keep you updated with any changes or in the event of an outage.
04/30/2015 - Online BASA / FASA Certifications are now available!
Elite CEU has now been approved to provide the BASA / FASA Certifications online! For the month of May only, they are available at $150.00 each. Don't forget that price includes the cost of the proctored exam. Don't waste a beautiful day inside or risk losing any lucrative business, instead take courses designed with your busy schedule in mind!!
04/17/2015 - Welcome Kentucky CE/ME/EE License Holders!
Are you short on time and need those last few classes to complete your renewal? Come check out our Interactive Map and see how we can help you. We are now approved to help CE/ME/EE License Holders in Kentucky complete their mandatory course requirements for their license renewal. Don't hesitate to contact our office for additional information.
04/07/2015 - Two new courses approved for North Carolina Installers & Registrants!
Are you an Alarm Installer or Registrant in North Carolina? Do you need only one more hour to renew your license? Come check out two new courses, "Functions of an Alarm System" (ASLB-15-000) and "Alarm Output Devices" (ASLB-15-001). Brand new and available as of today to be applied to a North Carolina license renewal!
03/12/2015 - Welcome Alaska and South Dakota!
Do you have an electricians license in Alaska or South Dakota? Are you short on time and need those last few classes to complete your renewal? Come check out our Interactive Map and see how we can help you. We are now approved to help Electricians in both States complete their mandatory course requirements for their license renewal. Don't hesitate to contact our office for additional information!
03/03/2015 - Two new courses approved for Tennessee Locksmiths!
Have a Tennessee Locksmith License? Are you getting ready to renew and tired of taking the same classes? Come check out our two new courses "Fundamentals of Access Control" (LS1502.01), and "Door Hardware Troubleshooting" (LS1502.02). Brand new and available as of today to be applied to a Tennessee Locksmith license renewal!
01/20/2015 - Are you taking the same classes over and over again?
Do you take the same classes year after year? Are you bored yet? Elite CEU has added over 13 hours of new coursework in the last month alone. These thirteen hours cover all aspects of the Industry, from the most up to date NEC class to our review of Low Voltage Tools and Techniques; from a quick look at Access Control to our brand new Door Hardware Troubleshooting. Don't get stuck in a rut, and don't let a name fool you. Make sure you read the brief descriptions and list of objectives on our website, a locksmithing class might be just what your Access Control License needs.
10/01/2014 - Have an Alabama Locksmith License and still don't know what is required to renew it?
Do you need 12hrs? Or 8hrs? Or even 16hrs? Do you know where your license status stands?
1. If you renewed for one year in 2014, an Alabama Locksmith needed proof of .8CEU's (8 credits). The State of Alabama has stated that if 12 hours were submitted for the 2014 renewal, then .4 CEU's (4 credits) could be credited towards the 2015 renewal. (restrictions apply)
2. An Alabama Locksmiths 2015 renewal must show proof of .8CEU's, (8credits) for a one year renewal.
3. After 2015, all two year renewals of Alabama Locksmiths must meet the requirements as stated in the Administrative Code. This will require the completion of .16CEU's (16 credits) every two years.
For a simple breakdown and clear definition of the new requirements view the Alabama 2015-2016 renewal packet here: (http://www.aesbl.alabama.gov/PDF/2015-2016_Application_Packet-2014-09-17.pdf)
07/15/2014 - Do you have the Certifications required for your Mississippi Office?
Are you aware that as of July 1st of 2014, any company applying for a Class A license must have an employee with a Class B license on staff at each of your operating locations? Do you know how Mississippi actually defines the Alarm Level 2? Don't get fined and don't get scared! Feel free to contact our office for more information or review Part 7 of Chapter 1: of the Mississippi Electronic Protection Licensing Act Rules and Regulation at http://www.mid.ms.gov/regulatiosn/20144reg.pdf or Senate Bill No. 2697 at http://www.mid.ms.gov/state_fire_marshal/SB2697SG.pdf.
07/10/2014 - Elite CEU is now offering the 2011 NEC - Wiring Methods and Materials!
With detailed instructions on the requirements governing wiring methods and boxes, running the wire, specifications and limitation of equipment, and wiring for low voltage. Come see the newest course Elite CEU has to offer!
07/07/2014 - Finally! A convenient and economical way to obtain the Video Surveillance Systems and Closed Circuit Television Certification!
Elite CEU, Inc. is proud to announce the newest most up-to-date VSS Course ! This new VSS Course includes new information based upon the Service Working Group on Imaging Technology (SWGIT) recommendations to the FBI on minimum public standards for VSS/CCTV systems. This is the only course that covers these important and up-to-date guidelines! This new Certification provides the basic knowledge, skills, and techniques needed to participate in the growing field of video surveillance system installation, with coverage of every aspect of the process, including site survey, equipment selection, installation, and troubleshooting. Go to the Elite page for more information!
06/30/2014 - Are you ready to renew your Montana Fire Alarm License?
Don't wait until next May! Think ahead and renew your Fire Alarm Installer License now! All of Elite CEU's fire specific courses are approved by the Department of Labor Business Standards Division Fire Prevention Licensing and can be used to meet your annual 8 hour continuing education requirement. Looking to save money? Check out our new "Montana Fire Alarm Package" for $140 now!
5/20/2014 - North Carolina licensing requirements keeping you confused? Quick and easy, here's the breakdown...
Do you install, service, monitor or sell alarm systems? Then you need to complete six hours of CEU's every two years. An intial license will require either an Alarm Level 1 or 2 years of experience in the past 5 years. Attach the Attendance Certification, you receive from each class, to the license/registration renewal form and submit it to the ASLB office when renewing the license or registration. Are you a licensed locksmith? Then you will need 24 hours of CEU's every three years. Check out our Interactive Map to see the courses approved for each license. Looking for the best deal? Don't forget to check out the State Packages!
05/19/2014 - How many hours does your Alabama Locksmith Renewal require?
Per the Alabama Electronic Security Board of Licensure Administrative Code, Chapter 304-X-1, "To ensure continued competency, all renewing registrants who perform the duties of a locksmith...must demonstrate the completion of eight (8) hours of Board approved continuing education units, annually." For a complete look at all the rules and regulations affecting your Alabama Security License Renewal, please visit (http://www.aesbl.alabama.gov/PDF/Administrative_Code_Final_2013-December_eff_12-24-13.pdf)
05/14/2014 - Getting ready to renew your Louisiana Security License? Make sure you know the rules!
As of December 4th, 2013, the Life Safety & Property Protection Advisory Board, has mandated that "...at the time of an individual's annual license renewal, each individual license holder must document that he/she has obtained at least twenty four (24) hours of continuing education within the three year licensing period." Worried that you don't have all the hours you need? Check out our course catalog to see all of the new classes we have recently added! (http://www.eliteceu.com/CourseCatalogue.aspx) Down to the wire and low on funds? Check out our State Packages! (http://www.eliteceu.com/CourseCatalogue.aspx#8) New packages designed for your specific licensing needs are ready for you!
05/12/2014 - New State Packages Available!
Do you need more hours for your Security License renewal, but are tired of taking the same ole same ole? New State Packages are available! New courses make up these packages, allowing you to purchase your courses with confidance knowing they are approved in the State you are licensed and applicable to your specific licensing needs. Please note: the originial packages are still available and acceptable for you and your employee's license renewals.
4/18/11 ---
FARA and Elite CEU Announces Online False Alarm Prevention Series
AUSTIN, TX — April 18, 2011 — FARA (False Alarm Reduction Association) and Elite CEU, Inc. have partnered to offer a comprehensive set of courses designed to answer questions and solve the problem of false alarms through education and awareness. The first one hour course in this series has been released and is available online at www.eliteceu.com. It’s entitled, False Alarm Reduction 101 – Causes and Impacts and it utilizes video interviews, real-world scenarios, interactive media, and quizzes to explain the importance of false alarm reduction from a public safety perspective. This course will educate all those who have a stake in the reduction of false alarms on the fundamental causes and impacts, the associated resource implications, and the importance of taking an active role in reducing false alarms. This course is an extremely valuable tool and is recommended to be part of the required training for the following :
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· Security Companies - Technicians/Salespeople/Managers
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· 1st Responders - Fire/Police/EMS
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· End Users - Residential/Business Owners
Future modules that will be released Summer and Fall 2011:
200 Series:
201 – General Best Practices / 202 – Training / 203 – Devices / 204 – Control Panel / 205 – Monitoring / 206 – Hold Up, Duress, & Panic
300 Series:
301 – Law Enforcement Response / 302 – Fire Response / 303 – PSAP Operator’s Role / 304 Crime Prevention Operator’s Role / 305 – Security Technician’s Role / 306 – Security Salesperson’s Role / 307 – Central Station Operator’s Role / 308 – Security Owner/Manager’s Role
Elite CEU, Inc. - is a family owned national training school specializing in offering time and money saving training solutions utilizing web and CD/DVD-ROM based platforms. Elite CEU specializes in offering certification courses (i.e. Alarm Level 1 and locksmith certification), as well as State approved continuing education for the Electronic Security, Access Control, Locksmith, Low Voltage, and Fire System industries. With over a century of combined staff and instructor experience in these specific industries Elite CEU offers you educational and valuable knowledge through our e-learning platforms. Since 2004, Elite CEU has been committed to providing small and large businesses with the best comprehensive Interactive Virtual Learning possible.
FARA (False Alarm Reduction Association) - The False Alarm Reduction Association is an association primarily of persons employed by government and public safety agencies in charge of, or working in, False Alarm Reduction Units. Their goal is to assist these individuals in reducing false alarms for their jurisdiction.
This is done by facilitating the exchange of information, influencing legislation, education, and establishing relationships and partnerships with other groups interested in false alarm reduction. Established in 1997, FARA currently serves hundreds of members in the US and Canada through newsletters, conferences and educational programs.
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3/1/11---
ATTN: ALABAMA, LOUSINANA, MISSISSIPPI, NORTH CAROLINA, TENNESSEE, TEXAS
YOUR License Renewal Packages- DEADLINE EXTENDED!!!
Go to : our Course Catalog Page to find details for YOUR STATE !!!
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2/1/11 -
The Pistol Pad - “The Bridge between Firealarm, and Electronic Alarm Industry”
It is imperative in the world today that every man takes all the necessary steps to protect oneself. Protection gives a peace of mind and calmness. The Pistol Pad has become the ultimate option for people who are seeking protection along with safety. Have you ever encountered someone who has noticed that their handgun is missing or they realize it has been taken? According to law enforcement studies, 80% of firearms that are used in violent crimes are stolen out of homes and businesses. The Pistol Pad is made not only to protect yourself but also protect your personal defense weapon!
As the name suggests, the pistol pad is a pad- that allows your firearm to rest and be kept on top of. It contains a connecting loop- that slides through the trigger guard assembly and connects back to the pad- to attach the pistol back to the Pistol Pad. Now for the cool part: This pad is designed to interface with ANY alarm system – manufactured by ANY company! Meaning, you basically have a ‘panic button’ for your handgun! If the handgun is removed from your Pistol Pad, your own alarm system will communicate (i.e. SOUND OFF!) – that it has been removed from the pad. This protects your firearm, while also letting you know that it has been removed. Heaven forbid you encounter an intruder entering your home, and by picking up your weapon- IMMEDIATELY, this accomplishes 3 things:
1. You have armed yourself
2. You (or rather, your alarm) has notified the intruder that he has been detected
3. Sent a message to the corresponding law authority that there is an emergency at your address, and that a handgun has been deployed.
Owning a firearm is not only a great responsibility, but it can be a great investment as well. The best way for you to protect this new investment is by securing it from threats of theft, and other loss. Proper gun protection usually starts in the form of some ‘safe’ or other protective shell. However, all safes can be broken given enough time, and the Pistol Pad contains certain features that make this more difficult for the intruder. Having said that, you may not want your pistol- just out in the open on some protective pad- where everyone can see it. SO- the Pistol Pad has come up with 2 forms of privacy. One comes in the form of a ‘hide’ – or a protective bottomless box that fits right over the pad to disguise it, but can also be lifted off easily. This enables your firearm to be within arms reach, readily available to grab in the instant that you want or need it- while also keeping it out of sight so others won’t become uneasy at the sight of your protective weapon. To go one step further to protect your Pistol, and Pistol Pad- is the Box. This Box can be locked with a key, and also can be mounted down. If the box is opened- yup you guessed it- your alarm system gives you a little ‘pre warning’ that it has been opened- ever before your gun is touched. If you don’t want to mount the box down- you can also receive signal that the entire box has been moved- so it cannot be picked up and taken. Anchored or not, locked or not, if there is an attempt to remove the box- y our alarm will activate and let you know it!
The Pistol Pad is the important unit for those that wish to keep firearms for personal protection. It’s super easy to install, and can be kept out in the open, or creatively hidden. Custom Pads can also be created for different gun sizes and types. Developer Wayne Crook– has a lifetime of Alarm Industry experience – and created the first pistol pad in response to his own clients’ need of readily available access to his firearm. More information on the Pistol Pad can be found at: www.thepistolpad.com and is sold through Security General International.
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12/01/10 - NEW LOWER PRICING! COMPLETE License Renewal Packages - starting as low as $140 !!!
Contact us HERE to see what YOUR State requires and for pricing !
FYI - SPECIAL PRICING EXPIRES MARCH 1st, 2011 !!!! Contact us today to ensure you get the LOWEST PRICE!
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12/08/10 - We finally launched our NEW WEBSITE ! Let us know what you think here----------------
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11/17/10 - GOiNG TO the LLSSA CONVENTION SHOW --- COME CHECK OUT OUR BOOTH and possibly WIN A LAPTOP !!!!
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10/06/10 - ELITE CEU ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP with LEARN.COM!!!
Elite CEU has announced it is partnering with Learn.com to provide an expanded curriculum of internet based learning solutions.
CHECK OUT all the NEW CIRRICULUM HERE! ! 