In our sixth installment of SVIP Verified, we take a deep dive into Action-CS Active Deterrent Units. Our evaluation features a hands-on system review by the SVIP Verified Team and an exclusive interview with Katharyn McGill of Seattle, Washington.
*The SVIP Verified Team is composed of seasoned technical industry professionals and end users, collectively bringing over a century of expertise to the evaluation process.*
SVIP Verified System Evaluation
Action-CS provided SVIP with their Exterior Active Deterrence Unit (pictured below), which included a bullhorn, audio card, integrated red/blue strobe lighting, and Hanwha Wisenet's P-Series camera. Unit operates on a single ethernet connection.
The SVIP Verified team then conducted a thorough evaluation of Action-CS Deterrence Unit.
Evaluation Criteria
1. Hardware (photo below)
2. Performance
3. User Experience
5. Integration & Support
6. Innovation
7. Cost
8. End User Interview
9. SVIP Final Comments
*Hardware* (photos below)
Action-CS External Active Deterrence Unit
Hanwha Wisenet P-Series Dome Camera
Audio Card (Inside Unit)
*Performance*
The ADU delivers exactly as promised. Powered through a single Cat5 cable, it allows users to upload and configure their own MP3 files for audible alerts, manage sirens and strobes, and even retrofit the unit with any ONVIF-compliant camera.
*User Experience*
When logging into the Action-CS software, users can access a wide range of configuration options for their ADUs—including trigger patterns, custom audio files, color schemes, intensity levels, zoning, and more. Screenshots below.
*Integration & Support*
Action-CS ADUs integrate seamlessly with any ONVIF-compliant camera, including brands such as Axis, Hanwha, Bosch, Avigilon, Panasonic, Verkada, 3xlogic, and more (see full list here). They are also fully compatible with leading VMS platforms like Genetec and Milestone. Prior to install, users will receive full support on install and implementation of their ADUs. For additional support, users can request a ticket on the Action-CS website here. Video voice down explainer below. Published by Action-CS.
*Innovation*
Although Action-CS is relatively new to the industry, the company continues to innovate through product design, strategic partnerships, and additional capabilities. Not only are the ADUs powered by a single Ethernet cable but they can also be deployed on surveillance trailers—another solution offered directly by Action-CS. See below photo. We spoke with Co-Founder, Eric Lars Larson previously on how Action-CS plans to innovate in our news article here.
*Cost*
Prices vary based on configuration, brand compatibility, and supplier. That said, end users can generally expect pricing to range between $2K and $5K for a single ADU. Trailer solutions are also priced more competitively compared to mainstream providers like LiveView (LVT). For precise pricing, availability, and volume discounts, it’s best to reach out directly to Action-CS or authorized resellers.
*End User Interview*
We spoke with Katharyn McGill, a dedicated small business owner in the Greenwood neighborhood of Seattle, about how Action-CS’s Active Deterrent Units have transformed the safety and confidence of her team.
A Personal Mission to Protect Staff
When asked what prompted her to deploy the Action-CS solution, Katharyn didn’t hesitate.
“Many of our dedicated staff members, predominantly women, conclude their shifts in the late hours of the night or the very early morning. Their vehicles are typically parked in a secluded back alley area behind the premises. It was of paramount importance to me that they feel secure and protected as they leave work, especially given the vulnerable nature of the location and the time of day. Ensuring their safety and peace of mind is a top priority for our organization.”
Real-Time Deterrence in a Real-World Setting
Katharyn operates a small business in the heart of Seattle’s Greenwood neighborhood. The facility may be modest, but the security challenges are real. She shared how the installation process was smooth and professional, and the results were nearly immediate.
“Absolutely. There have been multiple times when staff have either used the app to check the area before entering and used talk-down to deter lurking individuals or monitoring staff have assisted like guardian angels to guide staff safely to their vehicles.”
That "talk-down" capability, a real-time audio deterrent feature, has proven particularly effective.
“On numerous occasions my staff have effectively deterred individuals or assisted in the investigation of criminal behavior.”
Layered Deterrence with Mobile Access
Katharyn utilizes strobe lights and talk-down features regularly, especially when unknown individuals are detected near the building.
“Each staff member has mobile app access to the camera views. They can safely check the area before exiting the back door into the dark alley and deter anyone lurking in the area.”
In addition to internal monitoring, she works with a third-party monitoring team recommended by Action-CS.
“Action-CS referred us to a monitoring solution that has been very effective for many years.”
Impact on Safety, Culture, and Costs
The deployment hasn’t just increased peace of mind—it’s led to tangible outcomes.
“Our staff feels safer. Crime has actually either been thwarted or decreased overall.”
And while her business never employed security guards, Katharyn noted that the solution has made a significant difference in employee retention and morale.
“The fact that staff feels safe has lowered costs with regards to employee turnover.”
Feedback from her team has been overwhelmingly positive.
“All of our staff love this guardian angel solution.”
A Solution Worth Sharing
When asked if she would recommend Action-CS to other business owners, Katharyn was enthusiastic.
“Absolutely. I even took the time to review them on Google so others can see their solution works for small businesses.”
One standout incident highlights the power of having reliable surveillance. A staff member dealing with harassment from an ex-partner was able to use Action-CS footage to prove the presence of a tracking device on her vehicle—critical evidence that helped her obtain a restraining order.
“Action-CS team was able to retrieve the footage and aid in getting a restraining order in place.”
Reliable Support, Trusted Partner
Katharyn also praised the Action-CS team for their attentiveness and reliability.
“Very responsive and consistently supportive. See my Google review.”
From crime deterrence to staff safety and emotional peace of mind, Action-CS has become an essential part of daily operations for Katharyn and her team. For small business owners looking for a security solution that truly fits their needs—Action-CS may be the guardian angel you're looking for.
*SVIP Final Comments*
After our review, we identified five key reasons why Action-CS's ADU stands out in the security industry.
Different from Other Deterrent-Centric Companies
Let’s face it—the security industry is crowded with mobile deterrent and trailer-based companies, making it difficult for end users to decide which vendor truly stands out. Action-CS differentiates itself by not locking customers into a specific camera manufacturer. Instead, they allow clients to leverage existing infrastructure, creating significant cost savings by avoiding unnecessary hardware purchases.
Customization and Personalization
As highlighted in previous reviews, one of Action-CS’s most distinctive strengths is its ability to tailor ADUs to individual end-user needs. From custom MP3 files for audible alerts to various color combinations for visual warnings, their approach to personalization sets them apart in the industry.
Simple Installation
Both integration partners and end users benefit from the simplicity of ADU deployment. Powered through a single Ethernet cable, installation is smooth and efficient. For environments where power isn’t readily available, Action-CS also offers light pole kits and solar-powered options—making their solutions adaptable to diverse conditions.
Pricing Flexibility
Cost is always a consideration, and in this area, Action-CS earns strong marks. Compared to other players in the market, end users found the company’s pricing to be highly competitive—accessible enough to make adoption feasible across multiple industries, including small businesses.
End-User Feedback
Perhaps the strongest endorsement comes from those who have used the ADU firsthand. Our community of end users consistently praised the product, with positive feedback from both the gaming and construction sectors. In line with Katharyn’s sentiments, they agreed the ADU is not only unique within the security landscape but also a true value-add to existing infrastructure.
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