Alarm Annunciation in a Graphical Environment

Well-designed graphical user interfaces, such as Microsoft® Windows™ or UNIX™-based X-Windows®, provide a capability for enhanced display of security alarm information. Conversely, a poorly designed interface can quickly overwhelm an operator. This paper describes types of graphical information that can be displayed and offers guidance on how to best display that information. Limits are proposed for the complexity of the user interface, and guidelines are suggested for the display of maps and sensors.