Frequently asked questions

These are some of the questions we get asked most often about the system and devices. Please contact us if you have a question that is not answered here or if you wish to find out more about the system.

Does the DBS System prevent a civil penalty or fine from the authorities?

If used correctly, the DBS System provides the best possible defence from incurring a civil penalty/fine (£2000 each) from the UK Border Force (UKBF), in the event a clandestine entrant is found in your trailer. UKBF have stated that the DBS System is fully compliant with the code of practice and current legislation. It uses 3rd party secure photographic evidence as proof that you had an effective security system in place, used the system correctly and therefore had no reasonable grounds to suspect that a clandestine entrant was concealed in your vehicle.

How robust is the equipment?

The DBS System uses your own smart phone to record the external checks required and control the DBD Device inside the trailer. The DBD Device is designed to operate from -20 to +60 Degrees Celsius. It is made from a tough ABS plastic casing, designed to withstand the working environment of a freight trailer with reasonable care and attention. The DBD Device has a 24-month manufacturer warranty for component or manufacture defects, not caused by willful damage or negligent use.

Does the DBD System prevent entry into my vehicle?

The DBS System is designed to Protect, Detect and Deter criminal activity through enhanced physical security and detection using the DBD Security Seals and DBD Device, and increased driver security awareness through using the DBD App to conduct external checks. The DBS System does not prevent a determined criminal or clandestine from gaining entry to the trailer, but it will detect the entry and alert the driver. Enhanced rear door physiscal security and control can be added by purchasing the DBD e-Lock which is GPS tracked, remotely monitored smart lock controlled with integrated tamper alarm alerts for the driver and operator.

How long does the battery in the DBD Device last?

The DBD Device battery life is dependent on the mode, extent and duration of its remote sensors use. The DBD Device battery is designed to operate continuously using passive sensors for 72 hours in ambient conditions. The DBD Device is also designed to be switched to stand-by mode remotely from the driver’s phone i.e when not required for internal checks or in periods of reduced security threat. When using stand-by mode regularly, battery life is extended significantly to over 6 days. The DBD Device sends the driver a low battery warning and is supplied with 2 sets of rechargeable lithium ion batteries, a mains charger and 12/24v adapter.

How do I get the App on my phone?

Both the DBD App and the DBD Device App (to control the DBD Device) can be downloaded for free from Google Play for Android phones. The DBD App can also be downloaded for iOS devices from the Apple Store.

Click here for the Download page

To activate the DBS System and the DBD Appyou will require an active subscription which is €120 (£110) per year or €11 (£10) per month.

Contact Us for more information on Subscriptions.

Can the elements of the DBS System be used independently or separately?

The DBS System consists of 4 key elements (DBD App, DBD Device, DBD Security Seal and DBD Database). Each element contributes to improved overall vehicle and freight security but it is all four elements together that provide the best possible Protection, Detection and Deterrence to all criminal activity.

The DBD App replaces the UKBF external paper vehicle security checklist and provides 3rd party assurance of the checks having been completed. Without the DBD Device or DBD Security Seals internal checks and physical security measures, such as a padlock, would still be required.

TheDBD Device can be used to monitor the interior of a trailer and to conduct internal checks without entering the trailer, but without a DBD App subscription there would be no DBD Database to store the evidence, and therefore mitigate a civil penalty if a clandestine entrant was found.

The DBD Security Seal can be used to secure trailer doors or tilt cord with a unique serial number and one-time tamper proof design, but without the DBD App subscription, there is no evidence trail stored in the DBD Databaseto prevent civil penalties nor detect and deter organised criminal activity.

The DBD e-Lock can be used to also secure rear trailer doors, is an extremly robust lock with real time GPS tracking, remote monitoring and lock control and integrated tamper alarm alerts. However, without the DBS System there would be no evidence of the necessary security checks being completed, and therefore, the driver and operator would remain at risk of receiving penalties from border authorities.

How much does the DBS System Cost?

The DBS system is a combination of a vehicle security service which includes the DBD App and DBD Database (€120 per year) and the DBD Device (€265 each).

The DBD Device includes the device controlling App for free, 2 x remote motion sensors and 2 sets of rechargeable batteries and charger all with a 12-month warranty.

The DBD Security Seals are a one-time use consumable (€5 per 10 seals). Discounts are available for fleet solutions and bulk orders.

The DBD e-Lock includes a 10 year SIM and data package (€265 each)

Is the DBS System British?

AET Int Ltd is a British company that has designed, developed and is marketing this British invention. The DBD App is designed and maintained by DabApps based in Brighton. The DBD Device is manufactured in China. AET Int Ltd is working with Phoenix Security, based in Poland, as our Eastern European distributor.

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If you would like to learn more about the Driver Buddy System please get in touch.

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