Most systems rely on a combination of contacts placed at doors and windows and motion sensors.
It is best that all exterior potential points of entry have contacts that sense when they are open. Glass break sensors are also available and recommended.
Motion sensors should not be used as the primary means of detection because they do not detect someone until they are already in the house.
The basic elements of a standard home security system include:
• Control panel: This is where the system wiring terminates, the backup battery is located and where it is connected to the phone lines if it is a monitored system.
• Keypad: This is where the system is armed and disarmed.
• Glassbreak Detector: These detect the sound frequency of glass breaking within a 25’ radius.
• Flood Sensor: These detect water leaks in basements or areas prone to flooding.
• Keyfob: Used the arm/disarm the system before entering the house.
• Inside motion detector: These sense changes in a room caused by human presence. Special motion detectors are available for people who have pets.
• Door and window contacts: This sounds the alarm when the door or window is opened (and the system is on).
• A central monitoring station (Company): If the system is monitored, and the alarm is set off, the control panel sends a message to a central monitoring station, which is manned 24 hours a day. After attempting to contact the homeowner, the central monitoring station will contact the police, fire department, or medics.
There is usually a monthly fee for this service.
It is also a good idea to install at least one CO detector and one Smoke detector on each level of the house being monitored. This way if there happens to be a fire when you are not home, the Fire Department will be notified.
CUSTOMIZE YOUR SYSTEM TO MATCH YOUR LIFESTYLE
Because every home is different, Sleep Tight Security will help you create a unique system customized to meet your needs.
Illustration Key
1 - 1 POINT KEY FOB
2 - 2 POINT GLASS BREAK SENSOR
3 - 2 POINT MOTION DETECTOR
4 - 2 POINT SMOKE DETECTOR
5 - 1 POINT WALL FOB
6 - 1 POINT EMERGENCY PENDANT
7 - 1 POINT DOOR/WINDOW SENSOR
Wired Vs Wireless Home Alarm Solutions: Making The Choice
The wired versus wireless security debate is pretty evenly balanced, with good reasons to choose one or the other.
Wired Alarm Advantages
* Many new and pre-owned homes come with pre-installed wiring, saving time and money.
* Not nearly as susceptible to interference.
* Allows greater distance between devices.
* Tend to cost less, unless construction or professionally installation is required.
Wireless Alarm Advantages
* In general, faster and easier to install.
* Easier to make location changes and grow your system.
* Can be removed and taken with you when you move.
* If professional installation is needed, wireless is usually much cheaper.
Both wired and wireless alarms can be enhanced up with a variety of options - hidden cameras, strobes, sirens, and automatic telephone dialing when security is breached. And you can get professional alarm monitoring for either type of system.
So before casting your vote on the "wired vs wireless security systems" debate, consider the cost, ease of installation, and distance requirements. All things being equal, a wireless solution will probably be your best bet.
