Equipment
Before makeing a decision on a security system, it is important that you become familar with the associated devices that is common to each hardwired or wireless security system. Depending on needs, the number of alarm devices can be more or lesss.
Security Alarm System
Master Control Panel – The alarm master control panel is the main communication computer of any alarm system. It is one of the only required devices on the system and handles all of the communication functions. All of the devices directly communicate to the alarm panel to operate the system and send signals to the alarm monitoring center. It is mounted in a metal box that is in a secure location usually in the closet or attic. This is also the most expensive alarm system device to replace.
Keypad or Touchpad – The alarm keypad is the most used device on your home security system because it is where you complete programming, operational changes and “arming” functions. You can by pass zones, troubleshoot the system and change user codes. You need at least one keypad which is usually installed by the front door. In most cases, conusmer may desire another keypad at the back door or even garage. Having multiple keypads increases the overall cost of the alarm system as it is usually the second most expensive alarm system device.
Motion Detector – Motion detectors are also one of the most used alarm components because it senses motion in the protected area thus sending information to the alarm control panel. Since each motion detector protects only a certain amount of space, the number of motion detectors that you required may differ depending on your total square footage. Hardwired motion detectors are less expensive than wireless motion detectors. You can also get a pet immune motion detector to allow your pets to roam freely while your security alarm is activated. There are many different motion detectors to choose from depending on need to be sure to compare the features and benefits of each one.
Door and Window Sensor - Door and window sensors protects with magnetic contacts that trigger a “open” or “closed” circuit thus causing the security alarm system to detect a breach. If the door or window is open, the magnetic closure is broken and a signal is transmitted to the alarm control panel with the status of that zone. A hardwired window sensor is far less expensive than a wireless window sensor.
Glass Breaker Detector – Glass break detectors detect the high pitch sound of glass breaking sending signals to the alarm panel with a broken glass condition. Since most burglars tend to break glass to enter a door or window, you need to be protected because not opening the door or window does not trigger the contact sensor. A hardwired glass breaker detector is less expensive than a wireless glass break detector.
Shock Sensor - Unlike glass break detectors that sense sound, a shock sensor detects the present of vibrations. This is important in the event that a burglar kicks in the back door that does not have glass. In most cases, the door sensor will trigger but the shock sensor will activate too. Shock sensors are an important addition to any home security system. A hardwired shock sensor is less expensive than a wireless shock sensor.
Smoke Detector – The smoke detector is the alarm system device that detects smoke and fire. This is a must for any security system has it will alert you in the event of a fire breakout. If is a good idea to install a smoke detector in each room of the residence. A wireless smoke detector is more expensive.
Flood Sensor - The flood sensor is the alarm device that senses the presence of water in a protected area. Theses are usually installed in locations that might be vulnerable to flooding or leaking. This is designed to minimize the chances of water damage.
Temperature Detector – A temperature detector is the security alarm device that detects the flucuations of temperature. This is important for area that must be temperature controlled at all times or vulnerable if the temperature rises or falls.
Freeze Detector – The alarm system freeze detector is the alarm component that protects against freezing temperatures. Freeze detectors are designed to reduce damage by early detection.
Alarm Siren or Speaker – The indoor alarm siren is responsbile for making the loud squaking sound when the alarm system is triggered thus alerting burglars that the police is on the way. This is one of the most important deterrent as most criminals will fee the scene when the risk of being seem or caught is high.
Power Transformer – The alarm transformer is the power pack that is connected from the master alarm control panel to a 120 volt electrical outlet. This is in essence the power source for the security alarm system.
Backup Battery – The alarm system batteries simply provide a backup power source to your alarm system in the event of power failure. A backup alarm battery should be able to power your system for several days with power.