Home Security System Components

Home Security System Components

There are several key components that every alarm system must have. These are not optional and the manufacturer of the security system does not alter the fact that these are required.

Security System Alarm Control Panel (Required)

• Hard Wired
  • Each Burglar alarm system must have a hard wired control panel. Hard wired means that there is physically wire connected to the panel. In the case of the control panel the minimum that will be hard wired to it are the transformer and the keypad.
  • Wireless
    • Wireless alarm systems still require wire for some basic operation. There still must be a keypad and also a transformer and a siren.

Security System Keypad (Required)

• Wireless and Hardwired Alarm Systems
  • Both types of systems require a keypad to be hardwired to the control panel. There are keypads that are called wireless but this refers to the devices that are used in the security system. When a keypad is called wireless it means that the keypad itself is a wireless receiver and the wireless devices connected to the system “talk” to the keypad and that information is then relayed to the control panel.

At least some of the following devices will need to be added to the system. How many and which type depends on the area to be secured and the level of protection desired.

Audible Devices

• Sirens-Horns-Bells
  • Audible devices come in all shapes and sizes. They do very in the sound produced and the loudness or decibel ratings. Essentially they all are meant to do one thing. They produce a loud sound that is meant to alert the surrounding area that there is an intrusion. They also have a tendency to scare of the intruder before any items can be stolen or damaged.

Perimeter Protection

• Door Security-Window Security Contacts
  • Door and window contacts are connected to either a door or a window. The contact consists of a magnetic switch and a magnet. When the window is closed the magnet pulls in the switch and creates a closed or open connection to the control panel. When the door or window is opened the switch will change state and an alarm is initiated.
  • Glass Break Protection
    • Glass break detection consists of a device that that is placed near glass. The device is constructed to “listen” for the sound of breaking glass.
    • Vibration Sensors
      • Vibration sensors can detect a vibration on a wall, window or safe. When the vibration threshold is passed the the alarm is triggered.

Interior Protection

• Motion Sensors
  • Motion sensors are devices called PIR (Passive infrared) sensors that detect motion by sensing a rapid change in infrared energy. When the device sees this change the alarm is triggered.

Peripheral Protection

• Freeze Detection
  • Freeze alerts can provide protection against cold temperatures. If you live in a colder climate then you understand the damage that can be caused by freezing pipes. These devices are set to a temperature range and when that range is reached the contact will close and the alarm system will be triggered.
  • Flood Detection
    • Flood detection devices are installed and then connected to the security system. When water is detected the alarm system is triggered.

These are the basics of a home security system. There are countless ways that a security system can be enhanced. If you use the correct security system they can be easily upgraded as your needs grow without the need for replacing the entire system. Hue and Cry Security can help you to access your needs and make the correct choice for your home security needs.

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