Alarm systems can include a variety of components to make your home safe, including glass breakage sensors, photo electric sensors, shock sensors, motion detectors and panic buttons.
Many homes are protected with alarm systems that feature contact sensors at all points of entry; windows and doors. A broken contact from pushing open a door or window will trigger an alarm. However, contact sensors alone do not provide adequate protection against someone breaking a window to gain access to your home. This requires the addition of glass breakage detectors which are acoustic and detect the sound of breaking glass. They may be hardwired or wireless, and as they have a limited range, must be installed throughout the home or business.
Photoelectric detectors work by using an infrared beam of light. If the beam of light is broken by someone passing through it, this will trigger a bell or chime while simultaneously activating the alarm. Photoelectric detectors are an important element of many alarm systems and need only be installed where someone will walk. They also have the ability to detect smoke, which if it becomes thick will break the beam. However, if the smoke has broken the beam of photo electric detector, it is already at very dangerous levels.A traditional smoke detector is a more sensitive device, able to detect smoke in the early stages, allowing for the occupants to vacate or take steps to douse any potential flames.
Shock detectors work by sensing vibration, similar to those used in car alarm systems. They can be used in place of contact or glass breakage sensors. The shock detector can pick up the vibrations caused by opening the door or window or breaking the glass, thus triggering the alarm systems.
Motion detectors are a useful addition to a home alarm system. Motion detectors may be hardwired or battery operated and can be relatively inexpensive. Motion detectors are installed in zones and a home or business may require several to provide adequate protection. Several types of motion detectors are available, including infrared, outdoor, pet immune and ceiling mounts. Sophisticated motion detectors can operate interior and exterior lights and cameras. Surveillance motion detectors can save energy costs, coming on only for a pre-set time when triggered.
Panic buttons are an increasingly popular feature of many alarm systems. They are designed to instantly transmit either a silent or audible signal when the button is pressed. The alarm is sent to a monitoring system that dispatches the appropriate emergency response team. In businesses, the panic button is most often located near the cash drawer. In residences, the panic button can either be hidden or located in plain sight. They are commonly located in the bedroom, but can be strategically installed throughout the house. A panic button can also be incorporated in a personal pendant worn by the user oras feature on a key fob allowing for worry-free, easy activation. Some panic alarm models require two buttons be pushed simultaneously to prevent accidental activation and false alarms.
Have an evaluation today to investigate how the various alarm systems can benefit you.