Wireless Security System Overview
Alastair Lydeard
Many Hollywood films show the burglar or villain having a rather easy time of breaking into a home. They simply snip the wires leading to the home alarm system, and voila, instant entry. One of the answers to this problem is to have a system without wires -- a wireless security system.
These wireless burglar alarms use radio waves to communicate with other components instead of using wires. The potential burglar cannot figure out how to cut wires to disable the system, so gives up.
There are two basic types of wireless burglar alarms available today. The first kind is activated by an intruder, but the alarm is only audible to the homeowner and nearby neighbors. These systems are less useful if you live in a rural area, and are not home when the break-in takes place. The second kind of wireless security system includes a monitor that will detect a forced entry, and then communicate that fact to a security company. The company staff will confirm whether it is a genuine break-in, and if so, will immediately call the local police.
The central brains of a wireless security system is the control panel, which can usually be located in the basement or a closet. Here, all the wireless signal data from the various magnetic switches and motion detectors in the home is sent. If the control panel detects a suspicious movement or door or window entry, it will sound the alarm or place a phone call to the monitoring staff at the security company.
Magnetic contacts are attached to doors and windows. These small, inconspicuous devices consist of two parts: a switch installed inside the window or door jam, and a magnet placed on the door or window. If the distance between the magnet and switch increases, as in the case of forced entry, the control panel will receive a signal and sound the alarm.
Large hallways are sometimes equipped with body sensors as part of a wireless security system package. These devices use passive infrared motion detection methods to sense motion or body heat. If motion is detected, a signal is sent to the control panel. At that time the panel will analyze the level of threat, and then decide whether to alert the central monitoring station.
To enter or leave your home, the wireless security system must be deactivated or activated. You simply enter the password on a keypad near the main entrance to your home, making setting the alarm easy to do. Remote control devices also come with some systems, just like car alarms, so that owners can operate some features from a distance. Some systems allow owners to switch lights off or on remotely, giving the appearance of a home that is occupied.
Some wireless security systems also have hidden or wall-mounted cameras, which connect to a video unit and recorder, such as a VCR. When movement is detected, the cameras record the scene onto the VCR. For extra fees, the cameras could also be monitored by staff of the security service.
There is no doubt that any home security system can offer a certain degree of protection for your property, or even your life. However, for the highest level of protection, a wireless security system is your best choice.
Alastair Lydeard loves contributing to several well-known web sites, on http://biduv.com/ home security systems and http://www.truckparts.biz) wholesale truck part issues.
|
