Wireless Security System Overview
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.
A wireless home security system is a burglar alarm that does not use wires to transmit messages; instead it uses radio waves to communicate. This leaves the burglar or the intruder clueless, unable to know which wires to cut to deactivate the alarm.
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 control panel is the brains of all wireless security systems. It is usually found in the basement or in a closet. The control panel is where all wireless signals are sent from the various motion sensors and magnetic switches placed throughout the home. If a suspicious movement signal or entry is detected, the control panel sounds an alarm, or phones the security company’s monitoring service.
Small, inconspicuous magnetic contacts are attached to windows and doors. They include two parts, a magnet that is placed on the window or door, and a switch that is placed inside the door jam or window sill. They work very simply: if the distance between the switch and the magnet increases, which would happen if the door or window were forced open, a signal is sent to the control panel, which sounds 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.
Each wireless security system includes a keypad, which homeowners use to turn the system on or off. Normally, keypads are installed beside the main entry door, so that it is convenient to arm the alarm when leaving, or to deactivate it when returning home. Some systems also include remote devices, similar to a car alarm, which can operate several features. Homeowners can also switch lights on or off from a distance using the remote controller, to give the illusion that the home is occupied.
Some wireless security systems also come with cameras, which can be all mounted or hidden. The cameras connect to a control panel and a recording device, such as a VCR. If an intruder is detected, the cameras record the home scene automatically. Some packages also include camera monitoring by security staff at the alarm system company.
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.
