A security alarm system is designed to detect unauthorized intrusion into a building or area. They are used in residential, commercial, industrial, and governmental properties for protection against theft, property damage, and intruders.
Some security alarm systems have a single purpose of solely burglary protection, while other burglar alarm systems provide both fire and intrusion protection. Intrusion alarm systems can be combined with CCTV surveillance systems to automatically record the activities of intruders and access control systems for electrically locked doors.
Security alarm systems range from small, self-contained noisemakers to complicated systems with computer monitoring.
Security Alarm Components:
A typical burglar alarm security system includes the following components:
- A panel that reads sensor inputs, tracks arm/disarm status, and signals intrusions.
- Sensors that detect intrusions by monitoring doors and windows for opening or unoccupied interiors for motions, sound, vibration, or other disturbances.
- Alerting devices that indicate an alarm condition through bells, sirens, and/or flashing lights.
- Keypads that function as the interface to the system.
- Interconnections between components that include direct wiring to the control unit or wireless links with local power supplies.
In addition to the local security alarm system itself, security alarms are often coupled with a monitoring service. In the event of an alarm, the panel contacts a central monitoring station, where operators see the signal and contact property owners, notifying police, or dispatching private security forces. The signal may be transmitted through a dedicated alarm circuits, by telephone lines, or by the Internet.
Sensor Types:
Several different sensor types can be used within the burglar alarm system, including:
- Passive infrared detectors
- Ultrasonic detectors
- Microwave detectors
- Passive magnetic field detection
- Vibration or inertia sensors
- Photo-electric beams
- Glass break detectors
- Smoke, heat, and carbon monoxide detectors
- Taut wire fence systems