Most of us are aware of the alarm systems that are set up in residential and commercial areas. It is basically a control panel for a security setup that reports any alarming signal that is necessary to be alert for the unforeseen security breach. The alarm system is the brain of the security setup and any sensor that gets activated report to the alarm system. It is essential to know how these alarms work and the different kinds of alarms available in the market to enhance the security of your home or building.
How Does An Alarm System Work?
The alarm system is the “brain” of a security setup and the sensors are the important part of an alarm system. The alarm setup includes environmental sensors, security sensors, life-safety sensors, and Z-Wave devices. The alarm system relies on these sensors to know if something fishy has occurred. The sensor gets activated based on the zone associated and the activated sensor triggers the programmed Response Type for that zone. The panel sends out an alarm signal to a central monitoring station based on the Response Type and depending on the user’s monitoring plan.
The operator then requests for an automatic emergency dispatch when the alarm signal is received. However, if the signal is received by the end user, then the onus lies on him or her to contact emergency services.
The System Control Panel
The technical specifics of an alarm system may differ for each security provider. However, the basics remain the same and the centre of a network of sensors is always the system control panel.
The system control panel may include motion detectors, window or door sensors, tamper sensors and may even carry specialized temperature, smoke, and flood detectors. When the sensors are triggered, the signals are sent to the monitoring station via telephone line or other transmission options installed for the same. Some system control panels carry additional features, such as immediate alarms.
The home security system gets essential information including account identification and the kind of sensor that has been activated. There are important benefits of around-the-clock alarm monitoring and most home security providers advocate the alarm system. The alarm noise allows one to know immediately that there is some problem and to take the necessary action immediately. Many intruders may even get frightened by the sudden alarm noise.
Different Kinds of Alarm Systems
Today, one will come across many types of home alarms system available in the market and it sure can get a bit overwhelming as to what kind of alarm to go for. Well, a lot of things relies on what you need and what you are looking for that serves your purpose. There are different needs for the commercial and residential areas. Here are some of the most common types of alarms that you will come across in the market.
- Burglary alarm systems – The burglary system gets activated with a code in case of an intrusion and the alarm sets off a large-scale alarm.
- Intrusion detection system – The intrusion detection system is the most advanced entry alarm system and is paired with a Security Operations Control room. A security operator monitors any events happening around the doors.
- Fire alarm systems– Smoke detectors trigger the alarm to notify one of any smoke or fire within a building. Every building should have a fire system.
Summing Up
Discuss your security needs and the kind of alarm system you are looking for with a knowledgeable security specialist. The security of your home and your loved ones is of top priority, especially if one is disabled or otherwise incapacitated. At the end of the day, it is your responsibility to ensure that your house and its occupants are safe and secure.
