Published September 19, 2017
Choosing Burglar Alarm Devices
Burglar alarm systems are generally easy to understand. This is surprising because technology, in general, can be overwhelming. However, when you decide to get a burglar alarm system from Shield Fire & Security we make it an exciting experience. We found that by educating our customers on the features we offer and by conducting post-install training we alleviate a lot of the stress that comes with purchasing a new piece of technology. We listen to exactly you are looking for in your new burglar alarm and educate you on additional features so you can decide what is a good fit for you.
In this blog, we are going to discuss what features and devices a burglar alarm has, and how they can be applicable to you!
Keypad
A keypad is what you use to arm/disarm your system. Keypads either have keys or are a touchscreen. Many people choose the touchscreen option because many hold the panel too. Many consumers upgrade to the touchscreen keypad solely because of its modern sleek design. Also, If you elect a normal keypad you will have to have a metal box somewhere to hold the panel and backup battery for your burglar alarm system.
Lyric Controller
Lynx 5210
6160 Keypad
Contact perimeter device
Contacts come in different forms, but they all do the same thing. They detect is a perimeter is open or closed. The most common use for contacts are on doors and windows. Every burglar alarm should have contacts because every home has doors and windows. See if your home is prewired for a burglar alarm system. If you have a prewired home the contacts are hardwired contacts which serve the same purpose as wireless contacts they are just less expensive. Also, wireless contacts you can take with you if you move.
Wireless door contact
Motion Sensor
Choosing to have a motion sensor sometimes is more involved than you think. The sensor will detect motion when the system is armed in away mode. Just like a contact there are hardwired and wireless motions; both serve the same purpose. If there is anything moving in front of the motion it will use infared technology and go into alarm. We often see motion alarms because of pets, air conditioning, and surprisingly balloons! Another noteworthy tip is if you have an animal make sure you get a pet friendly motion. If your animal is more than 25lbs and is out during the time you arm your system then we don’t suggest a motion sensor because it will go into alarm.
PIR Motion Sensor
Glassbreak sensor
This sensor detects glass breaking. A glassbreak just like a contact and motion can also be hardwired or wireless. Glassbreaks just listen for glass breaking so if a sound similar to glass breaking occurs while it’s armed then the glassbreak will go into alarm. For example, we have a customer whose child set off the glassbreak every time she played with her toys because she would dump them onto the hard floor while the sensor was armed.
Wireless Glassbreak sensor
Automation
Shield Fire & Security offers lights, locks, garage door, thermostat, and video doorbell automation. All devices can be set to schedules, and can be set to go off when you get close to your home or business via geo fencing. Automation devices can be accessed from anywhere with internet remotely via your smartphone, tablet, or computer. All automation devices come equipped with Total Connect remote services. With the tap of a finger, the Honeywell Total Connect Remote Services apps let you operate your security system, receive text messages and e-mail alerts – even view live video and control your thermostats, lighting and locks on your iPhone®, iPad® or Android™ devices. For more on Total Connect services click here.
Make your home a Smart Home Thermostats, Locks, Lights, and more.
Wireless Burglar Alarm System Versus a Hardwired System
When buying a burglar alarm system, a frequent question is what’s the difference between a wireless system and a hardwired system? The major difference is a wireless system can be moved whereas a hardwired system cannot be. If you have hardwired capability it just means when your building was under construction they took the time to prewire for a burglar alarm system. It also means your devices will not require batteries; whereas someone with a wireless system will have to replace theirs dependent on device usage.
If you have hardwired capability we always recommend using it for the simple fact that it’s more cost effective. You will generally gain more coverage for less than you would pay for a wireless system. However, this isn’t the case for everyone. There are always unforeseen factors that can take place.
When would we recommend a wireless system? We recommend a wireless system to renters or anyone who isn’t going to reside at their property permanently because it can be moved. We also recommend a wireless system if the location of your wiring is unclear or the wiring is bad.
Sometimes it can be hard to tell if you have a hardwired system. If you are unsure, contact a security professional like Shield Fire & Security to take a look.
More information
Check out our residential page or our commercial burglar alarm page to find out more information on burglar alarm systems.
Or check out our burglar alarm device manufacturer’s page Honeywell.
Shield Fire & Security will do a free security assessment of your home or business. We listen to your needs for security and will suggest the type of devices we feel is a good fit. So there is no need to worry if you are still unsure which devices to use. Shield Fire & Security prides itself on educating customers to ensure we meet your expectations.
