Essential Home Security System Components

Electronic alarm systems consist of the control panel, sensors, a minimum of one keypad for disarming and arming the system, motion detectors and some form of a warning signal. Understanding the components in an alarm system is imperative to knowing what they do and what you need to secure the perimeter of your home.

Master Control Panel

This component is essentially the brains of the entire system. Based upon all of the information received from the alarm sensors and the keypad, it will determine whether it needs to report to the central monitoring station or sound the sirens. When it comes to hand-wired systems, master panels are often mounted inside of a closet, in the basement or in a metal cabinet.

Keypads

Keypads are the main command center for the system. It is here that you disarm and arm the system by entering your code into the keypad. Most of the time, the keypad has a panic button that can be pressed to activate the alarm and notify the proper departments of an emergency in your home. Since you need to enter your code upon entering into and exiting out of your home, you will want to place it next to the door that you use most often. Installing additional keypads in other locations is worth the extra cost for many individuals.

Sensors

A sensor is a magnetic switch that will trigger the alarm if a window or door is open. Part of the switch is installed on the window frame or door and the other part is applied to the window or door sash. Once the unit is open and the parts are separated, the current interruption will sound the alarm. A door sensor will provide you with enough time to enter and disarm the system before activating the sirens. When it comes to window sensors, you can mount them in a number of locations. As an extra layer of protection, you can install a special screen that will signal the alarm when cut or removed. Glass break sensors work well for those who try to thwart the system by breaking glass.

Motion Sensors

This electronic component detects body heat. Mounting a single unit in the corner of your room close to the ceilings will provide monitoring to the entire space. To avoid any potential false alarms, make sure it is located away from items that change temperature rapidly. If you have pets in the home, make sure the sensor is pet-friendly to prevent any accidental alarms from going off.

Lighting Control

Automatic lighting control provides you with comfort, convenience, energy savings and safety. Implementing dimmers, motion sensors, timers and occupancy sensors into your security system creates a natural and comfortable environment. Having a system that illuminates the house upon entering is a great means for equipping your security system with an added layer of protection. When an intruder enters into your home, bright lights greeting them will make many turn and flee from fear of being caught.

Honeywell offers a variety of different components that you can incorporate into your security system to make sure your home and everyone in it is protected at all costs. From video surveillance to an app that lets you monitor your system away from home, you can have it all in no time.

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