Wireless Security System Overview

By: Alastair Lydeard

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 burglar alarm without wires is the simple explanation for a wireless home security system. They communicate with radio waves instead of over wires. Thus the burglar is unable to determine which wires to cut to disable the alarm.

The two main types of wireless burglar alarms are unmonitored and monitored. If an intruder is detected, unmonitored systems sound a loud alarm that is audible in the home and for a short distance outside. If you live in the countryside, these systems are not ideal, because if you are not at home, neighbors may not be able to hear the alarm, so no one will know about the break in. Monitored services, on the other hand, detect a break-in and then send a signal to security company staff, who determine whether it is a real burglary, and then call the 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.

Magnetic contacts are attached to doors and windows. These small, inconspicuous devices consist of two parts: a switch installed inside the window or door jam, and a magnet placed on the door or window. If the distance between the magnet and switch increases, as in the case of forced entry, the control panel will receive a signal and sound the alarm.

Large open spaces such as hallways can be equipped with wireless body sensors or motion detectors. Infrared motion or body heat changes are detected and a signal is sent to the main control panel. The panel gauges whether the movement is a person, and then sounds the alarm or alerts the monitoring station staff.

To enter or leave your home, the wireless security system must be deactivated or activated. You simply enter the password on a keypad near the main entrance to your home, making setting the alarm easy to do. Remote control devices also come with some systems, just like car alarms, so that owners can operate some features from a distance. Some systems allow owners to switch lights off or on remotely, giving the appearance of a home that is occupied.

Some wireless systems also use hidden or wall-mounted cameras that are connected to a video unit and VCR. All movement detected on the cameras is recorded by the VCR. Depending on the system, the cameras may be monitored by staff at the security company.

If you've decided to invest in the peace of mind and security of a home security system, be sure to consider the added advantages of a wireless system. The advanced features and stronger security may make it your best choice.



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Author Alastair Lydeard loves contributing to various well-known web sites, on family vacation and diesel truck part issues.
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