Various Types Of Home Security Systems
Published by Adriana Noton on 2010-07-29 08:06:51
As a homeowner, or even if you just rent, security likely falls very high on your list of concerns. You have probably considered the installation of home security systems as an added measure of protection. This is a good step to take, but first you must decide between the many types of systems available. Below are some of the major differences between them to allow you to make an informed decision on what kind will work for you.
Monitored and Non-Monitored
This is one of the major distinctions between types of home alarms. If you have a monitored system it is tied to your phone lines and observed constantly by operators at the issuing company. If something trips the alarm, the operators are notified and place a call to the homeowner. If the homeowner answers the phone and can provide the operator with the password they have previously set up the operator will turn the alarm off. If no one picks up the phone or if the person on the other end does not know the password the authorities are called right away. The disadvantage to this though is that if anything tampers with the phone lines, such as bad weather or deliberate sabotage, the alarm is useless. If your alarm is non-monitored it is not actually connected to an external source, but instead works by setting off blaring sirens and flashing lights when tripped. This will usually scare the burglar away, and can alert neighbors to a problem. This, though, has its own downside in that it does depend on said neighbors to actually alert the police.
Indoor and Outdoor
Another major factor in your alarm system will be where you want it installed. Indoor systems rely on sensors around all the entrances to your home, generally the windows and doors, and motion detectors inside the rooms to sense any movement. The homeowner can turn the alarm on and off by using a code or a remote controller, so it only needs to be activated when no one is expected to be in the home. Outdoor systems are basically the same thing, but also monitor the area around your house. They include floodlights and extra motion sensors in the yard and driveway in order to intercept a potential intruder before he or she can even arrive at an entrance. The biggest disadvantage here, however, is that being outside means there is much more potential for a false alarm, such as a big animal or a car using your driveway to make a U-turn.
Hardwired and Wireless
The main difference here is a balance of reliability and convenience. Wireless systems have the advantage of convenience and ease of installation. Because they are not wired in they can also be taken anywhere the homeowner may move to in the future. Yet they are also seen as less reliable because certain types of interference can potentially make the signal go out, just like wireless internet or a cell phone signal. Also, the homeowner assumes the responsibility of checking and changing the batteries periodically. All components also must be sure to be placed within sensing range of each other. Hardwired systems have no issues with distance or signal interference, and since they are electric one never needs to worry about batteries running out. However, they do require professional installation and cannot be taken along if you decide to move.
Home security systems are a very good idea to install if you wish to safeguard your home. Make your own decision on what will work for you.
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