Home Security Equipment Explained

Home security equipment used to be a luxuryenter a home by breaking glass windows or doors.
reserved for the rich and famous; but these days,* Door switches are made of two components: a
countless companies provide average homeownersswitch and a magnet. The switch is sensitive to a
with reliable security systems. While the equipment canmagnetic field and is mounted on a fixed structure like
vary depending on the company or manufacturer, alla door or window frame. The magnet is mounted on
systems are comprised of the same basic equipment.the door next to the switch. If the door is opened while
1. Keypad: This is a small box with a numberedthe system is activated, the magnet will move away
faceplate that performs two main functions: to initiatefrom the switch and will trigger the alarm.
security commands, and to display the status of the* Motion detectors will pick up on changes in infrared
security system. Keypads include an alphanumericenergy. Available in three levels of security (standard,
keypad and an LED display. Homeowners enter apet-friendly and harsh environment outdoor devices)
predetermined code to activate the alarm when theymotion detectors alert the system to trigger the alarm
are leaving the property, and to deactivate it whenwhen an intruder enters the open space.
they return home. Many keypads include a panic3. Cameras: Not all home security equipment
switch to alert the system immediately in case ofpackages include cameras, but the added protection
emergency, as well as a bypass function that lets thethey provide can be worth the additional investment.
homeowner customize the system to bypass areasCameras collect and transmit visual images of
where family members may be present. The LEDintruders, and show the images on a video monitor.
display shows the status of the alarm system; that is,4. Monitors: Working with security cameras, video
whether or not the system is active.monitors allow homeowners or security personnel the
2. Sensors: These protect the perimeter of the home,opportunity to watch the property and see potential
as well as open spaces inside. Most common sensorsintruders before the break-in occurs. The information is
used in home security equipment are window vibrationtransmitted through coaxial cables from the cameras.
detectors, magnetic door or window switches and5. Some security systems will include more than one
acoustical detectors. These sensors are installed oncamera. Switchers process images generated by
doors and windows to prevent intruders from enteringseveral cameras, and enable the operators to switch
the house. Space protection sensors can also befrom camera to camera to scan a large area of
installed to detect intruders within hallways and interioractivity.
rooms.Home security equipment is varied in terms of quality
* Window acoustic and vibration detectors are able toand price. Shop around before you buy, to determine
detect the sound of breaking glass, and then triggerthe package that is best suited to protect your home
the alarm. These devices make it nearly impossible toand family.