Basic Guide to Residential Burglar Alarm System

Residential burglar alarm systems are often smaller in coverage and number of devices than commercial ones. The main objective of an effective burglar alarm system is to detect environmental or physical changes, determine whether the event poses immediate threat and respond accordingly by sending out signals to designated parties. 

Detections are usually done by sensors placed in strategic key points. Some of the common sensors used in a residence include:

PIR sensor: These are also known as motion sensors. They can be further sub-classified into perimeter sensor, wall sensor or ceiling sensor. Each of these types has its own advantages & disadvantages. 

Shock sensor: These are sensors detecting vibration from forcible entry. 

Smoke detector: These are alarms installed in rooms or hallways for detecting early stages of fire. Over the years, optical types have gradually replaced ionization types as the main type of smoke detector for its reliability. 

Carbon Monoxide detector: These are also known as CO detectors. Carbon Monoxide is an odorless & colorless gas that can be dangerous if inhaled in excess. Excess accumulation of these particles most often happen in kitchen or enclosed space. 

Door contact: These are magnetic switches placed on edge of a door & doorframe for detecting opening & closing of doors. 

Window contact: These are magnetic switches placed on edge of a window & window frame for detecting opening & closing of windows.

When abnormal detection is sensed by one of the devices listed above, it will send signal to the alarm control panel which will then decide to disregard the input or send out signal output to sirens and notify the owner/alarm receiving center.

Depending on the complexity of the control panel, keypad can be part of the panel or mounted somewhere else in the residence, typically near the entrance of exit of the house for ease of access. The keypad can be used for setting zones, disarming and arming the system.

For more information on type of burglar alarm system, please contact our specialists for further details.