So you want to get a home alarm system and you are just getting started.  If this is the case, step into my classroom!  The basic home alarm system is made up of a control panel, keypad, siren, door and window sensors, motion detector, and if you choose, a central monitoring station.  Let’s take a look at each component.

          Control Panel

          This is basically the brains of the system and is home to the CPU (Central Processing Unit.)  Based on information it receives from the keypad and alarm sensors, it decides when to sound the sirens and/or report to the central monitoring station.

          Keypad

          This is the device used to arm and disarm the system and also where you silence a sounding alarm by punching in a code.  The code is a series of number that you usually are allowed to pre-program.  In addition, most keypads have a panic button to sound off the alarm or to notify the monitoring service.

          Siren

          This is the device that makes a loud alarming noise once it is triggered by the control panel, given there has been a break in or a panic button pushed. 

          Door and Window Sensors

          These are magnetic sensors that form a circuit between door and door frame or a window and sill.  Here’s how it works – when the door or window is opened, given the home alarm is on, the circuit is broken and sounds the alarm.

          Motion Detector

          This is a passive infrared (PIR) device that detects body heat.  A motion detector mounted in the corner of a room near a ceiling is usually enough to monitor the whole room.  Remember, special motion detectors are available for people who have pets.

          Central Monitoring Station

            This is a 24 hour monitoring facility that is established for the purpose of monitoring home or building alarms.  When an alarm is activated the control panel sends a signal that is transmitted to the central monitoring station.  The station then sends for help from the police, fire department, or EMS.  Some central monitoring stations have their own security team that they dispatch.

          Depending on what type of alarm you decide to buy, some systems combine the control panel, keypad, and siren all into one unit.

          If you do decide to buy a home alarm then there are additional devices that I advise you to buy to help keep your house and family safe.

          Smoke Detectors

          Smoke detectors provide an early warning of smoke and fire and should be installed throughout the house.  This is a must if you don’t already have smoke detectors installed - and if you do, it doesn’t hurt to install more!  This is especially true with the added perk of notifying the monitoring service when the alarm sounds. 

          Pressure Mats

          Basically, this is a flat switch operated by pressure from a foot step.  The mats are usually installed under carpeting next to entrances, windows, and stairways.

            Glass Break Detectors

          These devices recognize the sound of glass breaking and will set off the alarm if activated.

          Before you make a purchase you should know that there is no such thing as a home alarm that is 100% burglar proof.  However, a good home alarm can deter or detect most intruders and will give you an added sense of security.