Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Alarm Systems: Commercial Uses

We have all heard of alarm systems by now. Many of us have them on our cars and even in our homes. Alarm systems have many commercial uses as well. In fact, some of the first alarm systems were actually not used in homes and private properties but in commercial properties.

They are still used frequently today. In fact, you will be hard pressed to find a public building or commercial property that does not have some sort of alarm system in it.

These alarm systems are used for many different reasons. Some may be used to protect the facility from intruders or theft but there are also other reasons. One other safety reason may be fire, smoke and toxic gasses.

Who Uses Commercial Alarm Systems?

Some examples of when alarm systems are used commercially would include:

• Banks
• Convenience stores
• Retail outlets
• Malls
• Public facilities after hours
• Multi-family living areas
• Educational facilities
• Schools
• Libraries
• Public and government offices
• Healthcare facilities
• Mixed use facilities

These are just some of many great commercial uses for alarm systems. Pretty much any public or commercial building or facility is going to have some sort of alarm system. Even places that are open 24 hours a day have an alarm system in case something happens. Many of these have high tech alarm systems with surveillance and more and others are simple and basic.

Monday, August 3, 2009

Easy Tips for Repairing Alarm Systems

Many people now have alarm systems in their homes to help them remain safe. Many more have alarm systems in their businesses and workplaces. In fact, almost all commercial properties now have alarm systems set up in them for protection. Just like anything else, your alarm system will require regular maintenance to make sure it is working how it should.

Alarm system repair is very important if you want to keep your alarm system working properly. If you have an alarm system in your home or in commercial use, you understand how important it is to you and the safety of your property. Some problems with the alarm system may be due to compatibility issues with a hard wired system or EMI (electromagnetic interference) with a wireless system. Dead batteries are also a common reason for an alarm to not be functioning properly.

Signs You Need Repair Services

What are some signs that your alarm system might need repair? Well, it depends on the type of system that you have but in many cases it is a sign if your keypad is beeping and warning you there is something wrong with your phone line or that your batteries are dead.

Another sign that there may be a problem is if the system sounds the alarm when it has not been triggered or has a lot of false alarms. You should never try to fix or repair the alarm on your own. You can do more damage, cause the equipment to become faulty or void your warranty on the alarm system or parts. Make sure if you suspect something is wrong with the alarm system, you call the professionals immediately.

Call a Professional

If your system is not warranted and you need to call a professional repair person, make sure you call someone with the experience to do your job for you. Your personal home security system is not an area where you want someone who doesn’t really know what they are doing.

Do your homework and choose someone certified with good references.

Don’t be afraid to look into their background or ask questions. A true professional in this line of work will understand completely why you are asking and will not have a problem with it.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

Do You Know How the Alarm Monitoring System Works

In this article on modern home security devices and their workings, we concentrate mainly on the advantages a home owner has over others like him by investing in a quality unit for burglar alarm monitoring systems.

The main purpose of a good burglar alarm is to alert the homeowner or even small office owner about any unlawful entry on their premises and thus prevent burglaries from taking place; these units can also be connected to others such as central security unit in an apartment dwelling or bungalow style house or even the street-watch guard help, if there is one for your local beat.

Thus, from the alert, which comes in electronic form, security breaches can be detected and details sent across through sensors connected to main unit or other close-by control units, which act on pre-determined modes to announce the alarm has been set-off and suitable action may now be taken by those at the control unit.

You can opt for either type of home security device if buying a burglar alarm system, such as a hardwired or wireless monitoring system, depending on your budget, whether you plan on installing it yourself or hiring someone and of course, the kind of neighborhood you live in (e.g. a rough neighborhood calls for advanced security breach information gadgets, so don’t stint on this).

If you want to buy the wired system for burglar alarm monitoring, check for the whole enchilada offered by home security device manufacturers, such as smoke sensors and heat sensors besides those working on re-chargeable power and having back-up to be extra reliable.

Of course, these raise the cost of the units considerably, but seeing the benefits they provide of extra security to the homeowner and peace of mind with it, they are well worth the investment, feel most consumers. These kinds may also be equipped to handle cases of tampering so give you your money’s worth; that aside, you may require some amount of dexterity with handling wires and home improvement projects to put this up.

For the wireless burglar alarms however, the cost is considerably reduced as many new manufacturers in the global market have added to consumer options and thus, with competition high, the prices are low to ensure sales. Do remember to read about user feedback and proper usage of these to ensure you are buying a quality product as there are many good websites to guide you on this purchase; don’t make it in a hurry and don’t compromise on quality for home security should be tops on your list of things to do in today’s days.

What makes the wireless burglar alarms easy to install and use is the fact these utilize transmitters and call for a fair bit of maintenance if you want efficient operation (yes, that’s why they come cheap); check batteries have adequate power and sensors are in working condition and do so regularly.

You can also buy the remote alarm output where control panels are linked to pre-decided monitoring systems that can be configured in different ways, including direct connection to a responder/central security unit or local police head quarters. These are the most exclusive kinds and naturally require you to loosen your purse-strings a fair bit! But the peace of mind is sure worth it!

Wednesday, July 1, 2009

Benefits Of Monitored Alarm Systems

With so many different types of alarm systems out there, it can sometimes be difficult to choose the right type for your needs. If you are in the market for an alarm system, you should know the benefits of a monitored alarm system.

You can then set out to make a more informed decision about what type of alarm system you need for your home and to meet your needs. You certainly don’t want to get more alarm system than you need or spend too much money on fancy gadgets and features that you won’t use but at the same time, if you’re going to get an alarm system, you may as well get a good one that really meets your needs.

Sometimes monitored alarm systems can cost more than other types but here are some reasons why the extra expense is well worth it:

• Emergency response - Police will respond quicker to a monitored alarm system. They do not always respond to a bell-only alarm unless they have other cause to believe a crime is being committed.

• Duress Signal - This feature allows you to send a secret code if you are forced to turn off the alarm. The invader will never know that when you turned off the alarm, your secret code called for help.

• Personal Attack feature - A personal attack signal from your alarm system will send the police immediately.

• Fire Safety - Have the added security of a fire alarm that will call for help as well as wake you up quickly enough that you and members of the household can get out in time.

• Other harmful gases - In addition to fire and smoke, you can have a carbon monoxide fire detector to warn you and your family as well as call for help.

• Emergency assistance - Your alarm system may also have an emergency assistance button on the panel and they can help you get assistance.

• False Alarm management - False alarms do happen and monitored alarm systems offer you a better way to deal with these when they occur.

There are other benefits to choosing a monitored alarm system for use in your home but there are some of the biggest ones. You should now be able to make a better, more informed decision about your home security needs.

Monitoring For Alarm Systems

Do you have a need for an alarm system? Almost everyone has seen a home alarm system at some point even if you have never had one in your own home. If so, then you probably know that there are many different options for you out there.

Some home alarm systems are just bells that alarm when the system is triggered but a monitoring system provides you with more than that. This type of system can help protect your home even when you are not there. It will call emergency services when needed and report if there is a fire, break in or any other problem at your home. There are also many other extras that come with a monitoring type alarm system. You will have to talk to your alarm system company to find out exactly what is available to you and what your options are.

Some are the reasons why you might choose alarm system monitoring for yourself are:

1. it’s easy to manage. You do not have to be a highly technical person to try to operate it or figure out how to use it.

2. It offers the best protection. It will offer you the best possible protection; more than what a bell-only system will offer you.

3. More gadgets and options. When you choose alarm system monitoring you can get many extra gadgets such as remote functions, key fobs, etc.

4. 24/7 monitoring. You will have a trained professional watching your home 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for added security.

5. Full service features. You can work with one professional that offers you many different services.

For example, you can have

Why wait to choose a home alarm system for your family and home? Feel secure while you are away and even when you are at home or at night sleeping when you have alarm system monitoring.

Make sure you find out all the facts before signing up for a particular monitoring alarm system service. You will want to find out what your total costs will be including installation and if there will be any monthly charges that you will have to maintain for the monitoring services. Take the time to do it right and your home will remain safe.

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Choosing And Using A Wireless Home Security System

If you're considering home security, you should take a look at a wireless monitored home security system. More traditional burglar alarm and security systems had to be hard-wired into the home. They were expensive, difficult to install, and hard to repair.

A modern wireless monitored home security system has many advantages.

  • easier and faster installation
  • no elaborate cable or wiring
  • anytime, anywhere home monitor
  • lithium battery for power failures
  • remote arm and disarm function
  • camera coverage for large areas outside
  • easy relocation

Using a wireless monitored home security system provides home and business owners with the ability to easily monitor activity in your home. Parents can go to work and keep an eye on children, babysitters, service workers, and repairmen. Imagine being able to dispute a repairman who claims to have done more than was needed! You can keep a watch on unattended pets. You can keep an eye on the back yard to monitor and catch young vandals.

You have many choices in selecting and configuring your wireless monitored home security system. You can use one or many cameras to cover the most vulnerable areas on your property. You can select cameras that operate well in low-light or infrared cameras that monitor dark areas.

Wireless monitored home security systems can serve many other purposes. Web cams are inexpensive and easy to set up. You can install a camera in the nursery to keep a watchful eye on the baby or in the garage to monitor hubby's progress on car repairs. You can use a camera in the playroom or den to be sure the kids aren't into mischief and the dog's not eating the sofa.

Most wireless monitored home security systems can accommodate up to 16 cameras, so you'll be assured of adequate video coverage of your property. And the system can be customized to meet your unique needs. For additional savings, many homeowners have chosen to buy a wireless home security kit. Unless you're tech-savvy, though, you should probably ask a professional to do the installation. Using equipment you purchased, installation should be affordable.

A standard wireless monitored home security kit sells for about $100 online and comes with many useful options. They include a range of multiple zone options, loud sirens with different tones for different types of emergency (for example, a different alarm for a burglar as for a fire). They also include both exterior and interior sensors, door and window chimes, and status indicators for visual images.

Accessories and add-ons on the market include rechargeable battery back-ups, smoke detectors, exterior sirens, voice dialers, glass break sensors, and subscriptions to monitoring services. While you can choose to monitor your home yourself, you may find that task overwhelming. You can't be available all the time to monitor your system, so it's a wise decision to subscribe to a home security service that can monitor your home for an affordable monthly fee.

When deciding how to configure your wireless monitored home security system, there are several things you should have decided. You'll need to know what areas in your home and on your property you want to monitor. Know what level of lighting you have and what types of cameras you'll need. Decide what areas you want to monitor and how many cameras it will take.

Then take your requirements to a wireless monitored home security specialist at local stores and ask for recommendations. Look at several brands and models to get a good comparison and to meet your needs at the lowest possible cost. When you know what you want, you can shop online for great deals. You can find a huge variety of wireless monitored home security systems at online stores and auction services.

One caution. Be sure your new wireless monitored home security system will not interfere with, or be interrupted by, other wireless equipment in your home. Wireless internet connections and cordless phones can reduce efficient and effective system operations. Be sure your wireless monitored home security system operates on a different frequency that will not compete with existing wireless equipment and appliances.

Friday, June 19, 2009

Buy Wireless Burglar Alarm For Home Security

Wireless Burglar AlarmCrime is a major concern in today's world, and no one's home is immune from break-ins and burglary. More and more homes are being protected by home security systems, and the home security industry is booming. If you're thinking replacing or installing a home security system, consider the advantages of a wireless burglar alarm.

Due to increasing demand, the security industry is producing a variety of new and innovative home security systems. The wireless burglar alarm is an outstanding new product in high demand.

Wireless burglar alarms and home security systems don't need extensive cables or wiring. They use radio waves for communications from sensor to control panel. They make effective use of motion and sound detectors, combined with window and door contacts, to alert you and your security service when an emergency occurs. The central keypad controls and directs the system, and most systems allow the homeowner to arm and disarm their system with a remote, portable control.

Wireless burglar alarms and home security systems consist of these major components:


Central Control Panel. The wireless burglar alarm's brain is the control panel. Usually located in a cabinet, in the cellar or attic, the control panels receives wireless signals from sensors that monitor vulnerable spots in the home. When a sensor detects intrusion, fire, or gas leaks, it sends an alert to the control panel. The control panel sounds the alarm and, in most cases, notifies the security service or local police, fire department, or emergency service.

Keypad. The keypad is used to activate, deactivate, and test the wireless burglar alarm and home security system. Usually located near entry doors or the master bedroom, users enter a specific code to operate the system. Keypads are easier to use than earlier systems, and they usually include a LED screen or panel that makes them easier to see at night. Most keypads also have single-touch alarm "panic" buttons for fire or medical emergencies.

Magnetic Contacts. These contacts are used to monitor windows and doors. When the magnet signal is interrupted by the door or window being opened, the switch trips the system alarm.

Sensors. Home security systems use infrared sensors that can detect motion or body heat that enters the infrared beam. Also called Passive Infrared Sensors (or PIRs), these sensors are used when no one is home, and they're located in areas where a door or window magnet contact is not practical or where a larger area needs to be covered. They also alert the control panel when they detect motion or body heat, and an alarm sounds.

Cameras. Security cameras are added protection in wireless burglar alarm and home security systems. They allow the homeowner to monitor vulnerable areas with a video monitor and to record activity when hooked up to a VCR. They make the wireless burglar alarm system more versatile, as the cameras can be placed in nurseries to keep a careful eye on infants or on the exterior of the home to monitor large yards. They make it possible to identify visitors and to record an image of burglars for later law enforcement efforts. It is possible to use infrared cameras that can monitor and record in the dark as well.

Monitoring Service. While a wireless burglar alarm system can be used separately, this added service provides for constant monitoring and communication about emergencies from another location through a security service company. The control panel is configured to send the signal to the security company using radio waves, and the security service tracks signals and monitors for alarms. When an alarm sounds, the security service contacts local law enforcement or emergency services to get a prompt and appropriate response. Services are affordable, and greatly enhance the effective protection from wireless burglar alarms.

It's time to move up in the world of home security technology. Wireless burglar alarms are easy to install, easy to use, and effective protection for your family, your home, and your possessions.