Is a Ford Fiesta the same as a Lincoln Town Car? After all, they’re both automobiles, both made by the same company, both derive their power from engines and are fueled by gasoline – so what’s the difference? Duh – there are plenty of differences.

And the same goes for almost all other consumer products, including home security systems. So, consider this blog a security system primer, featuring the features most of our clients want included. Some are essential, some are optional, and both do a good-to-great job of providing the kind of added security we know you want.

Security System Elements

Home security systems (also commonly known as “burglar alarm systems”) start by monitoring your home’s perimeter for any kind of opening, including a broken door or window. They do this by creating an electric circuit, open or closed.

Burglar alarm circuits can set off by door sensors that have magnetic switches embedded in the frame that align with a magnet in the door. When the door is closed, the switch is pulled shut and completes the circuit. When the door is opened, the circuit is broken, triggering the alarm relay. This same design is commonly used for window sensors, as well.

The alarm system is monitored by a control panel. It’s a mini-computer that arms the system and detects attempted or successful break-ins. The control panel has its own power supply, so a burglar cannot cut off the power before breaching the perimeter. When the circuit is broken, the control panel will either sound an audible alarm or alert the security company – in some cases, both.

Wired vs. Wireless

Just as upgrades in electronics technology have changed so much of how we live and work, they’ve similarly changed how most security systems operate today. Instead of being connected by electrical wires, window and door sensors now communicate with the control panel via a wireless radio frequency. The control panel may then communicate with you or the security company by either a wired or wireless connection – often Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or a cellular signal. These kinds of systems often work in conjunction with smart home systems, such as Z-Wave.

Smoke Detectors

Most security systems now come with smoke detectors. The advantage of these vs. the kind you would buy and install yourself is that they are connected to our dedicated monitoring system. So, if the detectors sense smoke or fire, we and your local fire department are simultaneously alerted for the protection of your home and family.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

CO detectors are less common than smoke detectors, but just as important. Carbon monoxide is odorless, tasteless, and colorless. Without a detector, there is no way to know this gas is present. This can be extremely dangerous—thousands of people go to the hospital each year from CO poisoning.

Video Security Cameras

Video security cameras integrated into your home security system offer a world of benefits unto themselves. Just the sight of the camera outside your home is usually enough to send a burglar packing. They aid in criminal identification plus, when installed indoors as well, enable you to keep an eye on your children when they’re not in your direct line of sight or away from home.  That’s right – home security cameras, with or without video cameras, now come with Wi-Fi-accessible devices.

And, to the extent that cost matters, insurance companies offer lower rates for homes with security alarm systems. To learn more or schedule a free at-home security analysis and new system proposal, contact Now Security Systems today.