Keypads
The keypad is where you arm or disarm your system. Your security system should be armed when your facility is empty and disarmed when you, or an authorized person, enter your home.
A modern keypad also has an illuminated display to inform you of the security system status. This is important because you cannot arm the system if, for example, a door or window sensor is not closed. The keypad display will tell you which door or window you need to check before you can arm your system.
Your installer will normally mount the keypad near your entry door so that you can disarm quickly after entering the premises. However, the keypad should not be visable from the outside - you don't want a perpetrator to know the status of your security system if you forgot to arm it!
Home Security Systems:
Home security is important to everyone regardless of whether you live in a house, condo or are renting an apartment. Group One Safety & Security has been in the business of protecting lives and property since 1984. We provide all our clients with security solutions to meet their individual needs, with user-friendly, state-of-the-art technology and hometown customer service.
A residential security system is designed to detect an event such as motion in a room, decides if the event poses a threat, and then acts on that decision.
The security system components that detect an event are called sensors. Here are some of the most common sensors that may be used to protect your home:
Door and window contacts
A door/window contact is a switch that can indicate the opening of door or window. All door/window contacts, no matter how sophisticated, operate on the same principle. The switch is mounted to a door or window and is held closed by a magnet attached to door or window frame. When the door or window moves away from the magnet, the switch opens. The alarm control panel knows if the contact is open or shut, and keeps track of the doors and windows.
Door contacts should be installed on every exterior door. In addition, window contacts should be installed on all windows, unless the security system design calls for glass break or motion sensors.
Glass Break Sensors
A glass break sensor is another alternative for protecting large spaces with multiple, fixed windows. It constantly listens for the sound of breaking glass that indicates forced entry. When the glass break sensor detects the sound pattern caused by shattering glass, it sends an electronic signal to the alarm control panel.
Motion Sensors
A motion sensor (often called a space detector, or a motion detector) is designed to sense movement in a given area. The motion detector allows you to protect a large area with one sensor. They are the logical choice for spaces that intruders can access from several directions, such as rooms with many windows.
Other Sensors
Other devices include shock sensors, that detect an intruder trying to pound his way through a wall, and panic buttons which allow you to send a fast, discreet call for help. In addition, a modern security system can incorporate environmental sensors that react to the presence of water (which may indicate a broken pipe) or a rise in temperature (which may be caused by an air conditioning failure). Environmental sensors are especially critical in server rooms and other areas that house sensitive electronics.