With so many different security products and technologies on the market today, it’s no wonder people are confused about what alarm system is best and what features they need it to have.

To help you, we’ve put together a simple explanation of some of the most common products relating to home alarm systems.  But remember, before you go ahead and buy a system off the shelf or make any decisions, it’s a good idea to discuss your needs with an experienced security professional to make sure you’re not compromising on your safety or level of protection.

Mirror optic passive infrared sensors

These devices use an advanced mirror structure combined with sophisticated system of signal processing to produce ‘curtain barriers’ which detect infrared radiation from an intruder.   Depending on the product, these sensors can detect the size, speed, shape and duration of the signal and if it matches a human shape, the detector can initiate an alarm or other appropriate response.

Photo electric beams

Photo-electric beams are commonly used for perimeter security and can protect and monitor a large area.  They comprise a transmitter and a receiver and if the light beam is blocked from reaching the receiver, an alarm signal is triggered.

Glass break sensors

Unlike door and window sensors which detect when a door or window is forced open, a glass break sensor will trigger the alarm system when glass is smashed.    These sensors work by picking up shockwaves resulting from sound or vibration from a sensor that is installed directly on the window or glass door.  You can also get acoustic glass break sensors which can detect the specific frequency from breaking glass through a small microphone.

Magnetic reed switches

A reed switch is an electromagnetic switch used to control the flow of electricity in a circuit.  When used in a security alarm, these are usually discreetly installed in doors and windows that open to the outside.  The contacts are together when the window or door is closed, but once the distance between them exceeds around 1.25cm, the magnetic field on the switch is removed, resulting in a break in the alarm circuit.  This then triggers the alarm.

Heat detectors vs smoke detectors

A heat detector reacts to the change in temperature caused by a fire and when activated, it will trigger the fire sprinklers or other type of fire suppression system.  A smoke detector detects airborne contaminants contained in smoke.  A smoke detector is usually more expensive than a heat detector, but it is a much earlier warning system when fire is developing, slow burning or smouldering and enables occupants and first responders to react sooner.

Personal duress button

These take many different shapes and forms and may be installed in a fixed location in a property, hidden out of sight in premises where danger may be encountered or used by someone as a handheld device, a pendant or a smartwatch.  Depending on their specific functionality, personal duress buttons (or panic buttons) can activate responses from security or emergency services, and can also be enabled to perform other functions using GPS such as communication (‘checking in’), increases in speed (if the wearer is in a car), tracking sudden movements (which may suggest a fall) and location tracking.

A professional security company like Crown Security in Perth uses a wide variety of advanced devices and products to provide customers with customised security solutions that meet their specific needs.  Some people may only need perimeter security with infrared motion sensors, others may want a fully integrated, state-of-the-art alarm system with 24/7 monitoring – and the best way to discover your ideal solution is to talk to the experts.

Crown Security has been at the forefront of security alarm systems in Perth for over 20 years, so why not have a chat to their friendly team on 08 9400 6000