Considerations Before Installing A Hardwired Security System

Hardwired home security systems are higher quality, more secure systems, but require significantly more installation work. If you are considering installing a hardwired system yourself, there are several things to know.

Options and devices include hardwire door chimes, hardwire brace wires, hardwire telephone, and other keys and accessories.

A savvy installer can complete work in less than an hour. Although hardwired systems generally do take longer to install than wireless systems, they are considered worthwhile for the extra time and effort. The typical hardwired security system will come with an alarm control panel and a keypad control to turn the system on and off.

You can even purchase a low cost hardwired security system from some reputable and established companies at a significantly less than you will find at major national home security system companies. The basic materials you will need to install your hardwired home security system are Continue reading

Wireless Security System Perks

There are many reasons to install a home security system including deterring theft, monitoring the safety and security of your pets while you are away, alerting you of intruders, and simply providing you peace of mind.

If you are thinking of installing a security system, you should consider selecting a wireless home security system. There are many highly effective models on the market today and they are a lot easier and less expensive to install than a hardwired system. A wireless home security system will provide you with all the benefits of a great security system without the hassle and mess of having to drill holes and dig under your house to have it installed.

Many different companies make wireless home security systems. One of the most popular companies is ADT which offers its comprehensive Family Package. When the alarm is triggered Continue reading

Wired or Wireless

Homeowners today have more options than ever. Thanks to technological advances, home security systems have new modes and options. When considering a system for your home, you’ll have the difficult decision of figuring out whether to go wired or wireless.

There are advantages and disadvantages to both, and when comparing hardwire versus wireless systems, it is crucial to take many factors into consideration.

Hardwired security systems have many distinct advantages. Professionals consider them more reliable than wireless systems. They are typically installed by a professional contractor, which means you can be assured in knowing that the installation was done correctly. They are usually less visible and therefore more aesthetically pleasing than wireless systems. Most importantly, hardwired systems don’t depend on batteries if you want power failure backup protection.

However, wireless systems have their Continue reading

Top Reasons to add IP Home Video Surveillance

Technology continues to make home security better and more affordable. While in the past, home video surveillance has been costly and required professional installation, IP video cameras have made home video enabled security systems available to the common man. Anyone with a high-speed Internet connection can install securely encoded cameras that use Internet as their means of networking. This means minimal installation efforts and low equipment coats.

Here are a few reasons to consider IP home video surveillance for your security systems:

  • Utilizes existing IP infrastructure.
  • Highly scalable.
  • Flexible camera placement: PoE eliminates need for local power source; Wi-Fi eliminates need for hard-wired ethernet cable. Wi-Fi has even become synonymous with the more generic term “wireless.”
  • Remote viewing from anywhere/anytime via a standard Web browser.
  • Standards-based, allowing multi-vendor solutions and integration.
  • Better image quality than closed circuit TV (CCTV) analog systems.

Police Tips For a Safer Home

Make your home look occupied, and make it difficult to break in.

Lock all outside doors and windows before you leave the house or go to bed. Even if it is for a short time, lock your doors.

Leave lights on when you go out. If you are going to be away for a length of time, connect some lamps to automatic timers to turn them on in the evening and off during the day.

Keep your garage door closed and locked.

Don’t allow daily deliveries of mail, newspapers or flyers build up while you are away. Arrange with the Post Office to hold your mail, or arrange for a friend or neighbor to take them regularly.

Arrange for your lawn to be mowed if you are going away for an extended time.

Check your locks on doors and windows and replace them with secure devices as necessary.

Push button locks on doorknobs are easy for burglars to open. Install Continue reading

Police Say Security Systems Matter

Despite recent concerns about false alarms and their inordinate cost to the public, police continue to favor security systems as a critical component of crime prevention.

A survey sponsored by the Security Equipment Industry Association and conducted by StatResources of Boston revealed most police believe security systems are effective.

  • 85% of police officials believe that security systems decrease chances of residences being burglarized.
  • 90% of police say a business is less likely to be burglarized if it has a security system.
  • 90% of police officials feel that a security system increases the probability of a burglar being apprehended.
  • 85% of chiefs surveyed say they have encouraged installation of electronic security systems in homes or businesses in their communities.

Necessary Precautions are a Must

Although security systems are meant to deter burglars, nothing is fool proof. If a thief decided to take what he could in the little time before your security system company and police responded, take caution. Don’t be a hero and work with authorities to achieve the best outcome.

Do not enter – the perpetrator may still be inside.

Use a neighbor’s phone to call police.

Do not touch anything or clean up until the police have inspected for evidence.

Write down the license plate numbers of any suspicious vehicles.

Note the descriptions of any suspicious persons.

Use the following precautions to prevent future incidents:

Never leave keys under doormats, flowerpots, mailboxes or other “secret” hiding places – burglars Continue reading

Construction Security Systems

Unfortunately, today even contractors have to worry about security on work sites. While traditionally, live security guards and locks have been the contractor’s primary defense, modern technology has created new opportunities and safeguards.

Installing and monitoring closed circuit television. Closed circuit television (CCTV) has been shown to be effective in deterring property crime. Evaluations of CCTV reveal that it is effective when an adequate number of cameras cover a particular area as well as on sites with limited and controlled access points. In order to provide such coverage, portable towers equipped with cameras can be placed at strategic site locations.

Security systems can be a cost-effective deterrent in high risk areas. There are a number of different alarms available, including wireless security systems that can be adapted to the environment – for example, for use in onsite storage containers. Some wireless security systems can be installed at any stage of the construction, without the need for pre-wiring or other electrical work. Signs indicating that Continue reading

Security System Operation FAQ

Q: Will my pet set off my security system?

A: Most of security systems installed today can distinguish between pets and people. Even the most basic motion detector will not register any pet up to 40lbs. If you have a bigger pet or multiple pets, you can request the 100lb motion detector.

Q: Will a home security system report to the central station if the phone line is cut?

A: No. A security system cannot contact the monitoring station if the phone line is not available. Some systems have a backup long range radio which can be installed for this type of situation.

Q: How can I help to prevent false alarms from my security system?

A: Get familiar with the arming and disarming of your system. Educate anyone who uses your system. And test the system on a regular basis basis; monthly or weekly is suggested. Make sure that all of the components are working properly and positioned clear of dirt and dust Continue reading

Security System Maintenence FAQ

Q: How long do batteries typically last?

A: The battery life will depend on the size of your security system. Many systems will have a battery that can last up to 8 hours.

Q: Can an electrical outage or power surge set off my alarm?

A: Yes. High-end security systems are sensitive electrical instruments and a strong, sudden surge can cause it to trigger.

Q: What happens during power outages?

A: The battery will take over and will operate the security system until your full power is restored or the batteries are exhausted.

Q: How often should I test my security system? Continue reading