The need for home security cannot be overemphasized. Therefore, the security industry continues to offer constant solutions that meet different needs. Home protection is top among the areas that require 24/7 surveillance whether occupied or not. These security solutions help prevent intruders and other hazards that could cause harm or damage. For that reason, a home security system exists to do the job for you.
Home security systems have evolved over the years to more sophisticated and efficient solutions for a safe home. So, what is a home security system? Well, this is a collection of hardware electronic devices interconnected to provide home protection and security. They come in different sizes and packages. Therefore, homeowners have the liberty to choose what works for them.
Components of a Home Security System
Home security comprises more than one security device. All these security devices work together to ensure the total safety and security of your premises. Experts design them to perform different functions synchronized to offer a safe living environment for everyone. Here are the top components that you will find in a home security system:
Security cameras
Modern home security systems do not only have security cameras but smart security cameras. They include Wi-Fi connections for real-time data transmission. Therefore, users can live stream the camera footage remotely and get alerts upon the detection of people and/or movement.
Sensors
These include motion sensors installed on hallways and entryways. Therefore, they detect motion and send alerts as triggered. You can also find entry sensors sometimes known as contact sensors. These usually come in two parts: they attach one to the frame and the other to a window or door.
Contact sensors have magnets that indicate when the entry point is open or closed. They are perfect for use on windows and doors located on the ground floor.
Glass break sensor
Intruders tend to break windows instead of opening them to bypass the entry sensors. To address this issue, you can install a glass break sensor to take care of a glass break on your windows or doors. Once this happens, you will get a notification on your phone about the incident.
Sirens
These devices work by scaring away intruders when triggered. They will safeguard your home by letting intruders that the homeowner has received notification following their entry.
Keypad
You will need a keypad to enter a code for either arming or disarming your security system. Installers mount this device on the wall or place it securely on a flat surface. If not you can use a key fob, which is just like a car key. With this gadget, you can arm or disarm your security system too. It is good for remote use.
Panic buttons
We press a panic button to alert emergency services in case of a security breach. Professionals install these devices in areas within your reach so that you can press in good time to report an emergency.
Base Station
A base station in a home security system synchronizes all the interconnected devices in your home. This happens through a mobile app for users to get notifications as required. It is comparable to the main central station where the Internet of Things (IoT) security devices pass through.
Yard Sign and/or Window Stickers
These signs and stickers advertise that there is a security system in place. Burglars will hesitate to enter such premises once they see such stickers. Therefore, they also enhance security.
Smoke and Carbon dioxide detectors
These detectors alert users when the air is unsafe to breathe. Most importantly, they help users start to figure out the cause, which sometimes, is a fire incidence and so on.
There you have it. These are the main components and devices found in a robust home security system. However, you can get a customized security solution for your use. It all depends on what you need.
The Basic Working of Home Security Systems
Now that we know the main components of a security system, it is now time to understand how they work. Here is a detailed way of how these devices interconnect and function:
1. Connection to the base station
First, it is important to know that all the security system components connect to a base station. This is comparable to a communication center through which information is sent and received on a mobile platform.
2. Connection to a mobile app
Next in the setup of a security system is the connection to a mobile app. The application allows users to control and monitor everything from a remote location.
Most security systems use Wi-Fi, cellular network, or Bluetooth connection to mobile phones. In some cases, some systems have a battery backup and a landline connection to address power outage issues.
3. Arming and disarming your system
Users arm a security system when they are leaving the home. When they come back, they can now disarm it because they are within the home premises.
Arming or disarming a home security system happens on a keypad where the user inputs the security code for the system. You can also press a key fob, voice command, or mobile app to do so.
Nothing much happens when you disarm the system as security cameras stop recording. However, some sensors will remain in operation based on the design of your security system. When the system is on, sensors come on, and recording by cameras resumes.
Modern home security systems come with many advantages to users. This system of interconnected security devices works synchronously to enhance the safety of your home. Different devices serving different functions are centrally controlled and monitored to send you alerts following any security breach.
Final Thoughts
A home security system is not just one device checking the security of your premises. It is an assemblage of devices for detecting motion, intruders, fires, smoke, and break-ins in your home. The entire system works in a way to keep you informed on what is going on at your home. When the system is off and you did not turn it off, you will get a notification to confirm the changes.