What are the Components of a Security System?
Security systems can vary widely in size and scale: from simple home alarms and small business surveillance systems to commercial-grade intrusion and detection systems. One system could even be comprised of enterprise-level networks that stretch across multiple locations.
Understanding the essential components of a security system is the best way to start your search for your home or business’s perfect safety solution. We will dive into each one in the paragraphs below.
Master Control Panel
Behind every security system, there is a master control panel, which acts as the brains of the entire operation. It is the central processing unit that houses the circuitry responsible for interpreting and executing the security program’s commands.
For a home security system, the master control panel is located both on your touchscreen alarm keypad and via Alarm.com. You can control and access the system from inside or outside of your home. Your cameras, monitors, smart switches, and detectors can be attached to this control panel and associated systems. For commercial uses, there is a security panel that acts as the main hub. This panel is hardwired into your system and able to give you back-end access to this as well.
Sensors
The broadest definition of a sensor is a device whose purpose is to detect changes in its environment and send the information to other electronics. Some examples of different sensors include:
- Passive infrared motion detectors
- Ultrasonic detectors
- Microwave detectors
- Magnetic switches
- Photoelectric beams
- Glass break detectors
- Pressure mats
- Impact-activated microphones
- Panic button
- Security cameras
- and more
This list goes on and on, and every sensor in a security system has unique features and types of signal transmission to consider. The number of options can be downright dizzying, but it’s worth investing the time upfront to learn about the possibilities and ensure your system provides the right level of protection for your home or business.
Sounding Device
Finally, the sounding device is the way your security system lets someone know there is a problem.
The sounding device for your security system may be designed to alert people inside the home or building that there is an issue and may include things like bells, chimes, horns, strobe lights, or voice evacuation systems. The sounding device could also be used to notify people outside of the home or building that there is an issue by silently alerting an outside monitoring company, triggering a notification to the owner, or even alerting emergency responders. Most security systems use some combination of sounding devices depending on the situation that occurs.
Long-term Investment
A security system is a long-term investment that should last you 15 or 20 years. That’s why it is wise to work with a professional to help you understand the complete picture of what is available to you. There is a plethora of options and features in each component category, and it’s important to consider what functions you want the security system to support both today and down the road. If you would like to learn more, give our team a call at 888-412-5356, and one of our specialists will help you figure out what would be necessary for your needs.
Explore Our Other Blogs
Emergency Egress 101 for Commercial Buildings
When people think about emergency egress, they usually picture exit signs and the nearest door. In reality, egress is the entire route occupants rely on to get out quickly and safely—often under heightened stress, reduced visibility, and crowded conditions. When a means of egress isn’t clear or usable, even a minor emergency can turn into…
Livly: A Modern Residential Community Experience
The Livly property and tenant management system is one of the most cutting-edge and all-inclusive apartment app experiences available today. The system offers low-cost technology and fully integrated experiences that pair well with a variety of existing property management systems. As a proud partner with Livly, FSS Technologies offers this trusted technology solution for both…
How to Prepare for a Fire Inspection
Updated May 2023 Most people learn how to react to fire alarms from a young age. The sharp, jarring noise of the sirens instantly notifies everyone within earshot of a possible emergency and the need to evacuate. These fire safety alarm systems are mandated worldwide and need regular inspections and maintenance to promote safety. As…
Vacation-Proof Your Home
When planning a vacation, you are almost always considering what clothes to pack or booking a place to stay. But while you are away, you need to make sure that your home will be safe from burglars or thieves who may target an empty home. Before you pack up and leave for your vacation, there…
What Causes False Alarms on Home Security Systems
False alarms on home security systems are not only an annoyance for homeowners, but they take up the valuable time and resources of our local law enforcement officials. In fact, many cities and towns now charge homeowners a fee for false alarms. In order to save you the frustration and potential financial hit, let’s look…
How Often Should You Check Your Smoke Detectors?
Fire Alarm Testing Whether your fire alarm is protecting your home or a commercial facility, regular testing of your fire alarm system is critical to ensure it is working correctly. This test guarantees that everyone occupying the home or office understands what to do when the fire alarm sounds, gives you a chance to check…
Fire Systems for Commercial Properties
Commercial property management companies have portfolios varying in scale and specialty. Still, they all share the standard responsibility of understanding and implementing fire safety measures for their operations. Fires pose a significant but avoidable threat to your properties, occupants, and sources of revenue. While not all fires can be prevented, some can cause catastrophic damage…
What Are Fire Alarm System Zones?
Fire alarm zones are standard in conventional fire panels. Each zone represents a different area in the building to help firefighters and professionals pinpoint the source of an alarm. However, it can be confusing to research fire alarm zones because they are not as common as they once were. Conventional and addressable systems handle communication for fire…
The Ins and Outs of Installing a Security System as a Landlord
Buying a home is one of the most significant investments a person can make. You upgrade your home in many ways—a fresh coat of paint, a landscaping project, or possibly adding a security system. If you go a step further and invest in rental properties, you have to do all those things and more to…
How to Maintain a Commercial Security System
Updated May 2023 With the latest advances in security technology, it’s becoming easier for small businesses to find a security system that works for their needs. Whether your business just installed your commercial security system or has been utilizing security measures for some time, proper maintenance will increase the life of your system and provide…