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
Fire Systems for the Restaurant Industry
Companies in varying industries face fire hazards in their standard operations to a certain degree. Businesses that operate commercial kitchens, however, are at significant risk for fire-related hazards because cooking equipment is a leading cause of commercial fires. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, an estimated 50% of non-residential fires were caused by cooking in…
Tips to Prevent Your Security System from Being Hacked
The Risky Business of Ring’s Vulnerable Security and other DIY security systems can leave your home as a potential target for hackers or thieves. When you are investing in a security system, you are hoping for peace of mind, and you are trusting this technology with your safety and property. Have I Been Hacked? A hacker may…
Home Insurance Discounts and Security Systems
Home invasions or burglaries are a threat to any household, regardless of where they are located. One of the biggest deterrents for burglars is a home security system that could record evidence of their actions or could notify the authorities at the time of a break-in. This is a huge motivator for homeowners when deciding…
5 Common Causes of Commercial Fires
Many business owners and employees think their chances of dealing with a fire in the workplace are improbable, but the numbers tell a different story. According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), an estimated 116,500 commercial fires were reported nationally in 2021. These fires contributed to 115 deaths, 1,025 injuries, and over $3.6 billion in…
ADT Home Security Settlement
ADT home security is facing a class-action lawsuit. The plaintiffs allege that ADT failed to disclose wireless sensors’ vulnerability to evasion and jamming. Why should you care? Although this settlement is for ADT, this is a vulnerability all wireless security systems face. Let’s talk about wireless technology for a second. All home Wi-Fi networks are…
Big Name Home Security Gimmicks
We talk about choosing between a national home security company and a local company, DIY Security systems’ weaknesses, and video doorbells. Choosing a security system can be stressful and overwhelming, especially when you and your family’s security is at stake. So how do you choose a home security system? Do Your Homework It’s critical to do…
Ring Doorbell Cons
Video doorbells are a great addition to home security, and Ring is the popular choice for many who prefer wireless security. Although there are some pros to the Ring Doorbell, it has some cons you should be aware of before purchasing from Ring. Monthly Fee for Storage The cheapest Ring doorbell is $59.99, with the…
Monitored vs. Unmonitored Security Systems
If you’re thinking about installing a security system, you may be wondering if monitoring is a necessary feature. While an unmonitored system is better than nothing at all, there are some critical things you should consider before making a decision. The Benefits of Monitoring The noise and commotion caused by the sirens and lights associated…
Smart Home Security & How to Implement
Home Security Paired with Home Automation Security vs. home automation is the friendliest rivalry around. Why? Because they play so well together. Security systems used to have a singular focus—keeping unwanted people out of a house. But as technology evolves, security equipment placement throughout the home for protection performs a dual purpose: Helping homeowners with…
Fire Systems for the Manufacturing Industry
Few industries face as many fire safety concerns as manufacturing does, and the consequences of poor fire safety can be catastrophic. From 2017 to 2021, roughly 36,784 fires occurred yearly at industrial or manufacturing properties, causing $1.5 billion in direct property damage. With materials prone to combust or explode, industrial businesses must take extra care…