Intruder Alarm
Components
Intruder Alarm Equipment come in many different types
to build up a security system, here is a brief explanation
of what some of the device's actually do.
Alarm Control Panel
- The control unit is the nerve centre of the alarm
and is usually situated in a cupboard, or under the
stairs for a domestic system. The control unit works
jointly from the mains supply and a rechargeable battery.
It processes signals from the various detectors and
sensors – and operates the sounders accordingly.
Whilst it normally incorporates a keypad to allow
you to set and unset the alarm, on most systems a
separate or remote keypad will be installed.
External sounder (Bell
box)
- The external sounder box (usually referred to as
a‘bell box’) will provide mechanical and
weather protection for the warning sounder located
inside the box. The bell box will be protected against
unauthorised tampering or attack. Noise pollution
legislation requires that external sounders do not
operate for more than 20 minutes.
- Fitted on the underside or inside the bell box,
a strobe light will give visual warning that the alarm
has activated, which is useful for identification
within a row of alarm box-bearing buildings.
Internal Sounder
- The internal sounder will provide a very loud audible
warning inside the premises. This is particularly
important when the outside warning device may be difficult
to hear.
Door / Window Contact
(Magnetic Reed Switch)
- These sensors are used where detecting the opening
of a window or door is required. A magnetic sensor
comes in two parts - a magnet and a contact. There
are two basic types – the FLUSH type, designed
to be unobtrusively sunk into a wooden door or window
frame, and the SURFACE type, intended for use where
sinking the sensor would be inappropriate, for example
metal and UPVC doors and windows.
PIR (Passive Infra Red
Sensor)
- Passive Infra-Red sensors detect movement of heat,
by looking at the room in Infra-red. The detector
lens splits the room up into 10+ areas and any movement
of heat between these areas will cause an activation.
Dual-Tech Detector
- This is two different technology detectors built
into the same unit, most common is PIR / Microwave
Detector.
Shock Sensors (vibration
sensor)
- Detects shocks or vibrations, and is used to detect
an attempted break in by forced entry.
Break Glass Detectors
- Detects the breaking of window or door glass
Beam Type Detectors
- Beam Detectors have separate transmitter and receiver
units, and movement is detected by something crossing
the beam created between the units.
Panic Button (PA)
- Deliberately operated by a push button and reset
via a key, this device is used to activate the alarm
at any time, whether the control unit is switched
on or off.
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