Protecting your home is important and a wired burglar alarm system offers a robust and effective solution. This guide explores wired burglar alarm systems, from components and installation to pros, cons, and smart home integration. We’ll also share insights from security experts for real-world strategies.
Table Of Contents:
- Components of a Wired Burglar Alarm System
- Installing a Wired Burglar Alarm System
- Pros and Cons of Wired Burglar Alarm Systems
- Integrating with Smart Home Technology
- Wired Burglar Alarm System Expert Insights
- Choosing the Right Wired Burglar Alarm System
- Conclusion
Components of a Wired Burglar Alarm System
don’t A wired security system has key parts working together for a network of protection. While traditional wired systems don’t have the convenience of wireless security systems, the physical wires ensure a stable connection to its many parts, making it a very reliable alarm system.
Control Panel
The alarm control panel is the system’s brain, receiving signals from the wired sensors. It communicates with the monitoring center. Many modern control panels support services like Alarm.com.
Sensors
Sensors act as your first line of defense. Wired sensors offer a direct connection, making them tamper-resistant. They’re also less prone to interference than wireless sensors.
- Door/Window Sensors: These detect when a door or window is opened, triggering an alert.
- Motion Sensors: These wired sensors detect movement in a set area, placed inside your property.
- Glass Break Detectors: These are activated by loud noises or breaking glass, providing another layer of security, even with closed windows. Glass break detectors provide additional safety for wired security systems.
Keypads
Alarm keypads let you arm or disarm the system with a code. You can interact locally, even with platforms like Total Connect 2.0. They’re often necessary to pass inspections. For example, a Konnected Alarm Panel Conversion Kit retains the original keypads after an upgrade.
Siren
The siren makes a loud noise to scare off intruders and alert neighbors when an alarm is triggered. A loud siren enhances the deterrent effect of hardwired security systems. This feature of security systems can be crucial in deterring intruders.
Installing a Wired Burglar Alarm System
While DIY is possible for simple systems, professional installation provides reliability and ensures proper function. This is especially important for large properties or complex setups.
Professional installation ensures legal compliance and offers peace of mind. Look for similar options in your region if a DIY alarm setup feels daunting.
Pros and Cons of Wired Burglar Alarm Systems
A wired burglar alarm system has several advantages over wireless systems, along with a few drawbacks to consider before deciding.
Advantages
- Reliability: Hardwired security systems are less susceptible to interference. Their wired connections make them highly reliable.
- Tamper-Resistant: Wired alarm systems are difficult for intruders to disable, enhancing their effectiveness. This hardwired security approach strengthens overall safety.
- No Battery Changes: Drawing power from the building, hardwired security systems eliminate the need for battery replacements. This avoids potential disruptions from low batteries.
Disadvantages
- Installation: Installing wired security can be time-consuming in existing homes. Consider pre-wiring during new construction or renovations.
- Flexibility: Hardwired systems are less adaptable for moving existing wired sensors. Adding new wired sensors to the existing wired security setup can be complex.
Integrating with Smart Home Technology
Traditionally standalone, wired systems can integrate with smart homes. Hardware like the Konnected Alarm Panel Conversion Kit can modernize older systems. Consider this as a way of upgrading your existing wired system for enhanced home security.
This integration will allow you to control your alarm control panel with smart devices. Also, consider using wall-mounted tablets as dashboards for easier management.
Wired Burglar Alarm System Expert Insights
Gene Petrino, a retired SWAT commander and law enforcement expert, explains burglars often avoid homes with security signs. Wired alarms show a serious security posture, deterring potential threats.
Adding video cameras connected to a DVR system or cloud storage can bolster this and provide video surveillance that can be reviewed later. Having an existing wired infrastructure may streamline this integration.
Choosing the Right Wired Burglar Alarm System
The best system depends on individual needs. Explore different wired security systems options and choose a wired alarm control panel based on the specifics of your security needs. Choosing wisely is key for an effective setup.
Size and Layout of Property
Larger homes require more zones for windows, doors, and main areas. Group similar areas like downstairs windows into a single zone, instead of one per window. Strategic placement of wired sensors optimizes your hardwired security system.
Budget and Features
Systems range from basic to advanced, with features like professional monitoring from ADT. DIY systems with local monitoring like Lorex offer cost-effective alternatives. A wide range of wired security systems is available to accommodate almost any budget. Explore options like door alarms, motion detectors, window sensors, garage door security, and video doorbell features.
Consider alarm monitoring services for added security. This includes traditional wired monitoring services as well as more modern options such as cloud storage and cellular security. These monitoring wired options, available across several brands, often have associated monthly fees for access.
Conclusion
A wired burglar alarm system provides reliable security. Consider the pros and cons before choosing a system, especially regarding existing door and window sensors or if your cameras are connected to DVR systems.
Some wireless security options can have limitations depending on their reliance on wireless signals so a traditional wired system may still be the security option some prefer for this reason alone. If it is the newer variety, there are wireless alarm options, and you may even be able to connect wired sensors to the system or have one that supports the best of both.
