Basic Components of a Security System

Shopping for a home security system? Before you talk to a salesman or alarm company, you should know the basic components and be familiar with the available options you can add on. Here are the basics:

• A control panel (hooked up to the telephone line if the system is to be monitored by a security company).
• A basic keypad for controlling the system, usually has one-touch fire/police/emergency services programmed in.
• Door & window sensors
• Decals for the windows and signs for the yard

Here are some of the other options available:

• Passive, infrared, photoelectric, or microwave motion detectors
• Panic buttons
• Glass-break detectors
• An external siren
• Smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
• Closed Circuit Television or PC-based video surveillance

Source: November/December 2004 issue of Smart HomeOwner (a more complete list of options is listed there)