Just a head's up for you all do it yourself types looking for some free home security toys (hey, who wouldn't?). The X10.com website says they're having a drawing right now where you can enter to win "a complete home surveillance, security & automation super package" worth about $450. You'll want to take a peek at their official rules before entering (I noticed you automatically get added to their mailing list, but it says you can cancel whenver you want).
Thinking about installing motion detectors as part of a home security program? There are two basic kinds of motion detectors: active and passive. You can find active motion detectors in the grocery store (the kind that opens the door when you approach or rings a bell when you enter the 7-11). Active sensors usually work with radar, ultrasonic soundwaves, or photosensors that measure changes in an always-present beam of light.
Most home security alarm systems use passive motion detectors. These detect infrared energy. The best ones only go off when people approach (older motion detectors often had the problem of differentiating humans from dogs, cats, or even a blowing branch). Today's passive sensors (or PIR) are keyed to watch for human body temperature. "Humans, having a skin temperature of about 93 degrees F, radiate infrared energy with a wavelength between 9 and 10 micrometers. Therefore, the sensors are typically sensitive in the range of 8 to 12 micrometers" (How do motion sensing lights and burglar alarms work?).
Passive sensor motion detectors are actually fairly easy to install. It is as simple as buying an alarm system or an outdoor lighting system with motion detection, then following the instructions on the box. If you have questions, a sales rep can probably help you.
Some popular kits:
Wireless Alert System for Your Driveway
Driveway Patrol Sensor and Receiver Kit
Solar Motion Detector Home Light
More Resources:
How Infrared motion detector components work
Installing a Motion Detector
So, you want to install a new home security system, and you want to do it yourself. But where to start? The easist type of home alarm systems, installation-wise, are wireless alarms. Wired alarm security systems involve drilling up the walls, running cable through them, and other noisy, tedious chores that the spouse might not appreciate. Wireless systems usually just involve messing around in one wall (connecting the control panel to the power outlet--that's one cable you won't want to leave out for a would-be burglar to simply unplug).
With wireless systems, it can be as simple as buying a kit and hooking everything up. However, if you are considering a monitored home security system, or a system that calls/pages you when something is amiss (requires hook up to the telephone system), installation will be more complicated, even with wireless.
You'll want to make sure and read the alarm specs carefully before you buy to ensure the installation is something you can handle yourself. For more complicated residential alarm systems, you may need the help of a certified technician (the law in your area may even require it).
Here are some resources with more information on the topic:
Browse Wireless Security Products
Home Security
How to Install a Wireless Home Security System
How to Choose A Home Security Company
