Security alarm systems are highly customizable. They include a variety of options available to expand into suit any space you would like monitored. An alarm system is an effective way to deter up to 53% of burglars targeting your business. If an unauthorised entry occurs or if there are changes in the environment such as temperature, movement, or fire the system let you know by activating a siren or sending an alert to a monitoring centre.
Every organisation is different, the best way to ensure that an alarm system meets your needs is to work with an experienced security expert such as Rechenberg.
The following list contains common devices that can comprise an alarm system and how they work.
KEYPADS & INTERFACES
Keypads are the interface for your alarm system and are typically situated at an entry/ exit point within the premises. The keypad is used to arm and disarm the system, indicate “away” or “stay” status and for a technician to make changes to your system, The functionality of your keypad will depend on the model you have installed as they can range from simple alphanumeric LED screens to modern touchscreens. From the display screen, you will be able to see an overview of your system and its current status. Our experienced technician can program custom pin codes for different areas of your business or assign unique pin codes to each employee. The system can then log which code is used to arm or disarm the system at what times.
Mobile phone apps are available for some brands such as Bosch. The smartphone APP allows the user to remotely arm or disarm their alarm panel, and see the status of the sensors or panel alert history. Apps like these offer a convenient way to check on your alarm system for your peace of mind or can be used as a panic button to remotely set off your alarm.
SENSORS
Sensors detect changes to your business environment that may indicate threats or undesirable conditions. The most common types of sensors are motion detectors, magnetic contact switches also known as magnetic reed switches, and glass break detectors.
Reed switches are perfect for detecting the opening of potential entrances such as doors and windows. Usually, a sturdy lock or latch is used to keep a window closed, but reed switches add an extra layer of security. They work via a magnet mounted on the door or window that pulls together two magnetic blades inside their counterpart on the frame. When the door opens, the blades are pulled away from the magnet and lose contact with each other, setting off the alarm.
Motion detection devices have two main varieties: PIR and Active Ultrasonic. PIR sensors use passive infrared to detect changes in heat levels in the environment. Active ultrasonic sensors use ultrasonic waves that bounce off objects before returning to the sensor to detect movement or new objects. For more on these sensors check out our blog article: How do motion sensors work?
Other sensors can include temperature sensors that report when the measured temperature exceeds a certain range. These are useful for pharmaceutical fridges, frozen/cold store rooms, server rooms, and automation systems that turn on the central heating or air conditioning in the office.
SIRENS
Sirens act as the voice of your system. If the sensors detect a possible threat, the siren will then activate strobing lights and produce an audible 100 decibel sound to alert any nearby staff or bystanders that unauthorised activity is taking place on the property. Commonly found outside the premises
In addition to a siren, Piezos can be installed to emit a high-frequency oscillating siren intolerable to the human ear up to 120 decibels. This sound is unpleasant for intruders working to reduce the time an intruder wants to spend in your business. Piezos can be installed flush to the ceiling to keep them hidden from intruders wanting to silence them.
Panel Enclosure
The control panel is the brain of your system, it is usually located in the far corner of your building. The enclosure contains the control panel, backup battery, and a wireless cellular communicator.
The control panel is a small board through which all the system components are connected through wire or wirelessly via a receiver. Some commercial sites may span a wider area and require panel expanders if the system has a large number of devices.
Alarm panel backup batteries are a crucial part of your system, they allow your security to remain active in the event of a power failure. The amount of time the backup battery can keep the system active will depend on its current charge level and the number/type of devices pulling power.
A wireless cellular communicator should be installed on your system to allow communication with other devices. Alerts can be sent to a professional monitoring company such as Rechenberg.
MONITORING
If an alarm is triggered on your premises, a cellular communicator can send an event to a monitoring centre such as the Rechenberg grade-A monitoring centre. The operator will then verify the alert and contact the registered account holders, emergency services or follow instructions outlined by the business so no alarm is ever left unattended. Professional monitoring is a recommended service for all security systems. A system without monitoring will trigger local sirens but ultimately result in your business being left at risk if it is unattended.
Rechenberg can set up monitoring for your alarm system. For more information on Rechenberg monitoring please visit our monitoring page or call us on 1300 852 138.
SIGNAGE
A well-placed sign or sticker warns potential intruders that your building is alarmed and is more trouble than its worth. One study suggests that they can deter around 25% of burglars. Signage can be added to external areas of the business to warn everyone that this site has professional monitoring. When signing up for Rechenberg monitoring ask our friendly team for some free stickers to place in well-lit, visible locations such as a fence or front window.
INTEGRATION WITH OTHER SECURITY SYSTEMS.
Alarm systems can be integrated with CCTV and access control systems to enhance your security further. Professionally installed Alarm systems can integrate with access control such as swipe cards or FOB proximity detectors to enable disarming the system with a single swipe.
NEXT STEPS:
If you are considering installing or upgrading your alarm system, we recommend contacting the Rechenberg sales team to discuss what options will work best for your premises. Contact Rechenberg today at 1300 852 138 or email sales@rechenberg.com.au.