Types of security alarms. Security alarm systems

Protecting property is a top priority for property owners. To implement security, a lot of devices and systems have been proposed on the market that prevent uninvited guests from entering the facility, which will notify the owner and relevant services of the incident in case of any hacking attempt. The greatest demand among buyers are security alarm systems of a mechanical and electronic type.

Mechanical devices significantly complicate the task of intruders, but do not provide 100% of the protected object from hacking. The best solution in terms of reliability is electronic alarm systems, characterized by high functionality.

This article will be a complete answer to the question “What type of security alarm to choose?”, We will learn the principles of operation and the differences between popular security systems.

Purpose of alarm systems

Any electronic alarm is installed on the property in order to protect it from unauthorized entry. If you try to hack, such a device will warn the owners and the security service about the danger.

The maximum level of protection against burglary can only be ensured by choosing the right security alarm in accordance with the requirements of a particular facility. Modern manufacturers offer customers autonomous or active alarms. Autonomous devices frighten off intruders, starting to give out a sound signal and light when they try to enter the object. Active alarms are more expensive, but they do their job more efficiently, since the alarm signal is transmitted simultaneously to the security console, as well as to the mobile device of the property owners.

Popular types and principle of operation of security alarms

Security companies offer customers to use a specific type of alarm system, depending on the security requirements of a particular premises.

Autonomous

The security system implies the installation of a sensor on the object, which reacts to the following actions:

1. Movement near the protected object.
2. Opening the door.
3. Window damage.

The sensors are connected to the central control panel, with the help of which the user can set the alarm triggering parameters himself. Sound sirens and light-emitting devices are connected to the device to notify property owners of a burglary attempt.

If one of the sensors is triggered, the central panel of the system instantly turns on the siren. You can start or deactivate the alarm only through the code panel or using a special key fob that comes with the device.

The disadvantage of such a system is that when the alarm is triggered, the owner will not receive a notification about the entry into his home.

GSM systems

GSM-alarm system is an innovative development in the field of real estate security, providing maximum protection against burglary. In addition to standard touch sensors that respond to movement, opening doors and windows, the system is equipped with a GSM module that connects to the central alarm unit.

If one of the sensors is triggered, the system equipped with a GSM module turns on an audible siren, light indicators, and also transmits an alarm signal to the owner’s phone number, which must be linked to the alarm at the installation stage.

Alarms connected to the telephone line

The principle of operation of these systems is similar to the features of the functioning of other systems. The only difference here will be the way the alarm is transmitted to the owner - a simple telephone line serves for this. When threats are detected in one of the protected zones, an audio signal is transmitted to all telephone numbers associated with the device.

Alarm with the ability to connect to the security console

Alarm systems that are linked to the central departmental security console are in the greatest demand among customers and are considered the most effective way of protection. The package of these systems includes an electronic unit that integrates the sound signal to the control panel of the security company. The channel through which the notification is transmitted can be any of the following:

• telephone lines;
• radio frequency communication;
• GSM channels.

To increase the likelihood of timely transmission of an alarm to a security company, experts suggest using several means of transmitting an audio signal at once.

What criteria to consider when choosing?

Before buying an alarm, most customers are reasonably interested in the question of what to consider when choosing a security system. There are several criteria that determine the reliability and effectiveness of these devices:

1. The alarm type is autonomous or active.
2. How the sensors are connected (wired or RF).
3. The sensitivity of the sensors, which is especially important if there are pets in the house, the movement of which will give a false alarm.
4. The number and type of security lines (the area of ​​the territory on which the alarm sensor operates).
5. The possibility of alarm operation in the absence of electricity.

Important! If in the future it is planned to expand the security boundaries, you should choose equipment that implies the possibility of installing additional sensors, modules and actuators.

Conclusion

Thanks to a wide selection of alarms and security systems on the market, which differ in functionality, operation principle and price category, each buyer will be able to find the best solution for himself, taking into account the set technical tasks and the available budget. When choosing an alarm, it is important to pay attention to the options and characteristics of the device, and not to the cost of the device. Savings in the issue of ensuring the protection of the object is inappropriate, given that the alarm system will protect property, which costs much more than the cost of the device itself. The quality of protection is the first and main criterion when choosing an alarm of any type.

On the video: Types of security alarms for the house.

Any security alarm system serves as an excellent protection against illegal entry of intruders into the premises, whether it is a company office, warehouse or private property.

To date, security alarm systems are able to provide maximum protection to each object. Only over time, like any other technology, burglar alarms become obsolete and therefore, it is very important to follow the latest in order to select the most appropriate model for protecting your premises. Developers of security systems have a large assortment of high-quality and modern goods. Each system has different characteristics and has its own advantages that distinguish it from the other. The best solution would be to consult with a specialist who will select the security system individually.

But consider what types of security systems exist. First of all, they are divided into two types - autonomous and "console". An autonomous burglar alarm, when triggered, activates alert signals, which include flashes or sound signals (siren). The second type of alarm has a connection to the centralized monitoring console and, when the system is triggered by the control panel of the security company, the corresponding signal is received. The premises are protected by specialized detectors. Several types of sensors turned out to be the most popular: volumetric, vibration, magnetic contact, sensors with a directional detection pattern, acoustic and capacitive sensors.

Volumetric sensors contribute to indoor protection. They can track any movement in the premises. Some of them had the disadvantage that they reacted to animals, but now the sensors have been improved and models have appeared that do not react to pets. Became very popular in use for security systems of apartments, cottages and country houses. Vibration sensors react to blows to the walls of the protected object and warn of such actions, thus insuring the premises from breaks.

Magnetic contact sensors monitor the opening of windows and doors. They are very common and familiar to many. Their design consists of two parts, one of which is attached to the frame or door frame, and the other to the window or door. Sensors with a directional detection pattern are an infrared sensor in which a certain type of lens is installed. The principle of operation of such sensors is that they control thermal radiation. These sensors are divided into three more types - "corridor", "curtain" and "curtain". Their advantages are high efficiency and ease of installation.

Acoustic sensors are equipped with window openings. They have a built-in microphone that is sensitive to broken glass. Currently, these sensors have undergone a number of changes and are now equipped with a microprocessor that contains in its memory various sounds similar to the sound of breaking glass and due to this it is able to identify external sounds, thereby reducing the likelihood of a false alarm of the security system.

Capacitive sensors are one or two metal electrodes that are isolated and fixed along the perimeter on the fence. The fence grate is connected to a common circuit, and an electronic unit is connected to it. When someone approaches the electrodes, the capacitance of the system immediately changes and an alarm signal is sent to the main panel of the burglar alarm. These are universal sensors that are not sensitive to the fence line or uneven terrain and, in addition to protecting the perimeter, they are used to control especially valuable property (for example, they are installed on vaults and safes). But, nevertheless, they have their drawback. Capacitive sensors are quite large and difficult to adjust.

Since a modern security alarm system is a whole complex of sensors, special additional equipment is also connected to them, which makes the system more perfect. For example, now the security system is equipped with such service sensors that report water leakage or domestic gas leakage. A special GSM format module allows you to send pre-recorded SMS messages to numbers specified by the system. There is also a voice telephone dialer unit, which, when an alarm is triggered, transmits a voice message over a telephone line to pre-recorded numbers.

All of the above sensors have in common that they are connected to a common control panel, which serves as the "brain" of the entire security system. The panel is used to arm and disarm. Previously, the sensors were connected using wires, but since the uninterrupted power supply of each section is very important in the alarm system, recently wireless sensors have been increasingly used, which are connected to a common panel by installing a radio channel.

The issue of real estate security has been relevant at all times. Currently, in order to protect your apartment or office, it is enough to install a burglar alarm. You just have to determine what type of object protection to use - autonomous, individual or remote.

The most popular type of security for an apartment and a summer residence is the installation of a remote alarm

Autonomous alarm

This type of security alarm has become very widespread due to its availability and ease of installation. It is enough to purchase a ready-made kit (for example, in an online store) and place the sensors in the protected premises. At the same time, the alarm signal is not transmitted anywhere, and the system works locally, attracting the attention of security guards or people nearby with the help of sound (siren) and light annunciators.

This also includes objects with round-the-clock operation - shops, hotels, restaurants or business centers. As a rule, a burglar alarm is installed on them with a signal output only to the guard post, which can be located in the same building or room. This type of signaling is typical for medium and large objects.

The advantages of this type of alarm include:

• Low cost
• No subscription fee for transmitting a signal to the control panel of a security company and leaving a detention group

The main disadvantage of an autonomous alarm system is that only you are liable for damage to property. And if something does not work, there will be no one to blame.

Individual alarm

It is a continuation of the stand-alone system and allows you to notify you of intrusion into a protected facility. Depending on the capabilities of the equipment, it can send SMS and MMS messages, make calls to the phone, take a photo and video of alarm confirmation and send it to you by e-mail. This type of alarm is typical for small companies, apartments, cottages or even a garage.

Most of these systems are equipped with a GSM module and come with wireless security sensors. They should only be installed in heated rooms. At negative temperatures, the burglar alarm may malfunction or even fail.

The advantages of this type of alarm include:

• average cost
• Possibility of self-installation
• Possibility of flexible system configuration, for example, to set up remote control of electrical appliances
• Except you, no one else has access to the security system
• No fixed telephone network required
• In the event of an alarm, the alarm will notify you

The disadvantages include:

• Material risks, as for autonomous signaling
• False alarms - the owner, who received an SMS about the penetration into his dacha, runs the risk of discovering that the reason for this was not a closed window, turning off the heating and 220v, or even small animals
• Attackers can jam the signal of a GSM transmitter or cut telephone wires

It is important to understand that if you are far from your property, it is always necessary to foresee the possibility and arrange with neighbors or owners of premises (located nearby) so that they can inspect it for burglary.

The most popular type of alarm today. In our country, a very large number of a wide variety of objects are protected, including: social institutions, business centers, offices, shops, restaurants, banks, ATMs, pawnshops and jewelry stores. Remote alarms are more effective than stand-alone or even individual burglar alarms, because in the event of a break-in, the security firm will be held responsible, not the owner himself.

The advantages of the system include:

• The most reliable and effective type of alarm to date
• There is no need to understand the system, they will come to you, install and configure the equipment, and also teach you how to use it
• Prompt arrival of the detention group at the facility upon an "alarm" signal
• Modern technologies make it possible to determine not only the presence of penetration into the house, but also such dangerous things as fire, gas leakage or water leakage.
• As a rule, it provides for property insurance - a damaged door, broken walls
• The system is harder to deceive - because. redundant communication channels are used. Radio transmission is almost impossible to jam. For especially risky objects, when communication with the monitoring station is interrupted for more than 10 minutes, a detention group leaves for the object

The disadvantages include:

• The high cost of equipment and the need for its installation by qualified personnel
• Monthly subscription fee, which includes 24/7 monitoring and response in case of alarms
• In the event of a system malfunction - payment for false trips of the detention group. You can protect yourself from this if you conclude a contract for the maintenance of a security alarm
• It is not uncommon for a security firm to dishonestly fulfill its obligations to protect an object.

Console signaling Modern methods of protection offer many different options for security systems. From the most budgetary wired models that can only attract attention to wireless security systems that can notify the owner or security about a break-in. After carefully weighing all the pros and cons, you can choose the right burglar alarm for you.

To ensure a high level of security at real estate, special electronic systems are used. These include burglar and fire alarms.

In order not to install two independent alarms, which would require large financial costs, an integrated OPS system was developed, what it is and how it is used will be discussed below.

OPS is a fire and burglar alarm, which are combined in one multifunctional system.

The advantage of such complexes is that they have a single software and hardware module that controls the operation of all security and fire sensors, as well as external systems and devices that maintain security at the facility.

Modern security and fire alarms can be part of:

1. automatic fire extinguishing systems;
2. smoke protection;
3. integrated security systems;
4. access control systems.

The purpose of the OPS

In accordance with the GOST 26342-84 standard, the main task that a security and fire alarm system must solve is to receive alarm signals from sensors, process them, then transmit an alarm signal to the security and fire services consoles, and also provide users with information about an attempt to enter the premises or about fire.

Purpose of means of the security and fire and disturbing alarm system:

• support of the round-the-clock control of the territory of the protected object;
• detection of fires at the earliest stages;
• accurate determination of the place of penetration to the object or the beginning of a fire;
• providing security and fire services, as well as property owners with information about a burglary attempt or the start of a fire;
• management of warning devices, autonomous fire extinguishing, smoke removal, personnel evacuation;
• automatic self-diagnosis of security and fire sensors, as well as executive systems;
• support for full alarm functionality when powered by redundant power supplies.

OPS classification

Fire and security alarm systems have their own classification, which includes three categories.

address

This security and fire alarm system is designed to monitor large and medium-sized facilities, protecting them from robbery and fire.

Such alarms allow you to determine the exact location of the start of a fire or penetration.

This feature is associated with the ability of the sensors used to transmit to the central console, in addition to the alarm signal, also data on which of the sensors and in which loop worked.

Thanks to this, it is possible to accurately determine a dangerous place, which will allow timely liquidation of a fire or neutralize intruders.

Non-targeted

This type of security and fire alarm system is designed to protect small-scale objects.

Its difference from the previous system is that it allows you to determine only the number of the loop, the sensor of which transmitted an alarm signal. To determine the exact place where the danger is detected, this type of system does not allow.

Addressable analog

Fire and security alarms of this class are among the most highly efficient and reliable systems that continuously monitor the protected object by analyzing various telemetric information: air temperature, presence of smoke, strong mechanical vibrations, sound waves, etc.

The main difference from all previous OPS is that the decision to notify a hazard at the facility is made by the central processor based on the analysis of a set of indicators obtained from different sensors and sensors installed at the facility.

This type of security and fire alarm system is a complex electronic complex, which is distinguished by high accuracy in determining the places of danger and practically does not have false positives.

In addition, this type of alarm provides for the constant receipt of information from the sensors about the controlled parameter, so if a sensor breaks down, this can be instantly found out through a visual notification of the alarm control panel.

Standard set of OPS

A fire and security alarm of any of the listed types incorporates a certain set of devices that ensure its functionality.

The main ones include:

1. detectors (security and fire sensors);
2. reception and control console;
3. hazard warning devices and systems;
4. communication lines between sensors and the console, as well as between the console and sirens (can be radio channel, wired loop, GSM or GPRS);
5. backup power system (this can be a battery, a gasoline / diesel generator, thanks to which the alarm system functions continuously);
6. peripheral executive devices;
7. specialized software for signaling operation control.

The sensors that are equipped with a fire and security alarm system, depending on the technology for detecting penetration into an object or the presence of a fire, are divided into the following categories:

• ultrasonic;
• infrared (passive or active);
• magnetic contact;
• radio wave;
• vibration;
• acoustic;
• light;
• combined action.

Depending on the specific tasks for which security and fire systems are designed, they may also include other types of sensors that allow you to control the parameters of the environment.

These can be sensors that control air temperature and humidity, gas and water leakage, etc.

Their use will significantly expand the purpose of automatic fire alarms, providing them with functions that are typical for systems such as "smart home".

There are many types of sensors that are equipped with security systems.

Among those used by fire alarms, the following should be highlighted:

1. smoke - determine the presence of smoke in the room (depending on the sensor used, they can be photoelectric, ionization, differential, aspiration, optoelectronic, radioisotope);
2. temperature (thermal) - fix the temperature rise above the set threshold (they can be differential, absolute, linear thermal cable, multipoint);
3. flame sensors - determine the presence of open flames (the fire alarm system can have ultraviolet, infrared, optoelectronic and multi-range);
4. gas sensors - detect the presence of a certain concentration of gas in the air (they can be semiconductor, electrochemical, optoelectronic, thermal wave, thermometric);
5. multi-sensor sensors - this type of device can detect a fire by several parameters, the number of which is determined by the number of sensors in the sensor.

Standard functionality

Regardless of model and manufacturer, every fire and burglar alarm should provide a standard feature set that includes:

• detection of fires in the early stages;
• determination of the moment of penetration to the object;
• detection of gas or water leaks in the premises;
• determination of temperature increase above the norm, as well as the appearance of smoke;
• transmission of an alarm signal to the consoles of security and fire services;
• activation of warning and alarm systems;
• management of stationary smoke removal and fire extinguishing systems;
• management of the process of evacuation of people from the facility.

From what is presented above, we can conclude that even the basic functions that the fire alarm system has will effectively protect the object from fire and robbery.

Features of the design and installation of fire alarm systems

In order for the security and fire alarms to function effectively, it is important to correctly design it and subsequently perform the installation of all functional elements with high quality.

The main points to be considered when designing an OPS system include:

1. choice of structure and type of system used;
2. determination of the number of security and fire sensors of a certain type;
3. analysis of the need to place additional functional sensors and sensors at the facility;
4. selection of the type and characteristics of the communication line through which communication will be carried out between the central console, detectors and actuators;
5. selection of the receiving and control console, which should control the operation of the alarm and communicate with the fire and security service consoles (the console must be compatible with the consoles);
6. determination of the optimal sources of autonomous power supply, thanks to which the fire and security alarm system will function without interruption.

In the design process, it is also important to consider the possibility of expanding the alarm functionality in the future. In such a case, the alarm system can be easily upgraded by adding new sensors or warning devices without the need for significant reworking of an already functioning system.

Conclusion

A modern security and fire alarm system is exactly the security tool that will protect the facility from both “uninvited guests” and a possible fire.

Today, there are a large number of both ready-made kits and individual devices, with the help of which an optimal fire alarm system for a particular object can be built.

In order for the fire safety system being created to always function correctly and be able to help in case of trouble, you should entrust the installation of such systems to professional companies.

They will competently draw up a project, select the appropriate equipment and perform its installation and configuration. Subsequently, the client will have a multifunctional and fail-safe fire and security alarm.

Video: Fire and security alarm

Each car owner strives to protect his car from intruders as much as possible. The main countermeasure against theft today is a car alarm. Further in the article we will talk about how the car alarm works, what elements it consists of and what functions it performs.

Purpose and functions of the alarm

Car alarms cannot be called any specific device. It would be more correct to say that this is a complex of devices consisting of different sensors and control elements and representing a single system.

In Russia, there is an approved frequency for all alarms - 433.92 MHz. But many manufacturers on the market produce systems with different frequencies from 434.16 MHz to 1900 MHz (- range for mobile communications).

Anti-theft systems perform several main functions:

• warn of penetration into the car interior with sound and light signals;
• warn about an attempt of external influence and suspicious approach to the car in the parking lot (removal of wheels, evacuation, impact, etc.);
• notify the driver about the penetration and track the further location of the car (if this function is available).

Various anti-theft systems have their own equipment and functions - from basic to advanced. In simple systems, only the signaling function is often implemented (siren, headlight flashing). But modern security systems are usually not limited to this function.

The composition of a car alarm depends on its complexity and configuration, but in general it looks like this:

All anti-theft systems can be divided into two types: factory (standard) alarm and installed additionally.

The factory alarm is installed by the manufacturer and is already in the basic configuration of the car. As a rule, a regular system does not differ in a set of various functions and is limited only to a hacking warning.

Installed systems can implement a wide variety of additional functions. It depends on the model and cost.

The device and principle of operation of the alarm

All elements of any alarm system can be divided into three types:

• executive devices;
• reading devices (sensors);
• Control block.

Turning the alarm on and off (arming) is done using the remote control. In standard systems, alarm control is combined with central lock control and is performed in one device along with the ignition key. It also contains the immobilizer tag. However, these are completely different systems and operate independently of each other.

The radio receiver (antenna) receives a signal from the key fob. It can be static and dynamic. Static signals have a permanent encryption code, so they are susceptible to interception and hacking. At the moment, they are almost never used. With dynamic coding, the packets of transmitted data are constantly changing, creating high protection against interception. The principle of a random number generator is used.

The next development of dynamic is dialog coding. Communication between the remote control and the receiver is carried out via a two-way channel. In other words, the "friend or foe" function is implemented.

A variety of sensors are related to input devices. They analyze changes in various parameters (pressure, tilt, impact, light, movement, etc.) and send information to the control unit. In turn, the block includes actuators (siren, beacons, flashing headlights) into operation.

Diagram of car alarm components

shock sensor

This is a small sensor that picks up mechanical body vibrations and converts them into an electrical signal. The piezoelectric plate generates an electrical signal. Operation occurs at a certain level of oscillation. Sensors are installed along the perimeter of the car body. Shock sensors can often work falsely. The reason may be hail, strong sound vibrations (thunderstorm, wind), impact on tires. To solve the problem, adjusting the sensitivity can help.

tilt sensor

The sensor reacts to an unnatural inclination of the vehicle. For example, it could be lifting a car with a jack to remove the wheels. It will also work when the car is evacuated. The sensor does not respond to tilt from the wind, the position of the car on the ground, different tire pressures. This is provided by the sensitivity setting.

Motion Sensor

Such sensors are common in various areas (turning on the light when moving, perimeter security, etc.). When the alarm is on, the sensor reacts to extraneous movement in the cabin and next to the car. A dangerous approach or movement activates the siren. Ultrasonic sensors and volume sensors work on the same principle. All of them capture various changes in the volume of the car interior.

Door or hood opening sensor

Often, built-in door switches are used as sensors. If you open the door or hood, the circuit will close and the siren will turn on.

Additional alarm functions

In addition to the main security function, some useful additions can be implemented in car alarms. For example, such as:

• Remote engine start. The engine warm-up function is especially convenient in winter. You can start the engine at a distance and prepare it for the trip in time.
• Remote control windows. Automatic raising of the windows occurs when the vehicle is armed with an alarm. No need to remember if all the windows are closed.
• Protecting the car with the engine running. This function is useful when leaving the vehicle for a short time.
• Satellite tracking (GPS/GLONASS). Many anti-theft systems are equipped with active tracking systems using GPS or GLONASS satellite systems. This is an additional degree of protection for the car.
• Blocking the engine. Advanced versions of security systems can be equipped with a remote engine stop system. Additional vehicle security against theft.
• Manage alarms and other functions from your smartphone. Modern systems allow you to control all functions from your mobile phone. The availability of this option depends on the configuration and model of the alarm. Management takes place through a special application.

The difference between a car alarm and an immobilizer

Car alarms and have similar security features, but a few significant differences. These two concepts are often confused, so some clarity is needed.

A car alarm is a whole security complex that warns the owner about the theft or attempted entry into the car. There are also many other features such as satellite tracking, etc.

The immobilizer is also an effective anti-theft system, but its function is limited to blocking the engine start when trying to start the car with an unregistered key. The device reads the access code from the chip (tag) in the key and recognizes the owner. If the thief tries to start the car, it won't work. The engine will not start. As a rule, the immobilizer is regularly installed in all modern car models.

The immobilizer will not protect the car from breaking and entering in the parking lot. He . So they can't do it alone. You need a complete car alarm.

The main manufacturers of alarms

There are several companies on the market that have proven themselves well and their products are in demand.

• Star line. The company is one of the leaders in the production of security systems. It produces not only budget, but also fifth-generation models. The cost varies from 7,000 to 14,000 rubles.
• Pandora. A popular Russian manufacturer of security systems. Wide model range. Prices range from 5,000 to 48,000 for new advanced models.
• Scher-Khan. Manufacturer - South Korea, developer - Russia. The cost is in the range of 7-8 thousand rubles. Mobile phone and Bluetooth connection possible.
• Alligator. American security system. The cost is up to 11 thousand rubles. Diverse range.
• Sherriff. Manufacturer - Taiwan. Budget models are presented, the cost is 7-9 thousand rubles.
• Black Bug. Russian manufacturer. The lineup is represented by both budget and premium models.
• "Prizrak". Russian manufacturer of alarm systems with a wide range of models. Prices vary from 6,000 to 27,000 thousand rubles.

A car alarm helps protect your car from theft and burglary. Modern security systems provide a sufficiently high degree of protection. Also, the driver opens up many other useful features. An alarm system is a necessary and obligatory thing for every car.