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Firstly, do not worry about what detectors exist or how they work – that is my job! If I started describing features and detection patterns you would get rapidly bored!! 

Instead you need to consider two main topics. Firstly, when is the alarm going to detect an intruder and secondly, how is it going to inform you or others?

How to operate the system and different types of control equipment, if the system should be wired or wireless, types of detectors, etc can then be discussed once the first two questions have been answered. More information on these topics can be found in our FREE VIP Newsletter - use the form on the right to subscribe. For now, I am going to concentrate on an overview of the first two questions.

So, when is the alarm going to detect an intruder? Without going into vast detail, there are two general types of alarm system – Perimeter Protected and Internally Protected. 

Perimeter Protected Systems, as the name suggests, concentrate on protecting the perimeter of your property. Generally speaking, detection devices are fitted to doors and windows that activate the alarm. Some premises might even have external detectors that trigger the system if an intruder crosses the property's boundaries.  

As with all systems there are advantages and disadvantages. The advantages are obvious, an intruder is detected before they enter your property. This minimises the possibility of confrontation, damage or losses - as the vast majority of would-be crooks will run away at the point of detection.

On top of this, perimeter types of system can be used whilst you are still in the building. If you look at other countries such as the United States, these systems are very popular giving customers a sense of security whilst they move around their property freely. However, there is a small disadvantage. As the system is protecting every possible entry point, more detectors are used - therefore they do cost substantially more than internally protected systems.
 

Internally Protected Systems. Once again, the name says it all. These systems use various types of motion detectors that monitor movement within their area. This is the most common form of system fitted due to the fact that a single motion detector can cover a large area, possibly with multiple entry points.

Because of the large coverage area of detectors, fewer detectors are used – as a result the cost of the system is less. Once again, there are disadvantages. Pets can cause false alarms. There are pet immune detectors available - but even using the best models on the market, we have found that false activations Can still occur. Unlike perimeter systems, you cannot freely access all parts of your property if the system is in operation. And finally there is the debateable “Night Time Intruder” scenario. What happens if the alarm activates when you are at home in bed (residential systems)? The system is either saying that there is an intruder in the premises or it is malfunctioning – what do you do? There is still no real answer to this question. 

One other point to consider with internally protected systems is the issue of detectors being intentionally or accidentally masked (masking is when the detectors view of the protected area is obscured). We frequently see properties with furniture or stock blocking the devices view rendering them useless - plus crooks can use techniques to prevent motion detectors from activating. We highly recommend the fitment of motion detectors with anti-masking technology fitted. We primarily use detectors manufactured by Rokonet in such applications. To explain matters further Rokonet have produced a nice short film to demonstrate anti-masking technology - click here to view the film (you will need a movie player installed to view the film).

In both cases, you add deterrent value to your property. You can also have a combination of both types that might best suit your needs.  

Under the new European Standards for Alarm Systems (EN50131), a Risk Assessment should be carried out to identify the type of equipment to protect your premises. You should also consider speaking with your Insurance Company and local Crime Prevention Officer. If we can assist in any way, please use the contact form. And in all cases don’t forget, partly because of our heightened security awareness and the steps we take to protect our properties – the figures for burglaries are falling!  

So, we know what types of system are available – now we need to consider what will happen once an intruder has been detected. 

Two main options also exist for this question. “Bells Only” or Monitored?

A “Bells Only” system contains some form of siren either intended to alert neighbouring properties of the intruder with external bells and/or to make it physically unpleasant for the intruder to remain with high-powered internal sounders. The sight of a bell box will deter the majority of burglars, however it is unfortunate that these days, not many people pay much attention to them when they do ring.

Alternatively, you can consider a Monitored system. This uses various forms of communication devices (such as Digital Communicators or Redcare STU's) to notify a manned alarm receiving station. How they confirm activations is covered in our FREE VIP Newsletter - use the form on the right to subscribe.

FIRE! The majority of alarm systems can also have fire detectors linked to them. If you are considering investing in an Intruder Alarm, then seriously think about spending a small amount more to have the system protect your life as well as your property! I cannot emphasise enough the benefits of fire detection. 

As you can probably see, there is a lot to consider – and I have only just covered the basics without discussing equipment. If you would like free advice or even a site visit with no obligation to buy, please do contact me. We have demonstration equipment available that will allow you to try before you buy!

If you are interested to see the types and variety of systems we install, click on the links below:

	DSC Intruder Alarm Systems
	Europlex Intruder Alarm Systems Page Under Construction

If you would like to discuss this or any other issue, please email me using the contact page. I must point out that I can only accept a limited number of clients in any one financial year as service to existing customers takes priority, but in all cases I will do my best to assist!