I have noticed a small P1 on my keypad display, is this normal?
Your system is capable of covering multiple areas separately if required and is referred to as a partitioned system. This would be for instance, a detached garage or guesthouse which needs to be controlled independently of the main house by the same alarm panel. (This does require a special setup) The small P1 that you see will indicate which partition (area) the keypad you are looking at is currently set to control. In most cases, the alarm panel will only have the main partition and the P1 on your display is normal.
What is VoIP, And How Can It interfere With My Alarm System’s Monitoring Capabilities?
VOIP is an acronym for Voice Over Internet Protocol. It simply uses your broadband internet connection to place voice calls digitally over IP based networks. Generally, a consumer will pay a flat monthly fee for local and long distance calls, often for considerably less than a regular analog land line.
Speaking of sensors, how are the “glassbreak” kind operated?
“Acoustic” glassbreak sensors, usually mounted on ceilings or walls, work by “listening” for the sound of breaking glass in a window. “Shock” glassbreak detectors are mounted on the window and “feel” the shock of breaking glass. This kind of advanced wireless technology can provide shatter and shock protection for your windows, for often intruders are “sensed” and an alarm sounded while they are still outdoors. This is often enough to send a burglar running!
I’ve been hearing so much about “wireless” security devices. Are they easy to use & work well?
Yes on both counts! Technological breakthroughs have led to the development of wireless electronic security products, and their effectiveness has been proven time and again over the years in millions of installations.
What is a PIR?
A passive infrared motion detector (PIR) is an electronic security device that detects intruders by “sensing” motion or body heat in the area being protected. Most PIRs are designed to be used when your family is away from home or when no one will be passing through the area “covered” by the PIR.
I have a dog! Does that mean I can’t install a PIR?
Absolutely not. Recent innovations in security technology have resulted in the creation of “pet immune” motion detectors-allowing dog and cat lovers to enjoy the same level of protection they would receive with a standard PIR.
What does the keypad do?
You operate your security system by entering your security code at the keypad. Generally located at entry doors, keypads can arm and disarm with push-button ease, and literally put security at your family’s fingertips!
What are magnetic contacts?
Magnetic contacts are two-part devices used to safeguard windows and doors. One part of the contact is a switch installed in the window or door jam; the other contains a magnet and is placed in the window or door itself. Any noticeable shift in contact with the switch results in an alarm.
I am new to security systems, how do they work?
A security system starts with a control panel. Usually located in a closet or a basement, the control panel contains the “brains” of the security system, and essentially operates as a central computer.