How Wired Alarms Work
In hardwired alarm systems all
components - such as window/door sensors, motion detectors and keypads - are
connected directly to the master control panel via cables. They are the most
reliable type of security systems and are generally maintenance free. It is best
to pre-wire a home during construction, while the walls are open. If this can not
be done, drilling from each window/door location up to the attic or down to the
basement will have to be done.
Hardwired alarm systems rely on
simple switching circuits to operate, so they are easy to understand. They do
not need complex radio electronics, so they are less expensive than wireless.
They run from one main power supply, so they do not need several batteries
periodically changed.
Alarms run on 12 Volts DC
so there is no risk of electrical shock, but it is important to check wire
polarity and connections before applying power. All systems come with wiring
diagrams, you should know how to read them and practice basic wiring techniques
like parallel and series connections.
Several window/door sensors can be connected to an alarm panel input (called a
zone), but there are advantages to having several zones covering different parts
of the house. First and most obviously, you can tell what part of the house the
sensor is in if the alarm is triggered. This narrows down the search for signs
of an intruder or an open window.