Disaster and security alarms are not new to many people. These equipments are already available and are being continuously innovated.

These warning instruments are found usually in business firms. The reason for installing these devices is for safety of properties against disasters like fire and attempted burglary

Jewellery shops and Banks are examples where high security is needed. By using these alarms security is obtained. In fact, their insurance companies force them to have the complex and the most effective burglar alarm that the firm could have. For higher security the burglar alarm used must be more complex.

Burglar alarms which are installed in houses uses the alarm system’s principle. Alarms can make sound when condition is met with, due to electrical flow. For instance, for close circuit alarm, while the doors open, the flow of current activates the alarm in contrary to open circuit alarms which alarm when current is cut.

There are three main equipments in a burglar alarm. These are I) the control panel, ii) signalling device and iii) detectors. These are interconnected to work as needed. There are other systems which uses infrared, radio frequency etc such that it connects one part with another. Those systems which use radio receivers and transmitters are called the wireless systems.

Control Panel

It is the main processing unit of the system. That is where one can program the system such that it works according to the particular specifications of the building or home. You can reset, turn on or turn off the alarm system there. Control panel is accessed using keypad remotes. Specifications of control panel might differ depending on the design and prerogative of the manufacturer. Detector zones can also be programmed in control panel so that when the detector gets unusual frequencies, the brain accesses it and make the alarm sound. The control panel also has a memory chip which can store the user settings. It’ll be present in the product’s brochure or in the user’s manual.

Signalling Devices

These alarms make sounds whenever there is need. It may use a bell, a chime or a buzzer. The alarm that is used is loud enough such that it can cause panic. Now-a-days, sounders are partnered with strobe which is a special lighting device. This consists of a lamp that is mounted such that it rotates when the alarm sounds. Most common colours which are used for strobes are yellow, red and blue. Telephone relays or Speech diallers may also be part of this equipment.

Detectors

They are also known as sensors. These are used for reporting movements that are unusual to control panel. These are of several types. Some commonly used detectors are:

• Magnetic Contact Detectors – it is usually mounted in doors and windows. These are mounted at the edge of windows and doors.

• Infrared Detectors (passive) – these are used to detect unusual irregularities or motions in the place. These can detect smoke and temperature changes.

• Vibration sensors – these are more sensitive than magnetic contact detectors since a small vibration from door or window could be interpreted by it as unusual and trigger the control panel to alarm.